Rapidito

-Grubbing in Chicago  
Colombian Street Eats

It's becoming harder and harder to find restaurant reports on places that aren't promoted by an agency. Maybe thats what the people want but it sure as hell aint what I enjoy when it comes to reading about food. I want to learn about the lesser known spots thus I should of had this post ready to go last year. That said when you're a one man team trying to tackle all the spots that get no pub love, it takes some time. Rapidito opened at least a year ago and seems to have fully found their groove. Their location on Diversey right near the Lincoln Park and Lakeview border seems to be working out well.

Gourmet Colombian Street Eats in Lincoln Park

Inside has the feel of a coffee lounge and Rapidito is always serving up Colombian style coffee for you to enjoy. I've seen people lounging with their computers on visits. If you're just looking for a quick snack while you sip your morning Joe try one of their excellent baked empanadas which seem to pack more flavor than the average version I've come across.

Baked Empanada

Rapidito puts their own little touches on popular Colombian street eats. Some of the items might sound unappealing at first but once you bite into them you'll be sold pretty quickly. I know I was. My favorite bite to eat from here are the salchipapas. This popular street snack is found throughout Latin America. Typically made with fries and sausages mixed together with a special mayo based sauce. Rapidito takes theirs a step up with creole baked potatoes and quail hard boiled eggs mixed with smoked beef links. The mayo based sauce on the side is addicting. Hangover food for the gods.

Salchipapas

Another interesting option are the arepizzas. These are a breed of both arepas and pizza. Best described as a corn flatbread, they layer toppings on top as opposed to in the middle. The Hawaiian Oinker inlcudes pineapple, smoked ham, cheese, crusted potato chips and the signature pink sauce.

Arepizzas

Last but not least off the options I've tried is the Colombian hot dog. When you read the description it doesn't exactly scream "eat me!" however it's something you should try. In the land of the Chicago style hot dog this is an outkast that deserves a spot at the table. What the hell is on it? Fair question and since you asked I'll tell you. The toppings include Cheese, Pulled Chicken, Crushed Potato Chips, Ketchup, Mustard, Signature Pink Sauce, Honey, Pineapple Sauce & Hard-Boiled Quail Eggs. Sound gross? I promise it's not. Somehow in some way it all works well together.

Colombian Hot Dog

Rapidito
1855 West Diversey Parkway
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 857-3999