Lydia Schultz

Chicago

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)

TARY-Coffee-House

TARY Coffee House – Kazakh specialty cafe

There are many unique food options to try on their menu like Bylamyk porridge with raspberry jam, Baursak (fried dough bites) or Truffle Mushroom Soup.

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Coffee & tea
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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Lydia

Schultz

Jan 18, 2025
Tesfa-Ethiopian

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.

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Restaurants

By

Lydia

Schultz

Jan 7, 2025
De-Luna-Taco-Grill

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!

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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Lydia

Schultz

Jan 7, 2025
Mella-Cafe

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!

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Restaurants

By

Lydia

Schultz

Jan 7, 2025
Irazu

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.

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Restaurants

By

Lydia

Schultz

Jan 7, 2025
Nha-Hang-Vietnam

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.

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Restaurants

By

Lydia

Schultz

Jan 7, 2025
Bolivar-Lincoln

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.

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Restaurants
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Snacks

By

Lydia

Schultz

Jan 7, 2025
OMI-Cafe

OMI Cafe – Japanese Dessert Café

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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Coffee & tea
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Snacks

By

Lydia

Schultz

Dec 30, 2024
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