There is something I find relaxing about walking below the skyscrapers in downtown Chicago. The Riverwalk provides a different view of the city. The sidewalk that makes up the Chicago Riverwalk is located along the south side of the Chicago River and about 2 storeys below street level.
You can reach the Riverwalk from several different entry points from Wacker Drive, as of May 13th, 2019 the Riverwalk is open as far west as Lake St and Wacker Dr. You will walk down stairs into a part of the city that is all about recreation. You can stroll the Riverwalk that's just over a mile long, leisurely stopping to take pictures of the bridges you will pass under or stopping at one of the bars along the way for a drink or a snack. During the winter months, a lot of the vendors are closed but O'Brien's is always a good bet for a drink and some free popcorn.
All year around, as you stroll you can take in public works of art or buy a ticket to an architectural tour.
Find your way with 114 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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Architecture lovers - if you are in Chicago, make sure to grab a ticket and get ready to explore "Frank Lloyd Wright's Home & Studio"...
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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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114 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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