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Hidden Gems (Restaurants) in Chicago

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Tango Sur
3763 N. Southport Ave. Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 477-5466
Though this Argentinean BYOB paradise can get lost in the mass of eateries in the Southport Corridor it should never be dismissed. The moderately priced restaurant offers lunch and dinner specials that will leave diners begging for more. Check out the Parillada - a mix of short ribs, chorizo, blood sausage and sweetbreads or share the delicious Deep-fried Empanadas. Tango Sur offers a great atmosphere to catch up with friends or a romantic getaway with your sweetie. So grab a bottle of wine and treat yourself to a delicious meal to remember. Hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-11:30pm; Sun 12pm-10:30pm
Happy Chef Dim Sum House
2164 S Archer Ave Chicago, IL 60616-1514
(312) 808-3689
If you really want to go on an adventure, head to Chinatown for some Dim Sum at Happy Chef Dim Sum House. Sneaky has yet to meet the “Happy Chef,” but we are comfortable recommending this hidden gem where the pieces cost anywhere from $1 to $3, so you won’t be breaking the bank anytime soon. Some Sneaky suggestion so you can do it up Dim Sum style; Steamed Rice Roll Stuffed with Beef, Shrimp Dumplings…or if you want to get all Blade Runner up in there, get an order of the chicken feet marinated in Hoisin sauce! Hours: Mon-Sun 9am-2am
Half Shell, Inc.
676 W Diversey Pkwy. Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 549-1773
Many of the best restaurants and bars around the world don’t look like much from the outside. But, that doesn’t mean they’re not considered a hidden gem to those who know the deal. That seems to be the case with Half Shell, Inc on Diversey. Don’t be put off by the dive bar exterior; inside the seafood cuisine is sensational. Among the hidden treasures are the crab legs, fried shrimp and an array of burgers. If you go searching or just happen to come upon this spot, definitely stop and indulge in the best-kept secret on Diversey. Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-10:30pm; Sun 12pm-10:30pm
Meli Cafe & Juice Bar
301 S Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 454-0748
This chill cafe is located in the heart of Greek Town and although the name is Greek for “honey” the menu is not solely Greek focused. You can order from a variety of delicious options like the Tomato, Basil & Ricotta Frittata (with sun-dried tomato, fresh basil, and ricotta) or the Crab Cake Benedict to popular lunch dishes like the Red Pepper Panini or Chipotle Chicken Wrap. If you are in the mood for something lighter, Meli has a variety of coffees, teas, fresh squeezed juices, juice blends (like the Celery, Apple, Carrot Juice), Smoothies (like the Mango Blast or Vanilla Snow) or if you’re in a hurry, grab an invigorating shot of wheatgrass to jumpstart your day! Hours: Mon-Sun 6am-4pm
El Cubanito
2555 N Pulaski Road Chicago, IL 60639
(773) 235-2555
If you blink you may miss this hidden gem located in Logan Square. However, the sure giveaway is the line of people spilling out the door around lunchtime, waiting patiently to order a legendary Cuban sandwich. If you are in the mood to dine-in, you will be fighting for the only four available bar stools in the family-owned joint. Sneaky suggests you grab your magical sandwich and head for the hills! The average sandwich costs $4. Hours: Breakfast and Lunch seven days a week. Family opens the door when they are good and ready.
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