I am a public transportation enthusiast. I long ago chose not to have a car in Chicago. Before Block 37 was built that meant from time to time I longed for the days I could drive to a mall in the suburbs and wander in and out of stores hoping to find inspiration for a fun weekend outfit.
Chicago is not lacking in shopping options but in the winter months it can get annoying walking from store to store on Michigan Ave, taking off your coat, putting on your coat, and shaking off snow from your boots. So when Block 37 opened on top of both a blue-line and red-line EL train stop, I became able to pop into several of my favorite stores that include Akira, Zara and Sephora, all of which are in Block 37. I will then get right back on the red line that drops me 2 blocks from home.
Block 37 also has a dine-in movie theatre which although it's a bit more expensive I find myself enjoying, particularly on Monday evenings, when transporting myself into a different reality is most appealing.
When you walk into Block 37 from Randolph Street, there are three words above the entrance that sum up the space: Food. Fashion. Film.
Find your way with 116 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Argyle Street" is Chicago's first shared street. The concept allows cafes to extend outside their doors and provide spaces for the summer night market...
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The food here is prepared by Moses Sake, chef and co-owner of Tesfa, who learned how to cook from his mother. He runs Tesfa with his brother, Samuel Sake.
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I recommend getting the traditional breakfast combo, a sampler with three dishes, that comes with complimentary warm, crispy bread!
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The star of the show is De Luna's "volcano" taco, made with spicy poblano pepper and melted cheese. It may be one of the best tacos I've eaten in my life!
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Although this street is dominated by Vietnamese eateries, Nhà Hàng is a quieter, no-frills joint as opposed to the touristy, upscale restaurants nearby.
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Here diners sit in the naturally lit patio while enjoying traditional homemade Costa Rican food: sweet plantains, grilled veggies, rice and beans.
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My favorite thing to order here is the vegetarian arepa, which is stuffed with black beans, a generous portion of avocado, and sweet plantains.
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Founded in 1948, "Superdawg" is THE quintessential Chicago hot dog place - they'll bring your order right to your car, like they did in the '50s!
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The lentils are filling and creamy; the veggies are lightly cooked and nourishing; the injera bread is the perfect balance of slightly tangy and spongey.
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OMI has many good menu options, but their Japanese dessert toast is their all-star. Think of it as a fluffy French toast served with vanilla ice cream.
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Choose from multigrain sourdough, their house sourdough and miso rye sourdough; pastry choices include croissants, morning buns, and fruit danishes.
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Momos are bite-sized dumplings from Nepal and Tibet, usually filled with meat that is seasoned with spices like turmeric, garlic, cumin, and chili peppers.
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116 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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