St. Ben's Facts

Location: Within the neighborhood of North Center, approximately 5 miles north of the Loop
Boundaries: Berteau Avenue to the north, Damen Avenue to the east, Grace Street to the south and the Chicago River to the west
Bordering Neighborhoods: North Center, Irving Park, Lakeview, Ravenswood, Ravenswood Gardens
Crime Statistics: go to CLEARMap to search specific streets & areas for crime statistics
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Then and Now

The history of this Chicago neighborhood is closely related to that of North Center -- seeing as St. Ben's is bound on three sides by the larger North Center community. St. Benedict's Parish (2215 W. Irving Park, 773 588 6484) is the institution for which the area acquired its name. Around the turn of the 20th century, German Catholic families living in the vicinity sent their children a mile-and-a-half to St. Matthias, the closest Catholic school at the time. The commute was difficult, so families in the community felt a need to establish a neighborhood school of their own which led to the founding of St. Benedict's.

Shortly thereafter, St. Benedict's opened its doors to these road-weary students. Over the years, the church has made improvements and expansions, continuing to attract Chicago residents from all over to worship and learn.

Today, St. Ben's Parish is a still a respected co-ed elementary and high school that continues to grow in enrollment. In addition to a large number of families, this Chicago neighborhood is populated by a mixture of long-time residents and young adults just starting out on their own.
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Real Estate

Part of the majestic beauty of St. Ben's neighborhood is the existence of much of the community's original architecture. Elegant Victorians are intact and well-preserved, while brick two-flats and single-family homes line the streets offering residents a more modest housing option. Taking a stroll through the neighborhood, one may see several older homes being renovated at a time, however, new developments are also popping up -- including condos, townhomes and loft conversions. This is one Chicago neighborhood with no shortage of greenery. Rows of trees shade the residential blocks where sizable lawns and landscaped yards abound.

The average sales price for a one-bedroom condo or loft in St. Ben's is about $214,000. A two-bedroom place ranges between $200,000 and $500,000. The price for a detached single-family home ranges widely -- a two- or three-bedroom averages around $553,000, while those nicely renovated Victorians we were talking about go for between $800,000 and $2 million.

North Center Residential Real Estate Info (Includes St. Ben's Neighborhood)

Source: Multiple Listings Service of Northern Illinois
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What's on the Menu?

St. Ben's neighborhood may be small, but there's plenty of room for tasty restaurants and great eating.

For good barbecue, we frequent Smokin' Woody's (4160 N. Lincoln, 773 525 5733). Their hearty sandwiches and entrees can be consumed in their dining area (a big outdoor patio is available during the warm weather months) or ordered to go. Aside from their special recipe sauce, the rib-tips and the jumbo turkey legs are big hits. Woody's also allows patrons to create a platter, combining three choices of meats that are sure to satisfy any carnivorous craving. We also love the fact that Smokin' Woody's owner is often around either grilling it up or just making sure his customers are enjoying themselves.

There aren't a ton of pizza places within St. Ben's boundaries, but one very popular spot makes up for the neighborhood's lack of pizzerias -- that would be Pete's Pizza (3737 N. Western, 773 463 7770). A great place to order delivery, Pete's also has a comfortable and roomy dining area with a balance of high-tops, low tables and booths filling the tidy space and giving customers their seating preference. With this kind of accommodations, Pete's serves much more than just pizza, of course -- a full menu is available with pastas, salads, and wings to name a few popular items among the regular clientele. We must admit though, the pizza is what really draws a crowd. Pete's Pizza even made a top ten Chicago pizzas list on the "Rachael Ray Show" in 2007.

Rich, traditional German-style food can be discovered -- and devoured -- at Laschet's Inn (2119 W. Irving Park, 773 478 7915). A German coat of arms baring an intimidating eagle with wings spread marks the sign out front -- but once inside, expect a small inviting pub and restaurant. The menu is cram-packed with an onslaught of filling and flavorful German fare. But, if we had to pick a number one dish, it would have to be the Goulash served with spaetzle and red cabbage. Laschet's has a good selection of the old country's top draft beers, such as Spaten and Hacker Pschorr, served in an assortment of glasses measuring up to a pint-and-a-half. And if you're in the mood for German beer, but are a little weary of the heavy German food, Laschet's also has safe bets like hamburgers and roast beef sandwiches. Glunz Bavarian Haus (4128 N. Lincoln, 773 472 4287) offers another German option in the neighborhood. This corner restaurant has plenty of seating and also opens up a sidewalk patio during more pleasant weather. The atmosphere is a comfortable one. Tables aren't on top of each other, paintings adorn the walls, and wood panels give the room an earthy feel. Accompanying a roster of basics -- like thuringer and knockwurst -- is pan-seared halibut, roasted pork, and a half duck seasoned with cinnamon, rosemary and cloves. It should be no shocker that the bar has 14 German beers on tap however their vast ice cream and dessert menu is a welcome surprise.

Cy's Steak & Chop House (4138 N. Lincoln, 773 404 5800) is one of five different restaurants within the local Cy chain. This one is known for its juicy and sizable steaks, but it also offers guests shellfish, pasta, and kabobs, as well as an ostrich burger -- we're working up to trying that one. The sleek dining room is dotted with copper light fixtures and enveloped in exposed-brick. And the best part? We can count on this chophouse for quality food that's not overpriced. If you purchase an entree on a Tuesday, a bottle of wine costs but a dollar!
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Best Shopping Stops

Within the small boundaries of St. Ben's neighborhood, there are few shopping options. Simmons Pro Shop (2147 W. Irving Park, 773 267 0926) is a nondescript storefront that is frequented by people seeking a gift for that special bowler in their life, or looking to improve their own bowling game. Simmons has bowling balls and accessories for sale. They also specialize in re-drilling and resurfacing balls that can help add a few points to the average.

The Barking Lot, Inc. (2442 W. Irving Park, 773 583 0065) is a wish fulfilled for a dog owner living in St. Ben's. We can always find plenty of dog toys and packages of natural foods and canine treats at this doggy superstore. The Barking Lot stands in a 10,000 square-foot complex and offers grooming, daycare, and training courses, such as obedience and agility. They seek to meet the needs of each individual owner and his or her pet through consultations and private training courses.

True, the shopping in St. Ben's is limited, but shop-aholics have no fear -- a couple blocks outside the neighborhood borders awaits North Center's numerous antique stores, and less than a mile north on Lincoln Avenue, are an abundance of charming little shops in Lincoln Square. Want more? Go southeast three-fourths of a mile and you've got Lakeview's eclectic shopping spots.
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Night on the Town

Don't be mistaken by this Chicago neighborhood's name -- this "saintly" zone has enough bars and nocturnal hangouts to fulfill the indulgences of St. Ben's residents.

According to our keen observation skills, the most popular place to go for a night out in St. Ben's would be O'Donovan's (2100 W. Irving Park, 773 478 2100). The original bar that occupied this spot was called Schulien's. It was one of the oldest bars in the city, surviving over 110 years, and the building itself is currently the longest operating tavern in Chicago (est. 1886). Today, O'Donovan's has extensive drink and food menus with flavorful salads, wraps, ribs, and more. Their regular dining menu goes until 10 pm, when they switch over to a minimal -- yet tasty -- late-night menu. O'Donovan's has four separate rooms, three bars, and a vast outdoor beer garden to accommodate its guests. And, get this -- a magician appears Thursday through Sunday night, visiting each table to perform his tricks -- keeping with the tradition that Schulien's once provided. Even though the place can get pretty crowded, it's not too hard to find room for you and your friends or family. Mondays, however, can be different. We try to get there before 6 pm to take advantage of the awesome $1 burger special, which attracts a huge draw.

Around the corner, the Lincoln Lodge (4008 N. Lincoln, 773 251 1239) is a comedy club that has been attached to the Lincoln Restaurant since 2000. Stand-up comedy, video skits and variety acts entertain crowds in this small and intimate section of the restaurant on the weekend. Getting excellent reviews, the following for these performances has been growing, especially when people find out ticket prices are half that of other comedy venues like the Second City Theatre.

Slightly off the beaten path, hidden within St. Ben's residential section, is G&L Fire Escape (2157 W. Grace, 773 472 1138). Nestled among beautiful homes and stately manors, the Fire Escape unexpectedly appears to passersby, inviting even the unsuspecting neighborhood walker in for a nightcap. Inside is decorated wall to wall with firefighter memorabilia -- an homage to the owner's past profession. Though it's considered to be a hangout for the fire department crew, this quaint, clean neighborhood bar welcomes all who seek its comforts and spirits.

Keeping with its German roots, St. Ben's and the surrounding Chicago neighborhoods have a few well-known German establishments such as Resi's Bierstube German Tavern (2034 W. Irving Park, 773) 472 1749), opened in 1964. Resi's has 15 German beers on tap and over 100 other foreign beers available to its patrons. The menu has the schnitzel and sausage one would expect in a German place, and their prices are relatively reasonable. During the warmer seasons, we like to join the gathering of guests relaxing in the beer garden and enjoying the sun-protection of two huge maple trees that shade the patio.
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Mark Your Calendar

Every summer in July, St. Benedict's hosts BenFest (2215 W. Irving Park, 773 868 3010). The event lasts two days and is held in the parking lot of the school. Live music, beer, food, and family activities like bingo and blackjack highlight the neighborhood party. Donations are requested upon entry, but the proceeds go directly to the school.

Every year we look forward to Ribfest (4000 N. Lincoln), probably St. Ben's most popular event. Restaurants from in and around the area do battle to see who has the best ribs -- leaving it to the people to vote for their favorite. We must admit, this is a difficult decision. Smokin' Woody's, Cy's, and the Gale Street Inn (located in Jefferson Park) are only a few of the heavy hitters that compete in the June event. Other awards are given for the best food item, giving restaurants that do not serve ribs their shot at glory. Aside from the food, there are many little tents that sell an array of goods and a variety of bands play on two separate stages. Older folks can retreat to the Senior Oasis to get away from the crowds and play some bingo. Depending on how hot it is, you might find us taking refuge out in the Oasis, too!
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Getting Around

It doesn't take long to traverse the St. Ben's neighborhood. You can walk from one end to the other in about ten minutes, taking in the lovely architecture of both century-old homes and contemporary constructions as you stroll.

Even though the place is small, St. Ben's residents have some options to get around. Public transit is nearby with several handy bus routes: #80 goes east and west on Irving Park Road, #49 heads north/south on Western Avenue, #50 is another north/south along Damen, and the #11 (which travels downtown) runs northwest and southeast on Lincoln Avenue. We are in Chicago, so the alternative to taking the bus is, of course, taking the "El." The CTA elevated train Brown Line stops at Irving Park Road, just east outside St. Ben's boundaries.

A couple miles west of the neighborhood is the Irving Park Road entrance and exit to the Kennedy Expressway which makes for a quick car commute downtwn. Generally driving in this Chicago neighborhood isn't bad, however congestion does occur during rush hours along Lincoln Avenue near Irving Park Road. Cabs frequent the Lincoln/Damen/Irving Park intersection, which we find convenient for those times we don't feel like driving. Metered parking spots are easy to find on Irving Park Road and Lincoln Avenue. Side streets are free of permit parking for the most part, while one- and two-car garages are a handy amenity available to most St. Ben's residents.
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School's in Session

Families in St. Ben's have no trouble finding a place to send their kids to school -- the neighborhood's namesake parish provides an excellent education for first through twelfth graders. In addition to the following list, other school options -- both public and private -- can be found at our Chicago Guide Schools page.

John C. Coonley Elementary 4064 N Leavitt St - (773) 534-5140
St. Benedict's Elementary and High School 3900 N Leavitt St - (773) 588-6484
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Basic Needs

When looking to fill a prescription or round out your week with a cardio class, this list of what St. Ben's neighborhood has to offer may be helpful.

Post Offices

The UPS Store 4064 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 871-1400

Transit

Chicago Transit Authority - (888) 968-7282

Pharmacies

CVS 3944 N Western Ave - (773) 279-7600
Greenbriar Discount Pharmacy 4345 N Western Ave - (773) 561-1280
Walgreens 2301 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 267-8410

Dancing Classes

Belle Plaine Studios 2014 W Belle Plaine - (773) 935-1890

Gyms

AthleltiCo 2035 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 528-7508
Curves 4351 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 935-5650

ENTERTAINMENT

BenFest 3900 N Leavitt St - (773) 588-6484
Rib Fest 4000 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 525-3609
North Side Summerfest 4050 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 665-4682

SHOPPING

Barking Lot, Inc. 2442 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 583-0065
Lincoln Square Pottery Studio 4150 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 248-4430
Play it Again Sports 2101 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 463-9900
Simmons Pro Shop 2147 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 267-0926
Ultimate Sports & Apparel 4135 N Western Ave - (773) 478-6269

DINING

Coffee
Starbuck's 4015 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 348-5776
Red Eyes Cafe 4164 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 327-9478
Dunkin' Donuts 4010 N Western Ave - (773) 604 4433

Bars/Restaurants
O'Donovan's 2100 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 478-2100
Lincoln Lodge 4008 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 251-1239
Resi's Bierstube German Tavern 2034 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 472-1749
Horseshoe 4115 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 549-9292
Margie's Pub 4145 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 477-1644
Windy City Inn 2257 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 588-7088
G & L Fire Escape 2157 W Grace St - (773) 472-1138

Pizza
Pete's Pizza 3737 N Western Ave - (773) 463-7770

Italian Cuisine
Riggio's Cafe Pranzo 4100 N Western Ave - (773) 588-6181

German Cuisine
Laschet's Inn 2119 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 478-7915
Glunz Bavarian Haus 4128 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 472-4287

American Cuisine
Lincoln Restaurant 4008 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 248-1820
Alps East 2012 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 975-0527
Chicago Joe's 2256 W Irving Park Rd - (773) 478-7000
Cy's Steak & Chop House 4138 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 404-5800
Smokin' Woody's 4160 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 525-5733

Asian Cuisine
Mandarin Cafe 4062 N Lincoln Ave - (773) 281-1160
Sticky Rice 4018 N Western Ave - (773) 588-1020
Thai Room 4022 N Western Ave - (773) 539-6150

Community

North Center Chamber of Commerce (St. Ben's)
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Sometimes it makes more sense to view the city of Chicago as a bunch of separate neighborhoodsespecially when it comes to real estate. Whether you are in the market for a loft, condo, townhome, or house, it is just as important to inspect the surrounding area as it is to inspect the home's foundation. St. Ben's neighborhood is just one Chicago community with an abundance of residential properties, and a life all its own. From where you send your kids to school to where you dine at night, the information we provide is an essential piece of the puzzle when you're trying to decide whether or not to buy that beautiful loft or adorable house in St. Ben's.
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