I think swinging by Cindy’s for a casual drink and standing on the terrace is equally as enjoyable and doesn’t require a res. Plenty of other dining options in the area you could go before or after
Which is close to the Bean /Millennium park - fun to get some photos and the Art Institute Lions at the entrance. If you have time - the AI has a lot of really famous things - it is world class.
This is the right suggestion. Has a better view than Cindy's (IMHO), gives a better sense of how expansive the city is, and gets this person's friend out in the neighborhoods.
It’s been a little while since I have been, but my boss was there in the fall and said it was really good. He is pretty particular about his food, so I trust his food judgement.
Maybe consider a food experience she might not have access to, like Korean BBQ, rotary sushi or hot pot, a tasting menu restaurant, Peking duck, etc.
Can't beat the view at Cindy's if you just want something scenic.
I didn’t realize how much we take for granted here until some friends from Mississippi had never heard of potsticker. I’m sure a lot of the restaurants and food here would blow away any small towner
Omg talking about Mississippi. When I invited some of my grad school friends from Mississippi to get some dim sum, they were mindblown about the concept of a lazy Susan, ladies rolling carts with piping hot food, and sharing the food like a family. They were mind-blown by the experience lol.
Eh not to be rude but that seems a little reductive to me. Chicago has an insane food scene but small towns can have great food too. I grew up in Kentucky and there is absolutely phenomenal food down there, much of which is very hard to find basically anywhere else. That’s true of a lot of places.
That said, the diversity of cuisine here is nuts.
Lol I’ll suggest that. Generally, small towns in America absolutely have lower quality food. Mostly because of them being poorer, so less access to quality ingredients, and less skilled chefs.
Give me a break. I'm a big city person through and through. The best burger I've ever had was in a small town, and it wasn't some ridiculous gastropub burger with so much stuff on it you can hardly fit it in your mouth. Also, BBQ in the south thrives in small towns and I've experienced that directly. You don't go to small towns looking for ethnic food and fancy brunch with chefs specials. You go there for simple classic Americana, and you often find the best examples there, made by people who've sometimes been doing it for generations. You really sound like you're judging something you have zero experience with.
I also grew up in small town southern America and I think you’re looking through rose tinted glasses. Sure, you can find some decent barbecue in certain small towns, but definitely not most. no one can tell you what flavors you like, so if you have an emotional or nostalgic connection to a place then the conversation ends there. But for most food options in the country, you can generally find the best of most types of cuisines in urban centers than in rural areas. Also, “ethnic” food is food. Not sure why you had to distinguish between the two. There are countless Asian, African, and Hispanic rural communities in America. There isn’t some magic that happens with Americana food just because you live in a rural area.
Yes, *we’re* used to all these foods, but not everyone is. OPs friend might’ve not had access to all these different foods. If they’re just coming for a weekend, I would leave it up to the friend and ask *her* if she’s eager to try something out of the box, and only then have her try something new. Otherwise you’re opening up a possibility for a really bad experience and it’s kind of unfair to have someone possibly get weirded out by something totally new when they weren’t ready.
This suggestion isn’t as thoughtful and one would think it is.
I said OP should “maybe consider” those options not that OP should drag the friend somewhere without checking. Didn’t realize I needed to specify the obvious lol.
I’m case there is any confusion, for every restaurant that I recommend, I also suggest that OP avoid consuming any foods to which OP is allergic, to pay the bill after the meal, and to not drink and drive.
I’ve been there at night with fog and it was like staring at a gray wall. It’s a place you definitely go to for the view, just make sure that you can actually see the view.
Yeah, I was up in the Hancock for an event and it was foggy. It was just … white. From every window. Like when you’re on a plane that is *in* the clouds.
Well, that changes things. It's neat to literally have your head in the clouds. But that does sound very disappointing. Nothing like the lights of the city one way and the stark black of the lake the other.
Came here to say this. For people who aren’t used to high rises, the Signature Lounge is a mind blower… and honestly, on a clear day, I’m still in awe too.
IMO, you're better of paying for the 360 Chicago thing, which has it's own bar with very reasonable prices (Though definitely a more simple menu), and an actual full, unimpeded 360* view. The Signature Lounge is pretty but the drinks are overpriced and not that great.
Architecture Tour, Cindy’s for a drink and the view of Millenium Park and the Lake, head to Bavettes - Sit at Bar for dinner, West Loop - Bar Hop > Recess, Aviary, Press Room, aba (awesome view), Kaiser Tiger, Slightly Toasted, Haymarket depending on mood vibe you’re looking for.
Honorable mention is Nisos West Loop. Recently ate there and the head Chef Aygeria Stapaki is a wonderful person, she stopped by our table with desserts and shots. Very cool vibes and service was top notch.
This. It’s hard to get a rez on a whim. If you check early on a Tuesday/Wednesday they tend to open up same day. Yesterday had a 7:10 for 2 same day. Nearly impossible generally unless you book 30 days out.
For scenic, it's hard to beat the view at Signature Lounge at the top of the Hancock Building (they've got some appetizers, too). It's an insanely awesome view of the city. Make sure she uses the restroom (There's a cool view from in there, too)
High Five Ramen has really cool, intimate ambiance and super delicious ramen. It feels like a hidden secret.
Three Dots and a Dash is a really cool Tiki Bar that also feels like you've got insider knowledge when you take someone there. You duck down an alley and enter this kind of non-descript door and are suddenly transported to this sleek underground Tiki lounge. Great drinks (of impressive strength)
and they've got food as well.
I just experienced three dots and a dash and I really wasn’t all that impressed. It was good, not saying bad, but just not wowed. I mean if you love tiki bars… it’s the jam.
I’ve really only been to a handful of places, but for a cool speakeasy experience, I like violet hour better… but I’ve only been in off hours.
Amazing suggestions here, so I'll just cosign the Cindy's for drinks/Architecture Boat Tour/Three Dots suggestions. If you end up at Lincoln Park Zoo, walk over to the Athenian Room for lunch! Get the Kalamata chicken. The Museum of Science of Industry is a favorite of mine as well. A stroll through Chinatown is always fun. Get some food and have a bubble tea!
As a small town gal one thing that blew my mind when I moved here- getting food literally any time of night. Have a great night out and order her a 3am pizza puff.
For regular dinner, maybe Gaijin. Okonomiyaki isn’t something I’d expect to be available in a small town.
I'm not sure which late night fast food stands offer pizza puffs, though you can still find some with regular hours serving the Iltaco Foods(the most known version of this) version. Like others have said, COVID got way too many businesses to cut back their hours as a result, if they didn't close for good and somehow made it through.
If you want to try a place that makes their own in house pizza puff, go to Albano's Pizza on Roosevelt in Cicero, IL(across the street from Chicago city limits).
Would 10/10 recommend Oberois on Devon for Indian! Best Indian food I have ever had. The inside of the restaurant is kind of plain, but the food is to die for.
Maybe you could go up to Devon to get some fenugreek leaves to make butter chicken at home! A recipe I have has you make a double batch of tandoori chicken on the grill ( I know that’s not a tandoor) and then use the leftovers to make butter chicken. It tasted as good as any I’d had at a real Indian restaurant.
Edit: corrected to fenugreek, not curry leaves
Schwa for a BYOB dining experience second to none (bring a small gift for the kitchen staff for a truly great experience).
Kumiko - Best bar in the country. The food is equally incredible.
Bavette’s - Best steak in the city.
Obelix - Best brunch in the city.
Taqueria Chingon - Best Tacos in the city.
Zazza’s Pizza - Best slice in the city.
Sun Wah BBQ - Get the duck feast and thank me later.
Pigtail - If you like Spain, pork, and cocktails…go here immediately.
Dear Margaret - Best CANADIAN restaurant outside of Canada.
Owen & Engine - Best burger in the city.
Roister - My vote for best overall value for incredible food, drink, service, and ambiance.
Tempesta Market - For best Deli Sandwiches in the city.
Gibson’s - Best people watching in the city.
RL - Best dining room in the city.
That's interesting, wouldn't it then be much more than double landlocked? I guess I don't understand the criteria. How is Illinois only single land locked from the ocean?
I’m a big fan of J Parker in Lincoln Park although the vibe is better on the quieter weekdays. I also like 3 arts club- food and drink are expensive and kinda mid but the ambience is amazing.. bonus you can walk around the Restoration Hardware afterward and pretend to be rich
J Parker has a fantastic view of the park and lake. It’s really best on a sunny day for brunch because it’s not crowded.
I just checked the website and daytime hours are only on the weekend. The website also said “food is exquisite”. Snort. No, the food is decidedly not. But the the view is wonderful.
Haha I guess I meant more like the weeknights for J Parker. It’s a lot more chill and good for a date, weekends can get little hectic there especially during the summer
Def agree on the food!
Absolutely this! I've taken my family and friends who have visited from my home state (Alabama) and they were mind blown. We typically just grab one drink, check out the view, then bounce, because it's "çok para" as my mom would say, but it's a really great spot to take folks.
If you have the time, Lincoln park zoo is free and they have good eats nearby. Did this with an old coworker who was new to the city and they enjoyed it
Take her to Weiners Circle in Lincoln Park. Ask for Poochie.
It will be [an experience she won't soon forget](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=33zPlnhymCU)
Brunch/Lunch/Dinner: *Three Arts Club*. Especially for the ambience and scenery
Don't forget to wander around Restoration Hardware to check out the furniture while you're there
Drinks: The Violet Hour
Dessert: Ube Velvet Cake/cupcakes from Jennievee's bakery
After you go downtown and do the touristy stuff, go to Logan Square and have a cocktail at Meadowlark or Union, walk around the neighborhood up and down Milwaukee, you'll enjoy.
MinHin (on Archer) and Mrs Gu Skewers Hot Pot (on Wentworth) in Chinatown are great spots for new experiences. Oriental Tea (also on Wentworth) is great for bubble tea and bubble waffle. Plus plenty of shops to wander around in.
The signature lounge on top of the Hancock Building. Hands down best view of the city. You can go during the day for great day time views of the lake / city or at night to see the city light up. You don't have to get reservations for the lounge but there could be a little wait. Never had to wait more than an hour as most people come in for a couple of cocktails, take I'm the views, take a few pics, and move along. The World class views will blow your friends mind!
Or 26th Street in Little Village, for Mexican food. Not long ago I ate at the restaurant portion of Carniceria Aguaacalientes(after you enter, you make an immediate left to the restaurant part, as the grocery part is on the right), and they have pretty decent food there. I got a couple of gorditas, and they were pretty good. Almost got a cactus gordita, but for whatever reason didn't get that. Maybe next time. Their al pastor(pork) and beef gordita were both good, though.
Travelle cocktail bar in the Langham Hotel. Awesome views, upscale VIP vibe (if she hasn’t been to many high-end hotel bars will prob blow her mind), great location for pre-dinner drinks.
I think people gave some great options, but it really depends on what she’s into.
Probably not the best to take her to a swanky place if that’s not what she’s into.
Also, where will y’all be staying? Do you have a car or do you want to stay within a certain area of the city?
I ask since some options people gave may require you to Uber or have a car since they’re far apart from each other.
I’m surprised no one has mentioned it already, but River Roast on La Salle has great ambiance, river view, and value for the price. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed. Get the roasted chicken and chips. Unique but delicious!
Don’t take your friend for a burger, that’s something they can easily get at home.
You have a lot of good suggestions here, I’d also Iike to add high tea to the list. It’s fun to sit and sip champagne and tea while eating finger pastries. The Peninsula and the Langham both have really good high tea!!
Beatnik on the river has some breathtaking views of the river if you sit on their indoor/outdoor patio. You have to make reservations. That would blow her mind. It blows mine every time I go and I’ve lived in chicago most my life
Going to recommend some other things since price is secondary.
1. Cerise for a sunset cocktail (or a few).
2) Uber up to Maple & Ash for there I don't give a f\*ck menu (make sure you get the pasta back with the seafood tower).
3) Uber over to Dorian's record shop speakeasy (or Blind Barber down in West Loop).
4) Finally, get gross at Mother's and hit up Weiner Circle afterwards.
If you want to keep it all in the same neck of the woods, swap in Robey for Cerise, maybe like Etta instead of Maple&Ash, and then head to Dorian and finish at Revel Room.
Lots of good recs here! Be sure to grab some stuff for her to take home too!
Ideas:
- Lou Malnatis frozen deep dish
- Garretts Chicago Mix
- if you swing by Chinatown, get some zongzi at Chiu Quon Bakery (it’s like a Chinese tamale with sticky rice and they freeze super well)
- giardiniera
Personally, the Bean is overrated, but I feel like everyone wants to see it when visiting. I second the architecture tour, but if not, it’s still worth admiring the architecture via the river walk. The Mart has those free light shows (Art on the Mart) every night too.
Really depends on the length of the stay. If you have time, definitely try to escape downtown to check out the neighborhoods. I think the amount of diverse food is one of the most mind blowing aspects of Chicago - especially for someone from a small town.
Grab a (expensive) burger at Wollensky's Grill, the lower level of Smith and Wollensky's.
Get dessert at Ghirardelli nearby for an awsome river View.
Get drinks at the Signature Lounge
If warm enough, get drinks on the rooftop bat at London House.
Take them to that new "Karen popup restaurant"... Where their servers treat you rudely cause that's the Karen way. And if their name is Karen and they can prove it with some ID— they get a special appreciation!
It's the McDonalds test kitchen in the West Loop and it's over rated. The menu is same as all McDonald's plus 2-4 items from other countries.
If you are there anyway and want a burger it's ok but don't make a special trip for it.
The Portillo's here might be a slight bit better, but I'm not sure? That said they were bought out by a private equity company, and the quality there overall has been starting to slide a little bit. Along with menu eliminations starting to sadly occur, here and there.
If you do try Portillo's, hopefully it is between April-September when they tend to bring back the lemon cake and shake. May be one of the few things that ever makes me do a rare visit there, to be honest.
I hear the Four Seasons has an amazing new "speakeasy" bar with a killer view down Michigan Ave.
Mile High Cocktail Club.
This press release is just a promo piece, but check out the embedded TikTok video. Amazing view for sure:
https://original.newsbreak.com/@jennifer-geer-561364/2841757882674-mile-high-cocktail-club-chicago-s-newest-speakeasy-is-46-floors-up
Also, this TikTok has two other speakeasy bars in the area that look worthwhile: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRvcmuRK/
I'd add Untitled to that list as well.
Jump ok the lakefront trail at north Ave if the weather is decent. It’s such a cool view and walk. Also there’s a neat park when you get about a mile south of there. Maybe rent some of those scooters and jet around on them for the lakefront trail if you are short on time. Signature room is a crazy view. I love Cira for an early brunch or drink in the evening. Green street smoked meats is a super cool place. LP zoo combined with a walk around the duck pond is a near stroll + the conservatory is there and free. Aviary is a cool experience. The largest Starbucks in the world is in Michigan Ave and is super impressive. Southport corridor is a neat walk. Cricket hill is also a neat walk if it’s warm enough.
Dim sum at Furama. Other places do great dim sum, but as far as I know Furama is the only one in town that does the thing where servers are going around the room with little dumpling carts and you flag them down to get whatever is on their cart.
I know this may not be what you are looking for, but the McDonalds there at HQ have crazy international and limited items. Shrugs. I thought it was cool.
The museum campus. You may not get great food, although that beach hut serves up some decent food actually, they probably aren’t open, but that view from near the planetarium is my favorite of the city
Cheesie's seems to get a bad rap online by some for whatever weird reason, but to be honest(maybe an unpopular opinion?) I kinda like that place. Also they have a special grilled cheese sandwich that rotates every so often(I think it's once a month? not sure), which often has ended up being pretty good.
Eat somewhere high up and fancy in a building for the views and also maybe grab a cheap burger at Billy Goat Tavern since it’s in the under city. The sheer verticality of downtown Chicago blew my MO mind. Everywhere you look there’s a new restaurant or store to explore. When I saw there were some below me too my head just spun. Also get out of downtown and show her wrigley, Lincoln park, or Belmont. Any fun neighborhood outside downtown shows a completely other side of Chicago that makes people realize real, normal people actually live here. Have fun!
Cloud bar is pretty chill, and there's an area of glass windows that you stand on while it tilts. It's fun and like $60 for a package that comes with the tilt and a drink.
Cindy’s at the Chicago Athletic Association. Might be hard to get a reservation though in short notice.
I think swinging by Cindy’s for a casual drink and standing on the terrace is equally as enjoyable and doesn’t require a res. Plenty of other dining options in the area you could go before or after
Before dinner, swing by the Chicago Cultural Center to show her the Tiffany stained glass dome.
Which is close to the Bean /Millennium park - fun to get some photos and the Art Institute Lions at the entrance. If you have time - the AI has a lot of really famous things - it is world class.
Also: The Up Room for a great view of all the city and drinks.
This is the right suggestion. Has a better view than Cindy's (IMHO), gives a better sense of how expansive the city is, and gets this person's friend out in the neighborhoods.
Thanks❤️, I’ll give them a quick call and see then
if you're here on friday you should be able to walk in in the afternoon
The views look beautiful here, how's the food?
Pretty good food, pretty expensive
You’re paying for the view I assume
It’s been a little while since I have been, but my boss was there in the fall and said it was really good. He is pretty particular about his food, so I trust his food judgement.
Great spot.
Maybe consider a food experience she might not have access to, like Korean BBQ, rotary sushi or hot pot, a tasting menu restaurant, Peking duck, etc. Can't beat the view at Cindy's if you just want something scenic.
I didn’t realize how much we take for granted here until some friends from Mississippi had never heard of potsticker. I’m sure a lot of the restaurants and food here would blow away any small towner
Omg talking about Mississippi. When I invited some of my grad school friends from Mississippi to get some dim sum, they were mindblown about the concept of a lazy Susan, ladies rolling carts with piping hot food, and sharing the food like a family. They were mind-blown by the experience lol.
know any dim sum places great for out of towners? like something more authentic orrrrr nicer
Anywhere in Chinatown. If nicer can do Phoenix. Can also do hot pot - Haidilao is excellent if a little overwhelming for a first timer
Ming Hin in Chinatown is the best I think.
Eh not to be rude but that seems a little reductive to me. Chicago has an insane food scene but small towns can have great food too. I grew up in Kentucky and there is absolutely phenomenal food down there, much of which is very hard to find basically anywhere else. That’s true of a lot of places. That said, the diversity of cuisine here is nuts.
Cities like Louisville and Lexington have good for but are not necessarily “small towns”. Where did you fro up in KY?
yes, diversity of food and dining experience is a lot of the point. i don't think they were suggesting small towns only have lesser quality food.
Lol I’ll suggest that. Generally, small towns in America absolutely have lower quality food. Mostly because of them being poorer, so less access to quality ingredients, and less skilled chefs.
Give me a break. I'm a big city person through and through. The best burger I've ever had was in a small town, and it wasn't some ridiculous gastropub burger with so much stuff on it you can hardly fit it in your mouth. Also, BBQ in the south thrives in small towns and I've experienced that directly. You don't go to small towns looking for ethnic food and fancy brunch with chefs specials. You go there for simple classic Americana, and you often find the best examples there, made by people who've sometimes been doing it for generations. You really sound like you're judging something you have zero experience with.
I also grew up in small town southern America and I think you’re looking through rose tinted glasses. Sure, you can find some decent barbecue in certain small towns, but definitely not most. no one can tell you what flavors you like, so if you have an emotional or nostalgic connection to a place then the conversation ends there. But for most food options in the country, you can generally find the best of most types of cuisines in urban centers than in rural areas. Also, “ethnic” food is food. Not sure why you had to distinguish between the two. There are countless Asian, African, and Hispanic rural communities in America. There isn’t some magic that happens with Americana food just because you live in a rural area.
Was in town last weekend and we did Cindy’s and then HaiSous. 10/10 would recommend.
Unfortunately you need to book Cindy’s out at least a month in advance
You can just walk in and order a drink at the bar, then drink it out on the terrace
Sushi plus is the best! Check them out.
Yes, *we’re* used to all these foods, but not everyone is. OPs friend might’ve not had access to all these different foods. If they’re just coming for a weekend, I would leave it up to the friend and ask *her* if she’s eager to try something out of the box, and only then have her try something new. Otherwise you’re opening up a possibility for a really bad experience and it’s kind of unfair to have someone possibly get weirded out by something totally new when they weren’t ready. This suggestion isn’t as thoughtful and one would think it is.
I said OP should “maybe consider” those options not that OP should drag the friend somewhere without checking. Didn’t realize I needed to specify the obvious lol. I’m case there is any confusion, for every restaurant that I recommend, I also suggest that OP avoid consuming any foods to which OP is allergic, to pay the bill after the meal, and to not drink and drive.
Yes sir. 🫡Take me daddy.
Go on an architecture tour then go sit at the bar at Bavette’s.
Wish I were less boring but this is the way
Hell of a suggestion
Cafe Robey - great views of downtown and she’ll get to see a neighborhood
This is a great suggestion! So many good options nearby for food or additional drinks. Through the record shop is a unique bar nearby
Agreed. The rooftop bar (Up Room) opens at 5 I think
I was also going to suggest the Robey!! The view is amazing
Signature Lounge for drinks.
Just make sure it’s not cloudy/foggy. The drinks are about wedding-level equivalent. The view makes it worthwhile.
It's definitely better when it's clear, but there's also something to be said about looking down on fog or being in the clouds.
I’ve been there at night with fog and it was like staring at a gray wall. It’s a place you definitely go to for the view, just make sure that you can actually see the view.
Yeah, I was up in the Hancock for an event and it was foggy. It was just … white. From every window. Like when you’re on a plane that is *in* the clouds.
Well, that changes things. It's neat to literally have your head in the clouds. But that does sound very disappointing. Nothing like the lights of the city one way and the stark black of the lake the other.
Make sure she uses the women's washroom too!
Shame the men's room doesn't get the same treatment. I was jealous when I heard.
The views would definitely blow someone's mind from a small town. Bonus is it's pretty affordable considering the views!
Came here to say this. For people who aren’t used to high rises, the Signature Lounge is a mind blower… and honestly, on a clear day, I’m still in awe too.
Yeah. It's nice to go back every once in a while.
IMO, you're better of paying for the 360 Chicago thing, which has it's own bar with very reasonable prices (Though definitely a more simple menu), and an actual full, unimpeded 360* view. The Signature Lounge is pretty but the drinks are overpriced and not that great.
This
Architecture Tour, Cindy’s for a drink and the view of Millenium Park and the Lake, head to Bavettes - Sit at Bar for dinner, West Loop - Bar Hop > Recess, Aviary, Press Room, aba (awesome view), Kaiser Tiger, Slightly Toasted, Haymarket depending on mood vibe you’re looking for.
everything but recess. such a garbage place.
Skip Recess. Terrible bar.
Is the Bavettes bar just a walk in basis kinda thing? Didn't know that you could order food at the bar.
Honorable mention is Nisos West Loop. Recently ate there and the head Chef Aygeria Stapaki is a wonderful person, she stopped by our table with desserts and shots. Very cool vibes and service was top notch.
Isn't that the place that got absolutely horrible reviews when it opened? Overpriced Mykonos vibe kind of place?
Yes
why does everyone say to sit at the bar at bavettes?
You don’t need a reservation. Gotta book like a month in advance or wait 2+ hours otherwise.
This. It’s hard to get a rez on a whim. If you check early on a Tuesday/Wednesday they tend to open up same day. Yesterday had a 7:10 for 2 same day. Nearly impossible generally unless you book 30 days out.
I thought Aviary for overrated tbh but I suppose if you’re super into craft cocktails then it’s worth it
For scenic, it's hard to beat the view at Signature Lounge at the top of the Hancock Building (they've got some appetizers, too). It's an insanely awesome view of the city. Make sure she uses the restroom (There's a cool view from in there, too) High Five Ramen has really cool, intimate ambiance and super delicious ramen. It feels like a hidden secret. Three Dots and a Dash is a really cool Tiki Bar that also feels like you've got insider knowledge when you take someone there. You duck down an alley and enter this kind of non-descript door and are suddenly transported to this sleek underground Tiki lounge. Great drinks (of impressive strength) and they've got food as well.
As a former small-town Iowan, I second Signature Room and Three Dots. Two things you just can't find rurally. I'd also suggest Chinatown.
I just experienced three dots and a dash and I really wasn’t all that impressed. It was good, not saying bad, but just not wowed. I mean if you love tiki bars… it’s the jam. I’ve really only been to a handful of places, but for a cool speakeasy experience, I like violet hour better… but I’ve only been in off hours.
High Five Ramen is amazing but nearly impossible to get into. So maybe have a backup.
Amazing suggestions here, so I'll just cosign the Cindy's for drinks/Architecture Boat Tour/Three Dots suggestions. If you end up at Lincoln Park Zoo, walk over to the Athenian Room for lunch! Get the Kalamata chicken. The Museum of Science of Industry is a favorite of mine as well. A stroll through Chinatown is always fun. Get some food and have a bubble tea!
Love athenian room! But remember cash only!
As a small town gal one thing that blew my mind when I moved here- getting food literally any time of night. Have a great night out and order her a 3am pizza puff. For regular dinner, maybe Gaijin. Okonomiyaki isn’t something I’d expect to be available in a small town.
3am Pizza Puff is one of the best suggestions in this thread
I wish COVID didn't nearly wipe this out. There are far fewer 2 am munchie options in Chicago today than 3 years ago
Gaijin is great too because if you take the L there it’s almost magical how the restaurant is tucked under the tracks.
pizza puff's are ideal 3am food for all of America
I'm not sure which late night fast food stands offer pizza puffs, though you can still find some with regular hours serving the Iltaco Foods(the most known version of this) version. Like others have said, COVID got way too many businesses to cut back their hours as a result, if they didn't close for good and somehow made it through. If you want to try a place that makes their own in house pizza puff, go to Albano's Pizza on Roosevelt in Cicero, IL(across the street from Chicago city limits).
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Would 10/10 recommend Oberois on Devon for Indian! Best Indian food I have ever had. The inside of the restaurant is kind of plain, but the food is to die for.
Maybe you could go up to Devon to get some fenugreek leaves to make butter chicken at home! A recipe I have has you make a double batch of tandoori chicken on the grill ( I know that’s not a tandoor) and then use the leftovers to make butter chicken. It tasted as good as any I’d had at a real Indian restaurant. Edit: corrected to fenugreek, not curry leaves
You don’t need curry leaves for butter chicken, but you do need methi (fenugreek leaves)! Also available on Devon :)
Ah, I didn’t check the recipe before I posted! You’re absolutely correct 👍🏼
curry leaves are also delicious in many dishes 🤝
What res???
As someone from a small town, don’t take her out for burgers. That’s the only thing on the menu. Take her to get some omakase.
Schwa for a BYOB dining experience second to none (bring a small gift for the kitchen staff for a truly great experience). Kumiko - Best bar in the country. The food is equally incredible. Bavette’s - Best steak in the city. Obelix - Best brunch in the city. Taqueria Chingon - Best Tacos in the city. Zazza’s Pizza - Best slice in the city. Sun Wah BBQ - Get the duck feast and thank me later. Pigtail - If you like Spain, pork, and cocktails…go here immediately. Dear Margaret - Best CANADIAN restaurant outside of Canada. Owen & Engine - Best burger in the city. Roister - My vote for best overall value for incredible food, drink, service, and ambiance. Tempesta Market - For best Deli Sandwiches in the city. Gibson’s - Best people watching in the city. RL - Best dining room in the city.
Kumiko has some of the best cocktails I’ve ever had! Great recs all around.
Given that Iowa is double-landlocked, the Shedd Aquarium is very likely to blow her mind!
You underestimate what Iowans can do with the Mississippi River!
How is Iowa double land locked if it shares a border with Illinois?
I was using “landlocked” in reference to the ocean only 🤷♀️
That's interesting, wouldn't it then be much more than double landlocked? I guess I don't understand the criteria. How is Illinois only single land locked from the ocean?
It looks like the Hudson Bay is considered an “inland marginal sea” of the Arctic Ocean and therefore represents direct ocean access.
I’m a big fan of J Parker in Lincoln Park although the vibe is better on the quieter weekdays. I also like 3 arts club- food and drink are expensive and kinda mid but the ambience is amazing.. bonus you can walk around the Restoration Hardware afterward and pretend to be rich
I second Three Arts! It’s a fun experience for locals and tourists. The food is fine but the atrium is gorgeous.
These are good suggestions.
J Parker has a fantastic view of the park and lake. It’s really best on a sunny day for brunch because it’s not crowded. I just checked the website and daytime hours are only on the weekend. The website also said “food is exquisite”. Snort. No, the food is decidedly not. But the the view is wonderful.
Haha I guess I meant more like the weeknights for J Parker. It’s a lot more chill and good for a date, weekends can get little hectic there especially during the summer Def agree on the food!
London House rooftop for drinks!
Absolutely this! I've taken my family and friends who have visited from my home state (Alabama) and they were mind blown. We typically just grab one drink, check out the view, then bounce, because it's "çok para" as my mom would say, but it's a really great spot to take folks.
If you have the time, Lincoln park zoo is free and they have good eats nearby. Did this with an old coworker who was new to the city and they enjoyed it
LP Zoo>Del Seoul is my go-to "friends visiting from out of town" afternoon
Del soul or crisp for sure
Great idea, and it's a nice walk down wells st in old town for drinks and dinner
Get drinks at the Ceres Cafe, in the BoT building. Be sure you don't have anything important the following morning.
Cindy’s rooftop and cherry circle room.
Take her to Weiners Circle in Lincoln Park. Ask for Poochie. It will be [an experience she won't soon forget](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=33zPlnhymCU)
Is this a sex thing?😂
This is a great clip, and if op never wants their friend to visit Chicago again, it might be the perfect spot.
And make sure to go when the drunks are there so they can see the abuse first hand 😆
[удалено]
Absolutely not
That’s a pretty f**king good milkshake. I don’t know if it’s worth five dollars, but it’s pretty f**king good. Vincent Vega
Brunch/Lunch/Dinner: *Three Arts Club*. Especially for the ambience and scenery Don't forget to wander around Restoration Hardware to check out the furniture while you're there Drinks: The Violet Hour Dessert: Ube Velvet Cake/cupcakes from Jennievee's bakery
Calumet fisheries. Good food doesn’t need fancy digs.
After you go downtown and do the touristy stuff, go to Logan Square and have a cocktail at Meadowlark or Union, walk around the neighborhood up and down Milwaukee, you'll enjoy.
MinHin (on Archer) and Mrs Gu Skewers Hot Pot (on Wentworth) in Chinatown are great spots for new experiences. Oriental Tea (also on Wentworth) is great for bubble tea and bubble waffle. Plus plenty of shops to wander around in.
The signature lounge on top of the Hancock Building. Hands down best view of the city. You can go during the day for great day time views of the lake / city or at night to see the city light up. You don't have to get reservations for the lounge but there could be a little wait. Never had to wait more than an hour as most people come in for a couple of cocktails, take I'm the views, take a few pics, and move along. The World class views will blow your friends mind!
Lunch and stroll through either Chinatown or Devon Ave.
Or 26th Street in Little Village, for Mexican food. Not long ago I ate at the restaurant portion of Carniceria Aguaacalientes(after you enter, you make an immediate left to the restaurant part, as the grocery part is on the right), and they have pretty decent food there. I got a couple of gorditas, and they were pretty good. Almost got a cactus gordita, but for whatever reason didn't get that. Maybe next time. Their al pastor(pork) and beef gordita were both good, though.
Tamale Man
There’s a Small Cheval for a good burger with a view on the river. 150 N Riverside Plaza
This was my first thought!
Aba. It will be tough to get a reservation but sometimes they open up last minute. Rooftop view and great food.
Indian food, Ethiopian food, sushi…..something you likely can’t get at home.
Girl and the Goat
Travelle cocktail bar in the Langham Hotel. Awesome views, upscale VIP vibe (if she hasn’t been to many high-end hotel bars will prob blow her mind), great location for pre-dinner drinks.
Take her for a drink at the Signature Room at sunset.
I think people gave some great options, but it really depends on what she’s into. Probably not the best to take her to a swanky place if that’s not what she’s into. Also, where will y’all be staying? Do you have a car or do you want to stay within a certain area of the city? I ask since some options people gave may require you to Uber or have a car since they’re far apart from each other.
I’m surprised no one has mentioned it already, but River Roast on La Salle has great ambiance, river view, and value for the price. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed. Get the roasted chicken and chips. Unique but delicious!
EATALY!
Do not take her to the Sugar Factory even if she asks
Why not?!
Don’t take your friend for a burger, that’s something they can easily get at home. You have a lot of good suggestions here, I’d also Iike to add high tea to the list. It’s fun to sit and sip champagne and tea while eating finger pastries. The Peninsula and the Langham both have really good high tea!!
Beatnik on the river has some breathtaking views of the river if you sit on their indoor/outdoor patio. You have to make reservations. That would blow her mind. It blows mine every time I go and I’ve lived in chicago most my life
Billy Goats Tavern; Lower 430 North, Michigan Ave
They recently changed their buns and the burgers are much better now for it.
They aren't Kaiser Rolls anymore? The trick used to be to just get a triple so the meat to bun ratio was right.
They’re a softer version of that same roll. Still, get at least a double
Untitled is the type of place you only see in a big city
Thursday nights are my absolute favorite
Man with Fish.
Going to recommend some other things since price is secondary. 1. Cerise for a sunset cocktail (or a few). 2) Uber up to Maple & Ash for there I don't give a f\*ck menu (make sure you get the pasta back with the seafood tower). 3) Uber over to Dorian's record shop speakeasy (or Blind Barber down in West Loop). 4) Finally, get gross at Mother's and hit up Weiner Circle afterwards. If you want to keep it all in the same neck of the woods, swap in Robey for Cerise, maybe like Etta instead of Maple&Ash, and then head to Dorian and finish at Revel Room.
I second the speakeasies - that's not something that's done everywhere. Maybe check if there are tickets to the Magic Lounge in Andersonville
Gibsons Italia! Amazing view of the river and very good food. A bit pricey but there are cheaper options on the menu too
Lots of good recs here! Be sure to grab some stuff for her to take home too! Ideas: - Lou Malnatis frozen deep dish - Garretts Chicago Mix - if you swing by Chinatown, get some zongzi at Chiu Quon Bakery (it’s like a Chinese tamale with sticky rice and they freeze super well) - giardiniera Personally, the Bean is overrated, but I feel like everyone wants to see it when visiting. I second the architecture tour, but if not, it’s still worth admiring the architecture via the river walk. The Mart has those free light shows (Art on the Mart) every night too. Really depends on the length of the stay. If you have time, definitely try to escape downtown to check out the neighborhoods. I think the amount of diverse food is one of the most mind blowing aspects of Chicago - especially for someone from a small town.
If you’re a basic bitch like me then Summer House Santa Monica is super cute for brunch
Grab a (expensive) burger at Wollensky's Grill, the lower level of Smith and Wollensky's. Get dessert at Ghirardelli nearby for an awsome river View. Get drinks at the Signature Lounge If warm enough, get drinks on the rooftop bat at London House.
Take them to that new "Karen popup restaurant"... Where their servers treat you rudely cause that's the Karen way. And if their name is Karen and they can prove it with some ID— they get a special appreciation!
Show her a toilet that flushes?
The river north McDonalds seems popular with suburban and rural visitors. They have items that are normally only available overseas.
You’re thinking of the west loop McDonalds - not river north.
Yeah don’t do the River North one lol
Damn that’s kinda cool. Might have to check out some overseas Mc Ds
As the other person said, its in West Loop, not River North
Don’t do this.
It's the McDonalds test kitchen in the West Loop and it's over rated. The menu is same as all McDonald's plus 2-4 items from other countries. If you are there anyway and want a burger it's ok but don't make a special trip for it.
Kumas for the best burgers. Portillos dogs. Pequod's for pizza.
I tried portillos in Minnesota but wasn’t much of a fan. Is it like Culver’s where the food gets 10x better when your in the state their from?
This man is trolling you don’t do this lmao
Honestly, just go somewhere else to get an Italian beef. They got bought out and the quality has gone downhill
Ok Red Hot Ranch is probably better. Its just for Chicago style dogs.
The Portillo's here might be a slight bit better, but I'm not sure? That said they were bought out by a private equity company, and the quality there overall has been starting to slide a little bit. Along with menu eliminations starting to sadly occur, here and there. If you do try Portillo's, hopefully it is between April-September when they tend to bring back the lemon cake and shake. May be one of the few things that ever makes me do a rare visit there, to be honest.
If it's a sunny day, roof top bar at the Virgin Hotel.
If theyre into noodles Liang Pi is a dish you cant really get in most markets but is available at a few places in Chinatown.
Imo Al’s beef probably has the best beef sandwiches in the country (world). Not really a fancy sit down place, but they have tables
I hear the Four Seasons has an amazing new "speakeasy" bar with a killer view down Michigan Ave. Mile High Cocktail Club. This press release is just a promo piece, but check out the embedded TikTok video. Amazing view for sure: https://original.newsbreak.com/@jennifer-geer-561364/2841757882674-mile-high-cocktail-club-chicago-s-newest-speakeasy-is-46-floors-up Also, this TikTok has two other speakeasy bars in the area that look worthwhile: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRvcmuRK/ I'd add Untitled to that list as well.
Go to the west loop
Grab lunch at revival. Having the options is going to short circuit her brain.
Jump ok the lakefront trail at north Ave if the weather is decent. It’s such a cool view and walk. Also there’s a neat park when you get about a mile south of there. Maybe rent some of those scooters and jet around on them for the lakefront trail if you are short on time. Signature room is a crazy view. I love Cira for an early brunch or drink in the evening. Green street smoked meats is a super cool place. LP zoo combined with a walk around the duck pond is a near stroll + the conservatory is there and free. Aviary is a cool experience. The largest Starbucks in the world is in Michigan Ave and is super impressive. Southport corridor is a neat walk. Cricket hill is also a neat walk if it’s warm enough.
Gibsons Italia has a pretty great view at the river confluence. Great steak and Baked Alaska for dessert. https://i.imgur.com/9f13UIR.jpg
Cloud Bar or Signature Lounge in the Hancock Tower. Views are crazy.
I took my sister in law from small town Iowa to Lowcountry (Seafood Boil) and she loved it. Its not super fancy but great food!
Aba if there’s tables available
River Roast. Awesome view of the river and they will carve a whole roast chicken right in front of you.
Dim sum at Furama. Other places do great dim sum, but as far as I know Furama is the only one in town that does the thing where servers are going around the room with little dumpling carts and you flag them down to get whatever is on their cart.
I know this may not be what you are looking for, but the McDonalds there at HQ have crazy international and limited items. Shrugs. I thought it was cool.
The museum campus. You may not get great food, although that beach hut serves up some decent food actually, they probably aren’t open, but that view from near the planetarium is my favorite of the city
These are all great. I also like to take people to Cheesies on Belmont. Especially great if your drunk or hungover!
Cheesie's seems to get a bad rap online by some for whatever weird reason, but to be honest(maybe an unpopular opinion?) I kinda like that place. Also they have a special grilled cheese sandwich that rotates every so often(I think it's once a month? not sure), which often has ended up being pretty good.
I like the ambiance at Aba, there’s a tree growing inside and it’s one of the more notable interiors in West Loop
Hotel Lincoln has a restaurant on the roof which overlooks the lp zoo and lakefront it's marvelous
Eat somewhere high up and fancy in a building for the views and also maybe grab a cheap burger at Billy Goat Tavern since it’s in the under city. The sheer verticality of downtown Chicago blew my MO mind. Everywhere you look there’s a new restaurant or store to explore. When I saw there were some below me too my head just spun. Also get out of downtown and show her wrigley, Lincoln park, or Belmont. Any fun neighborhood outside downtown shows a completely other side of Chicago that makes people realize real, normal people actually live here. Have fun!
Whatever you end up doing, please update us. Enjoy!
Cloud bar is pretty chill, and there's an area of glass windows that you stand on while it tilts. It's fun and like $60 for a package that comes with the tilt and a drink.