You’ll start the night at Uru-Swati, one of countless Indian restaurants on Devon Avenue. Meaning “morning star of peace,” Uru-Swati specializes in flavorful and authentic vegetarian food.
Although it sits on the bustling corner of Talman and Devon avenues, the restaurant has a serene and calming presence from the moment you enter. Turmeric, cumin and other Indian spices waft in the air, and you feel like you’re walking into a friend’s kitchen. The 14-table room has a robust collection of plants growing in the window, bright interior lighting and a cozy feel. The walls are adorned with a cityscape mural, depicting downtown skyscrapers that all of a sudden seem like they’re another world away.
Staff will greet you at the door, direct you to a table and let you get settled. The multi-page menu showcasing a mix of southern and northern Indian dishes may look overwhelming, but there are no wrong choices here. Start with a fried appetizer; the samosas, a savory pastry filled with peas and potatoes, are a must-try. Puris, pakora, alu tikki and other variations on fritters and dumplings are also mouth-watering options.
Now it’s time for the main event. Entrees at Uru-Swati are meant to be shared with a group, and it’s best to try a little of everything. Smoky eggplant in the Baigan Bhartha, mild okra in the Bhindi Masala and tender cauliflower in the Alu Gobi are just a few of the outstanding choices.
The rich flavors blend for a satisfying and satiating culinary experience. Dishes are served with basmati rice, a cooling raita sauce and crunchy pickles that complement the variety of spices. Order homemade breads, including naan and roti, to help soak up all the juices and let you mop up every last drop.
Wash everything down with a cooling mango lassi, fresh coconut water or warm masala Chai. Uru-Swati does not serve alcohol, but guests can bring their own. While the dessert menu is tempting, practice some restraint because the next stop will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Head one block east on Devon Avenue to arrive at your next stop: Sukhadia’s Sweets and Snacks. For more than 30 years, this neighborhood favorite has been a destination for sweet and savory Indian treats.
Tempting trays of bonbons, toffees and ladoo will catch your eye as you walk in. Shelves of pre-packaged nuts, dried fruit and other snacks line one wall, and the other side of the shop has tables for in-person dining.
A wrap-around display case, filled with a huge assortment of pastries and candies, takes up the majority of the room. Here you’ll find decadent chocolates, jalebi, halva and other Indian specialties. Try the salam pak, a traditional Gujarati sweet made with ghee, sugar and salam masala powder. Bhakarwadi, a deep-fried snack stuffed with a mixture of roasted poppy seeds, sesame seeds and aromatic spices, is another outstanding choice.
If you’re having trouble deciding, put together a variety box and sample a few (or more) that catch your eye and save them for later.
Now that you’re satiated, it’s time for a drink and live music. Walk a few blocks east, past storefront windows filled with saris, wedding dresses and other formal attire. Two blocks east of Western Avenue, at the intersection of Devon Avenue and Oakley Street, you’ll see a brightly lit blue and yellow marquee welcoming you to Cary’s Lounge.
Cary’s stands out as one of the only bars on Devon Avenue, but maybe one is all it needs. This neighborhood bar — not to be confused with the more gritty dive bar — has been a staple in the community since 1972. Cary’s offers cold beer, pool tables and live music. And, as any proper Chicago watering hole should, they also have at least four flavors of Malort.
Bartenders greet regulars by name, but don’t worry if this is your first time here: Everyone is a friend at Cary’s. Walking in, you’ll notice a band set up in front and a captive crowd eager to listen. Settle into a comfy red barstool and smile back at the patron next to you.
With 16 beers on tap, you’ll find everything from PBR and Stella Artois to local craft brews. They also have a variety of wines and liquors, plus a creative selection of house-made cocktails and mocktails.
Once you’ve ordered, wander back through the compact but welcoming space. A prominent pool table offers a chance to test your shooting skills — there’s always someone willing to take on a little friendly competition.
The bar extends further onto a back patio, complete with picnic tables and a bonfire. Pete Valavanis, the owner, will make sure the fire is lit and may even share some stories over a round or two.
Now that you have the lay of the land, order another drink and turn your attention back to the band. Cary’s hosts live music Friday through Sunday, with a variety of genres and configurations. On any given night the room might feature an Americana folk duo, a Morphine cover band or tunes from a trans-femme singer-songwriter. While there is no cover charge, you’ll want to bring cash to leave a tip. Get lost in the music, and you’ll find you are right at home.