West Ridge

In a play for some of the once-prestigious Rogers Park's prestige, real estate agents in the 1970's began referring to the blue-collar area west of Ridge Avenue as "West Rogers Park." As time passed, however, this so-called "West Rogers Park" had grown increasingly affluent while "East Rogers Park" experienced a period of obsolescence. Before long, real estate agents rechristened "West Rogers Park" as West Ridge, which is the name it goes by today. (Try not to get confused: Today, West Rogers Park refers to that portion of Rogers Park west of Clark Street, but east of Ridge Avenue.)

The neighborhood was first settled by European immigrants in the mid-1800's, and a housing boom in the next century brought historic Victorian mansions, row houses, and bungalows. Today, West Ridge also features larger condominium and apartment complexes, as well as charming two and three-flat apartment buildings. Over the past decade, a steady trend of renovation has brought modern amenities to many of the classic residences.

West Ridge, like many Chicago neighborhoods, is heavily multicultural, as nearly half its residents are foreign-born. There are ethnic boutiques and eateries galore, including enough Indian and Pakistani restaurants on Devon Street to confuse you into thinking that you somehow drifted into southeast Asia. West Ridge also is also home to one of the biggest Chasidic Jewish communities in the nation.

To get downtown, your best option is the commuter train. Evanston and Lincolnwood are close drives and serve nearly all your retail needs.