Sophie Amado
Spotter since 2021
About me
About me
A proud Chicago native and past Fulbright scholar, I hold a BA in English and Spanish from the University of Iowa and an MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing from Columbia College Chicago. It was during graduate school I really started exploring many of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. I occasionally teach English classes but am primarily a copywriter.
I also host an open-mic reading series in Lincoln Park (and on Zoom), write essays, and travel in my free time. I'm on the pursuit for the best cup of brew and have been to over 150 different coffee shops in Chicago.
I'm also an architecture aficionado and lead tours at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park.
Why Chicago
Chicago has my heart because it's accessible, a cultural hub, and clean. It bridges the United States' other cities and it's a grounded place due to its position in the Midwest. I love Chicago because there's so much to explore without it feeling overwhelming or too expensive. Each neighborhood is near some form of public transportation and is like opening a new chapter in the same book. Also, I've never heard anyone complain about the food or the Chicago architecture!
Where else can you find me online?
www.sophieamado.com
My spots (28)
Middlebrow
Natural wine meets fresh bread
I am always stunned by Middlebrow's appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.
by
Sophie
Amado
PIZZ'AMICI
Tavern-style pizza
Tavern-style pizza takes the crown at PIZZ'AMICI — thin, crispy crust, cozy vibes, and big local love since they moved from apartment to restaurant in 2024.
by
Sophie
Amado
Vito + Nick's
Breaking Chicago pizza stereotypes
Vito & Nick's doesn't make typical Chicago pizza: it's the thin crust that reigns supreme here. I drive out of my way to get there, but it's worth it.
by
Sophie
Amado
Reggies Chicago
Bar with music and shuttles
Reggies Chicago is a grunge bar, concert venue, and shuttle hub with great eats, Sox game packages, a beach bar and unique events like a pancake art show.
by
Sophie
Amado
The 606
Quiet nature path
The 606 (aka the Bloomingdale Trail) in Chicago is a repurposed walking trail on a disused piece of L train track. In my opinion, it's a piece of art.
by
Sophie
Amado
Luft Balloons
Decorating Chicago with balloons
Luft Balloons in Chicago isn't just a balloon shop – it's a female-operated & owned business that makes balloon sculptures specifically for marches...
by
Sophie
Amado
Little Madrid
A bit of Spain in Chicago
Little Madrid in Chicago feels so European, it's surprising — trust me, I've spent some time in Madrid myself. Great place for a date or coworker night.
by
Sophie
Amado
Rice'N Bread
Cozy Korean restaurant
Rice'N Bread in Chicago is a special spot for dinner or even pre-gaming a baseball game, a Korean restaurant that always makes my day. Try the bibimbap!
by
Sophie
Amado
Where to find me
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