subject: Eating Cheaply in Chicago IS Possible -- If You Know Where to Look. Here are 3 Delicious Choices [print this page] It's easy to find great food in Chicago todayIt's easy to find great food in Chicago today. You can't swing a dead cat on most main thoroughfares without hitting at least 2 or 3 restaurants that have stars by their names in the newspapers, magazines and guide books.
It is a little harder to find great food for a reasonable price. You can drop a Ben Franklin in many of these restaurants for lunch. Without wine.
But, even though it is difficult, it isn't impossible.
Here are 3 choices for great food at reasonable prices in Chicago.
Amarinds
This wonderful Thai spot is a great place to start. And stay.
Order the honey-drizzled crab rolls and the "decorative pancake" as soon as you sit down. You won't regret it and it will give you time to choose from all the Northern Thai specialties on the menu.
Try the ground chicken in Chiang Mai Larb (but what out for the spicy heat!) or the pad kee mao with wide noodles and veggies coated in a tamarind/chili sauce.
Wine and beer are available if you choose.
Amarinds - 6822 W. North
Chickpea
The Palestinian cuisine is this little hot spot will win over anyone. Even the skeptic in your crew who thinks they don't like Middle Eastern food.
The kibbeh appetizer with yogurt cucumber salad is a great way to start. Then try the tabouleh, my favorite baba ghannouj and the huge fafafel plate. Don't miss the hummus topped with grilled beef tenderloin and pine nuts and the sumac-spiced roast chicken (available on Saturdays.)
End with a piece of traditional baklava.
No alcohol available or allowed. Cash only.
Chickpea - 2018 W. Chicago
Maiz
The specialty here is Mexican street food. The taste is authentic and so is the price -- cheap.
The corn mesa is made on-site for picaditas, huaraches, tlacoyos, corundas and more. Tacos and enchiladas are available for the less adventurous as well as a wide variety of salsas and fillings.
Finish with goat's milk crepes with walnuts.
Beer and cocktails are served. It's cash only.
Maiz - 1041 N. California
Eating Cheaply in Chicago IS Possible -- If You Know Where to Look. Here are 3 Delicious Choices
