Logan Square
Having been a resident, The Gwen’s chef concierge Ramon Gomez is a huge fan. The perfect mix of urban and residential, he recommends bouncing into Lula Cafe for their Pasta YiaYia, a divine creation that’s drenched in browned butter and strewn with crumbled feta, crispy browned garlic, and then sprinkled with cinnamon (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it). He also says they have the best salmon and bagel plate in town. After, he recommends popping into the Rocking Horse for a craft beer or whiskey before taking in a flick at the Logan Theater.
ANDERSONVILLE
For corporate concierge Jonathan Rettemnier it’s about walking around Andersonville in the fall. He suggests making a day of it and popping into the shops along Clark Street while sipping a warm latte and eating a yummy treat from A Taste of Heaven bakery. End your excursion by stopping into Hopleaf who he says, without a doubt, is the best spot in the neighborhood for a beer. “They’ve got creative Belgian inspired fare that pairs perfectly with their massive beer list,” he says. “I recommend the Duck Reuben paired with a Bosteels Pauwel Kwak beer.” Hotel Palomar concierge Mark Kraemer is also a fan, as there’s a bit of everything for everyone. Graphic novel fans will adore AlleyCat Comics while looking for vintage goods and home decor will love Brown Elephant Resale Shop and Woolly Mammoth Antiques & Oddities. For those that want a taste of this charming neighborhood’s Swedish origins, make sure to visit the Swedish American Museum or the family-owned Svea Restaurant and Prohibition-era Simon’s Tavern, all of which keep Andersonville’s charming ethnic heritage relevant.
HYDE PARK
Timothy Myers, concierge at the Embassy Suites Lakefront, says he’s been particularly interested in Hyde Park as of late. And for good reason. This South Side treasure played host to the World’s Columbian Exposition back in 1893 and today is chock-full of beautiful parks, museums, galleries, and more. Where else can you walk through a Japanese garden, see a Frank Lloyd Wright house, and then take in a view of the Chicago skyline? While there, can’t-miss places include the Museum of Science & Industry, the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Favorite exhibits include the U-505 German submarine and the baby chick hatchery—one of the museum’s most beloved experiences. Corporate concierge Rachel Luckett says you need to check out Promontory Point, the peninsula designed by Prairie School landscape architect Alfred Caldwell, where you’ll get a unique view of the city. She recommends experiencing it at sunset followed by dinner, drinks, and live music at The Promontory.