Why Chicago is Polish
Chicago has the largest Polish diaspora in the world. It is estimated that 1.5–1.8 million residents of the metropolitan area have Polish roots. Poles arrived here in large numbers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, building churches, schools, and organizations that still operate today.
Jackowo (Avondale) – The Heart of the Polish Community
The area around Milwaukee Avenue between Belmont and Diversey is the historic "Jackowo" – named after St. Hyacinth Church. Although the neighborhood is changing, you can still find Polish shops, bakeries, and restaurants here.
- St. Hyacinth Church (3636 W Wolfram St) – a monumental basilica from 1894. The interior is breathtaking – polychromes, marbles, organs. Masses in Polish.
- Staropolska (3030 N Milwaukee Ave) – a restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine since 1980. Bigos, stuffed cabbage, potato pancakes.
- Montrose Deli – Polish cold cuts and grocery products
The Polish Museum of America
Address: 984 N Milwaukee Ave (Wicker Park)
The oldest and largest ethnic museum in the USA, established in 1935. Exhibits include the history of Polish emigration, memorabilia from World War II, works by Polish artists, and archives of Polish organizations. Admission: $7 for adults.
Polish Churches in Chicago
Chicago has over 40 Polish churches – a phenomenon on a global scale. The most important ones include:
- St. Hyacinth Basilica (Avondale) – the largest Polish church in Chicago
- St. Stanislaus Kostka Church (1351 W Evergreen Ave) – the first Polish church in Chicago (1867)
- Holy Trinity Church (1850 W Division St) – a beautiful basilica in Wicker Park
- Five Holy Martyrs Church (4327 S Richmond St) – an active Polish parish on the South Side
Where to Eat Polish Food
- Staropolska (Avondale) – traditional cuisine, large portions
- Smak-Tak (5961 N Elston Ave) – pierogi by weight, homemade food
- Jolly Inn (6501 W Irving Park Rd) – a Polish restaurant and sports bar
- Kasia's Deli (2101 W Chicago Ave) – Polish delicatessen and hot meals
How to Get Around
Take the CTA Blue Line to Logan Square or Belmont, then a bus to Milwaukee Ave. Jackowo and Avondale are easily accessible by public transportation.
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