When you think of the culinary heart of Wicker Park, I’m guessing the "Six Corners" intersection of Milwaukee, Damen, and North Avenue is what comes to mind. However, if you are looking for the best Wicker Park restaurants, I’m here to vouch for Division Street as the neighborhood's hottest and most diverse restaurant strip.
While I still love the late-night tamales from Picante, Division Street has evolved into a powerhouse of Michelin-recognized spots and unique international flavors. Here are the top contenders pulling me to Division Street nowadays:
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Replacing the old guard on the street is Mama Delia, a stunning Spanish Sherry bar and restaurant that has redefined dining in Wicker Park. It captures that classy bohemian vibe perfectly.
Mama Delia is part restaurant, part gourmet market. Their wine and sherry list is extensive, featuring bottles you won't find anywhere else in the Midwest. While the atmosphere is high-end, the food remains approachable yet sophisticated. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a high-energy dinner with friends.
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If you’re craving that New Orleans soul, look no further than Ina Mae Tavern. Led by James Beard-semifinalist Chef Brian Jupiter, this spot brings authentic NOLA flavors to the heart of Chicago.
The vibe here is "keep it simple, keep it spicy." It’s soulful, vibrant, and exactly what the Wicker Park restaurant scene needs.
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Oh man, what can I say about 5411 other than: how do you decide which empanada to order?
The founders grew up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and they’ve put their heart and soul into perfecting these recipes. 5411 started as a food truck in 2012 and became so popular they now have multiple locations across Chicago. Their spot on the 1600 block of Division Street is a local staple.
Now you’ve got the inside scoop, so get out to Wicker Park and explore Division Street for your weekend binging! Once you’ve finished your food exploration, head up to North Ave and join us at Chicago Food & City Tours where we feature all of Chicago's best hidden gems on tours such as the Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour and the Gateway to the West Loop Food Tour.
Gina Schammel is a veteran of the Chicago culinary scene with over a decade of experience in food tourism and hospitality. As the Sales & Private Events Director at Chicago Food & City Tours, Gina has curated thousands of culinary experiences for locals and visitors alike.
A recognized local expert, Gina serves as an Official Ambassador for Choose Chicago and sits on the Associate Board for Growing Home, an organization dedicated to organic farming and job training in Chicago. Her deep ties to the city’s restaurant industry allow her to provide insider access and "Grub Guides" that go beyond the typical tourist traps.
When she’s not designing the city's next big food event, you can find her grocery shopping for seasonal ingredients, exploring the pasta menu at Eataly, or grabbing a vintage cocktail at Gold Star Bar.
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