2026 Flavors of Albany Park

Written By Kay Villamin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago's Largest Restaurant Crawl Returns: Flavors of Albany Park Celebrates the World One Bite at a Time

More than 60 restaurants, cultural performances, art activations, and community experiences will transform Albany Park into one of Chicago's most unique culinary destinations.

CHICAGO, IL- June 22nd 2026 — One of Chicago's most beloved food traditions is back.

On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, the North River Commission (NRC) will host the annual Flavors of Albany Park, bringing together thousands of residents and visitors for what has become the largest restaurant crawl held in a single day in the City of Chicago.

Known as one of Chicago's most culturally diverse neighborhoods, Albany Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience cuisines from around the globe—all within a few square miles. This year's event will feature more than 60 participating restaurants representing cultures and flavors from around the world.

With the theme "Travel the World One Bite at a Time," Flavors of Albany Park invites attendees to explore four curated routes while discovering the stories, traditions, and entrepreneurs that make Albany Park one of Chicago's most vibrant communities.

"Flavors of Albany Park is much more than a food event," said Kay Villamin, Executive Director of the North River Commission. "It's a celebration of one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in the country, where you can taste, feel, hear, and experience the traditions of communities from around the world. From the flavors on every plate to the stories shared by local business owners, every ticket offers a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultures that make Albany Park so special while supporting the small businesses that bring our neighborhood to life."

More Than a Restaurant Crawl

In addition to the culinary experience, attendees can enjoy:

  • Cultural performances

  • Community art activities

  • Interactive experiences

  • Giveaways and prizes

  • Family-friendly programming

  • A community after-party bringing all routes back together

Unlike traditional food festivals, Flavors of Albany Park takes place inside participating businesses, encouraging guests to experience the neighborhood as residents do every day while directly supporting local establishments.

Supporting Local Businesses

Albany Park is home to hundreds of independently owned businesses and one of the highest concentrations of immigrant-owned restaurants in Chicago. By intentionally hosting the event on a weekday, Flavors provides a critical economic boost to local establishments while introducing thousands of new customers to the neighborhood.

"People often talk about Chicago as a global city," said Villamin. "Albany Park is where you can actually experience that reality."

Sustainability at the Center

This year's event will also feature expanded sustainability efforts through a partnership with WasteNot Compost, helping reduce food waste through compostable materials and educational stations placed throughout the event routes.

Sold Out

Demand for this year's Flavors of Albany Park has been overwhelming, and all routes are now officially sold out. Organizers thank the community for its incredible support and look forward to welcoming attendees for an unforgettable evening celebrating Albany Park's diverse culinary and cultural traditions.

For tickets and information, visit:

www.FlavorsOfAlbanyPark.com

2026 Flavors of Albany Park Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

  • Albank

Rosemary Sponsors

  • Green 5 Properties LLC

  • Old National Bank

Ginger Sponsors

  • Noon O Kabab

  • Rany Management 

  • Canopy

  • Meeting Tomorrow

  • Wintrust

  • ABC Printing

  • WasteNot

  • Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital

Cinnamon Sponsors

  • Faces International

  • Illuminight Lighting

  • Connor & Gallagher

  • Katkout

Cardamom Sponsors

  • CleanSlate

  • Senator Guzman

  • CICS Irving Park

About North River Commission

The North River Commission (NRC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization) is a community development corporation serving Chicago's Albany Park, Irving Park, North Park, and Mayfair neighborhoods. Through economic development, education, arts and culture, and environmental initiatives, NRC works to strengthen communities and improve quality of life for residents and businesses.

Media Contact

Caelin MunizNorth River CommissionFlavors@NorthRiverCommission.orgwww.NorthRiverCommission.org

Kay Villamin