Midwest Suggestions (near Fullerton & Pulaski)

Hate to ask, but I know I'll get good responses (as always.)
Let's say you were near Fullerton and Pulaski, but DIDN'T want Mexican food (or any of it's cousins, so to speak.)
If I were by myself, or with someone other than who I'll be there with, I'd be at SdM, FdM, or make the quick trek up to Oaxaquena poste haste. Lula is on my radar, but looking for something I've never tried (plus Lula never really wowed me for the price - I tend to like divey-er spots.) We'll be spending time in this area on several upcoming occasions, and will have a car. Last time we bit the bullet, and went straight up to Sticky Rice. Not that bad of a drive if you know the area. Prolly zip up to Semiramis one time. Just wondering what we're missing that would be closer. Any faves? Ethnic is generally fine, but no Mexican. TIA

Well, Honey 1 is just south of Fullerton on Western, for starters. Traveling in the other direction, there's Depot American Diner, but that's a bit further and, of course there's Brown Sack which, come to think of it, might be just what you are looking for. The first two are GNRs and the last one has just been nominated, so checking it out now will not only get you a good lunch, but also will allow you to comment on it's GNR worthiness. One other spot to cinsider might be CJ's eatery.

Honey 1
2241 N Western Ave
Chicago, IL
772-227-5130

Depot American Diner
5840 W Roosevelt Rd
Chicago, IL 60644
(773) 261-8422

Brown Sack
3706 W. Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
773-661-0675

CJ's Eatery
3839 W Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60651
773-292-0990

I'm a huge fan of both Honey 1 and Brown Sack. Haven't tried the other two stevez suggested, but appreciate the suggestions.

For other options, I'd also add Jimmy's Red Hots, which is just over a mile due south at 4000 W. Grand. If you're willing to drive to Albany Park (Semiramis, 3 miles) or North Center (Sticky Rice, 2.9 miles), there are several options that are closer and get a lot of attention on LTH, including Hot Doug's (1.9 miles), Kuma's (1.7 miles), Smoque (1.8 miles), Urban Belly (1.7 miles), etc. I've only visited Treat (1616 N Kedzie, 1.4 miles) once for brunch, but that also might be an interesting non-Mexican option. Hot Spot (2824 W. Armitage, 1.5 miles) is also better than passable. And, the Philly's Best (1.3 miles) at 2436 N. Milwaukee has proven to be a reliable, quick spot for a decent meal. The last three listed here likely won't lead to mind blowing culinary experiences - - but they are all satisfying and I'd happily return to any of them.

There are also many Polish and Cuban restaurants not too far from where you'll be, but I unfortunately don't have any to recommend. Perhaps other do, if you'd be interested.

seebee wrote:Hate to ask, but I know I'll get good responses (as always.)
Let's say you were near Fullerton and Pulaski, but DIDN'T want Mexican food (or any of it's cousins, so to speak.)

In the reference section, there is a way to create a map through Google that will plot out all of the restaurants mentioned on LTH Forum in a particular area. I have found it to be phenomenal at giving me ideas when I am in an unfamiliar area.

stevez wrote:... of course there's Brown Sack which, come to think of it, might be just what you are looking for.

I started scanning down the GNR's and yes, the Brown Sack sounds like it'll be spot on.
I have to (but hate to) dismiss Honey One as the d/c is a foul/fish/veg- etarian, and is also carrying seebee jr*, and, well, I just know for a fact that me going in elbo deep on a tip / link combo across the table would not be optimal dining viewing for her. Will also have to look into cj's - never been. Great suggestions from all as usual. Again, thanks.

Oh, and Jlawrence01, I know I had seen that thing in the past - thanks for pointing me to it again.

*Main reason why Mexican is out. She's just not into Mexican and Indian these days like she used to be.

Now that you've mentioned that a d/c is a pescaterian, I'll again suggest taking a look at http://www.treatrestaurant.com/menu.html, because it has many veggie friendly options, as well as plenty for the omnivores.

Hmmm.. Smoque is a good bet at 3800 n. Pulaski. Treat is fun, but not that close. What about Thai Aree on Milwaukee? And the Brown Sack is close too.