Grisel & Junior
Corner of Leavitt St. & Armitage Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-2919
Fri-Sat (10am-Midnight); Mon-Thu (10am-11pm); Sun (11am-11pm)
Mid America Bank
Corner of Armitage St. & Damen Ave.
www.midamericabank.com
24 hour ATM
Cole Taylor Bank
Northwest corrner of Armitage St. & Western Ave.
www.coletaylor.com
24 hour ATM
Audio
Decibel
1429 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-67
New and used audio and home theater equipment
www.decibel.com
Auto Parts
O'Reilly Auto Parts
2500 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 289-4798
Pep Boys Automotive Supercenter
2604 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-4444
www.pepboys.com
Bakeries
Red Hen Bread
1623 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-6823
Mon-Sat (7am-7pm); Sun (8am-5pm)
The only true bakery around -- everyone raves about everything they get there. www.redhenbread.com
Whole Foods/Treasure Island
Both have great bakeries inside their grocery stores. (see grocery stores)
Luscious Layers Bakery
2204 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 752-6770
Custom treats and great cupcakes & cookies.
Oak Mill Bakery
2204 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 752-6770
Baked
2246 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-7655
Great tasting American desserts
Cook Au Vin
2256 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-3141
Great French pastries.
Bars & Lounges
The Charleston
2076 N. Hoyne Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-4757
Charleston & Hoyne (two blocks south and one block east of us). Under new man-agement, going from a homey neighborhood bar to slick, trendy looking bar with DJs on the weekends and live jazz on Thursdays.
The Gallery Cabaret
2020 N. Oakley Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471
A former funky hole in the wall that has transformed itself into an artsy music bar. They have live music every night, Tuesday night jam sessions and Thursday night open mic with $4 pitchers of Leinenkugels always packs the joint.
www.gallerycabaret.com
The Corner Bar
2224 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 235-9279
Closest place to grab a beer or a six-pack to-go. This neighborhood dog-friendly bar has been around for a long time. Out the front door of the main B&B and to the left (north) one short block.
Map Room
1949 N. Hoyne Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-7636
Armitage Ave. & Hoyne Ave. Voted one of the top 5 traveler’s beer bars in the country. They have over 200 beers and 27 on tap! Nightly specials include International Night on Tuesdays. Busy most nights and packed on weekends. Also is a coffee bar during the day.
www.maproom.com
Floyd’s Pub
1944 N. Oakley Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-6060
Corner of Armitage Ave. & Oakley. A newer pub in the hood, with a rehabbed bar space. Great old Schultz Globe brick work on the front of the building. Serves food until 1am.
Burkes Web Pub
2046 W. Webster Ave. Chicago, IL
A neighborhood sports bar.
Danny’s
1951 W. Dickens Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-6457
It's a house with lots of small rooms turned into a unique candle-lit bar. It’s been a popular neighborhood spot for about 20 years now. Sometimes there are DJs on the weekends.
Quenchers Saloon
2401 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-9730
Offers a great selection of beer (200 Bottled and 18 Drafts from around the world). Serves food as well.
www.quenchers.com
6 Degrees
1935 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL
In the former Chinaski/Whisky Road/Darwin space.
Lemming’s
1850 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-1688
Nice quiet neighborhood-type bar that displays local artist work.
Cans Bar and Canteen
1640 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2277
True to its namesake, Cans offers 34 canned beers in addition to its premium liquor, wine and bottle beer selections. Serves Saturday and Sunday Brunch with a "build your own Bloody Mary" bar.
www.cansbar.com
Subterranean Cabaret & Lounge
2011 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-6600
Ultra-lounge occupying 3 floors of a 110-year-old building. It has a swanky atmosphere with live music and standard bar food.
www.subt.net
Estelle’s
2011 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-6600
Open until 4am
Aberdeen
1856 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-5200
DJs on the weekend, serves burgers, sandwiches and salads.
Wicker Park Tavern
1958 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL
Corner bar in the heart of Wicker Park at the intersection of Milwaukee/Damen/North. They serve great appetizers from Café Absinthe next door. OHM upstairs on Fridays & Saturdays.
OHM
1958 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL
At the corner of Wicker Park at Milwaukee/Damen/North in the former Red Dog space—through the Wicker Park Tavern. Only open Friday & Saturday nights with DJs.
The Violet Hour
1520 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-1500
Complex drinks skillfully made with such things as 7 different bitters and seven different types & temperatures of ice! Interesting selection of appetizers such as fried peanut butter, banana and bacon on brioche with wildflower honey.
www.theviolethour.com
6 Corners Sports Bar
1950 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-5700
Massive projector screen behind the bar and 13 flat screen TVs.
Wicker Well
1637 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477
Sports bar.
Debonair Social Club
1575 N Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-7990
Occasionally live music upstairs and DJs downstair.
www.debonairsocialclub.com
Double Door
1572 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-3160
One of Chicago’s classic neighborhood live music venues.
www.doubledoor.com
The Flat Iron
1565 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 365-9000
In the formerly “The Note” space. Late night bar. Open 4pm daily until 4am Sunday-Friday and 5am on Saturdays
www.theflatironchicago.com
Pint (Beer & Eats)
1547 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-0990
A modern Irish pub with flat screen TVs and high-top tables for watching sports. Second floor lounge with comfy couches. Offers standard bar food and weekend brunch buffet.
Crocodile
1540 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-0880
Nick’s Beer Garden
1516 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-1155
Small live music venue with a great urban beer garden. Live music on Friday & Saturdays. Open until 4am.
www.nicksbeergarden.com
Swig
1469 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-1439
Also serves food.
Davenport's
1383 N. Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL (773) 278-1830
Piano Bar and Cabaret. In the Cabaret Room, reservations for all performances are strongly encouraged and a two-drink minimum is in effect. By sharing an evening at Davenport's, you support cabaret artists and artistry in Chicago and across the country. www.davenportspianobar.com
Loft Six Ten
1332 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-5017
Also serves food.
Lava Lounge
1270 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-5282
Nightly DJs
Courtland’s Garage
1645 W. Courtland St. Chicago, IL (773) 862-7877
DJs on Fridays & Saturdays.
Maria’s Riptide Lounge
1750 W. Armitage Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-7317
Armitage Ave. at the Kennedy Expressway. Has been a popular 4am bar for many years.
Bike Rentals
EasyGo Motor Scooters, Inc.
2202 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252.6565
Motor Scooter rentals. $60 per day $140 Weekend.
They deliver.
www.easygomotorscooters.com
Windy City Scooter & Bicycle Rental Company
2151 W. Division St. Chicago, IL (773) 276-5200
Bicycle & scooter rentals. Closest bike rental.
http://www.windycityvespa.com
Bike Chicago
Bicycle and Segway rentals
Several locations downtown including Millenium Park and North Ave. Beach.
http://www.bikechicago.com
Bobby's Bike Rentals
Bike tours & rentals.
http://www.bobbysbikehike.com
Bookstores
Barnes & Noble
1441 W. Webster Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 871-3610
Webster Place Center. Webster St. & Clybourn Ave. Large two-story bookstore with a Starbucks inside.
www.barnesandnoble.com
Myopic Books
1564 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-4882
Most organized used bookstore I’ve ever seen.
www.myopicbookstore.com
Quimby's Bookstore
1854 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-0910
Stocks unusual publications not found in a 'normal' bookstore.
www.quimbys.com
Breakfast Restaurants
The Bucktown Beanery Café
2158 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-4200
Basic coffee shop that also serves salads and sandwiches. WIFI.
Toast
2046 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-5600
Upscale breakfast menu with very highly regarded food. Open for breakfast and lunch.
Lazos
2009 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-3303
24 hour Mexican restaurant serving basic Huevos Rancheros along with many other Mexican favorites. My long-time favorite neighborhood Mexican restaurant.
The Fullerton
2400 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-5500
Clean diner with cheap breakfasts. Good simple breakfasts & lunches.
Bongo Room
1470 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-0690
Great breakfasts and lunches. For lunch, try the new twist on a chicken burrito with fresh bean relish and cilantro crema.
Ritter's Breakfast Delivery
www.123breakfast.com (773) 489-4700
Breakfast in bed delivered. We have menus available, and you can also order in advance.
A little out of the hood, but great:
Victory’s Banner
2100 W. Roscoe St. Chicago, IL (773) 665-0227
About 1.5 miles North of here. This small diner serves only breakfast and lunch. Sari thronged waitresses serve up delicious vegetarian breakfasts. It is run by a group of devotees to Sri Chinmoy.
www.victorysbanner.com
Bite
1039 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-2483
Located next to the Empty Bottle (music venue). Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Very vegetarian friendly.
www.emptybottle.com
There are hundreds more throughout the city.
Bus Service
City Buses (CTA)
See Public Transportation
www.transitchicago.com
Greyhound
630 W. Harrison St. Chicago, IL (312) 408-5800
Bus Service to most cities.
www.greyhound.com
Megabus
Inexpensive express daily bus-service between Chicago and Minneapolis/St. Paul, Indianapolis, Detroit, Cincinnati, Cleveland, St. Louis & Milwaukee. Chicago's hub is at Union Station.
www.megabus.com/us
Car Rental
Enterprise
1842 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (800) RENT-A-CAR
They'll come pick you up!
www.Enterprise.com
Coffee shops
Red June
2020 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2600
6am-3pm daily
Coffees, breakfast, lunch and ice cream
It is the closest (out the door and to the right three short blocks). They also sell sandwiches, salads, and a few tasty treats including their apple crisp.
The Bucktown Beanery Café
2158 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-4200
Corner of Damen Ave. & Webster St. Mon-Fri (6am-8pm); Sat (7am-8pm); Sun (8am-7pm) Also serves salads and sandwiches. WIFI available
Starbucks
2101 W. Armitage Chicago, IL
www.starbucks.com
Map Room
1949 N. Hoyne Chicago, IL (773) 252-7636
Hoyne & Armitage. Very crowed bar at night, during the day it is a much quieter coffee bar. WIFI available.
www.maproom.com
Pura Belleza Coffee & Art
2161 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-1146
Enjoy coffee, tea & desserts as well as gourmet sandwiches and salads while browsing the fine arts and crafts. www.purabellezacafeyarte.com
ipesento
2035 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-1870
New coffee shop offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches and salads.
Killer Buzz
1644 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL
Caffe De Luca
1721 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-6000
A very comfortable place with great food and décor.
www.caffedeluca.com
Starbucks
1588 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL
www.starbucks.com
Filter
1373 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL
This neighborhood favorite is back!
Gallery Cafe
1760 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-8228
Serving breakfast and lunch sandwiches.
Computer supplies
Micro Center
2645 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 292-1799
www.microcenter.com
Convenience stores
Grisel & Junior
Leavitt and Armitage. (773) 276-2919
Beer, wine, basic food supplies, newspapers, lottery tickets, etc.
Fri-Sat (10am-Midnight); Mon-Thu (10am-11pm); Sun (11am-11pm)
7-Eleven
2010 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-1259
www.7-eleven.com
Polonia
1956 W. Armitage Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-1808
Copy Centers
Kinko’s
1800 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-4639
Open 24 hrs
www.fedex.kinkos.com
Kinko’s
2300 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 665-7500
www.fedex.kinkos.com
Dance Classes
ARCC Ballet
2074 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 384-2722
Classes in Ballet, Flamenco, Irish Dance, Hip Hop and Yoga for both adults and children.
www.arccballet.org
Mazi dance fitness centre
2001 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-9600
A variety of classes in Ballet, Zumba, Boxjam, etc for adults and kids.
www.mazidancefitness.com
Department Stores
Target
2656 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-1994
www.target.com
Kohls
2140 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-9032
www.kohls.com
K-Mart
1623 N Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL
www.kmart.com
Directions to Chicago Attractions
For directions to the B&B, see directions page.
See http://www.rtachicago.com/ for more information on city trains, buses and RTA. The RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) includes Metra trains to the suburbs and PACE suburban buses.
Adler Planetarium
1300 N. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL
http://www.adlerplanetarium.org/
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown (make sure you put in enough money for a transfer if you are not using a daily pass), and get off at Jackson. Walk one block East (you can do this underground by following the signs to the Red Line and then exit upstairs to State St.) and catch #146 Bus to the Field Museum.
Driving: Drive East on Webster and get on I-I-90/94 West (The Kennedy Expressway). Travel on the Expressway for 3.4 miles. Exit at Congress (290 Eisenhower East changes into Congress). Follow Congress until it dead ends at Columbus (Buckingham Fountain). Take a right on Columbus and it will merge into Lake Shore Drive. Take South Lake Shore Drive (US-41) past Grant Park. Continue south until the 18th street Exit. Turn left on 18th street and continue as it bends left, becoming Museum Campus Drive. Entrance to the parking garage will be on your left on Museum Campus Dr.
All parking on the Museum Campus is owned by the Chicago Park District and managed by Standard Parking. Parking is available in the lot to the south of the Adler. The cost is $15 per car on non-event days, higher on days when Park District sponsored special events occur around the Museum Campus. The lot is CASH ONLY! On Chicago Bears' home game days all Museum Campus parking has been pre–sold by the Chicago Park District to game ticket holders. During other major events at Soldier Field, Museum Campus–area parking lots may be unavailable to museum visitors.
More information about parking on special event days can be found on soldierfieldparking.com
Art Institute of Chicago
111 S Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 443-3600
www.artic.edu
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown and get off at Monroe, walk three blocks east to Michigan Ave. and turn right. The Art Institute will be on the left (east) side of the street at the corner of Michigan & Adams.
Driving: Travel east on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Continue on I-90/94 East for 3.4 miles, then exit at Ohio St. Follow Ohio St. about 1 mile to Michigan Ave. Turn right on Michigan Ave. and drive about a mile. The Art Institute will be on the left (east) side of the street at the corner of Michigan & Adams. I recommend parking in the Millennium Park parking garage, which is easily accessible from the center of Michigan Ave.
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL (708) 485-0263
www.brookfieldzoo.org
Public Transportation: It would be about a $30 taxi ride for this long trip, but it is possible to make it there using public transportation. Walk to the Western stop on the Blue line and get on the train headed towards 54th & Cermak. Get off at the end of the line at 54th & Cermak and transfer to the Pace bus #304. Get off the Pace bus at 31st and 1st Ave. and walk 0.2 miles West to the Zoo Entrance.
Driving: Travel East on Webster St. and get on 90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Take the I-290 W exit 51H-I to West Suburbs/Chicago Loop—go 9.7 miles. Take exit 20 to 1st Ave., and then turn left at S 1st Ave. Continue on 1st Ave. Turn right at Ridgewood then quickly bear right at Washington Ave. Finally, turn right at Golf Rd and go 0.2 miles to the entrance.
Downtown (The Loop)
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line toward 54th-Cermak/Forest Park (away from O'Hare) and get off at any stop between Clark and LaSalle.
Driving: Drive East on Webster and get on I-90/94 West (The Kennedy Expressway). Travel on I-90/94 West for 3.4 miles. Downtown exits start at Ohio St. (River North, Navy Pier and Magnificent Mile), and east bound exits are Washington (100N), Monroe (100S), Jackson (300S), and Congress (500S) I-290 Eisenhower East changes into Congress Street.
You might find street parking to the west, but it is extremely difficult to find any street parking east of Michigan Ave. Most of the parking garages are also west of Michigan Ave. Parking is usually $15 minimum to as much as $45 for a few hours.
Field Museum of Natural History
1400 S Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL (312) 922-9410
www.fieldmuseum.org
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown (make sure you put in enough money for a transfer if you are not using a daily pass), and get off at Jackson. Walk one block east (you can do this underground by following the signs to the Red Line and then exit upstairs to State St.) and catch #146 Bus to the Field Museum.
Driving: Drive east on Webster and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Travel on I-90/94 East for 3.4 miles. Exit at Congress (I-290 Eisenhower East changes into Congress). Follow Congress until it dead ends at Columbus (Buckingham Fountain). Take a right on Columbus and it will merge into Lake Shore Drive. Take Lake Shore Drive (US-41) South past Grant Park. Continue south until the 18th street Exit. Turn left on 18th street and continue as it bends left, becoming Museum Campus Drive. Entrance to the parking garage will be on your left on Museum Campus Drive.
Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District
951 Chicago Ave. Oak Park, IL (708) 848-1976
www.wrightplus.org
Public Transportation: Walk to the Western stop on the Blue line and get on the train headed towards the Loop. Get off at Clark and transfer to a Green Line train heading towards Harlem/Lake. Get off at the second from the last stop—Oak Park. Walk north on Oak Park Ave. until you reach Chicago Ave. Take a left (West) on Chicago and walk until 951.
Driving Directions: Travel East on Webster St. and get on 90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Take the I-290 W exit 51H-I to West Suburbs/Chicago Loop. Take the IL-43 exit 21B. Turn right at Harlem Ave/S Harlem Ave. Continue on N Harlem. Turn right at Chicago Ave., and then turn right at Forest Ave.
Grant Park
337 E. Randolph St. Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 742-7648
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/
This is where all the downtown festivals are held. Many other events take place here, including Summer Movies (Tuesday night).
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown and get off at Washington, walk three blocks east to Michigan Ave.
Driving: Travel East on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Continue on the Expressway for 3.4 miles, then exit at Ohio St. Follow Ohio St. about 1 mile to Michigan Ave. Turn right on Michigan Ave and go .75 miles, and you will find the park on the left (East) side of the street starting at the corner of Michigan & Randolph. I recommend parking in the Grant Park parking garage, which is easily accessible from Michigan Ave.
The Loop (Downtown)
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line toward 54th/Cermack or Forest Park (away from O'Hare) and get off at any stop between Clark and LaSalle.
Driving: Drive East on Webster and get on I-90/94 West (The Kennedy Expressway). Travel on the Expressway for 3.4 miles. Downtown exits start at Ohio St. (River North, Navy Pier and Magnificent Mile), and East Bound exits are Washington (100N), Monroe (100S), Jackson (300S), and Congress (500S) 290 Eisenhower East changes into Congress street.
Magnificent Mile
www.themagnificentmile.com
Michigan Avenue between the Chicago River (~400 North) and Oak Street (1000 north). Oak Street, between Michigan Ave and Rush St., is Chicago's Rodeo Dr.Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown and get off at Washington, walk three blocks east to Michigan Ave. and turn left. The Magnificent Mile officially starts four blocks north once you cross the Chicago River. You can also take the Blue Line to Clark and transfer onto the Red Line, then take the Red Line North towards Howard, getting off at either Grand or Chicago. From either Red Line stop you walk east towards Lake Michigan to get to the Magnificent Mile.
Driving: Travel east on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Continue on I-90/94 East for 3.4 miles, then exit at Ohio St. Follow Ohio St. about 1 mile to Michigan Ave. You will be in the middle of the Magnificent Mile. You might find street parking to the west, but it is extremely difficult to find any street parking east of Michigan Ave. Most of the parking garages are also west of Michigan Ave.
McCormick Place
2301 S Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL (312) 791-6300
www.mccormickplace.com
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown (towards 54-Cermak/Forest Park) Make sure you put in enough money for a transfer if you are not using a daily pass. Get off at Washington. Walk three blocks east to Michigan Ave. and catch the #3 bus to McCormick Place.
Parking: There are two main parking lots on the McCormick Place campus. Both are in close proximity and walking distance to the convention complex. Events in Lakeside Center and Arie Crown Theater designate Lot C as the primary parking location, while events in the North and South Buildings designate Lot A garage as the primary parking location. Lot C is an underground garage with 1,900 parking spaces and is located on Ft. Dearborn Drive, adjacent to the Lakeside Center. Lot A is a six level garage with an adjacent surface lot and is located directly across from the Grand Concourse/Gate 4. Covered walkways from Lot A leading directly into McCormick Place and the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel.
Driving:
LOT A: Travel east on Webster and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Travel about 6 miles and exit at I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway) and Lake Shore Drive. Exit at Martin L. King Drive (Exit #293D) and follow signs to Lot A.
LOT C:
Go east on Webster and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy). Go about 6 miles and exit I-55 North (Stevenson Expressway) and Lake Shore Drive and follow signs onto US-41 South (Lake Shore Drive). Exit at 31st St. and turn left over the Lake Shore Dr. Bridge to Ft. Dearborn Drive. Turn left and follow signs to Lot C.
Millennium Park
222 N Columbus Dr. Chicago, IL (312) 861-9503
www.millenniumpark.org
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown (towards 54-Cermak/Forest Park) and get off at Washington. Walk three blocks east to Michigan Ave.
Driving: Travel east on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Continue on I-90/94 East for 3.4 miles, then exit at Ohio St. Follow Ohio St. about 1 mile to Michigan Ave. Turn right on Michigan Ave. and go .75 miles, and you will find the park on the left side (east) of the street starting at the corner of Michigan & Randolph. I recommend parking in the Millennium Park parking garage, which is easily accessible from the center of Michigan Ave.
Museum of Science & Industry
57th Street and Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL (773) 684-1414
www.msichicago.org
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown and get off at Washington. Walk one block east (you can do this underground by following the signs to the Red Line and then exit upstairs to State St.). From downtown Chicago, there are several ways to reach the Museum by bus.
• Take the #2 Hyde Park Express south to 57th and Stony Island and walk 1 block east to the Museum.
• Take the #6 Jackson Park Express bus south to 56th Street and walk 1 block south to the Museum.
• Take the #28 Stony Island Express south to 56th and Hyde Park Boulevard and walk 1 block south to the Museum.
• Take the #10 Museum of Science and Industry bus which runs every day during the summer and weekends-only the rest of the year.
Driving: Travel East on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Exit at the Stevenson/Lake Shore Drive exit and stay to the left. Follow the signs to Lake Shore Drive. Head south on Lake Shore Drive and turn right onto 57th Street. Get in the left lane and follow 57th Street around to the Museum's west side. Turn left to enter the Museum's underground garage.
Navy Pier
600 E Grand Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 595-7437
www.navypier.com
Public transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown and get off at Washington. Walk one block east (you can do this underground by following the signs to the Red Line and then exit upstairs to State St.) At State St. catch the #29 Bus (north).
Navy Pier Free Trolley Service: The Illinois-Grand Corridor Transportation Management Association (TMA) offers FREE daily trolley service between Navy Pier and State St. along Grand Ave. and Illinois St. Current trolley hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sundays 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Trolleys typically run every 20 minutes and pick-up points are indicated by 'Navy Pier Trolley Stop' signs along the route. For more information on the TMA, please visit www.tylin.com/chicago/tma.
Driving: Travel east on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Exit Ohio St., then turn right (south) on Orleans to Illinois Street and turn left (east) and continue east on Illinois.
Shedd Aquarium
1200 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL (312)939-2438
www.sheddaquarium.org
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line toward 54th-Cermak/Forest Park (away from O'Hare) and get off at the Washington stop. Exit the station and you will be on the corner of Washington and Dearborn. Transfer to the Southbound #14 Jeffery Express bus on the corner of Washington and Dearborn and get off at the Museum Campus Bus Stop. Shedd will be visible from the stop--it is a large white stone building with columns right on the shores of Lake Michigan. Walk the 0.3 miles to the aquarium from the bus stop.
Driving: Travel east on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 E (The Kennedy Expressway). Continue on I-90/94 East until exit #51H-I, the I-290 W. Eisenhower Expressway/Congress Pkwy. towards West Suburbs/Chicago Loop. Merge onto Eisenhower Expressway East. After the Eisenhower becomes W. Congress Pkwy. (about half a mile), take a slight right onto E. Congress Dr. A series of quick turns follows: right onto S. Columbus Dr., left on E. Balbo Dr. Finally, take a right onto S. Lake Shore Dr. and follow the signs for Museum Campus Parking. Visitor parking in all lots on the Museum Campus is $15.00 per day on all non-event days. There is a $10 early bird rate available to cars that arrive before 9:30 a.m. and leave before 9:00 p.m. This includes the Adler Lot, the North Garage, the Waldron Garage and the East Museum Lot. Winter hours for the North Garage are 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; East Museum lot 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Adler lot 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Handicapped parking is available in every parking lot. Please note: these hours and rates are for daytime only and do not apply when special events are scheduled at the museums or Soldier Field. For special event parking or during museum events, please contact the host museum directly.
Soldier Field
1410 S. Museum Campus Drive Chicago, IL (312) 235-7000
www.chicagobears.com
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line to downtown (make sure you put in enough money for a transfer if you are not using a daily pass) and get off at Jackson. Walk one block North to Randolph and then walk east past Michigan Ave. to the Millennium Park Garage and catch the free shuttle to Soldier Field.
Driving: Travel east on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Exit at Congress (I-290 Eisenhower East changes into Congress). Follow Congress until it dead-ends at Columbus (Buckingham Fountain). Take a right on Columbus and it will merge into Lake Shore Drive. Take Lake Shore Drive (US-41) south past Grant Park. Continue south until the 18th street exit. Turn left on 18th street and continue as it bends left, becoming Museum Campus Drive. Drop-offs are NOT allowed on game day.
Parking: Please call the Standard Parking Customer Service Hotline at (312) 583-9153 or visit ChicagoBears.com, soldierfield.net or soldierfieldparking.com for additional information. Fans are strongly encouraged to park in the East Monroe Street or Millennium Park Garages and utilize the free stadium shuttle. Free shuttles begin running from these garages five hours prior to kickoff. The shuttle is accessible from street level at upper Randolph Street, and the drop-off is at 18th Street. After the game, shuttles will be stationed at 18th Street to return fans to the East Monroe Street and Millennium Park Garages. The shuttle ride is approximately 10 minutes. Due to excessive crowds following the game, fans taking the shuttle may experience minor delays. There are also a limited number of free shuttles for the 31st Street McCormick Place Lot to and from 18th Street. We ask that our patrons be respectful of the neighborhood surrounding Soldier Field. Most of the area is residential “zone” parking and is subject to citation. Tailgating is allowed on all surface lots and on the upper level of the Waldron Deck. Drop-off and pick-up on the Museum Campus roadways is prohibited.
United Center
1901 W Madison St. Chicago, IL (312) 455-4500
www.unitedcenter.com
Public Transportation: Walk straight out the door down Webster Ave. to Damen Ave. and catch the southbound #50 Damen Ave. bus about 3 miles to The United Center.
Driving: Travel east on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Exit at Madison Ave. (west) and continue about one mile. The United Center will be on your left. You can also drive straight south on Damen Ave. for about three miles and it will be on your left.
US Cellular Field
Home of the 2005 World Series Champion Chicago White Sox
333 West 35th St. Chicago, IL (312) 674-1000
chicago.whitesox.mlb.com
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line toward 54th/Cermak Forest Park (away from O'Hare) and get off at Washington. Transfer to the Red Line (southbound) 95th/Dan Ryan train to Sox-35th St. station. Walk west one block to U.S. Cellular Field.
Driving: Travel East on Webster St. and get on I-90/94 East (The Kennedy Expressway). Exit at 35th St.
Wrigley Field
Home of the hopeless Cubs
1060 W Addison St. Chicago, IL (773) 404-2827
chicago.cubs.mlb.com
Public Transportation: Take the Blue Line toward 54th/Cermak Forest Park (away from O'Hare) and get off at Jackson. Transfer to the Red Line (Northbound) to Howard and get off at Addison. Wrigley is visible from the "L" stop.
You can also take the Damen Ave bus north to Addison and then the Addison Bus east, but right before the game Addison is pretty jammed and you'll walk faster.
Driving: Drive east on Webster St. and take a left on Damen Ave. Drive about 2 miles to Addsion and take a right. Drive another 1.5 miles and Wrigley will be visible on your left, at the corner of Clark and Addison. Parking in this area during game time is expensive and street parking is not allowed.
Shuttle Bus: You can drive to Addison & Western, park in the designated lot and take a free shuttle to the game.
Drug Stores
Walgreen’s
2001 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-2370
www.walgreens.com
1520 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 929-8340
For prescriptions (773) 929-6968
Target
2656 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-1994
www.target.com
Braun Drugs
2060 N. Clark Chicago, IL (773) 549-0634
Small ma & pa type store that is less expensive than Walgreen’s on every item I have checked. Love the small businesses.
Dry Cleaner
Larkspur
2123 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-2898
www.larkspurchicago.com
1st Rose
2219 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-0556
Fruit Flowers
2148 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 528-3784 or 877-80-FRUIT (37848)
Exactly as the name suggests, this alternative to a florist makes bouquets out of artfully cut fruits & veggies.
www.fruitflowers.com
Asrai Garden
1935 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 782-0680
To order flowers by phone I always use Bunches: (773) 975-2444
Grocery stores
Grisel & Junior
Corner of Leavitt St. & Armitage Ave. (773) 276-2919
Fri-Sat (10am-Midnight); Mon-Thu (10am-11pm); Sun (11am-11pm)
Danny’s (formerly Jimenez)
2140 N. Western Ave.
Closest full grocery store. Hispanic food market with great prices and a busy meat department.
Treasure Island
2121 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 880-8880
Upscale grocery store. You can get absolutely anything you need. Great produce department.
www.treasureisland.com
Stanley’s
1558 N Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-8050
Just east of the Kennedy Expressway. Long time fruit and vegetable stand that has grown into a giant fruit and vegetable store. Great prices and good selection, Be careful of the “it seems too good to be true” prices.
Whole Foods
1000 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 587-0648
Upscale holistic style grocery store. Great salad bar and other foods to go. Great selection of bulk food for cheap prices. Everything else -- not so cheap. Great organic fruits and vegetables, especially if cost is no concern. Great deli, food to go, and meat department.
www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Trader Joes
1840 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 274-9733
Cheap prices with an interesting, if not very limited, selection of items. Definitely not your usual grocery store.
www.traderjoes.com
Gyms/Health Clubs
Bucktown Fitness Club
2100 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-3455
www.bucktownfitness.com
Midtown Tennis Club
2020 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-1392
Fullerton/Damen/Elston.
www.midtownclubs.com
The Movement Studio
1811 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-0484
Gyrotonic and Pilates Mat Classes.
www.themovementstudio.com
Ladies Workout Express-Bucktown
1722 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-0600
Elliptical equipment, 20 station interval circuit training, adjustable hydraulic equipment, sunlight infrared sauna, no plateauing, all ages and fitness levels.
www.ladiesworkoutexpress.com
Cheetah Gym
1934 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-5900
Besides workout machines, it has a juice bar, Internet café and classes in Yoga, Pilates, and general fitness classes.
www.cheetahgym.com
Hapkido
2743 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-8300
Tae Kwon Do and other martial arts. Named one of the top 10 schools in the US by the American Tae Kwon Do Federation and National Martial Arts Research Foundation.
www.hapkido.ws
Jazzercise at Holstein Park
2200 N. Oakley Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 742-7554
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:45 and Saturday mornings. Call Shannon Bradley at (773) 227-7167 or email smbjazz@yahoo.com for more information.
Hair Salons
Gro Salon
2119 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-1153
www.grosalon.com
Fringe
1437 N Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-1000
www.fringechicago.com
Details Salon & Spa
2537 W. Fullerton Ave. (312) 735-2119
Full service salon/spa.
www.detailssalonandspa.net
Visage
2100 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 732-0908s
Hair, nails and skin care.
Halo for Men
1655 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-8787
The Wax. The Buff. The Face. The Pimp.
www.halochicago.com
Plateau Blu
2064 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-4256
www.plateaublu.com
Martha’s Unisex Beauty Salon
2117 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-0069
Twisted Scissors
2001 N. Point St. Chicago, IL (773) 227-1077
Art + Science
1554 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 327-4247
www.artandsciencesalon.com
Karen Marie salon & Colour Parlor
1859 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-4003
Hardware Stores
Home Depot
2570 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 289-4615
www.HomeDepot.com
Menard’s
2601 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 880-5954
www.menards.com
Home Depot
1232 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-0829
www.HomeDepot.com
Hospitals
St. Mary’s
2233 W. Division St. Chicago, IL (312) 770-2000
www.st,kmaryservices.com
Ice cream
Margie’s
1960 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-1035
Western Ave. and Armitage Ave. A Chicago classic – all ice cream and candies are homemade. Classic 50's style ice cream shop with booths and all the goodies your sweet tooth craves.
Check Please review
http://www.wttw.com/main.taf?erube_fh=cp&cp.submit.restaurantDetail=1&cp.id=80
Red June Coffee Shop
2020 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2600
6am-3pm daily
Coffees, breakfast, lunch and ice cream.
Cold Stone Creamery
1920 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-8476
I have some friends who swear it is the best ice cream in the world. You pick an ice cream flavor (some favorites are Sweet Cream and Oatmeal Cookie), and then pick ingredients to mix-in to create a custom flavor. They have custom creations ready to choose from if you just can't decide!
www.coldstonecreamery.com
Icream
1537 N. Milwaukee St. Chicago, IL (773) 991-5925
Liquid Nitrogen fired ice-cream made from scratch!
Internet Cafes
Windy City Cyber Café
2246 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-6470
www.windycitycafe.com
Cheetah Gym
1934 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-5900
Besides workout machines, it has a juice bar, Internet café and classes in Yoga, Pilates, and general fitness classes.
www.cheetahgym.com
Kid’s camp/Day School
My Corner Playroom
2121 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 388.2121
Open Play, Kid’s Camp, Day School, Night-Out, Music, Arts & Crafts, Private Party. www.MycornerPlayroom.com
Liquor Stores
Grisel & Junior
(773) 276-2919
At the corner of Leavitt St. and Armitage Ave.
Mostly beer, with a small wine selection. Basically a convenience store with food, newspapers, lottery tickets, etc.
Danny’s
2222 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-3622
Across the street from Think and Thai Eatery, both BYOB restaurants. Best wine selection within a few blocks.
Red and White Wines
1861 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-4769
Binny’s Beverage Depot (formerly Sam's Wines)
1720 N. Marcey St. Chicago, IL (312) 664-4394
Was the best liquor store in town-- especially the best selection of wines, so we'll see if it stays that way.
www.samswine.com
Wine Discount Center
1826 1/2 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-3454
Great selection, friendly staff, competitive pricing.
www.winediscountcenter.com
Massage
é Bella
1943 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2929
Manicure, pedicures, massages.
N.O.W. Massage
2141 W. Webster Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-5278
Peaceful, private space less than a block away. Nourhy Chiriboga specializes in Reflexology, Massage, CranioSacral Therapy, Lypossage, Pet-massage and more.
By appointment only.
Amber Spa
2040 W. Webster St. Chicago, IL (773) 252-5549
Very relaxing place nearby; offers a variety of services, including various skincare treatments like microdermabrasion and facials. Manicure, pedicures, massages.
www.amberspa.com
ASHA SALON/SPA
1808 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 292-1100
The largest and most extensive beauty shop in the neighborhood, offering a hair salon, manicures, pedicures, and massages.
www.ashasalonspa.com
Details Salon & Spa
2537 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 735-2119
Full service salon/spa.
www.detailssalonandspa.net
Nail Express
2036 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-1500
Nails, Massage, Facials and Waxing.
Spa Forever
1917 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-0000
Massage, skincare and waxing.
www.spaforever.com
Spa Soak
1733 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-9000
Massage, facials, body treatment, waxing, manicures and pedicures. www.spasoakchicago.com
Alternative Health Group, LLC
1834 W. North Ave. #1 Chicago, IL (773) 227-9150
Yoga, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Tai Chi and Clinical Massage.
|www.althealthgroup.com
Movie Rental
Blockbuster
1704 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 645-8044
www.blockbuster.com
Odd Obsession Movies
1822 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 645-8044
Facets Cinemateque
1517 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 281-2166
Alternative movies
www.facets.org
Movie Theaters
Webster Place Theater
1471 W. Webster St. Chicago, IL (773) 327-3100
Multiplex featuring mainstream movies. It's about 3/4 of a mile east on Webster.
www.kerasotes.com
AMC City North 14 Cinemas
2600 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-1601
Western Ave and the Kennedy Expressway. New Multiplex with lots of arcade type entertainment in the lobby. They also show mainstream movies. About 3/4 of a mile north on Western Ave.
www.kerasotes.com
Facets Cinemateque
1517 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 281-2166
Alternative/off beat. Very limited showings. 1 mile away.
www.facets.org
Pipers Alley
1608 N. Wells St. Chicago, IL (312) 642-7500
The front entrance is actually on North Ave. Alternative films, some high quality major motion pictures. 4 miles away.
Century Center Theaters
2828 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL (773) 509-4949
Top couple of floors of a shopping mall showing fine art, foreign, and alternative films. 4 miles away.
www.landmarktheatres.com
Other theaters that are relatively close:
Music Box
3733 N. Southport Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 871-6604
Davis
4614 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 784-0893
Alternative & unique theaters:
Gene Siskel Film Center
164 N. State St. Chicago, IL (312) 846-2800
Chicago Art Institute’s film center.
IMAX
Navy Pier (312) 595-5629
www.imax.com/chicago
OMNIMAX
Museum of Science & Industry (773) 684-1414
www.msichicago.org/omax/omaxhome.html
Nail Salons (see spas also)
Bien Assorti Nail Salon
2010 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-0897 or (773) 394-7097
Fax (773) 394-7113
Always seems to be busy. It has several massaging pedicure chairs with foot bath sinks. Mon/Tues/Wed $35 Mani-Pedi.
Details Salon & Spa
2537 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 735-2119
Full service salon/spa.
www.detailssalonandspa.net
Nail Express
2036 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-1500
Nails, Massage, Facials and Waxing.
Visage
2100 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-0771
Hair, Nails and Skin Care
Nail Gallery
1954 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-3788
Mon/Tues/Wed $34 Mani-Pedi.
Newspapers
We get the Chicago Tribune delivered every day.
www.chicagotribune.com
Chicago Sun-Times: The other major daily newspaper, available at Grisel’s Convenience Store (Armitage Ave. & Leavitt St.).
www.suntimes.com
The Chicago Reader: Free alternative weekly newspaper with great movie reviews & information, want ads, and other neat stuff. There is usually a copy around the B&B. It comes out on Thursday evenings. The Chicago Reader is available at many places including The Charleston and Treasure Island. It is also available on-line Thursday evening.
www.chicagoreader.com
New York Times: Available at 7-Eleven, 2010 N. Damen Ave., (773) 486-1259.
www.nytimes.com
New City: Another free alternative weekly newspaper Available at a few places, including Whole Foods.
www.newcitychicago.com
The Red Eye: Put out by the Chicago Tribune, a weekly fluff piece that’s usually not worth your time.
www.redeye.chicagotribune.com
The Onion: If you appreciate satirical humor then this is your weekly newspaper. Available at The Charleston (Charleston & Hoyne) and many other places.
www.theonion.com
Office Supplies
Office Depot
2928 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 868-6161
www.officedepot.com
OfficeMax
1829 W. Fulleron Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 665-2053
www.officemax.com
Staples
2484 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-8084
www.staples.com
Parks (In the hood)
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
Holstein Park — Beautiful old field house, public swimming pool, softball fields, and many activities. Senior Citizens Park across the street with small area for picnics, etc. Home to the annual Bucktown Art Fest.
Wicker Park — Small little park one block south of Damen/Milwaukee/North intersection.
Humboldt Park — 1 1/2 miles southwest. Beautiful large park with old field houses, swimming ponds, biking and jogging trails, tennis courts and much more.
Pharmacy (see drug stores)
Pilates
Core in Motion
Sandra Samman, Instructor (312) 282-0322
Private lessons available
Sandra@coreinmotion.com
www.coreinmotion.com
The Movement Studio
1811 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-0484
Gyrotonic and Pilates Mat Classes.
www.themovementstudio.com
Frog Temple
1749 N. Damen Ave. 2nd Floor Chicago, IL (773) 489-0890
www.frogtemple.com
Innergy
2041 W. Dickens St. Chicago, IL (773) 456-9690
A clubhouse in Bucktown that offers Yoga, Pilates, Alternative Health,
Life Coaching, etc.
www.innergy.us
Cheetah Gym
1934 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-5900
Besides workout machines, it has a juice bar, Internet café and classes in Yoga, Pilates, and general fitness classes.
www.cheetahgym.com
Public Transportation
We have route maps available. You can find directions to anywhere in Chicago at www.rtachicago.com in the Trip Planner section.
Trains & Buses are both operated by the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) and work together. You can get one, three, and seven day Visitors Passes at both O’Hare & Midway. We try and stock them, but if you know for sure you want them, pick them up at the kiosk before you enter the train. Basic fare on the trains is $2.25 and buses is $2 ($2.25 cash). The driver will not make change when you board a bus, so bring singles or buy a variable amount transit card at any "L" train station automated kiosk. For trains, simply walk up to a kiosk and buy a transit card. There are attendants at most stations that can help you, but the kiosks are fairly simple to understand. Cash only though-they do not take credit cards.
Trains
The intercity trains are referred to as the “EL or “L” (for elevated), and each line is color-coded. We are located near the Western stop of the Blue Line that runs between Downtown (referred to as The Loop) and O’Hare International Airport.Please be aware the there is another Western stop on the Blue Line on the southwest side of Chicago. The Blue Line train runs 24 hours
If you need to get to either Midway, O’Hare, The Loop, or anywhere else in Chicago, you can walk to the Blue Line stop at Western (it has an elevator for your heavy suitcases). Take a right out of the B&B onto Leavitt St. heading south. When you reach Armitage Ave (4 blocks), turn right (west). When you get to Western Ave turn left (south- there will be a McDonald’s just to the south). At this point you should be able to see the train tracks running over Western Ave. The entrance to the station is on the left side (east) of Western Ave.
If you are coming from O'Hare Airport (www.ohare.com) you can jump on the Blue Line (follow the signs at O"Hare for CTA/City trains—Blue line is the only CTA train at O'Hare).Get off at the first Western stop (between Damen and California). When you exit the Western stop, walk north on Western Ave. (take a right out of the station) past McDonald’s, then take a right (east) onto Armitage Ave. Walk two blocks to N. Leavitt St. (traffic light) and turn left (north). Continue on Leavitt for 4 1/2 blocks to 2144 N. Leavitt St. You will find the B&B on the left (west) side of the street where Webster St. dead-ends
If you are coming from Midway Airport (www.chicago-mdw.com), follow the signs for the CTA/City trains. Get on the Orange Line (the only CTA train that goes to Midway). Transfer from the Orange Line to the Blue Line at the Clark stop. Make sure you get on a Blue Line train headed to O'Hare. Transfers between train lines are free.
Get off at the Western stop (between Damen and California). When you exit the Western stop, walk North on Western Ave. (take a right out of the station) past McDonald’s, then take a right (east) onto Armitage Ave. Walk two blocks to N. Leavitt St. (traffic light) and turn left (north). Continue on Leavitt for 4 1/2 blocks to 2144 N. Leavitt St. You will find the B&B on the left (west) side of the street where W. Webster St. dead-ends.
.
Although further away from the B&B, you can get off at the Damen stop, which puts you in the heart of the Wicker Park/Bucktown entertainment area (Damen/North/Milwaukee). This is a great area to wander, shop, kill some time, or find a unique restaurant. To get to the B&B from the Damen stop, take a left (north) out of the station and walk 3/4 of a mile (or catch the #50 Damen bus) to W. Webster St. (2200 N) and turn left. Walk 1/4 mile until Webster dead-ends. You will see the B&B's yellow sign at 2144 N. Leavitt St. You will pass about 20-25 restaurants on Damen Ave alone if you get hungry on your walk. There are restaurants in all directions from the Damen/North/Milwaukee intersection.
Buses
Buses run on almost every major North-South street (Damen Ave. and Western Ave. being the two closest to us) and major East-West street (Armitage Ave. and Fullerton Ave.). The advantage of buses is that you can see more of the city, and they stop more often than trains. For complete bus routes, consult a CTA Map, available at the Front Desk or any "L" Station.
Suburban Trips
There are commuter trains (the Metra line has a station at Armitage and Ashland, 1.5 miles away) and bus routes under the RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) called PACE. Train service to the suburbs is great where available, but bus service is spotty at best. Just be aware the CTA Visitor Passes are NOT valid on the Metra or suburban bus routes (PACE).
Amtrak
I have personally become a fan of train travel in America. Chicago is a major hub, serving most major cities throughout the country. Amtrak comes into Union station (downtown Chicago). It’s about a $12 cab ride to my place, or you can take the Blue Line “L”. Exit Union Station on Canal Street and turn left (south) and then turn right (west) on Jackson. Go one block to Clinton and turn left and walk 2 blocks to the Clinton Blue line stop. Catch the Blue Line toward O’Hare and get off at the Western Ave stop. (See Public Transportation above for more details).
Info is available at Amtrak.com or by calling (800) 872-7245
Reckless Records
1532 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-3727
CDs along with current and old vinyl. One of three Reckless Records in town. www.reckless.com
Restaurants
Delivery:
There are literally hundreds of restaurants that deliver diverse cuisines. Delivery menus are located in a black notebook that is divided by cuisine with our favorite places. You can also check-out GrubHub.com for hundreds of menus and online ordering.
Dining out:
Oh, where to begin! There are thousands of great restaurants in Chicago. www.metromix.com is a good web site for city restaurants.
If you would like a neighborhood restaurant, you will find my restaurant reviews below. We have a menu book with menus from every neighborhood restaurant kept on the brochure ledge in the living room,
DAMEN AVE
Bristol
2152 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-5555
Moderately priced great Midwestern food with Mediterranean roots. Small, medium and large plates with small and communal table.
www.thebristolchicago.com
Duchamp
2118 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-6434
Moderately priced great food with small eclectic menu.
www.duchamp-chicago.com
Toast
2046 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-5600
Breakfast is their specialty, although they do serve lunch. Great selection and always busy on the weekends.
Coast Sushi Bar
2045 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-5775
We've eaten there on many occasions and the food and ambiance is always wonderful. Great reviews from all of the guests that we send there as well. Try the white dragon roll, it's a house favorite.
www.coastsushibar.com
Babylon
2033 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-7482
Middle-Eastern food with causal service. We've enjoyed everything we have had there.
Los Rosales
2032 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-6321
It is closed for months at time. Not sure if it is going to open back up.
Nick’s Pit Stop
2011 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-9736
Some say the best grilled chicken in town, along with basic sides. Always busy.
My Pie Pizza and Li'L Guys Deli
2010 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-6900
Great sandwiches, salads and the best pan pizza in the neighborhood. Run by the son of the original owner of the My Pie pizza chain.
Le Bouchon
1958 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-6600
Country French (Provencal). A jewel of a restaurant. Small and almost always full, this place received great reviews since it opened. I love the roasted duck!
www.lebouchonofchicago.com
Check Please review
http://www.wttw.com/main.taf?erube_fh=cp&cp.submit.restaurantDetail=1&cp.id=103
Takashi
1952 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-6170
Contemporary French with Japanese influence.
George’s Hot Dog
1876 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-4034
The neighborhood hotdog joint. I love their sign: "Eat in or take your dog for a walk"
10-8 Monday - Saturday
Miko’s Italian Ice
1846 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 645-9664
Lemon Ice is the #1 flavor but they also offer a variety of other fun flavors. They also serve slushies and iced coffee. Not open in the winter.
Bucktown Soup Kitchen
1840 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 904-8364
I counted 30 different soups on the menu!.
http://www.bucktownsoupcafe.com
The Bluebird
1749 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-2473
More than just your basic pub grub. Good food and fun vibe. Also known as a wine bar.
www.bluebirdchicago.com
Hot Chocolate
1747 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-1747
American Contemporary. The name is Hot Chocolate, but they serve up much more than just delicious desserts in this urban cafe! Their seasonal menu changes often, with plenty of sweet and savory choices for dinner, and of course, dessert. Also serves brunch on weekends.
www.hotchocolatechicago.com
Chipotle
1733 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL
Open 11am to 10pm daily. Mexican fast food on the upscale side. I have always liked their food.
www.chipotle.com
Caffe De Luca
1721 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-6000
Mon-Fri (6am-9pm); Sat-Sun (7am-9pm Kitchen open (7am-4pm)
Coffee shop, food and bar. A really nice comfortable place with great food and great décor.
www.caffedeluca.com
Clarke's Diner
1704 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL
Open 24hrs with comfort food.
Silver Cloud Comfort Food
1700 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-6212
Boasts childhood favorites like sloppy joes and mac & cheese, with a twist. Has outdoor seating in the summer.
www.silvercloudchicago.com
HomeMade Pizza Co.
1953 W. Wabansia St. Chicago, IL (773) 342-9600
Fresh uncooked pizza made to order from the best ingredients available. Pick it up and bake it fresh at the B&B. Try the one with sausage, sage and carmelized onions! Very popular with the locals.
www.homemadepizza.com
Lincoln Tavern
1858 W. Wabansia Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-7778
Overshadowed by Club Lucky one block away, this neighborhood bar serves simple food that’s great for the price.
Club Lucky
1824 W. Wabansia Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2300
Popular and comfortable Italian place. Great grilled calamari, lamb chops, and many other great dishes. Also boasts a great bar that is ideal for events.
www.clubluckychicago.com
Dairy Queen
1649 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 321-2041
The Goddess and Grocer
1646 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-3200
Deli/Takeout/Grocer. Great sandwiches, very elaborate selection of sides & salads (some organic options).
www.goddessandgrocer.com
Cans Bar and Canteen
1640 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2277
Primarily a bar with appetizers, salads, sandwiches and comfort foods. Saturday and Sunday Brunch and a "build your own bloody mary" bar.
www.cansbar.com
The Northside Bar & Grille
1635 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-3555
First established in Lincoln Park and then opened this location in the 90's. Informal dining and bar that is always busy on the weekends.
www.northsidechicago.com
Potbelly
1625 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-5501
Toasted sandwiches served inside an old firehouse. Try "The Wreck" with everything on it. A lot of people love this place.
www.potbelly.com
Caoba Mexican Bar & Grill
1619 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-2622
Upscale Mexican, partly owned by Trattoria 31. Serves lunch and dinner.
www.caobachicago.com
Feast
1616 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-7100
Upscale American. Great food.
www.feastrestaurant.com
Underdog
1570 1/2 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-2423
Underneath Flash Taco. Neighborhood hotdog stand that’s been around for a while at the Damen/North/Milwaukee intersection. Try their char dog or char cheddar dog. www.underdoggbucktown.com
Flash Taco
1570 N. Damen Chicago, IL (773) 772-1997
Sun-Thu (10am-4am); Fri-Sat (10am-5am)
Neighborhood taco joint — been around for a while at the Damen/North/Milwaukee intersection.
www.flashtaco.com
Skewerz
1560 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-9806
Meats & vegetables on a stick with healthy sides.
Blue Line Club Car
1548 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-3700
Dinner only. Right under the Damen Blue Line stop.Beautiful wrap around bar.
Capollina
1543 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-1167
Mon-Sat (8am-7pm); Sun (8am-4pm)
Italian Deli/Expresso Bar with Italian style sub sandwiches and pastries.
www.milkandhoneycafe.com
Penny’s Noodle Shop
1542 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-0100
Inexpensive noodles and Asian dishes with lots of healthy options.
www.pennysnoodleshop.com
Lou Malnati’s
1520 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-2400
Delivery/Take-Out only
Chicago based chain that’s been around since 1971.
www.loumalnatis.com
Big Star
1531 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773)235-4039)
Former Pontiac space, opening to great reviews. Upscale Mexican food at casual restaurant prices. Fish tostadas and goat tacos are two of their many recommended items
ARMITAGE AVE
Rinconcito Sudamericano
Now has merged with Rio's
Peruvian food. Another one of the neighborhood places that has been around for many years (since 1980). Has had great food and service over the years.
www.rinconcitosudamericanoinc.com
Rio's D'Sudamerica
2010 W. Armitage Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-0170
Tue-Thu (5pm-11pm); Fri (5pm-12am); Sat (4pm-2am); Sun (4pm-10pm) South American food with a nightclub feel. Great food, with everything from steaks from Argentina to fish dishes from Peru. Now has merged with Rinconcito Sudamericano, their Peruvian Restaurant from down the street. Only place in the neighborhood that can come close to Café LaGuardia’s Mojito. Live Music on Saturday night.
www.riosdesudamerica.com
Cleo’s
2048 W. Armitage Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-6700
Comfort food and sports bar. Serves food until 1am
www.cleoschicago.com
Café Laguardia
2111 W. Armitage Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-5996
Mon-Sat (11am-11pm); Sun (12pm-8pm) A great Cuban restaurant that started small and has recently expanded. Everything on the menu is excellent. I am a simple man with Cuban food—with black bean soup I am a happy camper!. Love their Cuban Nachos made with plantains. The best Mojitos I have ever had. Live music Tuesday nights 8-11.
www.cafelaguardia.co
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Red June Coffee Shop
2020 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2600
6am-3pm daily
Coffees, breakfast, lunch and ice cream.
Floyd’s Pub
1944 N. Oakley Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-6060
Corner of Armitage Ave. & Oakley Ave. Great old Schultz Globe brick work on the front of the building. Bar that serves food until 1am.
Sam’s Red Hots's
One-half block east of Western on Armitage.
Hotdog shack that’s been around for years.
NORTH AVE
Bon Bon Vietnamese Sandwiches
2333 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-5800
Thai Lagoon
2322 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-5747
Handlebar Bar & Grill
2311 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-9546
Interesting mixture of vegetarian (with some fish dishes), pub, and bicycle bar (free bike parking). Website offers free fries to bicycle messengers for Messenger Monday.
www.handlebarchicago.com
Pannenkoeken Cafe
2257 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-6600
Traditional Dutch Pancakes and other breakfast dishes.
Jay’s Italian Beef & Sausage
2255 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-2333
A notch above your typical Italian beef & sandwiches. They also serve milkshakes and homemade Italian lemonade.
Birchwood Kitchen
2211 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-2100
Great sandwiches from sustainable sources.
Sultan Market (Middle-Eastern)
2057 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-3072
Middle-Eastern. Excellant food served quickly via a deli-style steam table & salad bar with many grilled vegetarian options. . Excellent Middle-Eastern fare.
www.chicagofalafel.com
J.Wellington's
2045 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 687-9142
Specializing in burgers.
Spring
2041 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-7100
Upscale American. Located inside an old Russian bathhouse, gets great reviews.
www.springrestaurant.net
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Café Absinthe
1954 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-4488
Great food. Entrance in alleyway.
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Blue Fin
1952 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-7373
Sushi and other Japanesse entrees.
www.bluefinsushibar.com
Santullo’s Eatery
1943 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-7960
Pizza, sandwiches, soups, salads. Cozy little place offering sandwiches on freshly baked Italian rolls.
www.santullos.com
Piece
1927 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-4422
Pizzeria/Brewery. Large open space that includes a micro-brewery (several styles of beer), pizzeria and large screen TV’s --a sports bar feel.
www.piecechicago.com
Cooking Fools
1916 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-5565
Upscale Take-out/Catering/cooking school. The best-looking food in the Wicker Park/Bucktown area, and I am sure just as tasty. Very modern décor.
www.cookingfools.net
Lokal
1904 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 904-8113
Breakfst Brunch Dinner Late Night. Pan European cusine with great decor. bottomless mimosas and bloody marys brunch every Saturday and Sunday. Open 9am - 2am every day.
www.localchicago.com.
Zen Noodles
1852 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-8300
The location on Belmont is Sidney's favorite Thai restaurant-- hopefully this location is no different. Excellent Crab Rangoon and Curries (especially the Panang Curry).
www.zennoodles.com
The Southern (in the former Chaise Lounge space)
1840 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-1840
Reconfigured as a casual, affordable neighborhood spot with southern influences. .
www.chaiseloungechicago.com
Las Palmas
1835 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 289-4991
Upscale Mexican. Their marketing says they were Bucktown/Wicker Park’s restaurant of the Year 2003 and were featured on Check Please.
www.laspalmaschicago.net/
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Lucia’s Deli
1825 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 292-9700
A true Italian deli & Italian restaurant. Great Italian deli fare along with separate area for dining in and good reviews on their dinner.
Gallery Café
1760 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-8228
Coffee shop with art and great sandwiches
Just Indulge
1755 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-6680
Desert Cafe with great homemade custard
Crepe Crave
1752 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 698-8783
Parlor
1745 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 782-9000
Hollywood Grille
1601 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-1818
(North & Ashland) 24 hour Retro/Deco diner.
Basic diner grub, with breakfast served anytime.
www.hollywood-grill.com
ELSTON AVE
Cook Au Vin
2256 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-3141
A petite French grocery store and bakery selling crepes and baguette sandwiches.
Pizza Hut
1601 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-1700
www.pizzahut.com
Plazzio’s Pizza & Pasta
1901 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-8500
Dine-in, Carryout, or Delivery. Open until midnight on Fri-Sat, and 11pm on Mon-Thu.
Great true Italian subs and thin crust pizza.
Belly Shack
1912 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL
Asian and Latin influenced soup and sandwich focused menu in the former Vella's space. Very tasty and unique food.
McDonald’s
Western/Milwaukee.
Arturo's
2001 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-4944
Mexican. Been around for many years, some people have said this is their favorite place.
Lazo’s
2009 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-3303
24 Hour Mexican joint that has been around for about 25 years. My favorite Mexican restaurant when I first moved into the neighborhood-- and the food is still cheap and good. Watch their grill guy work at about the speed of light. They have a great rotisserie roasted chicken plate and giant burrito. Full bar and music on Friday, Saturday and Sundays.
Rosa De Lima Peruvian
2013-15 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-4557
Las Asadas
2045 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-5538
One of five in the Chicago area. Just moved across the street to this new space. Serves a fine basic taco.
Redhot Ranch
2070 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL
John’s Pizzeria Ristorante & Lounge
2104 N. Western Ave. (773) 384-1755
Family restaurant that’s been in the neighborhood since 1957. Delivers great thin-crust pizza till Midnight Sun-Thurs and till 1am Friday & Saturday.
Taqueria (inside Danny’s—formerly Jimenez)
2140 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL
Inside the grocery store, this small eatery is always packed. You'll think you’re in another country when you walk into the joint and view an array of beautiful trays of colorful food on their steam table. Giant tasty burritos at cheap prices.
Siboney Cuban Restaurant
2165 N. Western Ave. (773) 904-7210
New Cuban restaurant. Has some stiff competion with Cafe LaGuardia and Cafe Bolero. WIFI
Thai Eatery
2234 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-3035
Getting some good reviews on it's vegetarian options
Birrieria Estilo Jalisco
2230 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-8425
“Goatery”, serving goat dishes and a few other basic Mexican dishes. Get a whole goat (serves 40) for $200.
Honey 1 BBQ
2241 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-5130
Ribs, fish and chips, chicken wings and burgers. They claim to have the best BBQ sauce in town. Also serve unusual items like gizzards and okra.
www.honey1bbq.com
Café Bolero
2252 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-6407
Cuban along with a couple of Yugoslavian dishes (such as their homemade Cevapcici). Now under new management. Nice space with a back room and live music on some nights.
www.cafebolero.net
The Fullerton
2400 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-5500
Clean diner with cheap breakfasts. Good basic breakfast and lunch. Open for dinner.
Estrella Negra
2346 W. Fullerton Chicago, IL (773) 227-5993
New Mexican restaurant open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday
Fat Willy’s
2416 W. Schubert St. Chicago, IL 773) 782-1800
Across the street from City North 14. Amazing BBQ. Delivers
www.fatwillys.com
MILWAUKEE AVE
Lucky Number Grill
1931 N. Milwaukee Chicago, IL (773) 235-7761
Food-Spirts-Dancing
DJs & dancing on second floor Thurs/Fri/Sat and grill on first floor stays open until the bar closes (2am Thurs/Fri and 3am Sat).
Tea Essence
1913 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-2727
Free WIFI, afternoon tea Saturdays & Sundays, open mic Wednesday, live music Fridays and kids story time Sunday and Tuesday.
www.teaessence.biz
Irazu Costa Rican Dining
1865 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-5687
Great Costa Rican food, including Potato Taquitos and Fried Plantains. Small, popular family owned place.
www.irazuchicago.com
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Sterling Goss
1845 N. Oakley Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-7100
Sandwiches, wraps, paninis, soups and salads in this new specialty meat shop and deli.
www.sterlinggoss.com
Café Matou
1848 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-8911
Contemporary French. Featured on Check Please. Menu changes every night and
prix-fixe dinners available Sunday through Thursday.
www.cafematou.com
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Cafe Con Leche
1732 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-2233
Addicting coffee and tasty food" according to their sign.
www.cafeconlechebucktown.com
Mado
1647 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-2340
Getting amazing reviews for this husband / wife team
www.madorestaurantchicago.com
Wingstop
1637 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
www.mywingstop.com
Plan B Bar & Kitchen
1635 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-2680
Laid-back and unpretentious. Provides an interesting take on comfort food. Limited seating.
www.planb-chicago.com
Francesca's Forno
1576 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 770-0184
An offspring of the iconic Wrigleyville restaurant Mia Francesca. Excellent Italian.
www.miafrancesca.com
People Lounge
1560 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-9339
Spanish Tapas & World Music Lounge.
www.peoplechicago.com
Ear Wax
1561 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-4019
Daily 9am-10:30pm Healthy food with many vegetarian & vegan options. Been around the neighborhood for a long time.
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Bin Wine Cafe
1559 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-2233
Contemporary American. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Emphasis on seasonal ingredients and wine pairing.
www.binwinecafe.com
Taxim
1558 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-1558
Greek Tapas. Closed on Tuesdays.
Jimmy Johns
1557 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-0100
Sandwiches and delivery
Papajin
1551 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Carry-out / Delivery: Chicago, IL (773) 384-9600 Reservations (773) 384-9638
Great Chinese food for many years, great delivery. Recently added sushi bar.
www.papajin.com
Pint
1547 N. Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL (773) 772-0990
Modern Irish pub with flat screen TVs and high top tables for watching sports. Second floor lounge with comfy couches. Offers standard bar food and a weekend brunch buffet.
Crocodle
1540 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-0880
Free pizza while your drinking at this upscale bar that serves thin-crust pizza, paninis and salads.
Rodan
1530 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-7036
Mon-Thu (6pm-2am); Fri (5pm-2am); Sat (10am-3pm, 5pm-3am); Sun (10am-3pm, 5pm-2am) Full dinner until 11pm daily. Appetizers until 1am on Tue-Sat. South American, Asian, Eclectic & International is how it bills itself.
www.rodan.ws
Salud Tequila Lounge
1471 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 235-5577
Largest selection of 100% Agave Tequilas in Chicago. For the serious tequila lover. They serve food also.
www.saludlounge.com
Bongo Room
1470 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL
Great Breakfasts and lunches, relaxed atmosphere.
Ginbucks
1469 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-1439
Café Bionda
1467 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 342-2100
Italian flare. Sinatra style sounds and meat hook sized martinis.
www.cafebionda.com\
Cumin (Opening January hopefully)
1414 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL
Nepal/Indian
La Fonda Del Gusto
1408 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-6100
Family-owned Mexican BYOB.
Let's Go Diner
1393 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-7422
Pot Pan Thai
1362 N. Milwaukee Chicago, IL (773) 862-6990
Harold’s Chicken
1361 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-2424
This classic south side Chicago chain now in Wicker Park.
Milwood
1360 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-6000
Upscale pizza, burgers and more.
Between
1324 N. Milwaukee Chicago, IL (773) 292-0585
Upscale small plates.
Veggie Bite
1300 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 772-2483
100% Vegen fast food.
http://www.veggiebite.net
tocco
1266 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 687-8895
Made front cover of Chicago Magazine on their opening. Italian from pizza's to secondi with nice bar.
Blue Coral
1265 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-2020
Slick sushi den with massive menu but worth the distraction.
www.blucoralsushi.com
ASHLAND AVE
Orvieto at Green Dolphin Street
2200 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-0066
(Webster & Ashland). Casual Italian food and Jazz—Big Band venue. They offer a selection of live music almost every night.
www.jazzitup.com
Choppers
1659 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-7800
Hamburger-hotdog-fries joint that’s a cut above the rest.
Jane’s Restaurant
1655-53 W. Cortland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 862-JANE
Enjoy the sidewalk café. Now serving lunch, brunch and dinner.
www.janesrestaurant.com
Riverview Deli
1656 W. Cortland St. Chicago, IL (773) 278-3354
Been around serving great casual food for many years. Looks like a vintage general store, and has a great weekend brunch.
Taco & Burrito Express #3
1547 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-1830
Open 7 days a week, Friday & Saturday until 5am. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, dine-in and carry-out. Good prices.
Luc Thang Noodle
1524 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 395-3907
Thai and Chinese Cuisine. Dine-in, carry-out and delivery
Schwa Restaurant
1466 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-1466
New and very upscale with unusual flare for the taste buds. Call in advance as they book very quickly. BYOB. $5 corkage fee.
www.schwarestaurant.com
Marrakech
1413 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 227-6451
Inconspicuous gem serves up several hearty stews (with lamb, chicken or vegetarian) or the ever-popular grilled kebabs. Don't be thrown off by the mini-bazaar of Moroccan merchandise up front; carry on through the curtains to the richly hued dining room, boasting about fifteen wooden tables.
La Brochette
1401 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-5650 Delivery 276-5676 Pick Up
Moroccan & Mediterranean Cuisine.
La Pasadita Restaurant
1132, 1140 &1141 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-0384
Three store-front restaurants all just south of Division. Won best burrito in town contest. Popular late night place.
Shipping
UPS Store
1658 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 486-5700
www.theupsstore.com
FedEx
(800) 238-5355
www.fedex.com
Staffed Offices:
875 W. Division St. Chicago, IL (9.45pm last drop-off)
O’Hare office: (10pm last drop-off)
Drop-off:
Cole Taylor Bank 1965 N. Milwaukee Ave. (4pm last drop-off)
www.coletaylor.com
Copymax 1829 W. Fullerton Ave. (7pm last drop-off)
www.copymax.com
FedEx Kinko’s 1800 W. North Ave. (773) 395-4639 (8pm last drop-off)
www.fedex.kinkos.com
FedEx Kinko’s 2300 N. Clybourn (773) 665-7500 (8pm last drop-off)
Your Shoe Repair
2240 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-2245
Mon - Fri 10.30 - 7 Sat. 10 - 4.30
The Neighborhood -- Walk east on Webster Ave., turn right on Damen. Many unique boutiques and shops all the way down to Damen/North/Milwaukee. From there go either east on North Ave. or southeast on Milwaukee Ave.--Great stores, interesting shops and a few old holdouts of tacky furniture and cheap clothing stores. We have neighborhood street maps available at the front desk.
Magnificent Mile – Michigan Ave. in the north downtown area. Starts at about Oak Street down to the Chicago River. Boasts your typical Department Stores: Nordstorm, Saks Fifth Ave, Bloomingdales, H&M, Chicago's very own Marshall Fields, The Apple Store, Neiman Marcus and many more.
www.themagnificentmile.com
Water Tower Place – Part of the Magnificent mile, but very nice indoor shopping mall with a great Food Court called FoodLife.
www.shopwatertower.com
Oak Street – Chicago’s answer to Rodeo Drive. About a one block stretch from Michigan Ave west, Oak St. houses the upscale designers that will happily max out your credit card. Prada and Barneys New York are stand-outs.
www.oakstreetchicago.com
Spas
é Bella
1943 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 227-2929
Manicure, pedicures, massages.
Amber
2040 W. Webster St. Chicago, IL (773) 252-5549
Very relaxing place nearby; offers a variety of services, including various skincare treatments like micro-dermabrasion and facials. Manicures, pedicures, massages.
www.amberspa.com
ASHA SALON/SPA
1808 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 292-1100
The largest and most extensive beauty shop in the neighborhood, offering a hair salon, manicures, pedicures, and massages.
www.ashasalonspa.com.
Details Salon & Spa
2537 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 735-2119
Full service salon/spa.
www.detailssalonandspa.net
Spa Forever
1917 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 394-0000
Massage, skincare and waxing.
www.spaforever.com
Spa Soak
1733 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 395-9000
Massage, facials, body treatment, waxing, manicures and pedicures.
www.spasoakchicago.com
Urban Spa Studio
2232 N. Clybourn Ave. Suite 307 Chicago, IL (312) 404-4979
Facials and Waxing.
Storage
Self Storage 1
2001 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-9000
Tailor
My Dry Cleaners
2129 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 782-2066
Very Close, and they have always done a good job for me.
Wilton Cleaners
2030 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL
A former assistant swears these people are the best tailors he’s ever used.
Tanning
Tancun
2010 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-TANN
www.justtan.com
Le Clou
2121 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 549-8267
Located inTreasure Island mall.
Ultimate Exposure Tanning Center
1658 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 782-9944
Taxi / Car Services
If you want to call a cab, call American United (773) 248-7600. They are usually here within 5-10 minutes. They will ask for your phone number to verify the address – give them (773) 384-3245 and then give them your cell phone number and ask them to call that when they are here. You can call at least an hour before to schedule a specific pick-up time, but it is best to do the day before if you can.
Taxis are available throughout the city by hailing, especially in the downtown areas and entertainment areas. The most likely area you’ll find a cab to hail is on Damen Ave.—simply walk down Webster until you reach the first major intersection.
Car Services are available to/from the airports and reservations must be made in advance.
Taxis at the airports are nicely controlled with dispatchers. Just follow the signs at your terminal. There are shared rides available at times—ask the dispatchers.
Shared Bus service from the airport is unfortunately unavailable in our neighborhood.
Indoor tennis is available at Midtown Tennis.
(www.midtownclubs.com)
Outdoor courts are available all around in every direction.
Closest one west is in Humboldt Park-- about two blocks South of North Ave. on California Ave. The closest one north is in Hamlin Park at about 3000 N. Damen Ave. and Barry St..
Gorilla Tango Theatre
1919 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 598-4549
Chicago native and Second City and IO-Chicago-trained actor Dan Abbate opens his second venue under the same name (the first is in Albuquerque, NM)., featuring theater, comedy and kids' shows by both resident and visiting companies.
www.gorillatango.com
Chopin Theatre
1543 W. Division Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-1500
info@chopintheatre.com
Since its founding in 1990 Chopin Theatre’s purpose has been to support, present and produce multi-cultural avante garde theatre, literary, film, visual and performance art. During its 17 year history it has had approximately 7000 presentations (5000 theatrical, 1000 film, 800 poetry evenings and over 100 music events) across its two stages. Its main presenters have included Chicago Filmmakers,Guild Complex, Young Chicago Authors, Collaboraction Theater, Roadworks Productions as well as the Hypocrites, Signal Theatre, Teatro Vista and Uma Productions.
Chicago Actors' Studio
1567 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 645-0222
www.actors-studio.net
Trap Door Theatre
1655 W. Cortland Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 384-0494
www.trapdoortheatre.com
Chicago Greeter
77 E. Randolph St. Chicago, IL (312) 744-8000
Hire your own personal tour guide to Chicago. City-wise locals volunteer to share their knowledge and love of the city through visits on foot and public transportation. Enjoy the local points of interest on these two to four hour visits as well as some of the Greeters' favorite spots.
www.chicagogreeter.com
Bobby's Bike Hike
806 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL (312) 933-2980
Received this rave review: "A must-do for everyone, whether tourist or native! Our guide was very informative and personable- he made me feel very comfortable on the bike even though I hadn't ridden in years. Our whole group had a blast- this tour was definitely the highlight of my trip. I can't wait to get back and try the night tour. The ride was very comfortable and enjoyable for all experience levels. Don't leave Chicago without doing this tour!"
www.bobbysbikehike.com
Chicago Architecture Foundation Tours
www.architecture.org/tours.aspx
Thanks to our trained volunteer docents, our tours are the real deal--narrated, but not scripted, led by Chicago enthusiasts, not by just-another-day-at-the-office guides. Reservations are strongly recommended for boat and bus tours. For walking and bike tours, arrive at the specified meeting place, at or just before, the stated time and look for a docent with a CAF tag or pin. Groups of ten or more cannot join public walking tours without prior approval from the Tour Department. No reservations necessary for walking tours. All tours operate rain or shine. Any two different standard walking tours may be purchased for a discount. (Two tours for $24; seniors and students $20 with valid ID).” Also offer boat tours.
Shoreline Sightseeing
Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 222-9328
Chicago Architecture Boat Tours, viewed from Lake Michigan.
www.shorelinesightseeing.com
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
951 Chicago Ave. Oak Park, IL (708) 848-1976
Take a walk through the residence of Chicago's famous, groundbreaking architect.
www.wrightplus.org
Chicago from the Lake
435 E Illinois St. Chicago, IL (312) 527-2002
Best achitectural tour available in Chicago according to the Chicago Sun Times. Architectural River Cruise, Historical Cruise, Private Charters.
www.chicagoline.com
Trains (Amtrak)
I have personally become a fan of train travel in America. Chicago is a major hub, serving most major cities throughout the country. Amtrak comes into Union station (downtown Chicago). It’s about a $12 cab ride to my place, or you can take the Blue Line “L”. Exit Union Station on Canal Street and turn left (south) and then turn right (west) on Jackson. Go one block to Clinton and turn left and walk 2 blocks to the Clinton Blue line stop. Catch the Blue Line toward O’Hare and get off at the Western Ave stop. (See Public Transportation above for more details).
Info is available at Amtrak.com or by calling (800) 872-7245.
Web Sites
Helpful Chicago websites:
metromix.com
Restaurants, entertainment and events.
chireader.com
The Chicago Reader newspaper’s on-line version plus a lot more.
cityofchicago.org
Everything you need to know about Chicago.
craigslist.org
Buy, sell or find anything from apartments to a fish hook.
rtachicago.com Public transportation directions around the city.
Wellness
Now Studio
2141 W. Webster Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276.5278
Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit.
Reflexology, CranioSacral Therapy, Massage & Intuition... Holistic Healing for People & Pets www.nourhy.com
Alternative Health Group, LLC
1834 W. North Ave. #1 Chicago, IL (773) 227-9150
Yoga, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Tai Chi and Clinical Massage.
www.althealthgroup.com
The Bucktown Beanery Café.
2158 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 278-4200
The closest, at Damen and Webster. Basic coffee shop that also serves great breakfast sandwiches. WIFI.
Map Room
1949 N. Hoyne Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 252-7636
Armitage and Hoyne. Busy bar with music on the weekends. Busy most nights and packed on most weekends. Also has a coffee bar during the day. WIFI available.
www.maproom.com
Tea Essence
1913 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 276-2727
Free WIFI, afternoon tea Saturdays & Sundays, open mic Wednesday, live music Fridays and kids story time Sundays and Tuesdays.
http://www.teaessence.biz/
Yoga
Liv-Yoga
Private Individual & Group Lessons
She’ll come here with all the props.
(312) 560-8446
Global Yoga Center
1823 W. North Ave. Chicago, IL (773) 489-1510
www.globalyogacenter.com
ARCC Ballet
2074 N. Leavitt St. Chicago, IL (773) 384-2722
Kids and Adult classes in Ballet, Flamenco, Irish Dance, Hip Hop and Yoga.
www.arccballet.org
Innergy
2941 W. Dickens St. Chicago, IL (773) 456-9690
A clubhouse in Bucktown. Yoga, Pilates, Alternative Health Life coaching, etc.
www.innergy.us
Alternative Health Group LLC
1834 W. North Ave #1 Chicago, IL (773) 227-9150
Yoga, Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Tai Chi, Clinical Massage
www.althealthgroup.com
Yoga at Holstein Park
2200 N. Oakley Ave. (312) 742-7554
Mondays and Wednesdays. Basic Yoga at 6:30pm and Core Basic at 7:30pm. Bring your own mat and a towel, if you have them. Contact Bonne Podgee at (773) 539-2559 for more information.