Not far from the doorstep of my home, is a business district unique in Chicago. Specifically, a street called Devon Avenue, located on the city's far north side. Sometimes, affectionately, nicknamed 'Little India' because of the numerous South Asian grocers, restaurants and shops, Devon may not be exclusive like Michigan Avenue or Oak Street. But it has its own sparkle and charm.
As I walk along this busy street, the air fills with the aroma of scented oils and burning incense.
Patel Bros. is a marvel! This South Asian supermarket boasts shelves upon shelves of bagged spices, basmati rice, Indian snacks and lentils (known as dahl). Then, there are the numerous restaurants that offer south Indian, vegetarian fare, sweets and various meats (often flavoured with fiery chili peppers). And don't forget to sample the chapatis, naans, samosas and biryani dishes!
Also on Devon, further north, you will find a Georgian bakery, kosher grocery stores and bakeries. At the corner of Devon and Kedzie, across from the CTA bus terminal, is City Fresh Market, a food retailer that moves to a more European beat.
Recent road projects have made a visit to the neighbourhood, well, challenging. But I have not let that deter me from savouring an aloo paratha (a flavourful pancake filled with spicy potatoes) or my usual sips of mango lassi.
Jackie
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