(Turkey and spinach burger from Earwax Cafe - don't let the name of the cafe turn you off!)

So there I was in Chicago. I had heard great things about the city from friends and, as always, was eager and excited to seek out some culinary gems around town. I resisted the urge to try and get into a taping of Oprah and spent as much time as possible exploring, mostly by foot, the great city of Chicago, and let me tell you, it definitely has more to offer than deep dish pizza.

I naturally gravitated towards an area of the city known as Wicker Park. Bohemian in nature, this district was teeming with vintage shops, record stores, art galleries, and (most importantly) a fantastic mix of establishments that were just as eclectic as the people that walked the streets.

First up (lunch): Earwax Café. Perhaps not the best name for a restaurant, but judging by the crowd it seemed like a popular breakfast/lunch spot which was also vegan-friendly (tofu ‘egg’ scramble anyone?), mostly organic, and boasted a circus themed décor.

I enjoyed a turkey and spinach burger with homemade tortilla chips and salsa verde while my friend opted for the organic yogurt and organic fruit cobbler.

Second (coffee break): with an extensive drink menu and baked goods (and a dinner menu if you’re hungry for more than a muffin or a cookie), Filter Coffee Lounge was the perfect spot for a mid-day break.

Coffee beans are roasted in-house which created an awesome smell, which only added to the great atmosphere, including high ceilings and comfy couches as far as the eye can see!

(Tacos from Big Star!)

Third (dinner time): Big Star, a Mexican-themed restaurant and bar with menu items which will run you an average of $2-$4.  How could I go wrong? I ordered the braised pork belly tacos ($3) and grilled basa tostadas ($3). Big Star also has a large selection of micro-brewed beers so I had a Green Flash IPA from San Diego, CA ($3) to go with the meal.

Needless to say the windy city ‘blew’ me away with all my great experiences and I can’t wait to return. Pretty cheesy I know but I was dying for a pun.

Earwax Cafe
1561 North Milwaukee Avenue
Chicago, IL
(773) 772-4019

Filter
1373-75 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL
(773) 904-7819

Big Star
1531 North Damen Avenue
Chicago, IL
(773) 235-4039

Dan Clapson is a business manager and food blogger based out of Calgary. He is always creating new recipes and striving to expand his culinary limits.

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