Avondale
Lying in the cultural shadow of Logan Square and Wicker Park, Avondale holds its own when it comes to being a unique place to live. With an emerging art scene, robust music presence, and great local food options, the neighborhood always provides something extra special.
Snuggled between the Kennedy Expressway and Milwaukee Avenue, the Avondale neighborhood is full of diagonal streets lined with trees, single family homes, traditional three-flats and small businesses. It is perfectly situated- a little neighborhood off the main drag, but not too far away.
Avondale was named after the Avondale Ranch, when the small township looked more like the Wild West than a Midwestern outpost. Now it is a portrait of community, having been labelled as one of Chicago’s best kept secrets.
Here’s a quick guide to the food, the music, and the particulars!
Food
- Dapper’s East
Don’t let the strip mall fool you, this American diner is so classic and tasty. - Honey Butter Fried Chicken
You’ll find the best fried chicken at this quaint restaurant! - Kuma’s Corner
You don’t have to like heavy metal to enjoy these inventive burgers. - La Nonna
Local fresh Argentinian food, inspired by grandma, enjoyed by all. - Taqueria Traspasada
The true gem at this taco joint is the salsa negra!
Shopping
- Joong Boo
A Korean market that offers produce, kitchen gadgets, and a good fish selection. - Beer Temple
Buy brews or try a few at their small tap room- you’ll always find something new! - Bucket O’ Blood Books & Records
Manga, Music, Games, Comics. This is a fun shop. - The Horror House
All the merch from your favorite horror movies- slashers, gore and more! - The Alley
This Chicago staple of off-beat and counter-culture moved here from Lakeview!
Music
- Sleeping Village
This impressive venue features a variety of acts and a great bar! - LiveWire
Known for metal and post-punk, keep an eye out for the Patrick Swayze shrine. - Alice’s Lounge
This late night dive bar offers karaoke almost every night. - Avondale Music Hall
Hip hop, World Music, Alternative. Every night is a surprise here! - Reed’s Local
This local dive has everything from tarot readings to local singer-songwriters.
Things to Do
- Arabesque
Take some belly dancing classes for exercise or fun! - Clark Richard Park
This park along the river offers a row house, kayak rentals, and a bike course! - Electric Boat Co.
Dreaming of lazing along the Chicago River in your own boat? - Revolution Brewing
Take a tour and enjoy Chicago’s famous indie brewery! - The Artistic Home
An intimate setting for classic and contemporary plays.
Art/Culture
- Hairpin Arts Center
A non-profit, in a historic building, offering studio space for all artists. - Puerto Rican Arts Alliance
Part-museum, this organization showcases folk art from PRC. - Chicago Ceramic Center
Learn a new craft or hone your skills at the wheel or handbuilding. - Arts on Elston
An art gallery displaying local artists and accompanying music. - The Art Colony/Music Factory
Studio rentals, live music, this center has it all for the fine arts!
Transportation
- Blue Line- Belmont
Goes Directly to UIC/O’Hare Airport - Belmont Bus #77
- Diversey Bus #76
- Kimball/Homan Bus #82
Explore Avondale
