We had one of our earliest and most memorable first dates at the MCA! A great place to visit, especially if the weather is chilly in April.
Experience the city’s legendary architecture from the best seat in the house—the river. This comprehensive tour navigates through the heart of the city on all three branches of the Chicago River. It’s the one thing everyone tells you to do in Chicago, done right. Can be done rain or shine, so please dress accordingly :)
$ A Chicago staple! Nick's order: Maxwell polish with mustard and grilled onions & onion rings with cheese sauce Caitlin's order: Cheeseburger (everything, add mustard) & onion rings. Must try the chocolate cake shake if it's your first time!
$$ *Insert the Cheers theme song* The #1 neighborhood bar in the city (or the world if you ask Caitlin) with a rotating list of draft beer and amazing bar food. Must try the mac and cheese squares. Nick's order: Gumball Head and the duck grinder with a side of BBQ sauce Caitlin's order: A peach high noon or Tito's soda (really depends on the vibe) and a blackened chicken wrap with a side of ranch and buffalo sauce.
$$ A family-owned, old-school Italian restaurant. We celebrated our first Valentine's Day here and love sitting at the bar or dining on the front patio. Must get the bruschetta and stuffed artichokes. Nick's order: Fettucini Lucia and a Peroni Caitlin's order: Pastina & veal saltimbocca with a fat glass of red wine. The oysters rockefellar are also beyond (if you don't have a shellfish allergy lol)!
$$ Nancy's started in Chicago and is our go-to pizza spot! Our order: Super thin crust or deep dish, depending on the mood, with whatever toppings you prefer.
$$$ Elevated diner-style food in a cozy yet trendy space. Au Cheval is a very popular destination and does not accept reservations, so plan accordingly. We recommend putting your name on the list and popping next door to Lone Wolf for a cocktail or two. Go hungry and with someone you can share food with :) Our order: Roasted bone marrow & General Jane's honey fried chicken, a single (which has 2 patties) burger or the fried bolonga sandwich to share, and any of the salads on the menu to balance it all out (Caitlin loves the kale ceasar). Don't forget to add a side of fries!
$$$ Amazing for dinner but even better for brunch! Reservations recommended but they are usually able to take walk-ins at the bar. Our order: The gem salad and as many pastries as your heart desires to start. The Waygu pastrami sandwich split and a glass (or 3) of champagne.