Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Little Mini-VAY-KAY in Chicago


So I took a few days off and enjoyed time with my parents who were in from Florida for a visit. One of the things I love best about living so close to a major City is how easy it is to take a vacation in your own town. Spending a weekend in Chicago? Here is my abbreviated list of the Don't-Miss.

Places to Eat & Drink

Looking for a cozy wine war? The Tasting Room on Randolph is a treasure. Fantastic wine selection, cozy environment, great service, free street parking and breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline. The perfect place to begin or end your evening.

Food. Chicago. It's like a religion.
The Gage. The curry mussels would be my choice for last meal on earth. Ya, they are that good.
Maza. Fantastic food from the Middle East. Relaxing and intimate atmosphere.
Smith & Wollensky. Located on the River in downtown Chicago. The only place I like to enjoy a wicked martini on a summer night before a concert at Millennium Park.
Phoebe's Cupcakes. Ever had a salted caramel cupcake? Try one, they are amazing.
Gene and Jude's. You need a car to get to this hot dog stand that has been around for over 50 years. The menu is less than 5 items, hot dogs, fries, tamales and pop. That's it. They hand cut and fry your french fries while you wait, and then stuff them in the hot dog bun with the dog. No chairs, no tables, no ketchup...you eat sitting on the hood of your car in the parking lot or you take them to go.

Things to do:
The Cubs. I'm a Northsider, it's a birthright to love the underdog. Forever

The Chicago Lakefront. The City's finest feature. From biking to boating, from farmers markets to the zoo, from museums to marinas. It's a must see.

Theater. Chicago is a theater town. Sure Steppenwolf, Goodman, Victory Gardens and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater Company are all good bets, but it's Chicago Improv and local companies that make this City special. Check out Theatre in Chicago or the Reader for show information.

Chicago Museums. Some of the best in the world. The Art Institute, The Field Museum of Natural History, Nature Museum, Chicago History Museum, The Museum of Science and Industry. It's not a visit to Chicago without visiting at least 1.

I could ramble on indefinitely about this City and I haven't even scratched the surface. Need suggestions on where to stay or where to shop? Drop me an email.

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