Chicago's home to a vibrant Asian immigrant community and authentic dining and shopping.

by Contributor

Overview
An ornate arch and the massive On Leong Tong building at Wentworth and Cermak mark the center of Chinatown. Along with dozens of Chinese stores and restaurants, the ornamentation and construction methods give the area an Asian feel, and for some distance around commercial establishments evince their Chinese-American proprietorship and clientele. This location is the result of the On Leong Tong, a mutual-aid society, arranging for leases along Wentworth after the 1912 displacement of an earlier South Loop Chinatown. Since then, the community has grown in wealth and scope while remaining an entry point for new immigrants.

The Experience
The strips along Cermak and Wentworth cater more to tourists than locals, often with higher prices for lower quality. For a real look at the neighborhood, and more authentic and less expensive dining and shopping, walk the side streets west of Wentworth, or try the strip malls along Archer Avenue.

06/26/02

Lots to explore

by peterbehle_citysearch

Much of the touristy part of Chinatown is worn and ragged, but there's good stuff to be found and sights to see if you get off the main streets. Wander out to where the real people shop and eat and live. Parking is cheap in the big lot under The El station, but it can get filled early on weekends. Take the Red Line.

• Pros: Plenty to see
• Cons: Parking can be tough