By Raul Trevino on July 2, 2010

Feature photo by Peter Fuchs

So many choices, what should I try first? With all of Chicago out to play, I made my way through a crowd thick as molasses. The smoke and scent of grilled meats and fried foods traveled through the air. I saw many of the usual suspects that make the Taste of Chicago what it is. The Billy Goat, Lou Malnati’s, Ricobenes, Harold’s Chicken, and Home Run Inn were all present. People chomping down on massive turkey legs flavored with BBQ or Indian spices. Foods from all over the globe were here to snack on such as Indian, African, Jamaican, Polish, Mexican, Chinese, Italian, and the list goes on. Not to mention, this was a great place to spend an afternoon or night. 8 dollars gets you 12 tickets and no food item is over 12 tickets.

While there I had a chance to enjoy some great music as well. Bands covering Metallica’s Enter Sandman. Two guys on saxophones playing Taylor Swift’s You Belong with Me. And best of all, a live band playing the Ghostbusters theme. Nothing better than enjoying some deep-fried ravioli while listening to the theme of one of Bill Murray’s finest films. Even if you don’t have plans to fill your claptrap with some grub, you can still come by to listen to some free music. Sit back on the grass, skylark and enjoy some tunes.

While there I indulged in some prime rib quesadillas from The Grill on the Alley. It was a great combination of some of the best meat you can stuff into a quesadilla. This is truly one you must try. One of the most unique entrees at the Taste was the shrimp burger with a side of tempura fries from Summer Noodle & Rice. This is by far one of the coolest creations you can try, a hybrid of Asian and American. I also enjoyed the empanada sampler with fried plantains from Las Tablas Colombian Steakhouse. You get a meat filled empanada, a cheese filled, and a beef and potato filled empanada in one platter. I feel you get the most bang for your buck with this option. This year, the Taste has a fair share of classic and unique items to choose from. Be sure to catch the Taste while it lasts and gorge yourself with pure deliciousness.

Dates: June 25th – July 4th
11 am – 9 pm Daily
Except Saturday, July 3: 11 am – 7 pm; Sunday, July 4: 11 am – 6 pm
Ticket sales end 30 minutes before the Taste of Chicago closes.