Writing about the old chili parlors got me thinking about a lot of the other good old places that I sort of take for granted. Kind of like the Busy Bee, I just assume they'll be around forever. Here's a fairly random list of old restaurants that I rather like for one reason or another. I think each has been around for over 50 years. I know I'd be sad if any of these places closed. Any other suggestions? Lou Mitchell's 565 W Jackson Blvd 312-939-3111 A classic luncheonette famous for their breakfasts, one of the very best breakfasts in Chicago. Nearly everything is made from scratch. In its own way, one of the best restaurants in the city. Manny's 1141 S Jefferson St 312-939-2855 Manny's is always mentioned as having the best corned beef in the city (this is probably true but does anyone remember Braverman's? -- talk about a good old place!). Even if you take away the corned beef (God forbid!) this is still one of the great places in Chicago. An old style Jewish steam table cafeteria. How many places in the city still serve rice pudding and stewed prunes? Valois 1518 E 53rd St 773-667-0647 One of the oldest restaurants in the city (unfortunately remodeled). "See Your Food." What more can you ask for? Some of the offerings (short ribs, pot roast, some breakfast items) are not too bad and are quite cheap. Another old style steam table cafeteria, usually crowded. Subject of a U of Chicago doctoral dissertation (turned into the book, "Slim's Table"). Ramova Grill 3510 S Halsted St 847-9058 Somewhat depressing Bridgeport chili parlor but it has real character. The chili is okay but nothing else I've eaten here has been that memorable. Still, I like this place a lot. Berghoff 17 W Adams St 312-427-3170 Not just for tourists. One of the best interiors in Chicago (but never let them seat you downstairs). Decent food, decent value, nothing spectacular, nothing terrible. Menu is getting a little thin on the German standards though. The classic stand-up barroom is even better than the restaurant. Have a weissbier on draft or a shot of the 14 year old Berghoff bourbon (bottled by Stitzel- Weller). If this place ever closed I'd miss it greatly (and so would my out of town relatives). Jim's Hot Dogs 1320 S Halsted St (at Maxwell) 312-666-0533 Serves the definitive Maxwell Street Polish 24 hours a day. Curbside seating (i.e., no seats). This is where I take out of town guests who want to see the real Chicago (atmosphere is best at night but it's not for the squeamish). Just not the same since they tore down most of Maxwell Street though. Better get there before they tear it down too.
Chicago, IL