While you are at the Argyle Lunar New Year Parade Saturday, explore the North Side historic district.
Off the Argyle Red Line stop in Uptown, the area was transformed by Chinese immigrants as well as Cambodian and Vietnamese refugees in the ‘70s, who helped create the business district we know today.
Anti-Asian hate crimes and pandemic business struggles prompted organizer Sany Nguyễn to co-found Celebrate Argyle in 2021, an initiative to bring Chicagoans to support small businesses. She shared her recs along with City Cast Chicago executive producer and Uptown resident Simone Alicea.
Something to Eat
- 🍜 There's no shortage of pho in the area, but the broth at Pho 888 is rich.
- 🥪 Ba Le Sandwiches is perfect for a quick banh mi bite. Grab macrons or check out the mini Vietnamese market while you're there.
- 🍚 Want to get our of your pad thai comfort zone? Try Immm Rice & Beyond. Props to the City Cast listener who put us on!
- 🇨🇱 There's also a cluster of Latin American food: You won’t regret the Chilean empanadas from Don Pablo's Kitchen and Bakeshop.
- 🇻🇪 El Rincón De Fabio slings out Venezuelan eats, and every visit feels like a party.
- 🌟 Kie-Gol-Lanee is a Michelin Bib Gourmand Oaxacan spot.
Something to Drink
- ☕ Between the coffee and ambiance, First Sip Cafe is a neighborhood favorite for a reason.
- 🧋 Top Tao Tea has all the bubble tea combos you can dream of!
- 🩷 Who said you can't drink your desserts? Bambu Desserts has all the slurpable sweet drinks.
Something to See
- 🎨 Murals! Asia on Argyle is full of beautiful murals from local and nationally known artists. You’ll see a mix of cultural and historical pieces that are beautifully curated for this neighborhood.
Something to Do
- 🛒 Pick up international snacks and hard-to-find ingredients at Tai Nam Food Market.
- 💄 Do your next self-care haul at Lynamy Beauty Supply.
- 🪴 Qideas has plants and kitchen supplies for sale.
- 👋 Get involved with the Chinese Mutual Aid Association, which has been serving immigrants in Uptown since 1981.
