In Pursuit of the American Spirit

RICH HERITAGE LENDS UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE

In pursuit with Eytan PEER...


“What ties us together as a country? My mind immediately reflects to my culture-rich Jewish Persian heritage. Family, for me, has cultivated this history through sacrifices made as first generation immigrants. In pursuit of the American spirit they developed roots and a small business on Chicago’s northern shores. I draw a great sense of pride from their enthusiastic stories tying us to a far off land, liberty and the Persian cuisine that I love.

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Travel, via taste!

My favorite m breakfast is Shakshuka, a classic Middle Eastern dish made from simple, healthy ingredients. Shakshuka literally means “a mixture” and the traditional version uses tomatoes, onions and spices as the base with eggs poached on top. While many cultures adapt, I prefer mine traditional and with chorizo or bits of steak. At my family table it’s served with fresh made pita. If you can find it, cantaloupe juice is a delightful addition!

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Ghormeh Sabzi - Persian Herb Stew

This is a classic Persian dish and the ingredients may be slightly varied depending on the region. (Similar to the endless variations of chili in the US.) If you enjoy a feast as much as I do, take the opportunity to expand your tastes and explore other parts of the world represented in your own city.

Persia is one of the most influential cultures in the world. Iran is considered one of the cradles of civilization, and due to its dominant geo-political position and culture in the world, Iran has heavily influenced cultures and peoples as far away as Italy, Macedonia, and Greece to the West, Russia and Eastern Europe to the North, the Arabian Peninsula to the South, and the Indian subcontinent and East Asia to the East. Iran's rich history has had a significant impact on the world through art, architecture, poetry, science and technology, medicine, philosophy and engineering.


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A family legacy bringing old world to your world…


I’d like to introduce you to my father, Eli, and our family owned shop, Eli Peer Oriental Rugs.

Located in Evanston, Illinois,  an academic center on Chicago’s North Shore, our shop looks onto a park that is surrounded by old churches and a music center.

Our shop contains an unusually large collection of beautiful antique oriental rugs, carpets and weavings. Through discriminating buying over many years the variety is vast and the quality is high. In fact, many of the rugs and carpets are from fine estates within a few miles of the shop.

Knowledgeable rug buyers and decorators around Chicago know of Eli Peer’s integrity. New visitors are amazed at the selection! We welcome your visit.

- Eli & Eytan Peer