almostsinglemom

We just went recently for lunch and they were having a $5 burger special. We chose the Mushroom Sandwich and Reuben. The Reuben came with some kind of kraut that was a great addition to the corned beef

For the dinner, I remember we had some special tasting menu and it was fantastic. I believe they change their menu seasonally and everything on it is great.

Highly recommended for the South Loop lunch or a splurgey dinner!

Hyde Park is the home of the University of Chicago. One of the best universities in the world and the home of the beginning of the atomic age.

A trip to the university can yeild amazing information.

Under Stagg Field Stadium a makeshift lab was build and it was here that the first self sustaining nuclear reaction. 25 years exactly- to the minute- after this a bronze statue was unveiled to commomeorate the beginning of the atomic age.

Hyde park is an interesting area. It has a massive concentration of intelligence. It is home to the Museum of Science and Industry and the University of Chicago among other centers for learning.

Within a block or sometimes even just next door the neighboorhood can go from impoverished to very well off. It is a very vivid illustration of the reasons for racial tension in the area.

When I was in my early twenties the only Potbellies sandwich shop in the area was in Lincoln Park. We would often begin nights out there after a day of window shopping we would often stop there before heading out for an evening of bar hopping and clubbing. We inevitably had a wonderful sandwich and shake.

This neighbor hood has been incredibly hot for years! While it mathe new up not be and coming anymore there is still a lot of fun and unique things to do.

Chicago has so many neighborhoods and areas in it that describing it as a whole is darn near impossible. There are areas that have incredible shopping and busy with a cosmopolitan feel. There are also areas that have a small town feel where everyone knows everyone else. Sadly there are also of abject and extreme poverty. So a review would be very different based on the reviewers location in the city.

I love it though. As a whole Chicagoans are nice and generous people who are willing to help others out. We strive for excellence and demand the same of our colleagues. I am proud to be a life long Chicagoan.

is what Jefferson Park has been called.

a nortwestern neighborhood in Chicago- like many north side neighborhood is home to a great many city workers and has a large Polish population.

Home to the Gateway Theatre which was formerly a movie palace now is the seat of the Copernicus Foundation.

The neighborhood puts on 2 big fests every year the Taste of Polonia and Jeff Fest.

there are two other locations of this gourmet deli and bakery but for some reason I always associate The Goddess and The Grocer with Bucktown.

So so much more than Jewel or Dominicks the selection here is fresh and unique a great stop for any foodie.

The cupcakes, of courses are fantastic but one unique offering that I love is the prepacked picnic that is perfect for a night at Ravinia or an evening at the beach.

I actually have dreams about the California Dreamin' sandwich.

Another wonderful thing is they offer delivery. Which when you live in an area where parking is scarce is FANTASTIC. But, I like to go and just browse.

Contrary to what a lot of America thinks, he is NOT from Hyde Park, but Kenwood, a distinct area unto itself.

It went through a downturn which reached its nadir in the 1990s but has been steadily coming around. I bet with in the next few years it will be so far 'in' its out.

There are a large number of landmarks here, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters are here as well as the Blackstone Library. Kenwood is located in close proximity to Hyde Park with all of its advantages.

Fun place. This area has been impacted by every major social change in the country.

Now it is a stop on Gangster tours of the city. Many locations are tied to infamous individuals including Al Capone.

In addition to that the Riviera theater is located there as well as the Aragon Ballroom- which many a-list groups have played at.

Goose Island is known as known very well as a brewery- and a very good one at that.

Long ago 'Goose Island' was a place that Irish squatters inhabited. It was known as Goose Island because of the migratory geese that inhabited the island.

But now--- it is a good place to buy beer.

Don't misunderstand me. I love Lincoln Park I think it is a fantastic area. There are unique boutiques and top not restaurants on nearly every street. But it is becoming too trendy, too popular, and far to expensive for someone like me.

One of the best children's hospitals in the nation is located here as is one of the few remaining free zoo's.

Lincoln Park Zoo and its carousel are huge draws for my children while North Pond leaves me drooling.

There is something for everyone there

Old town is one of the most well know neighborhoods in the city, it is very historic yet modern.

It is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city. There are so many unique things about this area.
Second City is located here- if you have not been to one of their shows- go. It is a great comedic time.
Also located here is the Old Town Art Fair- a renowned celebration of art.

The variety of restaurants here is without compare: from Alinea to the Old Town Ale House- you can find anything.

This is another area I would be thrilled to reside in. For now though- day trips will have to suffice.

You do not hear a lot about Hegewisch. It is a south side neighborhood that has the last remaining mobile home park in Chicago.

Most of the food options are neighborhood places that are beloved by residents but not widely known.
So while it probably would not make for a terribly exciting mini vacation. It would not be a bad place to call home.

Many people mistakenly think that President Obama hails from Hyde Park. This is simply not the case. He is from Kenwood- a very distinct difference to people from the area.

Kenwood is undergoing gentrification. But that revival is still beginning which makes touring this area best by bus or car. However- if it is good enough for the Obama's it is certainly good enough for me.

To be frank- this is an area I know fairly little about. I will however take field trip and explore so I can review it more effectively.

One thing I can mention about it is the Ain't She Sweet Cafe. Fantastic. A must if you are in the area.

This neighborhood is the home of the Museum of Science and Industry, University of Chicago, and the Du Sable African History Museum.

The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) is fascinating for all ages. I have taken my four children there and not run out of things to see and discuss for hours.

Some of their favorite exhibits are the train layout, the moon landing, the hatchery, the agricultural exhibit, and the dollhouse. They have not expressed a huge interest in the children's area. They were far to busy looking at other things.

A lot of it was over their heads though, the coal mining was boring to them and the circus scared them- but it will come in time.

More and more Chicago is a destination for filming movies. Chicago has a unique feel and incredible architecture that are often used in tv and film.

Lots of movies and tv shows have been shot here or had scenes filmed here. Recently, Transformers 3 took over Michigan Avenue. It was a pain in the butt for anyone who wanted to drive downtown as it was closed to traffic and the Michigan Ave. bridge was closed to even pedestrian traffic; but it was really cool to watch the film industry invade our city.

So while it can be a pain; it is a good thing for our city as it brings jobs (even temporary ones) and gives it publicity.

It also gives local celebrity hunters someone to keep their eye out for.

When I started college the walk from the west side of campus to the east side was interesting at best and scary at worst.

By the time I graduated there had been a townhouse and and condo development started and shopping was expanding from the people selling socks by the expressway.

On Taylor street there are a ton of great options from Pompeii to Francesca's. One of my favorite food spots is Thai Bowl. I always got the red chicken curry- and since moving to the suburbs have many times considered driving into the city just for this.

Another tasty place is an Italian Ice place that is only open in the spring and summer the best Italian ice in the city of Chicago.

Is one of the largest street fests in Chicago. It is amazingly fun without being overwhelming.

Roscoe Village prides its self on its inviting nature and community oriented spirit

One of my favorite shops is on Clybourn- Be By Baby. It is one of the few shops that caters to natural parenting. They carry a wide variety of natural parenting goods and host playgroups and classes.

Awesome area.

RoPa did not used to be considered trendy. Now it is becoming a trendy area for people who do not want the 'label' of Lincoln Park or Bucktown.

Rogers Park is one of my favorite areas in the city. There area affordable apartments to be had and a great feel to the area- sure there are some shady parts- as long as you pay attention to your surroundings there should be no issues.

One unique store that you will not find anywhere else is Sonia Roselli's make up studio. Make up artist to the stars and designer of her own line you can book an appointment here to make you feel beautiful. It is a treasure of RoPa.




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79th street in Chatham is filled with shops and businesses owned by local individuals. One amazing restaurant is Yassa- in moments you feel you have left the Southside and traveled to West Africa. You can also find a incredible Caribbean chicken in this area.

It is a solid middle class area who can claim one of its current notable residents is Senator Roland Burris.

By South Side Chicago standards this neighborhood is very quiet. It is not Mayberry, be sure, but it is not nearly as rough as some surrounding areas.

It is another Irish enclave of Chicago that owes much of its history and development to the former Union Stock Yards.

It does not have hot trendy restaurants or clubs. But it does boast several neighborhood eateries that are beloved by locals. The area sees the most activity when the Sox are playing- as being a Sox fan in the neighborhood is almost a prerequisite.

A particular area in Cal Heights was often referred to as 'Pill Hill' because of the large number of physicians from South Shore Hospital who resided there.

As such it is a quiet residential area almost entirely comprised of many middle class residents from ethnically diverse backrounds.

It is a nice place to call home that is still within easy access of all Chicago has to offer.

The triangle is the strongest geometric shape; this neighborhood shaped as a triangle is showing its strength and reliance. Once a middle class area the area experienced urban decay and white flight in the past but is rapidly trending toward growth and development. It is an area to watch. I am excited to see what comes of it.

As of now it is a middle class area with some less than nice areas. However the entire area shows lots of potential.

When you arrive in Chinatown you would not know that you are still in Chicago. You may as well have arrived in Bejing. Chinatown is one of Chicago’s remaining ethnic enclaves- and it is amazingly fun! It is one of my favorite places to take my four children for a day trip. From incredible food to unique shopping and a cultural experience- there is something for everyone. The bright colors, amazing scents, buzzing sounds belay the areas vibrancy of the neighborhood.
It is of course the best place to get authentic Dim Sum and receive a quick pronunciation lesson without judgment. For the most part people there are eager to share their culture with visitors and are happy to answer anyone with questions.
Getting to Chinatown is half the fun. It is now served by the water taxi which takes people from the Loop to either Michigan Avenue or to Chinatown. It is also accessible by the ‘El’ green line.

30 years ago Bucktown was a working class neighborhood; now it is home to classy boutiques and trendy fusion restaurants with a population of artists and young professionals.

Drawn to the area by ease of access to the loop by the CTA and the Kennedy many young professionals choose this area to make their homes.

George's Hot Dogs is not at all high brow but it is a fixture of the neighborhood. It has been in business for 60 years. It is one of the best places to try a true Chicago Dog.

Cafe LaGuardia is another area restaurant that makes me hungry just thinking about it. It is my favorite place to go in the city for Cuban food.

This is one review that I am having trouble with. There is not a whole lot to say- about it- bad or good. It just is, it is a pleasant residential area that is primarily inhabited by Hispanic people. It does not have the same 'party' feel of The Little Village or Pilsen.

That is not to say it is bad either- it just is- it is an unpretentious, residential community.

Bridgeport is quintessentially Chicago. The White Sox are a religion here. While it has been known primarily as an Irish enclave it is home to a large number of Lithuanian and Chinese population also.

Comisky Park may no longer be in existence- The Cell (US Cellular Field) is the new place to watch the Sox play.
In 2005 it was amazing- the White Sox won the World Series.

Sterns Quarry which was once the supplier of Limestone for a large part of the city. Is now an amazing park.

Truly a treasure of the city.

Originally, Brainerd was a community settled by immigrants drawn to railroad jobs. Now it is a primarily African American quiet residential area,

Of particular interest to me- individually- is the collections and exhibits at the Brainerd Branch of the Chicago Public Library that illustrate many aspects of African American life. While I will never be able to fully understand what life as an African American is like- this provides a valuable glimpse into a perspective often overlooked.

Also at this library is one of the largest collections of literature, journals and manuscripts relating to African American history. All free and open to everyone seven days a week.

Beverly and Irish Chicago are pretty much synonymous. It is where "South Side Irish" takes its roots. Until recently it was the home to Chicago's South Side Irish Parade.

There is so much to say about Beverly it is hard to contain myself to a few excepts.

The neighborhood spirit is is contagious. Families quite often look out for one another. Many of the cities police officers and firefighters make their homes in this area so it is considered very safe.

Western Avenue has many (many being a broad understatement) Irish pubs that transform into night spots on Friday/Saturday nights where many of the younger crowd socialize.

It is a thriving community that is rich in history one of my favorite areas in the city by far.

Seriously. I swear. Look it up- I dare you.

This is an area primarily inhabited by Poles- but with a ton of diversity. One neighborhood gem is an older Irish Shop that seems a bit out of place given the other areas in the city so known for Irish residents.

Riis Park is a beautiful park. It is unusual because it is on two levels thanks to an ancient Glacial Ridge and a historic field house.

may be what physically remains of the Union Stockyards that Chicago owes so much to but the history in this area are undeniable. This area was immortalized in Sinclairs "The Jungle"

Formerly, the area was primary Eastern European. Now the residents are primarily Hispanic.
Homes and cottages where the workers in the stockyards lived are still there.

On 47th street there is an active commercial district surrounded by admittedly humble residences. There is a western shop that sells higher end accouterments and there are several restaurants in the area that are gaining local acclaim.

Packingtown park which was built and dedicated in 1997 is another area landmark that pays homage to the areas beginnings.

It is worth the visit if you are interested in Chicago history.

I tend to think the former is more accurate when discussing Avondale. It is a neighborhood undergoing change. It may not be a 'trendy' area but it is certainly becoming more safe.

As it is served by the Blue Line Belmont stop, as well as numerous buses. The Kennedy Expressway is also right there which makes accessing different areas very easy.

While it lacks the historic architecture of other areas it is a decent place to live. It has been a Polish enclave since its inception and the Polish culture is still embeded there even if there seems to be a recent turn toward Hispanic population.

There are numerous restaurants in the area- while they are not Alinea or Moto, they are more of the neighborhood variety.

It is another neighborhood which was encouraged to develop by the Colombian Exposition.

Avalon Park is a primarily African American Area that is distinctly contrary to the stereotypes so common among African American communities.

During the 1980's the population dwindled so new multi-unit buildings were planned. Therefore I believe that this is a great place to purchase a home if you are looking for a nice, diverse urban neighborhood.

Austin has an illustrious history. It is the birth place of Frank Lloyd Wright and Hemingway. It was originally built on railroad wealth. However after the race riots of the 1960 Austin lost much of its prestige and became a rougher area.

However, recently it has been undergoing rehab while maintaining its historical integrity. One of the best examples of this was the refurbishment of Columbus Park. One of the most pretty and well designed parks in Chicago.

It is wonderful to see this once brilliant neighborhood reclaiming its status.

Ashburn was originally the dumping ground for the ashes from the City of Chicago. It saw its hey day in the 1950s and 1960s with the post World War II construction boom in Ford City. Ashburn also attracted a variety of carnivals in the earlier years.

It admittedly does not have an active night life or retail therapy, but it offers a neighborly feel with several of the areas original residents still residing there.

One thing of note was an article written about the area in 1999 for the New York times that discussed the difficulties of areas integrating.

Archer Heights has been pretty consistent for its history. It has been predominantly white, blue collar, and residential for the past 90 years.

The area is and has been a predominantly Polish area. Which is fantastic, especially around Mardes Gras, Fat Tuesday, aka Paczki Day.

It is an residential area in which most homeowners take great pride in their property which adds to the areas appeal.

So it is nice place to live, not such a great place to go club hopping.

Albany park has been through quite the transformation. In the 1970 it was a haven for illegal activities. Now through the efforts of its residents and of social outreach groups it has gone through a rapid rebirth.

One of its main draws is "Seoul Drive" which is a stretch of Lawrence Avenue on which the majority of the shops are operated and owned by Korean immigrants. Here you can sample fantastic authentic Korean food and learn about the fascinating culture.



Albany Park is easily accessible via the Brown Line 'L'.
Given the drastic changes that this area has underwent in the past few years it will be interesting to see what the future holds for this neighborhood.

Logan Square is an area that is filled with history. It used to be an enclave for Norwegian Immigrants but is now home to more Hispanic inhabitants as well as Eastern European people.

It has a beautiful boulevard system with amazing old homes and architecture. The residents are typically proud of their community and strive to maintain it.

Logan Square is near enough pretty much everything to be convenient without being over congested, even parking is reasonable.

In the summer the farmers market is famous the city over. People from all over the city venture to visit it.

While all cities are diverse this neighborhood exemplifies it in a good way. There are different cultures interacting together to bring this fantastic neighborhood to life.

There are so many things that come to mind immediately when you think of Chicago: Lake Shore Drive, The Magnificent Mile, The 'EL', The SEARS Tower (never Willis), Marshall Field's (not Macy's) and the infamous Chicago Politicking. I could list more and more things that make Chicago Chicago. But deeper than that, there are amazing things that are just hidden below the surface. You could easily spend a day being a tourist in almost any of Chicago's neighborhoods and not run out of things to do.

One of my favorite places in the city Devon Ave. on the north side. There are a few drawbacks though: me a lifelong White Sox Fan has to venture in to firm Cubs territory among others. Devon Avenue is known as Little India. This area has is an enclave of eastern Indian culture, food, people, shops etc.

Good ethnic food can be a religious experience. Bringing the authentic flavors from around the world into your little pocket of it. Indian food can be hard to replicate. It is often imitated, but rarely successfully. On Devon Ave. you will find a plethora of authentic options as well as markets to purchase ingredients so you can prepare authentic food at home. A bonus most of the people are amazingly friendly and so happy to share their culture with you.

My children adore going here. Indian culture is centered on children and though I am not Indian, my children are still treated like gold. They get to try new things and learn about a far away country. Without the 18 hour flight.

This is also a great date activity. My husband and I have enjoyed many days wandering from shop to shop admiring the silk (ok that was me) and then sampling some food without being in an overly done area.

Take a day and explore this neighborhood.