Things To Do
The Revel Room
Once upon a time, back in July 2021, there was a karaoke industry night at a beloved Chicago bar. A woman ready for thot girl summer walked in and blew the roof off with her rendition of Jane by Jefferson Starship, catching the eye of one of the bartenders. When she ordered shots for her friends, the infatuated hooch slinger only charged her $0.69, then scampered to the other end of the bar awaiting a reaction. The woman, perhaps curious about his no shirt/tie dye overalls combo and emboldened by Green Chartreuse, wrote her number on the bottom of the receipt. Now you're going to a wedding, you're welcome!
Star Lounge
The first date began here. After nearly a week of asking, we met up for coffee at Anthony's insistence. What began as a meet-cute turned into a nearly a 6 hour date that included walks in two parks, swan boats, mopeds rides, and burgers under the El.
Humboldt Park
Another stop on our amazing 6 hour first date was Humboldt Park for a leisurely swan boat (RIP SWAN BOATS). This nearly 200 acre park has something to offer year round. Take a stroll through the prairie gardens, visit the boat house, and enjoy a little spot of nature in the concrete jungle.
Redhot Ranch
One of the stops on our meandering first date was to take the mopeds to Red Hot Ranch for Depression Dogs and burgers. Cash only, and maybe bring some earplugs in case the train goes by overhead.
Salvage One
Not just a great venue! If you happen to arrive early for the nuptials, browse through three floors of beautiful furniture and salvage pieces. We're always on the hunt for great pieces at estate sales, and this store scratches that itch without having to leave the city.
Broken Hearts
This list would not be complete without the bar that Anthony poured his heart and soul into. Countless hours spent shuttling back and forth to the craziest estate sales in the greater Chicagoland Area and Indiana have culminated into this West Loop Honky Tonk for great drinks, live music, dancing, shootin' pool and shootin' the shit. We'll be two-steppin' and singin' the night away here after the reception.
The Giant Penny Whistle
Mikayla's bar, snuggled into the heart of the Pilsen neighborhood. We have different DJ's every night to suit any type of dancing mood, but Thursday's are dedicated to House Music. Stop by on a Monday and play Mario Kart! Stuff yourself into the photo booth! Mingle under the disco balls!
Garfield Park Conservatory
One of the most beautiful offerings of the Chicago Park District. See beautiful displays of rare flowers and plants from around the world, or time travel 300 million years into the past in the Fern Room. Booking a time to visit on their website is easy and free.
Haidilao HotPot Chicago Inc
We eat hot pot at least once a month. While there are about a billion places in Chicago to get great hot pot, this is the only place where they will hand throw the noodles at your table. Get the Tom Kha broth, you won't regret it.
Uncle Mike's Place
Hands down the best brunch in town, and a staple of our diets. Grab Filipino or American style breakfast (Mikayla recommends the Tocino) at this family establishment. Each dish is served with a cup of chocolate rice pudding (as a treat!) and if you're lucky, you might see Uncle Mike himself!
Logan Arcade
A classic Mika & Tony date night spot. A lovely beercade decorated in classic Halloween decor and bursting to the seams with a variety of cabinet arcade games, pinball, Dance Dance Revolution, and Japanese rhythm games. Grab a pint and become a pinball wizard!
Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop, an IHG Hotel
Great option for out of town guests of for people who want to crash after the reception and after hours. Plus it's part of the Hilton Group, so you can use those points, baby!