I’m en route (so early!) to Chicago for a nice long weekend with my parents and sister and couldn’t be more excited for some unplugging and r&r. With that said, I thought I would roundup some of my favorite Chicago spots as one of the questions I most get e-mailed is recommendations for San Francisco, Chicago & New York. So below is my little ‘travel guide’ for my home city. I hope you enjoy!

Now wish me luck in the cold! Brr…

Favorite Brunch Spots:

• Southport Grocery
• Milk + Honey (the granola)
• John’s Place

Favorite Bars:

• Carol’s Pub (late night only)
• Redhead Piano Bar

Favorite Places:

• Millenium Park (I always visit the bean when in town!)
• The Art Institute
• The Museum of Science and Industry
• Museum of Contemporary Photography
• Armitage Avenue

Favorite Dinner Spots:

• Cafe Spiaggia
• RL Restaurant (feels like dining in Ralph’s house)
• Hot Chocolate
• Frasca

Misc.:

• The Bourgeois Pig (pick up a latte and a scone to go.)
• Bittersweet (my family’s go-to for easy, quaint lunches) (Update: My mom has emailed me to inform me I must note that the pastries are the best part and all the reason to eat lunch just so you can follow it with dessert :))
• The Wit (rooftop bar. And, naturally, I love the name)
• Sweet Mandy B’s (such delicious treats)
• The Signature Room
• Ann Sather (Cinnamon rolls!)

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