Deta's Cafe
Some of the gems we select at Tastybeat are a bit rough around the edges, and somehow we love them all the more for their unexpected rewards. Deta's Café in Rogers Park is one such gem. When you walk into this storefront café, you won't be met with anything fancy--no luxe décor or sleek artwork to be sure. In fact, Deta's Café takes casual to a whole new level. But this no-nonsense interior of just three tables is home to some of the best burek you'll find anywhere. Burek is a traditional savory pastry from the region of the former Yugoslavia, hand-rolled and filled with some combination of cheese, spinach, potato, onion, and beef. The burek at Deta's Café is perfectly delectable.
Café owner and native Montenegrin Deta Lekic will feed you burek to your heart's content (watch her make burek). The café is her pride and joy, and don't be surprised if she joins you at your table to share stories of her homeland (and remind you to clean your plate just like you're family). In addition to the exceptional burek, the Greek, Mediterranean, and cabbage salads are all scrumptious. And depending on Deta's mood the day or evening you visit, you might be treated to other tasty dishes.
This modest spot is most definitely a gem in our book and we hope you will add it to yours. But do be forewarned: Deta will hardly let you leave her café until you are veritably stuffed!
Happy Eating
Tastybeat
www.tastybeat.com
Deta's Cafe
7555 N. Ridge Blvd. (map)
Chicago, IL 60645
773-973-1505
Open everyday 10am-10pm
(Deta rests on Sunday, but her good friend Enisa will be there to take care of you)
