Food Markets: August 2008 Archives
This Chicago gem is truly hidden. Tucked inside the bustling La Unica Food Mart at Clark and Devon, you'll find a delightful sit-down eatery by making your way down the aisles and heading left at the freezers. For over 30 years La Unica's cafeteria-style restaurant has been serving authentic Cuban, Colombian, Peruvian, and Mexican fare. When you visit, expect to order from a Spanish language menu and enjoy generous and scrumptious portions with other friendly patrons.
On our most recent visit, Tastybeat chatted with the Shibattas, a Japanese-Columbian couple who have been coming to La Unica for 20 years. The Shibattas always order their favorite: perfectly-cooked carne asada served with black beans and fried plantain. And Mr. Shibatta declares it a crime if you leave without trying the cafe con leche! And we agree. It's spot on.
Tastybeat also recommends the classic Cuban sandwich. This hearty specialty includes generous layers of ham and roasted pork with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It's toasted in a sandwich press until the cheese melts and the Cuban bread is perfectly browned. And for you veggie lovers out there, Tastybeat suggests ordering the black or red beans with tostones (fried green plantains). Excellente! Whatever you choose, you're guaranteed a very tasty and satisfying meal.
Buen Probecho!
Tastybeat
www.tastybeat.com
La Unica
1515 w. Devon (map)
Chicago
773-274-7788
Hours
Monday- Saturday 8:00am-9:00pm
Sunday- 8:00am- 5:00pm
Want to feel like a kid again? Visit Dulce Del Sol Landia, a colorful wonderland of Mexican candies on Clark Street. From the piñatas hanging overhead to the more than 100 varieties of Mexican candy that surround you, explore the many sweet flavors of Mexico!
And while your inner child is having a ball, your adult taste buds will not be neglected. At Dulce Del Sol Landia, flavors range from mango to hot pepper to watermelon to dulce de leche. You will find a wide variety of candies including Mexican chocolate bars, hard candy, taffy, and gum. The lollipops are especially fun. Tastybeat found a mug of beer lollipops, colorful finger lollipops complete with finger prints, ice cream sundae pops, and for the adventurous- chicken-flavored lollipops!
Have a good time!
Dulce Del Sol Landia
6718 N. Clark (map)
Chicago, IL
773-465-5108
See dulcelandia.com for all 8 Chicago locations
Hours
Monday-Friday 10:00am-8:00pm
Saturday 9:00am-8:00pm
Sunday 11:00am-7:00pm
Tomato season has officially arrived, and with it,
Simple Gourmet's yummy yellow tomato gazpacho. Hidden away on a quiet street in Evanston is Simple Gourmet. Debbie Karhanek, this market's energetic owner, offers a wide array of meals and treats with a focus on simplicity and seasonal produce. Tastybeat highly recommends Karhanek's thick and tasty gazpacho. It bursts with freshness and just-right tanginess. And Simple Gourmet's gorgeous and delicious summer tomato tart is the perfect accompaniment. For a sweet finish, grab a couple of oatmeal cherry pecan cookies.
Simple Gourmet
1459 Elmwood Avenue (map)
Evanston, IL 60201
P: 847.332.2100
Hours: 9-6 Monday-Saturday
