Only one U.S. neighborhood made it into the top 10 of Time Out’s World’s Coolest Neighborhoods list this year, and it’s in Chicago. Avondale ranked No. 5 globally, winning praise for its hidden bars, unique shops, and global food scene.
Other U.S. spots on the list were Red Hook (Brooklyn), Little River (Miami), and Clarksville (Austin), but Avondale stood out as the highest-ranked.
Why Avondale is Special
Avondale reflects the real spirit of Chicago. It mixes cultures—Eastern Europe meets Latin America—with lively streets, great music, and food from around the world at affordable prices.
Food & Drinks to Try
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Start your morning with Colombian coffee at Magnifico Coffee Roasters.
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Try sweet treats at Loaf Lounge (yes, the chef worked on The Bear!).
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Grab steamed buns at Joong Boo Market or taste an epic burger at Kuma’s Corner.
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Visit Parachute HiFi, where you can eat Korean-American dishes while browsing vinyl records.
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Stop by Chief O’Neill’s Pub for live Irish music and cozy vibes.
Nightlife & Fun
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Catch live shows at Sleeping Village, which doubles as a coffee shop in the daytime.
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Go bowling at Avondale Bowl, an old-school spot with modern cocktails.
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Sip craft beer at Revolution Brewing, Illinois’ largest brewery.
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Explore art at the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance.
If you’re still up late, check out Podlasie Club, a cool electronic music bar with Polish roots, or head to The Alley, Chicago’s legendary punk and biker shop. For a quirky touch, don’t miss Bric-a-Brac Records, linked to The Brewed, a horror-themed café full of 80s nostalgia.
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