Hungry for Lunch? IT Staff Recommendations
Providing the Northwestern community with effective, comprehensive, and secure technology and support is hard work, and it can build up quite the appetite. We asked IT staff for their go-to orders at some of their favorite local eateries. See if yours is on the list.
Buffalo Joe’s
With more than 40 years of experience, Buffalo Joe’s is an Evanston staple (there's also one located at 1841 W. Howard, in Chicago). Located across the street from 1800 Sherman, it's also a staple for any Northwestern IT staffer looking for an indulgent lunch. Try the buffalo chicken sandwich with waffle fries. – Steve Christensen, Director of Communications and Engagement, IT Communications
Chicken Shack
At less than $6.50, the ¼ dark chicken meal at Chicken Shack includes a drumstick, thigh, fries, and bread making it one of the best deals in town. When you factor in the number of calories per dollar spent, it really cannot be beat. – Julian Koh, Director, Telecommunications and Network Services
Edzo’s Burger Shop
Edzo's Burger Shop on Sherman Avenue has good fries with different toppings, and the owner is a nice dude. They try to hire at-risk youth and give their employees a couple weeks paid vacation; it feels like they're part of Evanston. – Steve E., Systems Engineer Senior, Collaboration Services
Ovo Frito
Located on Maple Street, Ovo Frito serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The eatery combines well-prepared food and good service with a nice outdoor space (weather permitting). Both the French toast and burger are very good. – Steven Kahrs, Project Manager Lead, Application Development and Operations - PeopleSoft
Stacked & Folded
We just had a team lunch at Stacked & Folded. The food is a mid-price point, there is a variety of cuisine, and they take reservations. There is indoor and outdoor seating and the turnaround time on the order is adequate for lunch time. You can find anything from a salmon salad to a banh-mi sandwich on the menu. I would recommend this for team lunches and for those looking for healthier menu options. – Karen Allen, Data Analyst, Data Management and Analytics
Great tacos and particularly fond of the burger. Nothing will ever replace Noyes St. Cafe though. – Kathleen Dell, Systems Analyst Senior, Enterprise Systems
Good food with some eclectic options, friendly service, nice vibe, and outdoor space when the weather is nice. – Steven Kahrs, Project Manager Lead, Application Development and Operations - PeopleSoft
Sweetgreen
If you are looking for a quick, fresh, and plant-forward meal in Evanston, Sweetgreen on Sherman Ave is a must-visit. Conveniently close to campus, it’s an ideal spot for a casual lunch meeting or for picking up something to bring back to the office on a busy day. Two standout dishes that I highly recommend are the crispy rice bowl and the guacamole green salad. The crispy rice bowl is a delightful mix of textures, combining perfectly cooked rice with fresh arugula and a flavorful dressing. My favorite part is the crispy rice on top! On the other hand, the guacamole green salad is a vibrant, refreshing option that packs a punch with its creamy guacamole and crisp greens. – Kate Leech, Coordinator of Special Events, IT Communications
Honorable Mentions
There were several eateries that frequently came up in passing. Below is a list of additional spots that Northwestern IT staff had good things to say about.