Another chapter of Trash People — the grassroots nonprofit that organizes neighborhood clean-ups and volunteer fairs — has sprouted up in Ukrainian Village. Co-lead Alice Maiterth is helping us get to know the area.
Located in the West Town community area, the neighborhood got its name from the influx of Ukrainian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Residents were largely laborers, some of whom built mansions in nearby Wicker Park. While the area has been gentrified in the last few decades, the neighborhood has remained the heart of the city’s Ukrainian culture, especially during war abroad.
Something to Eat
- Lao Peng You is a BYOB neighborhood spot serving unique Chinese dumplings.
- Tuman’s is a classic tavern serving American fare.
- Sunrise Cafe has been serving up a hearty breakfast for 20 years.
- Kasama is technically outside of Ukrainian Village, but if you’re already in the area, you might as well get in line for brunch.
A pilgrimage to Shit Fountain should be on every Chicagoan’s bucket list. (Flickr)
Something to See
- Shit Fountain is a sculpture meant to encourage dog owners to pick up their pets’ poop.
- With its stunning golden dome and colorful mosaic, Saints Volodymyr & Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church was designed in a Byzantine-Ukrainian style of the 11th–13th centuries.
Something to Do
- The Empty Bottle has a slice of pizza, a beer-shot combo, and a show for $20ish! Chicago Show Calendar founder and City Caster Caroline Patton said it’s among her fav venues in the city.
- Visit the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art for new works from Ukrainian artists and interesting events.
- Go to the Roberto Clemente Skate DIY to skateboard along rails, ramps, and other obstacles.
- Window shop at Salvage One and the other stores on Grand Avenue.
Boundaries of Ukrainian Village and East Village (Google Maps)
