This week our Neighborhood Tour was in the Back Of The Yards and New City part of town. You might have to go out of your way a bit to look...but a good deal of history and hidden gems can be uncovered in this area of the South Side. Click for the details on all the spots you saw on this week's segment:
KEVIN'S HAMBURGER HEAVEN
554 W Pershing Rd.
773.924.5771
www.kevinshamburgerheaven.com
Simply put, one of those Chicago classics that this city is known for. And, it's cheap.
The "One And Only" costs just $3.69, and the enormous t-bone steak ensemble is $10.39.
They also have a location on Western Ave. which is more of a sit-down spot with a dining room and a bar! If that wasn't enough, the Western location has karaoke Wednesday thru Sunday!
Both locations are open 24-7.
SPORTS NOVELTIES & PREMIUMS
4855 S Racine Ave.
773.247.7000
Don't worry, that red brick building that looks like a factory or a machine shop literally does house this Chicago sports shop. Next time you're on your way to a Sox game, you can gear up here for MUCH lower prices than at the stadiums. And don't fret, Cubs folks, because as you saw in the segment, they've loads of Northside paraphernalia, as well. Cheapest prices on jerseys and caps I've ever seen in town, and a huge selection. You can set yourself up with green hats/boas/shirts for the annual South Side parade, too.
COBBLESTONES BAR & GRILL
514 W Pershing Rd.
773.624.3630
www.cobblestonesmenu.com
You might not notice it if you're whizzing down Pershing Rd, but that's part of the charm. Not-so-obvious spots are what I love most, and Cobblestones is a new favorite.
Prices are great:
Appetizers: $2.50+
Sandwiches: $4.00+
Muffulettas: $8.95 (big enough to share w/ someone else)
Pastas: around $8.00
Entrees: $9.00+
Beer/cocktail prices are pretty cheap, too...even on game days, and there's a back patio for outdoor hanging.
If you're going to a Sox game and call ahead, you can park in their lot for free, hop inside for a bite and/or drink, then walk over to the ballpark.
They're closed early (8pm) on weeknights, and closed on weekends...EXCEPT on home Sox dates, when they're open plenty late to do your post-game drinking/eating.
And though there isn't much anymore to see, if you're a history nerd (like me)...the Union Stockyard Gate still stands, and is the only thing left from the Stockyards' integral part of Chicago's history. The plaques supply photos and a thorough history of the yards, plus the Fallen Firemen Memorial is here, too.
