Chicago: Straight Up

James McManus was assigned by Harper's Magazine to cover the simultaneous stories of the Ted Binion murder trial and the World Series of Poker held in Las Vegas. McManus signed up as a contestant and played so well that he wound up at the final table. Afterward, McManus wrote the best-selling novel Positively Fifth Street. A novelist, essayist, and poet McManus outlines how he'd spend his ideal day in his hometown.

Heather Terhune, Executive Chef of Atwood Café/South Water Kitchen shares her recipe for Lobster Bouillabaisse Pot Pie

1 (1- to 1 1/4-lb) live lobster
2 large tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb boiling potatoes
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh fennel fronds
1 bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon crumbled saffron threads
11/2 tablespoons coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
9 cups chicken stock or canned chicken broth
1 pound mussels and 1 pound clams
3 lb mixed skinned white fish fillets (such as monkfish, red snapper, striped bass, or cod), cut into 2-inch pieces

Here's a round up of Chicago's late, late night bars for those times when last call just isn't enough for you.

In Chicago's "Little Italy" or Taylor Street neighborhood, the Italian influence is still strong. If you're staying in the Loop (an easy cab ride away), the area makes a good destination for dinner.

Here's a look at a few theatrical gems—all of which are worth a gander. So get out and see something or give someone an early holiday gift of tickets to a show. It's far better than fruitcake. Oh, and I've laced the eggnog with some non-seasonal fare, kind of like Chinese take-out after several days of holiday leftovers. (See if you can spot the egg rolls.)

You've seen Millennium Park, ventured into the Field Museum, and shopped up and down the Mag Mile all afternoon. With some dinner in your belly and the sun down, it's time to really hit the town.

Whether you have 25 shopping days left until Christmas or are browsing sale racks, Chicago has an abundance of worthy shopping excursions. From world-class department stores to eclectic gift shops, Chicago concierges listed their favorites—here's what they suggest.

Bored with the usual pizza-taco-burger routine? Head to these ethnic spots and skip the mundane menus.

Whether it be antiques you are looking for, lampshades, beds, carpets or draperies, Chicago has something for everyone. Here's a look at the best home furnishing stores around town.