Guide to Chicago's Greektown

Chicago's Greektown is one of the smaller ethnic neighborhoods that Chicago has but that does not mean it is lacking quality shops and restaurants. Greektown runs the length of Halsted Avenue between Van Buren and Madison Avenue in the shadow of Chicago's downtown skyscrapers. The bright white and blue colors, temples, statues and pavilions that decorate the neighborhood give the whole area a unique Greek look.

During the day Greektown is full of locals and college students from nearby University of Illinois-Chicago and at night the place is buzzing with downtown night clubbers looking for a bite to eat. Getting to Greektown from downtown is easy and quick. The numbers 20 and 126 buses run right into the heart of the neighborhood. If you are taking the el take the Blue Line and get off at the Jackson/Dearborn stop.

Highlights in Greektown

One of the first things that you will notice walking down Halsted Avenue is the abundance of restaurant, it really is a foodie's paradise. If you are looking fro a place to take a date both Venus and Pegasus are great options. Venus, 820 W. Jackson, is new to the neighborhood and the unique decor, starting with the large nude statue of Venus in the doorway, of the restaurant reminds you of Cyprus, a perfect match for the island cuisine it serves. Make sure you check out the full bar which is shaped like a Greek warship, sails included. Try the traditional mezes which can easily be shared between diners.

Pegasus, 130 S. Halsted, is another great date spot and a popular place for drinks in the summer because of the rooftop bar with a perfect view of the Chicago skyline. The dining room is whitewashed and has a large mural of the Greek Isles, the perfect setting for the authentic Greek fare served up. The portions are large and the menu is varied with an especially good selection of seafood entrees.

A more family friendly location can be found next door at Athena, 212 S. Halsted, which has a large outdoor patio filled with white and blue umbrellas during the winter months. The large entrees of authentic Greek fare will not dissapoint, and of all the restaurants the gyros are best here.

For late night set Mr. Greeks Gyros, 234 S. Halsted, is a favorite fast food stop. The gyros are huge, greasy and cheap which is about all that matters at 3 a.m.

To take care of your sweet tooth head over to the favorite bakery in Greektown Pan Hellenic Pastry Shop, 322 S. Halsted, where everyone behind the counter will make you feel like you stepped into your grandmother's kitchen to steal a cookie. Be sure to try any of the several varieties of baklava and take some cookies to go.

For imported Greek food and goods head over to Athens Grocery and Liquor, 324 S. Halsted, which specializes in Greek olives, wine and cheese. The Athenian Candle Company, 300 S. Halsted, is a great way to round out your Greektown visit. The little shop is full of candles that are made on site, Christian gifts, and some Greek themed decor.