Stephanie & Mason
Chicago for the Weekend
Aba
Located in the West Loop, this is a delicious Mediterranean spot. We recommend the Crispy Short Rib Hummus, Muhammara, Crispy Potatoes, Chicken Kebab, & really anything on the menu. Mason likes the Garlic Hummus, but your breath will smell for days after. It is good though. Aba is walking distance from the Hyatt House West Loop and the Hoxton.
Au Cheval
Au Cheval is nestled in the heart of the West Loop and is one of our favorite spots for indulgent bites and drinks. Steph loves their iconic cheeseburgers, while Mason raves about the General Jane's honey-fried chicken. Don’t miss the crispy fries (we recommend adding a fried egg on top!). Although they don’t take reservations and lines can get long on weekends, we suggest arriving early, putting your name down, and grabbing a drink at one of the great bars nearby. Au Cheval is within walking distance of both the Hyatt House West Loop and the Hoxton.
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Located in the Gold Coast, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is a classic Chicago steakhouse. Known for its Gibsons Prime Angus Beef and Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef, the menu also offers a selection of fresh seafood, timeless cocktails, and an extensive wine list. We also recommend checking out Gibsons Italia in the West Loop!
Homeslice Pizza + Patio
Located in Lincoln Park, this is arguably our favorite casual pizza spot! Yummy cocktails + a solid beer selection. Our favorites are the Nadene Pizza, Buffalo Chicken Pizza, & Chicken Ranch Pizza.
Il Porcellino
Located in the heart of River North, Il Porcellino is a neighborhood restaurant offering classic Italian-American comfort food in a casual setting. We love their cozy atmosphere and housemade pasta! Il Porcellino is walking distance from The Gwen.
John's Food and Wine
Located in Lincoln Park, John's Food & Wine has delicious food & wine. Don't know what else to say here - we love their food & wine. Thanks, John! Also, they do not take reservations. Walk-ins only :)
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
Located in the West Loop, this is by far our favorite Italian spot in the city. We love their Burrata e Ham, handmade pastas, and wine. It is ~super difficult~ to get a reservation (we hesitated to include this as a rec, but love it lots), so we normally walk in & grab a spot at the bar! Monteverde is walking distance from the Hyatt House West Loop and the Hoxton.
Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap
Located in Lincoln Park, we love to come here to drink beer and play cards. They also serve the "All the Way Up", a Margarita with a Red Wine Float, trust us it's good! Please note that they do not serve food.
Pequod's Pizza
Located in Lincoln Park, this is our go-to spot for Chicago-style deep dish! We recommend making a reservation, as walk-ins aren’t always guaranteed. If you’re not up for the trip but still want to enjoy classic Chicago deep dish, check out Lou Malnati’s or Uno Pizzeria & Grill in the Loop.
Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
Portillo's is home to some of America's favorites, including Italian beef, burgers, salads, Chicago-style hot dogs, and their famous chocolate cake. With multiple locations across the city, Portillo's is a fast-casual spot that doesn’t require a reservation. Steph highly recommends the Italian Beef and Cheese Fries, while Mason is a fan of the Chicken Tenders and Chocolate Cake Shake.
Shaw's Crab House
Located in River North, this is our go-to spot for fresh seafood. We can't get enough of their oysters, sushi, New England Clam Chowder, buffalo shrimp, and drinks. We highly recommend reserving a table at the Oyster Bar! Shaw's is walking distance from The Gwen.
SUSHI DOKKU Japanese Restaurant
Sushi Dokku is located in the heart of the West Loop & one of our favorite sushi spots! We recommend reserving a table in advance as SD is a hot spot on the weekends. Sushi Dokku is walking distance from the Hyatt House West Loop and the Hoxton.
Violet Hour
Located in Wicker Park, Violet Hour serves artisanal cocktails. Steph's Bridesmaid, Melanie, & her husband, Tyler, took Steph & Mason to Violet Hour and it has become one of their favorite date night spots. :)