The Origin
ā 3.3 Ā· 45 reviews Chicago Opened 15 May 2026
Jollof, egusi and a rotating diaspora kitchen
Chidi Durugo already runs an Origin in Newark. This one opened on West Armitage on May 15, 2026, in the former El Rinconcito Sudamerica space, and it's one of very few places in Bucktown serving West African food at all.
The menu opens with goat pepper soup and jollof rice, then moves to red snapper, suya, asun and egusi soup thickened with melon seeds. The plan from day one was a rotating chef residency, bringing in cooks from different corners of the African diaspora instead of locking the menu in place.
What guests say
Reviews by Google-
Audii Renee 7 reviews 29 June 2026
I got a chance to visit The Origin while in town for a conference - and am very pleased with my experience! The Suya Passion was my drink of choice for the evening , i highly recommend. Staff is attentive , and you can expect the food to be made fresh to order before coming out piping hot. The ambiance is nice , with cute decor if you like taking pics while you dine. Great place to eat with a group or going solo like myself. The environment was welcoming, after i ate i was invited to the upstairs lounge where i gladly danced off my meal. I had a blast and am so happy i stopped by. š
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Jesse Green 4 reviews 16 May 2026
Iām so happy Origin is now open. Not only did they have delicious food, but food that is unique that I cannot get at many, if any, other restaurants in Chicago. I got caught up in the Fufu & Egusi Soup trend online and found it here. They made a whole roasted red snapper. Suya. It was all so delicious. I will be returning!!
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