In a city idolized for its towering skyscrapers, iconic landmarks and scenic views, there are several well-known spots with views that draw mass crowds of tourists and locals alike. These beloved spots do offer quality iconic views of the city; however, spots unknown to the mass public offer the beauty of the skyline coupled with the luxury of seclusion.
Such a spot is the pier at the harbor located on Diversey Avenue. Kept by locals as somewhat of an “intimate secret”, this harbor hosts an unbeatable view of the downtown skyscrapers lining the shore of Lake Michigan. Albeit spectacular, the view of the city offered at the edge of the Diversey Harbor is a familiar view, obtainable from other well-known spots in the city.
What makes this spot unique is the location at which this view is seen from. Farther north than most scenic spots in the city, Diversey Harbor is frequented less often than the other downtown lakeshore spots (i.e. North Avenue beach piers), allowing for a more quiet, intimate viewing experience. There is no better way to fall in love with the city than to take a walk to the pier and watch the sun set across the city in this quiet, serene setting.
2601 North Cannon Drive
USD
free
Find your way with 116 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The food here is prepared by Moses Sake, chef and co-owner of Tesfa, who learned how to cook from his mother. He runs Tesfa with his brother, Samuel Sake.
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I recommend getting the traditional breakfast combo, a sampler with three dishes, that comes with complimentary warm, crispy bread!
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The star of the show is De Luna's "volcano" taco, made with spicy poblano pepper and melted cheese. It may be one of the best tacos I've eaten in my life!
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Although this street is dominated by Vietnamese eateries, Nhà Hàng is a quieter, no-frills joint as opposed to the touristy, upscale restaurants nearby.
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Here diners sit in the naturally lit patio while enjoying traditional homemade Costa Rican food: sweet plantains, grilled veggies, rice and beans.
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My favorite thing to order here is the vegetarian arepa, which is stuffed with black beans, a generous portion of avocado, and sweet plantains.
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Founded in 1948, "Superdawg" is THE quintessential Chicago hot dog place - they'll bring your order right to your car, like they did in the '50s!
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The lentils are filling and creamy; the veggies are lightly cooked and nourishing; the injera bread is the perfect balance of slightly tangy and spongey.
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OMI has many good menu options, but their Japanese dessert toast is their all-star. Think of it as a fluffy French toast served with vanilla ice cream.
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Choose from multigrain sourdough, their house sourdough and miso rye sourdough; pastry choices include croissants, morning buns, and fruit danishes.
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Momos are bite-sized dumplings from Nepal and Tibet, usually filled with meat that is seasoned with spices like turmeric, garlic, cumin, and chili peppers.
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Their bread that has the perfect ratio of chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The 1979 multigrain sourdough is some of the best bread I've had!
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116 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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