Where To Eat
The food in Hermosa is populated by small, independently owned restaurants that represent a variety of cuisines. Diners, taquerias, and taverns are located along Belmont and Diversey, while Armitage has a scattering of cafes and bakeries. The style in Hermosa is informal, casual, in-and-out dining rather than formal sit-down, candle-lit restaurants, making it perfect for residents constantly on the go or who opt for carry-out over sit in.
Friday Night Fun
The nightlife options in Hermosa aren't as dynamic as in other neighborhoods, but most residents enjoy the quieter bars and restaurants where everyone feels like a regular. Fullerton Avenue has some comfortable dive bars where the owner seems knows everyone by name while a local band plays in the background. Farther north, the mood leans more towards dance clubs and traditional taverns that are perpetually populated by locals.
The Perfect Sunday
Fullerton and Diversey have several brunch options that range from diners to corner taverns. Get some Sunday shopping done along Belmont, Pulaski, or Cicero Avenues, where large retailers and thrift stores exist side by side. Take the dog out to Hermosa Park for a game of fetch or visit the fitness center in Kelvyn Park for a quick workout.
Transportation Options
While Hermosa might be a bit of the hike from the Blue Line, public transportation is still accessible in this neighborhood. The main roads of Diversey Avenue, Fullerton Avenue, and Armitage Avenue cut through the neighborhood, so there's always a bus stop within a reasonable distance. The Healy Metra station also sits on the east edge of this neighborhood.
Because this neighborhood is so family friendly, side streets are calm and less congested compared to some main routes. But most residents in this neighborhood do rely on their cars to get around, so be mindful that street parking can become scarce and make for cramped roads. Still, cyclists will appreciate the slow pace of Hermosa.