The History of Street Food

A radio interview in Chicago talks about the merits of street food and the historical reasons for restrictions on vendors.

1 minute read

January 23, 2010, 5:00 AM PST

By Tim Halbur

"INTERVIEWER: Why do we outlaw street vendors in Chicago?

INTERVIEWEE: One, we have a very powerful restaurant lobby that did a lot to shoot down the smoking ban, if you recall a few years back and put that off for several years. And obviously they don't want the competition on their doorstep. I also think historically it's wrapped up in anti-immigrant sentiment. Historically, people looked down on Italians or Greeks were eating, and it was one thing for them to be eating their strange olive oil and garlic in their house, but it was another thing for them to be eating it right in front of us."

FULL STORY: Extension 720 Unabridged - 01/20/10 - Bruce Craig, Monica Eng and Dan Protess

Wednesday, January 20, 2010 in WGN Radio 720

Land Use Illinois Chicago Street Vendors

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.