When Cotto walks the streets of Logan Square, youth ghosts haunt him. The Discount Megamall? Gone. His daddy’s apartment or condos? Inhabited by brand-new renters. The Logan Theatre? Well, that’s still there, minus the sticky floors and second-run films.
As somebody who sells plants for a living, Cotto respects the cycle of growth and modification. “It’s a different neighborhood now, however I’m not mad about it,” he states. “This is still home.” When customers visit his shop, Terracotto Plants, they might entrust to a potted succulent, a plant cutting or a list of where to venture next in this diverse community on Chicago’s Northwest Side. Here’s what he suggests.
Get Outside
I can’t talk adequate about the Logan Square Farmers Market on Sundays. If you don’t want to be surrounded by people, head to Palmer Square Park, which is quaint however still close to everything.
Play Indoors
Bowling at Fireside Bowl is a should– it’s been there since the 1940s. Speaking of classic classics, the Logan Arcade has a stunning brick interior and old-school computer game. The Logan Theatre is a lot nicer after the 2012 remodel. I’ ms o pleased they had the ability to save it. Blues fans shouldn’t miss Rosa’s Lounge for live music.
Store Local
Wolfbait & B-Girls has fashion jewelry, clothing and other items from regional makers. For vintage products, Lost Girls is such a vibrant location, and I’ve liked viewing them grow. Open Books is a not-for-profit book shop– their exterior was painted by artist Sick Fisher, who also did the mural on my shop.
Fill
At Cafe Con Leche, I order the chicken jibarito, a Chicago-style Puerto Rican sandwich on flattened, fried plantains. My go-to is chile cheese naan from Superkhana International, throughout the street from Terracotto. I always recommend Revolution Brewing for an IPA and terrific people-watching. You’ll need to wait in line at Miko’s Italian Ice, but it’s worth it for the passion fruit. I likewise enjoy the carrot cake at Lula Cafe.
Logan Square At a Glance
Who
A diverse, friendly, creative community and longtime center for immigrants. Young talent contributes to a creative and inclusive vibe.
What
Milwaukee Avenue, home to stores, dining establishments and bars, bisects the neighborhood. In the grassy median of Logan Boulevard, people hang out on blankets and consume coffee or sample farmers market goodies, surrounded by Greystone houses and historical churches.
Where
Six miles from downtown on the Northwest Side. (Take the Blue Line.).
Meet Cotto.
Cotto is half Puerto Rican, half Mexican and sports a tattoo of the Chicago Transit Authority’s L map on his leg. His apartment was when house to more than 400 plants.
