Cross Cultural Exchange

The entire Chicagoland area is a rich melting pot of multicultural cuisine, celebrations and shops. Ethnic diversity is a hallmark of the Chicago Southland area. Explore these unique spots that help make the Chicago Southland community an inclusive place for all:

Irish

There’s no better place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than in Chicagoland (except, maybe, Ireland itself!), so it’s no surprise that the Chicago Southland has a vibrant Irish population. Chicago Gaelic Park in Oak Forest is the area’s Irish cultural epicenter, with year-round Celtic music performances, Irish dance and music lessons, Irish theater, sporting events and more. This community center is also home to the Carraig Irish Pub. Every year, Chicago Gaelic Park also hosts Irish Fest, a weekend-long extravaganza filled with an ensemble of Irish bands, dance schools and artists. Don’t forget the annual Oak Forest Fleadh, scheduled to take place on March 1, 2025! And check out Porter Cullens Irish Pub & Restaurant in Evergreen Park, The Irish Patriot in Orland Park and The Irish Legend in Willow Springs for even more Irish inspiration.

Palestinian

Over 18,000 Palestinians call the Chicagoland area home! Head over to the Little Palestine neighborhood of Bridgeview (south of 80th Street) to pick up some authentic fare. Even the street signs are in Arabic, making Little Palestine feel like a small slice of the Middle East right here in the Chicago Southland. Highlights of this neighborhood include Al Bawadi Grill, Alwatan Bakery, The Nut House, Prince Sweets and Jerusalem Banquets. Jerusalem Banquets is a favorite for those looking to host elegant events or simply enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere with delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. Plus, be on the lookout for the first-ever Little Palestine food festival coming soon.

Here are just a few more cultural communities that make the Chicago Southland a truly global destination:

Polish

Food & Drink

• Highlander House Restaurant & Bar (Palos Heights)
• Nad Tatrami Polish Restaurant (Monee)
• Szarotka Restaurant, Bar and Banquets (Justice)
• Tradycja Polish Fusion Cuisine (Orland Park)

German

Food & Drink

• Chef Klaus’ Bier Stube (Frankfort)

Festivals & Events

• Oktoberfest at Brookfield Zoo Chicago (September)
• Oktoberfest, Village of Lynwood (October)

Greek

Food & Drink

• Kefi Greek Cuisine + Bar (Palos Heights)
• OPA! Modern Greek Cuisine (Frankfort and Orland Park)
• Zorba’s Gyros (Orland Park)

Festivals & Events

• Palos Hills Greek Fest (August)