The Nucleus

Clearly there are great places to eat all over the city, but first I want to discuss the "nucleus", Sargent and Ellice Avenue between Arlington and Salter. As far as diversity of ethnic food choices, and value, both for restaurants and markets, nowhere in the city compares.

The sheer number of options for affordable and delicious Vietnamese fare alone, is astounding. Viva, Pho Hoang and KG Saigon (just a block or two west of Arlington) are a few of the available options in the nucleus.

Harmans, on the east side of Sargent Avenue, offers Ethiopian and just next door is La Rica Vicky with Peruvian. The Green Chili serves Pakistani and Indian food, while Nou Eul Tor Korean Restaurant serves. . .well you can probably guess.

Some of the items available at El Izalco

There are many fun little markets and bakeries in the area. El Izalco is the place for all your Mexican and South American needs. Owner Sarah Esparanza is one of the friendliest people you will ever meet, and her curtido (a South American cabbage salad) is sure to tantalize your taste buds. They even have pinatas and everything you need to fill them. 

Stop by the Lisbon Bakery and grab a loaf of water bread, you won't regret it. Head to the Ellice Meat Market for some cured meats. It's all smoked in-house and you can pick up some goose fat for roasting potatoes (though duck fat is truly best).

The smoke room at Ellice meats

Take a stroll up and down the avenues and delight in the smells emanating from the restaurants and bakeries. Peruse the menus and reviews posted on the windows. Need a snack? Pop into India Palace for a samosa or try a spinach and cheese pie from Shawarma Time.

GO FORTH and EAT!