KEY This Week in Chicago, March 22, 2019 Issue

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APOLLO THEATER CHICAGO | D J E M B E T H E S H O W . C O M

March 22, 2019

Don’t Don’t miss miss the the largest largest pop pop culture culture convention convention in in the the Midwest, Midwest,

C2E2

NOW OPEN

SERVING LUNCH, BRUNCH & DINNER PERFECT FOR GROUP BUSINESS EVENTS, PRIVATE PARTIES & CELEBRATIONS RESERVATIONS: CHICAGO@BARTONG.COM 415 N. DEARBORN, CHICAGO • 312.260.5050 • BARTONG.COM

ON THE

Cover

C2E2 RETURNS TO CHICAGO McCormick Place is home to the Midwest’s largest comic, cosplay and pop-culture convention March 22-24 Now in its ninth year, the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo — better known as C2E2 — is largest pop-culture convention in the Midwest. Whether you’re a fan of comic books, cosplay, video games, movies, TV shows, anime, books, wrestling or comedy, C2E2 embraces the idea that “all nerds need a place to call home” — and that home is a big one, as some 82,500 people attended in 2018.

C2E2 is a place for creative types to come share their passion with like-minded people.

Whether you visit the hundreds of comic

vendors, stroll down the beautiful artist alley, check out the latest entertainment in the gaming alley or screening rooms, or cram as many panels, autographs and photo ops into one day as possible, C2E2 will surely satisfy your inner nerd.

In addition, not only is C2E2 family friendly, but it’s also home to the most prestigious cosplay award show in the world.

C2E2 is held in the South Building at McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.). Visit C2E2.com for a $10 savings on convention badges.

If you want to get decked out for the show, Fantasy Costumes has been the sought-after destination for the largest selection of costumes and accessories in Chicagoland for more than 50 years. 4065 N. Milwaukee. FantasyCostumes.com Get the app keychicago

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March 22 - March 29 CHICAGO F L O W E R AN D GAR DE N S HO W SEE MA RC H 22

THIS WEEK IN CHICAGO MAR

22 FRIDAY Think spring with an amazing array of life-sized gardens, how-to workshops, instructional seminars and much more at the annual Chicago Flower and Garden Show this weekend at Navy Pier. Today through Sunday, 10 am–8 pm. Adults, $10-$20; kids (4-12), $5. 600 E. Grand, 312-595-7437.

The annual Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2) is a three-day celebration of comics, cosplay and pop culture featuring panels, autograph sessions and much more at McCormick Place. Today and Saturday, 10 am–7 pm, Sunday, 10 am–5 pm. Adults, $75 for a three-day badge or $30-$45 daily; kids (6-12), $20 for a three-day badge or $10 for Sunday only.

2301 S. Lake Shore, 800-3544003. For more on C2E2, see page 3.

Enjoy multiple levels of unlimited food, drink and entertainment at one of the biggest culinary destinations in town during SpringFest tonight at Eataly. 6 pm– midnight. $78. 43 E. Ohio, 312-521-8700.

Revel in the romance of the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s production of the Verdi classic La traviata tonight at the Civic Opera House. 7 pm. $32-$289.

20 N. Wacker, 312-827-5600.

2019 is the Year of Chicago Theatre, and there’s no better way to celebrate than

GL O B AL CO N N ECTION S by taking in a production in one of the city’s famed storefront theaters, like the satirical literary adaptation The Man Who Was Thursday from Lifeline Theatre. 7:30 pm. $40. 6912 N. Glenwood, 773-761-4477. For more on the Year of Chicago Theatre, see pages 37-38.

Giordano Dance Chicago celebrates its 56th Spring Series with a world premiere from choreographer Marinda Davis at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Tonight and Saturday at 7:30 pm. $15-$75. 205 E. Randolph, 312-334-7777.

Check out the classic musical An American in Paris on the big screen as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra plays the famous Gershwin score live at Symphony Center. Tonight at 8 pm and Sunday at 3 pm. $70-$155. 220 S. Michigan, 312-294-3000.

Country superstar Eric Church settles in for two big nights at the Allstate Arena. Tonight and Saturday

at 8 pm. $69-$139. 6920 Mannheim in Rosemont, 847-635-6601.

MAR

23 SATURDAY Journey back to 1893 with historian Al Walavich to follow the trails of Daniel Burnham and the devilish doings of H. H. Holmes on the Devil in the White City Bus Tour from the Chicago History Museum. 1–5 pm. $55. 1601 N. Clark, 312-642-4600.

Today’s Global Connections event celebrates the colorful Hindu spring festival of Holi with an afternoon of music, dance, food and art at Navy Pier. 1–5 pm. FREE. 600 E. Grand, 312-595-7437.

World-renowned soprano Renée Fleming celebrates her 25-year association with the Lyric Opera of continued on page 6 Get the app keychicago

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WHAT’S THE

Scoop?

Chicago with a star-studded anniversary concert tonight at the Civic Opera House.

7:30 pm. $79-$339. 20 N. Wacker, 312-827-5600.

Editor’s Choice

Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 (Scottish) is the centerpiece of tonight’s Chicago Symphony Orchestra performance at Symphony Center. 8 pm. $35-$222. 220 S. Michigan, 312-294-3000.

Trip hop standard-bearers Massive Attack bring three decades of influential sounds and beats to the Chicago Theatre. 8 pm. $85-$145.

175 N. State, 312-462-6300.

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F L O W E R S AN D S HO P P IN G GAL ORE Check out spectacular gardens filled with millions of live flowers, plants and trees from around the world during the annual Macy’s Flower Show, opening Sunday, March 24 at the flagship store on State Street.

11 am–8 pm. FREE. 111 N. State, 312-781-4483.

SUNDAY

MAR

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Celebrate Sunday mass right in the heart of downtown at historic St. Peter’s in the Loop. 9 am, 11 am, 12:30 pm and 6 pm. FREE. 110 W. Madison, 312-372-5111.

Get your week off to a deliciously uplifting start with a Southern buffet and rousing live gospel music at the popular House of Blues Gospel Brunch. 10 am and 12:30 pm. Adults, $43; kids (6-12), $25. 329 N. Dearborn, 312-923-2000.

Today is your last chance to catch the hit Broadway musical A Bronx Tale at the Nederlander Theatre. 2 pm. $23.50-$86.50. 24 W. Randolph, 312-977-1700.

Experience the heat as you watch talented artists transform 2,000-degree

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MONDAY Afro-Cuban singer Daymé Arocena performs during tonight’s Mix at Six event at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. 6 pm. $15. 205 E. Randolph, 312-334-7777. molten glass into one-of-a-kind pieces of art during today’s Interactive Glassblowing Demonstration at Ignite Glass Studios. 2–4 pm. FREE. 401 N. Armour, 312-465-2389.

Patrick Kane and the Chicago Blackhawks hit the ice to take on the Colorado Avalanche tonight at the United Center. 7 pm. 1901 W. Madison, 312-455-7000.

In tonight’s program In Darkness We Rise, the Chicago Sinfonietta explores love, loss and hope through the musical storytelling of several narrators at Symphony Center. 7:30 pm. $10-$99. 220 S. Michigan, 312-284-1554.

Fresh off a big night at the Grammys, up-andcoming country star Kacey Musgraves brings her tradition-with-a-twist tunes

THIS WEEK IN CHICAGO to the Chicago Theatre. 8 pm. $45-$75. 175 N. State, 312-462-6300.

MAR

26 TUESDAY From the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of 1920s Paris, the Broadway musical Anastasia, a tale of home, love and family, opens tonight at the Nederlander Theatre. 7:30 pm. $46.50$86.50. 24 W. Randolph, 312-977-1700.

See and hear a traditional stringed instrument in a whole new light tonight with the exciting, high-energy pop duo 2Cellos at the United Center. 7:30 pm. $20-$65. 1901 W. Madison, 312-455-4500.

M UM F O R D & SON S The San Francisco Symphony pays a visit to the Windy City for a program anchored by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 (Eroica) tonight at Symphony Center.

7:30 pm. $35-$163. 220 S. Michigan, 312-294-3000.

MAR

27 WEDNESDAY Damian Lillard leads the Portland Trail Blazers into town to take on the Chicago Bulls tonight at the United Center. 7 pm. 1901 W. Madison, 312-455-4000.

Enjoy the smooth four-part vocal harmonies of Il Divo tonight at the Rosemont Theatre. 8 pm. $47.50$107.50. 5400 N. River in Rosemont, 847-671-5100.

MAR

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beloved historic buildings on a walking tour of the Rookery Building from the Chicago Architecture Center. 12:15–1:15 pm. $20.

Meet inside 209 S. LaSalle, 312-922-3432.

MAR

29 FRIDAY Veteran roots rockers Mumford & Sons hit town behind their new album Delta with an in-the-round performance tonight at the United Center. 7:30 pm. $65-$175. 1901 W. Madison, 312-455-4500.

Check out a nighttime telescope viewing and get your questions about the cosmos answered by an astronomer during this evening’s Doane at Dusk event in the Doane Observatory at the Adler Planetarium. 8–9:30 pm.

FREE. 1300 S. Lake Shore, 312-922-7827.

THURSDAY Explore the interior and exterior of one of Chicago’s most famous and Get the app keychicago

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3 COVER STORY

C2E2 RETURNS TO CHICAGO: McCormick Place is home to the Midwest’s largest comic, cosplay and pop-culture convention March 22-24

YOUR GUIDE TO

YOUR GUIDE TO

The Scoop

Kids Corner

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YOUR GUIDE TO

Exploring Chicago

YOUR GUIDE TO

Museums

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MORE INSIDER’S GUIDES

Shopping Your Guide to

Restaurants Your Guide to

Nightlife Your Guide to

Stage & Music 8

Publisher

MAPS

28 Your Guide to

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Walter L. West III

Metro

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Editorial Director

Suburban

24

Trent Modglin

Magnificent Mile

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Lincoln Park

Designer Brian Hertel

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Editorial Contributors Mark Loehrke

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’S INSIDER YOUR GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Explore the city

Soak up Chicago on a budget

We all would love to travel, to explore a city like Chicago, without a care in the world when it comes to expenses.

But for the vast majority of us, that’s not realistic.

Budgets, however, are. Fortunately, there are plenty of free and inexpensive things to do and see that represent the best of Chicago if you’re looking to save a little money without sacrificing the visitor experiences.

Free Chicago Walking Tours

TONS OF CULTURE

Free Chicago Walking Tours has given more than 2,000 walking tours to more than 10,000 guests from around the world since launching in 2016. They offer a variety of easy walking tours of the city’s most iconic neighborhood’s and sights — led by experienced guides with a focus on three things: meeting people, learning and having fun. Though free, tipping your guide accordingly is appreciated. FreeChicagoWalkingTours.com

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FREE INSIGHT Chicago Greeter Program Wouldn’t everyone like a warm, smiling face to meet you and tell you more about the city?

The Chicago Greeter program highlights areas of interest in more than 25 neighborhoods throughout Chicago, matching up a friendly and knowledgeable local volunteer with your group for a free, informal orientation that lasts anywhere from 2-4 hours and is customized based on your choice of neighborhoods, language and interests. ChicagoGreeter.com

Art Institute app The world-famous Chicago Art Institute is up on new technology, offering a free mobile app experience that blends locationaware technology for easy navigation with engaging audio tours that add to the experience with behind-the-scenes stories, expert opinions and background music. A valuable “look-it-up” feature allows you to learn more about the art that’s directly in front of you as well. 111 S. Michigan.

Artic.edu

The Chicago Cultural Center is not only one of the city’s most popular attractions, it’s also considered one of the most inclusive arts showcases in the country.

Built in 1897 and home to the largest Tiffany stainedglass dome in the world, it also boasts an incredible amount of free art exhibits, lectures, film screenings and performances every day of the week. Insider’s tip: Free 45-minute tours are offered at 1:15 p.m. from Wednesday-Saturday, departing from the Randolph Street lobby on the first floor. 78 E. Washington.

keymagazinechicago.com

MUST-DO LIST

Save big with CityPASS and Hot Tix Experience the best of Chicago with CityPASS, which will save you 51 percent at the following iconic stops: Skydeck at the Willis Tower, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Art Institute, Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science and Industry and 360 Chicago observation deck at the Hancock Building.

For $108 for adults and $89 for children (aged 3-11), you’ll get VIP admission — valid for nine consecutive days starting with the first day of use — at up to five of the aforementioned attractions in one convenient ticket booklet. And the ability to skip ticket lines doesn’t hurt either, especially in a city where there are so many things to see.

CityPass.com/Chicago Hot Tix is a valuable program from the non-profit League of Chicago Theatres that offers half-price tickets to a multitude of theatre productions throughout the city. Get information on what’s available at HotTix.org

Escape the unpredictable March weather with a visit to the free Lincoln Park Conservatory (2391 N. Stockton). The conservatory offers visitors a tropical experience through its four display houses. Insider’s tip: Save time for the splendid Orchid House. No matter the time of year, the conservatory is always green and rich — and next door to the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free every day of the year and offers plenty of exciting indoor viewing opportunities if the weather isn’t great. 2200 N. Cannon Dr. LPZoo.org

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Tours and more

Calling

SNL fans The Museum of Broadcast Communications has quite a hit on its hands with the critically acclaimed exhibition, Saturday Night Live: The Experience.

So much so that the 12,000-square-foot exhibition that offers a behind-the-scenes view of NBC’s iconic sketch comedy show has been extended through the end of March. Plenty of show memorabilia, famous skits and even photo opportunities at the Weekend Update desk or Wayne’s World basement await. But don’t delay, as it’s set to close March 31.

360 N. State. Museum.TV

TOUR SPOTLIGHT

Chicago Crime Tours

The history of Chicago’s crime underworld is a vast one, and there’s no better way to learn about some of the city’s most famous criminals, mobsters and gangsters ­— and explore a host of historic crime scenes — than jumping aboard Chicago Crime Tours’ luxury, climatecontrolled bus. 312-888-6224.

ChicagoCrimeTours.com

Big Bus Tours

Stay out of the iffy March weather and enjoy a climatecontrolled, hop-on, hop-off bus tour that includes stops all the iconic attractions and landmarks — 14 in all — from the Hancock Tower to the Adler Planetarium and Millennium Park. Discover your own Chicago favorites along the way and enjoy a variety of ticket options to customize your experience. 877-2854796. BigBusTours.com

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Chicago Detours

Offering fun and educational guided walking and bus tours of Chicago architecture, history and culture, Chicago Detours is focused on much more than just “the highlights.” Check out their 1893 Worlds Fair Tour for an enjoyable, insightful look into how and why the World’s Columbian Exposition still captures the imagination more than 125 years later. 312-3501131. ChicagoDetours.com

Chicago Architecture Center

Founded back in 1966, the Chicago Architecture Center is one of the largest cultural organizations in the city. If you like a wide variety of tours, this is the place to be, as the CAA offers some 85 different options for discovering the city, with topics ranging from historic neighborhoods and Chicago icons to Art Deco skyscrapers, murals and parks. 111 E. Wacker Dr. 312922-3432. Architecture.org

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Kids’ Corner

Candy, trains and Navy Pier 1 Want to reward your kids for something, or just looking to bring a smile to their faces? Check out the impressive selection at Candyality, with locations in Water Tower Place (835 N. Michigan, seventh floor) and a pair of popular Chicago neighborhoods (Southport Corridor and Andersonville), where satisfying the sweet tooth is their specialty.

Candyality.com

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When it comes to pure entertainment for the little ones — and adults, too, for that matter — near the top of the list has to be Navy Pier in general, and the Chicago Children’s Museum more specifically. In this active, expansive museum, kids can dig for dinosaur bones, race toy cars down ramps, scan items at a grocery store, test their building skills or help put out a fire. 600 E. Grand. ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org

Quite simply, the Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park is the kind of place where you can spend an entire day. The incredible train exhibit on the main floor is captivating, as is the film Oceans: Our Blue Planet in the Giant Dome Theater and the Science Storms exhibit. Venture down to the basement, and kids can pick corn aboard a combine, play in a waterworks playground and even milk a cow. 5700 S. Lake Shore. MSIChicago.org

TIME FOR A PIZZA PARTY In Chicago, our reputation for deep-dish pizza should not be ignored, no matter if you’re visiting for one night or a week.

Especially if you have kids because, let’s face it, it’s rare to find a child who isn’t a fan of cheesy pizza. Check out the 50-year institution that is Gino’s East (five locations; GinosEast.com).

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Museums

Animal chats at the Shedd Aquarium The daily aquatic presentations in the oceanarium — with beluga whales, sea lions and dolphins serving as the stars of the show — will delight the whole family. But that’s just the start, as the Shedd offers upclose, unforgettable encounters with 32,000 animals from aquatic environments around the world.

Take part one of the Shedd’s personalized animal chats by attending a diving session at the Caribbean Reef tank to speak with a diver as they feed the animals (daily at 10:30 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.) or learn from a shark expert at the Wild Reef exhibit at 11:15 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. each day (beluga whales/ seal lions and penguin chats available as well). 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. SheddAquarium.org

MORE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Whether you favor Dr. Seuss, Mark Twain or Bob Dylan, fans of the written word will enjoy the new American Writers Museum across the street from Millennium Park. 180 N. Michigan Ave. AmericanWritersMuseum.org The National Museum of Mexican Art showcases 3,000 years of creativity and diversity from both sides of the border.

1852 W. 19th St. NationalMuseumOfMexicanArt.org Chicago knows how to entertain a family. If you need help along the way, don’t forget to download our app KEYCHICAGO

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Get cultured

ART APPRECIATION Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

This family-friendly museum near the Lincoln Park Zoo boasts the new exhibit, A Life in the Wild, featuring the work of award-winning Thomas D. Mangelson. A wildlife photographer, Mangelson is known for capturing beautiful and exciting landscapes. The exhibit features 40 of his images, considered to be some of the best examples of wildlife photography in the world. Insider’s tip: Make sure to save time for a stroll through the magical Butterfly Haven. 2430 N. Cannon Dr. NatureMuseum.org

Chicago History Museum

ANCIENT TIMES

The dynamic Chicago History Museum, located just north of downtown in the Old Town neighborhood, has a number of fascinating exhibits and programs. Check out the Great Chicago Adventure Film, a lively presentation that transports visitors through Chicago’s vast history — the Great Chicago Fire, World’s Columbian Exposition, bustling Maxwell Street in the 1950s, construction of the Sears Tower in the 1970s, memorable sports triumphs and more. 1601 N. Clark.

ChicagoHistory.org

Art Institute The famed Chicago Art Institute is home to one of best, most expansive art collections anywhere in the world. In February, the Institute introduced a reimagined and reinstalled gallery of African art, offering a more intimate experience to illustrate the vastness and diversity of the continent as well as the relationships between neighboring cultures. Insider’s tip: Enhance your visit with an audio tour or the Institute’s free app. 159 E. Monroe. Artic.edu

Museum of Contemporary Art Check out satirical drawings, comics and textiles by Chicagobased artist Jessica Campbell, who uses a wide range of influences, including science fiction, her Evangelical upbringing and the world of politics to take aim at the sexism women face in the 21st century. 220 E. Chicago.

MCAChicago.org

If you want to learn about the diversity of life on Earth and its history, the Field Museum — with its nearly 40 million artifacts and specimens — needs to be on your to-do list. Check out the Robert R. McCormick Halls of the Ancient Americas for an immersive journey through 13,000 years of human creativity and achievement, ranging from hunters and gatherers to the Aztec and Inca empires and arrival of European settlers. 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. FieldMuseum.org Get the app keychicago

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New on the Scene hour, Tricycle has $5 select craft drafts and $7 wines and specialty cocktails from 4-6 p.m. 1700 N. Damen. TricycleChicago.com

Yugen

Tricycle From the owners of the local favorite Sheffield’s Beer & Wine Garden near Wrigley Field, this new cozy bar and restaurant in the trendy Bucktown neighborhood just north of downtown has been a hit since opening last fall. It features an original speakeasy bar, vintage tin ceiling, great cocktail and craft beer lists, and comfort food choices like sumac-dusted lamb chops, chicken potpie and shrimp and grits. For its weekday happy

Behind a creative, women-led team, this highly anticipated restaurant launched late last fall in the thriving West Loop neighborhood with a modern Japanese tasting menu and striking space. The dual-concept establishment also boasts a more casual lounge called Kaisho, an informal izakaya. 652 W. Randolph St., (312) 265-1008.

YugenChicago.com

Sex and the City pop-up Pop-up bars are all the rage these days, especially in Chicago, where a Game of Thrones experience awaits at Replay Lincoln Park (2833 N. Sheffield; ReplayLincolnPark. com). Launching just last month is the Cosmo Carrie’s popup bar inspired by the hit HBO series Sex and the City.

Cosmo Carrie’s is open 6 p.m.-midnight Wednesday-Saturday through March 20.

The décor will feature cutouts of favorite characters, and expect plenty of show-themed cocktails. Located below Ironside Bar & Galley at 546 N. Wells.

IronsideChicago.com

Barton G: Shock and awe your senses With its new 12,000-square-foot new home in Chicago’s vibrant Hubbard Street district, Barton G. The Restaurant will take you on an innovative, full-scale culinary adventure with the much-anticipated opening of its third establishment (Miami, L.A.).

For nearly 20 years, renowned restaurateur and special-event architect Barton G. Weiss has sought to treat guests to a multisensory experience that encourages interaction with fellow diners and an appreciation for delightfully creative, over-the-top dishes.

As a perfect complement to the restaurant’s dramatic design, lively atmosphere and elaborate food presentations, Barton G. offers an equally inspired cocktail program that features a Below Zero Nitro-Bar. Be prepared to feast your eyes on and charm your taste buds with their signature,

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Instagram-worthy creations from an awardwinning culinary team. In other words, it’s pure entertainment. 415 N. Dearborn. 312-2605050. BartonG.com

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Shopping

The Shops at North Bridge

Stretching across six blocks on the Magnificent Mile, The Shops at North Bridge is a sprawling four-level shopping and dining destination. There is much to explore, as the facility is anchored by Nordstrom and home to Eataly and more than 50 stores and restaurants, including BOSS, Stuart Weitzman, Louis Vuitton, UNTUCKit, Peloton, Joe’s Seafood and Shake Shack.

Services & amenities from the level-one concierge desk include same-day delivery service to your home, office or hotel for just $5, parking validations with a minimum $10 purchase, multilingual staff, tourist information, guidebooks to Chicago and much more. Stop by the concierge desk to check on current store sales throughout March as well.

Also in the building through March 31, check out the first Chicago pop-up store for Winky Lux, featuring nine transportive rooms that creatively celebrate the company’s unique beauty products and luxury makeup experience at an affordable price.

520 N. Michigan Ave. TheShopsAtNorthBridge.com

Andersonville If you’re looking for a quaint, diverse, treelined neighborhood full of splendid shopping opportunities, head north to Andersonville. Milk Handmade (5137 N. Clark) is a cute boutique specializing in women’s clothing, trendy jewelry and hand-crafted goods.

Visit Andersonville.org for more info.

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SHOPPING

SHOPPING SPOTLIGHT

MICHIGAN AVE. MAP presented by

ART & ANTIQUES

Oak

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Chanel Van Cleef & Arpels

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875 N. Michigan Ave. H&M Columbia

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American Girl Water Broadway Tower Playhouse Place Macy’s

Lookingglass Theatre

Chicago Polo/Ralph Lauren Banana Republc Victoria’s Secret

Superior

Neiman Marcus

Tiffany Saks Fifth Avenue

Huron

Walgreens

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

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Rush

Illinois

Stan’s Donuts

Zegna

Burberry

Labriola Ristorante & Cafe

Hugo Boss Stuart Weitzman Kiehls Shops at Northbridge The Purple Pig Starbucks

Texas de Brazil Dylan’s Candy Bar

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Hubbard

St. Clair

Rolex

Ontario

N W

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Kinzie Ghirardelli Wrigley Building

Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise

River

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with more than 700 dealers offering a diverse selection of antiques, collectibles, souvenirs, electronics, jewelry, food and more.

CLOTHING

Razny Jewelers

Razny Jewelers is proud to exclusively offer watches by Patek Philippe and Rolex in the city’s gorgeous Gold Coast neighborhood.

StopJOEL in toOPPENHEIMER their modern, three-level 10 E. Ohio, boutique for the city’s top watch 312.642.5300 selection and a well(G-29) River North of curated collection Browse ajewelry. stunningWith array designer of the finest examples the new addition of a watch-servicing center, of prints and paintings Razny now Chicago’s from is the golden age of inclusive natural one-stop history art.shop forArchival horology aficionados framing and and enthusiasts.

109 E. nationally recognized Oak. 312-663-8500. art conservation and Razny.com restoration services are also available.

LOTTON GALLERY 900 N. Michigan, level 6 312.664.6203 (J-26) Gold Coast Peruse hand-blown glasswork made in-house by the Lotton family experts. Elegant selections of fine art, The Jimmy Choo brand vases, lamps, bowls, can trace itsand roots to chandeliers original apaintings London from shoemaker around in the early 1990s the world provide who catered to a another shopping sophisticated clientele dimension. with fashionable designs and Italian craftmanship.

WOLFF’S Today, women’s shoes remain the company’s FLEA MARKET focus, alongside 6920 N. Mannheim, handbags, small leather 847.524.9590 goods, sunglasses, (Suburban) Rosemont eyewear, belts and Sundays are treasuremen’s shoes.

114 E. Oak anddays in suburban hunting at the Rosemont the Fashion Midwest’satlargest allOutletsflea Chicago. outdoor market, JimmyChoo.com

Jimmy Choo

REI

AKIRA 108 N. State, At REI, they believe that 312.346.3355 a life outdoors is a life (I-34) Loop well lived, and they’ve Tailored fashions vary been sharing that for each citywide locafor clothing, tion,passion all crammed with hiking gear, sporting popular designer brands goods and classes since and trendy sartorial elegance.

1938. Their Lincoln Park store is moving from DESIGNER RESALEto a 1466 N. Halsted OF new CHICAGO 40,000-square658foot N. Dearborn, facility at 1422 N. 312.587.3312 Kingsbury between (H-29) River North March 18-22, and that Chicago’s means best-kept plenty of sales, secret/women’s especially on outgoing consignment boutique winter clothing. REI.com carries high-end designer labels including Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Christian Louboutin and more, all at bargain prices.

MARY WALTER 33 W. Superior, 312.266.1094 (H-29) River North This popular women’s boutique specializes in as Originally opened unique and wearable a drugstore on the clothing.

Attentive north side in 1875, the stafffamily-owned members play Merz personal stylists,a Chicago has become whether you’re looking landmark (and regular forstop “business as usual,” for tour buses) for fashion chicinorhard-to-find casual. the best perfumes and colognes, as well as specialty bath DEPARTMENT soaps, fragrant candles, shaving products and STORES natural health items.

17 E. Monroe and BLOOMINGDALE’S 4716 N. Lincoln Ave. 900 N. Michigan, MerzApothecary.com

Merz Apothecary

Friends.” For show schedule, visit PorchlightMusicTheatre.org

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restaurants

The best of Mexico TOPOLOBAMPO

When discussing Mexican restaurants in Chicago, we’d be remiss not to discuss the impact of celebrity chef Rick Bayless, who has a passion for the regional specialties south of the border.

His award-winning Frontera Grill and Topolobampo (both at 445 N. Clark) offer casual Mexican dining at its most colorful and creative, with a rotating menu consisting of fresh, organic ingredients. “There’s nothing even remotely similar to Frontera … anywhere else in the world,” according to the New York Times. Don’t forget the wood-oven tortas and fresh hot chocolate at his Xoco next door (449 N. Clark).

And he’s recently added the Baja seafood-focused Leña Brava (900 W. Randolph) and Oaxacan-style taqueria and brewery Cruz Blanca (904 W. Randolph), along with Bar Sótano, a speakeasy-type cocktail bar below Frontera Grill.

RickBayless.com/restaurants

SU CASA

Signature guacamoles, award-winning tacos, plenty of specialty tequila and a young, hip crowd are the norm at Mercadito. Don’t forget to head downstairs to the La Mez Agave Lounge, which boasts an incredible list of more than 75 mezcals. 108 W. Kinzie. 312-329-9555.

MercaditoRiverNorth.com

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Swing by Su Casa in the heart of River North for an authentic Mexican ambiance and meal.

The fresh guacamole, strawberry margaritas and chicken enchiladas are worth the trip, and the hefty burritos are ideal to fill you up for a day of sightseeing or shopping, as the Mag Mile is just steps away.

49 E. Ontario. 312-943-4041.

keymagazinechicago.com

Cantina Laredo is known for modern, high-end Mexican lunch and dinner specialties, but don’t overlook the new brunch menu at this River North hotspot with wall-to-wall glass paneling and chic fireplaces.

Try the seasonal ceviche (a refreshing mix of melons and shrimp) and the skirt steak topped with chimichurri, fluffy scrambled eggs and potatoes.

508 N. State. 312-955-0014.

CantinaLaredo.com For a legit experience in Mexican culture and food, head south of downtown to the Pilsen neighborhood, a colorful collection of galleries, murals, restaurants, coffee houses and vintage stores near 18th Street.

A popular tequila bar (try the fresh fruit margaritas) is Del Toro, where they serve up a spicy habanero burger that will have you reaching for a cold cerveza. 2133 S. Halsted. 312733-7144. DelToroChicago.com

Quarter Pg. India House Ad-03.qxp_Layout 1 11/3

INDIA HOUSE FINE DINING RESTAURANT

Proudly serving Chicagoland for over 20 years!

59 W. GRAND AVE. | (312)645-9500 WWW.INDIAHOUSECHICAGO.COM

@indiahousechi

/indiahouserestaurants

434 W. Ontario St. & 1416 S. Michigan Ave. VictoryTapChicago.com

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restaurants

Affordable eats

VICTORY TAP Texas de Brazil’s endless assortment of seasoned beef, lamb, pork, chicken and Brazilian sausage cooked over a wood charcoal grill, then skewered and served tableside the festive “churrasco way” is a sight to behold. And reasonable, too, at $26.99 for lunch and $49.99 for dinner (including an extravagant salad bar). Making this popular chain even more enticing is the weekday happy hour from 4:30-6 p.m. with specials like $3 domestic beers, $5 glasses of a private-label wine, $5 caipirinhas and well cocktails and $7 martinis. 210 E. Upper Illinois. 312-595-0913.

TexasDeBrazil.com An ideal spot for happy hour, dinner or a lateevening cocktail, Victory Tap is where to indulge in some old-school Italian cooking and personalized pizzas in an upscale tavern atmosphere. Joe’s Mama’s meatballs will delight your palate, as will the homemade agnolotti pasta. It’s affordable too, as appetizer pizzas perfect for sharing run $13-$15, hearty pastas are $15-20 and flavorful chicken, veal and pork entrees are just $25-28. Happy hour deals start early, running 3-6 p.m. 1416 S. Michigan. 312496-3862. VictoryTapChicago.com

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Korean BBQ

For some stellar, well-priced Korean barbecue, a popular local go-to is Del Seoul in Lincoln Park. It’s a casual, quick and delicious dine-in or take-out experience. Recommended: the kalbi (grilled beef short rib), wings, spicy barbecue pork tacos, Seoulstyle street dumplings and the kimchi fries. 2568 N. Clark. DelSeoul.com

1112 S.WABASH

BREAKFAST ALL DAY

Old School Diner & Delicatessen

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restaurants

Dining deals around town and include $6 antipasti snacks (whipped ricotta with roasted tomato and country bread, fried calamari, Nonna’s meatballs, etc.), and half off cocktails and beer.

925 W. Randolph. 312-690-7295.

Formentos.com

The Chicago Firehouse Labriola

Blending Italian traditions with an innovative dining experience, Labriola has rapidly established itself as a reliable go-to spot on Michigan Avenue. Whether you’re in the mood for salads, soups, sandwiches, Neopolitan pizza, hearty pasta options or other upscale Italian specialties, it’s all here. Looking for a deal on the Mag Mile? Pull up a seat at the bar for happy hour from 4-7 p.m. that includes $5 draft beers, $5 house wines, $5 well drinks and complimentary pizza at the bar. 535 N. Michigan. 312-955-3100. LaBriolaCafe.com

Formento’s

CHICAGO CURRY HOUSE

The ambiance and old-school Italian vibe will draw you in, especially the oversized red leather booths. The venison, scallops and handmade pastas are recommended, especially the cannestri with Sunday “gravy.” Don’t leave without trying the dark chocolate mousse cake with a touch of hazelnut praline crunch. Formento’s happy hour specials in the bar & lounge area last from 4:30-6:30 p.m.

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Head to the South Loop gem for some of the best Indian-Nepalese cuisine in Chicago in an elegant, relaxed setting.

Recommended: the lamb mimosas with tamarind and mint cilantro chutney or the flavorful chicken tikka. Looking to maximize your dollars while getting your fill between sightseeing stops? Try the lunch buffet from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., where you’ll get to sample 22 dishes for just $13. 899 S Plymouth Ct. CurryHouseOnline.com

keymagazinechicago.com

This gorgeous steakhouse housed in a historic landmark building (112-year-old actual firehouse) in the South Loop has a new happy hour menu available every day in the bar/lounge area from 4-6 p.m. Start off the night with one of their small plates like the chilled oysters ($1.75 each), fried calamari ($6.50), firecracker shrimp ($7) or short-rib poutine ($5) and then grab a discounted drink from a happy hour list that includes a rotating cocktail of the month ($6), Revolution Anti-Hero IPA or Stella Artois ($3.50), Moody Tongue Chocolate Churro Baltic Porter ($4) and a selection of Napa Valley wines by the glass ($5). 1401 S. Michigan Ave. 312-786-1401.

ChicagoFirehouse.com

Project1_Layout 1 6/18/15 7:10 AM Page 1

Prix-fixe perfection

Sixth Pg. Su Casa Ad-03_Layout 1 10/6/14 9:03

Routinely considered one of the best steakhouses in a city that knows a thing or two about steak, Morton’s provides the best of what Chicago dining has to offer. Check out the Wacker Place location’s three-course prime lunch option ($35.50) that offers entrée options like a grilled nine-ounce ribeye with mashed potatoes, crab cake BLT or shrimp scampi capellini. Don’t, whatever you do, skip out on the New York cheesecake for dessert. 65 E. Wacker Place. 312201-0410 (and 1050 N. State). Mortons.com One of Chicago’s favorite Italian restaurants for better than 20 years, 312 Chicago is housed in a historic building in the middle of the Loop, and it’s particularly popular for pre-theatre meals and business lunches. An inviting atmosphere, flavorful Italian cuisine and an extensive wine and cocktail program work to make this a memorable spot to dine. Now add in a three-course, $42 prix-fixe dinner menu (with optional wine pairing for $22 more) with options like homemade tortelloni, roasted Faroe Island salmon or grilled bone-in pork chop, and you’re set. 136 N La Salle St, (312) 696-2420. 312Chicago.com

Mexican Cuisine since 1963

49 East Ontario Street (312)943-4041 | sucasamexican.com

HAPPY HOUR FUN

The Wicker Park neighborhood just northwest of downtown is one of the trendiest in all of Chicago, with a plethora of great dining options.

If you’re looking for a discounted drink or two at happy hour while waiting for your dinner reservation down the street, check out Estelle’s, which offers half off cocktails, craft beer and wine Monday-Friday from 5-7 p.m. 2013 W. North Ave. EstellesChicago.com Get the app keychicago

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RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHTS

Nepal House

Wildfire

Eleven City Diner

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.

Their stellar chicken and lamb dishes are roasted in a clay oven and incredibly tender.

Don’t forget to start things off with an order of tasty samosas or momos. 1301 S. Michigan. 312-922-0601.

NepalHouseOnline.com

This bustling, upscale restaurant features some of the best steaks, chops and seafood in the city in a modern-day 1940s dinner club atmosphere. Start the evening off right by grabing a seat in Wildfire’s martini lounge on a weeknight to enjoy half-price appetizers and daily drink specials from 3-6 p.m. 159 W. Erie. 312-787-9000.

WildfireRestaurant.com/ Chicago

Considered to be “a hybrid of sincere respect for what family dining rooms used to be,” this old-school diner and delicatessen knows what a plate of scrumptious, ribsticking food can do for the soul. Classic deli sandwiches stacked tall, decadent burgers and melts, and loaded breakfast favorites highlight the menu. 1112 S. Wabash St. 312-212-1112.

ElevenCityDiner.com

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Friends.” For show schedule, visit PorchlightMusicTheatre.org

Goodman’s Albert Theatre.

GoodmanTheatre.org

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Nightlife

March Madness is upon us It’s the best time of year to be a basketball fan. And a sports fan in general. Here are a couple lively spots to catch all the hoops action in Chicago this week during the NCAA Tournament.

Trophy Room

Head to Trophy Room in River North for a bit of everything when it comes to Chicago nightlife. Massive, modern sports bar by day before turning into more of a nightclub late at night, it’s ideal for watching college hoops with its stone-fired pizza with a sourdough crust (baked at 600 degrees), as well as a menu filled with tacos, burgers, wings, hand-battered cheese sticks and plenty of local brews and signature cocktails. Some 35 TVs too. They have $2 tacos on Thursdays, and on Fridays, get a burger, fries and beer for $10. For March Madness, Trophy Room opens at 10 a.m. and HARD TO DESCRIBE. EASY TO LOVE.

NEW MUSIC BIG LAUGHS

MORE FUN TICKETS AT BLUEMAN.COM

800.982.2787

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offers buckets of domestic beer for $25 and Corona for $30.

Quite a rooftop lounge too, for when the weather breaks. 170 W. Ontario. TrophyRoomBar.com

Kroll’s South Loop

Kroll’s is a classic neighborhood bar and grill in the South Loop offering daily drink specials and an extensive list of 99 different beers, $5 food and drink specials on Thursdays, half off appetizers from 5-7 p.m. on Fridays and a solid weekend brunch starting at 11 a.m. Enjoy a loaded menu of American-style food, including charcoal-grilled burgers, sandwiches, wraps and pizzas to go with more than 20 flat screens and four large projector screens to catch all the action. Expect plenty of March Madness specials and a favoritism toward the Wisconsin Badgers. 1736 S. Michigan. Krolls-Chicago.com

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Curtain call

Stage and music ON STAGE

Southern Gothic

Based on the iconic children’s books about how a small bear’s search for a missing button leads to the friendship of a lifetime, the Emerald City Theatre is performing the Chicago premiere of Corduroy at the Athenaeum Theatre through April 20. 2936 N. Southport. 773-935-6875.

EmeraldCityTheatre.com

Enjoy a theatric twist with the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, as the Shakespeare Pub gets transformed into a performance venue for award-winning Irish novelist Roddy Doyle’s “breathtakingly funny” touring dialogue Two Pints, consisting of two men sharing a wide-ranging conversation about life, loss and vegetarianism. Through March 31 at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. 312-595-6500.

ChicagoShakes.com

Djembe! The Show

Southern Gothic brings you inside a 1960s birthday party, where a group of old friends gathers for a night of celebration, but slowly unravels the secrets they’ve been holding onto for years. With just 30 audience members per performance, this immersive production welcomes you to wander about the “set” at your own leisure as the juicy drama unfolds. Playing at Windy City Playhouse South. 2229 S. Michigan Ave. 773-893-8985.

WindyCityPlayhouse.com

Fresh off a hit international tour and making its U.S. premiere at the Apollo Theatre, this interactive, energy-filled show offers the opportunity to revel in rhythm with a world-class collection of performers.

Called “an intoxicating and liberating experience” by critics, audiences will be entertained by powerful storytelling and uplifting music. Plays March 19-June 9. 2450 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-935-6100.

DjembeTheShow.com

Giordano Dance

Little Shop of Horrors

Catch the Spring Engagement of the critically acclaimed Giordano Dance Chicago at the Harris Theater at Millennium Park on March 22-23. Featuring the world premiere of Flickers by renowned choreographer Marinda Davis, in addition to selections from Giordano’s own repertoire. 7:30 p.m. both nights. 205 E. Randolph. 312334-7777. GiordanoDance.org

This fan favorite around the globe for better than 30 years and winner of numerous best-musical awards takes over the historic Mercury Theater Chicago. Watch as a floral assistant stumbles across a new breed of carnivorous plant that promises to grant him fame, fortune and all his desires… for a price. 3745 N. Southport. 773-325-1700.

MercuryTheaterChicago.com Get the app keychicago

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Year of Chicago Theatre The Year of Chicago Theatre is a year-long, citywide initiative that places a spotlight on Chicago’s vibrant theatre scene — including improv comedy, dance, opera, puppetry and more — at hundreds of cultural venues, theaters and parks throughout the city.

Playwright Joshua Harmon takes aim at thorny, contemporary issues like political correctness, college applications and quotas, and racial diversity in private schools with plenty of satiric wit in his newest play, Admissions. Called “a smart, provocative drama” by the Hollywood Reporter, Admissions is making its Midwest premiere at Theater Wit in the Lakeview neighborhood.

Running through May 12. 1229 N. Belmont Ave. 773-975-8150. TheaterWit.org Based on the critically acclaimed play that inspired the classic film, A Bronx Tale, the Broadway hit musical is in Chicago just through March 24. The story, from Academy Award nominee Chazz Palminteri, is about an impressionable but streetwise boy who finds himself caught between the father he loves and the local mob boss he’d love to be in 1960s New York.

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Directed by Academy Award winner Robert De Niro and Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, this sharp-witted musical is “wonderful and refreshing … the kind of tale that makes you laugh and cry,” according to the New York Times. A Bronx Tale plays at the James M. Nederlander Theatre (formerly the Oriental Theatre) through March 24. 24 W. Randolph St. BroadwayInChicago.com

Stretch your dollars. Ignite your soul.

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