Best Local: Celebrate Mardi Gras 2014 in Chicago

Indulge on Fat Tuesday at Best Local Spots in Chicago and the Suburbs

Courtesy of Bunny Cooks

Courtesy of Bunny Cooks

Get gluttonous, and have no shame—Fat Tuesday is a holiday made for indulgent celebration. Just grab a paczki, the Polish jelly doughnut-like pastry synonymous with Fat Tuesday, and you’re ready for Mardi Gras. Check out the Best Local spots near our corporate apartment locations in Chicago and the suburbs to go big for Mardi Gras 2014.

Courtesy of Trip Advisor

Courtesy of Trip Advisor

There’s no better suburban spot for paczkis than Best Local Delightful Pastries (5927 W Lawrence Avenue) in Downers Grove. The decadent treats at this little bakery sell out fast, so place an order today, Feb. 27, the last day to order! One Yelp reviewer said she died and went to paczki heaven. Don’t miss out. A 7-minute drive from City View at the Highlands in Lombard!

Courtesy of Blluegrass Grill

Courtesy of Blluegrass Grill

Get your southern-style fix at Best Local Blue Grass Grill (1636 Old Deerfield Rd.) in Highland Park. Eat Cajun and Creole food here just like they do in the home of Mardi Gras, New Orleans. There’s a great variety of seafood specials, and the Mardi Gras special takes it to the next level. This offering includes tuna tartar, seasoned alligator, escargot, an oyster platter, crawfish etouffee and more. An 11-minute drive from Riverwalk Place in Buffalo Grove!

Courtesy of Urban Spoon

Courtesy of Urban Spoon

President Obama gave Best Local Dixie Kitchen & Bait Shop (825 Church St.) in Evanston his approval during his appearance on “Check, Please!” This spot has all the southern-style starters and entrees you could want: catfish strips, crawfish and corn fritters, gumbo, po’boy sandwiches, shrimp, oysters and more, all for very reasonable prices. A 27-minute ride on the Metra train from Presidential Towers in the West Loop!