La Unica

Stroll through tiny La Unica supermercado to the counter in back, tune out the extra-loud soap opera on Telemundo, and order yourself the boneless breast of chicken cooked in butter (yes!) and herbs. It will break your heart. As will the saucy black beans with bay leaves and fried plantains you’ll get on the side. Cops are always eating here, so you know it’s good, and you’ll be safe, too. Some other publication said La Unica had the best Cuban sandwich in Chicago, but there’s so much more.

1515 West Devon
(773)274-7788

Best of Chicago 2010

Mustard Seed

Praise the Lord and pass the Bibles. You’ll find them here, right near Loyola University, alongside Christian music and icons. Browse the spiritual and inspirational books and if you can’t find what you need, they’ll kindly order it for you.

1143 West Sheridan
(888)973-7355
mustardseedchristianbooks.com

Best of Chicago 2010

Masouleh

Chicago is teeming with ethnic restaurants, but until recently, there seemed to be a dearth of authentic Persian restaurants. Husband-and-wife team Goly and Azim Nassiri-Masouleh named the quaint Rogers Park neighborhood restaurant after the Northern Iran region they are from. The small menu consists of fresh herbs sprinkled on succulent kabobs and a variety of veggie dishes. Entrees are priced under $10 and come with soup and a massive heap of rice. Persian tunes play in the background while customers sip on their BYOB of choice.

6653 N. Clark
(773)262-2227

Best of Chicago 2008