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Craving Curry? This popular Indian dish is seasoned with various delicious spices and served over rice (like Basmati or Jasmine). Depending on the ingredients, your curry can be extremely spicy or comfortably mild. It’s the perfect comfort food for when you’re in the mood for a hearty meal. Plus, it’s even better the next day as leftovers. Check out where you can find the best curry in Chicago and get your hands on some butter chicken and garlic naan! 

2770 N Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 60647

This mom-and-pop shop is known for its wonderful teas. But, they also have insanely good curry bowls! Vegetarians can’t get enough of their filling Cauliflower Peas & Potatoes served with russet potatoes, green peas, tomatoes, and spices. And meat lovers will fall for their Pork Vindaloo, which consists of tangy curry, pork, and potatoes.

Image Credit: The Spice Room

2906 W Armitage Ave. Chicago, IL 60647

You don’t have to travel to Northern India to get an authentic meal in Chi-town. Just swing by The Spice Room for a modern interpretation of classic dishes and high quality ingredients. Popular items include Chicken Curry served with onions, tomatoes, ginger, and spices. Also Curry Lamb which is lamb cooked in a savory curry sauce. 

59 W Grand Ave. Chicago, IL 60654

Founder Jagmohan Jayara opened his first restaurant in 1993 and since has grown to three locations. His team serves up food that touches the soul and celebrates Indian culture. Some favorites include Spicy Hyderabdi Veg Curry, a mix of vegetables cooked in a spicy peanut sauce. Also, their Chicken Curry is absolutely delicious. The tender chicken cooked in a delicately spiced curry sauce will literally melt in your mouth. 

434 W Diversey Pkwy. Chicago, IL 60614

The talented team at Gorkha Kitchen dishes traditional Indian and Nepalese cuisines based on recipes that have been perfected over thousands of years. Their top curry dishes include Creamy Masala Chicken Curry and Nepali Khasi, which is a goat curry cooked in aromatic Nepalese spices with the flavors of fenugreek, cinnamon, onions, ginger, and tomatoes.

714 W Diversey Pkwy. Chicago, IL 60614

Looking for a variety of modern Indian cuisine? Then check out Mild 2 Spicy for vast selection of items. You can find almost everything on their menu, including Paneer, Tofu, Vegetarian, Lentil, Chicken, Lamb, Goat, and Seafood Curries. Plenty of mild and spicy flavors to go around!

Featured Image: Gorkha Kitchen

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Sandwich, noun. An item of food consisting of two pieces of bread with meat, cheese, or other filling between them, eaten as a light meal… Cross out the light meal, the rest sounds about right. Like all other iconic food items, Chicago’s chefs and restaurants don’t hesitate to get creative with this classic dish, either. From classic grilled cheese reaching a whole new level, to Asian-fusion sandwiches, here are places to find the best sandwiches in Chicago during (or beyond) this national sandwich month!

400 N La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60654

WHAT: Goddess of Italian Parma

This local favorite is perhaps also one of the most eco-friendly and sustainable eateries in the city. On the menu, diners can indulge in a variety of innovative breakfast and lunch sandwiches including Goddess of Italian Parma, Spicy Chicken Melt, Spanish Serrano Ham + Manchego Cheese, and many more. Hannah’s Bretzel also offers a Chef Series that features a special sandwich created by a local chef. In August, diners can expect a collaboration with El Che Steakhouse & Bar.

1137 Greenleaf Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091

WHAT: Ouilmette Cheesesteak

Located in the heart of downtown Wilmette, Buck Russell’s is the newest one-stop-shop on the North Shore. When dining in, guests can expect smiling faces, and casual, yet thoughtful, service. The savory menu includes a dozen original sandwiches served on house-baked bread, including the “Ouilmette Cheesesteak” featuring shaved ribeye, provolone, A1 mayo and caramelized onions, or the the “Ragin’ Cajun” made with Cajun-spiced turkey, Alpine swiss, slaw and homemade chow chow relish. Diners can also order the “Texas Style Chili ” seasoned with an award-winning spice blend from the Lone Star state itself.

Image Credit: Gardones Photography

954 W Fulton Market St, Chicago, IL 60607

WHAT: August sandwich

Marvin’s Food & Fuel, the vibey corner joint in Fulton Market, has partnered with Buck Russell’s, the popular new sandwich shop and bakery in Wilmette from the team behind Sophia Steak, Gemini, and Andros Taverna, for its August Sandwich Series campaign. The monthly sandwich pop-up series at Marvin’s Food & Fuel kicked off in March featuring an original recipe created by Chef Doug Psaltis of Andros Taverna.

The sandwich consists of warm shaved corned beef, Hook’s Baby Swiss, sliced dill pickles, and spicy brown mustard with a side of hand-cut fries.  Proceeds from the $16 sandwich benefit Pilot Light, a chef- and educator-founded nonprofit that introduces food education and its benefits to students.

1525 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610

WHAT: Ultimate Grilled Cheese

When you think of sandwiches, what better way to celebrate the month than with a childhood classic that never goes out of style? LG’s Bar & Kitchen, located in Chicago’s Old Town, provides a unique twist on the classic Grilled Cheese sandwich elevating it from your family’s kitchen to a night out meal with friends. Made with a gooey four-cheese blend, fresh tomato jam, fried onions, crispy bacon sandwiched between two gold brown pieces of parmesan-crusted sourdough.

1300 W Wellington Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

WHAT: Roasted Beef Reuben? This take on the classic reuben is for all the plant-based menu lovers out there, who are looking to enjoy all the classics this sandwich month without the meat-filled guilt. Farm Bar Lakeview is using beets as the substitute for corned beef to create the same texture and topped with sauerkraut, swiss cheese, Farm Bar secret sauce sandwiched between marble rye bread. Visually, this sandwich may look like a reuben, but once you take a bite, it’s even better.

1559 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

WHAT: Hot and Crispy Mushroom Sandwich

Bloom Plant Based Kitchen from James Beard nominated Chef Rodolfo Cuadros offers Chicago a completely plant-based menu that is 100% gluten free and vegan. One of Chef Rodolfo’s favorite dishes is his Hot and Crispy Mushroom Sandwich. Sambal aioli, battered maitake mushroom, fermented cabbage and pickles will become your new favorite sandwich to celebrate national sandwich month.

1604 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

WHAT: Wagyu Breakfast Sandwich

From Bonhomme Hospitality Group, Beatnik West Town is driven by a triumphant fusion of three countries close to their heart: Morocco for its audacious combinations of color and passionate artisans, France for its music and artistic confidence, and Italy for a healthy dose of polish and panache to sex it all up. In the spirit of that fusion, they’ve got a killer Wagyu Breakfast Sandwich on the brunch menu, served with Wagyu Bresaola, black truffle aioli, organic egg, Swiss cheese, and giardiniera vinaigrette.

1721 W Division St., Chicago, IL 60622

WHAT: Almussafes Bocata

Unless you’ve spent some quality time in Valencia, Spain, you’ve never eaten one of the world’s great sandwiches, Almussafes Bocata. Typically eaten as a snack between meals, this sandwich, or “bocata,” is traditionally made with sobrasada (a soft, spreadable pimenton-spiked sausage), caramelized onions and melted cheese. At Mama Delia on the Bocata del Abuelo, they add a parsley and red onion salad, which balances the richness, with further upgrades via goat cheese and the pan de cristal, the super crispy bread shipped frozen from Spain on which it’s served.

Image Credit: Sunda New Asian

110 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654

WHAT: Crispy Eggplant Steamed Buns

If you cut a bao into two halves, it counts as a sandwich. Plus, we just can’t leave this one off our list because… Hello!? Have you seen the ingredients? We’re talking panko crusted eggplant and asian slaw sandwiched by two slices of scallion bao bun! Say no more! We’ll take one order of the eggplant buns, and one order of the classic Korean Fried Chicken Buns too!

Image Credit: Maddy Cox

825 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

WHAT: City Smoked Ham

According to Rob Levitt, Head Butcher of PQM, the mark of a great sandwich is contrast. If the star of the sandwich is fatty (pork belly, gooey cheese) consider an acidic condiment to cut all the fat. If it is lean (shaved turkey breast) consider something fatty like avocado or a flavored mayo or aioli. And always try and add some texture — whether that’s greens, slaw, chips, fried onions, or giardiniera (Rob’s fave!).

So, try the City Smoked Ham sandwich and taste the layers of goodies and the amazing textures yourself! The sandwich is made with thick-cut smoked ham slices, stracciatella cheese, escarole, sun-dried tomato, and olive oil tapenade on PQB focaccia.

Image Credit: Clayton Hauck

2200 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

WHAT: Reuben

We all know Lardon has some of the best charcuterie boards in Chicago. But did you know their sandwiches are also on fire!? For example, this classic yet delicious reuben sandwich is always our go-to choice for a quick fix that never fails! House-cured pastrami, Midnight Moon gouda, fancy sauce, house kraut, and deli pickles on marbled rye — it. is. heaven!

Image Credit: All Too Well

352 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

WHAT: Boatwich

All Too Well is our go-to spot for a quick work lunch in Chicago. There are just too many good things about this cute little joint! The marketplace always have fun, fresh, healthy treats. The sandwiches here are fresh and full of flavors, and the owner never shies away from using innovative ingredients like smoked white fish spread or chimichuri. But our favorite thing about this place is all the menu items are named after something or someone special to the owner. That human touch is just so beautiful!

Featured Image: Maddy Cox

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Let’s catch summer’s tail with some bubbles! If you’ve been sipping on Rose all summer and are ready for a change, why not explore the best prosecco in Chicago? Plus, National Prosecco Day (Aug.13) has just passed — and a belated celebration is always welcome!

The thing is, prosecco has been considered a seond-tier sparkling for so long, and it’s totally unfair. A good prosecco is just as tasty as a quality riesling, plus the bubbles, which make it even better. So, follow us as we hop through our favorite bars and restaurants for the best prosecco and prosecco-based cocktails in Chicago.

Image Credit: Tanta

118 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Available by the glass ($12) or bottle ($42), Tanta Chicago offers Adriano Adami Garbel Prosecco for guests to sip while enjoying authentic Peruvian bites on their vibrant rooftop. With fruits sourced from the greater plains of Italy, this complex and crisp-edged wine delivers notes of ripe apples and pears that keep a remarkable balance of full-flavored aromas and cascading bubbles.

Image Credit Ettakit Photography

1072 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Head over to Frontier Chicago, where nature dictates the menu in delivering incredible small plates, salads, sandwiches, and meat & seafood entrees. Frontier’s extensive drink menu features a 200ml individual bottle of La Contesse Prosecco Brut (11% ABV) for guests to indulge in for only $13. Enjoy the sparkling notes of golden apple, Williams pear, and white blossoms that derive from the vineyards of Italy while experiencing the best beer garden Chicago has to offer.

Image Credit: Ina Mae Tavern

1415 N Wood St, Chicago, IL 60622

Make your day sparkle, head to Wicker Park’s favorite New Orleans-inspired restaurant, Ina Mae Tavern, and sip La Marca Prosecco on their dog-friendly patio. Found in the vineyards of Treviso, Italy, this deliciously rich sparkling wine opens with delicate aromas of fresh citrus, honeysuckle blossoms, green apple, juicy peaches, and ripe lemon while finishing with a refreshingly crisp taste. Available by the glass for $11 or by the bottle for $44.

Image Credit: Lardon

2200 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Effervescent prosecco and earthy mezcal come together in this crisp summer spritz. Grounded by Ramozotti Rosato Amaro and Cocchi Rosa, which impart lovely floral notes, the end result is a refreshing, nuanced sipper. Available at Lardon for $12, it pairs perfectly with a bountiful board of their house-cured charcuterie.

2456 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Few things scream summer more than bubbles and rosé, and arguably the best place they come together is on Logan Square’s Testaccio’s brand new patio where they’re pouring La Gioiosa “Et Amorosa” Prosecco Rose Millesimato. Best enjoyed al fresco, this bubbly is refreshingly fruity yet balanced by a light tartness and soft finish. Available by the glass for $12, or by bottle for $40.

Your summer is incomplete until you’ve tried Gioia’s summer “Aperitivo Menu”! For prosecco fixes, choose between their house prosecco, Pitars DOC Extra Dry NY (Veneto), or their prosecco-base cocktail “Blossom Spritz,” made with Ketel One Peach Blossom, Aperol, and the house Prosecco.

Featured Image: Unsplash

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After a two-year hiatus, the Chicago Air and Water Show, a beloved Chicago tradition for decades, returns to the city’s lakefront on August 20 and 21. Established in 1959 and one of the largest free admission events of its kind, headliners of the 2022 show include the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, who are dedicating their performances to the memory of Rudy Malnati, Jr.

With the thrill and excitement of vintage and modern aircraft soaring overhead, the event organizers, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), want to offer the millions of expected visitors a few small tips to help everyone enjoy the show. 

Where to Watch

The prime viewing location for the Chicago Air and Water Show is on the lakefront from Oak Street to Fullerton Avenue, with the show’s focal point being North Avenue Beach. The lakefront will be open to the public beginning at 6 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

While on the beach, show organizers remind visitors that normal beach security rules will apply. Bags and coolers will be subject to search, and alcohol and dogs are prohibited on the beach.

Refreshment options will be plentiful, with food vendors located up and down the lakefront, along with plenty of restroom facilities, including in the North Avenue Beach House and portable facilities scattered throughout the primary viewing area. The show is also accessible, with more information available here. You can also register here for audio descriptions on both days of the event.

Image Credit: DCASE

Parking and Transportation

The best way to get to the show is by using public transportation. Extended routes and additional buses and trains will be added to the Chicago Transit Authority’s schedule to accommodate the expected 2 million event spectators. If traveling by car, be aware that there is no parking available at the beach and there is limited parking available at Lincoln Park Zoo. Parking is also available at Millennium Garages, which will offer a pre-purchase discount and free shuttles to North Avenue Beach. Information on Millennium Garages can be found at www.millenniumgarages.com.

Taxis and rideshares are also convenient modes of transportation, but to avoid traffic congestion, it is recommended to be dropped off away from the entrance to North Avenue Beach and walk in.

Rail Service Information

Spectators who wish to avoid street traffic altogether can reach the Air and Water Show on Red Line trains from subway stations at Chicago/State or Clark/Division, which are within walking distance of the beach.

Customers who take the Pink, Orange and Green lines can ride downtown and transfer to the Red Line at State/Lake. Customers can also transfer from the Red Line at North/Clybourn, the Blue Line at Damen or the Brown Line at Sedgwick to connect to #72 North Avenue buses that will supplement regular service along North Avenue from California to Clark.

CTA customer assistants will be on hand at all downtown rail stations to assist customers with fare and travel information, and customers are advised to allow extra travel time.

Bus Service Information

On both days, supplemental bus service will be provided on the #72 North Avenue and #151 Sheridan routes, which operate close to all the activities. To avoid traffic congestion near the North Avenue Beach area, #72 buses only will travel as far east as North Avenue and Clark. Buses on the #145 Wilson/Michigan Express, #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express, and #147 Outer Drive Express routes operate to Michigan and Delaware and are within walking distance of the beach.  Customers can also take the #22 Clark or #36 Broadway routes to North and Clark, within walking distance of North Avenue Beach.

Customers disembarking at Metra’s Union Station or Millennium Park Station can board #151 buses to Oak Street and North Avenue beaches. The #151 buses also are within walking distance of the Ogilvie Transportation Center and the LaSalle Street Metra station.

Image Credit: DCASE

What to Bring

Spectators are encouraged to bring a hat, binoculars, chairs, plenty of sunscreen and earplugs, especially for children and those who have hearing sensitivities due to heightened noise levels from the low-flying, supersonic stunt aircraft. Chicago beaches can also be quite hot, so a personal cooler with water and ice is also recommended.

Prohibited Items

The following items are prohibited on show grounds at North Avenue Beach: BBQ grills (open flames), drones (personal or commercial), alcohol, fireworks or explosives, illegal substances or weapons, pop-up tents or canopies, helium balloons, kites, flag poles, and all pets, excluding service animals. 

Image Credit: DCASE

Tune In For The Show

Herb Hunter, the long-time official announcer of the Chicago Air and Water Show, returns to the booth this year and his commentary can be heard from Oak Street Beach to Fullerton Beach. In addition, WBBM Newsradio 780 / 105.9 will broadcast the show live Saturday and Sunday, on both the radio and the free Audacy app. 

Civilian performers at the 2022 show include Susan Dacy, Bill Stein, Kevin Coleman, Rob Holland, Triple Time Team, The Chicago Fire Department Air/Sea Rescue, and the Chicago Police Department helicopter. For the first time, the U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight and U.S. Navy Legacy Flights will be presented in the same Air and Water Show; a rare event for any air show. The U.S. Navy has provided an additional F-35C Legacy II to its Legacy Flight to incorporate a “Missing Man” dedication to Rudy Malnati Jr. Malnati served as the show’s “Air Boss” for more than 30 years, and sadly passed away in December.

Organizers & Sponsors

The Chicago Air and Water Show is presented by Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and is supported by The Boeing Company, ABC 7 Chicago, WBBM Newsradio, Chicago Transit Authority, E & J Gallo Winery, Goose Island Beer Company and Millennium Garages.

For more information on the Chicago Air and Water Show, visit chicagoairandwatershow.us. Join the conversation on Facebook (Chicago Air and Water Show) and follow DCASE on Twitter and Instagram @ChicagoDCASE (#ChiAirandWater).

Featured Image: DCASE

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Dive below the surface with a trip to Chicago’s own Shedd Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums! Explore the other-worldly beauty of fish, amphibians, and other aquatic species who make their homes in waters around the world. See through the eyes of a stingray in the Caribbean Reef or wave to a dolphin below the oceanarium. You can explore the stunning diversity of aquatic life by visiting these must-see exhibits within Shedd Aquarium.

Caribbean Reef

As you enter the aquarium, a vast array of colorful marine species greets you. A giant circular tank in the center of the room contains a variety of corals, jellyfish, sharks, stingrays, and other fish. Walk around the entire circumference of the tank to grasp the enormous variance between the species which inhabit a Caribbean reef.

Abbott Oceanarium

This exhibit highlights the spectacular coastal ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest. Giant tanks filled with energetic beluga whales, dolphins, and sea otters create an interactive element as you may get splashed by a playful friend! Other parts of the exhibit feature relaxed sea lions and penguins waddling among rocks. 

Underwater Beauty

Underwater Beauty is the aquarium’s newest exhibit. With over 100 species to observe, the display prompts its guests to ask, “What is beauty?” Gaze upon fish representing the colors of the rainbow or see how many different patterns you can find (the spotted lagoon jellyfish is a favorite). Not able to make it to the aquarium? Catch a live stream of the Underwater Beauty exhibit on the aquarium’s website.

Wild Reef

With over 400,000 gallons of water and 540 species, the Wild Reef tank is filled with color and motion everywhere you look. Sharks, stingrays, and eels peacefully wade through the vibrant waters. The largest public display of live corals in the Midwest, the Wild Reef exhibit also gives a peek into Shedd’s work in restoring coral reefs worldwide.

Amazon Rising

When the Amazon experiences flooding each year, the whole forest transforms into a new kind of ecosystem. Learn how tiger rays and catfish swim amongst the trees and how emerald tree boas track down their next meal. Explore the ever-changing world of anacondas, spiders, poisonous dart frogs, and crocodiles in the wild forests of the Amazon.

Waters of the World

The Waters of the World exhibit features the unique ecosystems of islands, rivers, the Great Lakes, and oceans. Discover the immense variety of aquatic life and the waters that sustain them. From alligators and turtles to seahorses and bass, in this exhibit, the fish native to the Great Lakes have just stepped away from an octopus native to the Pacific ocean.

Featured Image: Shedd Aquarium

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The NFL preseason is well underway which means there’s plenty of Chicago Bears news to go around these days. From training camp updates, injury alerts, NFL Top 100 list announcements, and preseason game breakdowns, not a day goes by without some Bears news to fill our football cravings. 

Today, we’re going all-in on the Monsters of the Midway as we look to recap what’s happening with the team as the 2022 NFL season inches closer!

Roquan Smith Updates

The ongoing contract battle between linebacker Roquan Smith and the front office has been the focal piece of Chicago Bears news lately.

Last week, the two-time All-Pro had requested a trade after extension talks stalled. In a statement released to NFL Media, Smith noted that the offer from the Bears was not only bad for himself, but the entire linebacker market. He claims the Bears aren’t negotiating in good-faith, which is always concerning to hear considering he’s one of the best guys on the roster.

As of late, teams were notified by the league that a non-NFLPA-certified agent had been contacting teams on behalf of Roquan Smith to gauge trade interest for the player. This is a big no-no in the league’s eyes as Smith represents himself and he hasn’t received the Bears’ permission to seek a trade. While Smith is unlikely to be punished for it, it’s something to keep an eye on as negotiations continue.

Bears Win Preseason Game

Now on to some lighter Chicago Bears news. On Sunday, the team walked away from their first preseason game with a victory against the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite trailing 14-0 at the end of the first half, the team scored 19 unanswered points to secure the dub.

While the starting offense didn’t generate any points, that isn’t to say they didn’t show some positive flashes in the first half. Second-year quarterback, Justin Fields, went 4/7 on 48 yards with his arm. At one point, he even took off for a 10-yard scramble. However, the biggest takeaway from watching Fields play again has to be that he looks more comfortable in year two. It’s definitely a positive considering he’s under a new regime, but some Bears’ reporters think he looks a little too comfortable out there.

Another positive piece of Bears’ news from preseason game 1 involves rookie safety Jaquan Brisker, who the team selected in the second round of this year’s draft. He’s been having an incredible training camp thus far, and continued that with a strong performance against Kansas City that should bode well for our confidence in him.

NFL Top 100 Nods

Our last piece of Chicago Bears news we’ll touch on also occurred over the past weekend. Like they do every year, NFL Network started to release their Top 100 Players of 2022 list on Sunday.

Players 100 through 51 were named right away, and over the next few weeks, the remaining 50 players will be announced. But, for guys 100-51, the Bears ended up with two players on the list!

The first player for the Bears came in at #98 with running back David Montgomery. After three seasons in the NFL, Montgomery has totaled 24 touchdowns, seven of which came last season. His scoring and pass-catching capabilities are a big reason he made the cut, and we hope that Matt Eberflus can gameplan a bit more for his receiving skills than before.

The next guy from Chicago who made the NFL Network’s Top 100 list shouldn’t come to anyone’s surprise: Roquan Smith. Smith was ranked #84 on the list, and managed to beat out the most recent Super Bowl MVP in Von Miller at #93. Heading into his fifth season, Smith has come up with 14 career sacks and 524 tackles. He has one interception to his name, which we saw last season, and it resulted in a 53-yard return for a touchdown. If all goes well, we have no reason not to believe that he will continue to climb the list over the years as the leader of the Bears defense!

Featured Image Credit: Chicago Bears Instagram

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If you’re reading this and happen to be the guy I dated from Logan Square: you’re the worst. But, if you’re anyone but him, we’re back! Our revamped neighborhood dating guide started in Lincoln Park. Now, we’re heading west of I-90 to Logan Square.

With tons of to-dos lining Milwaukee and Fullerton avenues, making a plan for a fun first date in Logan Square is a breeze! Plus, if the date goes south and your partner starts talking about their weird hobbies (oh, you play Quidditch on the weekends), there’s tons of public transportation for an easy exit. 

Before the weather officially turns for the season, plan a date to Logan Square for lively bars, delicious restaurants, and activities at every corner. There is no better time than the Fall to find someone special to keep you warm through the winter.

2700 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Owen & Engine is one of those date spots that will pique your interest and then have you captivated enough to turn your dinner into a night-cap as you dive deeper into your conversation and think to yourself, “could this be the one, or do I just need another glass of Pinot Noir?”

Earlier this year, Owen & Engine reopened after shutting down during the pandemic. Now, it is operating better than ever. Featuring cozy leather seating and low ambient lighting, this Logan Square staple pampers diners with an expansive dinner menu ranging from smaller plates to large dishes and everything from beer to bourbon to sip on. If you’re also looking to impress your date by eating at a restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients, you can rest easy knowing that Owen & Engine supports local farms, orchards, and growers to get their food. 

2646 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Ah, a classic date combo: dinner and a movie! When you’re looking for the latest flick with your latest fling, head to the legendary Logan Theatre. This theater opened back in 1915, and found its lasting name in 1922 as the Logan Theatre. Since then, the owners have been dedicated to serving the diverse families of the community. Could anything be more romantic than the smell of fresh, buttery popcorn and sharing a Diet Coke over two straws while you lock your eyes? I don’t think so. 

Aside from movies, the Logan Theatre also hosts open mic nights for aspiring stand-up comedians and movie trivia nights on Tuesdays! For a little extra spice to your movie date, try one of the Late Nights at the Logan, where movies start at 11 PM, and the drinks are stiff. Shot of Malort, anyone?

2236 N Sacramento Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Is your date super sweet? Take them for dessert! As we move toward the end of summer, we need to take advantage of the weather and the sweet treats as much as possible. That said, there’s probably nothing more perfect for a late summer day than a cold and tangy Italian ice.

There is a flavor for everyone with flavors like classic lemon, tart raspberry, and creamy chocolate. If you’re trying to make the date a little more romantic, order a few flavors and try them each together. They always say, the best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and a trip to Miko’s with a potential love interest is sure to wind up in a planned second date, if not a very long first date.

2421 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

The Whistler might be one of the coolest places in Chicago for a first date. This cocktail bar/art gallery/record label/venue has literally everything you’re looking for on a date. From the strong drinks to the trendy atmosphere to the people, you’ll find that you and your date will be continuously entertained with no lull in the conversation. With an ever-changing, award-winning cocktail list, you’ll have to follow The Whistler’s Menu Instagram to see what drinks are available each day. 

When you and your date are ready to try something different, check out the events menu. You can always try out a new music genre with a stage and many local artists. If you like country and your date likes blues, you just found your reason to come back to The Whistler and an awesome excuse for a second date! 

2824 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

For a timelessly perfect date, head to Osteria Langhe. This Italian eatery celebrates tradition, emphasizes slow-cooked meals, and was named one of the Best Italian Restaurants in America by Timeout Magazine in 2017. Here, you can live out all your Lady and the Tramp dreams (you know what I’m talking about) by diving into exquisite pasta dishes, savory crepes, and wines from the Piemonte region of Italy. 

For an extra-special dining experience, try out the “Taste of Piemonte”. This four-course meal is only available on Wednesdays and starts at $55. Wine pairings are an additional $30, but are highly recommended if you want to take away those first date jitters and elevate your dining experience.

Featured Image: The Whistler

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Are you all excited about the Chicago Air & Water Show returning this weekend? We sure are! If this is your first time going, or simply want to double check your travel plans, head over to the ten viewing tips for a smooth experience. However, if you’re one to live life to the fullest and decide to turn your weekend agenda up a notch… Here are the best Air and Water Show Viewing spots this year so you can get the best look, tastiest food, and the coolest crowd during the show!

Image Credit: Chicago Fireboat

111 N Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60601

Special Air & Water Show cruises will be from 11 am – 2:30 pm on Saturday & Sunday. Tickets are $100 for adults and $50 for kids and are still available for anyone looking to experience the show a little differently this year.

1000 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Views of the Chicago Air and Water Show don’t get any better than at Offshore Rooftop, the world’s largest rooftop deck as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records and one of Chicago’s most exciting hotspots located at Navy Pier! Spots are running out quickly, so, you better get yours from their website today!

Image Credit: City Experiences

Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

If you’re looking for a view right from the water itself, why not set sail throughout the Air & Water Show weekend with a luxury cruise? City Cruises Chicago is offering several options during the live shows on Saturday and Sunday, August 20 and 21. Located at the ports of Navy Pier, City Cruises’ rooftop deck access allows patrons unbeatable views of the show straight from the water. With a delicious buffet menu, DJ entertainment, and a first-row seat to the show, City Cruises is the place to be during this historic event’s grand return! Tickets are available here.

Enjoy the show from the comfort of your own room. Experience Chicago from a brand new perspective, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Lake Michigan and the City’s famed skyline. Capitalize on this amazing hotel and experience Chicago from a brand-new perspective with an exclusive front-row seat to the iconic Air and Water show soaring by the Pier.

Avoid the crowds by booking one of Sable’s corner guestrooms for the ultimate viewing party all from the comfort of your room. These suites are extremely limited and will book quickly during the action-packed weekend.

1603 N Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60610

Beach, sunshine, lobster rolls, and frozen drinks! Wrap up your summer on a high note at Shore Club’s Air & Water Show viewing party this weekend! Tickets include entry to shore club’s patio & restaurant. Guests will enjoy a premium open bar from 10am-2pm, frozen cocktails, a bloody mary bar and shore club’s signature beachside brunch.

Reserve your spot here.

Featured Image: Sable at Navy Pier

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