(originally published in print for The Torch in March 2024)
Whether you are living on campus or are a commuter, one is always up for a good bite to eat. Especially living in a city as big and diverse as Chicago the food out here is delicious.Well, you are in luck because I have gathered a list of my favorite Chicago recommendations for any Laker student or Chicagoan! From South Side restaurants to North Side bistros, these restaurants will be easily accessible and close to campus. For those new to the city looking to explore, traverse and have their palettes satisfied, the following restaurants may be the guide to new adventures.
RYO SUSHI
62 E Madison St.
Chicago, IL 60602
United States
RYO Sushi is a great spot to go with friends for dinner, lunch or even a quick snack. The atmosphere is leisurely and the staff is always friendly. For college student trying to stay budget friendly, RYO’s sushi rolls are more affordable compared to other Chicago sushi spots, especially for the location being right in the Loop. RYO Sushi remains close to campus, they normally take walk-ins and always have a table open. With friends, you guys can all get different rolls and then try them out. It’s a fun way to try out new sushi rolls that normally you wouldn’t get. My recommendation would be the Valentines Roll. Not only is it cute because of its heart shaped design (pictured below), but it’s tasty as well.
5/5 recommend
Los Gallos
4211 W 26th St
Chicago, IL 60623
United States
Los Gallos holds authentic Mexican food. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, so one can most certainly find something that intrigues the pallet. The atmosphere here, again very chill, with a friendly staff as well! Los Gallos is located in the South Side of Chicago, not too far south, one bus (60) and a train ride (Pink Line) away from Roosevelt’s campus. My recommendation would be a Torta de Milanesa without tomatoes, add avocado!
4/5 recommend (pricing could be better)
Iron Age Korean Steak House
1265 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
United States
If one has never had Korean BBQ, now is the chance! Iron Age holds a great atmosphere and is the perfect place to have a night out with friends. The Korean Steak House is located in Wicker Park, just hop on the Blue Line and get off on Damen. The pricing for the amount of food you get is great, leaving you wanting leftovers–another college student budget friendly restaurant. Iron Age’s prices start at $25 per person, but with an emphasis on the all l you can eat style, making up for the price. They do also have gluten free options here, this is something I have been more concerned of over the past few years, as my best friend has a gluten allergy. So if you are the best friend or have a best friend with that, this is a perfect place to try out as well. My recommendation is to just try out all the food (unless allergic) but kimchi does taste better when eaten with bulgogi. *Tip*
4/5 recommend
I hope all students can try out at least one of these local and affordable restaurants, and if not, to check out the communities where these places are located. These culturally dense neighborhoods have a variety of options with the ones mentioned as just a few! More recommendations are to come, stay tuned!
J’s Journal 