Once a haven for Greek immigrants, Chicago’s Greektown has become a hotspot for both tourists and locals. Located between Van Buren and Madison Streets, along Halsted Street in the Near West Side, Greektown was once the home of a large Greek American community. Although many people have relocated, Greektown still attracts many visitors to its numerous restaurants, cultural museum, and annual festivities.

Though the first Greeks came to Chicago in the 1840s, it wasn’t until 1968, when the first gyros in America were made that the Greeks began to be gain attention in the community. People simply could not resist Greek cuisine. Over the next few decades, the number of restaurants skyrocketed. Soon after, the Taste of Greece and other festivities were added. Small specialty stores opened, offering various types of merchandise including Greek music stores, cigar shop, jewelry stores and candle company.

For those interested in the Greek history, the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Centers are a must see. Free exhibits and informational seminars are showcased throughout the year. If you find guided tours to be more engaging, Chicago Neighborhood Tours offers a “Greek Chicago” tour where you will visit the Hellenic Museum, St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church and the Jane Adams Hull-House Museum. To reserve a ticket, call 312.742.1190.

One thing is certain. If you visit Greektown, you won’t go home hungry. Hoopa! Make sure to try Saganaki and the Gyros that seduced Chicago.