Built under the tracks at Chicago’s Ogilivy Transportation Center, you’ll find a treasure trove of worldwide foods at the new Chicago French Market. 28 different vendors offer a huge assortment of foods- you’ll find everything from a patisserie to an authentic Belgian frietkot.
Other stores include an artisan cheese monger, a European sandwich store, a Vietnamese restaurant and – my favorite – a Crepe store.
Prices at most stores are very reasonable, and you’ll certainly be able to fill yourself at lunchtime for under ten bucks. There is ample seating, and even though the place gets pretty crowded at lunch, the atmosphere is relaxed. The smell from all the global foods is fantastic, and even if you are not in the mood for a bite, just walking up and down the aisles is a show on its own.
The Chicago French Market is located at 131 North Clinton, in the West Loop. It is open from Monday to Saturday and several vendors are open as early as 7am to serve breakfast (how could anyone resist a grilled apple and sausage whole wheat crepe?).
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