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Highlights from Chicago's Mexican street-food hub
Maxwell Street Market, that Sunday-morning wonderland of thrift-store fodder and Mexican street food, is Chicago's oldest year-round outdoor market.
That said, when the weather drops below 40 degrees, some vendors pack up their planchas until warmer days.
The five-block stretch, with its scents of fresh tortillas and carne asada wafting over tables of used electronics and faux Crocs, is the market's third incarnation--and one of Chicago's most delicious destinations (and the best place to fill up for well under $10). Go now to try three of our favorite dishes, each too good to wait until spring.
Consomme de Birria from El Guero Sip a large Styrofoam cup of goat soup ($2.50 with meat, $1.75 without) while strolling around the market. The savory broth is seasoned with hot sauce, lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh white onion and cilantro.
Huitlacoche Gorditas from Green House Steaks There is a slew of filling choices for these savory fried cornmeal shells. Ask for two in one: jet-black huitlacoche cooked with onions and corn, and potatoes with chorizo (pictured, $3).
Tinga Huaraches from Huaraches Chilango The base of these Mexico City-style huaraches is a thin oval of fried masa stuffed with black beans. Ask for it with salsa verde and tinga de pollo--pulled chicken in a chili-tomato broth ($4.50). They're smaller than other huaraches at the market, but are fresh and wildly flavorful (hence the constant line).
Maxwell Street Market, Desplaines St. (between Harrison St. and Roosevelt Rd.); Sundays, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
