Lavish Magazine Hard Rock Hotel Chicago by Lavish Magazine

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Lavish, LLC

CONTENTS

GUEST SERVICES

35 E. Wacker Dr., 9th fl. Chicago, IL 60601 Toll-free: 800.7.LAVISH Tel: 312.854.7055 Fax: 312.376.1596 info@lavishchicago.com lavishmagazine.com

HARD ROCK GUEST DIRECTORY

LAVISH MAGAZINE STAFF

HISTORIC ROOTS

SHARIF NASSR

FUN FACTS

HARD ROCK MEMORABILIA

HARD ROCK HOTEL CHICAGO MEMORABILIA

IN THIS ISSUE

President Group Publisher ANGELA DANSBY Editor-in-Chief

BUSINESS SERVICES

SCOUT DRISCOLL

BUSINESS CENTER

INTERNET ACCESS

MEETING ROOM MAP

TELEPHONE SERVICES

Creative Director Lead Designer DAVID LESLIE ANTHONY Photographer KRISTYN SCHIAVONE

EATS AND DRINKS

Associate Editor

IN-ROOM DINING

REFRESHMENT CENTER

BASE BAR

CHINA GRILL/GLOBE BAR

ICE MACHINES

LAUREN SVOBODA

FREE GIBSON GUITAR RENTAL

MUSIC CHANNELS

DIANE MOLHO JENNIFER OLVERA NICOLE SULLIVAN

“THE SOUND OF YOUR STAY”

TELEVISION CHANNELS

ERICK HOFFMANN JEREMY PETTIS JONATHAN WAROBICK Associate Designers

Assistant Editor

MEDIA AND MUSIC

PERSONAL SERVICES CONCIERGE

FITNESS CENTER

LAUNDRY

LOST AND FOUND

LUGGAGE ASSISTANCE

PET CARE

ROCK SHOP

SHOE SHINE

SPA SERVICES

SWIMMING POOL

TURNDOWN SERVICE

VALET

WAKE-UP CALL

SAVE YOURSELF OR THE PLANET LOSS PREVENTION AND EVACUATION PLAN

GREEN INITIATIVES

MAP

DINING

FASHION

FEATURE

GOLD COAST, MAG MILE & STREETERVILLE GEMS

THE ITALIAN TOUCH

SIR ALFRED DIMORA: RETURN OF THE KING

Contributing Writers DIANA LAZU Managing Director Director of Events JOSEPH BADALAMENTI Advertising Director AMELIA JEE Account Manager JESSICA RUVALCABA Office Manager

LETTERS

FASHION

SHOPPING

12 FROM THE PUBLISHER

60 THE ITALIAN TOUCH

118 DESIGNER DIGS

12 FROM THE HARD ROCK

70 I LIKE TO WATCH

122 MAG MILE MALLS

86 DEFINING MOMENT

124 BOUTIQUES: NORTH

HARD ROCK HOTEL CHICAGO STAFF

126 BOUTIQUES: WEST

JOHN PRICE

NIGHTLIFE 28 LIVE MUSIC MAGIC

BEAUTY

32 NOTORIOUS NIGHTCLUBS

92 NATURAL GOODNESS

34 LUXURIOUS LIBATIONS

FEATURE

DINING 38 GOLD COAST, MAG MILE & STREETERVILLE

96 SIR ALFRED DIMORA: RETURN OF THE KING

42 RIVER NORTH

CULTURE

46 LOOP & WEST LOOP

108 MUSEUM MUSINGS

50 LINCOLN PARK

112 ONLY IN CHICAGO

54 OFF THE BEATEN PATH

114 A SLICE OF CHI

56 CULINARY MASTERS

Cover: model photo by David Leslie Anthony; model: Rose, Ford Models Chicago; styled by Helen Berkun, make-up by Maggie Kerr, hair by Christina Culinski, all for Ford Artists. Base Bar photo from Hard Rock Hotel Chicago.

VICTORIA VALENTINE Distribution Manager

128 BOUTIQUES: BUCKTOWN & WICKER PARK

LISTINGS

General Manager BENJAMIN DUVERGE Director of Operations

132 Chicago Books & Movies 134 Dining: Old Favorites/ Newer Greats 135 Nightlife: Clubs/Concierges/ Late-Night Bites 136 Hotel Lounges/Lounges 137 Live Music/Performing Arts 138 Wine/Suds/Classes 139 Sports Activities/ Sports Bars/Pubs 140 Shopping: Men’s/Women’s 141 Spa Spaces/Pet Places 142 Art Galleries/Museums 143 Ways to See Chicago/ Parks & Recreation

ADVERTISE WITH US For advertising inquiries, please call 800.7.LAVISH.

A Publication of Lavish, LLC ©2010 Lavish, LLC Lavish, LLC & Lavish Magazine are not responsible for any artwork or photographs used in any advertisement within this publication, at lavishmagazine.com, within e-mail newsletters or mobile messaging promotions.

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER LETTER FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

Welcome to the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago!

Lavish Lifestyle

hicago is well known for many reasons. First and foremost, it boasts one of the world’s most gorgeous skylines thanks to

an outstanding architectural legacy. It’s also home

OF ALL THE ROOMS in all the hotels in all the cities in

to some of the world’s finest restaurants, shopping

the world, you chose us! For that, we are very grateful and promise to commit to your needs during your time with us.

experiences, indoor and outdoor entertainment

If you came on business, we have you covered: wireless high-speed Internet access, a 24-hour business center and even temporary help — Arron in the business center can whip out a pretty good PowerPoint when the chips are down. We get that you need efficiency, rest and coffee on the way out the door, and we can do all of that. Join our All Access loyalty program and it gets even easier. Talk to Mar at the front desk. She will give you the skinny for next time.

If you’re here because your boss wants you to attend a meeting, we sympathize, but you’re in store for brilliantly prepared food and some pretty cool aftermeeting cocktailing in Base Bar. (Roger makes a mean vodka martini there.) Our banquet staff is top notch and if you need that extra flip chart to make your point, ask for Gabriel — he’s got a ton of charts in the back. Hopefully, you’ll have time to talk to Todd, Scott or Paula, our version of Peter, Paul and Mary at the concierge desk. They can tell you where to go, how to get there and how to hail a cab back to the hotel if fun is the purpose of your stay. Check out China Grill right off the historic elevator lobby for a cool twist on pan-Asian cuisine. General Manager Gerry and his team are not to blame if you leave hungry — bring friends, as the portions are Chicago-style! Whatever your game is while in town, the Hard Rock team is here to rock your stay and leave you wanting more. Happy travels!

venues, culture and attractions, making your visit to Chicago a memorable one every time. In our first-ever issue of Lavish magazine,

published specifically for the world’s finest hotel properties, we proudly highlight the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago (p. 14). Housed in an official Chicago landmark, the hotel adds to the building’s history with years of rock and roll memorabilia. Complementing this collection are music-oriented Hard Rock programs, such as “Check In, Rock Out,” a partnership with Gibson Guitars that loans you a guitar to literally rock out in your room. And you can download an iTunes playlist on the Hard Rock to remember “The Sound of Your Stay.” Base Bar and China Grill complete the Hard Rock experience with handmade cocktails and fine Asian fusion cuisine, respectively.

But the fun doesn’t stop in the hotel. Lavish

offers a comprehensive guide to Chicago hot spots for dining (p. 38), shopping (p. 118), entertainment

In addition to all things Chicago, Lavish

gives you a glimpse of luxury outside the borders of our fair city. Sir Alfred DiMora, founder and CEO of DiMora Motorcar, DiMora Custom Bikes, DiMora Watercraft, DiMora Customs and DiMora Jewelry, designs the extraordinary. For example, his forthcoming Natalia SLS 2, a $2 million sport luxury sedan, will be the world’s fastest, most technologically savvy and luxurious four-door car in transportation history. Imagine a car body made of aerospace materials, exterior paint that changes color with temperature, video-projecting headlights, temperature-controlled beverage holders, retractable TV screens, business equipment and more in your ride. Read about DiMora’s fascinating imagination and personal story on page 96.

For luxury in smaller packages, check out

newer, cutting-edge beauty products inside. The future of cosmetics means goodbye to chemicallybased makeup and hello to ingredients with natural healing powers (p. 92).

Lavish magazine defies the traditional hierarchy

among magazine titles and sets publication standards high. The methodology is simple: focus on integrity and quality. This approach gives rise to a publication worthy of its name, Lavish.

Thank you for looking at our inaugural issue

and enjoy Chicago!

(p. 28) and sightseeing (p. 108) from locals’ points of view (yes, even native Chicagoans hit up Navy Pier and “The Bean” from time to time). This publication will give you everything you need for tourism and personal services — from ticket prices

SHARIF NASSR

to hours of operation to walking distance from the

President/Publisher

Hard Rock Hotel Chicago in our listings (p. 132).

Lavish, LLC | Lavish magazine

Foodies should check out our scoop on Chicago’s culinary masters (p. 56). Trust us, this town takes its food seriously.

John Price, General Manager

HARD ROCK HOTEL CHICAGO GUEST DIRECTORY

Historic Roots

The Hard Rock Hotel Chicago lives in the

Carbide and Carbon Building, an official Chicago landmark designed in 1929 by Burnham Brothers, Inc., a.k.a. Daniel and Hubert Burnham, sons of legendary architect and urban planner Daniel H. Burnham. The building was originally constructed as the headquarters of the Union Carbide and Carbon Corporation (later known as Union Carbide Corporation). This office tower was turned into the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago in 2004 following $106 million in renovations. Today, the building has 40 floors and stands 503 feet tall.

Rumor has it that the Burnham brothers

chose dark green and gold for the Carbide and Carbon Building’s exterior based on a gold-foiled champagne bottle they saw at an office holiday party. The tower is dark green terra cotta accented with 24-karat gold leaf and the base is covered in black polished granite. This color combination and Art Deco style make the building distinctive on the Chicago skyline. That’s been especially true

Fun Facts:

• The top exterior of the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago was

since November 2007, when the tower became

featured in an opening scene of the 2008 film “Wanted,”

permanently illuminated at night. It’s not hard to

starring Angelina Jolie, James McAvoy and Morgan

imagine a champagne bottle when viewing the building as a green bottle with “bubbly” gold

Freeman. • The official opening ceremony of the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago included celebrities like actress Carmen Electra

flowing from the top down.

and musician Dave Navarro.

• In the 2001-04 hotel renovation, 7,700 blocks of terra

The Art Deco style of the exterior is mirrored

inside with fine bronze work and black marble.

cotta were pulled off the exterior of the building and

The ground floor was originally designed to

replaced.

display products of Union Carbide and Carbon Corporation subsidiaries. The former retail space

• According to local legend, the Carbide and Carbon Building was the inspiration for the apartment building in the movie “Ghostbusters.” It can also be seen in the movie

on the north side was converted into the Hard

“Home Alone.”

Rock Hotel’s main lobby and the original lobby on

• At different times, the Carbide and Carbon Building was

Michigan Ave. has been preserved as the hotel’s

the home of WFMF (100.3 FM) and WJJD (1160 AM) radio

elevator lobby. More history is captured in the hotel’s rock and roll memorabilia on each

stations as well as an aircraft beacon.

guest floor.

• The gold accents on the top exterior of the building are real gold. The 24-karat gold leaf is 1/5000-inch thick. • The Carbide and Carbon Building was claimed to be the world’s first fully-colored skyscraper.

Hard Rock Memorabilia

In the early 1970s, celebrities hung out at the London Hard Rock Café, which was considered the place to be at that time. Frequent visitor Eric Clapton asked our founders to hang his guitar over his favorite bar stool to mark his “spot,” which they did. One week later, a package arrived with a guitar and a note stating: “Mine’s as good as his! Love, Pete.” The author was Pete Townshend, guitarist of The Who. Soon after, singer/songwriter Deborah Harry of Blondie fame donated a sweater and bra to the café’s wall. Tens of thousands of acquisitions have followed since. Memorabilia are acquired through auctions, private vendors, donors and artists. The Hard Rock Café International goes to great lengths to ensure that artifacts are genuine. All acquisitions require the artist or vendor to supply documentation of the item and a photo of the item in use. If a photo cannot be located, artists may submit a posed photo of themselves with the item. Because the Hard Rock has the largest visual history of rock and roll on the globe, celebrity artist Andy Warhol dubbed it the “Smithsonian of rock and roll.” Today, more than 70,000 pieces of memorabilia are displayed worldwide by the Hard Rock Café International, including the following sacred objects: •

The Beatles’ “Magical Mystery Tour” bus

• Buddy

Holly’s popular black glasses

❶ GUITARIST DUANE ALLMAN’S 1954 FENDER STRATOCASTER, ONE OF THE FIRST STRATS EVER MADE

❶

•

Elvis Presley’s 1976 Harley Davidson motorcycle with custom blue and gold finish • Jimi

Hendrix’s Gibson Flying V guitar used on “Rainbow Bridge”

➋ BO DIDDLEY’S FIRST HANDMADE GUITAR FROM 1945 • Madonna’s

❷

wedding dress from her “Like a Virgin” album and

performance at MTV’s 1984 Video Music Awards • Singer Jim Morrison’s famous brown cowhide pants worn at

The Doors’ 1968 show at the Hollywood Bowl and on the cover of the “Absolutely Live” album •

John Lennon’s original “Give Peace a Chance” drawing that hung on the window behind

his and Yoko Ono’s bed Some of the most obscure objects in the Hard Rock collection include:

❸ PEARL JAM FRONTMAN EDDIE VEDDER’S GUITAR WITH LYRICS WRITTEN ON TOILET PAPER TAPED TO THE SIDE

•A

❹

snow globe from atop Courtney Love’s and Nirvana singer Kurt Cobain’s wedding cake • Stevie

Wonder’s diploma from Xavier University printed in Braille

❹ THE FRONT DOORS OF ABBEY ROAD STUDIOS, WHERE THE BEATLES DID MANY

❸

OF THEIR RECORDINGS

• Dreadlocks

from Culture Club singer/songwriter Boy George and funk

legend George Clinton

➎ JOHN LENNON’S HANDWRITTEN NOTES FOR HIS BOOK “A SPANIARD IN THE WORKS” WRITTEN ON AN AIRSICKNESS BAG

•A

trash can owned and used by Elvis Presley

•A

quilt commissioned by Frank Zappa made entirely of bras and panties that

were thrown onto the stage during his shows

➎

Hard Rock Hotel Chicago Memorabilia This hotel boasts its own fantastic rock and roll memorabilia.

The following items will give you an excuse to get off the elevator on every floor:

23rd Floor “THE OBJECT” (BLACK OBELISK-LIKE REPLICA) ON THE COVER OF LED ZEPPELIN’S ALBUM “PRESENCE”

22nd Floor LENNY KRAVITZ’S TIE-DYED SHIRT AND LEATHER PANTS

20th Floor KISS LEAD VOCALIST AND BASSIST GENE SIMMONS’ “PUNISHER” BASS GUITAR

18th Floor TINA TURNER’S AUTOGRAPHED BLACK-FRINGED SKIRT AND JACKET

16th Floor PRINCE’S WHITE LONG-SLEEVE SILK SHIRT WORN ON 1988 “LOVESEXY” WORLD TOUR

14th Floor ELTON JOHN’S RED MEDIEVAL-STYLE COAT WORN AT ELVIS PRESLEY’S BIRTHDAY PARTY IN 1971

11th Floor AC/DC FRONTMAN BRIAN JOHNSON’S BLACK T-SHIRT AND DENIM VEST WORN ON THE “BLOW UP YOUR VIDEO” TOUR AND GIBSON EPIPHONE SG GUITAR SIGNED BY BRIAN AND MALCOLM AND ANGUS YOUNG

9th Floor KEYBOARD SIGNED BY ROBERT LAMM, LEAD VOCALIST AND KEYBOARDIST OF THE BAND CHICAGO AND YAMAHA TROMBONE SIGNED BY THE BAND

21st Floor NO MEMORABILIA ON THIS HISTORIC FLOOR, PRESERVED TO ITS ORIGINAL DESIGN

19th Floor JIMI HENDRIX’S GIBSON GUITAR PURCHASED DURING THE 1967 “SUMMER OF LOVE” AT MANNY’S MUSIC IN NEW YORK

17th Floor ANNIE LENNOX’S CUT GLASS NECKLACE FROM A SHOOT WITH FAMED PHOTOGRAPHER LYNN GOLDSMITH

15th Floor ELVIS PRESLEY’S BROWN SUEDE COAT WORN ON THE ALBUM “FLAMING STAR”

12th Floor GRAPHITE STATUS BUZZARD BASS GUITAR, WINDSONG ACOUSTIC BASS GUITAR AND VINTAGE AMPEG BASS USED BY JOHN ENTWISTLE FROM THE WHO

10th Floor MADONNA’S SHEER BLACK DRESS WORN ON “BLOND AMBITION” TOUR

8th Floor JAPANESE FLAG SUIT DESIGNED FOR CHEAP TRICK’S THIRD JAPAN TOUR IN 1980, WORN BY LEAD GUITARIST RICK NIELSEN AS WELL AS HIS MATCHING HAMER JAPANESE FLAG GUITAR

7th Floor B.B. KING’S GIBSON “LUCILLE” GUITAR WITH HIS SIGNATURE

5th Floor JOHN LENNON’S BLACK LEATHER COAT AND CHET ATKINS MODEL GRETSCH GUITAR

3rd Floor ROLLING STONES GUITARIST KEITH RICHARDS’ BLACK VELVET SUIT

6th Floor BOB DYLAN’S FADED LEVI JEANS AND GIBSON GUITAR

4th Floor AEROSMITH SINGER STEVEN TYLER’S HAND-PAINTED VEST, RED PANTS AND SIGNATURE SCARVES

Lobby SILVER JUMPSUIT AND PAIR OF PLATFORM SHOES WORN BY JAMES YOUNG OF STYX DURING A PERFORMANCE IN TOKYO IN 1982

HOTEL SERVICES Business

MEETING ROOMS

The catering office is available at ext. 6733.

BUSINESS CENTER – EXT. 6433

Located on the 3rd floor with 24/7 access via your room key, the business center offers PC stations with Internet access and Microsoft Office programs, a fax and copy machine. Scans are available when an attendant is on duty Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. Documents can be printed from your room in the business center by following these instructions: 1. Save your work. It cannot be printed otherwise. 2. If you are connected to the Global Suite Internet, on the login page, select Free Websites. If you are not connected, go to http://services.globalsuite.net. 3. Select Printing Services, then Printer (there is only one in the business center; it is on the desk at the left). 4. Type in your e-mail. This is used to send you a six-digit Print ID Number. 5. Browse to your saved work and upload it to the web site. Select Print Now. 6. Record your Print ID Number or open your e-mail that sends you this number. 7. You have 24 hours to retrieve your print job in the business center or the server will drop it and you will have to reprint. 8. Go to the business center and look for a PIN pad labeled PrintMe. 9. Enter your six-digit Print ID Number and the printer will download and print your document.

Call/Area Code

Cost

Instructions

INTERNET ACCESS

Local Downtown (312)

$1.50 per call

9+1+area code+number

Both wired and wireless access are available for a nominal fee.

Local City of Chicago (773)

$2.50 per call

9+1+area code+number

A connection cable is located in the desk drawer and wireless

Local Suburban (630), (708), (847) $1.50 first minute, plus $.50/minute thereafter

9+1+area code+number

Long Distance (Continental U.S.) International (including Alaska & Hawaii)

$4 access charge AT&T operator rates

9+1+area code+number

$6 access charge AT&T operator rates

9+011+country code+city code

Toll-Free

Complimentary

9+1+area code+number

Room to Room

Complimentary

8+room number

Voicemail

Complimentary

Press “messages”

TDD Phone

Complimentary

Press “0”

instructions are on the desk. Complimentary wireless access is available in the lobby and Base Bar on the first floor.

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS AND TELEPHONE CHARGES

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GN T D SCO ESI OU IGN T D SC ES OU IGN T D SC DES OU IGNUT NSC DES CO SIG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS DE CO SIG U N D C ESI U N D SC ES U GN T SC ES OU IGN T SC ES O IG T S DE O IG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS D CO SIG UT UT N T D SCO ESI OU GN T D SC ESI OU IGN T D SC DES OU IGN T SC DES OU IG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS DE CO ESIG UT N N D SCO ESIG U GN T D SC ESI OU GN T D SC ES OU IGN T SC DES OU IGN T NSC DES CO SIG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS D SCO T S E O G T S E O IG T S DE O IG T SC ES U D O IG U N D C SI U N D C S U N C ES U ES OU IGN T NSC DES CO SIG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS DE CO SIG UT NS DE SCO ESIG UT N T D SCO ESIGOU GN T D SC ESI OU IGN T D SC DES OU IGN T IG T S DE O IG UT NS DE CO SIG UT N D CO SIG U N D C SI U N D SC ES U N T SC ES OU G T S E O IG T S N D C SI U N D C S E T S E O G T S E O IG T D O IG N D C S U N C S U

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Eats and Drinks

ICE MACHINES

IN-ROOM DINING – EXT. 59

foyer on all floors except the 3rd, 4th and 23rd. For guests

If you are hungry, but don’t want to leave the comfort of your room, simply press a button and we will rush any of our culinary treats to satisfy your cravings at any time of the day. The menu is located on the desk and all the China Grill fare is also available. REFRESHMENT CENTER

Satisfy your thirst with the in-room refreshment center located below the television. There is a fully stocked mini-bar and munchies in the top drawer for your enjoyment 24 hours a day. Prices are on the front door of the mini-bar. When you lift a product, it will automatically be billed to your guest room.

Since we have never heard of “vodka on the nothing,” all the “rocks” you need are conveniently located near the elevator staying in the tower, the nearest ice machine is located on the 22nd floor.

Media and Music If you cannot leave the comfort of your home without your music, we know how you feel. We have two options in your room for you to enjoy your favorite band: • iHome digital alarm clock with universal iPod docking station and a 3.5-mm jack for any other MP3 player • The ZVOX surround sound bar, located underneath the TV,

BASE BAR – EXT. 6528

provides room-filling sound. A 3.5-mm jack input is located

Relax. Let loose. Unwind. Base Bar in the hotel lobby is the

in front of the unit and connecting cables are available upon

perfect setting for a drink, a meal or a little of both. Balancing the sophistication of a classic martini with the comfort of a living room, Base Bar has redefined the rock and roll scene. It features hand-crafted specialty cocktails, organic/sustain-

request. If you brought your DVDs with you, a DVD player is available by dialing “0.” If you did not bring your music, don’t worry – we are the Hard Rock. We have you covered with the list of music

able wines and beers and simple bites like flatbread pizzas and

channels on the following page.

artisan cheeses. Chicago area DJs are often scheduled on Friday

CHECK IN, ROCK OUT WITH GIBSON GUITARS

and Saturday nights and holidays as well as for special events.

Forget in-room movies and make your own music. The Hard

Please call ext. 6528 or visit our web site for the DJ

Rock Hotel Chicago and Gibson Guitars introduce “Check In,

performance schedule.

Rock Out,” a new guest program where both professionals and

Bar hours: Mon-Thu from 3 pm, Fri from 1:30 pm, Sat

amateurs can jam in the privacy of their own room without

from 11 am and Sun from 12 pm

disturbing those around them. Only you will hear what you play.

CHINA GRILL/GLOBE BAR – EXT. 6713

You can choose from a wide variety of electric and acoustic

China Grill provides a globe-spanning culinary adventure in a

guitars such as the Les Paul Custom, the classic Hummingbird

spectacular setting. While Asian flavors and techniques are an

or the SG Carved Top. Line 6 Pocket PODs® and headphones

influence, the menu is labeled “world cuisine” with virtually

contain the sound and provide a rich, musical experience.

every dish prepared on either a grill or wok using ingredients from around the globe. Portions are generous, dramatically presented and meant to be shared. A spectacular interior design includes an exhibition kitchen, “walls” of beads and multicolored lighting in the adjacent Globe Bar as a place to see and be seen. China Grill is known as much for the company it keeps

As there is no charge or time limit to this program, you are encouraged to sample the guitars and keep them for as long as you stay at the hotel. Gibson guitars, Line 6 Pocket PODs® and headphones can be checked out at our front desk. A major credit card is required.

as it is for its bold culinary inventions; the restaurant brims with

Need a tutor? Hard Rock Hotel Chicago has part-

an eclectic group of celebrities, families, business leaders and both

nered with Guitar Chicago to provide private

elegant and casual diners.

and/or group lessons. Your level of experi-

Breakfast: Mon-Fri 6:30-11 am, Sat-Sun 6:30 am-12 pm

ence is all they need to know in order to

Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30 am-5 pm

create a personalized lesson. Give

Dinner: Mon-Thu 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 5-9 pm

them a call at 312.863.8588 or book an appointment

through our web site.

CHINA GRILL RECEIVE

20% OFF

Exclusively for our hotel guests when you present your key card.

LUCKY 7’s

Enjoy $7 drink specials all day everyday plus complimentary hors d’oeuvres from 5:30–7:30pm daily.

TASTING MENUS

A chance for you to experience our legendary classics.

located on lobby level near elevator for reservations, direct dial 6713 or 6415 also see China Grill’s in-room menu *Not valid on beverage purchases. Cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.

SOPHISTICATED AT OUR BASE. AUTHENTIC TO OUR CORE. Relax. Let Loose. Unwind. Base Bar in the Hard Rock Hotel Lobby is the perfect setting for a drink, a meal, or a little of both. We believe that drinking responsibly has many meanings.

Located in the west end of the Hard Rock Hotel lobby

www.chinagrillmgt.com

MUSIC CHANNELS Channel

Description

45 Sirius XM Deep Track Deeper cuts from classic rock legends

Channel Description 1

LodgeNet promo channel

CBS HD

NBC HD

FOX HD

ABC HD

PBS HD

ESPN HD

ESPN2 HD

Comcast Sportsnet HD

The Golf Channel HD

FOX News HD

CNBC HD

CNN HD

Weather Channel HD

Discovery HD

A&E HD

Syfy HD

All three playlists will be renewed every six months, allowing

TLC HD

returning guests to download new music, great classics and

USA Network HD

current hits again and again, compliments of Hard Rock

TNT HD

International. So check in, check out the music and

TBS HD

enjoy “The Sound of Your Stay.”

46 Sirius XM BPM

Today’s biggest dance hits and remixes

47 Sirius XM Lithium

Grunge rock and 90s alternative

48 Sirius XM Boneyard Hard & heavy classic rock 49 Sirius XM The Heat

Today’s hottest R&B hits

THE SOUND OF YOUR STAY

In 2009, Hard Rock International introduced “The Sound of Your Stay,” a complimentary music program at Hard Rock properties worldwide. At check-in, you will be given a code redeemable at music.hardrockhotels.com to download one of three distinct, 10-song iTunes playlists — City, Sun or Players — chosen by Hard Rock’s music and culture team. Each list represents a different side to the Hard Rock Hotel personality: classic tracks from iconic artists, poolside pop or the latest blasts from the global underground.

The History Channel HD

Palladia HD

SAMPLE CITY PLAYLIST: • Empire of the Sun “Walking on a Dream” • Cut Copy “So Haunted” • Black Gold “Breakdown” • Blue Foundation “Enemy” • The Duke Spirit “The Step and the Walk”

MTV HD

VH1 HD

HBO HD

ABC Family

ESPN Classic

ESPN News

MSNBC

CNN Headline News

Univision

WGN

Lifetime

Disney Channel

Travel Channel

Food Network

MTV2

RT Moscow

Hotel information channel

AUX

Auxiliary channel for DVDs and a game console – connect through RCA jacks on the side of the TV

SAMPLE SUN PLAYLIST: • Theresa Andersson “Birds Fly Away” • Plain White T’s “Sunlight” • Phoenix “Lisztomania” • Bell X1 “The Great Defector” SAMPLE PLAYERS PLAYLIST: • James Brown “Gut Bucket” • Billy Ray Cyrus “Thrillbilly” • George Thorogood & the Destroyers “Bad to the Bone” • Jackson Browne “Off of Wonderland” • Tori Amos “Maybe California”

TV Channels

• The Faint “The Geeks Were Right” • Fischerspooner “Money Can’t Dance” • The Juan Maclean “One Day” • The Prodigy “Omen”

• Secondhand Serenade “Maybe” • Matt Nathanson “Falling Apart” • Meiko “Boys With Girlfriends” • Aimee Allen “On Vacation” • Drive A “Are You Blind?”

• Better Than Ezra “Absolutely Still” • James Morrison “You Make it Real” • Deep Purple “Rapture of the Deep” • Josh Kelley “To Remember”

Personal Services CONCIERGE – EXT. 52

From 7 am to 11:30 pm, we make it happen. Call us … we’re connected. FITNESS CENTER

Feeling guilty about over indulging? The fitness center, located on the lower level (LL2), offers treadmills and elliptical runners with individual flat screen TVs, bikes, resistance machines and free weights. It is open 24/7 and accessed with your room key card so you have no excuses. If you prefer an outdoor jog, running maps with mileage are available at the concierge desk. LAUNDRY – EXT. 53

We know, you forgot something, just take off what you’re wearing and we’ll get it done. Dry cleaning, laundry and press only services are available. Please drop off clothing at the front desk or dial 0 for pick up. Regular service: in by 9 am, done by 6 pm Express service: in by 1 pm, done within 5 hours Overnight: in by midnight, done by 8 am LOST AND FOUND – EXT. 53

Those diamond earrings are much easier to find when you know where to look. Let us help … LUGGAGE ASSISTANCE – EXT. 58

Your bags look much lighter when we’re carrying them for you. PET CARE

You don’t have to leave home without your pet. The Hard Rock Hotel Chicago welcomes your furry friend for a small nightly “guest” fee. Simply sign a pet waiver at check-in. In addition, we offer the following two packages for an additional fee for Fifi or Fido. Party Like a Rottweiler: • Hard Rock Hotel logoed collapsible pet bow • Hard Bark guitar chew toy • Clean-up bags with dispenser • Companion™ natural freeze-dried treats • Use of placemat • Use of pet-cam (based upon availability) What’s New Pussycat: • Hard Rock Hotel logoed collapsible pet bow

ROCK SHOP

Interested in adding to your rock star closet? Pay a visit to the Rock Shop in the hotel lobby. In addition to the classic, worldrecognized logo apparel, you will find exclusive collections from designer brands including Harajuku Lovers, English Laundry, Edun and Trunk LTD. The Hard Rock brand’s Signature Series T-shirts feature the work of noted artists and performers, while contributing to global and humanitarian causes. Each artist designates a charity of choice and a portion of the T-shirt sales goes directly to that charity. Want to take a little Hard Rock home with you? Our Sleep Like a Rock® bedding set takes upscale hotel elegance and blends it with Hard Rock attitude. Our crisp, white, 100 percent Egyptian cotton sateen sheets are embroidered with charcoal-colored guitars in the corner. SHOE SHINE – EXT. 58

Available 24/7 to help keep your image polished. SPA SERVICES – EXT. 52

Want to de-stress after a rockin’ day? The Hard Rock Hotel Chicago and Windy City Massage offer two private massage treatment rooms for your relaxation and rejuvenation. Facials, manicures and pedicures are also available to keep you looking like a star. In-room treatment may be arranged for an additional charge. Simply call the front desk to schedule an appointment. SWIMMING POOL

Stay in rock star shape by swimming at the nearby Lakeshore Athletic Club (211 N. Stetson St., 312-616-9000) in its 23-yard pool. Adults can use the whole facility for $25/day. Children under 18 can use the pool, basketball court and climbing wall on Saturdays and Sundays only. TURNDOWN SERVICE – EXT. 53

For sweet dreams, turndown service is provided upon request between 5 and 9:30 pm every day. VALET – EXT. 54

Your ride is just a phone call away. Our in and out privileges offer true rock star treatment. WAKE-UP CALL – EXT. 0

Chicago nights can be wild! If you stayed out too late, we are here to make sure you’re awake for that 8 am presentation or early bird flight … just don’t blame us for the headache.

• Companion™ natural freeze-dried treats • Biodegradable, disposable litter box • Cat toy • Pawbreakers! catnip • Use of pet-cam (based upon availability)

Save Yourself or the Planet LOSS PREVENTION AND EVACUATION PLAN

Room-specific emergency evacuation plans are on the back of your guest room door. In case of an alarm, please note evacuation routes and instructions. We have loss prevention officers on duty 24/7 and the public areas are monitored through closed circuit televisions. For specific questions, please call the manager on duty at ext. “0”. GREEN INITIATIVES

The Hard Rock Hotel prioritizes environmental sustainability. To this end, we have implemented the following “Save the Planet” initiatives: • “Save the Planet” committee in place led by the director of operations that represents all divisions in the hotel • Paperless check-in at the front desk • Use of Green Earth bioPVC® key cards, which are biodegradable • Linen and terry cloth re-use program. Guests have the opportunity to get their bed linens changed every three days or upon request. Towels are replaced only if put on the floor. • Electrolyzer system in the housekeeping department to reduce use of cleaning chemicals by 90 percent in guest rooms and public areas • Copy paper containing no less than 30 percent postconsumer fiber • Internal documents printed double-sided when possible

• Food and beverage napkins made from 100 percent recycled paper • Wines that are organic, biodynamic or sustainable as well as organic vodka, Scotch, gin, rum and tequila in Base Bar • Organic packages on the banquet beverage menu • Energy-saving frequency drives for all major heating, ventilating and air conditioning equipment • Plumbing fixtures that are Green Seal-certified for gallons per minute • Building automation system to optimize the use of utilities • 90 percent fluorescent lighting and the remainder lowvoltage halogen, except for the historic areas • Latex-based paint with low volatile organic compound content • Green Seal-approved chillers for energy efficiency • Preventative maintenance program to ensure all building equipment operates at designed efficiency • Use of a Bulb Eater® to recycle all light bulbs in-house • Recycling program for cardboard, batteries and fluorescent tubes • Partnership with Clean the World™ foundation to recycle all opened shampoo, body wash and soap amenities IN THE WORKS:

• Producing our own bottled water (sparkling and still) with Natura® Water to use in food and beverage outlets, including meeting rooms and mini-bars. The goal is to eliminate plastic water bottles in the hotel. • Developing an extended recycling program to include all containers (paper, plastic and aluminum) and implement in-room recycling program • Working towards achieving Green Seal silver certification

Thank you for checking into a

hotel partner location. Remember to use your hotel key card for special pricing with our participating advertisers. 26

by 2011

127

129 38

75 24 55

136

105

102 34

21 89

71 115 10

92 95

149

153 30

104

117 152

2 147146 39 108 64 90 100 18

113

144

63 106148 97 4 9 133 49 145 40 7 1 27 68 66 23 62 111 137 22 67 60 14 19 41 37 36 130 140 143 29 69 141 47 142 50 116 109 112 33 117 72 128 6 46 139 35

151 8 138

11 94 5

26 101

131

118

32 103

150

73 85 86

110 132 107

13 12

HARD ROCK HOTEL

114 121

83 58 16

15 17

74 87

119

123

124

20 80 126 42

25 52

54 51

59 70

120

ART GALLERIES

1 2 3 4 5 6

ArchiTech Colletti Gallery Dubhe Carreño Gallery Josef Glimer Gallery, Ltd. Leslie Hindman Auctioneers The Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair™ 7 Nicole Gallery 8 Russell Bowman Art Advisory 9 Stephen Daiter Gallery/Daiter Contemporary 10 Thomas Masters Gallery

PERFORMING ARTS CENTERS

730 N. Franklin St., Ste. 200 67 E. Oak St. 118 N. Peoria St., 2nd fl. 207 W. Superior St. 1338 W. Lake St. Kinzie St. and N. Wells St.

312.475.1290 312.664.6767 312.666.3150 312.787.4640 312.280.1212 312.527.4141

80 81 82 83 84 85

230 W. Huron St. 311 W. Superior St. 230 W. Superior St., 4th fl. 245 W. North Ave.

312.787.7716 312.751.9500 312.787.3350 312.440.2322

86 87 88 89

415 N. Aberdeen Ave. 465 N. McClurg Ct. 465 N. McClurg Ct. 600 N. Clark St. 77 E. Randolph St. 505 N. Lake Shore Dr. East of Michigan on the south curb of Randolph St. 875 N. Michigan Ave. 600 N. Clark St. 233 S. Wacker Dr.

800.757.6603 312.915.0995 312.527.1977 888.446.7891 312.742.1190 312.890.3701 773.648.5000

Aviation Vacations Bobby’s Bike Hike Chicago Architecture Boat Tour/Boat Charter Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tour Chicago Neighborhood Tour Chicago Segway Tour Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.

18 John Hancock Observatory 19 Untouchable Gangster Tours 20 Willis Tower Skydeck

1723 N. Halsted St. 616 N. Rush St. 217 W. Huron St. 2300 N. Lincoln Park West 638 S. Michigan Ave. 945 W. Fulton Market 620 N. State St. 1800 N. Lincoln Ave. 110 W. Illinois St. 52 W. Elm St.

312.867.0110 312.660.6000 312.624.9975 773.868.0002 312.765.0524 312.491.0058 312.642.8450 312.981.7070 312.644.0500 312.573.4000

888.875.8439 773.881.1195 312.875.9696

DINING: NEWER GREATS

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Alinea David Burke’s Primehouse Graham Elliot L2O Mercat a la Planxa Moto Osteria via Stato Perennial Sunda Table Fifty-Two

DINING: OLD FAVORITES

* 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

Arun’s Blackbird Brasserie Jo Charlie Trotter’s China Grill Frontera Grill/Topolobampo Naha North Pond Spiaggia/Café Spiaggia TRU

4156 N. Kedzie Ave. 619 W. Randolph St. 59 W. Hubbard St. 816 W. Armitage Ave. 230 N. Michigan Ave. 445 N. Clark St. 500 N. Clark St. 2610 N. Cannon Dr. 980 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd fl. 676 N. St. Clair St.

773.539.1909 312.715.0708 312.595.0800 773.248.6228 312.334.6700 312.661.1434 312.321.6242 773.477.5845 312.280.2750 312.202.0001

LIVE MUSIC

41 42 43 44 * 46 47 * 49 50

Blue Chicago Buddy Guy’s Legends The Chicago Theatre Double Door The Green Mill House of Blues LaSalle Power Company Metro The Redhead Piano Bar Rumba

536 N. Clark St. 754 S. Wabash Ave. 175 N. State St. 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave. 4802 N. Broadway St. 329 N. Dearborn St. 500 N. LaSalle Blvd. 3730 N. Clark St. 16 W. Ontario St. 351 W. Hubbard St.

312.661.0100 312.427.1190 312.462.6300 773.489.3160 773.878.5552 312.923.2000 312.661.1122 773.549.0203 312.640.1000 312.222.1226

1300 S. Lake Shore Dr. 111 S. Michigan Ave. 1601 N. Clark St. 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. 2200 N. Cannon Dr. 220 E. Chicago Ave. 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. 600 E. Grand Ave. 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr.

312.922.7827 312.443.3600 312.642.4600 312.922.9410 312.742.2000 312.280.2660 773.684.1414 312.595.7437 312.939.2438

222 W. Ontario St. 1543 N. Kingsbury St. 308 W. Erie St. 220 W. Chicago Ave. 937 Rush St. 839 W. Fulton Market St. 642 N. Clark St. 226 W. Ontario St. 646 W. Franklin St. 56 W. Illinois St.

312.376.3111 312.266.1900 312.202.9221 312.654.0234 312.255.0022 312.733.2222 312.475.1390 312.787.4480 312.337.2191 312.644.7600

425 E. McFetridge Dr. 1750 N. Clark St. 100 E. Wacker Dr. 50 W. Washington St. 337 E. Randolph St. 2391 N. Stockton Dr. Columbus Dr. & Monroe St. 201 E. Randolph Street 1603 N. Lake Shore Dr. 3600 N. Recreation Dr.

773.256.0949 773.880.1266 877.244.2246 312.744.3315 312.742.7648 312.742.7736 312.742.1168 312.742.1168 312.742.7529 312.245.0909

MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS

51 52 53 54 55 56 * 58 59

Adler Planetarium The Art Institute of Chicago Chicago History Museum The Field Museum Lincoln Park Zoo Museum of Contemporary Art Museum of Science and Industry Navy Pier Shedd Aquarium

NIGHTCLUBS

60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69

Crescendo Crobar Cuvée Enclave Le Passage Lumen Manor Sound-Bar Spybar The Underground

Burnham Park Chicago Green City Market Chicago Riverwalk Daley Plaza Farmers Market Grant Park Lincoln Park Conservatory Lurie Garden Millennium Park North Avenue Beach Sydney R. Marovitz/Waveland Avenue Golf Course

312.922.2110 312.977.1700 312.977.1700 312.595.5600 312.419.0033 312.977.1700

170 N. Dearborn St. 205 Upper Randolph Dr. 1616 N. Wells St. 1650 N. Halsted St.

312.443.3800 312.334.7777 312.337.3992 312.335.1650

90 91 92 93 94 95 * 97 *

Alternatives Shoes Bonnie & Clyde’s Cityblue Apparel & Denim City Soles/Niche Fix Haberdash M4Men Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Store Universal Gear

900 N. Michigan Ave., 5th fl. 1751 W. Division St. 1444 N. Wells St. 2001 W. North Ave. 1101 W. Fulton Market 1350 N. Wells St. 3525 N. Southport Ave. 717 N. Michigan Ave. 3153 N. Broadway St.

312.266.1545 773.235.2680 312.664.2222 773.489.2001 312.226.4565 312.440.1300 773.698.6407 312.944.6500 773.296.1090

1237 S. Michigan Ave. 873 N. Rush St. 1039 W. Lake St. 824 W. Armitage Ave. 135 N. Jefferson St. 1127 N. State St. 2035 N. Damen Ave. 710 N. Wabash Ave. 1035 W. Madison St. 200 E. Delaware Pl., Lower Level

312.834.0909 312.587.1000 312.738.0155 773.281.5655 312.648.1350 312.932.0077 773.489.1311 312.255.0900 312.492.9373 312.335.1353

431 N. Wells St. 1120 W. Madison 170 W. Ontario St. 444 N. La Salle Blvd. 1100 N. State St. 1113 W. Randolph St. 455 W. North Ave. 25 W. Hubbard St. 9 W. Hubbard St. 1326 W. Madison St.

312.527.5973 312.243.1113 312.337.3477 312.222.6200 312.988.7887 312.929.4787 312.266.2277 312.670.2200 312.644.0004 312.981.7100

WOMEN’S SHOPPING

99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108

House of Sole Ikram Koros Lori’s Shoes Maria Pinto Ps:accessories Roslyn Sarca Tribeca Urban Style Emporium

SPORTS BARS & PUBS

109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118

Bull & Bear The CrossRoads Bar & Grill District Bar English The Hunt Club Market Old Town Social Social Twenty-Five Theory WestEnd

SPORTS ACTIVITIES

119 120 121 * 123 124 * 126

Bank of America Chicago Marathon/Shamrock Shuffle Chicago Bears Chicago Blackhawks/Bulls Chicago Cubs Chicago Mackinac Sailboat Race Chicago Triathlon® Chicago White Sox Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon

WINE & SUDS WINE BARS 127 404 Wine Bar 128 Bin 36 129 D.O.C. Wine Bar 130 Pops for Champagne 131 The Tasting Room

Columbus Dr. and Monroe Dr. (start) 312.904.9800 1410 S. Museum Campus Dr. 1901 W. Madison St. 1060 W. Addison St. 400 E. Monroe St.

847.615.2327 312.455.4650 773.404.2827 312.861.7777

100 N. Harbor Dr. 333 W. 35th St. Columbus Dr. and Congress Pkwy.

773.404.2372 866.769.4263 800.311.1255

2856 N. Southport Ave. 339 N. Dearborn St. 2602 N. Clark St. 601 N. State St. 1415 W. Randolph St.

773.404.8400 312.755.9463 773.883.5101 312.266.7677 312.942.1313

1061 W. Madison St. 742 N. Clark St. 3535 N. Clark St. 5148 N. Clark St. 1949 N. Hoyne Ave.

312.433.0013 312.642.9253 773.832.9040 773.334.9851 773.252.7636

633 N. State St. 416 W. Ontario St. 230 N. Michigan Ave. 500 N. Michigan Ave. 1 W. Grand Ave. 22 W. Hubbard St. 504 N. Wells St.

312.202.1904 312.787.1400 312.334.6700 312.735.6300 312.755.9339 312.645.6000 312.595.2300

600 W. Chicago Ave. 715 N. State St. 41 E. Oak St. 49 E. Oak St. 108 E. Superior St., 20th fl. 1743-45 W. Division St. 161 N. Canal St. 375 W. Erie St. 12 W. Maple St. 1412 W. Division St.

312.755.1313 312.482.9800 312.640.0101 312.587.8727 312.573.6860 773.235.2323 312.466.9585 312.951.8255 312.587.3500 773.904.8282

BEER BARS 132 133 * * 136

Beer Bistro Clark Street Ale House Goose Island Brew Pub The Hopleaf The Map Room

LATE-NIGHT BITES

137 138 139 140 141 142 143

Bijan’s Bistro Blue 13 China Grill The Purple Pig Rock Bottom Brewery Rockit Bar & Grill SUSHISAMBA® Rio

SALONS & SPAS

PARKS & RECREATION

70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 *

50 E. Congress Pkwy. 18 W. Monroe St. 151 W. Randolph St. 800 E. Grand Ave. 20 N. Wacker Dr. 24 W. Randolph St.

MEN’S SHOPPING

WAYS TO SEE CHICAGO

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Auditorium Theatre Bank of America Theater Cadillac Palace Theater Chicago Shakespeare Theater The Civic Opera House Ford Center for the Performing Arts/Oriental Theater Goodman Theatre Harris Theater The Second City Steppenwolf Theater Company

144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153

Allyu Spa Joseph Michael’s Salon & Spa Marianne Strokirk Salon Mireille’s Studio The Peninsula Spa by ESPA Ruby Room® Spa Space Tirra Salon & Spa Urban Oasis Verto Salon

*Location is listed in the magazine but does not appear on the map.

THE DOUBLE DOOR

Photo by Steve Lucero

comedic productions, accommodating more

linked—from the city’s roots as a

than 3,000 people.

blues, jazz and gospel hub to its

THE GREEN MILL, a Prohibition-era spot

world-renowned orchestral scene. House

where gangsters once hung out, remains

music arguably got its start in the city, too; its

a top destination for live jazz artists, late-

very name is often credited to now-defunct

night sets and weekend jam sessions. Since

club The Warehouse, where resident DJ

opening its hallowed doors a century ago, this

Frankie Knuckles spun tracks.

former speakeasy has featured the likes of

Von Freeman, Franz Jackson, Kurt Elling, Eric

These days, live acts of all kinds—from

indie rock and alternative bands to major

Alexander and Orbert Davis. Poetry slams take

label rockers—frequent this tune-loving city,

place here on a regular basis, too.

making its nightlife a scene to be seen. Here

are some top spots where you can take it all in.

flock to the mid-sized music venue and bar

DOUBLE DOOR for intimate sets with emerging

An architectural wonder, the Frank

talent. It has also on occasion been the

home to the Grant Park Music Festival, a free

venue of choice for artists like the Smashing

summer choral and orchestral concert series

Pumpkins, Rolling Stones and Bell X1.

held under the acoustically savvy, open-air

Pool tables and pinball downstairs afford a

canopy. On the floor, 4,000 seats offer prime

distraction between sets.

views, while the lawn accommodates 7,000

picnickers. Surrounded by the interactive,

luminaries have graced the stage of METRO,

glass block Crown Fountain, five-acre Lurie

a bi-level venue in a former Swedish

Garden and Cloud Gate sculpture (“The

Community Center that has welcomed

Bean”), the pavilion is a prime perch for

Nirvana and Bob Dylan as well as local acts

passing time.

like Big Black and Naked Raygun over the

Countless alternative and rock music

years. The concert hall is fairly small; its BLUES AND MORE

Photo Credits: Buddy Guy’s Legends by Paul Natkin; Double Door by Steve Lucero; The Green

By Jennifer Olvera

adjunct, subterranean SmartBar is a popular DJ-manned spot to head post-show.

The HOUSE OF BLUES, situated in the

iconic nightclub that’s plastered with decades

Marina City complex along the Chicago River,

of blues memorabilia. Live acts appear nightly,

has hosted artists from Al Green to Pearl Jam

though celebrities such as Kid Rock and Eric

to The Who. Luring multigenerational music

Clapton are more likely to perform on

lovers since opening in 1996, it offers both

weekends.

private boxes and standing room admission;

either way, the sound is killer and the vibe is

floor, rock poster-clad River North

hopping. Not a night owl? Make reservations

behemoth—features DJs and a house band

for the gospel brunch on Sunday between 10

on the lower levels, with local and national

am and12:30 pm.

acts on the top-floor stage. Classic cocktails,

including a mean Tom Collins, ramp up the

Dramatic and luxe with French Baroque

LASALLE POWER COMPANY—a three-

leanings as a downsized Arc de Triomphe

party, but there are big screens for those who

replica, THE CHICAGO THEATRE was the first

want to kick back, too.

large movie palace in America when it opened in 1921. It now hosts musicians from Mariah Carey to Mark Knopfler as well as musical and

The Chicago Theatre 175 N. State St. 312.462.6300 thechicagotheatre.com Box office Mon-Fri 12-6 pm Ticket prices vary 0.2 MILE FROM HOTEL

Double Door 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.489.3160 doubledoor.com Showtimes and ticket prices vary 3.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway St. 773.878.5552 greenmilljazz.com Daily 12 pm-4 am $6-$12 cover 6.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn St. 312.923.2000 houseofblues.com Music at 10 pm daily Ticket prices vary 0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL

Located in the South Loop

neighborhood, BUDDY GUY’S LEGENDS is an

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Cool co-eds—and in-the-know elders—

Gehry-designed JAY PRITZKER PAVILION is

WHERE TO CATCH ROCK, JAZZ,

Buddy Guy’s Legends 754 S. Wabash Ave. 312.427.1190 buddyguys.com Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 5 pm-3 am, Sun 6 pm-2 am $10-$15 cover

NIGHTLIFE

Mill by Dave Jemilo; House of Blues © HOB Entertaiment Inc., 2009; Jay Pritzker Pavilion by Howard Ash; Metro from Metro.

hicago and music have always been

Jay Pritzker Pavilion Millennium Park 201 E. Randolph St. 312.742.1168 millenniumpark.org Free 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

LaSalle Power Company 500 N. LaSalle Blvd. 312.661.1122 lasallepowerco.com Wed-Fri 4 pm-2 am, Sat 10:30 am-3 pm, Sun 10:30 am-2 am Free 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Metro 3730 N. Clark St. 773.549.0203 metrochicago.com Box office Tue-Sat 12-8 pm Ticket prices vary 5 MILES FROM HOTEL

LUMEN

denizens. Spinning house and hip-hop most

Cocktails, while fairly straightforward, have

snoozes, another hits late-night

nights, the nightclub’s balconies afford great

rich-sounding names, such as the Bolton with

lounges in search of fun, proving

views of the dance floor below. Not surprisingly,

Patrón XO Café.

the real action starts once the lights go down

people-watching is a pastime here.

and lasts until the sun comes up.

lead to surprises. The River North ultra-lounge,

CRESCENDO—which comes courtesy of the

from the owners of Enclave, pours bubbly-

North proud, filling to capacity most nights its

owners of nearby Sound-Bar and Y—pulls

based cocktails to a manicured, label-conscious

long wooden bar, curvaceous banquettes and

out all the stops, regularly luring models and

crowd. For guaranteed entrance, invites or table

blocky, low-slung seating. The scene-seeking

athletes to its late-night lair. Moroccan-inspired

reservations are key.

crowd dances the night away, springing for

lanterns lend a romantic, faraway feel, but the

bottles of Veuve Clicquot or gabbing over flirty,

menu—basic bottle service, martinis and eats

in the city’s Warehouse District, LUMEN is a

fruity cocktails.

like popcorn shrimp—feels familiar.

chill space adorned with groupings of plush,

modular furniture. Serving fruity cocktails and

newly-renovated, more than 4,000 square-foot

champagne, it books local and visiting DJs.

SPYBAR offers tons of dance floor space as well

Accordingly, booty-shaking begins when hip

as VIP alcoves for a quieter setting (as quiet as

hop and acid jazz kick in.

THE UNDERGROUND, a subterranean,

it gets with well-known local and national DJs

military bunker-inspired lounge from Rockit

spinning house and hip hop music, that is). For

forever-discotheque with a velvet rope vibe. Now

Ranch Productions, gets face-time with local

a new spin on bottle service, cocktails are paired

that it belongs to Three Headed Productions

and visiting glitterati, who sip cocktails like

with decadent truffles from Chicago-based

(owners of Salud Tequila Lounge, Junior’s

The Italian Job. Meanwhile, internationally

Vosges Haut-Chocolat.

Sports Lounge and others), the alley entrance

recognized DJs hit the decks. Rations range

gives way to a moody, packed club with a small

from Kobe sliders to dill havarti grilled cheese,

red tones with turn-of-last-century appeal,

dance floor. Adjacent is a culinary cocktail bar

ensuring no one’s left wanting for anything.

MANOR—a sibling to RiNo—is VIP-ready. Nooks

called The Drawing Room that serves innovative

give the place an intimate feel, while nationally

small plates.

Spacious and showy, ENCLAVE does River

LATE-NIGHT DANCING AND MIXOLOGY

By Jennifer Olvera

When Chicagoans want to dance, they go to

Photo Credit: Manor by Darkroom Demons.

CROBAR, a soaring standby that draws diverse

Red-hued River North ultra-lounge

Drenched in purplish-blue light, the

Swathed in dark wood, flagstone and rich

The name of back-alley spot CUVÉE won’t

NIGHTLIFE

hile part of the population

Located in a former meatpacking building

New life was breathed into LE PASSAGE, a

known DJs bring A-listers to the dance floor.

Crescendo 222 W. Ontario St. 312.376.3111 clubcrescendo.com Wed-Thu 11 pm-4 am, Fri 10 pm-4 am, Sat 10 pm-5 am

Crobar 1543 N. Kingsbury St. 312.266.1900 crobar.com Wed and Fri 10 pm-4 am, Sat 10 pm-5 am

Cuvée 308 W. Erie St. 312.202.9221 cuveechicago.com Wed 10 pm-2 am, Fri 11 pm-4 am, Sat 11 pm-5 am

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

2.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Enclave 220 W. Chicago Ave. 312.654.0234 enclavechicago.com Thu 10 pm-2 am, Fri 9 pm-2 am, Sat 9 pm-3 am

Le Passage 937 Rush St. 312.255.0022 lepassage.com Thu-Fri 10 pm-4 am, Sat 10 pm-5 am

Lumen 839 W. Fulton Market St. 312.733.2222 lumen-chicago.com Tue 10 pm-2 am, Fri 9 pm-2 am, Sat 9 pm-3 am

1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

1.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Manor 642 N. Clark St. 312.475.1390 manorchicago.com Tue, Thu and Fri 10 pm-2 am, Sat 10 pm-3 am

Spybar 646 W. Franklin St. 312.337.2191 spybarchicago.com Sun-Mon, Wed-Thu 10 pm-5 am; Fri-Sat 10 pm-5 am

The Underground 56 W. Illinois St. 312.644.7600 theundergroundchicago.com Thu-Fri 9 pm-4 am, Sat 9 pm-5 am, Sun 10 pm-4 am

0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

ENJOY THEM IN SEXY LOUNGES OR VENUES WITH A VIEW

By Jennifer Olvera Y BAR

on your best garb: Chicago’s

legendary lounges—many of which

Marquee, MARTINI PARK—a cougar-populated

also accessible to well-heeled regulars since bottle

you’ll write home about—ooze

cocktail lounge—has three bars, including one with

service isn’t required in order to secure a seat.

glamour, offering wee-hours entertainment amid

a stage for live acts. Guests can order small plates

comfortably elegant surroundings. Whether you

from the kitchen or just soak up its namesake

Waste Land,” THE VIOLET HOUR is of another place

splurge on bottle service or slurp cocktails at

libation, which gets ordered round after round

(somewhere genteel) and time (pre-Prohibition).

the bar, chilling out at these luxurious haunts is

from a lengthy list.

Dramatic yet understated, the seated lounge serves

assuredly a stylish affair.

craft cocktails—many with homemade bitters—and

intimate than its sib, Sound-Bar. However, its

chef-driven small plates to a hipster crowd.

BASE BAR combines the look of an impossibly hip,

clientele is just as scantily clad. Expect to pony up

minimalist furniture-adorned living room with

for those bottles of bubbly, and know you won’t be

which has an eighth-floor terrace overlooking

that of a swank martini bar. Adding to the appeal,

allowed in without proper attire.

the skyline, not to mention a private champagne

its handcrafted cocktails incorporate sustainable

room—lives up to the hype. Serious scenesters

ingredients, while its beer and wine lists emphasize

late-night STAY lounge—where infused cocktails

know to call ahead for bottle service and to

organic options.

generate buzz—is a follow-up from the Manor

reserve one of three VIP areas.

Located in the lobby of the Hard Rock Hotel,

Base Bar Hard Rock Hotel Chicago 230 N. Michigan Ave. 312.345.1000 hardrockhotelchicago.com Mon-Thu from 3 pm, Fri from 1:30 pm, Sat from 11 am, Sun from 12 pm IN HOTEL

NV Penthouse Lounge 116 W. Hubbard St. 312.329.9960 nvpenthouselounge.com Wed-Thu 9 pm-2 am, Fri 5 pm-3 am, Sat 9 pm-3 am 0.6 MILE FROM THE HOTEL

From the owners of New York’s Light and

Sexy with a luminous glow, Y feels more

Trimmed with warm wood and hidden,

JBar The James Hotel 610 N. Rush St. 312.660.7200 jameshotels.com Wed-Fri 6 pm-2 am, Sat 8 pm-3 am 0.5 MILE FROM THE HOTEL

ROOF theWit 201 N. State St., 27th fl. 312.239.9501 thewithotel.com Mon-Fri 4 pm-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am, Sun 11 am-2 am 0.2 MILE FROM THE HOTEL

and RiNo crew. A popular pit stop for celebs, it’s

With a name that nods to T.S. Eliot’s “The

Exclusive-feeling NV PENTHOUSE LOUNGE—

Martini Park 151 W. Erie St. 312.640.0577 martinipark.com/Chicago Mon-Fri 5 pm-2 am, Sat 5 pm-3 am 1 MILE FROM THE HOTEL

Stay 111 W. Erie St. 312.475.0816 staylounge.com Mon-Fri 12:30 pm-4 am, Sat 12:30 pm-5 am 0.9 MILE FROM THE HOTEL

BASE BAR

Photo Credit: ROOF by Steven Johnson.

THE SIGNATURE LOUNGE AT THE 96TH® is

STAY

Beauties populate ROOF, an inside-outside

and Chicago River while offering fabulous views

known for its panoramic, twinkling city views. But

rooftop lounge atop über-cool theWit hotel. Not

of fireworks at Navy Pier. The cocktails, which are

it’s not all about toasting over peach cosmos and

just beloved for its 27th-floor views, this spot has

appropriately posh, are nautically themed and

Courvoisier®; a menu of bar snacks and sweets,

an Italian small-plates menu courtesy of Todd

modern American munchies are hard to resist.

from surf and turf skewers to baked brie with

Stein, not to mention cocktails that are gussied up

When it’s cold, mezzanine-level Rebar offers a

cranberry chutney or chocolate mousse cake, gives

with nectars, fruits and herbs. Hit the Hangover,

solid alternative.

another reason to linger.

an outdoor ledge that lets you sip cocktails among

Chicago’s skyscrapers, in the summer or have

estate for a tête-à-têtes, thanks to its private,

Hotel Hotspots

brunch with a view from 11 am-2 pm on Saturdays

candlelit nooks, which are further illuminated by

and Sundays.

video-art installations. Specialty cocktails

up business travelers. Now, however, they’re

and upscale noshing—escargot fritters, chorizo

destinations in their own right, like the following

(weather-permitting), al fresco THE TERRACE

and shrimp cakes—lure not just suits but

spots-within-spots where noteworthy tipples and

AT TRUMP—adjacent to Sixteen in the Trump

locals, too.

nibbles can be found.

International Hotel & Tower®—overlooks the lake

At one time, hotel bars existed only to liquor

Offering a sky-high perspective of the city

The Signature Lounge at the 96th® 875 N. Michigan Ave. 312.787.9596 signatureroom.com Sun-Thu 11 am-12:30 am, Fri-Sat 11 am-1:30 am

The Terrace at Trump Trump International Hotel & Tower® 401 N. Wabash Ave., 16th fl. 312.588.8600 trumpchicagohotel.com Mon-Sun 2:30-11 pm

0.9 MILE FROM THE HOTEL

0.3 MILE FROM THE HOTEL

JBAR in clean-lined The James is prime real

The Violet Hour 1520 N. Damen Ave. 773.252.1500 theviolethour.com Sun-Fri 6 pm-2 am, Sat 6 pm-3 am 3.5 MILES FROM THE HOTEL

Y 224 W. Ontario St. 312.274.1880 ychicago.com Wed-Fri 10 pm-2 am, Sat 10 pm-3 am 1 MILE FROM HOTEL

SPIAGGIA

Photo by Jeff Kauck

BEST BITES

eaturing what it calls progressive

space is matched by the sophisticated Italian

Chicago, it’s the first place that comes to mind.

French cuisine, TRU prides itself on

cuisine of award-winning chef Tony Mantuano,

Noguier seamlessly melds seasonal Midwest

its use of luxury ingredients, “bold

who can count the Obamas among his many

ingredients with his classical French training to

creativity” and artistic food styling against

fans. The menu changes seasonally but you can

create food that’s full of wonderful textures and

a backdrop of white draperies, bright blue

always find a selection of house-made pastas and

bold flavors—in a word, delicious. Cases in point:

banquettes and colorful artwork. Guests have the

dishes from a wood-burning oven—think rabbit,

Alaskan halibut with braised artichokes and

option of a three-course prix fixe menu or one of

Mediterranean snapper and lamb. Look for an

oven-dried tomatoes; cauliflower sauce with black

several six- to nine-course “collections.” Imagine

equally creative all-Italian wine list to match the

truffles and a homemade brioche.

seared foie gras with chestnut cream, glazed pear

food. For a more casual experience, neighboring

Chicago is no stranger to great steakhouses,

and crispy bacon or veal cheek and sweetbread served with a cipollini onion tart, figs, raisins and

THE HISTORIC GOLD COAST IS HOME TO MANY OF CHICAGO’S ELITE, WHO LIVE IN MANSIONS,

pine nuts. Renowned chef/partner Rick Tramonto

LUXURY ROW HOUSES AND HIGH-RISES FROM NORTH AVE. SOUTH TO OAK ST. AND FROM CLARK

directs such exquisite savory items and pastry

ST. EAST TO LAKE SHORE DR. THE MAGNIFICENT MILE ON NORTH MICHIGAN AVE., RUNNING FROM

chef/partner Gale Gand of Food Network fame

OAK ST. TO THE CHICAGO RIVER, IS CALLED AS SUCH DUE TO ITS CONTINUOUS STRIP OF DESIGNER

serves up “sweet dreams” at the end, either a

SHOPS. STREETERVILLE, EAST OF THE MAG MILE, IS LIKE A NORTHERN EXTENSION OF THE GOLD

la carte or via a three-course tasting. Can’t get

COAST WITH ITS WELL-HEELED RESIDENTS AND SKYSCRAPERS.

enough? Purchase TRU chocolate truffles to go.

By Nicole Sullivan

Jackets and advance reservations required. Café Spiaggia offers perfectly crisp pizzas for

but DAVID BURKE’S PRIMEHOUSE, owned by New

which is no surprise looking at the beautiful

lunch in addition to pastas.

Yorker Burke, manages to hold its own and then

space with its warm woods, modern glass

some. The classic genre gets reinvented here,

chandelier and stunning views of Lake Michigan

but somehow we can’t remember anything about

creating a restaurant that is hip and traditional

from the floor-to-ceiling windows (“spiaggia”

it before chef Martial Noguier came on board

at the same time. There are plenty of signature

does mean beach in Italian, after all). The elegant

in 2008. Now, when it comes to French food in

appetizers, including surf and turf dumplings

SPIAGGIA has been going strong for 25 years,

The Sofitel’s CAFÉ DES ARCHITECTES isn’t new,

BEST BITES

filled with barbecue short ribs and lobster mousse

between well-known Chicago chefs Jimmy

wood bar and eel skin stools, is an elegant spot to

and pretzel-crusted crab cake. But save room for

Bannos of Heaven on Seven and Scott Harris

enjoy a glass of wine or light snack.

the meat, which is dry-aged in Primehouse’s own

of the Mia Francesca empire, this newer wine

Himalayan salt-tiled room. Tip: If the 40-day aged

bar focuses on rustic Mediterranean food that’s

STEAKHOUSE—from the huge martinis to football-

ribeye is available, get it.

meant to be shared, such as roasted meats served

sized baked potatoes and Flintstone-esque steaks.

family-style with house-made pita, grilled seafood

The regulars that have been flocking here for 20

Mississippi, the Carolinas and Georgia, but that

and panini with handcrafted spreads. Look for

years, including plenty of celebs and sports stars,

doesn’t stop chef Art Smith from dishing out

extensive wines by the glass to complement the

wouldn’t have it any other way. This is old school

tasty Southern-inspired food at TABLE FIFTY-TWO.

food.

Chicago at its best, with its wood-paneled walls,

Well-known for being the personal chef to Oprah

white-jacketed waiters and cushy, red leather

Winfrey and for three cookbooks, Smith keeps it

with stunning views of Michigan Ave. and Lake

booths. With 14 prime-rated steaks and chops to

low-key and cozy at this small coach house-gone-

Michigan, it’s hard to beat NOMI. Between its

choose from—we’re partial to the porterhouse—

The Windy City is a long ways away from

When it comes to elegant French dining

Everything is big at GIBSONS BAR &

meat reigns supreme at this Gold Coast legend. IN ADDITION TO SHOPPING FOR NAMES LIKE CHANEL, YVES SAINT LAURENT, ROLEX OR EVEN

LAMBORGHINI, TAKE IN SOME CHICAGO HISTORY ON MICHIGAN AVE. BY WALKING PAST THE

played it safe. First with Graham Elliot Bowles

ORIGINAL WATER TOWER, THE ONLY BUILDING SPARED IN THE GREAT CHICAGO FIRE OF 1871, OR

and now with chef Curtis Duffy, the flagship

SEEING HISTORIC STONES FROM AROUND THE WORLD ON THE SIDES OF THE TRIBUNE TOWER.

dining room of the Peninsula Hotel constantly

Fine dining restaurant AVENUES has never

pushes the envelope. Combining contemporary restaurant with its glowing tin ceiling and creamy

distinguished art collection—including dramatic

cuisine with the best seasonal ingredients as

yellow walls. Pre-meal buttermilk-goat cheese

sculptured glass from Dale Chihuly—crystal-

well as touches of molecular gastronomy, Duffy

biscuits and deviled eggs start things off on the

beaded chandeliers and leather-wrapped beams,

has created a style that is truly his own. Example

right foot. Keep the good feeling going with fried

this seventh floor restaurant takes dining to new

dishes include Alaskan king crab with a citrus

green tomato napoleon, cornmeal-crusted catfish,

heights. Then there’s the sophisticated food from

purée and tangerine lace as well as Wagyu

cornbread pudding and pecan pie.

chef Christophe David that pairs contemporary

beef ribeye with Sicilian pistachios. Expect the

French cuisine with global touches and

unexpected here, with a menu that constantly

ingredients. The adjoining lounge, with its Wenge

changes and a chef that values all the senses.

THE PURPLE PIG takes its name seriously with

a menu full of porcine treats along with artisan cheeses and house-cured meats. A joint project

Café des Architectes Sofitel Chicago Water Tower 20 E. Chestnut St. 312.324.4000 cafedesarchitectes.com Mon-Fri 6 am-11 pm, Sat-Sun 11:30 am-11 pm 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

David Burke’s Primehouse The James Hotel 616 N. Rush St., 312.660.6000 davidburkesprimehouse.com Mon-Sat 7 am-3 pm, Sun 7 am-2 pm; Mon-Thu 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 pm, Sun 5:30-10 pm 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$$

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse 1028 N. Rush St. 312.266.8999 gibsonssteakhouse.com Daily 11 am-12 am 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$

NoMI Park Hyatt Hotel, 7th fl. 800 N. Michigan Ave. 312.239.4030 nomirestaurant.com Sun-Wed 6-9 pm, Thu-Sat 6-10 pm. Call for breakfast/ lunch hours. 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

The Purple Pig 500 N. Michigan Ave. 312.735.6300 thepurplepigchicago.com Sun-Thu 11:30 am-12 am, Fri-Sat 11:30 am-2 am 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL $

Spiaggia/Café Spiaggia 980 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd fl. 312.280.2750 spiaggiarestaurant.com Sun-Thu 6-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:3010 pm. Call for Café hours. 1 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$

$ meals $20 and under, $$ meals $21-$35, $$$ meals $35-$50, $$$$ meals $50 and up.

Table Fifty-Two 52 W. Elm St. 312.573.4000 tablefifty-two.com Mon-Sat 5-10 pm, Sun 4-9 pm 1.3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

TRU 676 N. St. Clair St. 312.202.0001 trurestaurant.com Mon-Thu 6-10 pm, Fri 5:3011 pm, Sat 5-11 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$$

Photo Credits: Spiaggia by Jeff Kauck; Table Fifty-Two by Kipling Swehla Photography.

Avenues The Peninsula Chicago 108 E. Superior St. 312.573.6754 peninsula.com Tue-Thu 5:30-10 pm, Fri 5:3010:30 pm, Sat 5-10:30 pm 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$

SUNDA

LEMONGRASS BEEF LOLLIPOPS

BEST BITES

or authentic Mexican food, the chef

GRAHAM ELLIOT is contemporary American food

copper-topped bar. The menu changes seasonally,

most talked about is Rick Bayless,

that’s big on breaking rules and huge on flavor.

but you won’t go wrong with anything that comes

who’s devoted his life to studying

Sample dishes are his signature Caesar salad with

out of the wood-burning oven, including the

the traditional ingredients and recipes and

stuffed brioche rectangles and a cheddar-bacon

whole sea bass.

then has brought them back to his restaurants

risotto studded with Cheez-It® crackers. Look for

TOPOLOBAMPO, FRONTERA GRILL and XOCO, the

an equally creative and delicious handcrafted

Italian gems, featuring seasonal dishes with

newest to the bunch, all conveniently located—for

cocktail list.

local ingredients and wine pairings. It features

his many fans and the hard-working Bayless—next

handmade pastas and Tuscan-style fish, chicken

door to each other. For elegant Mexican cuisine,

became known as the place for authentic Tuscan

Since it opened in 1992, COCO PAZZO quickly

OSTERIA VIA STATO is another one of Chicago’s

and meat entrées. For just $38.95/person, sample

Topolobampo is the place to go, while for a more casual meal, Frontera Grill with its tacos al carbon, crispy taquitos and flavorful salsas can’t be beat. For an even more casual experience, stop at quickservice XOCO, featuring tortas, caldos and churros (sandwiches, soups and fried pastries). But no

RIVER NORTH BOASTS THE LARGEST NUMBER OF ART GALLERIES IN THE U.S. OUTSIDE OF MANHATTAN, WHICH ARGUABLY INCLUDE SOME OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD’S RESTAURANTS SERVING UP EDIBLE ART. THE EPICENTER RUNS FROM THE MERCHANDISE MART NORTH TO CHICAGO AVE. AND FROM ORLEANS ST. EAST TO LASALLE ST.

By Nicole Sullivan

matter where you go, expect to find large crowds.

Graham Elliot Bowles is no stranger to having

cuisine in Chicago. With a menu that features both

a range of dishes via “The Famous Italian Dinner

fun with food. At his eponymous restaurant, the

traditional and contemporary ingredients and

Party.” All dinners can be complemented by the

award-winning chef has created a restaurant that

plenty of made-in-house items, including pastas

“just bring me wine” program, offering three wine-

is, in his words, “fine dining, redefined.” That

and breads, this beloved restaurant maintains

tasting levels.

means a lack of dress codes, white tablecloths

a loyal following. The loft-like space is both

and elaborate floral displays. What you will find at

sophisticated and cozy, with its colorful murals and

Nahabedian cousins—Executive Chef Carrie and

It’s a family affair at NAHA, where the

BEST BITES

Head of Operations Michael—have combined

example, foie gras with poached apples and

like onion soup, steamed mussels, salade niçoise,

their numerous talents to create this award-

roasted guinea hen with parsnip purée—that will

coq au vin and steak frites in a lively atmosphere.

winning restaurant. Combining her Armenian

surprise and delight.

The long, attractive bar offers craft brews and

roots with cooking experience at Four Seasons

predominantly French wines. Come summertime,

hotels, Carrie creates food that is both classic

Asian hot spot from the same owners as Rockit

dine like a Parisian al fresco in the Terrace Café.

and contemporary. Her love for local purveyors

Bar & Grill and The Underground nightclub. But

is reflected in dishes such as Great Lakes

in addition to its scenester status and chic décor—

36 could have written the book. Part wine store,

whitefish with butter-poached Maine lobster and

yes, go ahead and wear your trendiest threads—

tavern and restaurant, this next-to-the-river spot

wheatberries. Lunch diners should definitely opt

Sunda’s Executive Chef Rodelio Aglibot serves up

takes the whole grape experience and makes it

for the Angus beef burger, while in the lounge, it’s

some original and tasty dishes. We’re big fans of

fun, with a variety of wine flights, classes and

the glazed chicken wings we can’t resist.

his crispy rice topped with spicy tuna, Kobe beef

events (Wine Director Brian Duncan, a James

Even before you try any of the food at

or shrimp tempura as well as the lemongrass beef

Beard nominee, is known for his wine passion

SIXTEEN, located in the Trump Tower, you know

lollipops. Added bonus: No matter where you sit—

and the down-to-earth way he expresses it). Open

you’re in for a treat. With its beautiful, glass-

bar, lounge, sushi bar or main dining room—you’ll

for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Bin 36 is the

enclosed wine rooms and 30-foot, floor-to-ceiling

have a great view of the fun scene.

perfect place for a snack of artisan cheeses or

windows overlooking the Wrigley Building and

for a full meal from chef John Caputo’s creative,

Tribune Tower, this restaurant is sure to impress.

“Best New Restaurant in the U.S.,” BRASSERIE JO

And its award-winning cuisine from chef Frank

features the food of Alsace, France, where chef

Brunacci complements the views. His food is full

Jean Joho was born. This brasserie is the only one

of flavorful ingredients and combinations—for

of its kind in Chicago, featuring French classics

It doesn’t get much hipper than SUNDA, the

Winner of the 1996 James Beard Award for

Bin 36 339 N. Dearborn St. 312.755.9463 bin36.com Mon-Wed 6:30 am-11 pm, Thu 6:30 am-12 am, Fri-Sat 7 am-1 am, Sun 7 am-10 pm 0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Osteria via Stato 620 N. State St. 312.642.8450 osteriaviastato.com Mon-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 5-9:30 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Sixteen Trump International Hotel & Tower® 401 N. Wabash Ave. 877.458.7867 trumpchicagohotel.com Sun-Fri 6:30-10:30 am; Sun-Thu 5:30-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-9:30 pm Call for lunch hours 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$

Topolobampo 445 N. Clark St. 312.661.1434 fronterakitchens.com Tue 11:45 am-2 pm, Wed-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Tue-Thu 5:30-9:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$

XOCO 449 N. Clark St. 312.334.3688 rickbayless.com/ restaurants/xoco.html Tue-Thu 7 am-9 pm, Fri 7 am-10 pm, Sat 8 am-10 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $

$ meals $20 and under, $$ meals $21-$35, $$$ meals $35-$50, $$$$ meals $50 and up.

Graham Elliot 217 W. Huron St. 312.624.9975 grahamelliot.com Mon-Sat 5-10:30 pm

contemporary American menu.

Coco Pazzo 300 W. Hubbard St. 312.836.0900 cocopazzochicago.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2:30 pm, Mon-Thu 5:30-10:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-11:00 pm, Sun 5-10 pm 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Naha 500 N. Clark St. 312.321.6242 naha-chicago.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Mon-Thurs 5:30-9:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$

Sunda 110 W. Illinois St. 312.644.0500 sundachicago.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-3 pm; Sun-Wed 5 pm-11 pm, Thu-Sat 5 pm-12 am 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Photo Credits: Bin 36 by Brian Hall; Graham Elliot by Jim Colombo; XOCO by Andrew McCaughan.

Frontera Grill 445 N. Clark St. 312.661.1434 fronterakitchens.com Tue-Fri 11:30 am-2:30 pm, Sat 10:30 am-2:30 pm; Tues 5:20-10 pm, Wed-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Brasserie Jo 59 W. Hubbard St. 312.595.0800 brasseriejo.com Mon-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 4:30-9 pm 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

When it comes to demystifying wine, BIN

überganic HannaH’s Club sandwiCH

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OTOM

DUCK BREAST

BEST BITES

ther Chicago chefs may be better

signature crackling calamari salad, you may not

known outside the Windy City, but

want to share. Look for an Asian-heavy selection of

it’s Paul Kahan with his mini empire

entrées, including grilled Szechuan beef, Japanese-

of restaurants, including BLACKBIRD, AVEC and

style pork loin and Shanghai lobster.

The Publican, who earns locals’ top vote. He was

a pioneer in the farm-to-table movement and it

owners, chef Tony Priolo and wine specialist

shows in menus that reflect the seasons and local

Ciro Longobardo—hence the name—and after

purveyors. The modern food on the plate—such

sampling their fresh, seasonal rustic Italian

as aged pekin duck breast with sauerkraut-dusted

cuisine, we couldn’t agree more. The charming

Yukon Gold potatoes—is a perfect match for the

décor with its terrazzo floors, Italian marble bar

chic, minimalist décor. At next door Avec, be on

and Murano glass-style chandeliers is a perfect

the lookout for off-duty chefs, who come for the

setting for dishes such as prosciutto stuffed with

Mediterranean-style small plates, wines from small

burrata cheese, pasta with boar ragu and any one

producers and a casual, laid-back atmosphere.

of the pizzas from the wood-burning oven. In

warmer weather, opt for a table on the secluded

With beautiful views of Grant Park and its

PICCOLO SOGNO is the “little dream” of its

oh-so-chic second-floor dining room—envision

patio, considered one of the best in the city.

a three-story sculptural screen, boldly colored

upholstery, floor-to-ceiling windows—MERCAT A

expansive open kitchen, you’d never know that

LA PLANXA wows visitors from the moment they

ONE SIXTYBLUE used to be a pickle factory or

With its sleek, modern setting, including an

REPRESENTING THE HISTORICAL CENTER OF DOWNTOWN CHICAGO, THE LOOP IS ENCIRCLED BY ELEVATED TRAIN TRACKS ALONG LAKE ST. (NORTH), WABASH AVE. (EAST), VAN BUREN ST. (SOUTH) AND WELLS ST. (WEST). DOWNTOWN, STRETCHING FROM THE CHICAGO RIVER EAST TO LAKE MICHIGAN, IS THE CITY’S BUSINESS HUB AND THEATER DISTRICT. WEST LOOP IS PART OF THE LOOP NEAR THE CHICAGO RIVER KNOWN FOR TRENDY RESTAURANTS.

By Nicole Sullivan

enter. Fortunately, the traditional and modern riffs

is owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan.

of Spanish food from “The Next Iron Chef” winner

Then there are the surprises on the plate from

Jose Garces follow suit. An extensive selection

chef Michael McDonald, a Charlie Trotter’s alum,

of mostly Spanish wines complement dishes

who uses market-fresh ingredients to inspire his

such as flatbread topped with clams and smoked

contemporary American cuisine. Located near

bacon, tender pork belly with truffle and grilled

the United Center, this sophisticated yet cozy

housemade sausages.

restaurant is a great pre-event spot. Creative

nightly specials in the separate bar-lounge area

Don’t let the “China” in its name fool you—

the cuisine at CHINA GRILL travels the world. Like

attract a loyal following after work and later in the

its exotic décor—check out the glass wine cellar

evening.

pillars—the food is full of surprises. The oversized

portions encourage sharing, but with dishes like

Avec, THE PUBLICAN is an homage to beer, pork

lamb spareribs with a plum-sesame glaze or the

and fish that has been a hit from day one and

From the same team behind Blackbird and

by chef Andrew Zimmerman. Housed in a former

Chef Todd Stein you’ll remember the most.

evocative of a European beer hall with a huge

1890s print shop, Sepia is the brainchild of

Channeling his passion for Italian ingredients, he

communal table as the centerpiece, this restaurant

Emmanuel Nony, who envisioned an updated

creates dishes that are both classic, like squid ink

attracts a lively crowd that appreciates the eclectic

speakeasy for his first solo venture. The menu

pasta with crab, and modern such as bone-in skate

menu inspired by simple farmhouse fare like

highlights the best each season has to offer, such

wing “picatta” with capers. Large parties should

Belgian-style mussels, wood-roasted whole fish

as flat iron steak with exotic mushrooms and

take advantage of the 12-seat chefs table near the

and homemade sausages and charcuterie. Equal

beignets as well as pumpkin and coconut soup

open kitchen.

attention has been paid to the list of artisan craft

with curried apples.

brews from around the world.

movement, it doesn’t get much crazier—and we

a glass and steel staircase to the second floor of

mean that in the nicest way—than Homaro Cantu

theWit hotel, you know you’re in for something

and his restaurant, MOTO. An alum of Charlie

There’s a lot to love about SEPIA, from its

chic, vintage-meets-modern design—check out

From the moment you enter CIBO MATTO via

When it comes to the molecular gastronomy

Trotter’s, he constantly pushes the envelope— THE LOOP INCLUDES THE THEATER DISTRICT SO SEVERAL RESTAURANTS OFFER PRE-SHOW DINNER

think edible menus and food made with lasers

OPTIONS, WHICH BEGIN AROUND 5 PM AND TYPICALLY ARE PRIX FIXE. FOR BROADWAY SHOWS,

and dry ice—creating multi-course meals that are

CHECK OUT THE BANK OF AMERICA, CADILLAC AND FORD CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS/

a multisensory science experiment. But at the root

ORIENTAL THEATERS (LISTING ON PAGE 137). TO SEE THE LYRIC OPERA OF CHICAGO, ONE OF THE

of Cantu’s cooking are top-quality ingredients

BEST OPERA COMPANIES IN THE WORLD, GO TO THE CIVIC OPERA HOUSE.

from around the world. For a more down-toearth experience, neighboring OTOM focuses on

the crystal chandeliers wrapped in a see-through

special. But while the stainless steel wine tower

reinterpreted comfort food classics in the chic

shade in the main dining room—handcrafted

with its 4,000 bottles and the 30-foot ceiling

setting of a former art gallery.

cocktails and creative, ingredient-focused cuisine

frescos are impressive, it’s the cuisine of Executive

Avec 615 W. Randolph St. 312.377.2002 avecrestaurant.com Sun-Thu 3:30 pm-12 am, Fri-Sat 3:30 pm-1 am 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $

Cibo Matto theWit 201 N. State St. 312.239.9500 cibomatto.therestaurantsatthewit.com Tue-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Mon-Sat 5-11 pm 0.2 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Otom 951 W. Fulton Market 312.491.5804 otomrestaurant.com Mon–Thu 5-11 pm, Fri-Sat 5 pm-12 am 1.5 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

The Publican 837 W. Fulton Market 312.733.9555 thepublicanrestaurant.com Mon-Thu 3:30-10:30 pm; Fri-Sat 3:30-11:30 pm; Sun 10 am-2 pm, 5-10 pm 1.4 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

$ meals $20 and under, $$ meals $21-$35, $$$ meals $35-$50, $$$$ meals $50 and up.

Blackbird 619 W. Randolph St. 312.715.0708 blackbirdrestaurant.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Mon-Thu 5-10:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11:30 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$

China Grill Hard Rock Hotel 230 N. Michigan Ave. 312.334.6700 chinagrillmgt.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-5 pm; Mon-Thu 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 5-9 pm LOCATED IN HOTEL $$$

Mercat a la Planxa 638 S. Michigan Ave. 312.765.0524 mercatchicago.com Mon-Thu 6:30 am-11 pm, Fri-Sat 6:30 am-12 am, Sun 6:30 am-10 pm 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Moto 945 W. Fulton Market 312.491.0058 motorestaurant.com Tue-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm

One Sixtyblue 1400 W. Randolph St. 312.850.0303 onesixtyblue.com Mon-Thu 5:30-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-11 pm 2.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Sepia 123 N. Jefferson St. 312.441.1920 sepiachicago.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Mon-Thu 5:15-9:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5:15-10:30 pm, Sun 5-9 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

1.5 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

Piccolo Sogno 464 N. Halsted St. 312.421.0077 piccolosognorestaurant.com Mon-Fri 11 am-2:30 pm; Mon-Thu 5-10:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 5-10 pm 1.4 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Photo Credits: Avec and Blackbird by Douglas Reid Fogelson Photography; Cibo Matto by Wayne Cable, selfmadephoto; Mercat a la Planxa from Mercat a la Planxa; Moto from Moto; The Publican by Bob Briskey Photography; Sepia by Doug Snower.

BEST BITES

shows no signs of letting up. Set in a space

ALINEA

HOT POTATO Photo by Lara Kastner from Alineabook.com

BEST BITES

hen it comes to fine dining, it

Chef Jason Paskewitz may originally be a

choose from (small, medium, large) for brunch and

doesn’t get much better than

New Yorker but with all of his Chicago restaurant

dinner. The menu changes seasonally but be on

CHARLIE TROTTER’S, a destination

experiences—Wave, The Pump Room, JP

the lookout for duck confit nachos, roasted salmon

for food enthusiasts from around the world

Chicago—he feels like one of our own. And that

with smoked bacon and coriander vinaigrette, and

for 23 years. The elegantly decorated two-story

sentiment is felt even more at his newest venture,

handmade short rib ravioli.

brownstone circa 1900 is the perfect backdrop for

GEMINI BISTRO, where the warm and inviting

the sophisticated food of Trotter, a self-taught chef

décor—think dark woods, Edison light fixtures

spent nine years at Charlie Trotter’s and it shows

Executive chef Giuseppe Tentori of BOKA

who’s worked in some 40 restaurants all over the world. With an emphasis on quality ingredients, Trotter’s been an advocate for local farmers long before it became chic, working with more than 90 vendors. The daily-changing tasting menus are designed to highlight the best each season has to offer, such as Arkansas rabbit loin with

NAMED AFTER LINCOLN PARK, THIS NEIGHBORHOOD STRETCHES FROM THE CHICAGO RIVER EAST TO LAKE MICHIGAN AND FROM DIVERSEY PKWY. SOUTH TO NORTH AVE. LINCOLN PARK IS KNOWN FOR ITS UPSCALE HOUSING, RESTAURANTS, SHOPS, GREEN SPACE AND LAKEFRONT RECREATION PATHS. THE PARK ITSELF INCLUDES LINCOLN PARK ZOO AND A STATUE OF GENERAL ULYSSES S. GRANT (IRONICALLY, NOT ABRAHAM LINCOLN).

By Nicole Sullivan

curried tortellini and wilted mustard greens as well as Honeycrisp apples with yogurt. The multi-

and nubby tweed banquettes—fits perfectly with

in his food, which is not only a feast for the eyes

award-winning restaurant is also renowned for

the mix of French bistro classics and seasonal

but the taste buds, too. Following the ingredient-

its wine list, which includes some 1,800 different

contemporary American dishes. This family-

first mantra he learned at Trotter’s, Tentori creates

selections. Call about two months in advance for

friendly restaurant aims to please, with a creative

dishes that let ingredient flavors shine, as in his

reservations. Jackets required.

kids menu (x-small) and several dish sizes to

signature stuffed squid with baby spinach, spicy

BEST BITES

pineapple and black tapioca. While calling his

seared foie gras with wild huckleberries, pumpkin

cuisine “clean and simple,” the Italian native

seed-crusted rockfish and grass-fed beef with

admits he’s a fan of innovative pairings for his

parmesan flan and roasted shallots.

Mediterranean-influenced dishes. That innovation

can be found in the decor of the restaurant

it first opened—it’s a play on the chef’s name,

too, with a dramatic fabric-draped ceiling and

Laurent Gras, and H2O—but now the restaurant

romantic garden. Theater-goers, ask about Boka’s

is recognized as the place for pristine seafood

special prix fixe menu.

in Chicago. French-born Gras blends touches of

Japanese, French and even molecular gastronomy

Even before it opened its doors in 2005,

Some may have disliked the name L2O when

with house-made treats, including the butter,

the food world buzzing. Now, some five years

bread and yogurt, at this spa-like space filled

later, people are still humming about food and

with Macassar Ebony columns, plush couches

presentations that defy labels. Call it what you

and white leather chairs. Past standouts from the

like—molecular gastronomy, sci-fi food or just

constantly evolving menu include peekytoe crab

plain wacky—but odds are once you’ve tried it,

with avocado, lime and lemon oil; creamy salted

you’ll never look at restaurant dining the same

cod with fingerling potatoes; and pork belly with

way again. Case in point: butterscotch-glazed

a black truffle sauce poured tableside. Look for

bacon with apple and thyme draped over wire

classic soufflés as well as modern options for

on a metal stand. The dish sounds simple but

dessert. An extensive wine list caters to both high

is anything but. And that goes for all items on

rollers and those with more limited budgets.

IF DINING NEAR THE LAKE, LEAVE EARLY TO VISIT LINCOLN PARK ZOO, OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR UNTIL 5 PM MOST DAYS AND FREE, OR TAKE A STROLL TO NORTH AVE. BEACH FOR SUNSET. IF DINING ON ARMITAGE AVE. OR HALSTED ST., CHECK OUT THE SHOPS BEFOREHAND ON ARMITAGE, MOVING WEST FROM HALSTED.

the 13- and 29-course menus (whichever one

you choose, be prepared for a long evening).

and a summer farmers’ market, PERENNIAL

The minimalist décor and subdued ambiance

has plenty of farmers represented on its menu.

only hints at the mysteries that await. Come with

Chef Ryan Poli uses his impressive culinary

an open mind, jacket and full wallet. Make a

background, including stints at restaurants in

reservation at least a month in advance.

Spain, to create dishes that are fun and delicious

like sweet corn risotto with white truffle oil and

Even if the food wasn’t terrific (don’t worry,

it is), the setting of NORTH POND, located

grilled cobia fish in a coconut broth. Floor-to-

in Lincoln Park next to a pond overlooking

ceiling windows offer great views, while natural

Chicago’s dramatic skyline, would make up for

touches, such as stone floors and tall white birth

it. Originally built as a warming shelter for ice

tree trunks, create a serene ambiance. Perennial is

skaters in 1912, North Pond has been redesigned

a popular spot for brunch—chocolate and praline

as an upscale restaurant. And it’s in the perfect

pancakes, anyone?—especially when warmer

setting for the creative American cuisine of Chef/

temperatures allow seating on the lovely

Owner Bruce Sherman. A long-time supporter

outdoor patio.

of organic and locally sourced ingredients— check out North Pond’s web site for its list of suppliers—Sherman designs his changing menus around the season’s bounty with dishes such as

Located directly across from Lincoln Park

2.7 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

Boka 1729 N. Halsted St. 312.337.6070 bokachicago.com Sun-Thu 5-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5-10 pm 2.7 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Charlie Trotter’s 816 W. Armitage Ave. 773.248.6228 charlietrotters.com Tue-Thu 6 & 9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30 & 9 pm 3.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

Gemini Bistro 2075 N. Lincoln Ave. 773.525.2522 geminibistrochicago.com Tue-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 10 am-2 pm, 5-9 pm 2.7 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

L2O 2300 N. Lincoln Park West 773.868.0002 l2orestaurant.com Sun-Mon 6-10 pm, Wed-Thu 6-10 pm, Fri 6-11 pm, Sat 5-11 pm 2.9 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

North Pond 2610 N. Cannon Dr. 773.477.5845 northpondrestaurant.com Tue-Sun reservations from 5:30 pm. Call for lunch hours. Closed Tue Jan-April. 3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$

Perennial 1800 N. Lincoln Ave. 312.981.7070 perennialchicago.com Mon-Thu 5-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5-10 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am-2 pm 2.3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

$ meals $20 and under, $$ meals $21-$35, $$$ meals $35-$50, $$$$ meals $50 and up.

Photo Credits: Alinea by Lara Kastner from Alineabook.com; Gemini Bistro by Jamie Hartley; North Pond from North Pond Restaurant; Charlie Trotter’s by Kipling Swehla Photography.

ALINEA and Executive Chef Grant Achatz had

Alinea 1723 N. Halsted St. 312.867.0110 alinea-restaurant.com Wed-Sun 5-9:30 pm

NEIL

BURGER

FURTHER AWAY THAN OTHER RESTAURANTS, THOUGH STILL REASONABLE DISTANCES, THESE OFF-THE-BEATEN-PATH LOCALES ARE WELL WORTH THE EXTRA TAXICAB FARES. FROM EXQUISITE THAI CUISINE TO AN ENTIRE MENU OF MOUTH-WATERING DESSERTS, THESE EATERIES WILL MAKE YOU GO TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH FOR THEIR OFFERINGS. THE BRISTOL

By Nicole Sullivan 56

HEIRLOOM APPLE SALAD Photo by Neil Burger

Photo Credits: Urban Belly® and Belly Shack byYasmina Cadiz; Hot Chocolate by Rachel Kekstedt; The Bristol by Neil Burger; Lula Café by Anthony Tahlier.

Need proof that the dishes served at THE

Arun Sampanthavivat, ARUN’S is

BRISTOL in Bucktown are super fresh? Check

“probably the best Thai restaurant in

out the chalkboard on the back wall that lists

the country,” according to Wolfgang Puck. Once

that day’s offerings. Owned by a trio of industry

a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Chicago,

veterans, including Executive Chef Chris Pandel,

Arun got lured by friends into investing in a fine-

who’s worked at fine-dining restaurants like

dining Thai restaurant, which he opened alone

New York City’s Café Boulud, this intimate

with no food service experience after his friends

neighborhood restaurant keeps it simple. This

got cold feet. Fortunately for his customers, Arun

is true from its décor—think recycled wood

hit it big, borrowing from his southern Thai roots

communal tables and a cement-topped bar—to

to create unique, beautifully styled cuisine that

the food, which focuses on made-from-scratch

pops with flavor. The 12-course tasting menu is

seasonal dishes with Mediterranean roots like

complemented by an elegant, intimate interior,

pork rillettes with apple toast and pumpkin

featuring original paintings by Arun’s brother.

salad with yogurt and pine nuts. Offal fans will

Classic Thai fairytales are visually told in the

appreciate the selection of unusual meat cuts.

artwork, mimicking the dream-like experience of

Handcrafted cocktails are a specialty here along

Arun’s food.

with artisan beers.

When it comes to chefs following the

Sure, this Bucktown restaurant is named

locavore (local, sustainable) movement, it doesn’t

after a dessert and owned by award-winning

get much better than husband and wife team

pastry chef Mindy Segal, but that doesn’t mean

Rob and Allison Levitt of Bucktown’s MADO.

you should skip the savory offerings. The burger

Here, the professionally trained chefs use their

topped with organic bacon and aged cheddar

culinary skills on some of the freshest and most

at HOT CHOCOLATE is one of the city’s best,

local ingredients, including whole pigs and goats

while the lines for brunch—waiting for brioche

that are butchered in-house. The charcuterie

French toast perhaps—attest to the food’s worth.

plate, served on an oh-so-cute pig-shaped board,

But do save room for dessert offerings, such as

has earned a cult following, as has their devotion

Segal’s signature chocolate mousse layer cake,

to nose-to-tail eating. But those not into pig heart

homemade ice creams and doughnuts, and of

needn’t worry; the changing menu also includes

course, hot chocolate, which comes in a variety of

wood-roasted fish, homemade pasta and veggie

flavors.

dishes. For dessert, the fresh fruit crisps and

shortbread shouldn’t be missed.

city’s best fine-dining establishments, including

Long before Logan Square became the

Charlie Trotter’s, but now he’s manning the

trendy neighborhood it is today, LULA CAFÉ was

stoves at two counter service spots that have

dishing out the organic and artisanal fare on

foodies salivating. At Avondale’s URBANBELLY®,

which it built its reputation. Husband and wife

Kim focuses on noodle soups, dumplings and

team Jason Hammel and Amalea Tshilds keep it

fried rice, tapping into his Korean roots for

local—check out their Monday night farm dinner

dishes such as udon with shrimp and coriander

for a special treat—when it comes to ingredients

and short ribs with scallion rice. At BELLY

on their seasonal menu, such as farm-raised

SHACK in Bucktown, Asian and Latin flavors

lamb with crispy potatoes and quince. Brunch

are combined, producing such fusion dishes

here is a ritual for Chicago’s artsy types. With the

as hot and sour hominy soup and a barbecued

addition of the couple’s Nightwood restaurant in

tofu jibarito sandwich. For dessert, it’s gourmet

the Pilsen neighborhood, which has a menu that

soft-serve ice cream with toppings like bacon-

changes daily as well as brunch, getting a seat at

chocolate chip cookie crumbles. Added bonus:

Lula Café isn’t as tough.

Both spots are BYOB.

Chef Bill Kim has worked in some of the

Arun’s 4156 N. Kedzie Ave. 773.539.1909 arunsthai.com Tue-Thu, Sun 5-10 pm; Fri-Sat 5-10:30 pm 7.3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

BEST BITES

amed after Executive Chef/Owner

Belly Shack 1912 N. Western Ave. 773.252.1414 bellyshack.com Tue-Sun 12-10 pm 4.2 MILES FROM HOTEL $

The Bristol 2152 N. Damen Ave. 773.862.5555 thebristolchicago.com Sun 10 am-2:30 pm, 5-10 pm; Mon-Thu 5:30-10 pm; Fri 5:30 pm-12 am; Sat 5 pm-12 am 4.2 MILES FROM HOTEL $ Hot Chocolate 1747 N. Damen Ave. 773.489.1747 hotchocolatechicago.com Sun, Tue-Wed 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30 pm-12 am Call for lunch hours 3.7 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Lula Café 2537 N. Kedzie Blvd. 773.489.9554 lulacafe.com Sun-Mon, Wed-Thu 9 am10 pm; Fri-Sat 9 am-11 pm 5.4 MILES FROM HOTEL $

Mado 1647 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.342.2340 madorestaurantchicago.com Tue-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 5-9 pm 3.6 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Nightwood 2119 S. Halsted St. 312.526.3385 nightwoodrestaurant.com Mon-Sat 5:30-11 pm, Sun 9 am-2:30 pm 3.3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Urbanbelly® 3053 N. California Ave. 773.583.0500 urbanbellychicago.com Tue-Sun 11 am-9 pm 5.7 MILES FROM HOTEL $

$ meals $20 and under, $$ meals $21-$35, $$$ meals $35-$50, $$$$ meals $50 and up.

CHARLIE TROTTER Photo by Kipling Swehla Photography

BEST BITES

f you need proof of the superstar status of

at the some of the country’s leading restaurants,

Mexico—its culture, people and, of course, food—

chef CHARLIE TROTTER, simply look at the

including Thomas Keller’s French Laundry and

and put it into his award-winning restaurants.

volunteer kitchen staff for his eponymous

Charlie Trotter’s. But was it after a meal at Spain’s

restaurant’s 20th anniversary dinner in 2007,

El Bulli, where he became enamored with the

and recipients of Food & Wine magazine’s “Best

which included some of the world’s biggest names

molecular gastronomy movement, that he began

New Chef” award, RICK TRAMONTO and GALE

in food: Thomas Keller, Ferran Adrià, Pierre

down the path which led to his own restaurant,

GAND, partners at TRU restaurant, are two of the

Herme, Heston Blumenthal and Daniel Boulud.

Alinea. He works with at least 20 other chefs to

best-known chefs in Chicago. Tramonto has 30

Trotter didn’t acquire the culinary bug until

create a dining experience like no other.

years of restaurant experience, six cookbooks and

college—he graduated with a degree in political

three James Beard honors under his belt,

science—but he’s been smitten ever since,

BAYLESS had already created a name for himself

appearing on “ The Oprah Show,” “The Today

channeling his passion for the best ingredients

regarding authentic regional Mexican cuisine.

Show,” Food Network’s “Iron Chef America” and as

and perfect dining experience into his Lincoln

Between his numerous cookbooks, television series

a guest judge on Bravo’s “Top Chef.” He oversees

Park restaurant. In addition to his numerous

“Mexico – One Plate at a Time” on PBS, slew of

savory dishes at TRU, while sweet treats are left up

awards, Trotter is well known for his strong

Mexican products and restaurants (Topolobampo,

to Gand, host of the Food Network’s long-running

philanthropic sense, providing culinary

Frontera Grill and XOCO), he’s the go-to guy for

“Sweet Dreams” show and a six-title cookbook

scholarships and complimentary meals at his

food south of the border. Fourth generation in a

author whose resume includes Charlie Trotter’s

restaurant for many local high school students.

family of restaurateurs and grocers, Bayless fell in

and The Pump Room in Chicago. Under the team’s

love with Mexican cuisine while living there after

careful watch, TRU has garnered its own slew of

GRANT ACHATZ knew early on what he wanted to

his doctoral work in anthropological linguistics.

awards, including a Zagat Survey ranking as most

be. But we can’t imagine he knew that he would

Fortunately for Chicagoans, he opted not to pursue

popular restaurant in Chicago, a four-star Mobil

become one of the world’s top chefs, known for

an academic life and instead took his passion for

rating and an AAA Five-Diamond rating.

With restaurateur parents and grandparents,

Even before his “Top Chef Masters” win, RICK

Both James Beard Foundation award winners

his rule-breaking style in creating new flavors and cooking techniques. After graduating from The Culinary Institute of America, Achatz worked

MEET WINDY CITY CHEFS WHO WILL BLOW YOU AWAY

By Nicole Sullivan 59

When chef TONY MANTUANO first opened

BEST BITES

extraordinarily creative. In fact, he’s America’s

the world alongside Flay and Mario Batali. Mercat

Michigan Avenue’s Spiaggia in 1984, the city’s

youngest four-star chef and a recipient of Food

a la Planxa is Garces’ first Chicago restaurant and

big-name restaurateurs told him he’d better

& Wine magazine’s “Best New Chef” award. He

sixth overall.

put a meatball on the menu. It’s a good thing

worked at Chicago restaurants like Charlie

he didn’t listen. Instead, Mantuano stuck to his

Trotter’s, TRU and Avenues before opening

Chicago restaurants, PAUL KAHAN is the name

vision and pioneered Italian fine dining in a city

his namesake “bistronomic” restaurant. At this

that comes up first, although he’d be the last per-

better known for its thick-crust pizza than squid

contemporary American hot spot, no dress codes

son to say so. This down-to-earth chef—he com-

ink pasta. Now, some 25 years later, Spiaggia is

or white tablecloths are welcome – just people

mutes to his restaurants by bike year-round—is

one of the country’s top restaurants, continu-

with an appetite for unique and tasty food and

committed to using local and sustainable ingre-

ing to serve elegant, authentic Italian food and

cocktails.

dients and has long-standing relationships with

attracting a lengthy list of loyal patrons, including

Midwestern farmers, many of whom are featured

the Obamas. But Mantuano isn’t one to rest on

known as the “Latin Emeril,” with his Catalan

prominently on the menus at his restaurants:

his numerous awards; he’s always searching for

restaurant Mercat a la Planxa making Esquire

Blackbird, Avec, The Publican and, most recently,

rare, authentic Italian products to share with his

magazine’s list of the 20 best new restaurants

Big Star, a cash-only, honky-tonk bar/taquería

guests.

for 2008. After completing his first cookbook,

that had foodies twittering long before its doors

“Latin Evolution,” in 2008, Garces went on to

opened. Whether it’s cutting-edge technology,

replaces bread as the meal opener at Graham

defeat Bobby Flay on Food Network’s “Iron Chef

perfectly prepared tacos or Mediterranean small

Elliot restaurant, 30-something chef GRAHAM

America” and the following year won “The Next

plates, Kahan and his partners have created

ELLIOT BOWLES may look pretty average, but he’s

Iron Chef,” making him one of six Iron Chefs in

restaurants that diners can’t get enough of.

Alinea 1723 N. Halsted St. 312.867.0110 alinea-restaurant.com Wed-Sun 5-9:30 pm 2.7 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

Blackbird 619 W. Randolph St. 312.715.0708 blackbirdrestaurant.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm, Mon-Thu 5-10:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11:30 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$

Graham Elliot 217 W. Huron St. 312.624.9975 grahamelliot.com Mon-Sat 5-10:30 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Spiaggia/Café Spiaggia 980 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd fl. 312.280.2750 spiaggiarestaurant.com Sun-Thu 6-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:3010 pm. Call for café hours. 1 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$/$$

Avec 615 W. Randolph St. 312.377.2002 avecrestaurant.com Sun-Thu 3:30 pm-12 am, Fri-Sat 3:30 pm-1 am 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $

Charlie Trotter’s 816 W. Armitage Ave. 773.248.6228 charlietrotters.com Tue-Thu 6 & 9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30 & 9 pm 3.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

Big Star 1531 N. Damen Ave. 773.235.4039 Mon-Fri 4 pm-2 am, Sat 11:30 am-3 am, Sun 11:30 am-2 am 3.5 MILES FROM HOTEL $

Frontera Grill/Topolobampo 445 N. Clark St. 312.661.1434 fronterakitchens.com Hours on page 134 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$/$$$

Mercat a la Planxa 638 S. Michigan Ave. 312.765.0524 mercatchicago.com Mon-Thu 6:30 am-11 pm, Fri-Sat 6:30 am-12 am, Sun 6:30 am-10 pm 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

The Publican 837 W. Fulton Market 312.733.9555 thepublicanrestaurant.com Mon-Thu 3:30-10:30 pm; Fri-Sat 3:30-11:30 pm; Sun 10 am-2 pm, 5-10 pm 1.4 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

TRU 676 N. St. Clair St. 312.202.0001 trurestaurant.com Mon-Thu 6-10 pm, Fri 5:30-11 pm, Sat 5-11 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$$

XOCO 449 N. Clark St. 312.334.3688 rickbayless.com/ restaurants/xoco.html Tue-Thu 7 am-9 pm, Fri 7 am-10 pm, Sat 8 am-10 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $

Photo Credits: Alinea by Lara Kastner from Alineabook.com; Graham Elliot by Jim Colombo; The Publican by Bob Briskey Photography; Spiaggia by Jeff Kauck; XOCO by Andrew McCaughan.

Like the unassuming gourmet popcorn that

Native Chicagoan JOSE GARCES is becoming

When it comes to buzz-worthy, trendsetting

THE ITALIAN TOUCH Photographed by David Leslie Anthony Make-up and hair by Maggie Kerr for Ford Artists Styled by Tony Bryan for Ford Artists Models Ursula and Jenna at Ford Models Chicago Photo Assistant Marc Moran

Hat by Tonya Gross Millinery at tonyagrossmillinery.com, $425. Mesh jacket and skirt (not shown) by Moschino at Ikram, $1,790. Bustier by Chantelle at Neiman Marcus, $250. Black tights by H&M at H&M, $24.95.

Headband by Tasha at Nordstrom, $32. Trench coat by Christian Siriano at Bonnie & Clydeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, $1,700. Leopard print bra by Natori at Neiman Marcus, $74. Skirt by Sharon Wauchob at Robin Richman, $550.

Shawl collar jacket by Hussein Chalayan at Ikram, $1,145. Faux fur stole by H&M at H&M, $19.99 Bag by Bags by Delight at Night & Day Vintage, $45. Skirt and jacket (not shown) by Altuzarra at Ikram, $2,940.

Top hat by Tonya Gross Millinery at tonyagrossmillinery.com, $325. Polka dot ascot by Haband Paterson NJ at Night & Day Vintage, $14. Striped jacket by Vivienne Westwood Anglomania at Bonnie & Clydeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, $940. Skirt by Prada at Prada, $1,040.

Bow hat by Tonya Gross Millinery at tonyagrossmillinery.com, $425. Wool dress with belt by Prada at Prada, $2,040. Polka dot mesh gloves at Lenny & Me, $15. Tights by Fogal at Fogal, $45.

Tulle hat by Tonya Gross Millinery at tonyagrossmillinery.com, $275. Dress by Christian Siriano at Bonnie & Clydeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, $990. Belt with bow by Via Spiga at Nordstrom, $54. Grid cut leather gloves by AlaĂŻa at Ikram, $730. Tights by Fogal at Fogal, $45.

Tulle hat by Tonya Gross Millinery at tonyagrossmillinery.com, $175

Jacket by Robert Rodriguez at Nordstrom, $495. Button-up shirt by Façonnable at Nordstrom, $175. Jewel broach by Cara at Nordstrom, $28. Striped tie by Harry Sadow Inc. New York by Damon at Night & Day Vintage, $12. Leopard print cummerbund by Another Line at Nordstrom, $42. Pants by Ideeën at Bonnie & Clyde’s, $180. Shoes by Christian Louboutin at Nordstrom, $995. Where to Buy: BONNIE & CLYDE’S, 1751 W. Division St., 773.235.2680, shopbonnieandclydes.com; FOGAL, 900 N. Michigan, 312.944.7866, fogal.com; H&M, 840 N. Michigan Ave., 312.640.0060, hm.com; IKRAM, 873 N. Rush St., 312.587.1000, ikram.com; LENNY & ME, 1463 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773.489.5576, lennyandmechicago.com; NEIMAN MARCUS, 737 N. Michigan Ave., 312.642.5900, neimanmarcus.com; NIGHT & DAY VINTAGE, 2228 W. Belmont, 773.327.4045, nightanddayvintage.com; NORDSTROM, 55 E. Grand Ave., 312.464.1515, nordstrom.com; PRADA, 30 E. Oak St., 312.951.1113, prada. com; ROBIN RICHMAN, 2108 N. Damen Ave., 773.278.6150, robinrichman.com; TONYA GROSS MILLINERY, tonyagrossmillinery.com

I LIKETO WATCH Photographed by David Leslie Anthony Styled by Helen Berkun for Ford Artists Make-up by Maggie Kerr for Ford Artists Hair by Christina Culinski for Ford Artists Model Thalita at Ford Models Chicago Photo Assistant Marc Moran Styling Assistant Courtney Cummings Photographed at the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago

Double-breasted trench by Burberry at Burberry, $995. Black stocking by Wolford at Wolford.com, $48. Black slingback by Velvet Angels at Nordstrom, $295

Brown/jade g-string by Valery at Romantika, $99. Brown/jade guêpière corset by Valery at Romantika, $305. Nude thigh-high stockings, by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, price upon request. “Giva” gold sandal by Pelle Moda at Nordstrom, $184.95.

“Iona” leopard-print body suit by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $350. “Angela” black platform boot by Ellie Shoes at Taboo Tabou, $72.95.

“Debbie” bra by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $160. “Debbie” full brief by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $120. “Dreaming of Paris” eye mask by Mary Green at Romantika, $25.

“Opium” violet string thong by Aubade at Romantika, $55. ”Ziggy Stardust” purple feather top by Serious at Taboo Tabou, $84.95.

Rhinestone platform by Bordello at Taboo Tabou, $144.95.

“Gretchen” lace corset by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $250. Marquee eye mask by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur , $130. “Xena” chrome choker by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $240.

“Bridget” black buckle platform by Ellie Shoes at Taboo Tabou, $79.95.

“Trinity” green/black ribbon corset by Burleska at Taboo Tabou, $89.95. ‘Tatiana” black brief by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $90. “Bridget” black buckle platform by Ellie Shoes at Taboo Tabou, $79.95.

“Peek-a-Boo” black/fuchsia skirted thong by Carol Malony at Romantika, $47. “Peek-a-Boo” black/ fuchsia bra by Carol Malony at Romantika, $75. ”Meow” eye mask by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $190. Black choker with rhinestone lock by Brasshead at Taboo Tabou, $79.95.

“Trinity” green/black ribbon corset by Burleska at Taboo Tabou $89.95. ‘Tatiana” black brief by Agent Provocateur at Agent Provocateur, $90. “Bridget” black buckle platform by Ellie Shoes at Taboo Tabou $79.95. Where to Buy: AGENT PROVOCATEUR, 47 E. Oak St., 312.335.0229, agentprovocateur.com; BURBERRY, 633 N. Michigan Ave., 312.787.2500, burberry. com; NORDSTROM, 55 E. Grand Ave., 312.464.1515, nordstrom.com; ROMANTIKA, 711 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL, 847.520.7277, romantika-lingerie.com; TABOO TABOU, 854 W. Belmont Ave., 773.723.3739; WOLFORD, wolford.com All stores in Chicago unless otherwise noted.

DEFINING MOMENT Just like the little black dress, black eyeliner remains every chic womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic beauty trick. Whether paired with deeply hued lips or a nude mouth, smudged black kohl, powder or liquid will always look timeless. Photographed by David Leslie Anthony Make-up by Maggie Kerr for Ford Artists Hair by Christina Culinski for Ford Artists Styled by Helen Berkun for Ford Artists Models Rose and Siv at Ford Models Chicago

Eyeshadow in 27S Golden Bronze, Eyeshadow in 10S White, Long-Lasting Eyeliner Pencil in 1 Black, ProVitamin B5 and Rice Bran Mascara in 1 Black, Mango Lip Butter, Mango Butter Lipstick in 36 Natural Brown. All products by Korres, available at Sephora. Silver cashmere and silk tube dress by Donna Karan.

Matte Eyeshadow in Fez, Shimmer Eyeshadow in Galapagos, Eyeliner Pencil in Black Moon, Eyeliner Stylo in Nuit Blanches, Larger Than Lifeโ ข Lengthening Mascara in Black, SemiMatte Lipstick in Catfight. All products by NARS, available at Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Sephora. Tulle rose collar and cape (worn as hood) by Comme des Garรงons.

Shimmer Eyeshadow in Nepal, Matte Eyeshadow in Blondie, Eyeliner Pencil in Black Moon, Nightlife Collection Eyeshadow in Night Breed, Larger Than Lifeโ ข Volumizing Mascara in Black, Semi-Matte Lipstick in Fire Down Below, Lipliner Pencil in Jungle Red. All products by NARS, available at Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Sephora. Cape by Comme des Garรงons and leather bra by Dolce & Gabbana.

5S Eye Pencil, Eyeshadow in 54S Dark Grey, Eyeshadow in 10S White, Soft Eyeliner Pencil in 1 Black, Abyssinia Mascara in 1 Black, Mango Lip Butter, Guava Lipstick in 13 Natural Pink. All products by Korres, available at Sephora. Cape by Comme des Garรงons. Special thanks to Stephanie, Emilie and Monica at Ford Models Chicago.

BEAUTY

omen have spent years covering

called THE REGENERATING SERUM™ ($250). In

that fatty acids are beneficial to hair and eyelashes,

their physical flaws with make-up,

addition to Miracle Broth™, the serum contains

too. Instead of eating healthy fatty acids in the

but today’s cosmetic companies

the bio-fermented stem cells of a highly resilient

Mediterranean diet, try Mediterranean eyelashes

are looking to natural ingredients with healing

marine plant, Eryngium maritimum. The cells are

with the new ABYSSINIA MASCARA ($20) by Greek

and restoring properties so their products help

obtained sustainably without harming the plant.

cosmetic company Korres. Though not edible, oil

improve skin, hair and even eyelashes with daily

Stem cells help a plant grow and regenerate and

from the plant Crambe abyssinica is useful for its

use. And although these aren’t your standard

apparently, they do the same for human skin – The

high concentration of erucic acid and ability to

natural ingredients, we can assure you that you do

Regenerating Serum™ triggers the production

resist corrosion. It gradually thickens lashes with

want bio-fermented marine plant stem cells on

of “youth proteins” like collagen and reduces

daily use, while an olive oil emulsifier softens

your face.

inflammation and stress on the skin, which in

them.

turn, reduces wrinkles. Look for this novel sea

product as of March 2010.

Keihl’s, the newly released companion to its

best-selling Amino Acid Shampoo, uses amino

NEW BEAUTY PRODUCTS DESIGNED TO CORRECT AND PROTECT CELLS

By Kristyn Schiavone

treats and hides wrinkles, compliments of

acids to moisturize by increasing the hair’s water

Tarte Cosmetics’ RECREATE™ ($37), an anti-

retention and jojoba oil to maintain moisture

aging foundation with SPF and Tarte’s Wrinkle

balance. Coconut oil’s high saturated fat content

in a brand new serum from La Mer, already

Rewind™ technology, formulated to hydrate the

softens hair without weighing it down while wheat

famous for its Crème de la Mer. The foundation

skin and restore elasticity. The foundation also

proteins help make hair shiny.

of La Mer products is Miracle Broth™, created

contains peat, goji berry and wheat extracts for

by aerospace physicist Max Huber, Ph.D., to help

nutrients and natural mineral pigments to soothe

nature knows best – and luckily, we have cutting-

heal his scars from a lab accident. Now, a team of

skin. In four weeks of use, ReCreate™ has been

edge cosmetic companies to bottle it up for us.

physicists, marine botanists and biologists have

shown to increase skin firmness and reduce

taken Huber’s original assumption that sea kelp

wrinkles by up to 40 percent.

had healing properties (hence, La Mer – “the sea”

in French) and devised an anti-aging treatment

acids are vital to overall health, so it makes sense

Another new beauty offering simultaneously

AMINO ACID CONDITIONER ($19) from

Marine plant stem cells are the secret weapon

Increasing research shows that certain fatty

It appears that when it comes to beauty,

FEATURE

CREATIVE GENIUS GIVES LUXURY A NEW NAME IN TRANSPORTATION

By Angela Dansby Photographed by David Leslie Anthony

FEATURE

SIR ALFRED J. DIMORA in his Clenet Continental that was featured in the TV shows “Dynasty” and “Dallas.”

FEATURE

n the 1980s, the Clenet Series I was

it real, remaining true to his humble roots. He is

arguably the finest luxury car in the world.

down-to-earth, direct and personable with a great

station. A man came in one day with an original

Its 1930s styling and hand craftsmanship

sense of humor.

Clenet, which DiMora “fixed on the spot.” That

was one of a kind. And it was designed by then

man turned out to be an employee of Alain Clenet,

19-year-old Alfred J. DiMora, who took the original

was nuts. But I always knew that I was on the right

founder of Clenet Coachworks Inc. Clenet hired

Clenet to the next level. He was a diamond in

track. I’m the most optimistic person you’ll ever

DiMora as one of his first employees in 1976 to

the rough who got the chance to shine when he

meet. I don’t like the word ‘no.’”

help take his luxury car line to the next level.

created what Automotive Age called “Drive Art”

Indeed, DiMora did.

and Fortune magazine dubbed the “American

millionaire in Palm Springs, Calif., who travels

Rolls-Royce.” For decades, DiMora was the king

around the world speaking at events and working

Motorcar Company. His Sceptre 6.6S car won the

of handmade luxury cars. Now, he is about to

with rich and famous customers. He is the epitome

Best-of-Show award at the Los Angeles Auto Show

return as the king with the forthcoming launch of

of the American dream, a tale of rags to riches, who

in 1978 when DiMora was a mere 23 years old.

his Natalia SLS 2—a sport luxury sedan that one

now makes other peoples’ dreams come true with

In 1980, DiMora purchased the assets of Clenet

could practically live in, with amenities made from

his custom innovations and charitable spirit.

Coachworks when it halted production and filed

dreams.

for bankruptcy. He revived Clenet production

said. “I really try to think outside the box. I don’t

at a new factory in Carpinteria, Calif. As owner,

want to end up with the box.”

CEO and Chief Automotive Designer, he created

Sir Alfred DiMora, founder and CEO of

DiMora Motorcar, is a modern day Henry Ford, but

“I never quit,” he said. “People once thought I

His efforts have paid off. Today, DiMora is a

“The imagination can run in any direction,” he

with a knack for customization, not automation.

DiMora got his first job working at a gas

Shortly thereafter, DiMora co-founded Sceptre

and manufactured the Series IV Sportster and

DRIVEN AT AN EARLY AGE

Just as Ford’s Model T set the stage for future

car manufacturing, DiMora’s inventions will impact the design, engineering and technology of transportation vehicles for generations to come.

designed the prototype Series V Clenet. Altogether,

iMora’s mother passed away when he

about 580 Clenets were produced and sold to

was two years old, so he was raised by

celebrities, royalty and other motor enthusiasts

his father and Italian-born stepmother.

around the world.

Similarly, as the Model T signified the beginning

Both orphans, they were a plumber and tailor,

of the Motor Age, DiMora’s Natalia SLS 2 will

respectively. DiMora grew up with three brothers

the Official Centennial Car in 1986, the year that

bring about new types of luxury cars—ones that

and two sisters.

President Ronald Reagan declared the Centennial

go beyond smooth rides, offering personal and

Year of the Gasoline-Powered Automobile. As a

professional services that have never been put in

years old as a fan of Carroll Shelby race cars and

result, DiMora was honored at the Automotive Hall

cars before.

Pininfarina designs. At 14, DiMora was hugely

of Fame in Dearborn, Mich.

“I never quit. People once thought I was nuts. But I always knew that I was on the right track.”

He was fascinated with cars since he was 10

DiMora’s Clenet Continental was selected as

influenced by the film “American Graffiti.” Ever since he saw it, he had a real drive to build cars.

ROYAL DRIVES

He worked at service stations in his early teens,

ased in Palm Springs, Calif., DiMora

rebuilding a burned-out 1939 Buick before he was

old enough to drive. Working in a co-op program,

he earned his machinist degree and became a

conventional notion of a car. Imagine pulling into

certified welder.

your garage and watching a movie on the back

But like Bill Gates, DiMora has limited higher

wall through the car’s headlights. Or keeping your

education—he stopped after 12th grade—because

smoothie cold with the touch of a button on a cup

he was off and running with his talents. It took

holder. Like Oz behind the curtain in the “Wizard

huge personal risk and motivation. At 18, DiMora

of Oz,” DiMora designs cars, motorcycles and more

boats, jet skis, jewelry and more as founder and

moved from his hometown of Rochester, N.Y., to

in his office, creating magic outside the walls.

CEO of DiMora Custom Bikes, DiMora Watercraft,

Santa Barbara, Calif., the hub of car designers

DiMora Customs and DiMora Jewelry. He is a

and Hollywood at that time, to follow his dream

including the Clenet, Sceptre, Scattare and JX

designer of the highest degree.

of building a dream car. He trekked across the

Coupe—and forthcoming is the Natalia SLS 2.

country with $400 in his pocket and slept on the

Each car is a limited edition that sells for about

creative genius, whose clients are celebrities and

beach for about four months while looking for

$2 million. They have around 6,500 components

billionaires around the world. Yet, DiMora keeps

work.

compared to roughly 6,000 pieces in “normal” cars.

100

DiMora also designs exquisite motorcycles,

Who is DiMora? A self-made man and

Motorcar designs and builds custom luxury automobiles that blow away any

DiMora has created many cars to date—

FEATURE

ALFRED AND YVONNE DIMORA at their home in Palm Springs, Calif.

101

DiMora cars are owned by the likes of Wayne

It’s no secret that he has contributed to

FEATURE

Newton, Sylvester Stallone, Rod Stewart, Julio

many patents related to automotive design and

Iglesias, boxer Ken North, Jenny Craig and the late

engineering. Next up are potential patents related

Farrah Fawcett and King Hussein of Jordan. But

to environmental sustainability. For example, he’s

the lion’s share of DiMora Motorcar customers are

currently working with a company that makes

in the United Arab Emirates, Russia and China and

paper car batteries.

soon, DiMora expects, India.

“This country was built on small companies and people in their garages … Money doesn’t build companies, thinkers and innovators do.”

“Smog is an issue in so many cities,” DiMora

said, “but I’m not convinced about electricity or

NATALIA SLS 2

he forthcoming Natalia SLS 2 is named in honor of DiMora’s stepmother, Mary, whose maiden name is Natale.

“It’s important to create things that people

won’t forget,” DiMora said. “If you name cars after women, that’s fun and simple.”

Similarly, the SLS 2 stands for sport luxury

hydrogen yet for cars. Google is sucking up our grid as it is. If you want an electric car, buy a golf cart.”

In spite of his joke, DiMora hopes to build an

electric car that doesn’t cost a lot and can do better than the current speed and distance limitations of electric vehicles. He also has a two-passenger luxury car in the works.

sedan, $2 million. Like DiMora himself, it’s straight-forward.

“The goal for the Natalia is to be completely

distinctive from bumper to bumper, the most powerful four-door sport luxury automobile in transportation history,” he said.

The Natalia SLS 2 has 18 more months of

development to go. But here are a few teasers: its body will be made from lava rock, so “it can take punishment,” DiMora said. It will absorb heat at night and reflect it by day. The window glass will shade itself in grades from one to 10 as opposed to just opaque or clear and windshield wipers

Like DiMora Motorcars, newly founded DiMora Custom Bikes focuses on innovation in technology and engineering in motorcycles along with beauty. “Hand Built Just Feels Better” is the new company’s slogan.

A TRUE DESIGNER

“

’m a designer,” DiMora said. “I love designing anything. I see things differently than most people.”

Ain’t that the truth. Not only does he create

the world’s most exquisite cars, he designs high end motorcycles, boats, jet skis and even jewelry. But his number one passion is cars, followed by motorcycles.

“I guess I just like things on wheels,”

DiMora said.

“The motorcycle industry is hurting really

badly,” DiMora said. “Most people are going out of business and I’m going in. If you build the best, you get the best. People want quality. Our reputation of design work over the past 35 years gives us brand recognition.

“Everybody calls me the dreamer,” he added. “I

dream first, then I come up with a theme – whether it’s sky, women or shapes – and build.”

DiMora is also developing an electric jet ski

that makes no noise or pollution. It was inspired by the silent stealth bomber plane. This jet ski will have four seats so a cooler and other amenities

will be heated. Each Natalia will be numbered with a plaque and only 75 a year will be initially produced.

“Natalia is a real James Bond car,” DiMora said.

“The concept is that you can feel like you’re in a sports car while drinking fine wine in the back seat with all the amenities to do business, including a fax machine.”

DiMora Motorcar plans to make its advanced

technologies available industry-wide to further car design and engineering for everyone, not just those lucky enough to drive one of his models.

“I want to improve things for the future of

mankind,” DiMora noted. “The Natalia will change the futuristic nature of cars. People say ‘you’re giving away all of your trade secrets’ and I say ‘yeah, but I own many of them.’”

102

DIMORA SERIES 180-1280 MOTORCYCLE Photo from DiMora Motorcar

will fit in it. The jet ski will attach to mega yachts and be

electric jet ski in 2010. It will sell for about $100,000.

“A larger jet ski is more comfortable, plus you can

fish from it,” DiMora said. “In Dubai, for example, the

FEATURE

able to run in the open sea. DiMora plans to launch his

water is low, so it’s ideal for fishing.”

He is also developing a two-seater jet ski, which

will be half the price and scaled down, for launch in 2011. DiMora wants to do as much good as possible for the environment with electric vehicles, including motorcycles and helicopters.

And that’s not all. DiMora is working on a light

aircraft for one person that will take off vertically like a rocket. It will be a hovercraft with excellent maneuverability. He is also a major participant in the development of Voyager, the world’s largest Ferris wheel. The first two 600-foot diameter “observation wheels” will be built in Las Vegas and Dubai.

“It’s an out-of-this-world project that I’m happy

to be part of,” DiMora said. “Las Vegas and Dubai are obvious places for an over-the-top object like this. Most of my customers are over the top.”

Case in point, several of DiMora’s customers hire

him to design jewelry that costs $250,000 and up, made from the highest quality diamonds, metals and/or other precious gems. According to DiMora, each piece of jewelry is hand-designed and no two pieces are alike.

“A woman once said to me,” DiMora laughed, “‘you

just kind of wish for something and bam! It’s right in front of you.’ That’s why I always tell people ‘be careful what you dream for.’”

Indeed, it seems there is nothing he can’t create.

PASSION FIRST

“

y life is my work,” DiMora stated. “I don’t feel like I’m at work ever. I feel like a little kid in a sandbox. People ask, ‘when are you

going to grow up?’ And I ask ‘why?’”

That’s an appropriate question for someone who

averages 4.5 hours of sleep a night. His typical work day is speaking somewhere in the world, then designing from around 9:30 pm to 3:30 am.

“I can’t get inspired during the day because too

many people are yanking and pulling at me,” he said. “I’m going to get all the sleep I want when I’m dead.” SIR ALFRED J. DIMORA driving his Clenet Continental in Palm Springs, Calif.

103

FEATURE

104

FEATURE

ALFRED AND YVONNE DIMORA

105

FEATURE

NATALIA SLS 2 Image from DiMora Motorcar

Dream Car of the Future DiMora’s Natalia SLS 2, a $2 million sport luxury sedan, will be the world’s fastest, most technologically savvy and luxurious four-door car in transportation history. Not only will it be one heck of a ride for lucky owners, it will inspire improvements in all cars down the road with the introduction of neverbeen-seen-before technologies and amenities. Here are some examples: • A V16 VOLCANO ENGINE WILL PRODUCE 1200

• REVOLUTIONARY PAINT TECHNOLOGY WILL MAKE

• A WIRELESS PERSONAL COMPUTER WILL BE SMALL AND

NATALIA CHANGE FROM BLACK OR BLUE WHEN IT’S COOL

LIGHTWEIGHT BUT POWERFUL WITH ONE GIGABYTE OF

OUTSIDE TO WHITE WHEN IT’S HOT.

MEMORY AND A 100-GIGABYTE HARD DRIVE; IT WILL WIRELESSLY CONNECT TO AN EXTERNAL MONITOR, FULL-

• SUPED-UP BUMPERS WITH A PATENTED NEW DESIGN WILL

SIZE KEYBOARD, THE INTERNET AND PORTABLE PRINTER, IN

MINIMIZE ANY DAMAGE UPON IMPACT.

OR OUT OF THE CAR.

• NIGHT VISION WILL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE

• BACK-SEAT PASSENGERS WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY A BAR

WINDSHIELD DISPLAY AND EXTERNAL CAMERAS

AND REMOTE-CONTROLLED, RETRACTABLE TV SCREENS

THROUGHOUT THE CAR WILL ELIMINATE ANY BLIND SPOTS.

THAT HAVE DIRECTED SOUND TECHNOLOGY SO EACH PERSON CAN WATCH DIFFERENT PROGRAMMING WITHOUT

HORSEPOWER WITH EXCELLENT GAS MILEAGE BY USING VARIABLE-CYLINDER TECHNOLOGY AND A SUPER

• VIDEO-PROJECTING HEADLIGHTS WILL CONTAIN SMALL

LIGHTWEIGHT ENGINE BLOCK.

SCREENS AND A VIDEO PROJECTOR TO DISPLAY ANY

SOUND INTERFERENCE.

VIDEO STREAM FROM NATALIA’S DVD PLAYER, SATELLITE TV

• THERMALLY CONTROLLED CUP HOLDERS WILL KEEP

• AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FUEL SYSTEM

BROADCASTS OR LIVE VIDEO COMING FROM ANY OF THE

DRINKS HOT OR COLD WITH THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON, OR

WILL OFFER GREAT GAS MILEAGE, WHILE INCREASING

CAR’S CAMERAS.

PASSENGERS CAN ENJOY WINE FROM A BOTTLE WITH A SELF-UNCORKING SYSTEM.

PERFORMANCE AND DECREASING EMISSIONS TO THE POINT THAT A CATALYTIC CONVERTER IS UNNECESSARY.

• ADVANCED AEROSPACE MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION

• HOLLYWOOD-ESQUE LIGHTING WILL BE INSIDE AND OUT OF THE CAR FOR SPECIAL EFFECTS AND TO HELP KEEP THE

• LUXURIOUS ACCENTS WILL COME FROM ITALIAN

DRIVER ALERT.

WALNUT, HAND-INLAID BURL WOOD ON THE DASH AND BAR, ENGLISH WOOL CARPETING AND LAMB’S WOOL MATS

TECHNIQUES WILL GIVE SUPERIOR STRENGTH TO THE CAR’S BODY AND CHASSIS, ADDING TO PASSENGER SAFETY AND

• A PHYSICALLY ACCOMMODATING FRONT PASSENGER

IMPROVED GAS MILEAGE AND PERFORMANCE.

SEAT WILL GLIDE FORWARD, ROTATE 90 DEGREES AND

• MORE THAN 60 ONBOARD COMPUTER SYSTEMS WILL

AND A LIGHTED WATERFORD CRYSTAL ASHTRAY.

TRANSPORT THE PASSENGER TO THE SIDEWALK OR A

• A LIMITED PRODUCTION PURSE WORTH $12,000 WILL BE

WHEELCHAIR.

INCLUDED WITH EACH NATALIA SLS 2.

• NASA FOAM TECHNOLOGY, A GEL LINING AND SPECIAL

The first prototype of Natalia SLS 2 is now under

LEATHER WILL MAKES SEATS EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE

construction. It’s slated for completion in 2011, with

CONTROL THE CAR’S PERFORMANCE, SAFETY, COMFORT, COMMUNICATIONS AND ENTERTAINMENT.

• FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE AND STEERING WILL OFFER

AND COMPUTERIZED REAR SEAT MASSAGE WILL PREVENT

OUTSTANDING HANDLING AND SAFETY.

ANY PASSENGER FROM CALLING “SHOTGUN.”

• VARIABLE SUSPENSION WILL MAKE FOR AN EXTRA

• NORMAL ELECTRIC OUTLETS WILL BE INSTALLED TO

SMOOTH RIDE.

POWER UP ANYTHING IN THE CAR.

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limited production to follow. Roughly four cars a month will be handmade by 200 employees. For more information, go to dimoramotorcar.com.

DiMora loves doing things people say can’t be

DiMora has a car collection comprised mainly

He noted that his stepmother Mary instilled in

done and enjoys taking on good challenges.

of his own creations, including a Sceptre 6.6S

him the importance of giving back to society.

(only 16 of these were ever made), three Clenets,

noted. “Always do what you love. You have to be

including one he created for the television shows

drove my interest in philanthropy,” DiMora said.

willing to sacrifice and the people you’re with have

“Dynasty” and “Dallas,” a car he created for the

to understand.”

movie industry and a Mangusta Qvale. In 2009,

TV show, he’s going to design complimentary

DiMora was one of several people included in a

wheelchairs for people who are physically

photo for the Guinness Book of World Records for

challenged. It will be a charitable program that’s

the most movie cars in one location at a time.

educational.

“Passion and desire are the keys to success,” he

RENAISSANCE MAN

hile DiMora says his work is his main “hobby,” cooking could be his second. Embracing his Italian

ancestry, DiMora frequently cooks, especially on Sundays, as a stress reliever. He is known for his eggplant parmigiana and tri-tip steak, but he will make anything, especially healthier dishes for his

While DiMora clearly enjoys some of the finest

simple guy.”

and the poor, for his philanthropic work.

“I love high tech stuff like supercomputers,

my Dell notebook and iPhone (an incredible little

Watch How Dreams are Built

How does the chef stay in shape? He tries

Want to learn more about DiMora’s inventions? Stay tuned for DiMora TV, which will be coming online in 2010 at dimoracustombikes.com as well as broadcast on CBS-TV, the Speed Channel, Discovery Channel and more. The reality show, “Where Themes Begin by DiMora,” will focus on designing small transportation vehicles like motorcycles, jet skis and choppers for companies’ marketing or advertising purposes. Think the opposite of MTV’s “Pimp My Ride.”

snakes and quails in his backyard. “If you don’t have your health, you don’t have

anything,” he said. When not cooking or exercising, DiMora is

likely at a car, motorcycle or plane show, out on the water, overseas or at the Palm Springs Polo Club. While he’s just a polo spectator now, he says

134-pound halibut in Alaska!)

DiMora also loves the drums. He has played

them since he was 10, joining several bands over

said. “It means to have really given something of

DiMora was honored in 2009 with a star on the

Palm Springs Walk of Stars as an entrepreneur and humanitarian.

DARE TO DREAM

ntrepreneurs, take note. “Follow your dream, don’t listen to anybody and move forward,” DiMora

said. “If I listened to people who told me how crazy I was, including my parents, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Some of the strongest people out there have had all kinds of problems but they

he may play it in the future. Meanwhile, he enjoys boating and fishing. (One time, he reeled in a

“It was a very big honor to become a ‘sir,’” he

yourself.”

prefers the outdoors to a gym in spite of coyotes,

In 2001, DiMora was inducted into the Knights

of Malta, an order devoted to defending the sick

to walk five miles a day and rides his bicycle. He

For example, on a forthcoming DiMora

things in life, he describes himself as a “pretty

wife, Yvonne, and stepdaughter, Chanel.

“She taught me values, respect for others and

piece of equipment),” he said, “though normally, I’d rather buy a piece of machinery or an old book.”

A RICH HEART

the years. He even toured a bit with an R&B style band called Thunder Up years ago. Today, jazz is his preferred style of music by artists such as Chuck

got right back up on the horse and started riding. If you think you’re never going to make a mistake, you’re kidding. You’re going to fall and learn from mistakes.”

iMora is very compassionate to people

Such qualities are what DiMora looks for in

in need. He participates in a lot of

employees – those who are street smart, witty and

fundraisers for charities and is known

believe in themselves and want to help themselves

Mangione, Steve Tyrell and Sade.

for his humanitarian efforts for such causes as

be better people. Higher education is less

breast cancer and Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and

important; for example, DiMora has never hired

destinations include Italy, Dubai and Abu Dhabi of

Huntington’s diseases. He actively supports

someone with an MBA.

the United Arab Emirates, the south of France and

DesertArc for the mentally handicapped and

Monte Carlo. He works hard and plays hard.

the Make-A-Wish Foundation for children with

and people in their garages, who focused on

life-threatening medical problems. One of his

innovation,” he noted. “Money doesn’t build

my life. It inspires my designs and new ideas.”

pet projects is supporting injured Marines as his

companies, thinkers and innovators do.”

stepson, Josh, is serving in Afghanistan with the

plane, you would likely find him reading a book –

U.S. Marine Corps.

says, “Let us drive your dreams.” Thank you to the

perhaps an old one – related to cars or motorcycles.

return of the king for dreaming the drives. They

Case in point, his recent favorite book was a

themselves and to make peoples’ lives a little

biography about an automotive manufacturer.

better,” he said. “I’ve been down and out before

A globetrotter, DiMora’s favorite travel

“I love travel,” he noted. “It’s a real priority in

Not surprisingly, if you sat next to DiMora on a

FEATURE

“I do whatever I can to help people help

“This country was built on small companies

Hence, the slogan at dimoramotorcar.com

will be the rides of our lives. 

myself. I wish I had more time to do more.”

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DINING

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that is, in his words, “fine dining, redefined.” That

Since it opened in 1992, Coco Pazzo quickly

and dinner menus in dishes such as Great Lakes

means a lack of dress codes, white tablecloths

became known as the place for authentic Tuscan

whitefish with butter-poached Maine lobster and

and elaborate floral displays. What you will find

cuisine in Chicago. With a menu that features both

wheatberries. Lunch diners should definitely opt

at Graham Elliot is contemporary American food

traditional and contemporary ingredients and

for the Angus beef burger, while in the lounge, it’s

that’s big on breaking rules and huge on flavor.

plenty of made-in-house items, including pastas

the glazed chicken wings that we can’t resist.

Sample dishes are his signature Caesar salad with

and breads, this beloved restaurant maintains a

stuffed brioche rectangles and a cheddar-bacon

loyal following. The loft-like space is both so-

Asian hot spot from the same owners as Rockit

risotto studded with Cheez-It® crackers. Look

phisticated and cozy, with its colorful murals and

Bar & Grill and The Underground nightclub. But

for an equally creative and delicious handcrafted

copper-topped bar. The menu changes seasonally

in addition to its scenester status and chic décor—

cocktail list.

but you won’t go wrong with anything that comes

yes, go ahead and wear your trendiest threads—

out of the wood-burning oven, including the whole

Sunda’s executive chef Rodelio Aglibot serves up

restaurant empire (Rich Melman of Lettuce Enter-

sea bass.

some original and tasty dishes. We’re big fans of his

tain You Enterprises, Inc.), R.J. and Jerrod Melman

crispy rice topped with spicy tuna, Kobe beef or

unsurprisingly have a knack in the business as

habedian cousins—executive chef Carrie and

shrimp tempura as well as the lemongrass beef lol-

well. Stop by Hub 51 any time of the day and you’ll

head of operations Michael—have combined their

lipops. Added bonus: No matter where you sit—bar,

find it packed with locals chowing on juicy burgers,

numerous talents to create this award-winning

lounge, sushi bar or main dining room—you’ll have

tacos with housemade tortillas and sushi (yes, su-

restaurant. Combining her Armenian roots with

a great view of the fun scene.

shi, and yes, it’s good). The bar area gets an equally

cooking experience at Four Seasons hotels, Carrie

lively crowd with its varied selection of draft beers,

creates food that is both classic and contemporary.

wines by the glass, sake and daily cocktail.

Her love for local purveyors is all over the lunch

With a father who’s head of a uber-successful

It’s a family affair at Naha, where the Na-

It doesn’t get much hipper than Sunda, the

Modern Hotel Somewhere 1234 Street St. 312.XXX.XXXX Hotel.com Tue-Thu 5:30-10 pm, Fri 5:3010:30 pm, Sat 5-10:30 pm 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$$

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Photo by Steven Hall, © Hedrich Blessing

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CLUTURE

CHICAGO BOASTS FINE ART AND ARTIFACTS

By Diane Molho

rom the largest and most complete

museum’s Asian collection of some 35,000 objects

an 800-year-old pueblo dwelling, stand toe-to-

Tyrannosaurus rex ever found to serene

includes Chinese bronzes, Japanese textiles and

paw with the terrorizing lions of Tsavo and watch

Impressionist paintings by Claude

Indian sculptures. With the 2009 opening of the

fossilized bones get readied for scientific study.

Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Chicago’s

264,000-square-foot Modern Wing, which houses

And kids get to go wild in the Crown Family

museums rank among the best in the world. Here’s

20th- and 21st-century art in a breathtaking build-

PlayLab with hands-on exhibits and activities.

where we go to stretch our minds.

ing designed by award-winning architect Renzo

Piano, the Art Institute is an even bigger player in

tank at the SHEDD AQUARIUM, one of the world’s

from around the globe representing more than

the world art scene.

largest aquariums. Dedicated to fostering an

5,000 years of artistic creation. Its collection of

appreciation for marine and animal life and

Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings

the 42-foot-long T. rex Sue, but there’s much more

located inside a national historic landmark, the

includes many notable works, such as Henri de

at THE FIELD MUSEUM than old bones. Backed by

aquarium has an amphitheater with more than

Toulouse-Lautrec’s “At the Moulin Rouge” and

$1 million from retail tycoon Marshall Field, the

1,100 seats and an oceanarium with beluga whales,

Monet’s “Water Lilies.” Artists like Ed Paschke and

museum was started to hold collections from the

sea lions, dolphins, penguins and sea otters. Some

architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, both noted for

World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. Inside

of them appear in “Fantasea,” a spectacular aquatic

their work in Chicago, are also represented. The

the neoclassical building, you’ll find a replica of

show. At the award-winning Wild Reef exhibit, you

THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO features works

It may be famous for its dinosaurs, including

Tap into your watery side minus the scuba

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DINING

can explore underwater gardens of corals and get

on art created since 1945 and includes pieces from

by Abraham Lincoln to a 1960 Playboy bunny

up-close and personal with sharks. Take an exotic

such noteworthy artists as Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons

ensemble. Other permanent collections include the

trip to South America, minus the jet lag, in Amazon

and Lee Bontecou. Beyond the permanent displays,

radio recordings of Studs Terkel and a stained glass

Rising, where you’ll see anacondas, piranhas and

the MCA consistently offers touring and temporary

window designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

crocodiles.

exhibitions as well as music, dance and theater

performances. In the summer, its beautiful terrace

the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition designed

PLANETARIUM, America’s first and oldest

is the site of a weekly farmers’ market and live

by Burnham & Root, the MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND

planetarium and home to Chicago’s largest

jazz on Tuesday evenings. Be sure to stop by the

INDUSTRY offers multimedia shows and high-

public telescope. Created by Sears, Roebuck and

museum shop, which houses an eclectic collection

tech exhibits that’ll bring out the science geek

Company executive Max Adler, the planetarium

of gifts.

in everyone. Its 400,000 square feet of exhibits

Right on the lakefront is the ADLER

Housed in the only remaining structure from

occupies four floors and includes an authentically

CHECK OUT TERZO PIANO, THE NEW RESTAURANT FROM SPIAGGIA STAR CHEF TONY

restored German submarine from World War II,

MANTUANO, IN THE MODERN WING OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO FOR LUNCH OR

a scale model of Chicago skyscrapers and a coal

THURSDAY DINNER. IN THE SUMMER, SAVOR THE FRESH, LOCAL INGREDIENTS ON THE

mine exhibit with a working elevator. New to this Hyde Park museum is “YOU! The Experience,”

PIAZZA OVERLOOKING MILLENNIUM PARK.

a celebration of the body, mind and spirit that explores our personal health and well-being in

houses two star-gazing theaters, a unique collection

Located on the southern edge of Lincoln Park,

of antique instruments and many hands-on

the CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM features some

exhibits. Weather permitting, the Adler’s north

22 million items documenting the city’s history,

and south terraces give an unparalleled view of

encompassing two floors of exhibits and one

Chicago’s skyline.

of research space. In its costume holdings, you

can find items ranging from a basketball jersey

Conveniently located near Michigan Ave., the

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART (MCA) focuses

1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Field Museum 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. 312.922.9410 fieldmuseum.org Daily 9 am-5 pm Adults $23, students/seniors $20, kids 3-11 $13 1.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. 312.939.2438 sheddaquarium.org Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm, Sat-Sun 9 am-6 pm Adults $24.95, kids 3-11 $17.95 1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

112

from Michael Jordan and a pocket watch used

The Art Institute of Chicago 111 S. Michigan Ave. 312.443.3600; artic.edu/aic Mon-Wed 10:30 am-5 pm, Thu 10:30 am-8 pm, Fri 10:30 am-5 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am-5 pm. Adults $18, students/seniors $12, kids under 14 free. Free Thu 5-8 pm.

Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St. 312.642.4600 chicagohistory.org Mon-Sat 9:30 am-4:30 pm, Sun 12-5 pm Adults $14, students/seniors $12, kids under 12 free.

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

1.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave. 312.280.2660; mcachicago.org Tue 10 am-8 pm, Wed-Sun 10 am-5 pm. Adults $12, students/ seniors $7, kids under 12/military free. Free all day Tue.

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. 773.684.1414; msichicago.org Mon-Sat 9:30 am-5:30 pm, Sun 11 am-5:30 pm Adults $15, seniors $14, kids 3-11 $11

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

7.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Photo Credits: Museum of Contemporary Art by Dan Baldwin , © MCA Chicago, 2009; Museum of Science and Industry by Joe Ziolkowski.

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr. 312.922.7827 adlerplanetarium.org Mon-Fri 10 am-4 pm, SatSun 10 am-4:30 pm Adults $10, kids 3-14 $6

more than 50 interactive stations.

ICONIC WINDY CITY DESTINATIONS

By Diane Molho

NAVY PIER Photo from Navy Pier

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Photo Credits: “El” by Tony Coppoletta, Chicago Transit Authority; Lincoln Park Conservatory from Chicago Park District; Lincoln Park Zoo from Lincoln Park Zoo; Wrigley Field by Steve Green.

Originally called Municipal Pier, NAVY

Windy City, Second City, City of Big

PIER has gone through major transformations

Shoulders, the City that Works—which

since it was first built in 1916. After a $150

prove to locals how truly unique their home is.

million renovation in the 90s, it has become

Here are a few places you’ll only experience in

the Midwest’s most-visited tourist attraction,

Chicago.

and for good reason—the 50 acres is packed

with promenades, gardens, shops, eateries and

As the tallest building in the U.S. with 110

stories, the WILLIS TOWER, formerly the Sears

attractions. Some of the most noteworthy are

Tower, is a must-see, especially with the 2009

a 15-story Ferris wheel, 3-D IMAX theater,

addition of the Skydeck Ledge for daring down-

miniature golf course, Chicago Children’s

town views. The Ledge consists of two glass

Museum and Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

boxes that extend 4.3 feet from the building on

Catch some of music’s biggest acts at Navy

the 103rd floor to give visitors an unobstructed

Pier’s Pepsi Skyline Stage. Also, the pier is

look at the 1,353 feet below (warning: definitely

the departure point for many of the city’s

not for those with a fear of heights).

sightseeing and dinner cruises.

If you prefer a cocktail or a lavish meal

With its lush landscaping you’d never know

while taking in breathtaking views of Chicago

that 1,200-acre Lincoln Park was a cemetery

and its surroundings, head to the Signature

until the mid-19th century. Now, with its

Room at the 95th® or Lounge at the 96th® at the

numerous bike paths and trails, it’s the place

top of the JOHN HANCOCK CENTER. Ladies, be

for outdoor activities in Chicago. Take in one of

sure to check out the restroom with its floor-to-

the country’s oldest zoos at the LINCOLN PARK

ceiling windows.

ZOO, which features an ape house, bear habitat,

Stretching south from Randolph St. to

primate house and endangered species carousel

McFetridge Dr. and west from Lake Michigan to

among other attractions. Get personal with the

Michigan Ave., GRANT PARK is a nearly 320-acre

animals at the popular Farm-in-the-Zoo. Added

playground, hosting many of the city’s big events

bonus: The zoo is free. Next door, get a peak at

like the Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza. At

rare flora at the LINCOLN PARK CONSERVATORY.

the intersection of Columbus Dr. and Congress

During the cold winter months, the iron

Pkwy., check out the Clarence Buckingham

and glass greenhouses, some with tropical

Memorial Fountain modeled after a fountain at

temperatures, are especially welcoming.

the Palace of Versailles in France. But the jewel

of the area is definitely MILLENNIUM PARK, 24.5

anymore—and some think that’s a good thing—

acres of amazing landscaping and architecture

but no matter how old-fashioned WRIGLEY FIELD

between Columbus Dr. and Michigan Ave. north

can feel, with its hand-turned scoreboard and

of Monroe Dr. that was completed in 2004. There

small size, nothing beats watching the Chicago

you’ll find Cloud Gate, affectionately called

Cubs win or lose on a warm summer day. Even if

“The Bean” by locals—a huge, shiny sculpture

you don’t get tickets, it’s worth heading there to

that reflects the skyline and is a popular photo-

catch a glimpse of the baseball-loving energy in

taking spot. There’s also Crown Fountain, two

the neighborhood.

facing glass block towers that project thousands

of faces of Chicagoans on their façades with

with their public transportation system, but

a fountain spitting from their mouths and the

the eight train lines of the “EL” or “L” (short

Frank Gehry-designed outdoor pavilion that

for “elevated tracks”) are still a great way to

accommodates 11,000 for free concerts. The

get around the city and see the sights. Recent

more athletic visitors can take a spin on the

renovations have made the El easier and

outdoor McCormick Tribune Ice Rink during

prettier—check out the whimsical mosaics at the

the winter.

red line Belmont station.

They don’t make baseball fields like this

Chicago Transit Authority (El) 312.836.7000 transitchicago.com $2.25/ride State/Lake brown, orange and red lines

CULTURE

hicago has several nicknames—the

0.2 MILE FROM HOTEL

Lincoln Park Conservatory 2391 N. Stockton Dr. 312.742.7736 chicagoparkdistrict.com Daily 9 am-5 pm except Nov. 27, Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 Free 2.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Dr. 312.742.2000; lpzoo.com Open from 10 am daily Call for closing times Free 2.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. 312.595.7437; navypier.com Open from 10 am daily Call for closing times Free; activity ticket prices vary 1 MILE FROM HOTEL

John Hancock Center 875 N. Michigan Ave. 312.787.9596 signatureroom.com Call for hours 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Willis Tower 233 S. Wacker Dr. (enter on Jackson Blvd.) 312.875.9696 theskydeck.com Call for hours Adults $14.95, kids 3-11 $10.50 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Wrigley Field 1060 W. Addison St. 773.404.2827; cubs.com Tickets $9-$350, depending on seat location 4.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

Chicagoans have a love-hate relationship

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LOLLAPALOOZA Photo by Cambria Harkey

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FAMOUS CHICAGO FESTIVALS YEAR-ROUND

By Diane Molho

any prefer Chicago in the summer,

accessories and exhibits, the CHICAGO AUTO

fireworks on July 3.

when every weekend offers an

SHOW, which normally takes place in February, is

outdoor festival. For others, spring

the nation’s largest auto exposition. Gentlemen

District, the June OLD TOWN ART FAIR features

is the best as it promises good things to come and

(and ladies), start your engines.

260 nationally acclaimed artists, which are chosen

the inevitable return of nature to the city. Fall has

by an independent jury of professional artists,

its own rewards, including brightly colored leaves

surprise that the Windy City goes all out for ST.

gallery owners and museum curators. About 50,000

and a crispness in the air. And even winter, with

PATRICK’S DAY with parades, music, festivals and

art lovers attend the two-day event to view and

its cold temperatures and snow-covered streets, is

plenty of green beer. After watching the Chicago

purchase all kinds of art, including mixed media,

full of fun and activities … albeit with the addition

Journeymen Plumbers dye the Chicago River

paintings, photographs, ceramics, jewelry, and

of hats, scarves, coats and gloves. No matter the

green early on the Saturday of or before March 17,

works in glass, metal, stone and wood.

season, Chicagoans know there is always plenty to

head over to the city’s oldest St. Pat’s parade on

do in the Windy City, such as the following annual

Columbus Dr. between Balbo Dr. and Monroe Dr.

hard to top LOLLAPALOOZA, a three-day music and

events.

lifestyle event organized by musician Perry Farrell,

gear. Early in the month, the largest free blues

featuring more than 100 bands on some eight

than complain about it—okay, maybe just a little—

festival in the world, the CHICAGO BLUES FESTIVAL,

stages. Past performances include Pearl Jam, Red

we celebrate winter at SNOW DAYS CHICAGO, a

brings three days of music on six stages to the city.

Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead, Kings of Leon and

free, three-day family-friendly festival in Grant

Past performers have included Bonnie Raitt, Ray

Jane’s Addiction. The whole city gets into the act

Park that turns January’s weather into a winter

Charles, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and the late Bo

in early August with tons of special performances

wonderland with a snow-sculpting competition,

Diddley and Koko Taylor. Later in the month, the

around town as well as after-parties to keep the

dog sled demos and plenty of kids’ activities.

TASTE OF CHICAGO, one of the best-attended events

celebration going into the wee hours.

in the city, takes over the park with more than 70

imported vehicles, including experimental and

chefs and restaurateurs serving iconic dishes. Look

GLAMORAMA, a one-night only, high-end fashion

concept cars, collectors’ antiques and auto-related

for plenty of free live entertainment as well as

show featuring the best of Macy’s fall fashions and

We admit it gets cold in Chicago. But rather

With a full range of nearly 1,000 domestic and

Due to a large Irish population, it’s no

In June, Grant Park activities shift into high

In the city’s historic Old Town Triangle

When it comes to outdoor music festivals, it’s

Later in August, Chicago gets even hotter at

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CULTURE

prices are high, money raised (more than $700,000

CHRISTKINDLMARKET CHICAGO, a German-Amer-

annually) goes to charity. The main event is at The

ican outdoor festival from the end of November

Chicago Theater, but Macy’s hosts an after-party on

through Christmas Eve at Daley Plaza. It features

its 7th floor that should not be missed, featuring

small booths with artisan goods from around the

DJs, food and bar stations, and more.

world and tasty holiday treats—think hot-spiced

wine, stollen (German holiday cake), plump

Sure, it’s loud but there’s a reason why the

It’s hard not to get into the holiday spirit at

CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW in August packs in

sausages and fresh-baked waffles—to keep the

around 2 million spectators. The two-day event on

mood going strong. Adding to the festive atmos-

the lakefront features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels

phere, the city’s Christmas tree, Santa’s House and

or U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Golden Knights

Menorah surround the Christkindlmarket.

Parachute Team, jets and other high-flying treats.

It’s music to our ears in September when the

WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL: CHICAGO returns to the

city, bringing a week of about 50 events featuring traditional and contemporary music from around the world. Look for a mix of free and ticketed

Chicago Air & Water Show North Avenue Beach 1600 N. Lake Shore Dr. 312.744.3315 chicagoairandwatershow.us Aug. 14-15; 11 am-4 pm Free 1.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

Glamorama The Chicago Theater 175 N. State St. 312.462.6300 thechicagotheatre.com Ticket prices vary (average $150) 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

Lollapalooza Grant Park 801 S. Columbus Dr. 888.512.SHOW lollapalooza.com Aug. 6-8 Ticket prices vary (average $100/day) 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Old Town Art Fair Lincoln Ave. and Wisconsin St. 312.337.1938 oldtowntriangle.com June 12-13, 10 am-6 pm Requested donation $7, kids under 12 free 2.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

concerts in museums, parks, theaters, music stores and clubs citywide.

Move over New York and Paris! In October,

we get into the style game with FASHION FOCUS CHICAGO, a celebration of the city’s thriving

fashion industry that includes runway shows,

Chicago Auto Show McCormick Place 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. 630.495.2282 chicagoautoshow.com Feb. 12-20, 10 am-10 pm (8 pm 2/21) Adults $11, kids 7-12/seniors $7, kids under 6 free

Snow Days Chicago Grant Park S. Balbo Dr. & Michigan Ave. 312.744.3315 snowdayschicago.us Jan. 29, 4-8 pm; Jan. 30-31, 11 am-8 pm Free

2.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Blues Festival Grant Park Jackson Blvd. & Columbus Dr. 312.744.3315 chicagobluesfestival.us June 11-13 Free

SOFA Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. 800.563.7632 sofaexpo.com Times and ticket prices vary

industry seminars, demonstrations and special exhibits. Chicago’s chic boutiques get in on the action too, with special trunk shows and in-store appearances by up-and-coming local designers. Also, some downtown hotels offer special shopping packages and exclusive Fashion Focus

0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

amenities.

With 45 years under its belt, it’s no wonder

the CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL is one of the most respected in the world. The October event not only brings more than 140 premiere

Chicago International Film Festival Various locations 312.683.0121 chicagofilmfestival.org Oct. 7-20 Times and ticket prices vary

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Columbus Dr. & Balbo Dr.; continues north to Monroe Dr. chicagostpatsparade.com March 13, 12 pm 0.6 MILE (FINISH) TO 1.1 MILES (START) FROM HOTEL

screenings to the Windy City, including feature films, documentaries and shorts from around the world, but the stars come out, too, with past appearances by the likes of Stephen Spielberg and Uma Thurman.

In November, Navy Pier becomes an art lover’s

paradise when the SCULPTURE OBJECTS &

Christkindlmarket Chicago Daley Plaza 50 W. Washington St. 312.644.2175 christkindlmarket.com Nov. 25-Dec. 24 Free 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL

Taste of Chicago Grant Park 100 E. Congress Pkwy. 312.744.3315 tasteofchicago.us June 25-July 4, 11 am-9 pm Free admission; food and beverage prices vary 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

FUNCTIONAL ART FAIR or SOFA brings in master-

pieces from 70 or so top international galleries and dealers from several countries for a three-day festival. Demos, lectures and special exhibits make this a must-attend event.

118

Fashion Focus Chicago Various locations Chicagofashionresource.com Times and ticket prices vary

World Music Festival: Chicago Various venues 312.742.1938 worldmusicfestivalchicago.org Times and ticket prices vary

Photo Credits: Chicago Air & Water Show, Chicago Blues Festival, Cristkindlmarket, Fashion Focus, Snow Days and Taste of Chicago from City of Chicago; Lollapalooza by Matthew Taplinger; SOFA by Laura Koch from Navy Pier; St. Patrick’s Day by Dean Battaglia; Old Town Art Fair by Bob Dowey.

a big name in music like Beyoncé. While ticket

top 100

wines of the year for 2007

2007 wine spectator award based on la marca doc prosecco di coneglianovaldobbiadene extra dry nv

MACY’S ON STATE STREET Photo from Macy’s

120

stocked with cuff links, ties and sophisticated-

from Agent Provocateur, grab an

casual sweaters, denim and button-downs—is

ensemble at Prada and splurge on

located across the street at 717 N. Michigan

shoes at Jimmy Choo, but you know what they

Ave., 312.944.6500.

say about the best-laid plans. Despite your

best efforts, you simply ran out of time.

BLOOMINGDALE’S is a six-floor paradise

Good news for you: Chicago is filled with

brimming with skin care solutions, bling and

department stores, where you can find

designer handbags as well as booty-conscious

everything you need without having to

pants, strapless dresses from Alice + Olivia

compromise your sense of style. Make these

and sleek Bruno Magli oxfords for guys.

your go-to locales when time is of the essence.

There’s a great kids’ department, too. And

Of course, they’re also worth a visit just

while items for the home, such as espresso

because.

machines and Le Creuset Dutch ovens, can be

found here, an expanded home and furniture

Firmly rooted in the Oak St. shopping

Located in The 900 Shops mall,

scene, the Chicago offshoot of BARNEYS

collection exists at the landmark Medinah

NEW YORK—now across the street from its

Temple home store at 600 N. Wabash Ave.,

original address—is every bit as trendy as its

312.324.7500.

predecessor. The six-floor, Indiana limestone-

fronted store is funky-cool, adorned with

MACY’S resides in the historic Marshall Field

glass dividers, industrial racks, retro wood

& Company building. Melding offerings for

details and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow

the home—from plush bedding, KitchenAid

light to flood in. From personal shopping

mixers and sectionals—with fashions for

to designer men’s fashions and hot heels by

women, men, juniors and kids, it’s relatively

Christian Louboutin, fashion-forward options

affordable and always timely. Regular sales

abound.

bring prices even further down to earth.

SHOPPING TIME (AND SPENDING)

By Jennifer Olvera

Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave, 312.335.7700.

No shopping excursion is complete

Photo Credits: Barneys by Adrian Wilson. Macy’s from Macy’s.

Get-ups from top designers grace the

savvy department store in The Shops at North

its endless shoe department, there’s plenty

racks at NEIMAN MARCUS, an iconic—if

to love about its modern and casual Friday

sedate—department store stocked with

fashions, suits—from track to tux—and gala-

resort-ready looks from Rachel Roy; skinny,

worthy gowns. Offering clothing and gifts at

distressed denim from William Rast; and

all price points, the store is a boon for bargain

Prada slingbacks. Cozy-chic pajamas mingle

seekers as well as a top destination for those

with Gucci loafers and kids’ reversible Andrew

seeking lines like Dolce & Gabbana. Looking

Marc vests, too. Will you have to splurge? Yes,

to relax after a long day of rifling through

but you’ll be rewarded.

racks? Make an appointment at the spa.

Neiman Marcus 737 N. Michigan Ave. 312.642.5900 neimanmarcus.com Mon-Wed, Sat 10 am-7 pm; Thu-Fri 10 am-5 pm; Sun 12-6 pm 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Saks Fifth Avenue 700 N. Michigan Ave. 312.944.6500 saksfifthavenue.com Mon-Wed 10 am-7 pm, Thu-Sat 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

Bloomingdale’s 900 N. Michigan Ave. 312.440.4460 bloomingdales.com Mon-Sat 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Macy’s 111 N. State St. 312.781.1000 visitmacyschicago.com Mon-Sat 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

without a visit to NORDSTROM, a designer-

Bridge. Although many come just to peruse

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Anchoring always-bustling State St.,

Macy’s is the anchor store in Water Tower DEPARTMENT STORES MAXIMIZE

Barneys New York 15 E. Oak St. 312.587.1700 barneys.com Mon-Sat 10 am-7 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm

SHOPPING

ou planned to pick out underclothes

Nordstrom 520 N. Michigan Ave. 312.379.4300 nordstrom.com Mon-Sat 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

Among the Mag Mile’s go-to destinations

for designer sportswear and gifts, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE also boasts an impressive beauty

department. Whether you’re in search of looks from Giorgio Armani or Chloe, a refined Burberry coat or ruffled Elie Tahari tunic, you’ll find your match here. The men’s store—

121

THE 900 SHOPS

124

Photo from 900 N. Michigan, LLC

and the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. From maternity

are offered to assist shoppers with dining and

with boutiques, high-end clothiers

stores like A Pea in a Pod to shopaholic faves

entertainment needs and there’s a free coat and

and coveted chains. Generally

like Lacoste, Movado, C.O. Bigelow, Forever 21,

package check service offered at Nordstrom. Two

speaking, that’s a good thing. However, there’s

French Connection and Betsey Johnson, Water

parking garages—one bordered by Grand Ave.,

something to be said for one-stop shopping,

Tower Place has something for everyone. Dining

Ohio St. and Wabash Ave., the other at Grand

especially when you’re crunched for time.

options abound, too, including fast-casual

Ave. and Rush St.—are available.

That’s where malls, the workhorses of the

eateries like Freshii as well as Lettuce Entertain

shopping world, come into play. Here are a

You’s Foodlife® and Wow Bao, where steamed

crossed—BLOCK 37, bordered by State,

few that shouldn’t be missed.

filled baos (buns) make good snacks. There’s a

Randolph, Dearborn and Washington Streets,

parking garage that’s accessible on Chestnut

encompasses an entire city block in the

leanings. Sleek, conservative looks from Mark

St.; diners and shoppers who arrive early or

heart of Chicago’s downtown Loop and will

Shale mingle with Original Penguin (located

after 5 pm are privy to discounts with minimum

feature an eclectic mix of shopping, dining

on Rush St.) sportswear for men, women and

purchase and validation.

and entertainment within a five-story atrium.

Tenants of THE 900 SHOPS have luxury

SHOPPING

hicago’s Magnificent Mile is loaded

When it’s finally finished—fingers

children. Michael Kors, MaxMara and Oilily are in the house, too, as are Diesel and St. Croix.

DISCOVER WHY NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE IS MAGNIFICENT

By Jennifer Olvera

Photo Credits: The 900 Shops from 900 North Michigan, LLC; Water Tower Place from Water Tower Place.; The Shops at North Bridge from The Shops at North Bridge.

Kids aren’t left in the cold, thanks to Galt Toys + Galt Baby. Imelda Marcos types-in-training

Anchored by Nordstrom, a department

Direct access to the Chicago Pedway as well

find their match at Alternatives Shoes and

store with a fabled shoe department, THE SHOPS

as the CTA red and blue lines makes access

Charles David. Restaurants run the gamut from

AT NORTH BRIDGE are largely nestled in an Art

even easier. Despite development setbacks

red-sauced Italian at Frankie’s Scaloppine to

Deco structure, though the shopping scene

with this ambitious complex, some stores have

Oak Tree Restaurant & Bakery, which has been

includes a nine-block retail and entertainment

already opened, including Zara, Anthropologie,

serving hearty breakfasts to Gold Coasters for

district of the same name. The stores are an

L’Occitane en Provence and PUMA, with Bigsby

decades. Beyond that, Equinox Fitness Club,

eclectic mix, ranging from beauty boutiques to

& Kruthers, Sephora and Akira Chicago coming

which has a full-service spa, is on the lower

clothing and jewelry stores. Not to be missed is

soon. Take a break from shopping at Au Bon

level. Discounted parking is available with a

Chicago-based Vosges Haut-Chocolat, which is

Pain, Beard Papa’s (custard-filled creampuffs)

$10 purchase and validation; enter on Rush St.

known for exotic treats like Hungarian paprika

and Godiva Chocolates and look for more

northbound or on Walton St. westbound.

and dark chocolate truffles and bacon candy

restaurants on the way.

bars. Kids, on the other hand, can keep busy at

Home to more than 100 specialty stores and

boutiques as well as the Drury Lane Theatre,

The LEGO® Store. Perched above is the Conrad

the eight-floor WATER TOWER PLACE is part of

Chicago hotel, which shows movies on its

the 74-story building with residences, offices

terrace during warm months. Concierge services

The 900 Shops 900 N. Michigan Ave. 312.915.3916 shop900.com Mon-Sat 10 am-7 pm, Sun 12-6 pm

Water Tower Place 835 N. Michigan Ave. 312.440.3166 shopwatertower.com Mon-Sat 10 am-9 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm

The Shops at North Bridge 520 N. Michigan Ave. 312.327.2300 theshopsatnorthbridge.com Mon-Sat 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

Block 37 108 N. State St. 312.220.0037 block37.com Mon-Sat 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL

125

CLOTHING FOR MEN AND WOMEN PLUS GIFTS

By Jennifer Olvera

THE DOUBLE GREER DOOR

126

Photo by Sharon Hoogstraten Photography

Photo Credits: Ikram by Josh Goldman; Universal Gear by William Gordon; Greer by Sharon Hoogstraten Photography.

swimwear collection, modern and retro-inspired

women in search of, well, apparel and denim.

you’ll run into an endless array

footwear, boxer briefs with contrast stitching

Exuding a rock and roll aesthetic, the Old

of unique, fashion-forward stores.

and Adidas watches cover the remaining bases.

Town store stocks denim lines like Citizens of

Catering to all persuasions and generations,

Lest you forgot your skin care products on the

Humanity, William Rast and Genetic and hits

there’s no shortage of destinations worth

road, there’s plenty of that here, too.

a range of price points. Peruse through the

seeking.

old records before zeroing in on T-shirts from

companion, M4MEN, where Calvin Klein

designers like Ella Moss and Junk Food. Leather

parents) appreciate MILANI BOUTIQUE, an Oak

clothing caters to men with an eye for style

jackets, vintage frocks and evening-out tops

St. must for haute-fashion frocks. Boys’ three-

and only so many bucks to burn. A selection of

offer one-stop shopping.

button suits from Hart Schaffner Marx and

Seven jeans and vintage Big Ten T-shirts—not

Armani Junior hint at what’s in store. But it

to mention a TV that’s perpetually tuned to

women’s boutiques, IKRAM is known for its

hardly ends there. You might unearth a viscose-

sports—makes it immediately evident who this

luxury lines and high-drama, special occasion

blend Dolce & Gabbana dress for tweens, jeans

shopping experience is for.

pieces. Strappy stilettos, flouncy jackets and

from Laguna Beach Jean Co. and Versace Young

single-strap dresses are paired with elegant

stretch cotton tops. A handful of items likeYves

subterranean concept featuring the same

bling. Robert Clergerie footwear leads to

Saint Laurent sunglasses and a silk Milani tie

clothing lines of its predecessor, Only She. But

splurges; Rochas gowns are statement-making

keep grown-ups content.

now, the space also features art on exhibition,

to say the least.

home accessories and gifts from local and

neighborhood, menswear store UNIVERSAL

national designers. Clothing-wise, lines range

GREER brims with note cards and writing

GEAR hits all the right notes in a setting that’s

from Cynthia Ashby to Katherine Barclay

paper that’s imported or designed by owner

sophisticated without being off-putting. Flat-

and Sonja Marohn. Trunk shows, personal

Chandra Greer, showcasing the best of a dying

front pants and crisp woven shirts in a rainbow

shopping, private appointments, consultations and

art—writing letters. Boxed thank you cards,

of colors speak to business casual types, while

alterations are part of the store’s service-oriented

bookplates and journals are on hand, too, as

comfy-cool argyle or striped Ben Sherman

approach.

are Moleskin address books, calendars and

sweaters, G-Star zip-ups and Save Khaki board

desk accessories. You’ll even find playing cards,

shorts become weekend warriors. A large

become a go-to destination among men and

Cool kids (and their clothes-conscious

Located in the city’s Lakeview

M2 Boutique now has a neighboring

URBAN STYLE EMPORIUM is a unique

CITYBLUE APPAREL & DENIM has quickly

SHOPPING

ead a little north of downtown and

Widely considered one of the city’s top

Need a gift? Old Town stationary store

engraved resin bracelets and umbrellas.

Cityblue Apparel & Denim 1444 N. Wells St. 312.664.2222 citybluedenim.com Mon-Thu 11 am-6 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm

Greer 1657 N. Wells St. 312.337.8000 greerchicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-6:30 pm, Sat 11 am-6 pm

1.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

2.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

M4Men 3525 N. Southport Ave. 773.698.6407 mboutiquechicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm

Milani Boutique 65 E. Oak St. 312.587.0570 milaniboutique.com Mon-Sat 11 am-6 pm

Universal Gear 3153 N. Broadway St. 773.296.1090 universalgear.com Mon-Thu 10 am-9 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am-10 pm, Sun 11 am-8 pm

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Ikram 873 N. Rush St. 312.587.1000 ikram.com Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

5 MILES FROM HOTEL

Urban Style Emporium 200 E. Delaware Pl. Lower Level 312.335.1353 urbanstyleemporium.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 11 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 1 MILE FROM HOTEL

127

FROM MODEST FRILLS TO CELEBRITY THREADS, VINTAGE ACCESSORIES AND MORE

By Jennifer Olvera

PRIMITIVE

128

which is a favorite with stars like Jada Pinkett

boutiques promising to bring out the

Smith.

fashion maven in you. From everyday

Two sisters are behind FIX, a loft-like Fulton

garb to special occasion get-ups, these boutiques

Market storefront loaded with drool-worthy

will help you put your best foot forward.

finds for men and women. Not over-the-top

but certainly fashion-minded, the collection

Chicagoan MARIA PINTO has officially

achieved cult status. One look at her collection,

combines urban style with common sense

not to mention her client list—including Oprah

designs. Both familiar labels like Splendid and

Winfrey and Michelle Obama—and it’s easy

lesser-known lines such as Aether and Corpus

to see why. Now, the West Loop shop houses

can be found. And while that yellow Loeffler

her designs that once only could be found

Randall coat may alone be enough to hook you,

elsewhere. Timeless elegance and miles of style

it’s the customer service that’ll have you coming

benchmark her collections in the form of curve-

back. Flexible hours and private appointments

hugging leather dresses, pampa wool pantsuits

add to the experience.

and brightly hued gowns that share space with

jacquard dresses and fluttery, sexy skirts. The

with likeable looks from Karina Grimaldi,

well-edited, ready-to-wear pieces, while costly,

Susana Monaco and Yumi Kim. Cowlneck

are made to last.

shirts, belted dresses and stylish, boldly colored

tunics team with Shiraleah handbags and Orion

Located in the gritty-chic meatpacking

Hip but sophisticated, TRIBECA is loaded

district, KOROS is a gallery-inspired boutique

London frocks. Both well-known and local

where shopping—champagne in hand—is a

designers are favored—as long as they fit well.

Photo Credit: Primitive by Tyler Mallory.

2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Fix 1101 W. Fulton Market 312.226.4565 shopfixchicago.com Mon-Tue 12-6 pm, Wed-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 11 am-6 pm 1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Heidi Hess Designs 210 N. Halsted St. 312.738.1112 heidihess.com By appointment only 1.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

Koros 1039 W. Lake St. 312.738.0155 shopkoros.com Sun-Tue 12-6 pm, Wed-Sat 11 am-7 pm 1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

luxurious, leisurely affair. Emphasizing both basics and glamorous pieces and accessories

FURNITURE &ACCESSORIES

from the likes of Ifeanyi Chuku, Love Heals

and Camilla Skovgaard, Koros is anchored by a

accessories grace spacious, museum-like

gracious chandelier and outfitted with antique

PRIMITIVE, a store where conversation pieces

accoutrements. Style and closet consultations

range from a bed from West Africa’s Ivory

and concierge services are offered.

Coast to intricately patterned Moroccan rugs

You’ll be smitten by the collection at

and bamboo rice baskets from China. Clutches

2 SISTERS BOUTIQUE, a West Loop shop with

fashioned from vintage silk obis (kimono belts)

a sibling in suburban Park Ridge. Known for

and Mongolian black cashmere caps make great

stocking affordable but über-trendy pieces—

gifts. The store’s own furniture collection caters

think black brocade dresses, military-inspired

to modern sensibilities in the form of geometric

vests and origami-esque, pleated tops—nothing

chairs and wooden tables befitting of a royal

costs above $100. And because new arrivals hit

feast.

racks regularly, it’s never the same place, well,

twice.

residential custom furniture is the draw at

MORLEN SINOWAY ATELIER, a design-savvy

HEIDI HESS DESIGNS is a go-to destination

2 Sisters Boutique 1167 W. Madison St. 312.226.6677 shop2sisters.com Tue-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-4 pm

SHOPPING

ust west of downtown, there are

Worldly, one-of-a-kind furniture and

Limited production, commercial and

for custom fashions and a boon for women of

showroom loaded with haute antique and

all shapes and sizes. Gold metallic, shawl-collar

vintage furniture. Pieces from up-and-coming

sweaters and bell-sleeved cardigans are just the

artists, jewelry designers and satin nickel

tip of the iceberg at this haute spot from the

sconces from the world over lend an artsy feel.

owner, a radio broadcaster-turned-designer.

More affordable finds—handmade wind-up toys

Master knitters are to thank for the lovely fabrics

or lidded earthenware bowls from Vincent Van

found at this by-appointment design studio,

Duysen—still manage to feel special.

Maria Pinto 135 N. Jefferson St. 312.648.1350 mariapinto.com Mon-Fri 10 am-6 pm, Sat 10 am-3 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Morlen Sinoway Atelier 1052 W. Fulton Market 312.432.0100 morlensinoway.com Mon-Fri 9:30 am-5 pm, Sat 11:30 am-5 pm 1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Primitive 130 N. Jefferson St. 312.575.9600 beprimitive.com Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-4 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Tribeca 1035 W. Madison St. 312.492.9373 shopattribeca.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 1.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

129

ARTSY, EDGY COUTURE FOR BOTH GENDERS

By Jennifer Olvera

P.45

130

Photo by Jasmin Shah

Mason and matte gold vermeil and sterling

Wicker Park neighborhoods are

silver jewelry by Kezha Hatier. Ongoing events

home to a gentrified mix of young

allow shoppers to get to know designers (and

homeowners and artsy hipsters. Its shopping

save cash), so call ahead to ask about trunk

scene reflects its residents’ varied but of-the-

shows. Private shopping and messenger

moment tastes, so you’ll find everything from

services are offered, too.

intimate boutiques loaded with cutting-edge

fashions to affordable, super-stylish shops for

gifts, STITCH is the place to go. A bevy of

men, women and children.

contemporary items—funky serving trays,

horned animal shot glasses, iconic glassware

Fans of Forever 21 take note: There’s

When you’re in the market for unique

another sheriff in town. AKIRA, which has

and modern Jonathan Adler needlepoint

numerous Chicagoland locations, is a trendy

pillows—make great gifts, but you’ll no doubt

boutique for both genders that seamlessly

want to keep the Paul Smith laptop bag and

blends low- and higher-priced clothing, shoes

sexy sunglasses for yourself. The store offers a

and accessories. Whether you’re in the market

gift registry, making it a popular pre-wedding

for a $35 tube dress or a pair of Report

destination.

open-toed booties, you’ll find it here. Guys

feel the love, too, with button-downs from 7

trove. Lighted by filament bulbs, it has an

Diamonds, Rock & Republic jeans and stylish

edited collection of designer fashion for

PUMA shoes. A footwear offshoot is located

men and women. The inclusion of designer

down the road at 1849 W. North Ave.

biographies—like Erica Davies, Lyell, Pas

de Calais and Steven Alan—keeps shoppers

Urban clothing is the name of the game at

informed. The store regularly hosts fashion

graphic T-shirts are augmented by a too-cool

events at area lounges like The Underground.

collection of hoodies, messenger bags and

Because the store stocks only a limited

chunky cable-knit hats for men and women,

quantity of its pieces, there’s an air of

all of which ooze effortless chic. Military

exclusivity, but without pretension.

sweaters, make-up cases as well as onesies and

sweatshirts for babies and kids continue the

Runway Canada alum Shernett Swaby, SWABY

theme. Blazers and dresses deviate slightly to

features the owner’s sewn wonders, including

allow for more upscale offerings.

menswear-inspired vests, ruffled tops and

fun skirts. Her couture line offers party

Opened by Toronto designer and Project

UNTITLED is a go-to place for casual, urban

dresses and high-fashion ensembles to boot.

clothing. A large denim collection includes

Handmade ruffled or fringed handbags are a

lines like Chip & Pepper, Earnest Sewn and

chic, slightly edgy way to complete looks.

Diesel for guys and Joe’s Jeans, True Religion

and Rich & Skinny for gals. Vintage-inspired

experience, lifestyle-fashion boutique

details run rampant, as do funky graphic

BONNIE & CLYDE’S is an artsy, book-stocked

T-shirts, but there’s stuff here to build work

space. Modern, avant-garde clothing for

wardrobes, too.

men and women is what you’ll find here,

be it a fitted, little black dress by Morphine

Women in search of designer duds know

3.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Bonnie & Clyde’s 1751 W. Division St. 773.235.2680 shopbonnieandclydes.com Mon-Thu 12-7 pm, Fri 12-9 pm, Sat 11 am-9 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm 3 MILES FROM HOTEL

Brooklyn Industries 1426 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.360.8182 brooklynindustries.com Mon-Sat 11 am-8 pm, Sun 12-7 pm 3.2 MILE FROM HOTEL

ROSLYN is a narrow, minimalist treasure

BROOKLYN INDUSTRIES, where limited edition,

Spacious with an industrial edge,

Akira Women’s: 1814 W. North Ave. 773.489.0818 Men’s: 1910 W. North Ave. 312.423.6693 akirachicago.com Mon-Sat 11 am-9 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm

SHOPPING

hicago’s adjacent Bucktown and

Aiming to make shopping a pleasurable

to head to P.45, a long-standing hotspot for

Generation, Christian Siriano charmeuse

modern, independent and recognized labels,

blouse or deconstructed Ideeën sweater. Mind

some of which are local. 3.1 Phillip Lim

you, men don’t get the short end of the stick:

cashmere sweaters mingle with jackets by

Bess boots are in the house.

p.45 1643 N. Damen Ave. 773.862.4523 p45.com Mon-Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 12-5 pm; call for holiday hours. 3.5 MILES FROM HOTEL

Roslyn 2035 N. Damen Ave. 773.489.1311 roslynboutique.com Tue-Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Stitch 1723 N. Damen Ave. 773.782.1570 stitchchicago.com Mon-Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 3.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Swaby 1933 N. Damen Ave. 312.533.1745 shernettswaby.com Appointment hours Mon-Sat 7 am-7 pm 3.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Untitled 1941 W. North Ave. 773.342.0500 untitledshop.com Mon-Sat 11 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 3.5 MILES FROM HOTEL

Jeffrey Monteiro, silk dresses from Michelle

131

TEXT MESSAGE MARKETING

95% of all text messages are read 88% of the U.S. population have mobile phones

chicago books & movies Read A Raisin in the Sun Lorraine Hansberry, paperback, $7 ©Vintage, 2004 Set post-World War II on the south side of Chicago, then-29-year-old Hansberry’s story of a poor African-American family has been called “a play that changed America forever.” When Corruption was King: How I Helped the Mob Rule Chicago, Then Brought the Outfit Down Robert Cooley with Hillel Levin, paperback, $15.95 ©Avalon Publishing Group, 2006 This first-person account of a federal government investigation of the Chicago mafia told by its attorney-turned-nark (who’s now in the witness protection program with a different identity) is not to be missed. The Time Traveler’s Wife Audrey Niffenegger, paperback, $14.95 ©Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2004 The author, a Chicago resident and graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Northwestern University, spins a love story about a librarian in the city’s Newberry Library who is cursed with inadvertent time travel.

The Devil in the White City:

Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America Erik Larson, paperback, $14.95 ©Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, 2004

Part historical non-fiction, part murder mystery, this national bestseller is one of the most comprehensive looks at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago through the eyes of architect Daniel H. Burnham, his world-famous team and acquaintances like Susan B. Anthony and Buffalo Bill.

The Plan of Chicago: Daniel Burnham and the Remaking of the American City Carl Smith, paperback, $12 ©University of Chicago Press, 2007 Daniel H. Burnham and Edward Bennett’s “Plan of Chicago” is often called the most important work in urban planning and Smith’s narrative explores the plan’s impact to date as well as its continued influence on modern Chicago.

Chicago: A Biography Dominic A. Pacyga, hardcover, $35 ©University of Chicago Press, 2009 A historian born and raised in Chicago introduces readers to the unique citizens and culture of Chicago with an insider’s perspective. The Encyclopedia of Chicago Edited by James R. Grossman, Ann Durkin Keating and Janice L. Reiff, hardcover, $65 ©The Newberry Library, 2004 If none of the other titles on our list have the answer you’re looking for, this reference book from The Newberry Library and Chicago Historical Society contains everything you’ll ever want or need to know about the city’s history.

Watch The Dark Knight (2008) Chicago plays Gotham in this action-packed movie starring Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Michael Caine and Maggie Gyllenhaal. Look for scenes with the old Chicago Post Office as Gotham City Bank and the Brachs Candy Factory as Gotham City Hospital. The Untouchables (1987) This dramatized version of Al Capone’s reign as the 1920s Chicago mob king combines gunfire, action and thrill in what is considered one of the most celebrated mobster movies of our time. The Blues Brothers (1980) Follow two brothers (John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd) on their “mission from god” to save their childhood home where they were raised by nuns in this Chicago classic. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986) In one of John Hughes’ most renowned films, leisure truly rules. Watch Ferris and his friends as they take on the city from Wrigley Field to The Art Institute of Chicago in this iconic coming-of-age tale. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) Nothing quite says the holiday season has arrived like Sparky and the rest of the Griswold family. Though the movie was mostly filmed in the suburbs, this star-studded cast with Chevy Chase will guarantee many laughs. The Break-Up (2006) Along with Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston, Chicago acts as the third star in this romantic comedy. It paints a beautiful picture of several neighborhoods like Lakeview and Lincoln Park as well as the Chicago River. Adventures in Babysitting (1987) Elisabeth Shue stars in this classic film, which follows suburban kids and their babysitter into the city for a night of adventures they will never forget. About Last Night (1986) This local favorite stars Rob Lowe, Demi Moore and James Belushi as 20-something singles living on the North side of Chicago. From the bars at which they socialize (Mother’s in the Gold Coast and Kelly’s in Lincoln Park) to playing softball in a lakeside park, this romantic comedy showcases the best of what the city and the 80s have to offer. Chicago (2002) This Bob Fosse classic is set in 1920s Chicago with murderers Roxie Hart (Renée Zellweger) and Velma Kelly (Catherine Zeta-Jones) striving to reach stardom and get out of the Cook County Jail.

The House on Mango Street Sandra Cisneros, paperback, $11 ©Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, 1984 This coming-of-age story about girl growing up in the Latino neighborhood of Chicago has received international acclaim. The Jungle Upton Sinclair, paperback (Barnes & Noble Classics Series), $4.95 ©Barnes & Noble, 2003 One of the most noted examples of turn-of-the-century muckraking, this classic novel follows an immigrant working in Chicago’s meatpacking district (then called Packingtown) and fighting capitalism in search of the American dream. The Second City Unscripted Mike Thomas, hardcover, $26 ©Random House Publishing Group, 2009 The who’s who of Second City Chicago’s celeb alumni – Stephen Colbert, Dan Aykroyd and Amy Sedaris among them – provide a history of comedy on and off the stage.

134

Public Enemies 2009 Follow 1930s Chicago mobsters John Dillinger (Johnny Depp), Pretty Boy Floyd (Channing Tatum) and Baby Face Nelson (Stephen Graham) as J. Edgar Hoover (Billy Crudup) announces the first ever national “war on crime.” Historic Chicago buildings like the Aragon Ballroom as well as scenes in the Lakeview neighborhood (Sheridan and Surf) are featured.

Mention â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lavishâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to recieve a free conditioning treatment with any cut.

rated

the best

STEAK Anywhere!

AWARD-WiNNiNg WiNE LiST. PRivATE DiNiNg AvAiLAbLE. SPECiALLy PRiCED bAR biTES.

Dining: Old Favorites

Dining: Newer Greats

Arun’s 4156 N. Kedzie Ave. 773.539.1909; arunsthai.com Tue-Thu, Sun, 5-10 pm; Fri-Sat, 5-10:30 pm 7.3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

Alinea 1723 N. Halsted St. 312.867.0110; alinea-restaurant.com Wed-Sun 5-9:30 pm 2.7 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

Blackbird 619 W. Randolph St. 312.715.0708; blackbirdrestaurant.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Mon-Thu 5-10:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11:30 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$

David Burke’s Primehouse The James Hotel 616 N. Rush St. 312.660.6000; davidburkesprimehouse.com Mon-Sat 7 am-3 pm, Sun 7 am-2 pm; Mon-Thu 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 pm, Sun 5:30-10 pm 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$$

Brasserie Jo 59 W. Hubbard St. 312.595.0800; brasseriejo.com Mon-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 4:30-9 pm 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Graham Elliot 217 W. Huron St. 312.624.9975; grahamelliot.com Mon-Sat 5-10:30 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Charlie Trotter’s 816 W. Armitage Ave. 773.248.6228; charlietrotters.com Tue-Thu 6 & 9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30 & 9 pm 3.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

L2O 2300 N. Lincoln Park West 773.868.0002; l2orestaurant.com Sun-Mon 6-10 pm, Wed-Thu 6-10 pm, Fri 6-11 pm, Sat 5-11 pm 2.9 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$

China Grill Hard Rock Hotel 230 N. Michigan Ave. 312.334.6700; chinagrillmgt.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-5 pm; Mon-Thu 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 5-9 pm LOCATED IN HOTEL $$$

Mercat a la Planxa 638 S. Michigan Ave. 312.765.0524; mercatchicago.com Mon-Thu 6:30 am-11 pm, Fri-Sat 6:30 am-12 am, Sun 6:30 am-10 pm 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

Frontera Grill/Topolobampo 445 N. Clark St. 312.661.1434; fronterakitchens.com Frontera, Tue-Fri 11:30 am-2:30 pm, Sat 10:30 am-2:30 pm; Tues 5:20-10 pm, Wed-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm Topolobampo, Tue 11:45 am-2 pm, Wed-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Tue-Thu 5:30-9:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$/$$$ Naha 500 N. Clark St. 312.321.6242; naha-chicago.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2 pm; Mon-Thurs 5:30-9:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$

65 E. Wacker Place Chicago - Downtown 312-201-0410

Visit our other Chicagoland locations: “The Original” - State Street Naperville Northbrook Rosemont Schaumburg mortons.com

Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

North Pond 2610 N. Cannon Dr. 773.477.5845; northpondrestaurant.com Sun 10 am-1:30 pm; Wed-Fri 11:30 am-1:30 pm (summer only); Tue-Sun from 5:30 pm. Closed Tue Jan-April. 3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$ Spiaggia 980 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd fl. 312.280.2750; spiaggiarestaurant.com Sun-Thu 6-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10 pm 1 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$ TRU 676 N. St. Clair St. 312.202.0001; trurestaurant.com Mon-Thu 6-10 pm, Fri 5:30-11 pm, Sat 5-11 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$$$

Moto 945 W. Fulton Market 312.491.0058; motorestaurant.com Tue-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm 1.5 MILES FROM HOTEL $$$$ Osteria via Stato 620 N. State St. 312.642.8450; osteriaviastato.com Mon-Thu 5-10 pm, Fri-Sat 5-11 pm, Sun 5-9:30 pm 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$ Perennial 1800 N. Lincoln Ave. 312.981.7070; perennialchicago.com Mon-Thu 5-9 pm, Fri-Sat 5-10 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am-2 pm 2.3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$ Sunda 110 W. Illinois St. 312.644.0500; sundachicago.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-3 pm; Sun-Wed 5 pm-11 pm, Thu-Sat 5 pm-12 am 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $$ Table Fifty-Two 52 W. Elm St. 312.573.4000; tablefifty-two.com Mon-Sat 5-10 pm, Sun 4-9 pm 1.3 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

Key: $ meals $20 and under, $$ meals $21-$35, $$$ meals $35-$50, $$$$ meals $50 and up.

rated

Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Nightclubs

Nightlife Concierges

Crescendo 222 W. Ontario St. 312.376.3111; clubcrescendo.com Wed-Thu 11 pm-4 am, Fri 10 pm-4 am, Sat 10 pm-5 am

To guarantee yourself a great night while you’re visiting Chicago, you can contact any of the following concierge services via 312.550.8666.

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Twenty Something chicagotwentysomething.com

Crobar 1543 N. Kingsbury St. 312.266.1900; crobar.com Wed and Fri 10 pm-4 am, Sat 10 pm-5 am 2.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Cuvée 308 W. Erie St. 312.202.9221; cuveechicago.com Wed 10 pm-2 am, Fri 11 pm-4 am, Sat 11 pm-5 am 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Enclave 220 W. Chicago Ave. 312.654.0234; enclavechicago.com Thu 10 pm-2 am, Fri 9 pm-2 am, Sat 9 pm-3 am 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Le Passage 937 Rush St. 312.255.0022; lepassage.com Thu-Fri 10 pm-4 am, Sat 10 pm-5 am

Another Level anotherlevel.com

Exact Events exactevents.com Funky Couture funkycouture.net Genuine Entertainment genuinechicago.com Global Adrenaline globaladrenaline.net Illustrious illustriousculture.com Surreal surrealchicago.com Tony Macey tonymacey.com Vice vice-events.com

Late-Night Bites

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

Bijan’s Bistro 633 N. State St. 312.202.1904; bijansbistro.com Daily 11 am-3 am 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL $

Lumen 839 W. Fulton Market St. 312.733.2222; lumen-chicago.com Tue 10 pm-2 am, Fri 9 pm-2 am, Sat 9 pm-3 am

Blue 13 416 W. Ontario St. 312.787.1400; blue13chicago.com Tue-Wed 5 pm-12 am, Thu-Sat 5 pm-2 am, Sun 5-10 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL $$

1.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Manor 642 N. Clark St. 312.475.1390; manorchicago.com Tue, Thu and Fri 10 pm-2 am; Sat 10 pm-3 am 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

Sound-Bar 226 W. Ontario St. 312.787.4480; sound-bar.com Thu-Fri 10 pm-4 am, Sat 10 pm-5 am 1 MILE FROM HOTEL

Spybar 646 W. Franklin St. 312.337.2191; spybarchicago.com Sun-Mon, Wed-Thu 10 pm-5 am; Fri-Sat 10 pm-5 am 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Underground 56 W. Illinois St. 312.644.7600; theundergroundchicago.com Thu-Fri 9 pm-4 am, Sat 9 pm-5 am, Sun 10 pm-4 am 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

China Grill Hard Rock Hotel Chicago Ext. 59; chinagrillmgt.com In-room dining available 24 hours LOCATED IN HOTEL $$$ The Purple Pig 500 N. Michigan Ave. 312.735.6300; thepurplepigchicago.com Sun-Thu 11:30 am-12 am, Fri-Sat 11:30 am-2 am 0.3 MILE FROM HOTELL $ Rock Bottom Brewery 1 W. Grand Ave. 312.755.9339; rockbottom.com/chicago Daily 11 am-1 am 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL $ Rockit Bar & Grill 22 W. Hubbard St. 312.645.6000; rockitbarandgrill.com Mon-Fri 11:30 am-1:30 am, Sat 10 am-2:30 am, Sun 10 am-1:30 am 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL $ SUSHISAMBA® Rio 504 N. Wells St. 312.595.2300; sushisamba.com Sun-Mon 11:45 am-11 pm, Tue 11:45 am-12 am, Wed-Fri 11:45 am-1 am, Sat 11:45 am-2 am 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL $$

rated

Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Hotel Lounges

Lounges

The Bar The Peninsula Chicago 108 E. Superior St. 312.573.6695; peninsula.com Sun-Thu 5 pm-1 am, Fri-Sat 3 pm-1 am

Base Bar Hard Rock Hotel Chicago 230 N. Michigan Ave. 312.345.1000; hardrockhotelchicago.com Mon-Thu from 3 pm, Fri from 1:30 pm, Sat from 11 am, Sun from 12 pm

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

LOCATED IN HOTEL

C-View Affinia Hotel 166 E. Superior St. 312.787.6000; affinia.com Daily 5 pm-12 am

Ghost Bar N9NE 440 W. Randolph St. 312.575.9900; n9negroup.com Fri 8:30 pm-2 am, Sat 8:30 pm-2 am

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Crimson Lounge Sax Hotel 333 N. Dearborn St. 312.923.2473; crimsonchicago.com Daily 4 pm-2 am 0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL

Le Bar Sofitel Chicago Water Tower 20 E. Chestnut St. 312.324.4000; cafedesarchitectes.com/Le_bar Sun-Wed 3 pm-1 am, Thu-Sat 3 pm-2 am 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

JBar The James Hotel 610 N. Rush St. 312.660.7200; jameshotels.com Wed-Fri 6 pm-2 am, Sat 8 pm-3 am 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL

NoMI Lounge Park Hyatt Hotel, 7th fl. 800 N. Michigan Ave. 312.239.4030; nomirestaurant.com Sun-Thu 11:30 am-11 pm, Fri-Sat 11:30 am-1 am 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

ROOF theWit 201 N. State St., 27th fl. 312.239.9501; thewithotel.com Mon-Fri 4 pm-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am, Sun 11 am-2 am 0.2 MILE FROM HOTEL

The Terrace at Trump Trump International Hotel & Tower® 401 N. Wabash Ave., 16th fl. 312.588.8600; trumpchicagohotel.com Mon-Sun 2:30-11 pm 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

Whiskey Sky W Hotel 644 N. Lake Shore Dr. 312.943.9200; starwoodhotels.com/whotels Sun-Fri 4 pm-2 am, Sat 4 pm-3 am 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Japonais 600 W. Chicago Ave. 312.822.9600; japonaischicago.com Mon-Wed 5 pm-1 am, Thu-Fri 5 pm-2 am, Sat 5 pm-3 am, Sun 5 pm-12 am 1.5 MILES FROM HOTEL

Martini Park 151 W. Erie St. 312.640.0577; martinipark.com/Chicago Mon-Fri 5 pm-2 am, Sat 5 pm-3 am 1 MILE FROM HOTEL

NV Penthouse Lounge 116 W. Hubbard St. 312.329.9960; nvpenthouselounge.com Wed-Thu 9 pm-2 am, Fri 5 pm-3 am, Sat 9 pm-3 am 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

Stay Lounge 111 W. Erie St. 312.475.0816; staylounge.com Mon-Fri 12:30 pm-4 am, Sat 12:30 pm-5 am 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Sub 51 51 W. Hubbard St., Lower Level 312.828.0051; sub51.com Thu-Fri 9:30 pm-2 am, Sat 9:30 pm-3 am 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL

Sugarcane Lounge SUSHISAMBA® Rio 504 N. Wells St. 312.595.2300; sushisamba.com Thu 5 pm-12 am, Fri 5 pm-1 am, Sat 5 pm-2 am 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

The Violet Hour 1520 N. Damen Ave. 773.252.1500; theviolethour.com Sun-Fri 6 pm-2 am, Sat 6 pm-3 am 3.5 MILES FROM THE HOTEL

Vertigo Lounge Dana Hotel & Spa 2 W. Erie St. 312.202.6060; danahotelandspa.com Mon-Thu from 5 pm, Fri 5 pm-2 am, Sat 5 pm-3 am, Sun 5-10 pm

Y 224 W. Ontario St. 312.274.1880; ychicago.com Wed-Fri 10 pm-2 am, Sat 10 pm-3 am

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

rated

Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Live Music Venues

Performing Arts

Blue Chicago 536 N. Clark St. 312.661.0100; bluechicago.com Sun-Fri 8 pm-1:30 am, Sat 8 pm-2:30 am $8-$10 cover

Auditorium Theatre Roosevelt University 50 E. Congress Pkwy. 312.922.2110; auditoriumtheatre.org Box office Mon-Fri 12-6 pm

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Buddy Guy’s Legends 754 S. Wabash Ave. 312.427.1190; buddyguys.com Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 5 pm-3 am, Sun 6 pm-2 am $10-$15 cover 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Chicago Theatre 175 N. State St. 312.462.6300; thechicagotheatre.com Box office Mon-Fri 12-6 pm Ticket prices vary 0.2 MILE FROM HOTEL

Double Door 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773.489.3160; doubledoor.com Box office Mon 12-5 pm, 12 pm-12 am on show nights Showtimes and ticket prices vary 3.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

Bank of America Theater 18 W. Monroe St. 312.977.1700; broadwayinchicago.com Call for box office hours 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

Cadillac Palace Theater 151 W. Randolph St. 312.977.1700; broadwayinchicago.com Call for box office hours 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Shakespeare Theater Navy Pier 800 E. Grand Ave. 312.595.5600; chicagoshakes.com Box office Tue-Sat 12-5 pm, Sun 12-4 pm 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Civic Opera House 20 N. Wacker Dr. 312.419.0033; civicoperahouse.com Box office Mon-Fri, 12-6 pm 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

The Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway St. 773.878.5552; greenmilljazz.com Daily 12 pm-4 am $6-$12 cover

Ford Center for the Performing Arts/Oriental Theater 24 W. Randolph St. 312.977.1700; broadwayinchicago.com Call for box office hours

6.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

0.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn St. 312.923.2000; houseofblues.com Music at 10 pm daily Ticket prices vary

Goodman Theatre 170 N. Dearborn St. 312.443.3800; goodmantheatre.org Box office Mon-Fri 10 am-5 pm, Sat-Sun 12-5 pm

0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL

LaSalle Power Company 500 N. LaSalle Blvd. 312.661.1122; lasallepowerco.com Wed-Fri 4 pm-2 am, Sat 10:30 am-3 am, Sun 10:30 am-2 am No cover

Harris Theater Millennium Park 205 Upper Randolph Dr. 312.334.7777; harristheaterchicago.org Box office Mon-Fri 12-6 pm, Sat 10 am-4 pm

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

Metro 3730 N. Clark St. 773.549.0203; metrochicago.com Box office Tue-Sat 12-8 pm Ticket prices vary

The Second City 1616 N. Wells St. 312.337.3992; secondcity.com Online ticketing

5 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Redhead Piano Bar 16 W. Ontario St. 312.640.1000; redheadpianobar.com Sun-Fri 7 pm-4 am, Sat 7 pm-5 am No cover 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Rumba 351 W. Hubbard St. 312.222.1226; rumba351.com Tue-Wed 5-10 pm, Thu 5-11 pm, Fri 5 pm-2 am, Sat 5 pm-3 am $10 cover 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

2.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Steppenwolf Theater Company 1650 N. Halsted St. 312.335.1650; steppenwolf.org Box office Mon-Sat 11 am-5 pm, Sun 1-5 pm 2.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

rated

Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Wine & Suds

Chicago Classes

Wine Bars

Big City Swing 1012 W. Randolph St. 312.243.0700; bigcityswing.com First Fri of each month 8 pm-12 am 45-minute beginner lesson followed by open dancing, $10 Private lessons by appointment, $60/hour for single or couple

404 Wine Bar 2856 N. Southport Ave. 773.404.8400; jacks404.com Mon-Fri 5 pm-2 am, Sat 12 pm-3 am 4.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

Bin 36 339 N. Dearborn St. 312.755.9463; bin36.com Mon-Wed 6:30 am-11 pm, Thu 6:30 am-12 am, Fri-Sat 7 am-1 am, Sun 7 am-10 pm 0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL

D.O.C. Wine Bar 2602 N. Clark St. 773.883.5101; docwinebarchicago.com Sun-Sat 5 pm-2 am 3.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

Pops for Champagne 601 N. State St. 312.266.7677; popsforchampagne.com Sun-Fri 3 pm-2 am, Sat 1 pm-2 am 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

The Tasting Room 1415 W. Randolph St. 312.942.1313; thetastingroomchicago.com Mon-Fri 5 pm-1 am, Sat 5 pm-2 am 2.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Beer Bars Beer Bistro 1061 W. Madison St. 312.433.0013; thebeerbistro.com Sun-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am

1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Bin 36 339 N. Dearborn St. 312.755.9463; bin36.com Call for event schedule Wine classes and seminars, $36-$48 per class 0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Photography Classes 4001 N. Ravenswood Ave., 5th fl. 312.671.7717; chicagophotoclasses.com First and third Sat of each month 10 am-5 pm 1-day bootcamp $175; camera provided 5.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Chicago Sailing Belmont Harbor North, Dock B 3256 N. Recreation Dr. 773.871.7245; chicagosailing.com Tue-Fri, 5:30-8:30 pm Introduction to sailing, $95 4.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Chopping Block 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Ste. 107 312.644.6360; thechoppingblock.net Call for daily class schedule Demonstration classes $40, hands-on classes $75, wine classes $60 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Kayak Chicago 1501 N. Magnolia Ave. 630.336.7245; kayakchicago.com Memorial Day-Oct.: Wed-Sun 10 am-7 pm Dec.-May: Pool sessions available. Call for location and class times. $85 and up for outdoor, $50 for pool 2.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

1.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Clark Street Ale House 742 N. Clark St. 312.642.9253 Sun-Sat 4 pm-5 am

The Kids’ Table 2337 W. North Ave. 773.235.2665; kids-table.com Call to schedule Cooking classes for all ages starting at $25

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

3.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Goose Island Brew Pub 3535 N. Clark St. 773.832.9040; gooseisland.com Sun-Wed 11 am-11 pm, Thu 11 am-12 am, Fri-Sat 11 am-2 am

Latin Rhythms Dance Studio 210 N. Racine Ave. 708.227.6028; latinrhythmsdance.com Call to schedule private Latin dance lesson Basic/intermediate 50-min lesson, $70 single, $95 couple Advanced 50-min lesson, $80 single, $105 couple

4.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

1.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Hopleaf 5148 N. Clark St. 773.334.9851; hopleaf.com Sun-Fri 3 pm-2 am, Sat 3 pm-3 am

Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. 773.728.6000; oldtownschool.org Call for workshop schedule; workshops include flamenco guitar, Zydeco dance, jazz improv and more Free-$45

6.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Map Room 1949 N. Hoyne Ave. 773.252.7636; maproom.com Sun-Fri 11 am-1:25 am, Sat 11 am-2:25 am 4 MILES FROM HOTEL

6.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

River East Art Center 435 E. Illinois St. 312.321.1001; rivereastartcenter.com Call to schedule Individual painting/drawing classes, $90/hour 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

rated Sports Activities

Sports Bars & Pubs

For tickets to all of Chicago’s top sports games visit vividseats.com

Bull & Bear 431 N. Wells St. 312.527.5973; bullbearbar.com Sun-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am

Bank of America Chicago Marathon Grant Park Columbus Dr. and Monroe Dr. (start) 312.904.9800; chicagomarathon.com Oct. 10, 7:30 am $150 registration 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle Grant Park Columbus Dr. and Monroe Dr. (start) 312.904.9814; shamrockshuffle.com March 21, 9 am $45 registration 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Bears Soldier Field 1410 S. Museum Campus Dr. 847.615.2327; chicagobears.com $68-$350/ticket 2.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Chicago Blackhawks United Center 1901 W. Madison St. 312.455.7000; blackhawks.nhl.com $25-$400/ticket 2.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Chicago Bulls United Center 1901 W. Madison St. 312.455.4000; nba.com/bulls $10-$155/ticket 2.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Chicago Cubs Wrigley Field 1060 W. Addison St. 773.404.2827; chicago.cubs.mlb.com $9-$350/ticket 4.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

Chicago Mackinac Sailboat Race Chicago Yacht Club 400 E. Monroe St. 312.861.7777; cycracetomackinac.com July 24; call for schedule/registration fees 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Triathlon® Monroe Street Harbor 773.404.2372; chicagotriathlon.com Aug. 27-29; triathlon Aug. 29 $155-$300 registration 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago White Sox U.S. Cellular Field 333 W. 35th St. 866.769.4263 chicago.whitesox.mlb.com $10-$100/ticket

Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

The CrossRoads Bar & Grill 1120 W. Madison 312.243.1113; thecrossroadschicago.com Mon-Fri, Sun 11 am-2 am; Sat 11 am-3 am 1.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

District Bar 170 W. Ontario St. 312.337.3477; districtbarchicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 7 pm-3 am, Sun 10 am-2 am 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

English 444 N. La Salle Blvd. 312.222.6200; englishchicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

The Hunt Club 1100 N. State St. 312.988.7887; huntclubchicago.com Mon-Fri 12 pm-4 am, Sat 11 am-5 am, Sun 11 am-4 am 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Market 1113 W. Randolph St. 312.929.4787; marketbarchicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am, Sun 11 am-1 am 1.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

Old Town Social 455 W. North Ave. 312.266.2277; oldtownsocial.com Mon-Fri 5 pm-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am, Sun 11 am-12 am 2.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Social Twenty-Five 25 W. Hubbard St. 312.670.2200; socialtwentyfive.com Mon 10:30 pm-4 am, Thu-Fri 5 pm-4 am, Sat 5 pm-5 am 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL

Theory 9 W. Hubbard St. 312.644.0004; theorychicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am, Sun 11 am-12 am 0.4 MILE FROM HOTEL

4.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon Columbus Dr. and Congress Pkwy. 800.311.1255 chicago.competitor.com Aug. 1 $85-$110 registration

WestEnd 1326 W. Madison St. 312.981.7100; westendwestloop.com Mon-Thu 5 pm-2 am, Fri 3 pm-2 am, Sat 11 am-3 am, Sun 11 am-2 am

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

2.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

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SHOPPING. DINING. PERKS.

Shopping: Men’s Clothes and Shoes

Shopping: Women’s Clothes and Shoes

Alternatives Shoes The 900 Shops 900 N. Michigan Ave., 5th fl. 312.266.1545; altshoes.com Mon-Sat 10 am-7 pm, Sun 12-6 pm

House of Sole 1237 S. Michigan Ave. 312.834.0909; houseofsole.net Mon 12-7 pm, Tue-Fri 11 am-8 pm, Sun 12-6 pm Dec. 1-Mar. 1: Tue-Fri 12-7 pm, Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 12-5 pm

0.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Bonnie & Clyde’s 1751 W. Division St. 773.235.2680; shopbonnieandclydes.com Mon-Thu 12-7 pm, Fri 12-9 pm, Sat 11 am-9 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm 3 MILES FROM HOTEL

Cityblue Apparel & Denim 1444 N. Wells St. 312.664.2222; citybluedenim.com Mon-Thu 11 am-6 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm

SHOPPING EXPERIENCE! Present this ad along with visitor identification at Water Tower Place (Concierge Desk) to receive your free PremierPerks filled with savings and incentives throughout the center.

SHOPWATERTOWER.COM

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Koros 1039 W. Lake St. 312.738.0155; shopkoros.com Sun-Tue 12-6 pm, Wed-Sat 11 am-7 pm 1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

3.5 MILES FROM HOTEL

3.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Fix 1101 W. Fulton Market 312.226.4565; shopfixchicago.com Mon-Tue 12-6 pm, Wed-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 11 am-6 pm

Maria Pinto 135 N. Jefferson St. 312.648.1350; mariapinto.com Mon-Fri 10 am-6 pm, Sat 10 am-3 pm

Haberdash 1350 N. Wells St. 312.440.1300; haberdashmen.com Sun-Mon 12-5 pm; Tue-Wed, Fri 11 am-7 pm; Thu 11 am-8 pm; Sat 11 am-6 pm 2.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

M4Men 3525 N. Southport Ave. 773.698.6407; mboutiquechicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm 5 MILES FROM HOTEL

Nicholas Joseph 71 W. Madison St. 312.895.1577; customsuitsyou.com Call for appointment or book online 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

835 NORTH MICHIGAN AVE. CHICAGO • 312.440.3166

Ikram 873 N. Rush St. 312.587.1000; ikram.com Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm

City Soles/Niche 2001 W. North Ave. 773.489.2001; citysoles.com Mon-Wed, Sat 10 am-7 pm; Thu-Fri 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm

1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

YOU CHICAGO’S ULTIMATE

1.4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Lori’s Shoes 824 W. Armitage Ave. 773.281.5655; lorisshoes.com Mon-Thu 11 am-7 pm, Fri 11 am-6 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm

1.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

PREMIER PERKS OFFERS

Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Store 717 N. Michigan Ave. 312.944.6500; saksfifthavenue.com Mon-Wed 10 am-7 pm, Thu-Sat 10 am-8 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Universal Gear 3153 N. Broadway St. 773.296.1090; universalgear.com Mon-Thu 10 am-9 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am-10 pm, Sun 11 am-8 pm 4 MILES FROM HOTEL

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Ps:accessories 1127 N. State St. 312.932.0077; ps-accessories.com Mon-Fri 10 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Roslyn 2035 N. Damen Ave. 773.489.1311; roslynboutique.com Tue-Sat 11 am-7 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 4 MILES FROM HOTEL

Sarca 710 N. Wabash Ave. 312.255.0900; shopsarca.com Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm; closed Mon in Jan. 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Tribeca 1035 W. Madison St. 312.492.9373; shopattribeca.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 1.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Urban Style Emporium 200 E. Delaware Pl., Lower Level (entrance on Mies van der Rohe Dr.) 312.335.1353; urbanstyleemporium.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 11 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 1 MILE FROM HOTEL

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Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Spa Spaces

Pet Places

Allyu Spa 600 W. Chicago Ave. (entrance on Larrabee) 312.755.1313; allyuspa.com Mon-Fri 10 am-8 pm, Sat 9 am-7 pm, Sun 10 am-6 pm

The Anti-Cruelty Society’s “Bark in the Park” 601 W. Montrose Ave. 312.644.8338; anticruelty.org May 1, 7 am registration, 9 am start Adults $25-$30, kids under 13 $20-$25, kids under 3 free.

1.5 MILES FROM HOTEL

5.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Joseph Michael’s Salon & Spa 715 N. State St. 312.482.9800; josephmichaels.net Tue-Fri 10 am-8 pm, Sat 9 am-6 pm, Sun 10 am-6 pm

Barker & Meowsky 1003 W. Armitage Ave. 773.868.0200; barkerandmeowsky.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Marianne Strokirk Salon 41 E. Oak St. 312.640.0101; mariannestrokirk.com Tue 9 am-6 pm, Wed 8 am-7 pm, Thu 9 am-7 pm, Fri 8 am-6 pm, Sat 8 am-5 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Mireille’s Studio 49 E. Oak St. 312.587.8727; mireillesstudio.com Call for appointment 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Peninsula Spa by ESPA The Peninsula Chicago 108 E. Superior St., 20th fl. 312.573.6860; peninsula.com/Chicago Mon-Fri 8 am-9:30 pm, Sat 7 am-9:30 pm, Sun 8 am-7:30 pm

3.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Doggy Yoga at Lakeshore Athletic Club 211 N. Stetson St. 312.616.9000 ext. 221; lsac.com Third Sat of each month, 12 pm Included in $25 day pass with front desk registration 0.2 MILE FROM HOTEL

Grant Bark Park 900 S. Columbus Dr. 312.264.5630; southloopdogpac.org Sunrise-9 pm $5 Dog Friendly Area tag required 1.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Mercury Canine Cruise Michigan Ave. and Wacker Dr. 312.332.1353; mercuryskylinecruiseline.com July 12-Sept. 27: Sun 10 am Adults $23, kids $10, dogs $7

Ruby Room® 1743-45 W. Division St. 773.235.2323; rubyroom.com Mon-Fri 10 am-7 pm, Sat 9 am-7 pm, Sun 10 am-6 pm

Montrose Dog Beach W. Wilson Ave. and N. Simonds Dr. 312.747.2193; mondog.org Sunrise-9 pm $5 Dog Friendly Area tag required

3 MILES FROM HOTEL

6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Spa Space 161 N. Canal St. 312.466.9585; spaspace.com Mon, Wed-Fri 10 am-8 pm; Tue 12-8 pm; Sat 9 am-6 pm; Sun 11 am-5 pm

Three Dog Bakery 2622 N. Halsted St. 773.698.6261; threedogbakerychicago.com Mon-Fri 11 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Tirra Salon & Spa 375 W. Erie St. 312.951.8255; tirrasalon.com Tue-Wed, Fri 9 am-7 pm; Thu 9 am-8 pm; Sat 9 am-5 pm 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Urban Oasis 12 W. Maple St. 312.587.3500; urbanoasismassage.com Mon 12-8 pm, Tue-Thu 10 am-8 pm, Fri 9 am-7 pm, Sat 9 am-6 pm, Sun 10 am-5 pm 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Verto Salon 1412 W. Division St. 773.904.8282; vertosalon.com Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm, Sat 8 am-7 pm 2.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

0.1 MILE FROM HOTEL

3.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Wigglyville Pet Boutique 3337 N. Broadway 773.528.3337; wigglyville.com Mon-Fri 10 am-7 pm, Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm 4.3 MILES FROM HOTEL

Wishbone restaurant 1001 W. Washington Blvd. 312.850.2663; wishbonechicago.com Call for hours; dogs allowed on patio during summer 1.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Dog Lover’s Companion to Chicago: The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog Margaret Littman, paperback, $17.95 ©Avalon Travel Publishing, 2006 Though not a destination, this book will give you all the Chicago canine info and activities that we couldn’t fit in these listings.

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Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Art Galleries

Museums & Attractions

ArchiTech 730 N. Franklin St., Ste. 200 312.475.1290; architechgallery.com Thu-Sat 12-5 pm or by appointment

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr. 312.922.7827; adlerplanetarium.org Mon-Fri 10 am-4 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am-4:30 pm Adults $10, kids 3-14 $6

1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

View famous original architectural and industrial design drawings, prints and photographs at the city’s only architectural art gallery. Colletti Gallery 67 E. Oak St. 312.664.6767; collettigallery.com Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Check out vintage posters from 1880-1940 as well as statues, ceramics and furniture. Dubhe Carreño Gallery 118 N. Peoria St., 2nd fl. 312.666.3150; dubhecarrenogallery.com Tue-Sat 10:30 am-5:30 pm 1.5 MILES FROM HOTEL

Known for ceramics, this spot has pieces from artists whose work is shown in major public collections.

1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

The Art Institute of Chicago 111 S. Michigan Ave. 312.443.3600; artic.edu/aic Mon-Wed 10:30 am-5 pm, Thu 10:30 am-8 pm, Fri 10:30 am-5 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am-5 pm Adults $18, students/seniors $12, kids under 14 free. Free Thu 5-8 pm. 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St. 312.642.4600; chicagohistory.org Mon-Sat 9:30 am-4:30 pm, Sun 12-5 pm Adults $14, students/seniors $12, kids under 12 free 1.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Josef Glimer Gallery, Ltd. 207 W. Superior St. 312.787.4640; josefglimergallery.com Tue-Sat 11 am-5 pm

The Field Museum 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. 312.922.9410; fieldmuseum.org Daily 9 am-5 pm Adults $23, students/seniors $20, kids 3-11 $13

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

1.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

Art traditionalists will find a vast selection of fine art from Rembrandt to Renoir, Picasso and Chagall. Leslie Hindman Auctioneers 1338 W. Lake St. 312.280.1212; lesliehindman.com Call for auction schedule 1.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

Often considered the Midwest’s leading fine arts auction house. The Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair™ Kinzie St. and N. Wells St. 312.527.4141; merchandisemartantiques.com April 30-May 3 and Oct. 2-5 0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

The fair offers presentations and designer consultations addition to its enormous array of books, ceramics, glass, textiles and other 21st century antiques. Nicole Gallery 230 W. Huron St. 312.787.7716; nicolegallery.com Tue-Sat 11 am-5 pm 1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Affiliated with Le Centre d’Art in Port-au-Prince, the gallery specializes in Haitian, African and African-American art. Russell Bowman Art Advisory 311 W. Superior St. 312.751.9500; bowmanart.com Tue-Sat 10 am-5:30 pm 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

An array of works from contemporary artists. Stephen Daiter Gallery/Daiter Contemporary 230 W. Superior St., 4th fl. 312.787.3350; stephendaitergallery.com Wed-Sat 11 am-6 pm 1.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Dr. 312.742.2000; lpzoo.com April-May: Daily10 am-5 pm Memorial Day-Labor Day: Mon-Fri 10 am-5 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am-6:30 pm Sept-Oct: Daily10 am-5 pm Nov-March: Daily 10 am-4:30 pm Free 2.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave. 312.280.2660; mcachicago.org Tue 10 am-8 pm, Wed-Sun 10 am-5 pm Adults $12, students/seniors $7, kids under 12/military free. Free all day Tue. 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. 773.684.1414; msichicago.org Mon-Sat 9:30 am-5:30 pm, Sun 11 am-5:30 pm Adults $15, seniors $14, kids 3-11 $11 7.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. 312.595.7437; navypier.com Nov. 1-March 31: Mon-Thu 10 am-8 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am-10 pm, Sun 10 am-7 pm April 1-Thu before Memorial Day: Sun-Thu 10 am-8 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am-10 pm Fri before Memorial Day-Labor Day: Sun-Thu 10 am-10 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am-12 am Tue after Labor Day-Oct. 31: Sun-Thu 10 am-8 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am-10 pm Free; activity ticket prices vary

Stocked with American and European photography.

1 MILE FROM HOTEL

Thomas Masters Gallery 245 W. North Ave. 312.440.2322; thomasmastersgallery.com Wed-Fri 12-6 pm, Sat 11 am-6 pm, Sun 12-5 pm

Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. 312.939.2438; sheddaquarium.org Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm, Sat-Sun 9 am-6 pm Adults $24.95, kids 3-11 $17.95

1.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Over 30 contemporary artists, mainly painters.

1.6 MILES FROM HOTEL

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Top 10s: Chicago’s Best

Ways to See Chicago

Parks & Recreation

Aviation Vacations 415 N. Aberdeen Ave. 800.757.6603; aviationvacations.us/chicago-by-night Call to schedule $399-$525

Burnham Park 425 E. McFetridge Dr. 773.256.0949; explorechicago.org Daily dawn to dusk

1.7 MILES FROM HOTEL

Bobby’s Bike Hike Ogden Slip at River East Docks 465 N. McClurg Ct. 312.915.0995; bobbysbikehike.com Mar. 1-Nov. 30: Daily 1:30 pm Memorial Day-Labor Day: Daily 10 am, 1:30 pm Adults $27-$32, senior/students $18-$23, kids 5-12 $14-$18, kids 4 and under $5 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Architecture Boat Tour or Boat Charter 465 N. McClurg Ct. 312.527.1977; chicagoline.com Mar. 27-Nov. 29, 9 am-4 pm Adults $36, seniors $31, kids $21 0.8 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tour 600 N. Clark St. 1.888.446.7891; chicagohauntings.com Daily Fri 8 pm, Sat 7 pm, Sun 3 pm Adults $28 0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Neighborhood Tour 77 E. Randolph St. 312.742.1190; chicagoneighborhoodtours.com Feb-Dec: Sat 10 am (except major holiday weekends) Adults $30, seniors/students/kids 8-18 $25 0.2 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Segway Tour 505 N. Lake Shore Dr. 312.890.3701; chicagosegwaytour.com Daily 9 am, 12, 3 & 6 pm Ages 13 and up $65 0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. Millennium Park East of Michigan Ave. on the south curb of Randolph St. 773.648.5000; coachusa.com/chicagotrolley Daily 9 am-5 pm Adults $29, seniors $21.50, kids $15 (discount available online)

1.8 MILES FROM HOTEL

Famed architect Daniel H. Burnham created the sketch of this park in his influential “Plan of Chicago” published in 1909. Chicago Green City Market 1750 N. Clark St. 773.880.1266; chicagogreencitymarket.org May-Oct: Wed & Sat 7 am-1 pm 2.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Enjoy fresh produce at Chicago’s premier “green” farmer’s market with more than 60 participating farmers. Chicago Riverwalk 100 E. Wacker Dr. 877.244.2246; explorechicago.org Daily 6 am-11 pm 0.1 MILE FROM HOTEL

View the city skyline while strolling along the Chicago River. Daley Plaza Farmers Market 50 W. Washington St. 312. 744.3315; explorechicago.org May 6-Oct. 14: Thu 7 am-3 pm 0.5 MILE FROM HOTEL

Grab fresh fruits, veggies, flowers from over 70 local vendors. Grant Park 337 E. Randolph St. 312.742.7648; chicagoparkdistrict.com Daily dawn to dusk 0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

Home to some of Chicago’s best attractions like The Art Institute of Chicago, The Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium. Lincoln Park Conservatory 2391 N. Stockton Dr. 312.742.7736; chicagoparkdistrict.com Daily 9 am–5 pm 2.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

See a bit of Chicago’s “green” history at this historic conservatory constructed in stages between 1890 and 1895.

5.2 MILES FROM HOTEL

Lurie Garden Millennium Park Columbus Dr. & Monroe St. 312.742.1168; millenniumpark.org Labor Day-Memorial Day 6 am-11 pm Attend garden lectures and workshops throughout the year.

John Hancock Observatory 875 N. Michigan Ave. 888.875.8439; hancock-observatory.com/en Daily 9 am-11 pm Adults $15, kids 3-11 $10, kids under 3 free

Millennium Park 201 E. Randolph Street 312.742.1168; millenniumpark.org Daily 6 am-11 pm

0.6 MILE FROM HOTEL

0.9 MILE FROM HOTEL

0.3 MILE FROM HOTEL

Untouchable Gangster Tours 600 N. Clark St. 773.881.1195; gangstertour.com Mon-Wed 10 am; Thu, Sun 10 am & 12 pm; Fri 10 am, 12, 2 & 7:30 pm; Sat 10 am, 12, 2 & 4 pm Adults $28

North Avenue Beach 1603 N. Lake Shore Dr. 312.742.7529; chicagoparkdistrict.com Beach Memorial Day-Labor Day 9 am-8 pm; biking/running path open year-round

A 24.5-acre park in the center of downtown Chicago.

0.7 MILE FROM HOTEL

2.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

Willis Tower Skydeck 233 S. Wacker Dr. 312.875.9696; the-skydeck.com Apr-Sep: Daily 9 am-10 pm Oct-Mar: Daily 10 am-8 pm Adults $15.95, kids 3-11 $11

Sydney R. Marovitz/Waveland Avenue Golf Course 3600 N. Recreation Dr. 312.245.0909; cpdgolf.com Call for tee time or book online $20.50 weekdays, $23.50 weekends; cart rental additional

1.1 MILES FROM HOTEL

North Avenue Beach is one of Chicago’s hottest summer spots.

4.9 MILES FROM HOTEL

A 9-hole, par 36 golf course right off Lake Michigan.