Lydia Schultz
Spotter since 2024
About me
<strong>About me</strong>
I'm a traveler at heart with a passion for seeing the world, as well as the biggest foodie I know. Food is a way to immerse yourself in a new culture, learn more about a country, and create unique connections with locals in the community. I prioritize locally-owned restaurants in non-touristy areas that serve high quality, unique dishes at reasonable prices (aka I'm a street food, NOT fine dining, kind of gal).
<strong>Why Chicago?</strong>
I have spent my whole life in Chicago; consequently, Chicago is the first city I fell in love with. More than anything, I am still fascinated by the city because of its mosaic of diverse cultures and neighborhoods. My favorite way to delve into this mosaic is by trying foods from around the world at locally-owned restaurants, which feels like traveling without leaving home!
<strong>Where can you find me online?</strong>
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/lydiaschultzz/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a>
<a href="https://gottacaseofwanderlust.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a>
<a href="http://fourteeneastmag.com/index.php/byline/lydia-schultz/" target="_blank">14 East Magazine</a>
<a href="https://harbinger.media/staff_name/lydia-schultz/" target="_blank"> The Harbinger</a>
My spots (30)
Tesfa Ethiopian
East African comfort food
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.
by
Lydia
Schultz
De Luna Taco Grill
Spicy Truck Tacos
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!
by
Lydia
Schultz
Nhà Hàng Vietnam
Traditional Vietnamese
Although this street is dominated by Vietnamese eateries, Nhà Hàng is a quieter, no-frills joint as opposed to the touristy, upscale restaurants nearby.
by
Lydia
Schultz
Mella Cafe
Local spot for Eritrean food
I recommend getting the traditional breakfast combo, a sampler with three dishes, that comes with complimentary warm, crispy bread!
by
Lydia
Schultz
Irazu
Chicago's Only Costa Rican
Here diners sit in the naturally lit patio while enjoying traditional homemade Costa Rican food: sweet plantains, grilled veggies, rice and beans.
by
Lydia
Schultz
Bolivar & Lincoln
Venezuelan Haven
My favorite thing to order here is the vegetarian arepa, which is stuffed with black beans, a generous portion of avocado, and sweet plantains.
by
Lydia
Schultz
Denden Restaurant
Affordable Eritrean
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.
by
Lydia
Schultz
The Momo World
Nepalese Dumplings
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.
by
Lydia
Schultz
Where to find me
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