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.
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There are many unique food options to try on their menu like Bylamyk porridge with raspberry jam, Baursak (fried dough bites) or Truffle Mushroom Soup.
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" Old Town Ale House" is one of my favorite spots to enmesh myself in the history, art, and unique company found in Chicago.
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I am always stunned by their appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.
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"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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"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.
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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 Hà ng 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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