Southport Corridor
West of Wrigleyville is the charming and bustling neighborhood of Southport Corridor. Almost mimicking a small town, you will find Music Box and Mercury Theatres, the old school charm of the Southport el Station, and quaint streets lined with trees.
Almost surrounded by the historic I-beams of the Brown and Red lines, Southport Corridor is the heart of Chicago’s North side. Top-rated restaurants, boutiques, and theatres line the central business strip of Southport Avenue, while residents live in single family homes, moderately-sized apartment buildings and classic 2-3-flats buildings.
Southport Avenue used to be a stagecoach line, carrying passengers and goods from Milwaukee and Kenosha to Chicago’s markets. While the stages are gone, the aura of commerce is still apparent in the neighborhood. From a major thoroughfare to a vibrant neighborhood, Southport Corridor is one of the best places to call home!
From sports to theatre, check out some of these outstanding spots in the Southport Corridor:
- Corridor
This contemporary American restaurant also has a brewery specializing in IPAs. - Tango Sur
An Argentinian steakhouse, you have to try the churrasco or parrillada. - Crosby’s Kitchen
The pan cornbread at this comfort food joint is the greatest. - Doña Tola
This upscale Mexican restaurant has serious eats and whimsical vibes. - Tuco & Blondie
This modern Mexican restaurant also serves up some classy cocktails.
- Paulina Meat Market
Quality selection of meats- they even have some Hot Doug’s Sausages! - Bitter Pops
This expansive bottle shop has a pub in the back and a build-your-own cooler. - Chicago Music Exchange
Used, new, rental instruments can be had at this funky music store. - Batik Chicago
The motto at this boutique i s “styling with colorful flair” and they aren’t wrong! - Hotel Chocolat
This fine chocolatier particularly specializes in european style drinking chocolates.
- Schubas
This mainstay of music in Chicago has a great restaurant attached for the pre-show! - The Metro
Seriously a Chicago landmark for anyone, this is a rite of passage venue. - Underground Lounge
This swank underground cocktail bar vibes like an old speakeasy. - Cubby Bear
Upstairs, above the Cubs themed bar, there are great bands playing weekly. - G-Man Tavern
One of the few remaining mainstays of Clark Street, this dive has hosted almost every Chicago band.
- Music Box Cinema
This revival theatre has some oldies and some new indie flicks. - Chicago Cubs
I mean this goes without saying, right?! - Two-Hearted Queen
Potlucks, group meetings, and more are held at this indie coffee roaster. - Chicago City Soccer Club
This youth soccer club is the perfect extracurricular activity. - Guthrie’s Tavern
This classic Chicago haunt has board games, euchre night, and more!
- Newport Theatre
From cabaret to drinking games, it’s about audience participation! - Cathy Lancaster Gallery
This vibrant abstract artwork comes in acrylics, oil, and wallpaper! - Theatre Wit
This theatre puts on local productions that are usually Chicago-centric. - The Check Out
An old 7-11 that now hosts music lessons, chamber music, and even the occasional wedding. - Mercury Theatre
Longstanding playhouse that features comedies and feel good plays.
- Brown Line
Southport, Paulina, Belmont - Red Line
Addison, Belmont - Purple Line
Belmont - Ashland Avenue Bus #9
- Belmont Avenue Bus #77
- Addison Street Bus #152



