Chicago/Near West Side

[[file:Chicago Cook County Hospital banner.jpg|1280px|Halal Travel to Near West Side}} Lake L - The L rumbling down Lake Street

The Near West Side of Chicago has two of the city's premiere culinary strips, Little Italy and Greektown, and basketball legend Michael Jordan's old stomping grounds with the Chicago Bulls.

Chicago/Near West Side Halal Travel Guide

Many of Chicago's most beloved cultural monuments were created on the Near West Side. The Chicago-style Hot Dogs and the deep dish Pizzas and the immigrant port of entry and the blues and the Blues Brothers and the labor movement, "Cheat You Fair," Jane Addams and the modern concept of social justice — all were born or have roots here. You wouldn't know it from the place today, though, which is dominated the charmless campus of the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC); outside of those areas, seen from the L tracks, stray pieces of the old neighborhoods sit like the last few teeth in the mouth of a punch-drunk prizefighter.

Popular Greektown - Greektown is quite the popular hang-out

Close to the rail yards and factory jobs, this was Chicago's major port of entry throughout the 1800s and early 1900s. Central to everything was the Maxwell Street Market, which was founded by Yahudi immigrants and joined by African-Americans during the Chicago#African-American history|Great Migration. Maxwell Street evolved from an open-air market of stalls and pushcarts to become the place where people from everywhere brought discount everything in the quest to make a fortune — and, as the saying went, Cheat You Fair. The deals and the scams and the good quality food and the street performances by future blues legends created a signature Chicago atmosphere for more than 120 years.

However and the desire of Chicago's business community to have a buffer zone between the Chicago/Loop|Loop and the West Side housing projects led to severe changes: first and the new Eisenhower Expressway cut off a slice of the east side, and then the construction of UIC destroyed the homes of more than 5,000 people. The years since have seen the university continue its path of wanton destruction, enabled by the city in every urge. In 1994 and they finally managed to raze the market, which was relocated a few blocks east in reduced form, leaving behind something called "University Village", which is rather like Chicago/Hyde Park|Hyde Park re-cast by pod people.

Attractions continue to leave the Near West Side; the Chicago Bulls play on without Michael Jordan at the United Center, and Oprah Winfrey has left her residency at Harpo Studios. But the small restaurant strips of Little Italy on Taylor Street and Greektown on Halsted Street have good food and tourist-friendly charm, and the West Loop (sometimes known as the Warehouse District) features the city's most expensive restaurants, a thriving gallery scene, and several hot clubs-of-the-moment.

How to travel to Chicago/Near West Side

Near West Side map - 600px

Travel by train to Chicago/Near West Side

There are several train stations on the Near West Side, but they're not very well-placed for destinations other than UIC. Buses are a more direct alternative from most of the city, including the Chicago/Loop|Loop.

The Forest Park branch of the CTA Blue Line has stops near Maxwell Street, Little Italy and Greektown (UIC-Halsted, Racine), UIC (Illinois Medical District) and the Tri-Taylor area (Western). The CTA Green Line and Pink Line have stops within a hike of the West Loop (Clinton/Lake, Morgan) and the United Center (Ashland/Lake), while the Pink Line branches off to the center of UIC and near the edge of Little Italy (Polk).

The city's two regional train hubs, Union Station and Ogilvie/Northwestern Station, are right on the edge of the West Loop. They're generally used by travelers going east over the river to the Loop, but there's no reason you can't walk west instead. See the Chicago/Loop|Loop

Travel Guide for arrival and departure information.

Travel on a Bus in Chicago/Near West Side

The CTA runs several bus routes through the West Side:

8 Halsted can be caught as far north as Chicago/Lakeview-North Center|Lakeview. It runs through Greektown and hits the old Maxwell Street.
9 Ashland also runs from far north and on to the south, passing within walking distance of Little Italy and the United Center. It's an all-night route.
12 Roosevelt runs from the Chicago/Near South|Near South to walking distance of Little Italy (exit Halsted, walk south) and Greektown (exit Halsted, walk north).
19 United Center Express runs on game nights for the Bulls and Blackhawks from Michigan & Chicago in the Chicago/Near North|Near North to Madison in the Chicago/Loop|Loop, and express to the UC once it's west of the river. Service starts 90 minutes prior to game time and ends 15 minutes prior to game time, and buses will be waiting to travel the route in reverse after the game.
20 Madison runs all night from the Chicago/Loop|Loop, passing through Greektown and by the United Center.
38 Ogden/Taylor reaches UIC, Maxwell Street, and Little Italy. It will soon become the 157 Streeterville/Taylor, extending into the Chicago/Near North|Near North.
50 Damen runs from Chicago/Wicker Park|Ukrainian Village and passes by the United Center.

By car

For Greektown, exit I-90/94 east at Adams, or west at Monroe. From the Eisenhower Expressway, exit at Racine, and turn left. Halsted & Adams is three blocks north and six blocks east. If driving in the area in the evening, avoid the blocks around United Center at all costs, as the event traffic is horrendous.

What to see in Chicago/Near West Side

The Haymarket Affair(s) | For years before and after and the Haymarket Plaza at Randolph Street and Desplaines Street was a bustling market, but on May 4, 1886, police marched on a labor rally, and someone threw a bomb from the crowd, killing seven police officers; for lack of a suspect and the organizer and speakers at the rally were arrested and charged with murder, and four were executed. The case became a seminal moment for the labor movement and free speech in the United States, giving cause to the May Day labor holiday. A statue of a policeman was erected in the square in 1889, but it became a target for anger over the trial, and was moved for safe-keeping after a streetcar rammed into it. By the 1960s and the market was gone, so the statue was returned — bringing the Chicago Police and the Weather Underground together in a tradition of blowing the thing up, repairing it, and blowing it up again. Eventually, it was moved for good. A carefully-worded bronze plaque was installed by the city in 1992, and an abstract sculpture has been in the square since 2004. For a more meaningful memorial, take I-290 west to Des Plaines Avenue in the nearby suburb of Forest Park and Waldheim Cemetery.

The ubiquitous University of Illinois at Chicago campus will be the most obvious thing you see, with the overtowering monolith that is University Hall casting an ungainly shadow across the West Side. Many of the original constructions, including elevated walkways, have long since been demolished. However, much of the Brutalist architecture remains. The Behavioral Sciences Building and Arts and Architecture Building, best known for having stairways that lead to a wall, are shining examples of unfinished construction and design. If you wish to tour and the only official ones are meant -guided-tours for potential students, and you would be better off walking it alone anyway. As it is a public university, no one will bother you if you take photos or walk through buildings. Please note that UIC is a massive campus, with over 15,000 students who congregate on campus at any given time. Being on the Halsted, Harrison, Blue Island, Streeterville/Taylor or Roosevelt buses during the university calendar year is bound to be a crowded trip if you use UIC as a starting point for your travels. Additionally and the UIC-Halsted Blue Line stop will be crowded for the same reasons.

Jane Addams Hull House Museum 800 South Halsted Street 41.872028, -87.64725 UIC-Halsted Blue Line ☎ +1-312-413-5353 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10AM Monday - 4PM, Sunday noon-4PM, Monday,Sa closed Free Hull House - UIC Hull House - UIC was built on top of the original Hull House, where the prolific writer and reformer Jane Addams lived and worked to help people in need. This museum is dedicated to her memory in two surviving buildings from the complex, now absorbed into the UIC campus, and features exhibits on local history and social justice throughout the world. Occasionally hosts speakers during the day, and offer a free soup lunch during the discussion.

National Hellenic Museum 333 South Halsted Street 41.8770559, -87.6469255 UIC-Halsted Blue Line ☎ +1-312-655-1234 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10AM Monday - 4PM, Saturday 11AM Monday - 4PM Admission $5 National Hellenic Museum The finished National Hellenic Museum - Now housed in a beautiful glass building and the National Hellenic Museum sits neatly at the start of Greektown's best restaurants. Partnered with the Field Museum and they host many actual Greek relics and also support Greek and Greek-American artists.

National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame 1431 West Taylor Street 41.8691725, -87.66497 ☎ +1-312-226-5566 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9AM Monday - 5PM, Saturday - Sunday 11AM Monday - 4PM $5 National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame - Exactly what the name says; thit is a glittering, big-budget facility, moved here from the suburbs a few years ago. The collection pays tribute to more than 200 inductees from many professional sports, with Joe DiMaggio held in highest esteem. Space for event rentals (like fundraisers for Italian-American politicians) outstrips the space for exhibits, though.

Saint Ignatius College Prep 1076 West Roosevelt Road 41.8675, -87.651667 ☎ +1-312-421-5900 Free, though you might call ahead if school is in session St. Ignatius College Prep Street Ignatius School Chicago IL 80366 Opened in 1869, two years prior to the Chicago Fire, this impressive building is still a working high school. No tours are offered of the interior, but pieces of famous Chicago buildings from the past have been installed around the campus, including murals from the old Chicago Stadium and intriguing ornament from lost Adler & Sullivan and Burnham & Root masterworks. (Next door, Holy Family Church dates from 1857.)

Galleries

The West Loop has a thriving contemporary art gallery scene that's easy to explore on foot. Start at the junction of Peoria and Washington. The two most prominent galleries are the Donald Young and Kavi Gupta galleries, but the adventurous will be rewarded here — there is a wealth of smaller gallery spaces to be explored even beyond this list.

Andrew Rafacz Gallery | 835 West Washington Blvd ☎ +1-312-404-9188 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday noon-6PM, Saturday noon-5PM Contemporary art (mostly painting and photography) by international artists (like Joe Sola).

EC Gallery | 215 North Aberdeen Street Morgan Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-850-0924 Opening Hours: Saturday 11AM Monday - 4PM or by appointment Contemporary art. The primary focus at EC Gallery is the introduction and representation of emerging and mid-career artists whose trainings traverse painting, drawing, mixed media and photo media.

Kavi Gupta Gallery | 835 West Washington Blvd, 2nd floor Morgan Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-432-0708 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10AM Monday - 6PM, Saturday 11AM Monday - 5PM Kavi Gupta's gallery is generally understood to have been the pioneer of the West Loop gallery phenomenon. Today his collection is still one of the area's most important and features new works from emerging international artists. If you're here, you might as well check out the Bucket Rider Gallery on the same floor or any of the other, smaller galleries in the building.

Primitive Art Works Gallery | 130 North Jefferson Street Clinton/Lake Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-575-9600 Opening from Monday to Saturday 10AM Monday - 6PM A large store/gallery packed with so-called "Primitive Art" from around the world. The selection is wide, including (among others): East African jewelry, Native American costumes, old-style Chinese beds, Eastern European stained glass, etc.

Supreme Frame & Art Gallery | 650 West Randolph Street Clinton/Lake Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-930-9056 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 8AM Monday - 4PM, Saturday 9AM Monday - 3PM Several large-sized portraits of contemporary figures. It also sells some antique art and limited editions. Supreme has a large collection of art posters, serigraphs and prints, many with a distinctly Chicago flavor

}}

The UIC campus itself also has Gallery 400 at 400 South Peoria Street (just north of the UIC-Halsted Blue Line stop), which has monthly shows available to the public.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Chicago/Near West Side

Air Jordan - Michael Jordan locked in eternal dunk in front of United Center

Aloft Loft | 2041 West Carroll Ave #306 ☎ +1-773-782-6662 Opening Hours: Check website for showtimes A theater group comprised of... trapeze artists?! The space is run by an "aerial dance" troupe which puts on shows and runs high-flying circus training programs. If you're in town for the week and looking for something really out of the ordinary to do, consider signing up for their Two-Day Beginning Trapeze course ($65). It's in an alley and has no signs, so you'll have to really look for it.

Johnny's Ice House | 1350 West Madison Street 20 Madison bus ☎ +1-312-226-5555 - If one of the local hockey teams inspires you to strap on skates, Johnny's Ice House offers ice skating year-round for people of all experience levels, and the Chicago Blackhawks occasionally stop by.

UIC Pavilion 525 South Racine 41.8747, -87.6561 Racine Blue Line ☎ +1-312-413-5740 Opening Hours: Box office Thursday - Friday 9AM Monday - 6PM, 2-3 hours before events Tickets $15-35 UIC Pavilion - Uic pavilion UIC's campus stadium is remarkably adaptable, hosting college sports like basketball and the school's stand-out ice hockey team (the Flames), Chicago's WNBA team (the Sky), and as concerts for mid-sized to major touring bands.

United Center 1901 West Madison Street 41.880556, -87.674167 20 Madison bus ☎ +1-312-455-4500 Most games start from $38 for upper level seats, concerts closer to $50 United Center - United Center Exterior - Home of the NBA Chicago Bulls the NHL Chicago Blackhawks. The United Center doesn't have much in the way of character as a stadium, but the sightlines are great from anywhere in the house, and both teams are on an upswing. Fans of Michael Jordan (who played here from 1996-98) should look for his jersey in the rafters and his statue outside. (Check the statue details — he's wearing stone Air Jordans!) Most games sell out, but it's feasible to find tickets at or near face value. On off-nights, thit is Chicago's second-largest concert venue for big touring bands and the circus (in November), and other random events.

Shopping in Chicago/Near West Side

The New Maxwell Street Market still runs from 7AM Monday - 3PM every Sunday (☎ +1-312-922-3100), regardless of season. The much smaller size and higher vendor fees ensure that the original flavor of the world's greatest outdoor market is now only a piece of history, but the New Market has a truly awe-inspiring number of affordable Mexican food along with discount jewelry, t-shirts, random vintage items, suspicious electronics, and other flea market classics, and is a lot of fun.

More traditional retail has been slow to develop for the rest of the Near West Side, with college students being the only relatively affluent consumer group in the area. Even after the spate of expensive residential developments in the Gulf countries Loop and University Village, it's still under-served for shopping purposes. However and there are a few places worthy of note:

Athenian Candle Co | 300 South Halsted Street UIC-Halsted Blue Line ☎ +1-312-332-6988 Opening Hours: Monday,T,Thursday,F 9:30AM Monday - 6PM, Saturday 9:30AM Monday - 5PM It's worth a visit just to gawk at their wall of candles, but the fun in browsing begins with their extensive and eclectic collection of religious/spiritual items, from the Christian to the arcane. Ponder to which category the "Pope holograms" belong.

Bennett Wine Studio | 802 West Washington Blvd ☎ +1-312-666-4417 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday noon-7PM, Saturday noon-6PM, Sunday noon-5PM $10-15 Bennett has a strong and established reputation in Chicago for stocking her store with only the most tastefulfruit cocktails, most of them from small estates and with very reasonable price tags.

Erin Gallagher - 1017 West Lake Street Morgan Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-492-7548 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11AM Monday - 7PM, Saturday noon-7PM, Sunday noon-5PM Boutique and custom jewelry by one of Chicago's most reputable designers, although you have a chance to compete a bit by designing your own pieces.

Lissa on Maxwell | 729 West Maxwell Street ☎ +1-312-563-9470 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11AM Monday - 7PM, Saturday 10AM Monday - 6PM, Sunday 11AM Monday - 5PM $250 for a dress on Maxwell Street? If you can get over that historical incongruity, you'll discover that thit is a pretty cool operation, with talented designers not yet featured in places like Chicago/Near North|Michigan Avenue, and biographies provided for each so you can investigate further.

If you need a sunscreen or a new pair of affordable jeans and there is a Target just north of the UIC-Halsted Blue Line stop at 1101 West Jackson Blvd.

Halal Restaurants

Please be informed that on some destination such as Chicago/Near West Side we had no local Muslim/a that has researched some of the area. If you are a Muslim/a and have been to Chicago/Near West Side or would like to maintain the eHalal Guide to Chicago/Near West Side, please contact us at guides@ehalal.io or email us your updates.

Cuisine is a major attraction for the West Side, with two of the city's most celebrated strips: Little Italy (Racine Blue Line) and Greektown (UIC-Halsted Blue Line). Restaurants are almost all that remain of the communities that were there before the bulldozers and redevelopment of the 1960s. Culinary preferences will presumably guide your decision, but all things being equal, Greektown is the better choice, because UIC has more of a presence in the Little Italy area.

Greek

Also see Chicago/Near West Side#Drink|Drink — the bars in Greektown can be good dinner options, too, unless you're looking for family dining.

Artopolis Bakery & Cafe | 306 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-559-9000 Opening Hours: Cafe Monday - Thursday 9AM Monday - midnight, F-Sa 9AM Monday - 1AM, Sunday 10AM Monday - 11PM; Kitchen Sunday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 11PM, F-Sa 11AM Monday - midnight $8-16 Greek artisan breads provide the foundation for bakery treats, sandwiches, and wood-fired Pizzas.There's a full and list as well.

Greektown Gyros | 239 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-236-9310 Opening Hours: 24 hours $6 There's the dinner scene in Greektown, and then there's the long-after-dinner scene. Few places in Chicago will treat you better after you leave a bar at 2AM.

Meli Cafe & Juice Cafe | 301 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-454-0748 Opening from Monday to Saturday 6AM Monday - 4PM $9 A bright and relaxed brunch option, with cage-free eggs and Mediterranean-influenced soups and sandwiches.

Mr. Greek Gyros | 234 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-906-8731 Opening Hours: 24 hours $5 Another solid option for greasy late-night gyros.

Zeus Inc. | 806 West Jackson Blvd ☎ +1-312-258-8789 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 7:30AM Monday - 9PM, F-Sa 11AM Monday - 9PM A popular lunch joint.

Other

The aforementioned University Village has a plenty of sandwiches shops and pleasant, undistinguished (Thai), sushi, froyo and other fast food restaurants catering to UIC students. These are mainly housed on Taylor Street, and are in walking distance from the Taylor side of the campus.

Al's #1 Italian Beef | 1079 West Taylor Street ☎ +1-312-226-4017 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 9AM Monday - 11PM, Friday 9AM Monday - midnight, Saturday 10AM Monday - midnight $5-8 With it's highly distinctive finely chopped giardinera with tons of red pepper for the heat, Al's has won accolades from various sources claiming it serves one of the top ten sandwiches in America, or more plausibly from the Chicago Magazine and the best Italian Beef in the city. It has since grown into a chain, but thit is the original, and the destination of choice for aficionados.

Gus’s World Famous Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken 847 Wednesday to Fridayulton Market 41.88667, -87.64939 ☎ +1-312-733-1971 Opening Hours: Su–W 11AM–10PM, Th–Sa 11AM–midnight Fried Chicken.

Harold's Chicken Shack #39 | 518 West Harrison Street Clinton Blue Line ☎ +1-312-662-9000 Opening from Monday to Saturday 9:30AM Monday - 9PM, Sunday 10AM Monday - 7PM $2-5 Harold's is here to give UIC students a graduate seminar in the art of cheap, delicious Chicken.

Jim's Original Hot Dog | 1250 South Union Street UIC-Halsted Blue Line ☎ +1-312-733-7820 Opening Hours: 24 hours $3-5 Established in 1939, this long-time purveyor of the Chicago#The_Chicago_hot_dog|Maxwell Street Polish was able to move a few blocks away when the last hold-outs were evicted in 2001. Whether it's as good as it used to be is purely academic; it's an original, and it's good.

Mario's Italian Lemonade | 1068 West Taylor Street Racine Blue Line Opening Hours: Open May to September only; 11AM Monday - midnight $1-3 If you're dining in Little Italy in the summer, skip dessert at your restaurant and come here instead. Mario's has been selling delicious Italian ice all over Chicago for more than 50 years. There are several flavors, but lemon is the staple.

The Patio | 1503 West Taylor Street ☎ +1-312-829-0454 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 10:30AM Monday - 11PM, F-Sa 11:30AM Monday - midnight $4-6 Another one of the few places serving the fast food classics like Chicago-style Hot Dogs and Italian beef sandwiches here, in the area where they were born.

White Palace Grill | 1159 South Canal Street ☎ +1-312-939-7167 Opening Hours: 24 hours A good and reliable all-night diner near Little Italy and the university. Since 1939, and fortunate enough to have avoided displacement.

Greek

Most of the restaurants in Greektown offer free valet parking. You should be able to enjoy a meal for less than $25 at any of these restaurants, although if you'd like to splurge, most of the menus have seafood or lamb options to make that feasible.

Athena Restaurant | 212 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-655-0000 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11AM Monday - midnight, F-Sa 11AM Monday - 1AM $10-18, family dinners $20 per person Lots of hot and cold appetizers to accompany the entrees, which are a little cheaper and a little less plentiful than the other Greektown restaurants. Nice indoor and outdoor seating.

Greek Islands | 200 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-782-9855 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11AM Monday - midnight, F-Sa 11AM Monday - 1AM One of the best and probably the biggest Greek restaurant in the city, with about 400 seats. Good standard Greek food: seafood, lamb, and Chicken.

Pegasus Restaurant | 130 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-226-3377 Opening Hours: Sunday noon-11PM, Monday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 11PM, Friday 11AM Monday - 1AM, Saturday noon-1AM Entrees $14-22, family dinners $22 per person Sister restaurant to the Artopolis Bakery (above). They're also at the Chicago/Southwest Side|Midway food court.

Santorini | 800 West Adams Street ☎ +1-312-829-8820 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11AM Monday - midnight, F-Sa 11AM Monday - 1AM Family-style dinners $20-30 per person Santorini specializes in seafood. Excellent for the real Chicago Greek experience. Reservations not necessary.

Italian

Valet parking is available at sit-down Little Italy restaurants for a nominal fee ($2-6).

Conte Di Savoia European Specialties | 1438 West Taylor Street Racine Blue Line ☎ +1-312-666-3471 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9AM Monday - 7PM, Saturday 9AM Monday - 6PM, Sunday 9AM Monday - 4PM Cheap, good Italian deli sandwiches amidst an enormous range of imported and groceries.

Francesca's on Taylor 1400 West Taylor Street ☎ +1-312-829-2828 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11:30AM Monday - 2:30PM; Monday 5PM Monday - 9PM, Tuesday - Thursday 5PM Monday - 10PM, F-Sa 5PM Monday - 11PM, Sunday 4PM Monday - 9PM $18-28 Excellent Italian restaurant, and probably the busiest in Little Italy — reservations are a good idea on weekends. Moderately priced and normally provides excellent service for large parties.

RoSal's Italian Cucina 1154 West Taylor Street ☎ +1-312-243-2357 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 4PM Monday - 9PM, F-Sa 4PM Monday - 11PM, Sunday 3PM Monday - 8PM Entrees $13-22. On the last Tuesday of the month (or any time with a group of 15), you can obtain a "Big Night" dinner for $75 per person. For the "Family" atmosphere in Italian food.

Tufano's | 1073 Vernon Park Pl ☎ +1-312-733-3393 Opening Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 10PM, Friday 11AM Monday - 11PM, Saturday 4PM Monday - 11PM, Sunday 3PM Monday - 9PM Tricky to find on a residential block behind Taylor Street, but Tufano's is a nice, relaxed Italian place to eat before a night at the United Center.

Tuscany 1014 West Taylor Street ☎ +1-312-829-1990 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 11AM Monday - 10PM, Friday 11AM Monday - 11PM, Saturday 4PM Monday - 11PM, Sunday 4PM Monday - 9PM $12-20 A mainstay of the Little Italy scene.

Other

Dine | 733 West Madison Street 20 Madison bus ☎ +1-312-602-2100 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 6AM Monday - 10PM, F-Sa 6AM Monday - 11PM Sandwiches $8-10, Other entrees $12-28 West Loop restaurant designed to be a really nice 1940s diner. It's next to the Crowne Plaza Hotel (see Chicago/Near West Side#Sleep|Sleep).

The Publican | 837 Wednesday to Fridayulton Market Morgan Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-733-9555 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 3:30PM Monday - 10:30PM, F-Sa to 11:30PM; Sunday 10AM Monday - 2PM, 5PM Monday - 10PM $20-35 Come hungry and carnivorous, as the Publican delivers mighty plates stacked high with ham, lamb, Beef bellies, and other meats. There's also quite a lot of gourmet seafood from around the world. The Sunday brunch will destroy you.

Wishbone | 1001 West Washington Blvd Morgan Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-850-2663 $7-15 "Southern Reconstruction Cooking" includes some nice Vegetarian options along with seafood, Chicken, burgers, and a large variety of great Southern sides.

The city's most trendy and expensive restaurants are to be found in the Gulf countries Loop / Fulton Market District.

Carnivale | 702 Wednesday to Fridayulton Market Clinton/Lake Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-850-5005 Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 11:30AM Monday - 10:30PM (bar to midnight), Friday 11:30AM Monday - 11:30PM (bar to 1:30AM), Saturday 5PM Monday - 11:30PM (bar to 1:30AM), Sunday 5PM Monday - 10PM This chic Nuevo-Latino club has a great wait-staff and nice, colorful yet understated decor. Needless to say and they're always ready with a margarita, but only the (delicious) appetizers are available in the afternoon hours.

Girl and the Goat | 809 West Randolph Street Morgan Green/Pink Line ☎ +1-312-492-6262 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 4:30PM Monday - 11PM, F-Sa 4:30PM Monday - midnight $25+

"Top Chef" winner Stephanie Izard offers ten options each from the Meat, seafood, and vegetable categories; sharing plates is advised, and pairing with organic juice is highly encouraged (30 carefully selected brews on tap). Though the menu changes with the chef's creative whims, variations on the "pig face" theme seem to be a mainstay.

Oh Maxwell Street, what have you become? A few generic, upscale sports bars catering to university students and owners of new townhomes oozed in once the blues were gone.

9 Muses | 315 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-902-9922 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11AM Monday - 2AM, Saturday noon-3AM, Sunday noon-2AM $13 More of a modern style than the other Greektown restaurants, but with plentiful portions of food, good outdoor seating, and an enthusiastic late-night dance scene.

Jaks Tap | 901 West Jackson Blvd ☎ +1-312-666-1700 Opening Hours: Monday - West 11AM Monday - midnight, Thursday - Friday 11AM Monday - 2AM, Saturday noon-2AM, Sunday noon-11PM A good stop after a game at the United Center. Jaks takes pride in their baby-back BBQ ribs and has more than 40 soft drinks on tap.

Spectrum Grill | 233 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-715-0770 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11AM Monday - 4AM, Saturday 5PM Monday - 5AM, Sunday 5PM Monday - 4AM The Greektown location means that ouzo and saganaki have a place among the usual bar & grill fare.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Chicago/Near West Side

Chicago/Near West Side - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Chicago/Near West Side, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Chicago/Near West Side. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Chicago/Near West Side and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Chicago/Near West Side. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Chicago/Near West Side. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Chicago/Near West Side: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Chicago/Near West Side.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Chicago/Near West Side: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Chicago/Near West Side, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Chicago/Near West Side.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Chicago/Near West Side, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Chicago/Near West Side, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Chicago/Near West Side and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Chicago/Near West Side, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Chicago/Near West Side, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Chicago/Near West Side without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Chicago/Near West Side is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Chicago/Near West Side.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Chicago/Near West Side is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Chicago/Near West Side, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Chicago/Near West Side Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Chicago/Near West Side

eHalal Group Chicago/Near West Side is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Chicago/Near West Side. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Chicago/Near West Side.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Chicago/Near West Side ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Chicago/Near West Side. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Chicago/Near West Side, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Chicago/Near West Side are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are many more hotels in the Chicago/Loop|Loop, close to the Blue Line, and a few places in the Chicago/Near South|Near South will also be fine if you'd like quick access to the West Side.

Chicago Marriott at Medical District/UIC | 625 South Ashland Ave ☎ +1-312-491-1234 Rooms from $209 As the name implies, this hotel is close to UIC and Rush University Medical Center, and also to Little Italy. A free shuttle service to the Chicago/Loop|Loop and the usual business amenities are available.

Crowne Plaza Metro | 733 West Madison Street 20 Madison bus ☎ +1-312-829-5000 Rooms from $175 Just west of the Loop.

Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Downtown Chicago | 506 West Harrison Street ☎ +1-312-957-9100 Rooms from $269 Very close to the Chicago/Near South|Near South and the Chicago/Loop|Loop as well.

Chicago Parthenon Hostel 310 South Halsted Street ☎ +1-312-258-1399 From $27 Good hostel in Greektown within walking distance of Union Station (about 7 to 10 minutes walk) with free breakfast, wi-fi and onsite restaurant.

Telecommunications in Chicago/Near West Side

The following libraries offer free public internet access:

Mabel Manning Library | 6 South Hoyne Avenue 20 Madison bus ☎ +1-312-746-6800 Opening Hours: Monday,W noon-8PM, Tu,Thursday10AM Monday - 6PM, F-Sa 9AM Monday - 5PM Two blocks east of the United Center.

Theodore Roosevelt Library | 1101 West Taylor Street UIC-Halsted Blue Line ☎ +1-312-746-5656 Opening Hours: Monday,W noon-8PM, Tu,Thursday10AM Monday - 6PM, F-Sa 9AM Monday - 5PM Close to UIC.

UIC does not offer public internet access, as their WiFi networks are meant for students only. The Richard J. Daley library (801 S. Morgan) is open to the public, but after 5PM they check IDs and only let students in.

Stay Safe

Know where you're going, especially at night. Aside from the few major thoroughfares and the Near West Side has long, deserted stretches where help will be difficult to find. On the UIC campus, keep an eye out for kiosks with help phones. Also, while eating in Little Italy, don't fill up on bread; you will be unable to properly enjoy your main dish. (The same risk applies to making pre-emptive grabs for saganaki in Greektown.)

News & References Chicago/Near West Side

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Chicago/Near West Side

If you were here for the Blues legacy of Maxwell Street, carry on to Willie Dixon's Blues Heaven in the Chicago/Near South|Near South and the Black Metropolis of Chicago/Bronzeville|Bronzeville and then consider moving on further south to today's home of the Chicago Blues in Chicago/Chatham-South Shore|Chatham-South Shore.
If you prefer a Northern Italian take on Pastas or you still aren't full, head to the smaller but more atmospheric "Heart of Italy" near Chicago/Pilsen|Pilsen.

Chicago/Near West Side

From Halal Explorer

Contents