Chicago: Food Tour on Devon Avenue

Foodies and culinary adventurers will find plenty to satisfy their palates on Chicago’s Devon Avenue. This bustling street boasts over 300 restaurants and diverse grocers, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry. From Croatian to South Asian cuisine, the food tour promises a mouthwatering journey through the neighborhood’s rich gastronomic heritage. Whether you’re craving hearty dishes or decadent sweets, this guided excursion will open your eyes to the edible wonders that await.

Key Points

• The 3-hour food tour explores the culinary diversity of Devon Avenue, which features over 300 restaurants representing various cultures.
• Participants visit the Blessed Aloysius Stepinac Croatian Catholic Mission to learn about the local history and cultural heritage.
• The tour includes a dining experience at Ghareeb Nawaz Restaurant, known for its large-portioned, affordable South Asian dishes.
• Participants indulge in traditional South Indian desserts at the renowned Tahoora Sweets & Bakery.
• The tour has a limited group size of 10 participants and offers a "Reserve now & pay later" payment option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Logistics

The Food Tour on Devon Avenue lasts for 3 hours and is priced from $125.00 per person.

The group size is limited to 10 participants, and the tour is conducted in English. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

There’s no need to pay upfront, as the tour offers a "reserve now & pay later" option.

The tour showcases the culinary diversity of this vibrant neighborhood, where over 40 languages are spoken and more than 300 restaurants represent a multitude of cultures.

Culinary Diversity of Devon Avenue

Over 40 languages are spoken along Devon Avenue, a culinary hotspot showcasing a multitude of cultures.

This vibrant neighborhood boasts:

1. More than 300 restaurants, each offering a unique taste of global cuisine.

2. A diverse array of grocers, from the world’s largest Indian supermarket chain to a vast selection of kosher wines and goods.

3. Bakeries and dessert shops serving traditional South Asian and Middle Eastern specialties.

4. Apparel shops featuring colorful Indian textiles and intricate designs, providing culture.

This dynamic landscape invites visitors to embark on a flavorful journey through the culinary diversity of Devon Avenue.

Exploring the Blessed Aloysius Stepinac Croatian Catholic Mission

As the tour begins, participants gather at the Blessed Aloysius Stepinac Croatian Catholic Mission to learn about the local history and cultural heritage of the Devon Avenue neighborhood.

The guide provides insights into the significance of this religious institution, which serves the Croatian community. Participants explore the ornate interior and learn about the mission’s role in preserving Croatian traditions and identity within the diverse tapestry of Devon Avenue.

The stop sets the stage for the culinary and cultural discoveries that await as the group continues its immersive journey along this vibrant commercial corridor.

Dining at Ghareeb Nawaz Restaurant

Next, the tour stops at Ghareeb Nawaz Restaurant, a beloved eatery known for its large-portioned, affordable meals.

The group learns about the restaurant’s popularity among the local community and its reputation for satisfying hearty appetites.

The tour guide highlights key features:

1. Generous serving sizes that leave diners feeling full and satisfied.

2. Affordable prices that make it accessible to a wide range of budgets.

3. A menu featuring a variety of traditional South Asian dishes.

4. A welcoming atmosphere that reflects the diverse neighborhood.

The tour members eagerly anticipate sampling the cuisine at Ghareeb Nawaz Restaurant.

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Indulging in Sweets at Tahoora Sweets & Bakery

The tour then proceeds to Tahoora Sweets & Bakery, a long-standing hotel renowned for its traditional South Indian desserts. Theres some good a variety of regional specialties, including:

| Dessert | Description |

| — | — |

| Habshi Halwa | A dense, fudge-like confection made with semolina, ghee, and saffron |

| Kaju Katli | Delicate diamond-shaped candies crafted from cashews, sugar, and cardamom |

| Jalebi | Sticky, syrup-soaked spirals of fried dough |

| Rasmalai | Soft, spongy cheese patties submerged in sweetened, thickened milk |

| Burfi | Fudge-like squares flavored with nuts, aromatic spices, or dried fruits |

With an array of vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas, Tahoora Sweets & Bakery provides a delightful taste of South Asian culinary traditions.

Shopping at India Sari Palace Ltd

Guests on the food tour then head to India Sari Palace Ltd, a vibrant textile emporium showcasing an array of intricate Indian apparel and accessories.

The store features:

1. Colorful saris and lehengas adorned with intricate embroidery, sequins, and beadwork.

2. Stylish kurtas, salwar kameez, and other traditional Indian garments in a spectrum of hues.

3. Exquisite jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and bangles, that complement the vibrant textiles.

4. An extensive collection of fabrics by the yard, perfect for sewing custom pieces or home decor.

Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of India through the store’s diverse offerings.

Visiting Patel Brothers and Kol Tuv Kosher Foods Inc

After seeing the vibrant textiles at India Sari Palace Ltd, tour participants move on to explore the diverse culinary offerings of the neighborhood. The next stops include Patel Brothers, the world’s largest Indian supermarket chain, and Kol Tuv Kosher Foods boasting a vast selection of kosher wines and groceries.

| Store | Offerings | Cultural Significance |

| — | — | — |

| Patel Brothers | Wide range of Indian ingredients, spices, and packaged goods | Provides access to familiar flavors and essentials for the Indian community |

| Kol Tuv Kosher Foods Inc. | Extensive kosher selection, including wines and other groceries | Caters to the Jewish population, preserving cultural and dietary traditions |

These stops offer participants a chance to delve deeper into the diverse food and cultural landscape of Devon Avenue.

Experiencing Iraqi Cuisine at Nineveh Kebob Express

What better way to explore the culinary and cultural heritage of Devon Avenue than by visiting Nineveh Kebob Express? This family-owned restaurant offers a taste of authentic Iraqi cuisine.

Guests can:

1. Sample homemade dishes like kebabs, stews, and rice platters.

2. Learn about Iraqi customs and traditions from the knowledgeable staff.

3. Observe the restaurant’s vibrant decor, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.

4. Engage in conversation with fellow diners and gain insights into the Iraqi-American community on Devon Avenue.

Nineveh Kebob Express provides a delicious and immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of the diverse flavors and traditions that make up this vibrant neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour group size is limited to 10 participants. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience as the guide can provide more attention and interaction with each guest.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour is focused on experiencing the diverse culinary offerings along Devon Avenue, so bringing outside items is not permitted.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available?

The tour offers vegetarian and gluten-free options at several stops, allowing participants with dietary restrictions to fully enjoy the culinary diversity of Devon Avenue. Customers should inform the tour guide of any special dietary needs.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Establishments?

You’re welcome to take photos inside the establishments, but it’s best to ask for permission first out of respect for the businesses and other guests. Most locations are happy to accommodate photography as long as it doesn’t disrupt the experience.

Is There Any Wheelchair Accessibility During the Tour?

The tour offers wheelchair accessibility throughout the various stops. Participants with mobility needs are accommodated, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the culinary and cultural experiences along Devon Avenue.

The Sum Up

The food tour on Chicago’s Devon Avenue offers a unique opportunity to take in the neighborhood’s vibrant culinary landscape. From exploring a Croatian Catholic mission to indulging in South Asian delicacies and Iraqi cuisine, the tour showcases the remarkable diversity that defines this dynamic community. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious, this gastronomic adventure promises an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: