From outdoor concerts and dance festivals to ’80s parties, glow-in-the-dark fun runs, and “Star Wars” symphonies, July is packed with options for long summer days. Now through July 22: “School of Rock” This musical journey of an unemployed musician turned substitute teacher at a prestigious school is a charming and funny story of innovation, creativity, […]
The average American eats 12 pounds of chocolate every year. On World Chocolate Day, fete the fudgy stuff by supporting this local trio of woman-owned shops. Veruca Chocolates 1332 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 773-998-2462 The chocolatier: Pediatrician-turned-chocophile (and graduate of Chicago’s French Pastry School) Heather Johnston The confections: Handmade creations with Wonka-like whimsy — like […]
What lies between the bread? It’s a vital question for the sandwich fanatic, because not all sandwiches are created equal. Some just have that special something, that little “zhuzh” that lifts it above the average PBJ or basic ham sandwich. Usually, that starts with high-quality cheeses, freshly roasted meats and veggies, pickled stuff, and a […]
In a city as vibrant as Chicago, making everyday decisions — where to order dinner, get a haircut, push your kids on the swings — can feel downright dizzying. Enter our (eighth annual!) Best Of awards: You shared your favorite spaces and places, we tallied the votes, and together we’ll celebrate all that makes our […]
In the interest of journalistic integrity, a full confession: When it comes to the great outdoors, I’m a bit of a princess. Meaning, I don’t do camping. I don’t like outhouses. You will not find me portaging my groceries on a grand canoe trip. And don’t get me started on bugs. But on a gorgeous […]
I do love a picnic. There’s something special about eating a meal outdoors, sipping rosé, and laughing with good friends and family. But it’s easy to fall into a picnic rut, because once you find a dish you like, the desire to branch out is lessened. Don’t let this happen to you! Live large! Dream […]
Updated June 14, 2018 Summertime in Chicago — once it truly arrives — is a joy, filled with sunshine, lake breezes, and general good vibes. And no city does outdoor festivals quite like us, especially in terms of sheer volume. We understand the importance of food; in general, we don’t shy away from calories, fried […]
There’s more to see and visit in both Napa and Sonoma than you could possibly tackle on one trip and both wine regions are eager to welcome wine tourists back eight months after the terrifying fires. And, don’t be scared to try the 2017 vintage once those wines have been released — Napa and Sonoma […]
In a dinner rut? Read It & Eat, an uber-hip culinary bookstore in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, recommends these mouthwatering new cookbooks to reignite your creative spark (and your stove). Korean BBQ: Master Your Grill in Seven Sauces Bill Kim and Chandra Ram Anyone who’s tired of the usual barbecue fare will find inspiration in this […]
Summer is here, which means picnic season is upon us, and in my book, picnics mean chicken. Whether fried, barbecued, or roasted, and served warm, hot, or cold, it’s what I crave when I’m sitting on a blanket on Ravinia’s Great Lawn, or at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Happily, we are living in […]
