Where the locals eat
At a time when hip restaurants openings are very common, the bare bone spots serve the neighborhood type places are not. Sure theres plenty of taquerias that open up but unfortunately 7 out of 10 end up closing not to long after. So I feel like it's my duty to support places like Cafe Central which have been around a while and remain to do the same thing as when they opened back in the 70's. Chicago avenue might have changed but this place has not. Food and all.
Locals favorite in Ukrainian Village (Winter is Coming)
Despite being featured on Check Please! I don't think many non-locals make it into this Puerto Rican favorite. Every time I've been in the diners that were also inside definitely knew the ladies behind the counter. Speaking of those ladies they do all the cooking here and they do it well. It's cafeteria style Puerto Rican but some things like the jibaritos get made fresh upon ordering. The best time to go here is on the weekend when their lechon style pork is on the menu. One of the best jibaritos in the city is made using it as the base. Mixed with melted cheese and an extra garlicky fried plantain that acts as the bread this isn't for those looking to slim the wasteline. Good thing it's only weekends.
Lechon Pork Jibarito
Another way to enjoy their delicious roast pork is as a plate. It comes in two different sizes and I always recommend going large as it's great for leftovers. This mixta plate below includes a wonderful stewed beans recipe that warms me up especially well when mixed with the yellow rice I choose to go with it. It's a true taste of the neighborhood. Go get some before it's no more. We all die one day.
Roasted Pork Mixta Plate
Cafe Central
1437 W Chicago Ave #1
Chicago, IL 60642
(312) 243-6776
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