Known as the “Gateway to Chicago,” Jefferson Park straddles blue-collar sensibility and urban cosmopolitanism with flair. Where else can you find the Euro-style clubbing, stick-to-your-ribs Polish comfort food and cozy cafes all in one place? Savor Milwaukee Avenue's flavorful brew of bust-a-gut restaurants and go bowling to work off those pierogis.
A village within the city, Roscoe Village may appear to be a quiet little neighborhood, but looks can be deceiving. Past the tree-shaded sidewalks lies a myriad of unique shops, neighborhood watering holes and dining gems. Quirky is key in this hipster haven where residents and shop-owners march to their own beats. From kitschy to classy, Roscoe Village has it all.
Whether you've been prepping for the 26.2-mile hell known as the Chicago Marathon, or you're just planning on cheering for six hours straight, you're going to need carbs galore to get you through. Pappardelle, gnocchi, ravioli, bring them on; this is one time it's OK pile your plate high. We show you the city's best sources for carb-loading.
Boystown should be self-explanatory, but as both straight and gay businesses--from boutiques to pick-up bars--open at a rate faster than most neighborhoods, sorting through the jumble can be daunting. And a blast.
Retreat from the Chicago street into these contemporary spas that offer ancient bathing rituals. From the Turkish to the French, these diverse baths, showers and saunas are a great way to prepare for any season or occasion - not to mention leave your skin with a dewy, youthful glow.
With all the nightlife hype leaning towards celeb DJs and outlandish sound systems, it's easy to forget about the less flashy rock and roll bars. Here are Chicago's authentic stops, and some that at least nail the look. Either way, rock is on the ticket.
One of the city's most iconic neighborhoods, Uptown Chicago continues its rich tradition as an entertainment district to this day. Whether you visit Jazz Age venues such as the Riviera Theater and the Aragon Ballroom or hop from restaurant to nightclub, you'll fall in love with this piece of the city's history.
Chicagoans don't need an excuse to drink beer, but Oktoberfest certainly offers a good one. Fortunately, there's no shortage of authentic bar and restaurants to chug German brews, down brats and catch an authentic oompa band--with or without the lederhosen.
With more than 70 wineries in Illinois--several with enticing bed and breakfasts--a trip to wine country is a must. From Chambourcin to Chardonnay, savor the grapes at their peak as you discover the enticements of the state's top wineries and vineyards.
Forget the ubiquitous Chinese egg rolls and try something different, the Filipino lumpia. As deep-fried appetizers go, the mini cigar-shaped, ground pork-stuffed rolls are about as addictive as they come. Buy them in bulk or enjoy them as starters at these five Filipino restaurants and grocers around Chicago. Trust us. You won't be able to eat just one.
With working class roots, a growing Latino population and timeless eateries, McKinley Park is a straight-up slice of no-frills Chicago. Get inspired at the tranquil park or sink your teeth into diner grub and south-of-the-border fare. You'll wonder what took you so long to find this south-side treasure.
The scorched patch of urban moonscape just south of the mighty Loop is suddenly populated with restaurants, bars, and--get this--boutiques. What's next, frou-frou wine shops? Oh, wait, there's one of those, too.
Everyone is budget-crunched these days (or at least trying to conserve cash). The good news: The city abounds with thought-provoking public art--much of it under-the-radar--that can be enjoyed without spending a dime. So, the next time you’re looking to fill your culture quotient, skip the Picasso and check out these eight historical beauties, all by Chicago artists.
Here's the usual scenario: By the time autumn rolls around all the pieces needed to brave the cooler temps have been snatched by those savvy enough to start planning in August. Seize the chance this year with this snapshot of fall fashion '08--edited by Chicago's most stylish store owners and staff.
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Photo credit: Nu Collective Ruffle Top courtesy of Nu Collective
