Ever since grade school I've just adored these trips to exciting places. They always seem to break up the routine of the everyday. Because food was the big reason for our adventure, we chose Chicago's Chinatown. Our Chinatown was established around the turn of the century on Chicago's south side. A tremendous amount of growth has taken place in this neighborhood during the past ten years, but the area has done a wonderful job of keeping its culture alive and thriving.
Little teashops dot the streets, each one offering a variety of sweets, savories, and noodles.
Inside the restaurants are large round tables, many of them surrounded by large groups of people enjoying one another's conversation and company. Though we were close to home, we really did feel as though we'd entered another world. One of the most exciting aspects of a visit to Chinatown is shopping for food. Foremost among the things you'll notice is all kinds of seafood. Some types you'll recognize.