Established between 1889 and 1928 (with ongoing renovations) Chicago’s Chinatown has had both a rocky and colorful history. When the first immigrants arrived in the city they experienced intense racial discrimination but soon managed to carve out a unique place for themselves in this new world. Over the years Chinatown has become a favorite of Chicagoans and is a top tourist destination for city-dwellers and those from the far-flung lands of the Chicago suburbs.
The area offers numerous gift shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and Traditional Chinese Medicine stores in addition to a multitude of other Chinese owned businesses. Mandarin and Cantonese speakers are commonly found in the area (though when I tried to practice my Mandarin the shop owners chose to respond in English!).
Located on the south side of the city, this district is often referred to as “Old Chinatown” with newer attractions located within close proximity. On my most recent visit I sadly discovered a lot of businesses have closed and I didn’t spot any little old ladies in straw hats sitting on the sidewalks trying to sell me baby turtles as they’d done in previous years.
Though Chinatown’s changed, there’s still a lot to see around the area. One of the best things about Chinatown is the food! There are countless restaurants to choose from and one of my favorite things to do is stop in for dim sum. Visitors can pick from a delicious (and sometimes weirdly fascinating) array of small tasty dishes.
Another great thing about Chinatown–authentic bubble tea or 珍珠奶茶 (pearl milk tea) which actually originated in Taiwan but has gained popularity in China and the U.S. Bubble tea can be found in a variety of flavors, my favorite is the Green tea with bubbles. At a little tea shop I also found tea eggs, a 7-eleven specialty in Taiwan.
Some of the best restaurants in the area include Phoenix, Three Happiness, Lao Sze Chuan, and Happy Chef Dim Sum House.
If you’re ever in Chicago, be sure to stop by Chinatown and experience one of the city’s special treasures.