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! 

Chile | Los Dominicos and Restobar Ky

August 13, 2015 ~ Our day off, to wander the streets for fine eateries, shop local at the arts and crafts hub of Chile, and enjoy our group’s last night in Santiago together with eclectic, fine dining at KY. Btw, these pictures are all iphone only. I didn’t get the memo about how swanky Restobar Ky IS, and I left the “good camera” at the hotel. Don’t you hate that? Still, I drool… Ky is a feast for the eyes. Enjoy!

Flannery’s Irish Geo Pub for a light lunch of fresh, homemade soup and chicken with rice. Not the typical pub fare (though they have that too) but quite tasty. This cute pub was right around the corner of our hotel and so tempting for a late night libation.

Pueblo Artesanal Los Dominicos

He KNEW I was from the Show Me state.

Club de Golf Los Leones ~ We met up with Matt’s college friend Juan “JP”, who is also a 4-time All-American golfer and teaches at this old, private club. It is a very nice course; and sadly, No, I don’t play.

Restobar Ky ~ The entrance is deceiving because it’s sketchy and there are no signs that say KY. But once you pass the gate and dark, ominous entry, it opens up to OZ. No munchkins, but a lot of visual interiors and delicious Asian-based food. Pisco sours, red wine, curry shrimp with rice, and a dessert called Michael Jackson. Hashtag HowCoolisThis?

Vintage police car and elaborate chandeliers

Looking down ... glass cases built into the floor

Happy Birthday Mitchell!