Exploring Western Chicago
This week, I thought I would share some super fun spots to hit if you are interested in exploring the lesser known, and dare I say better part of Chicago: the west side! Everyone knows the eastern neighborhoods of the Gold Coast, Streeterville, River North, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Old Town, but I think - and I’m hella biased- that Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Logan Square are often forgotten about. And with so much to do, it’s just not fair. So I’ve assembled the ~ideal~ routine for the “West Side Story” of Chicago. Please let me know your thoughts and your favorite places to frequent!
Friday:
It’s a summer Friday, and assuming this truly is the optimal weekend, you finish up work around 1pm and are ready for a quick and delicious lunch. Where to have it? I recommend grabbing takeout in Bucktown from Sweet Rice, a delicious Thai spot, or hitting the Wicker Park streets to grab some Cava, now that it’s an Illinois hotspot and the first of the chain in the Midwest. If you’re near Bucktown, head to the 606, where you can find nice shady spot to enjoy your meal, followed by a leisurely stroll down the absolutely beautiful and popular walkway. If in Wicker, there’s Wicker Park, a beautiful area with a fountain and many, many adorable dogs.
As you walk around, assuming its just a little cooler out than it has been the last few weeks, stop by Katherine Anne Confections in Palmer Square, which has the best drinking hot chocolate that’s perfect for a midday treat. Or grab some bubble tea at Uni Uni on Milwaukee Ave for a refreshingly sweet option. At this point, it’s probably time to decompress, feed your cat, or go get dressed for the evening. Once you’re ready, head to dinner with no shortage of great options for the entire weekend: Enso’s Sushi, Chefs Special, Le Bouchon, and Middlebrow, for starters. Enjoy a fabulous meal and a nice beverage before hitting the Wicker Park streets for a night out. I recommend Big Mini Putt Putt for a relaxed vibe and some fun games, or the Lone Owl Pub. If you’re looking for an adventure, I’d knock back some Malort Shots at Nicks beer garden, Gracie O’ Malleys, or Remedy. Stumble home exhausted after a night of fun.
Saturday:
Wake up Saturday craving brunch because of course, that is what’s first on the agenda. Head to Bucktown’s Stay Cafe or Yolk, both with plenty of options that will start the day strong. Afterwards, it’s time for a wake up call at the local Snakes and Lattes Board Game caffe, which has a full VAULT of games you can enjoy with your friends. Afterwards, go candle making at Castle Candle and Co, which offers the unique experience for $55, complete with a candle you can take home custom created by you. It’s time for lunch, where you’ll be headed to Reds Hot Ranch for some authentic Chicago hot dogs that taste pretty incredible. Then you’ll be out to Wicker park to shop till you drop. Milwaukee Ave is known to have some great thrift shopping, complete with plenty of pop ups and other fun things you can do, like get a facial at Oasis Face Bar.
Once your body is as rested as your wallet, grab dinner at Irazú Latin Cafe, which features Carribean dining on a whole other level. I recommend the guac and Pura Passion Margarita more than I recommend pretty much anything else. They will rock your world. Afterwards, hit up a bar (earlier on this list) or go straight to Margie’s for some of the best ice cream Chicago has to offer. The wait may be long but it’s worth it- try their Swiss Miss Sundae or opt to finish their 95 scoop sundae if you dare, but I think that’s better saved for Kevin McCallisters dreams.
Sunday:
On Sunday, head to the Logan Square Farmers market, the largest farmers market that Chicago has on offer! With hundreds of art and food vendors to browse, there’s truly so much to do. I recommend putting in a reservation at the heavily trafficked Lulas Cafe or checking out Stay all Day Cafe, which has some amazing breakfast sandwiches to enjoy. Once brunch is over, it’s time to spot the Chicago mural in Logan Square, where plenty take pictures and enjoy a nice walk. There’s Palmer Square Park to read a book (that you can find at City Lit Books) or picnic later, and there’s The StopAlong, a well known spot for Pizza and trivia, near there as well!
It’s a busy schedule, but the west side of Chicago is just that diverse and exciting. So next time you’re thinking of waiting for a bus to drop you in Chicagos busiest and most touristy areas, think again! Western Chicago might just be the cherry (on top a Margie’s ice cream sundae) of your trip!
Sincerely,
Sharon