• Chicago has some of the most authentic Polish food in the U.S.chicago aerial view image by Gary from Fotolia.com
  
  Chicago has the largest Polish population in the United States. Most Polish restaurants in the city are in neighborhoods where immigrants live, but there are a few that are close to the downtown area. Polish food is very inexpensive, but that doesn't mean you won't enjoy a hearty meal. Portions are large and filling, so come to these restaurants ready to eat a lot.
  
  

Podhalanka

• The closest Polish restaurant to downtown Chicago is just off of I-94 at Division and Ashland. Podhalanka is next to the Polish History Museum, making it a busy restaurant for both Poles and anyone interested in Polish culture. The food at Podhalanka is authentic, from pierogi and borscht to cabbage soup and sauerkraut salad, the taste of eastern Europe feels close to home at this unassuming spot. Prices are very low; a dinner generally will cost less than $10. The restaurant is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day except Sunday (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.).
  
  Podhalanka
  1549 W. Division St.
  Chicago, IL 60642
  773-486-6655
  
  

Andrzej Grill

• Located in the Ukrainian Village neighborhood, the Andrzej Grill is a very small but very enjoyable Polish restaurant. All of the dinner plates are just over $5, and lunch plates just over $3. Favorite dishes include the stuffed potato pancakes and pierogi. Soda pop imported from eastern Europe is available for drinks. The dining area is very small, but the value one gets with the low prices and large portions more than makes up for the lack of atmosphere. It's not necessarily a great first-date spot, but for anyone looking for authentic Polish food in Chicago, it doesn't get much better than Andrzej Grill.
  
  Andrzej Grill
  1022 N. Western Ave.
  Chicago, IL 60622
  773-489-3566
  
  

Mitch's & Janina

• Located in the same area as Andrzej, Mitch's and Janina Delicatessen is just as authentic and affordable as its neighbor. The restaurant opens at 7 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m. on weekdays (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays). While it does offer waiter service, take-out is a popular option at Mitch's and Janina. Food is served buffet style, but there is also a small bar in the back that serves a few choice brews. As its name indicates, it is also a delicatessen that sells Polish goods like smoked meats and Polish sausage.
  
  Mitch's & Janina Delicatessen
  1012 N. Western Ave.
  Chicago, IL 60622
  773-486-0684