Jefferson Park

Jefferson Park, named for the neighborhood's eponymous green space, is known for being a family-friendly community and a popular residential area for Chicago's fire fighters, police officers and school teachers. With vast wooded areas, nearby golf courses and an abundance of families, Jefferson Park mixes a suburban feel with a city touch.

Layered in Eastern European influence, this neighborhood is shrouded in authentic Polish flavor. Andy's Deli and Smak-Tak are a pair of area staples that reflect Jefferson Park's Polish roots. Barbeque lovers unite behind the braised beef perfection of the Gale Street Inn, while the close by Saigon Grill provides some of the city's best Vietnamese-inspired street dishes.

Jefferson Park's most distinguished landmark is the Copernicus Civic and Cultural Center, a beautifully restored performing arts palace and a standing tribute to the Polish American community. Besides art exhibits, dance groups and theatrical performances, the building avowals one of the few surviving atmospheric-style theaters in the Chicagoland area. Designed by renowned architect Mason Rapp, the 2,000 seat auditorium provides a unique setting for the facility's many artistic pursuits.