After looking through our list of picnic spots in Chicago, pick up some prepared food and drink from these convenient locations. Eataly Made-in-Italy salumi, cheese and snacks are the star of the market at Eataly, a gourmet Italian food chain located in River North. Its proximity to Millennium Park, Lakeshore East Park and Navy Pier… Read more »
Sunday, May 11, 2025 is Mother’s Day, and Chicago has no shortage of opportunities for brunches and other mom-honoring activities. Toast to the special women in your life with a Mother’s Day brunch at these restaurants and venues. Lirica Lirica has crafted indulgent specials in honor of mom thanks to executive chef Ricky Amaya. The… Read more »
Wine bars can intimidate novices by giving off an air of pretension. But Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar counters that with an inclusive and accessible approach for all. For sure, the corner restaurant is intimate and sparsely lit, but the atmosphere is casual and inviting, with exposed brick and plush light blue seat backs along… Read more »
Because of our deep-dish pizza, hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago doesn’t have the greatest reputation for healthy eating. But the reality is that health-conscious people, including vegetarians and vegans, can find delicious meals all over the city. Below are our favorites. Beatrix Craft Your Plate: With four restaurants throughout downtown, Beatrix has an… Read more »
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1962 against overwhelming odds. May 5 was celebrated a year later in Mexico and Los Angeles, where the U.S. and Mexican flags flew alongside each other at a parade. Although it has since declined in popularity in Mexico,… Read more »
Even with its famously temperamental weather, outdoor dining in Chicago doesn’t have to be complicated. These restaurants offer dinner — and brunch, and lunch, and drinks — with a scenic view of the city’s natural and man-made beauty. OFFSHORE ROOFTOP Spectacular Vista: The world’s largest rooftop bar at more than 52,000 sq. ft., Navy Pier’s… Read more »
Two years ago, Lawrence Kreymer, manager of Chicago Waffles was making his first appearance on Steve Dale’s Other World on WGN Radio to promote National Waffle Day. Dale opened by saying he tried to get “The King of Waffles,” but they sent his son instead. Right then and there, Dale dubbed Kreymer, “The Prince of… Read more »
Unlike Easter egg hunting, you don’t have to scour for holiday specials in Chicago. These restaurants offer limited-time menus, both for Easter brunch on April 20 and throughout the weekend. I|O GODFREY The Easter Bunny will pay a special visit to brunch at the River North rooftop restaurant I|O Godfrey. Between participating in an Easter… Read more »
Of all the new spots in Wrigleyville, the newest is Stolen Saddle. The country-themed concept on Clark St. a block south of Wrigley Field had its grand opening last week, coinciding neatly with the Chicago Cubs’ home opener. Step inside the three-level, 16,000-square-foot restaurant and you may think you’re on Nashville’s famed Lower Broadway instead… Read more »
People come to Chicago from all corners of the globe to sample our famous deep-dish pizza. But its success has created a perception that it’s the only type of pie to be found. However, you can get virtually every regional variety of pizza — and a few other local creations — all over town. Pizano’s… Read more »
Chicago has more than 20 beaches with ample space for swimming, sports and soaking in the sun. The beach season runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, so enjoy the warm weather while it lasts. North Avenue Beach The broad scope of Lincoln Park includes North Avenue Beach, a zig-zagging beach adjacent… Read more »
With warmer weather returning to Chicago, it’s time to take advantage of the city’s blooming gardens and parks. Grab some food to go and check out these green community spaces for the perfect place to picnic. Maggie Daley Park From Millennium Park, take the BP Bridge across Columbus Dr. to Maggie Daley Park. There, you’ll… Read more »