Michelle Panting

View Original

Chicago: Eat, Drink, See

Chris and I have just returned from a quick five-day road trip out to Chicago. We've been to the Windy City once before, and this time we really had a chance to explore different areas of the city and experience its neighbourhood-y vibe (yes, I realize that's not a word). I can't wait to go into more depth and detail on various aspects of our trip, but here are a few of my top recommendations on what to eat, drink and see in Chicago.

Eat
Indulge in a decadent all-day breakfast at Little Goat Diner ( Girl and the Goat is just across the street if you're looking for something more upscale). The Fat Elvis in particular is to die for. Hands down the best waffles of my life.

If eating in is more your speed, grab some ingredients at the French Market. Cheeses, meats, bread, french pastries: this place has it all.
Drink
Have a cocktail experience at The Violet Hour. You'll be ensconced in plush fabrics and dim lighting while sipping a craft cocktail mixed with chemist-like precision. If you're a gin lover like me, Juliet and Romeo was fresh, light, and full flavoured. As a side note, the signage is non-existent. It's the white exterior with violet circles and camouflaged door jammed between the bank and the day care. A little over the top perhaps, but the drinks are worth the hassle.

Knock back local pints while demonstrating your Pac-Man prowess at Emporium Arcade Bar. With an impressive collection of vintage arcade machines at only 25 cents a game, it's nerd paradise.

See
Make your way through the belly of a genuine U-boat captured by the Americans during WWII at the Museum of Science and Industry (it's one of only four left in the world). There are also a number of super-cool interactive exhibits. The Henry Crown Space Center was a particular favourite of mine.

Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's personal side with a tour of his Chicago home and studio. I was wowed by the obsessive attention to detail and natural aesthetic of what he called his "honeymoon home."

Thank you to everyone who commented with their recommendations before my trip. I definitely appreciated the advice and took many of your suggestions!


Check out my Instagram feed for food and drink photos from Chicago.