N A M E D B E ST H O S P I TA L I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N
APRIL-MAY 2022
s y a W + 100 y S
o j n E To hicago C n i g prin
INSIDE • • • •
BEST OUTDOOR DINING BASEBALL IS BACK CHICAGO IN BLOOM 100+ TOP PLACES TO EAT, DRINK, SHOP & DO
SCAN HERE FOR MORE GREAT THINGS TO DO
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TABLE OF CONTENTS NOW 5
Making the Most of Chicago Spring World-class art exhibits and other fun things to do this season
18 20
DO 22
Chicago in Bloom A tribute to the city’s most lush gardens and conservatories
25
Music, Maestro! Have a great night out at some of the city’s best live music bars Cheers to Chicago Meet some of the concierges’ favorite bartenders and mixologists
EXPLORE 6
Baseball is Back Explore the best of both worlds in Wrigleyville and Bridgeport
EAT 8 10
21
Not Your Daddy’s Steakhouse Discover a unique restaurant to eat a traditional steak Let’s Go Outside Enjoy the spring weather from Chicago’s best patios & rooftops and find out concierges’ favorite outdoor dining spots Let the Good Pies Roll Concierges weigh in on their favorite slice
DRINK
28
SHOPPING 30 32
Magnificent Mile Map Downtown Chicago Maps
Older IS Better Our guide to vintage shopping in Chicago State Street, That Great Street Shopping until you’re dropping in the Loop
THE LAST WORD
MAPS 13 14
Chicago Metro Maps Northside Map
33
Celebrating 4/20 in Chicago Learn more about the National Marijuana holiday
CONTRIBUTORS Marissa Rainone
EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT Tim O’Malley EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Michael Magnusson SR. ACCOUNTING MANAGER Patrizia Dell’Orefice
MARKETING SENIOR DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & DIRECTOR OF EVENTS Dillin Ravenscraft
EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Leentje De Leeuw
SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jay Kopp Jean Lieber Jim Rhoda
EDITOR Wendy Bright
PARTNER SUCCESS ASSOCIATE Marianna Kudriashova
405 West Superior Street, Suite #706 Chicago, IL 60654 TEL 312-360-1770 CONCIERGEPREFERRED.COM
Copyright (c) 2022 by Ateema Media & Marketing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproductions of this publication is strictly prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for content of any advertisement in this publication including errors or omissions.
APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 3
NOW
Making the Most of Spring in Chicago Must-Do’s around the City By Leentje De Leeuw WORLD RENOWNED ART EXPERIENCES CEZANNE @ The Art Institute of Chicago 600,000 visitors are expected to visit the first Paul Cézanne retrospective in the U.S. in over twentyfive years. This groundbreaking exhibit sheds new light not only on how this pivotal artist created his works but why his art remains so vital today. Opens May 15th.
IMMERSIVE FRIDA KAHLO The team behind Immersive Van Gogh created a new experience that is about to WOW you. Explore the world through the eyes of the legendary Frida Kahlo, the brilliant, uncompromising painter and icon who created some of the most iconic art ever.
GET ON THE WATER Experiencing the beauty of the city from the river and/or Lake Michigan is an absolute must for everyone. Check out City Experiences by Hornblower, Chicago Line Cruises, First Lady, Shoreline, and many more to pick the cruise that suits you best.
GO TO A SHOW Did you know that Chicago has the world’s third largest theater district? Six, Moulin Rouge, Jersey Boys, and To Kill a Mockingbird are just a few of this spring’s hit shows on Broadway in Chicago. But this city has many smaller theater companies that are guaranteed to satisfy your hunger for a good play, comedy show or musical: Steppenwolf, Lookingglass, Second City, Shakespeare Theater, and many, many more!
HOP ON A BIKE, SCOOTER OR SEGWAY Whether you rent a Divvy (e-)bike for the day, rent a bike from Bobby’s, hop on a scooter or take a Segway tour: there are plenty of means of transportation available that allow you to breathe in the fresh Chicago spring air.
For more spring inspiration, check out the rest of this magazine and visit our website www.conciergepreferred.com APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 5
EXPLORE
BASEBALL By Marissa Rainone
Baseball season is back! Break out your favorite team’s gear and get ready to play ball! But baseball season is more than just the game – it’s about all the fun you can have before, during, and after the game. White Sox Mark your calendars: the White Sox home opener will be played on April 12th against the Seattle Mariners. Here are some of the best spots to party before and after the game!
Cork and Kerry At The Park Looking for a great place to visit before heading to the Guaranteed Rate Field? Check out Cork and Kerry At The Park. Located only a couple blocks from the stadium, this tavern offers an incredible menu with a large drink selection, traditional Irish meals, and some of Chicago’s favorite items.
Shinnick's Pub A family-owned bar for over 80 years, Shinnick’s Pub is a neighborhood landmark and one of the longest operating bars in Chicago. This small but mighty pub is perfect for a pre-game stop for ice cold beer while cheering on the White Sox.
Moody Tongue Brewing Company Looking for a special way to end a Sox game day? Check out the world’s first two-star Michelin brewery, Moody Tongue Brewing Company. Not only can you try some sensational beer, you will enjoy terrific food that pairs perfectly with your new favorite beer. Located just a couple of blocks from the stadium, it is the perfect place to visit after a baseball game.
Pancho Pistolas Have a craving for some Mexican food? Check out the family-run Mexican restaurant just a couple blocks away from the stadium, Pancho Pistolas. They pride themselves on serving only the most authentic Mexican fare in a casual atmosphere. Looking for some sun? Pancho Pistolas has the perfect outdoor patio for you to enjoy your meal.
The Duck Inn After a day game, check out The Duck Inn for a delicious post-game meal. At The Duck Inn you are able to get great homemade food with a cozy, retro aesthetic. Who wouldn’t love a homecooked meal after watching your favorite baseball team play?
6 | CONCIERGE PREFERRED
L IS BACK Cubs The Cubs’ first home game at Wrigley Field in 2022 will be on April 7 against the Milwaukee Brewers and there will be a four game tournament going through the weekend. If you are looking for more this baseball season, check out some of the great bars around the field for cold drinks and lots of fun!
Murphy's Bleachers Looking for a rich slice of Chicago history? Check out Murphy’s Bleachers, which has been a Chicago staple for close to 80 years. Murphy’s solidified their legend in 1984 when owner Jim Murphy opened their first rooftop, sparking the movement that defines Wrigleyville. Besides being a Wrigleyville legend, they offer great bar food and a large selection of beer and whiskey.
Smoke Daddy What better way to ring in baseball season and the warmer weather than with delicious barbeque, live music, and ice cold beer? With simply mouth-watering barbeque and a beer and cocktail menu that is just like the Midwest -- straightforward and classic -- Smoke Daddy is the perfect place to cheer on the Cubs.
Sluggers Can’t get enough baseball? Sluggers has been named ESPN’s number one baseball bar in Chicago and one of Huffington Post’s top five sports bars in Chicago. Not enough to just sit and watch the game with an ice cold beer? Check out the second level where they offer batting cages, skee-ball, air hockey, arcade games, and more. Sluggers has something for everyone!
Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern Want to get as close to the action as possible? Check out the Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern. The only place closer to the action is the actual ball park. The Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern pays homage to the legendary Chicago Cubs broadcaster Jack Brickhouse by including memorabilia and rich features throughout the tavern. With delicious food, two stories, and four full bars, this tavern is the best place to cheer your favorite team to victory.
The Cubby Bear Get that Chicago feeling by checking out The Cubby Bear! Located right across the street from Wrigley Field, they have deep roots in Chicago’s music and nightlife scene, having both witnessed the most historic Cubs victories and played host to many local and national music acts. The Cubby Bear allows you to watch the Cubs play and then dance along to some excellent live music after. The party never stops! APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 7
EAT
STK...
Not Your Daddy’s Steakhouse By Leentje De Leeuw
A visit to Chicago is not complete without experiencing one of the city’s renowned steakhouses. If you are looking for something a cut above, definitely try STK Steakhouse. Not your traditional steakhouse, STK offers a modern fine dining experience in a stylish and upscale setting—similar to an exclusive nightclub with artful decor and music. Yet their menu includes such American comfort foods as mac & cheese, tater tots, warm chocolate chip cookies, and apple pie. STK takes their steaks seriously. Each piece of their USDA beef comes primarily from farms in Iowa and Nebraska. The Linz Heritage certified black angus cattle are certified, allowing for consistency and the highest quality marbled beef. Besides their fine filets, strips, and ribeyes, STK offers chicken, lamb, and a variety of fish, lobster, shrimp, and oysters. For those in your party who are not meat eaters, the STK menu has plenty of alternatives such as pasta dishes, a long list of sides, and salads. STK is known for their extensive wine and cocktail list and their quality weekend brunch featuring bottomless bloody marys and mimosas. They are open on all holidays. Make a reservation to experience first class cuisine and cocktails. 8 | CONCIERGE PREFERRED
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Let's Go By Leentje De Leeuw
Enjoy the spring weather from these patios and rooftops Patios
Bandit This no-nonsense West Loop staple is a popular brunch and cocktails spot but if you stick around long enough, do not hesitate to join the disco party upstairs. A visit to the restrooms may be a pleasant surprise as well.
Big Star Housed in a defunct 1940's gas station, Big Star Taqueria and its popular patio have been a Wicker Park staple for over ten years. The Mexican street food inspired menu is complemented by an extensive houseselected single barrel bourbon program.
Beatrix Beatrix has five locations in and around Chicago, each with its own charms. Whether you go for coffee, breakfast, brunch, lunch, cocktails, dinner, or anything in between: you will love Beatrix. We especially enjoy the patio at their Fulton Market location.
Rooftops Chateau Carbide Chateau Carbide is the Cote d’Azur-inspired seasonal outpost on the rooftop of the Pendry Hotel, located in the iconic Carbide & Carbon Building on Michigan Avenue. Enjoy specialty drinks, rosé, a special picnic basket menu, champagne, sushi, and more. Opens in May.
London House Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the river, and Lake Michigan at the iconic rooftop at London House while enjoying reimagined American cuisine and cocktails.
Z-Bar More iconic views await at Z-Bar, located at the Peninsula hotel. This rooftop terrace is an ideal spot to experience Chicago’s wonders. Z Bar embodies the jet setter’s search for surprise and adventure, with a touch of luxury. 10 | CONCIERGE PREFERRED
o Outside Chicago Concierges weigh in on their favorite outdoor dining spots River Roast “My favorite outdoor dining spot is River Roast, located on N LaSalle. With unpretentious food and service, I always feel comfortable dining outside either solo or with friends. It’s a great place to take a break from sightseeing and catch a few rays while gazing at the river and watching the boats go by.” Morgan Jae Cohen Chef Concierge at Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
Woodwind “Woodwind is located on the 18th floor of Northwestern’s Lavin Pavilion. It is a sleek and contemporary hidden gem with a view, terrace and three bars!” Deborah Sawyer, Lead Concierge at the Palmer House Hilton
Reggie’s on the Beach “My favorite outdoor dining spot is Reggie's on the Beach on 63rd St. beach. It's open typically from May to late September/early October.” Krystle Kauhaus, Front Desk at Hampton Inn/Homewood Suites Mag Mile
Torali Bar “I love the Ritz-Carlton’s Torali Bar, located near the beautiful 12th floor lobby. It is easily accessible and is extremely charming!” Melissa Long, Concierge at the Ritz-Carlton
Lark on Halsted “My favorite outdoor dining spot is Lark on Halsted. You can enjoy the outdoor patio or have that great ‘plein air’ feeling with the open French doors. Their drag brunch is festive and a great way to celebrate with friends or colleagues!” Etienne Padin, Former Concierge of Eurostars Magnificent Mile
Piccolo Sogno “Piccolo Sogno has amazing fresh Italian food and an amazing wine list to choose from. The garden patio is large and lively but still exudes an elegant atmosphere. Did I mention it's easily accessible on the CTA by bus or train? I am a fan of the freshing Inverno Salad with arugula, red wine-poached pears.” Flor Sigaran, Building Hub Concierge
The Royal Grocer & Co. “My favorite outdoor dining spot is The Royal Grocer & Co. It is just off the 606 walking trail in Bucktown, so it makes a perfect choice for brunch after (or prior to!) a stroll through the neighborhood.” Mathew Chapman, Concierge at JW Marriott Chicago APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 11
Maps
13 MAGNIFICENT MILE MAP 14 DOWNTOWN CHICAGO MAPS
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Loft Tommy Bahama
Ferragamo Ermenegildo Zegna Burberry Orvis
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Navy Pier 3 blocks
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430 N
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400 N
Tribune Tower Pioneer Court
Apple Store
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Northwestern Memorial Hospital
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Museum of Contemporary Art
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100 E
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830 N
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Hyatt Regency Swissôtel
Fountain & Arc
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Chicago Architecture Center
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CHICAGO METRO Quentin Rd
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Hoffman Estates
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Romeoville
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Palos Forest Preserve
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Lewis Renwick Rd Univ
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Weber Rd
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Woodridge
Forest Preserve
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55th
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Darien
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LaGrange
Hinsdale
Main
Maple
Naperville
River
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Ogd
Downers Grove Metra BNSF Line
Lisle
Medical Center
Brookfield Zoo
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WestchesterHines VA
Oak Brook
Highland
56
Fore Park
290
Hillside
88
Fran Hom Lak
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56
Oakbrook Center
Yorktown Center
88
Nape r Blvd
Melrose Park
Roosevelt
53
171
45
e est Lin UP W Villa
Lombard Park
Glen Ellyn
College of DuPage Forest Preserves
Franklin Park
Elmhurst
North Ave Metra
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Stephens Conv Center Fashion Outlets of Chicago
Addison
64
Wheaton
Rosemont O’Hare International Airport
Bensenville
Bloomingdale Rd
Gary Ave
County Farm Rd
Bloomingdale
Wheaton College
Touhy
Cumberland
290
Stratford Square
Army Trail
Allstate Arena
90
Elk Grove Village
st Lin
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Park Ridge
Des Plaines
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Golf Mill
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Carol Stream
Mount Prospect
Glen Town Center
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LET THE GOOD
PIES ROLL! Concierges weigh in on their favorite slice By Leentje De Leeuw Robert’s Pizza and Dough Co. “Robert's Pizza and Dough Co. is a can't miss for locals and visitors alike. The dough is the perfect crunch-and-chew base for the toppings, many of which are unexpected. My favorite is the Seafood pizza - calamari, shrimp and clams with a white wine cream sauce. Or maybe it is the Caramelized Onion pizza? Can't decide - they are both amazing!” Kristen Kopplin, Concierge, The Drake by Hilton
Flo & Santos “Since I’ve moved here from NYC, I’ve tried a LOT of pizza. My favorites always change. I have really enjoyed the pub style pizza at Flo & Santos in the South Loop. It’s not a chain, the food is always fresh, and I can never stop at just one square!” Morgan Jae Cohen, Chef Concierge, Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
Coalfire
Pizza Friendly Pizza “My favorite pizza is all pizza anytime. That being said, if forced to choose, I am loving Pizza Friendly Pizza in West Town. Neighborhood stalwart The Empty Bottle partnered with Michelin starred chef Noah Sandoval (Oriole) to create a light and crispy square slice with incredibly well-appointed toppings. My go-to has long been the ‘pig and fig’ slice.” Mat Chapman, Concierge, Jw Marriott Chicago
“Coalfire has a warm neighborhood feel with outdoor dining. I love their thin crust New York style pizza cooked in an open coal oven. All pizzas are made from ingredients from organic farms and artisan butchers.” Deborah Sawyer, Lead Concierge, Palmer House Hilton
Pequod’s “Pequod's still reigns supreme in my book. No one does the caramelized crust better. Pizza is the name of the game and in my eyes Pequod's stands above the rest.” Luis Torres, Concierge, Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 21
DO
Chicago in Bloom By Marissa Rainone
The sun is out and the birds are chirping. What better way to spend a spring day than taking time to admire all the bursts of color and textures that Chicago has to offer? Here’s where to discover the city’s colorfully lush gardens and conservatories.
Chicago Botanic Garden Take a short trip north of the city to Glencoe to visit the delightful Chicago Botanic Garden. Every year more than one million people are drawn to the 27 gardens and four natural areas. The Garden is beautifully situated on 385 acres that include nine islands with six miles of shoreline. Visitors will experience greenery from across the world, including a Japanese Garden, an English Walled Garden, and Bonsai collection, while getting better acquainted with plants native to Illinois and the Midwest. The Garden is open every day of the year with hours changing seasonally.
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Garden of the Phoenix On the border of the Hyde Park and South Shore neighborhoods, tucked away inside Jackson Park, lies a traditional Japanese garden. The Garden of Phoenix originated in the 1893 Columbian Exposition when Japan built its pavilion–known as the Ho-o-den (Phoenix Temple)–on Northerly Island, one of the most visited parts of the Fair. Dedicated to the relationship between the United States and Japan, the pavilion included a small garden, illuminated at night with paper lanterns. In the 1930s the Chicago Park District restored the pavilion, created the more extensive Japanese Garden we see today, and dedicated it to Chicago’s Sister City, Osaka. The best time to visit the Garden is in late April to early May when its 160 cherry blossom trees burst into bloom, the spectacle lasting for 6 to 10 days.
Lurie Garden Hidden away inside bustling Millennium Park is a seemingly secret garden. Celebrating Chicago’s transformation from a marshland to a city in a garden, or “Urbs in Horto” (Chicago’s motto), Lurie Garden is a garden in the city, a place of peaceful retreat. The Garden - designed by renowned Dutch landscape architect Piet Oudolf (also known for the High Line in NYC) - was intended to be a healthy habitat for a wide variety of plants, animals, and insects. You can enjoy Lurie Garden year-round as its appearance changes texture and color with the seasons.
Chicago’s Women’s Park and Gardens In the South Loop lies an intimate space that honors the contributions of women to the city. This small urban park features evocative sculpture honoring Chicago activist and social worker Jane Addams, indigenous plants and trees, pathways, a classical fountain, lovingly tended community garden plots, and the Clarke Museum, Chicago’s oldest house (open to the public). Popular for weddings, childrens’ play, and events such as the Night Out in the Park, Chicago’s Women’s Park and Gardens is a city gem.
Garfield Park Conservatory
Lincoln Park Conservatory
Visit one of the largest and most stunning botanical greenhouses in the nation, Chicago’s own Garfield Park Conservatory. Through eight indoor displays, the Conservatory showcases thousands of plant species from around the world. Open year-round, visitors can explore the lush flora and fauna in tropical temperatures indoors, or the 10-acres of gardens outdoors. The Conservatory features nature play spaces for children, a water lily pond with koi, and works of art throughout. Parking and admission are free to the public, but donations are always welcome.
Looking to be transported to another time? The Lincoln Park Conservatory hearkens to the late 19th century, when it was built to provide glass-covered green space for city dwellers. This indoor park within Chicago’s largest outdoor park invites you to explore tropical palms and ancient ferns, just as people have done for over a century. The Conservatory offers a tropical experience in four display houses. The thousands of plants grown in the Conservatory can be appreciated year-around with free admission.
APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 23
DRINK
MUSIC, MAESTRO! LIVE MUSIC BARS By Marissa Rainone
Live music is a vital part of Chicago's DNA. Check out some of our favorite spots where great music comes with food and/or drinks
Howl At The Moon Get ready to sing and dance the night away. Howl At the Moon in the Near North is the best place for anything from memorable celebrations, such as holiday parties and bachelor/bachelorette parties, to just a fun night out with friends. Their energetic live music show features the best songs from the 80s, 90s, and today. Thirsty? Howl At The Moon offers a wide variety of specialty drinks and cocktails. Hungry? Chow down on some delicious burgers, pizza, tacos, and more. At Howl At The Moon the party never stops.
Andy’s Jazz Club Have an unforgettable evening with friends at one of Chicago’s best-known and most respected jazz venues. Andy’s Jazz Club in Near North is a classy, intimate venue that hosts the region's top jazz artists accompanied by casual dining. Enjoy live performances nightly at 6pm, 8:15pm, or 10:30pm. Admission is $15 per person, charged at the door. Be sure to make reservations. CONTINUE READING ON PAGE 27 APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 25
CONTINUATION FROM PAGE 25
B.L.U.E.S. For live electric blues, visit B.L.U.E.S, the popular blues club on Chicago’s north side. With its retro vibes and cozy space, B.L.U.E.S. offers an authentic Chicago blues experience with artists such as Sunnyland Jim and Pinetop Perkins. All for a $10 cover. Great food and drinks complete the scene. B.L.U.E.S. is open every Wednesday through Sunday.
Blue Chicago Bub City How about some delicious barbecue, American comfort food, whiskey, and the best live country music? Check out Bub City in the Near North. Every Wednesday through Saturday night, Bub City features country musics’ emerging artists on the ACM-nominated venue’s 16-foot stage. Get the night started by stopping by from 3pm to 5pm on Monday through Friday for happy hour and enjoy half-priced Double-Barrel Burgers, Back Porch Teas, and featured Draft Beer.
Open since 1985, classic Blue Chicago in River North presents the best of Chicago Blues in a warm and friendly atmosphere. They have hosted such Blues legends as Koko Taylor, Bonnie Lee, Johnnie B. Moore, Karen Carroll, and many more. Blue Chicago is open Thursday through Sunday, with a $12 admission at the door.
Kingston Mines Check out Lincoln Park’s world-famous Kingston Mines. The largest and oldest blues club in Chicago has hosted musicians such as Joanna Conner, Junior Wells, Magic Slim, Sugar Blue on their two stages and they continue to offer three great artists each week. Not only does Kingston Mines feature unbeatable music, they offer delectable food from Doc’s Kitchen.
Jazz Showcase Experience the oldest jazz club in Chicago, founded in 1947, the Jazz Showcase. Located in Dearborn Station adjacent to Printers Row, the historic Jazz Showcase has hosted the greatest names in jazz, including Dizzy Gillespie, Randy Westion, Frank Morgan, James Carter, and many more. The club continues to present the top international and Chicago homegrown musicians. With show times every night from 8pm to 10pm, you and your friends will experience the most memorable, authentic jazz anywhere.
Winter's Jazz Club Check out Winter’s Jazz Club in Streeterville for a stylish, elegant night of jazz. Cabaret tables, specialty cocktails, and perfect acoustics add up to an excellent experience. Set times are 75 minutes and all seating is first come, first serve. Enjoy happy hour from 6pm to 7pm on Wednesdays through Saturdays and 4pm to 5pm on Sundays for 25% off all drinks. Book your tickets ahead.
House of Blues Looking for a special night out with thrilling music and some great food? Check out the legendary House of Blues just north of the river at Marina City. Start the evening off at the restaurant and bar with their craft cocktails and Southern-inspired menu, including po' boys, jambalaya, brisket nachos, Voodoo Shrimp, and the Smokehouse Platter. After fueling up, it’s time to experience the incredible live rock and blues. APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 27
Cheers to Chicago! Meet some of Chicago’s Concierges’ Favorite Bartenders & Mixologists By Leentje De Leeuw
Spring is here, the perfect time to enjoy a great cocktail (or two) at one of Chicago’s amazing bars. We asked the concierges about their favorite spots to unwind with their favorite drink. Roushaunda @ the Lockwood Bar “Roushanda Will is a personable seasoned mixologist with 21+ years experience. Her specialty, the ‘Old Passion,’ which is a spin on the Old Fashioned cocktail, is delicious and decadent.” Deborah Sawyer Lead Concierge Palmer House Hilton
Sarah @ Little Toasted “Little Toasted has an amazing restaurant and outdoor seasonal patio hidden between the Loop Financial District and the West Loop on Canal & Jackson. Locals love bartender Sarah Katich. She is down to earth and effortlessly cool. Two drinks you have to ask for are the Whiskey Berry Sour and the Upside Down. I happen to love both and can't decide between them!” Flor Sigaran Building Hub Concierge
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Jérémy @ Le Bar “My favorite bartender is Jérémy Foissac at Le Bar, located at Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile. While I’ve never had a cocktail made by him I haven’t liked, his signature drink is called Agrum’& Sens. It’s made with Cîroc Vodka, Yuzu, Timut pepper, lime juice, and grapefruit juice. It’s refreshing and delicious!” Morgan Jae Cohen Chef Concierge Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
Ivan @ Eight Bar “Ivan at Eight Bar in the Gold Coast makes an Old Fashioned drink that has helped me warm up during the Chicago winter. His attention to his craft is exceptional and he anticipates the needs of all his customers.” Luis Torres Concierge at Trump International Hotel & Tower
Chel @ Cobra Lounge “Chel Boren is my favorite! She works at Cobra Lounge and she makes an AMAZING Pink Cadillac Margarita!” Krystle Kauhaus Front Desk Hampton Inn/Homewood Suites Mag Mile Chicago
Daniel @ Cira “My favorite bartender is Daniel Alvarez at the Hoxton Hotel’s lobby bar, Cira. Daniel introduced me to his ‘Naked and Famous’ and it has been the cocktail I find myself craving ever since!” Mat Chapman Concierge Jw Marriott Chicago APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 29
SHOP
VINTAGE SHOPPING IN CHICAGO By Marissa Rainone
Sometimes older is better. Chicago has no shortage of stores to help you get your vintage fix. Whether it be your next favorite record, retro clothing, or that out-of-print book, here are some of the best places to vintage shop.
Record Stores Reckless Records
Shuga Records
With locations in Wicker Park, Lakeview, and the Loop, Reckless Records has something for all vinyl lovers. Check out the Wicker Park location for its in-store performances. Have too many records? Reckless is always looking to buy. Go in person or call if you are interested in selling.
Located in Wicker Park, Shuga Records stocks nearly 200,000 records, designed to enhance your music collection. Open everyday from 12 pm to 7 pm, they feature 20 different genres, both new and used. Don’t have time to visit the store? All Shuga’s vinyl is available for purchase online.
Record Breakers Check out Record Breakers in Logan Square for all the best vinyl, turntables, and more to satisfy your musical cravings. With a massive collection of old and new records, there is more than plenty to choose from. Open everyday from 12 pm to 7 pm, not only can you shop for your next favorite record, you can enjoy their monthly showcase highlighting local bands.
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Thrift Stores Lost Girls Vintage
Kokorokoko
Having been an online-only store, Lost Girls Vintage has since opened two brick and mortar shops in Chicago: in West Town and Logan Square. Check out this unique store for some amazing 1930s-1990s vintage finds. When at a local street fair, don’t forget to keep a lookout for the Lost Girls Vintage bus. Open 7 days a week.
Feel like you're stuck in the 90’s? Kokorokoko in Wicker Park is the place for you. Who doesn’t miss the days of scrunchies and all things neon? Check out this vintage store for 90’s t-shirts, jerseys, sunglasses, VHS tapes, and so much more. You can also shop their whole collection 24/7 on Etsy.
The Fox Club The Fox Club is the place to find colorful 70s, 80s, and 90s retro pieces. In this West Town vintage store, you are guaranteed to find high-quality vintage pieces, including swimwear with unique prints and their in-house swimwear line, Fenton Fox. Create your own style for any occasion, from an ultimate road-trip to your next beach vacation. Embrace your foxy side. Open Wednesday through Sunday.
Books Open Books
after-words Chicago Explore after-words, one of the only independent bookstores left in downtown Chicago. This two-story bookstore features a curated collection of over 70,000 new and used books. Whether you are looking for fiction, poetry, or a children’s book, afterwords has something for everyone. Looking for a specific out-of-print book? They can locate any book in your budget and ship it to you anywhere in the world. after-words also offers special events such as book signings, readings, and lectures.
Looking to expand your mind and do good at the same time? Check out Open Books with several locations in Chicago. Open Books is a nonprofit that inspires thousands of readers each year through literacy programs and the sale of new and used books. Through their literacy programs, they offer educators resources to help strengthen students’ reading and writing skills. Open Books also provides book grants through which they deliver thousands of books to schools and nonprofits. Stop anytime on Mondays through Wednesdays from 10 am to 6 pm and Fridays through Sundays 10 am to 6 pm.
Myopic Bookstore Looking for your next favorite book? Check out Myopic, Chicago’s “best used bookstore,” off the Blue Line at Damen. Open 7 days a week, there are more than 60,000 books to choose from. There’s always something happening at Myopic, including poetry readings and live music. Have too many books? Myopic can help.
APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 31
State Street, That Great Street SHOPPING IN THE LOOP By Leentje De Leeuw
Of the 77 Chicago neighborhoods, the Loop is probably the best known. And with good reason: it is the beating heart of the city and features some of the most popular attractions, restaurants… and shops, of course. Macy’s / Marshall Field’s Marshall Field’s was for decades one of the preeminent department stores in the world and is widely recognized as a customer service innovator. Taken over by Macy’s in 2006, it is still the perfect place to find everything you need, and more. Don’t forget to stop by the Walnut Room for lunch or a drink.
Footaction One of the largest streetwear retailers in the country lives right on State Street. Step up your game and you’ll be playing like the GOAT and Chicago legend, Michael Jordan.
Nordstrom Rack Looking for a good deal on designer brand clothing, shoes, and accessories? Check out Nordstrom Rack on State. This store carries merchandise from Nordstrom stores at 50-60 percent off original prices.
Block 37 TheBlock 37 mall has it all. From skincare and makeup brands like L’Occitane and Sephora, to fashion stores like Zara, Anthropologie and Banana Republic Factory, you can shop til you drop. And afterwards, grab a cupcake at Magnolia Bakery, go for popcorn and a movie at the AMC Dine-In Theatre, or play a round of golf at Five Iron Golf. 32 | CONCIERGE PREFERRED
Primark Irish retailer Primark landed in the Loop during strange times, but their iconic blue lighting and wonderful presence along State Street has been a welcome sight for workers, tourists and locals in the Loop. Stop in for trendy pieces for date night, working out, or any day in Chicago.
Uniqlo Japanese fast fashion retailer Uniqlo opened on State Street in 2019, and provides the best basics for your everyday wardrobe. We’ve even been known to stop in for a quick fix to a major wardrobe malfunction.
Crocs Since 2002 Crocs, Inc. has sold more than 300 million pairs in over 90 countries. The State Street store does not have millions of these classic clogs to choose from, but it must be hundreds, at least!
THE LAST
WORD
420 IN CHICAGO HOW TO CELEBRATE AND EDUCATE YOURSELF By Leentje De Leeuw
420 is not only slang for marijuana, it also refers to the (unofficial) holiday that marijuana enthusiasts celebrate on April 20th. The Origin of 420 420 can be traced back to five Californian high school students in 1971. The group used to meet after school, at 4:20 pm, to go look for an abandoned cannabis crop they found on a treasure map. 4:20 became the code name for their -failed- mission and has become slang for anything marijuana related since. April 20th became the unofficial holiday for marijuana fans across the country.
Celebrating 420 in Chicago Especially since recreational use of marijuana became legal in Illinois, many festivities are being organized across the city during the week of April 20th. Some fun events include the 420 Comedy Show in Bridgeport, Smokus Pocus, A 420 Magic Show at the Newport Theater, and more. Check out Eventbrite for more 420 fun events and tickets.
Educate Before You Celebrate Before you start celebrating -especially if everything is still new to you- make sure you ask as many questions as you want at one of the Chicagoland dispensaries. Before we got our party gear, we spoke to one of the experts at Curaleaf, known for well-educated staff and a clean, comfortable shopping experience. Curaleaf currently operates in 23 states with 127 dispensaries, including ten in Illinois. Plenty of options to get educated before you start celebrating with the greens of your choice.
Happy 420! LEGAL: MARIJUANA IN ILLINOIS
On January 20th, 2020 Illinois became the eleventh state in the US to legalize recreational marijuana. This means cannabis in Illinois is legal for both medical and recreational use for people aged 21 and over. APRIL-MAY 2022 ISSUE | 33
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