Somalia is an East African country once ruled by several European colonial powers - namely, Britain, France, and Italy. These cross-cultural influences are reflected in Somalia's cuisine, which can be found at BULSHO Restaurant just North of the Magnificent Mile of Chicago.
BULSHO serves a traditional Somalian breakfast that is comprised of seasoned meat or veggie stew served with anjero - which is a fermented flatbread similar to Ehtiopia's injera bread.
For lunch and dinner, diners can order soor (corn grits); rice/spaghetti/macaroni served with your choice of fish, chicken or goat. Plates are accompanied by veggies to make a balanced meal. Warm beverages such as tea or coffee are also offered.
For me, a perfect order involves rice and beans topped with their spicy sauce and assisted with a side of bread.
Be mindful that Somalian cuisine is spicy - even for me, someone with a high spice tolerance. My stomach always slightly suffers from indulging in a meal here... but the food is worth it. Just order some of their amazing bread and you'll be good.
Find your way with 116 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.
by
"Four Moon Tavern" in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!
by
"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!
by
The "Chicago Athletic Association" (CAA) is an elite, hidden, and multifaceted space in the heart of the Loop. The gem of this hotel is the drawing room...
by
Side Street Saloon in Lakeview is the perfect no-frills dive bar with a cozy Italian vibe in back, great pizza, pool, and a quirky neighborhood charm.
by
KOVAL Distillery doesn't only produce delicious craft spirits, they're also a city landmark — the first fully operational distillery in Chicago in years.
by
Wormhole in Wicker Park, Chicago is my favorite coffee shop in the city. When you walk in, it feels like you have stepped back in time to the '80s...
by
"Dearborn Denim" in Chicago has real, American-made denim jeans. They even lack the hems so you can have final stitches done on-site and custom for you!
by
"Chicago Magic Lounge" is in a large theater, but here they also do magic right at the bar! I recommend staying for several sets: you too will be stumped!
by
"Int'l Museum Surgical Science" in Chicago sounds a little creepy at first. It makes you grateful to be alive in the most recent era of modern medicine...
by
"Bar Roma" in Chicago is my favorite Italian restaurant in the area hands down! This is kind of a big deal, since Italian isn't even my favorite cuisine...
by
116 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 116 Insider Tips