Chinatown Square chinatown

Just south of Downtown is Chicago’s official Chinatown; not to be confused with the collection of Asian shops and restaurants up north on Argyle Street. Chinatown has grown considerably in recent years and a great place to start with your visit is Chinatown Square. This two-story outdoor mall was designed by Harry Weese in 1993. Lots of places to eat, shop and explore with the added bonus of late-night options for dim sum, roast duck and smoothies. Be sure not to neglect wandering Cermak and Wentworth Avenues, the main commercial streets in the area.

Captain Cafe & Bakery; Great spot to enjoy all of your favorite traditional Chinese pastries. Sesame balls, custard egg tarts, moon cakes and sticky rice galore. 2161 s china pl.

Aji Ichiban; Watermelon seeds, dried plums, muscat, lychees, rice candy, melon gummies, candied fish and much more to explore. Samples galore. 2117 china pl.

Lao Sze Chuan; Award winning Sichuan Chinese cuisine with huge menu of interesting items. 2172 s archer.

String Ramen House; Small modern Japanese cafe across from Chinatown Square. Serving freshly made noodles and lots of ramen. 2141 s archer.