Brighton Park Guide
We hope you can join us on February 13th for our Valentine’s POP-Up Market. In case you are not familiar with the Brighton Park neighborhood, we have put together a guide of our favorite establishments. Please check out these local, small businesses.
*CLOSED* BUTTERDOUGH 3452 S Western Ave. Chicago, IL www.butterdoughtogo.com
Break your fast with a “from scratch” Instagram worthy croissant, donut, or sandwich and a coffee from this independently owned bakery cafe. Place your order on-line and they will run it out to your car on arrival.
PACO’S TACOS 4311 S Archer Ave. Chicago, IL facebook.com/pacostacoschicago
A few doors down from Watra is Paco’s Tacos. Come hungry and order everything. These made to order tacos are generously filled with fresh ingredients. I recommend the carnitas and the splendid pollo guisado. Be sure to get the guacamole, a horchata, and plenty of napkins.
LIQUORAMA 4430 S Kedzie Ave. Chicago, IL www.liquorama.biz
This Brighton Park spot has been family owned and operated for 40 years. Although known as the “Tequila Oasis” with 300 varieties of tequila- craft beer lovers, wine connoisseurs, and craft spirits drinkers will have plenty to select from.
DULCELANDIA 4616 S Kedzie Ave. Chicago, IL www.dulcelandia.com
Pinatas and candy from Mexico? Yes, please! The variety will astound you- everything from Day of the Dead sugar skulls, gummies, lollipops, and marshmallows. Maybe a quarantine pinata smash will turn into the new TikTok craze.
CAFE EL MESON 4631 S Kedzie Ave. Chicago, IL www.cafemeson.com
This family owned cafe is a little haven on a busy road. Order yourself an agua fresca, air fried empanadas, and one of their signature sandwiches. Grab a free book or game if you're staying inside. Super friendly owners make this a lovely experience.
CRAWFORD STEEL GRAFFITI WALLS 3141 W 36th Pl. Chicago, IL
Crawford Steel allows graffiti artists to paint on their walls. The International Meeting of Styles which hosts a yearly event brings the graffiti community together to showcase their talents. Swing by and see what these talented street artists have been up to.
LEON’S BBQ 4550 S Archer Ave. Chicago, IL www.theoriginalleonsbbq.com
If your taste buds are craving BBQ, this is the spot for you! This newer location offers BBQ staples of ribs, hot links, and chicken. Fried chicken and shrimp are also delicious options. Get a little of everything to share with your pod.
BALZEKAS MUSEUM OF LITHUANIAN CULTURE 6500 S Pulaski Rd Chicago, IL www.balzekasmuseum.org
We find small museums delightful. Check the website to see if/when this area museum will open following COVID safety restrictions. Founded in 1966, Balzekas is dedicated to the preservation of Lithuanian culture. See everything from Folk Art, jewelry, Easter Eggs, traditional costumes, as well as an exhibit of photographs and documents detailing the tragedies after WWII in Lithuania. In the children’s museum there is a replica of a traditional Lithuanian homestead and Medieval castle. The “No Home To Go To” Exhibit is on our list of powerful history lessons. $9 adult admission.
D’NUEZ 4125 S Archer Ave. www.dnuez.com
Craving a giant burger? Mexican food or a coffee pick-me-up? Stop by D’Nuez for a Cafe de Olla a delicious concoction of coffee, cinnamon, and sugar. Then opt for one of their Jumbo Burgers or perhaps Al Pastor Tacos. Plenty of veggie options are available as well.