A Guide to Chicago from the Gtrot Crew
The Chicago crew at gtrot.com reveals what to munch on, where to shop, what to do and where to party in the Windy City.
Eats Chicago Q – This is one of our gtrotter’s favorite restaurants in Chicago. It’s located in the heart of downtown and serves up tasty gourmet barbecue. DMK Burger Bar- Looking for a burger? This is you place! They have great burgers and specialty fries! We recommend the Truffle Parmesan! Flo and Santos – Great pizza and pub. If you’re looking for a smaller restaurant with a cool vibe, head to F&S. Tons of beer, too. Floriole Café and Bakery- We all love a little café! If you just want coffee and a sandwich, stop by and order an iced coffee and a B.A.D. sandwich (bacon, arugula, date spread). Purple Pig- Known for it's 'Wine, Swine and Cheese' this tapas bar has a great outdoor patio and a long wine list. Great tapas that change with the season are great for sharing! Yolk- Breakfast anyone? Red velvet French toast or Nutella crepes? Have your choice at this local favorite. Terzo Piano- This Italian restaurant has a great view of the city (Millennium Park) and amazing cuisine, which is all local and organic.
Shopping Akira- The boutique chain is affordable, trendy and there are numerous locations throughout the city. Block 37- Located in the downtown area, this new shopping center is on State Street with stores like Zara, Puma, Sephora and more! Michigan Avenue – Welcome to the Magnificent Mile. If you don’t mind shopping with a lot of people and love the rush, this is your spot. So many flagship stores and restaurants for you to visit. Wicker Park – If you don’t want to deal with the always busy Magnificent Mile or State Street, head over to Wicker Park. There’s a great arrangement of stores from local boutiques to Urban Outfitters to Marc By Marc Jacobs, and a few consignment/vintage shops if you’re into that.
Events/Attractions Cloud Gate “The Bean”- Millennium Park is beautiful during the summer, and you’ll always see people gathering around “The Bean”. It’s truly a spectacle, so grab your camera and take a pic of your reflection with the skyline as your background. Fireworks at Navy Pier- They happen every Wednesday and Saturday and the best part is, they’re free! Lollapalooza- Lollapalooza is the largest concert in the mid-west. Spanning three days with top acts across multiple stages. It's a must attend! Grab a one-day or a three-day pass. North Avenue Beach- If you want to lie out at a beach, North Avenue is one of our favorites! Pack a cooler and prepare for a day in the sun. If you get there early enough, you’ll be able to get in on a beach volleyball game! Pitchfork Festival- Maybe next year? This music festival serves as a fun and affordable fun time. Not as expensive as Lolla, but you still have many band options. Taste of Chicago – Woah, you just missed it! This annual fair hosts many of Chicago’s famous restaurants. Buy tickets and your palate will be thankful.
Bars/Nightlife Barleycorn – Located in Wrigleyville, walk past the Wrigley stadium straight to a lower level restaurant and bar and upper level dance party. Fridays are pretty cray cray! Big Star- Whew, the margaritas are very strong! Kingston Mines- At this famous blues bar you can enjoy live music every night. Signature Lounge – Head up to the top of the John Hancock building. If you’re looking for something more upscale with a bird’s eye view of the city Chicago, this is the right place for you. Not enough food for ya? There’s more! Cesar’s Killer Margarita Pequod’s Pizza Sprinkles Cupcakes Vines on Clark Wiener’s Circle Bull & Bear English Bar and Restaurant
Thanks to the gtrot team for giving us the inside scoop on the Windy City! 
