Greektown Culture & Food Walking Tour
Chicago’s Greektown, though small, is full of history and culture, packs a mighty punch when it comes to world-class food and nightlife just West of the Loop. After all, Chicago’s old Greektown was the main attraction for Greeks on American soil. Numerous Greek restaurants, cafes and shops line Halsted Street from Monroe to street to Van Buren. To get to Greektown, continue west on Washington to Halsted, then turn south on Halsted. Follow us on a tour in which our most experienced tour guide will help navigate you through Greektown, tell you all about its history, culture and tradition. In case you get hungry during the tour, we will stop and sample some great Greek food. Each restaurant in Greektown is unique, with the common thread of authentic food in a fun, welcoming environment. We will make this trip a very exciting and memorable experience for you!
Tour Highlights:
SPECIAL NOTICE: This tour is available in both Walking Only or Walking & All Food Tasting option.
Tour Highlights:
- Greek Island
- Athenian Candle Co
- Meli Cafe & Juice Bar
- Artopolis
- National Hellenic Museum
SPECIAL NOTICE: This tour is available in both Walking Only or Walking & All Food Tasting option.
1. Greek Islands (200 S. Halsted St)
Since 1971, the owners stay true to the founding principles of great food, great service, and value here at Greek Islands. This restaurant is a popular place for romantic dinners, fun get together and even family reunions! Start the tour here to fill up on some great Greek food. You’ll notice the generous servings, welcoming hospitality and have a fun experience. A favorite appetizer is their Flaming Saganaki– a show in of itself! And if going in a big group, opt for a family menu where a multi course will be served. Regardless of what you order, know that the use products shipped from Greece and use the highest quality extra virgin olive oil, superior wines the best cheeses, herbs, and seafood. (picture: flaming saganaki (Greek cheese))
Since 1971, the owners stay true to the founding principles of great food, great service, and value here at Greek Islands. This restaurant is a popular place for romantic dinners, fun get together and even family reunions! Start the tour here to fill up on some great Greek food. You’ll notice the generous servings, welcoming hospitality and have a fun experience. A favorite appetizer is their Flaming Saganaki– a show in of itself! And if going in a big group, opt for a family menu where a multi course will be served. Regardless of what you order, know that the use products shipped from Greece and use the highest quality extra virgin olive oil, superior wines the best cheeses, herbs, and seafood. (picture: flaming saganaki (Greek cheese))
2. Athenian Candle Co. (300 S. Halsted St)
After a filling meal, take a leisurely stroll south on Halsted St. down to the Athenian Candle Co. The Athenian Candle Co. is a three generation, family-owned business established over 90 years ago. Founded by Themistocles and Efthimia Godelas, the family tradition has stayed alive as the only original Chicago Greek Town proprietorship existing on Halsted Street today. The company continues under Thopmas and Jean (Godelas) Paspalas and their three children. Athenian Candle serves the liturgical needs of the Greek and Orthodox communities locally and throughout the United States, as well as churches of all demonimations. At this shop, they manufacture a variety of hand-dipped tapered candles in house. Pick up a few to take home to set the mood!
After a filling meal, take a leisurely stroll south on Halsted St. down to the Athenian Candle Co. The Athenian Candle Co. is a three generation, family-owned business established over 90 years ago. Founded by Themistocles and Efthimia Godelas, the family tradition has stayed alive as the only original Chicago Greek Town proprietorship existing on Halsted Street today. The company continues under Thopmas and Jean (Godelas) Paspalas and their three children. Athenian Candle serves the liturgical needs of the Greek and Orthodox communities locally and throughout the United States, as well as churches of all demonimations. At this shop, they manufacture a variety of hand-dipped tapered candles in house. Pick up a few to take home to set the mood!
3. Meli Cafe & Juice Bar (301 S. Halsted St.)
If you’re up for a slight pick me up, cross the street and check out Meli Café & Juice Bar. They serve up some amazing breakfasts and brunch (you should come back for!), but their juice bar is especially good for a fresh and tasty drink to go. Made with fresh, seasonal fruits, their extensive drink list makes it hard to choose which drink to order. But regardless of what you pick, you can be sure it’s made fresh with pure ingredients. If you’re a coffee fan, you’ll also appreciate their espresso bar too!
If you’re up for a slight pick me up, cross the street and check out Meli Café & Juice Bar. They serve up some amazing breakfasts and brunch (you should come back for!), but their juice bar is especially good for a fresh and tasty drink to go. Made with fresh, seasonal fruits, their extensive drink list makes it hard to choose which drink to order. But regardless of what you pick, you can be sure it’s made fresh with pure ingredients. If you’re a coffee fan, you’ll also appreciate their espresso bar too!
4. Artopolis (306 S. Halsted St.)
Another favorite Greektown spot for baked goods. Artopolis is made up the Greek word "Artos" for bread and "Polis" for town ...hence, a wonderful bakery. For centuries, the ancient Greeks believed that bread was the beginning for all great meals. It makes sense as Artopolis has plenty of bread to compliment your meals. Dine is or take it to go, you will find fresh baked breads and Greek pastries like baklava and cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth! (picture: loukoumades - Greek fried dough)
Another favorite Greektown spot for baked goods. Artopolis is made up the Greek word "Artos" for bread and "Polis" for town ...hence, a wonderful bakery. For centuries, the ancient Greeks believed that bread was the beginning for all great meals. It makes sense as Artopolis has plenty of bread to compliment your meals. Dine is or take it to go, you will find fresh baked breads and Greek pastries like baklava and cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth! (picture: loukoumades - Greek fried dough)
5. National Hellenic Museum (333 S. Halsted St)
Though not necessarily food related but definitely one to visit to really appreciate the community. The National Hellenic Museum is America’s only national institution that interprets the American experience through the history of Greek immigrants and the contributions of Greek Americans while celebrating their rich Greek history and culture from ancient times to the modern Greek American experience. Definitely take your time walking through and be sure to check out the upstairs exhibit!
Though not necessarily food related but definitely one to visit to really appreciate the community. The National Hellenic Museum is America’s only national institution that interprets the American experience through the history of Greek immigrants and the contributions of Greek Americans while celebrating their rich Greek history and culture from ancient times to the modern Greek American experience. Definitely take your time walking through and be sure to check out the upstairs exhibit!