Chicago

I adore Chicago. It is the pulse of America.
~ Sarah Bernhardt

Feb. 5, 2016 ~ Travel, exploration and photography in the Windy City; a short trip to one of my favorite cities.

C Chicago. It was such a treat to be invited to a private dinner party at C Chicago. When we arrived that evening, one of the waiters offered bubbly then I met some wonderful people from WGA for Evans Scholars. The night proceeded with excellent Pinot Noir, more bubbly and melt-in-your-mouth seafood (Seared Scallops with wild mushrooms and truffle oil were my favorite; the Miso Glazed Scottish Salmon was divine). Thank you WGA for a wonderful night!

Wild Berry Cafe. Early morning exploration, but first, hot chai tea, fresh avocado and sausage omelet with buttermilk pancakes for fuel! My plate could feed two people. This little cafe was a street down from our hotel and I left early enough to beat the hour-wait crowd. I now understand why it’s so popular!

Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago. Because when you’re in Chicago, you have to be a tourist for a day and see the magnificent skyline (while getting over your fear of heights!). 

The Second City. Exploring Lincoln Park’s interesting neighborhood before catching an entertaining improv with new friends at The Second City. 

Photo cred: Mary Nelson — she’s so fun and sneaky!

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba. The minute you walk in, you are drawn to the delicious aroma of tapas at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba. The best thing about tapas is sharing with new friends (oh HEYYY Kim and Mary!) There was a huge wait (fortunately, we had reservations and were seated within 15 minutes). We feasted on Rioja braised short ribs (my favorite), seafood paella, grilled octopus, garlic shrimp, buttermilk-fried chicken thighs, and Sangria. Of course. 

GT Fish & Oyster. I have been craving Maine lobster, particularly a good lobster roll. After checking reviews, we decided to go and walked around for two hours before GT Fish & Oyster opened for brunch. At market price, my lobster roll was the most $$$ sandwich I’ve ever had. Was it worth it? YASSS.
Btw, I love instagram for finding great eats. You may follow me there @2rtist :)

Monkey bread (the size of my fist) with caramel toffee (the perfect, salty sweet topping) and chicken and waffles. 

Our long weekend seemed so brief … Goodbye Windy City! Until next time! 

Chicago | Cubs and U2

If I could through myself set your spirit free
I'd lead your heart away
See you break, break away
Into the light and to the day
~ Bad, U2

Man behind the giant light bulb | cred: u2oficial

June 23-26 | Our road trip to CHICAGO…

Our view ~ Row 1 at Wrigley Field

The Bean at Millennium Park

We stayed at Club Quarters across the Trump building.

Impeccable floor at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel | instagram @2Rtist

June 24, 2015 | Wrigley Field

Love for Sale exhibit at the Chicago Cultural Center. I LOVED this so much — a wealth of graphic design goodness.

Shake Shack ~ delicious EATS

June 25, 2015 | Lobster roll dinner before the U2 concert. PERFECT. The GOOD: our seats were so close, less than 20 feet from the stage. The BAD: we faced their back side, but thankfully the band turned and moved around to make sure everyone had a good view. No complaints.

U2 innocence + experience tour at United Center

Our last stop, a taste of Eataly — this delicious crepe with Nutella and pistachios. Instagram @2Rtist

Thank you, Matt, for the wonderful road trip and for making a life list wish come true! xoxo Loves