Sophie Amado
Spotter since 2021
My spots (26)
Pasta Bowl – Pasta to die for
"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.
By
Sophie
Amado
Superdawg Drive-in – Classic Chicago hot dog spot
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!
By
Sophie
Amado
FLW Home & Studio – Architecture of the ages
Architecture lovers - if you are in Chicago, make sure to grab a ticket and get ready to explore "Frank Lloyd Wright's Home & Studio"...
By
Sophie
Amado
The Catcade – Cat cafe+arcade
The arcade-themed "Catcade" in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood has been a crucial stop for all cat lovers since 2017...
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
KOVAL Distillery – Craft distillery
"KOVAL Distillery" doesn't only produce delicious craft spirits, they're also a city landmark - the first fully operational distillery in Chicago in years.
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
aliveOne – Cozy music bar
aliveOne is my favorite bar in Chicago for several reasons: the friendly staff, daily happy hour specials, a cozy atmosphere... I could definitely go on!
By
Sophie
Amado
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
Where to find me
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