The Edge in Edgewater
By Marla Seidell, Contributor
Edgewater may sound like a far ride on the El, but easy lakefront access, an abundance of ethnic eateries and vintage emporiums make this Far North enclave well worth the trek. Although it's gentrifying at warp speed, the neighborhood manages to retain a tranquil vibe, with turn-of-the-century homes and 1920s architecture that attracts families and young fashionables alike. Ethiopian, Asian fusion and noodle houses are among the diverse cuisine offerings, while live music, belly dance, and cozy bars keep locals and visitors clamoring for more.
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Ben's Noodles & Rice
1139 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, IL
Small wooden tables, decorative colored lights and an attentive staff entice locals to this casual noodles and rice storefront on a regular basis. Pad Thai, spicy basil noodles and piquant curries are among the standouts. -
Indie Cafe Sushi & Thai
5951 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL
Urban chic meets upscale interior design at this elegant spot that lures in patrons with gauzy white curtains, funky abstract artwork and shimmering candles. In addition to creative sushi ensembles like Chicago crazy and spicy scallop, basil chicken and stir-fried paradise (fillet of fish with vegetables and soy bean sauce) are popular favorites. -
Ras Dashen
5846 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL
The Ethiopians quietly chatting amongst themselves in the back are as much as part of the tranquil ambience as the friendly staff and the generous dishes, served on spectacularly large trays. Go on a Friday or Saturday night to hear live jazz, and be sure to try the miser wat (lentils in spicy red pepper sauce), which pairs well with big chunks of injera bread. -
Ethiopian Diamond Restaurant
6120 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL
Lime green walls, gorgeously vivid artwork of the homeland and colorful mosseb (straw serving baskets used for family style dining) create a convivial atmosphere at this Ethiopian favorite. Spaciousness provides the peaceful coexistence of two worlds: Ethiopians socializing and watching sports on the projection size television, and the non-natives, devouring platters of beef, chicken, lamb and vegetables. -
Habibi
1225-27 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL
An Egyptian motif of pharaohs lining the walls, in addition to a water fountain and a lighted floor convey Las Vegas kitschy opulence at this restaurant. The Middle Eastern fare is no less palatial-- from falafel to Lebanese salad, shish kebab lamb and musakhan, the signature dish of chicken in wrapped in thin bread. Perks include free cinnamon tea, poured throughout the meal, and the chance for long conversations with company. -
Summer Noodle & Rice
1123 W Granville Ave, Chicago, IL
Small white tables and chairs, tropical plants and soft mood music set the relaxing, summer-like ambience of this Asian eatery. Fresh basil and creamy sauces, from panang curry to black bean, are abundant on the menu, as are daring combinations such as mango shrimp and duck with pineapple. -
Cotes du Rhone
5423 N Broadway, Chicago, IL
If you're trying to keep your affair(s) on the dl, this Edgewater B.Y.O.B. is the perfect place: The dim lighting will work in your favor.
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Edgewater Lounge
5600 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL
PBRs, hearty bar food, live music and a retro ambience at this small but cozy bar makes for a pleasant evening. Go for the fish fry on Fridays, or the barbecue baby back ribs on Saturday. -
Uncommon Ground
1401 W Devon, Chicago, IL
With a state-of-the-art eco design, organic drinks and food, this cousin of the original bar/restaurant/performance center in Wrigleyville leaves no stone unturned when it comes to ultra-hip attitude. Music here is some of the best world music acts in town--from flamenco to Balkan jazz and South American folk. -
Ole St. Andrew's Pub
5938 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL
Al Green on the jukebox, regulars who know each other’s names, chatty bartenders and a pool table are all staples at this welcoming Scottish pub. Single malt scotches and an eclectic menu (Shepard’s pie, mussels, fish and chips) round out the over-the-pond theme. -
Broadway Cellars
5900 N Broadway Ave, Chicago, IL
Elegant white tablecloths, exposed brick and softly glowing lighting encourage intimate conversations and special occasions here. Self-designed wine flights, a good supply of dessert wines (from ports to Hungarian Royal Tokaji), and an outdoor patio makes this wining and dining gem a neighborhood refuge.
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Broadway Antique Market
6130 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL
Glittering baubles galore, antique handbags, posters, furniture, and yes, clothing (coats, dresses and skirts), are among the trappings at this warehouse of vintage goods. Digging for treasures is the perfect way to spend a leisurely weekend afternoon. -
Edgewater Antique Mall
6314 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL
Powder blue rotary phones, overflowing knick knacks, clothing, dishes, typewriters and Formica tables make a visit to this store an odyssey into the past. Instead of going to Target or Ikea, stop here to pick up a new lamp or wine glasses with a more classic feel. -
Gethsemane Garden Center
5739 N Clark St, Chicago, IL
A trip to Edgewater is not complete without a visit to this lush and fully stocked plant and garden center. Stop by the overflowing greenhouse to pick up an orchid or tropical plant, and get a brightly colored potter to go along with it. -
Lisa's Loot & Antiques
6056 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL
Lisa specializes in vintage furniture (dressers, office desks and kitchen tables) with a contemporary flair. Danish modern is not uncommon here, nor are rare vintage art posters.
