KEY This Week in Chicago, Sept. 7, 2018 Issue

September 7, 2018

LIVE BAND KARAOKE EVERY THURSDAY 9-11PM

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY 9-11PM #HARDROCKCAFECHICAGO CHICAGO | 63 W ONTARIO ST, CHICAGO, IL 60654 | + 1 (312) 943-2252 | HARDROCK.COM ©2018 Hard Rock International (USA), Inc. All rights reserved.

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This summer, fill every day with wonder.

There’s something new to discover every day at Navy Pier. Enjoy iconic landmarks like the Centennial Wheel and Polk Bros Park. Ride the waves aboard one of more than 20 daily boat cruises, delve into a world of shopping experiences, or grab a bite at one of our amazing restaurants. And this summer, explore a full calendar of free programming including concerts, art installations and amazing cultural events.

Discover what’s happening today at navypier.org

ON THE

Cover

EXPERIENCE IT ALL AT THE HARD ROCK CAFE Great food and drink, lively happy hours, an impressive memorabilia collection, live music and shopping opportunities — all in one place While meandering through the popular River North neighborhood in downtown Chicago, it’s pretty difficult to miss the giant iconic guitar that indicates you’ve found the Hard Rock Café.

For more than three decades, the Hard Rock Café has served as a unique dining, entertainment and shopping destination in the Windy City. If you’re even a mild fan of music history, you’ll marvel at the memorabilia-lined walls filled with priceless photos and pieces from legends like Jimi Hendrix, Prince and Billy Joel, among others.

Hungry? Enjoy choosing from a menu loaded with scrumptious salads, appetizers (cauliflower wings, nachos, margherita flatbread) burgers, entrees (fajitas, grilled Norwegian salmon, cowboy ribeye) and

specialties like hickory-smoked ribs and pulled pork sandwiches from their in-house smoker.

After you’ve filled up, stop by the Rock Shop to peruse some exclusive Hard Rock souvenirs and apparel. Also an ideal spot for a private event, the Hard Rock Café is capable of hosting anything from a casual lunch meeting to a elaborate reception.

And don’t forget the impressive live music calendar and weekday happy hour, where from 4-6 p.m. you can get $4 Chicago drafts (Revolution, Goose Island, Metropolitan and Half Acre), $5 call cocktails, $5 select wines, and half off most appetizers.

The Hard Rock Café is located at 63 W. Ontario in River North. 312-943-2252.

HardRock.com/Cafes/Chicago Get the app keychicago

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Sept. 7 - Sept. 14 W IN DY CIT Y W IN E F E S T IVAL SEE SEPT EMBER 7

THIS WEEK IN CHICAGO SEPT

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FRIDAY Tour a variety of churches and historic pubs on the Gold Coast (and enjoy a pint or two along the way) as you learn the history of Prohibition and the city’s Temperance movement on the Saints & Sinners walking tour from the Driehaus Museum. 2-5 pm. $30-$50. 40 E. Erie, 312482-8933.

Sample from more than 300 wines, hear from wine experts and attend a variety of cooking demonstrations during the Windy City Wine Festival at Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. Today from 5-10 pm and Saturday from 3-8 pm. $50. 301 S. Columbus, 888-695-0888.

Photo: Liz Benedetto, Elizabeth Ashby, Inc.

As part of tonight’s River North Art District’s Fall Gallery Walk, be sure to check out the opening of a show of fiber wall pieces by Wendy Franklin at Vale Craft Gallery. 5-8 pm. FREE. 230 W. Superior, 312-337-3525.

For more on Vale Craft Gallery, see page 27.

The 17-day all-over-town World Music Festival Chicago kicks off with Ragamala, an overnight event of Indian classical music at the Chicago Cultural Center.

6pm-8 am. FREE. 78 E. Washington. For a full schedule of upcoming events and performances for the week, call 312-7443315.

CHICAGO B O UR B O N & BARBECUE FEST End the summer on a high note with free live music and a terrific fireworks display during the Leinenkugel’s End-ofSummer Bash tonight at Navy Pier. 6-10 pm (fireworks at 10 pm). FREE. 600 E. Grand, 312595-7437. For more on Navy Pier activities, see page 12.

Get a sneak preview of the upcoming operatic season during tonight’s Stars of the Lyric Opera concert at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. 7:30 pm.

FREE. 201 E. Randolph, 312744-3315.

The familiar organ music of game day will be replaced by the

familiar hits of the Piano Man tonight, as Billy Joel settles in for his fifth consecutive annual performance at Wrigley Field.

8 pm. $54.50-$159.50. 1060 W. Addison, 800-843-2827.

SEPT

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SATURDAY Get whisked away to a time when Chicago’s rich and famous caroused on the coast and get the stories behind some of the city’s early mansions on the Glitterati on the Gold Coast walking tour from the Chicago History Museum. 10 am-12 pm. $20. 1601 N. Clark, 312-6424600. For more on the History Museum, see page 16.

This weekend’s Chicago Bourbon & Barbecue Fest features two music stages, continued on page 6 Get the app keychicago

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WHAT’S THE

Scoop?

nine barbecue kitchens, a bourbon tasting pavilion and vendor booths in the happening Roscoe Village neighborhood. Today and Sunday from noon-10 pm. $5. 2000 W. Belmont, 773327-5123.

Sample some of the best donuts in the city while sipping on mimosas, beer, wine and coffee and taking in views of some amazing animals and gardens during today’s Donut Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo. 11 am-3 pm. $25. 2200 N. Cannon, 312-742-2056.

The well-known songs of Canada’s favorite rapper provide the soundtrack for a night of smooth sounds and impeccable dance moves during Drake and His Dates skate night on the indoor rink at the Chicago Athletic Association. 6-8 pm and 9-11pm. $20 (18+); skate rental is $5. 12 S. Michigan, 312-940-3552.

Chicago’s own pop-punk vets Fall Out Boy hit the field for a big show tonight at Wrigley Field. 6:30 pm. $24.75-$70.50. 1060 W. Addison, 800-843-2827.

Rapper Donald Glover – aka Childish Gambino – brings his searing, politically-charged rhymes to the stage at the United Center. 7:30 pm. $55-$125.

1901 W. Madison, 312-4554500.

Even at the age of 92, nobody sings the Great American Songbook quite like the inimitable Tony Bennett, tonight at Ravinia.

8:30 pm. $46-$153. 200 Ravinia Park in Highland Park, 847-266-5100.

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Editor’s Choice

M IL L E N N IUM PAR K WAL K IN G TOUR Get an inside look at the history and evolution of one of Chicago’s most popular attractions on the Millennium Park: Beyond the Bean walking tour from the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Sunday from 1:30-3 pm. $26. 111 E. Wacker, 312-922-3432.

SEPT

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SUNDAY

Pick up a great bargain from one of hundreds of vendor tents at the sprawling Wolff’s Flea Market at Allstate Arena. 6 am-3 pm. Adults, $2; kids (6-12), $1. 6920 Mannheim in Rosemont, 847-524-9590.

Check out dozens of classic Ferraris and enjoy an afternoon of live music,

kids’ activities and delicious Italian favorites during the 21st annual Ferrari Fest outside the venerable Italian Village. $30. 10 am-2 pm. 71 W. Monroe, 312-332-7005.

Today is your last chance to follow the story of Elvis Presley in the early years of his burgeoning career, as the hit-filled musical Heartbreak Hotel closes a long run at the Broadway Playhouse. 2 pm and 7:30 pm. $32-$72. 175 E. Chestnut, 312-977-1700.

SEPT

10 MONDAY Opera and architecture buffs alike can enjoy a one-ofa-kind peek behind the

THIS WEEK IN CHICAGO SEPT

13 THURSDAY

C H I C A GO CUB S curtain and throughout the corridors during today’s backstage tour of the world-famous Civic Opera House. 10 am. $15. 20 N. Wacker, 312-827-5600.

With the playoffs in sight, the Chicago Cubs host their NL Central rivals the Milwaukee Brewers in a big three-game series at Wrigley Field. Tonight through Wednesday at 7:05 pm. 1060 W. Addison, 773404-2827.

Tuesdays on the Terrace al fresco jazz series at the Museum of Contemporary Art. 5:30-8 pm. FREE. 220 E. Chicago, 312-280-2660.

An actor goes to hilarious lengths to land the role a lifetime in the new stage musical version of the classic film Tootsie, opening tonight for a pre-Broadway run at the Cadillac Palace Theatre.

7:30 pm. $30-$90. 151 W. Randolph, 312-384-1502.

SEPT

SEPT

11 TUESDAY Learn about the city’s amazing skyline with a relaxing and informative 90-minute Chicago Architecture Foundation River Tour aboard Chicago’s First Lady.

Cruises depart regularly between 10 am and 7:30 pm. $47. 111 E. Wacker, 312922-3432. For more on the CAF, see page 10.

Saxophonist Greg Ward leads his group in tonight’s installment of the popular

12 WEDNESDAY The Music of the Baroque ensemble performs a program of Vivaldi, Mozart and Handel tonight at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. 6:30 pm.

FREE. 201 E. Randolph, 312744-3315.

In tonight’s Conversation with Eric Holder, the former U.S. Attorney General discusses the pressing issue of voting rights at the Auditorium Theatre. 7 pm. $35-$150. 50 E. Congress, 312-341-2310.

Kick back with a drink, a little live music and some of the best views in the city aboard tonight’s Summer Cocktail Cruise from Shoreline Sightseeing. 6:15 pm. $35 (21+). 401 N. Michigan, 312-222-9328. For more on Shoreline’s tours, see page 12.

Actor, musician and Chicago native Common talks about enacting positive change in our communities in a conversation tonight at the Auditorium Theatre. 7 pm. $25. 50 E. Congress, 312341-2310.

Get your drag fix with tonight’s outrageous live performances from the season 10 finalists of RuPaul’s Drag Race at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. 9 pm. $49-$59. 205 E. Randolph, 312-334-7777.

SEPT

15 FRIDAY Touring behind its latest release Red Pill Blues, Maroon 5 plays the hits tonight at the United Center. $8 pm $65-$125. 1901 W. Madison, 312-455-4500.

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3 COVER STORY

HARD ROCK CAFÉ: Great food and drink, lively happy hours, an impressive memorabilia collection, live music and shopping opportunities — all in one place

YOUR GUIDE TO

YOUR GUIDE TO

The Scoop

Museums

YOUR GUIDE TO

YOUR GUIDE TO

Exploring Chicago

Kids Corner

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MORE INSIDER’S GUIDES

MAPS

Your Guide to

Riverwalk

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Your Guide to

Shopping

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Lincoln Park

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Metro

19

Suburban

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Magnificent Mile

27

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Your Guide to

Nightlife

36

Your Guide to

Stage & Music 8

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Account Manager Jean Lieber Editorial Director Trent Modglin Designer Brian Hertel

Your Guide to

Restaurants

Publisher Walter L. West III

This Week in Chicago, Inc. 222 W. Ontario Street Suite #420, Chicago, Illinois 60654 phone 312-943-0838 fax: 312-664-6113 keymagazinechicago.com twitter.com/KEYmagazine @KEYChicago

Editorial Contributors Mark Loehrke Office Manager Nancy Vargas Chairman & CEO Wally West

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Tours

Chicago Architecture Center I always enjoy it when one of my tours winds up being an experience they weren’t anticipating. The river cruise is world famous, but a new tour I’m doing that is so much fun is called Hotel Boom: Making Old New Again, which explores old office buildings that have been recycled and refurbished into boutique hotels like the Langham, LondonHouse, Chicago Athletic Association, etc. The tour is actually a lot like the hospitality industry, where they welcome you and want you to have the best possible time. Like entering the home of an old friend. … It’s a very happy tour. Everyone is sorry when it’s over.

INSIDER PROFILE

What’s most important is that the new Chicago Architecture Center is now a destination. When you come to Chicago, there are many things to do — see paintings, eat wonderful food, walk through Millennium Park — but now you can learn about the architecture of the city like it’s a living museum. The center opens the gates to our walking tours, neighborhoods (which are critical to understanding the city), buses, boats and all that. And then you have the exhibits and can see the tall buildings and how they stack up to others around the world, experiencing context and history at the same time. … In one spot you can unlock so much and go exploring. It’s like the educational arm for everything that we do. 111 E. Wacker. 312-9223432. Architecture.org

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Constance Rajala, who leads seven different tours, has been a docent for the Chicago Architecture Center for the last 11 years and is president of the docent council. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying neighborhood festivals, local theater and Chicago’s always exciting dining scene. keymagazinechicago.com

Three hidden gems for visitors include 1.) The River Theater area of the Chicago Riverwalk. You can kick back and have lunch, put headphones on or enjoy a book and bliss out in the sun and watch the boats go by.

It’s like an oasis where you can remove yourself from the bustle of the city. 2.) The Tiffany treasurers around the city. The dome in the Cultural Center, huge mosaic in Marshall Fields/Macy’s and the tiles in the Marquette Building. 3.) Even if you’re only in town for a few days, take half a day away or more from the bustle, excitement and culture of downtown.

Get an Uber or use public transportation and get out to one of our neighborhoods. ... Try some real street food, immerse yourself in a different culture and walk the streets. We have so many authentic neighborhoods, thriving with their own vibe.

TOURS @ THE AUDITORIUM Go behind the scenes of this National Historic Landmark built by Adler and Sullivan!

Mondays @ 10:30AM & Noon Tuesdays @ 5:30PM Thursdays @ 10:30AM Tickets start at $12!

50 E Congress Pkwy :: Chicago IL AuditoriumTheatre.org :: 312.341.2300

ARCHITECTURE RIVER TOURS Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue Bridge

shorelinesightseeing.com 312.222.9328 #ShorelineBoatTour

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Tours

Navy Pier

TOP-OF-THE-LINE TOURS

Gray Line

Navy Pier, quite simply, is a centerpiece for fun in Chicago. Stretching six city blocks out into Lake Michigan and covering a staggering 50 acres, it hosts more than nine million visitors annually and offers a little something for everyone. NavyPier.org With a sparkling new venue called The Yard, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater puts on 650 performances annually.

Witness 2,500 years of oration with Bigmouth, Valentijn Dhaenens’ tourde-force performance and the smash hit of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, from Sept. 12-22 and Nell Gwynn, the 2016 Olivier Award winner for best comedy, beginning Sept.

20. ChicagoShakes.com Navy Pier’s new Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion, spans 200,000 square feet and offers up 50 different dining and shopping options as well as live entertainment and family-based programs.

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Offering the all-important “local experience” since 1969, Gray Line Chicago sightseeing bus tours allow visitors to soak up all the important, must-see attractions, landmarks and neighborhoods, as well as learn about the city’s rich history from insightful guides who average better than a decade of experience on the job. 312251-3100. GraylineChicago.us

Absolutely Chicago Segway

Take in an assortment of splendid views of architecture, fountains, remarkable museums, art, statues and parks on the informative, fun and exciting Chicago Architecture Tour from Absolutely Segway.

The captivating stories of the architects, buildings and history that make the city’s skyline so famous only add to the experience. 312-552-5100.

ChicagoSegways.com

Shoreline Sightseeing

It doesn’t take long during the summer to realize Shoreline Sightseeing is everywhere in Chicago. Now in its 79th season and boasting the largest fleet in town, Shoreline offers a classic lakefront tour and an awardwinning architecture river tour with stunning views of better than than 40 skyscrapers and landmarks. Departures from Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier.

ShorelineSightseeing.com

Chicago Detours

Enjoy guided walking and bus tours of Chicago architecture, culture and history to both public and private groups, providing a fresh, insider perspective you won’t find elsewhere. Check out their Historic Chicago Walking Bar Tour, where you’ll learn about the city’s vast entertainment history, including Prohibition, theatre, jazz and various vices. 312-350-1131.

ChicagoDetours.com

THE CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE FOUNDATION HAS A NEW ADDRESS 111 E. WACKER AT MICHIGAN

discover

COMING SUMMER 2018

“

ON THE T E OF O TOUR P TEN THE US IN .S. —TRIP

“

ADV USER ISOR S

EXHIBITS | CRUISES | TOURS | PROGRAMS

111 E. Wacker at Michigan | 312.922.3432

architecture.org

Discover a treasure trove of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, an internationally renowned zoo, a zero-waste craft beer festival, and much more just 9 miles west of Chicago’s loop.

1-888-OAK-PARK visitoakpark.com

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Riverwalk

On the waterfront HUNGRY OR THIRSTY?

Vino with a view

Check out the parade of boats and sip some locally made wine served in a unique tapping system at City Winery. Its original location is a sprawling restaurant and live music venue in the thriving West Loop district. 11 W. Riverwalk South. CityWinery.com/Chicago

Get tropical

TAXI BY WATER

We understand that feeling you get sometimes when a vacation is needed from, well, your vacation. It happens to us all. And that’s why there’s a tropical oasis right in the middle of the city — with live music and a distinctive Caribbean/Polynesian vibe — to remind you why you needed to get away in the first place. With Island Party Hut, you can even hop on a floating tiki bar to take the fun out onto the water as long as the weather allows.

355 E. Riverwalk. 312-600-0488. IslandPartyHut.com

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Why lose a battle with our infamous potholes or the downtown traffic when you can cruise down the lakefront or the Chicago River in style on one of Shoreline Sightseeing’s six water taxis? Save time and the headache while conveniently bouncing around between a handful of famous Chicago landmarks like Navy Pier, the Willis Tower and Museum Campus.

Don’t forget to snag a few great Instagram shots along the way. ShorelineSightseeing.com

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Craft beer lovers can happily converge on the Chicago Brewhouse (31-35 E. Riverwalk South), which boasts 42 beer options and shared plates of Chicago street food, and The Northman (233 E. Riverwalk), a local favorite for ciders. Tiny Tapp (55 W. Riverwalk South) offers quite the signature craft cocktail concept and delicious sandwiches, while next door, Tiny Café specializes in locally roasted coffee, fresh pastries and ice cream. As a longtime staple in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood, O’Brien’s (45 E. Riverwalk South) is known for its consistent American pub fare.

Gone kayaking Chicago’s premier, full-service watersports outfitter since 1999, Kayak Chicago has taken more than 150,000 people on tours.

Whether you’re renting a kayak or standup paddleboard, venturing out on your own or prefer a beginner’s tour, this is your team.

1220 W. LeMoyne and on North Avenue Beach. 312-852-9258.

KayakChicago.com

Get out and explore Offering Segway and electric Trikke tours along the lakefront and Museum Campus, as well as a number of themed tours (architecture, haunted Chicago, neighborhoods, Riverwalk, fireworks), Trikke rentals and even customized options Explore the Windy for those wishing City’s vast criminal and to design their own cheese-topped histories excursion, Steve’s together on the Chicago Segway Tours covers Crime Tours’ Crime it all — and has a lot and Pizza Walk. This of fun along the way. family-friendly, two-hour Steve’s Segway Tours was started by a tour guide, is owned by a tour walking tour that runs guide, and is managed by tour guides. And that’s rather important.

Friday-Sunday at 11:30 155 N. Harbor Dr. 312-946-9467. StevesSegwayTours.com a.m. and includes slices Whether you’re looking to see the river or Lake Michigan, Mercury, of pizza from Giordano’s Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline tours are ideal for families of all ages. and Pizzeria Uno. “There’s something about seeing this magnificent city from the water Advance registration is that really changes the perspective of what Chicago really is,” says Quarter312-888-6224.

Pg. Kayak ChicagoCaptain Ad.qxp_Layout 1 6/24 We couldn’t agree Pagemore.

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For $10 off tickets, ChicagoCrimeTours.com see the ad on page 25. 312-332-1353. MercuryCruises.com

Crime and pizza

Fireworks Paddle • SUP Tours Lake Paddle • Architectural Tour City Lights Paddle • Sunset Paddle

Tours Everyday (312)852-9258

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Museums

Exhibits worth exploring 1 The Shedd Aquarium offers unforgettable encounters with 32,000 animals from the world’s aquatic environments. Celebrate the unbelievable beauty living in our oceans, lakes and rivers in a new special exhibit called Underwater Beauty, and don’t forget the daily aquatic presentations with beluga whales, sea lions and dolphins as the stars of the show. 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. SheddAquarium.org

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The famed Chicago Art Institute is home to one of best, most expansive art collections anywhere in the world. It’s worthy of a fully day’s visit for sure. Catch two popular exhibits, John Singer Sargent & Chicago’s Gilded Age and The Yoshia Family: Three Generations of Japanese Print Artists, before they leave Sept. 30. 159 E. Monroe. Artic.edu

If you want to learn about the diversity of life on Earth and its history, the Field Museum should be your destination. The Crown Family PlayLab is an interactive, hands-on experience that turns your little ones into junior scientists and makes learning an adventure.

And don’t forget to check out Maximo, a 122-foot titanosaur from Patagonia that roamed the earth 100 million years ago and just happens to be the largest dinosaur ever discovered. 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. FieldMuseum.org

Catch The Story of Earth in the Museum of Science and Industry’s Giant Dome Theater. Stunning digital visualizations will take you back to the origins of Earth to examine the astonishing chain of events that made life on our planet possible — and (thankfully) sustainable.

5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. MSIChicago.org

SINGIN’ THE BLUES For some insight on Chicago’s influence on blues music, head up to Old Town to the Chicago History Museum for the Amplified: Chicago Blues exhibit, where visitors can learn about the genre’s inception and growth and even belt out the classics in a realistic club setting. General admission is free for Illinois residents on Tuesday evenings.

1601 N. Clark. ChicagoHistory.org

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Kids’ Corner

Room to roam

MUST-DO LIST

September can be a pretty fabulous month in Chicago from a weather standpoint. Warm, sun-filled days matched with cooler, tolerable nights. Which means Lincoln Park, in all its tree-filled splendor, should be a target for you and the kiddos.

A large park (and neighborhood) lying just north of downtown along the lake, it’s the home of the free Lincoln Park Zoo, celebrating its 150th year, as well as the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Lincoln Park Conservatory, Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and North Pond Nature Sanctuary which, when combined, create an ideal spot for a stroll or bike ride to expend some energy and get in touch with the outdoors. Not to be forgotten: the lakefront path that showcases the city’s beautiful beaches at Fullerton and North Avenue.

The Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier climbs 200 feet into the air and offers 360-degree views and enclosed gondolas.

The carousel and other rides just feet away add to the fun. ... Millennium Park gets a lot of the attention downtown and for good reason, but the nearby Maggie Daley Park, with its swings, slides, climbing bridges, enchanted forest and miniature golf course, is ideal for the young ones. ... The Chicago Cultural Center can always be counted on for free exhibitions, concerts and theater performances for children.

CHICAGO’S GET AWAY WAY TO

GET THE INSIDE SCOOP ON OUR TOWN. IT’S BOAT LIFE, CHICAGO STYLE.

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D E P A R T I N G F R O M C H I C A G O ’ S R I V E R W A L K AT

Michigan Ave. AND Wacker Dr. Mercurycruises.com

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Shopping

“You have to have a product people want, and you have to deliver an experience,” says Stan Razny, owner of Razny Jewelers (109 E. Oak) when asked to describe what sets Chicago’s lavish Oak Street District apart from New York’s famed 5th Avenue or California’s Rodeo Drive. Located just steps from Michigan Avenue in the prestigious Gold Coast, the Oak Street District draws in millions of visitors each year with an expansive list of sought-after boutiques, designers and businesses.

Part of that “experience” involves a sense of Midwestern values, which translates into stores that, while high-end in scale, still remain approachable. In other words, a warm greeting at the door instead of judgments. “If you go into a lot of affluent boutiques around the country, no one greets you for five minutes, if at all,” he adds. “No acknowledgement, and you’re just left floundering in the store.”

Razny says his staff, like others in the Oak Street District (which includes Oak, Walton and Rush Streets), aims to provide a personal touch to go with the luxury items for sale — in his case, Patek Philippe and Rolex watches and a wellcurated collection of designer jewelry. “People can buy this product anywhere,” Razny admits.

“The street has the product, and now it’s up to us to deliver that experience and deliver it to them in a style that shows we care about them and builds a relationship. A relationship with us and a relationship with the brand.”

For more information on the Oak Street District, visit OakStreetChicago.com Highlights from the area: Loro Piana (39 E. Oak) — Complete selection of elegant, ready-to-wear accessories and gifts that have been made in Italy for six generations with the finest raw materials available.

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Photo: Choose Chicago

Oak Street District: Approachable luxury

Prada (30 E. Oak) — This global brand’s inspiring concept of uncompromising quality and constant innovation in apparel has endured since 1913.

Barneys New York (15 E. Oak) — One of America’s preeminent fashion retailers brings its cutting-edge high fashion to Chicago. Not to be overlooked: the accessories, shoes and cosmetic collections.

Harry Winston (55 E. Oak) — For more than eight decades, Harry Winston has set the standard for the ultimate in fine jewelry and high-end watchmaking.

Charles Ifergan (106 E. Oak) — Fullservice salon and spa with extended hours and a national reputation for pampering customers from head to toe.

Christian Dior (931 N. Rush) — Creating elegant, structured and infinitely feminine collections since 1947.

Maple & Ash (8 W. Maple) — Posh, trendy steakhouse with a strong seafood, wine and martini menu.

Del Frisco’s (58 E. Oak) — This nationally recognized steakhouse with flawless cuisine and an award-winning wine list is located in the historic Esquire Theater.

SHOPPING

Vale Craft Gallery

MICHIGAN AVE. MAP presented by

AR AN

Oak

Razny Jewelers Marshall Pierce & Company

Chanel Van Cleef & Arpels

Walton Lotton Gallery

900 Shops

Delaware

Louis Vuitton Red Door Salon & Spa by Elizabeth Arden Bulgari Omega The North Face

Chestnut

IRIS INTERNATIONAL JEWELRY CO. Featuring breathtaking adornments from around the globe, Iris is the messenger that brings treasures together — and your home for luxury handmade jewelry created by a host of talented international designers.

Located on the fifth floor of Water Tower Place. 835 N. Michigan.

IrisTrends.com

H&M Columbia

Pearson

Ghirardelli

Top Shop

Lookingglass Theatre

Chicago Polo/Ralph Lauren Banana Republc Victoria’s Secret

Superior

Huron

Walgreens Neiman Marcus

Tiffany Saks Fifth Avenue

Gino’s East The Disney Store Brooks Brothers Stuart Weitzman

Michigan Avenue

Zara Express

Erie

Tommy Bahama

The Cubs Store Niketown

Salvatore Ferragamo

Cartier

Ohio

Grand

AT&T NaHoku Levis Ann Taylor Under Armour

Coach Garrett’s Popcorn Timberland

Forever 21

Gap Allen Edmonds

Swarovski

Illinois

Stan’s Donuts

Zegna

Burberry

St. Clair

Rolex

Ontario

Rush

For 25 years, Vale Craft Gallery has maintained a focus on contemporary American fine crafts.

Ceramics, glass, jewelry, fiber arts, metal, woodworkings and decorative objects are all part of the wide variety of items you’ll find when you walk through the door, setting Vale apart from the other fine-art galleries in the neighborhood.

The featured artist for September and October is Wendy Franklin, whose felting technique with hand-dyed wool and silk wall pieces creates a wonderful texture. “The abstract water colors draw you in from afar, and then you see textures of the fibers when you get up close,” says owner Peter Vale. “They’re really luscious colors — greens and blues and purples, and this is where we bridge the gap between fine art and fine craft. And that, ultimately, is what distinguishes us.”

Loyalty is another distinguising characteristic at Vale. Loyalty to local artists who hail from Chicago and around the Midwest, some of whom have had their wares displayed since the doors opened a quarter century ago. Loyalty to a customer base that appreciates affordable price points too.

“I see it every day — people are very surprised by the range that we have,” Vale says. “We have lots you won’t see anywhere else, and really in all different mediums.”

Vale Craft Gallery is located in the River North Gallery District at 230 W. Superior. 312-337-3525.

ValeCraftGallery.com

875 N. Michigan Ave. American Girl Water Broadway Tower Playhouse Place Macy’s

Labriola Ristorante & Cafe

Hugo Boss Stuart Weitzman Kiehls Shops at Northbridge The Purple Pig

Texas de Brazil

Starbucks

Dylan’s Candy Bar

Walgreens

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Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise

River

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restaurants

Texas de Brazil

EATERY SPOTLIGHT

Eleven City Diner

From the 50-item seasonal salad area to the endless parade of seasoned beef, lamb, pork, chicken and Brazilian sausage cooked over a wood charcoal grill, then skewered and served tableside, this is a meal for those looking to go big — the festive churrasco way. This is not just a meal, it’s an experience and a feast for the eyes as well.

Don’t forget to try to the signature Brazilian cocktail, the caipirinha.

We suggest the version with passion fruit. 210 E. Upper Illinois. 312-5950913. TexasDeBrazil.com

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This old-school diner and delicatessen is a casual place to bring the family and enjoy a menu of classic sandwiches, melts, burgers, shakes and delicious breakfast options in a comfortable and reminiscent atmosphere. Or, as the folks at Eleven City put it: “a hybrid of sincere respect for what family dining rooms used to be.” 1112 S. Wabash St. 312-212-1112.

ElevenCityDiner.com

Broken English

Noted restauranteurs Phil Stefani and Adolfo Garcia have three locations — in the Loop, Old Town and Lincoln Park. The atmosphere is vibrant, festive and eclectic.

Recommended: a Mexican street-style taco platter to try a little of everything. Combine that with the corn hushpuppies and a margarita, and you are good to go. 2576 N. Lincoln Park, 1400 N. Wells and 75 E. Lake. TacoPub.com

Nepal House

In business for more than 12 years, Nepal House has earned a stellar reputation in the South Loop for serving up high-quality traditional Nepali and Indian cuisine. Chicken and lamb dishes are roasted in a clay oven and incredibly tender. Start things off with an order of momos for sure. 1301 S. Michigan. 312-922-0601.

NepalHouseOnline.com .

Sunda

A popular dining staple in River North, Sunda specializes in Asian fusion cuisine, utilizing classic ingredients and techniques of Southeast and East Asia and blending them with a modern approach and vibrant presentation. Try the kimchi fried rice with pork belly, a very innovative Sunday brunch or a seasonal cocktail.

110 W. Illinois. 312-644-0500.

SundaChicago.com

What’s happening Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises opened its latest venture in late August in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Bar Ramone serves as the powerful restaurant group’s first wine bar, offering up small bites (spicy clam ceviche, cheese boards, tuna tartare, lamb meatballs, etc.) from a Spanish-focused menu.

441 N. Clark. 312-985-6909. BarRamone.com Hofbräuhaus Chicago (right) is bringing the best of Germany traditions back to the Chicago area with its sixth annual Oktoberfest celebration Sept. 14-Oct. 28. Guests can expect a plethora of festivities including authentic nightly Bavarian entertainment, freshly brewed Oktoberfestbier, food specials and more. 5500 Park Place in suburban Rosemont. 847-671-2739. HBChicago.com

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Indian & Nepalese Cuisine

One of 100 Best Dishes In Chicago – Chicago Magazine Highly Zagat Rate 800 S. Plymouth Court (9th & State) 1301 S. Michigan Ave. Hotel delivery 312-362-9999 312-922-0601 curryhouseonline.com www.nepalhouseonline.com Get the app keychicago

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

restaurants

Brunch favorites 3

1

Francesca’s on Chestnut is part of the massive Francesca’s family of restaurants, and the first item worth mentioning from the menu of this Gold Coast gem is the Bloody Mary bar, followed by a plate of cinnamon rolls, muffins and apple pie bites.

The most popular brunch order from our group was the arancini benedict, made with crispy risotto balls topped with prosciutto, poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. The shrimp and grits come with polenta for an Italian twist on a Southern classic.

Also, the smoked salmon salad with faro, corn, arugula, assuage cheese, grape tomatoes, almonds, raisins and a green goddess dressing made for a light, delightful first meal of the day. 200 E. Chestnut. 312482-8800. MiaFrancesca.com

2

Davanti Enoteca specializes in classic Italian dishes with a rustic eatery feel. The food here is absolutely amazing. Everything tasted fresh and was presented so beautifully — like a delicious burrata with roasted cherry tomatoes and basil pesto on Tuscan toast. I can’t forget to mention the prosciutto-veal meatballs with braised greens and shaved pecorino or the truffle egg toast with soft, toasted bread topped with cheese, eggs and truffle and served with grilled asparagus. Most of the pasta is made on site, and the self-serve Bloody Mary bar has everything you could imagine from bacon to asparagus to every hot sauce known to man. 1359 W. Taylor. 312-226-5550.

DavantiEnoteca.com

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TWO is a West Town restaurant inspired by familyrun butcher shops, and it has been on my radar for a very long time. The menu uses locally sourced ingredients to create food that is both seasonal and on-trend.

The small menu focuses on carefully crafted entrees instead of offering long lists of omelettes, benedicts and pancakes, which seem to be common at other restaurants.

TWO pushes you out of your comfort zone in a good way. I ordered the chilaquiles, which came with tender pork and tortilla chips drowned in a spicy sauce and topped with a poached egg and avocado mousse. My boyfriend had lobster toast — sourdough topped with chunks of fresh lobster and a poached egg.

To make it even better, the kitchen sent out fresh, warm cinnamon buns with a gooey caramel sauce. 1132 W. Grand. 312-624-8363.

113two.com

INSIDER PROFILE Kit Graham is the author of TheKittchen.com, a food and travel blog where she shares original recipes and travel adventures.

1112 S.WABASH

BREAKFAST ALL DAY

Old School Diner & Delicatessen

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Nightlife

What’s happening this week Enjoy live jazz, cool drinks and a relaxed visit with 32,000 animals at the regular Jazzin’ at the Shedd on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at the Shedd Aquarium from 5-9 pm. Tickets are $25. Located at 1200 S. Lake Shore. 312-939-2438. SheddAquarium.org Ironside Bar & Galley, a neighborhood sports bar in River North complete with seafood-focused, Chicago-style bar food and craft beverages, offers a happy hour that runs from 4-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and includes $6 Ironside specialty cocktails, $6 Mionetto prosecco and sparkling rose glasses and and discounted local craft beers. Don’t forget half off all 10 Ironside food menu “shareables” items. 546 N. Wells. 312-973-7792. IronsideChicago.com

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Looking for some stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Hancock building?

Drum Bar, the whiskey lounge atop the Raffaello Hotel, is chic and sophisticated with cocktails that will make it difficult to leave. 201 E. Delaware. Drumbar.com

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Drop in every Tuesday-Friday for happy hour at the popular Duck Inn, a gastro tavern in Bridgeport on the near south side that has a cozy beer garden. Enjoy half-price beer, wine, cocktails and bar snacks from 5-6 p.m. 2701 S. Eleanor. TheDuckInn.com

’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Stage and music

Sounds this week

Veteran rocker Todd Rundgren gets a classical assist from the Chicago Sinfonietta in a with-strings performance Saturday, Sept.

8 at the House of Blues.

6:30 pm. $87.50. 329 N. Dearborn, 312-923-2000.

Roots rockers Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit bring their distinctive brand of Americana to the historic stage at the Auditorium Theatre on Friday, Sept. 14 at 8 pm. $39.50-$65. 50 E. Congress, 312-341-2310.

ON STAGE

Comedy Bar

As if their iconic deep-dish wasn’t enough, the Gino’s East location in River North also offers up its own brewpub as well as the Comedy Bar, a cozy venue on the third floor featuring local stand-up and national acts. See Joe Praino Sept. 7-9, The Big Sexy Show Sept. 8 and Master Debaters Sept. 10. 500 N. LaSalle. 312988-4200. ComedyBar.com

Borealis

Armed with a book on corporate communication strategy and an ax, 13-year-old Cozbi battles her way through the Arctic wilderness to find her missing brother. Part mythic journey, part workplace satire, The House Theatre’s Borealis is a dark and funny adventure about family obligation, career aspiration and what’s left behind on the way to the top. Playing through Oct. 21 at the Chopin Theatre. 1543 W. Division. 773-769-3832.

TheHouseTheatre.com

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800-775-2000 · GROUPS 10+ 312-977-1710 · TOOTSIEMUSICAL.COM

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