Lincoln Square Food Tour: East Meets West in Chicago
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to comfortably walk short distances and stand for tastings over a few hours.
Overview
Discover Chicago’s Lincoln Square through its unique blend of German and Asian flavors on this private food tour. Enjoy delicious bites, local stories, and a vibrant cultural experience.
Lincoln Square: West Meets East
Old World Favorites and New Culinary Arrivals
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About This Adventure
Explore enchanting Lincoln Square, where European ambiance mingles with a tapestry of Mediterranean and Central Asian culinary delights.
Duration and Distance
3 Hours, 1.5 miles walking
About
- Experience the open air charm of sidewalk cafés and a bustling public square.
- Find an epicurean treasure in a specialty market named one of Financial Times 50 Greatest Food Stores in the World.
- Savor more recent tastes that arrived post-communist bloc, including the flavors of the Silk Road and the Balkan Peninsula.
- Discover a piece of global history, hiding in plain sight.
- Walk the streets where Little Germany, New Greektown and Koreatown converge.
- Enjoy dessert in the perfect spot to linger, to shop or to enjoy a glass of wine.
Menu
Hearty and flavorful foods tell the story of changing demographics in a one of Chicago's favorite neighborhoods.
- Artisanal German and Polish Sausages
- Tangy Greek Rice and Herb Stuffed Grape Leaves
- Kyrgyz Beef Dumplings with Korean Carrot Salad
- Balkan Flaky Cheese Pie and Beef Sausages
- Freshly Made Gelato in a Fun, Quirky Shop
- Rich, Chocolaty Austrian Sachertorte
We strive to accommodate special diets. You will be able to indicate your needs during the booking process.
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance
This popular private tour fills up quickly, so reserving your spot early is recommended.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect to walk a few blocks between stops; comfortable footwear will enhance your experience.
Notify Dietary Restrictions
Let the tour company know ahead of time about any allergies or dietary preferences to tailor your experience.
Bring a Camera
Lincoln Square offers picturesque street scenes perfect for food and neighborhood photography.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels in neighborhood parks
- Common city birds like pigeons and cardinals
History
Lincoln Square originated as a German immigrant enclave and today reflects a multicultural mix, especially with growing Asian communities blending culinary traditions.
Conservation
Local businesses focus on sustainable sourcing and reducing food waste, enhancing both the community’s health and environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for navigating neighborhood streets and short walking distances between stops.
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so layering helps you stay comfortable.
spring specific
Sun Protection (Hat/Sunglasses)
Protect yourself during outdoor portions of the tour on sunny summer days.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the vibrant neighborhood and delicious dishes throughout the tour.