Kate's Tip

Reservations can be hard to come by, especially if it's more than 2 people. Call day of to check for last minute cancellations or belly up to the bar right at opening for a last minute meal.

Kate's Tip

Wait times for a table can range from 30 minutes to an hour a half (this is not an exaggeration) Luckily there are plenty of places on the block to pass the time with a cocktail or coffee.

Kate's Tip

Most Fridays the downstairs Sochu lounge is open - sit at the bar upstairs for sake and snacks, then head down for an even more intimate night. (Reservations are required for downstairs, walk ins ok upstairs)

Kate's Tip

Located in the basement of the popular Hoxton Hotel, just when you think you've gone too far, keep going.

Kate's Tip

The Michelin starred tasting menu during dinner service is worth every penny. Instead of the standard wine pairings on the menu, ask your server to pick out some fun sake to go along with your meal. You won't be disappointed!

Kate's Tip

The mac & cheese alone is worth the trip to Hyde Park. That's the tip.

Kate's Tip

Lula is both a local favorite and a nationally recognized restaurant for a reason. The menu leans hyper seasonal, so make sure not to skip out on the bounty of local farmers.

Kate's Tip

They won't let you reserve the coveted outdoor rooftop tables ahead of time, but if you happen to show up early for your reservation and ask the host staff nicely, you may just pull it off.

Kate's Tip

If you have a larger group, make sure to head to the website in advance and fill out the contact form. They do not take reservations, and this is most likely your only chance of having a space set aside if the timing is right.

Kate's Tip

It can get very loud and VERY busy. My most enjoyable experiences have been sitting at the bar for hours on end, and making my way through the entire menu. Don't miss out on the cocktail section, there isn't a bad one on the list.

Kate's Tip

Lots of bars offer food, but few bars have food that you keep coming back for. (this is one of those bars!) Take my advice and order two portions of the double crunch nuggets cooked karaage-style.

Kate's Tip

From the outside exterior you may think you're in the wrong place... you aren't. Tucked away behind the brick exterior is a dimly lit and speakeasy style room packed to the brim with both neighborhood regulars and visitors alike.

Kate's Tip

Since it can get busy, opt to belly up to the bar near opening for quicker seating, no reservation needed.

Kate's Tip

They do not take reservations for just drinks or dessert - full meal only. Plan accordingly and enjoy the people watching!

Kate's Tip

Reservations fill up quickly, so make sure to plan ahead. There is 0% chance you're getting in without one. Have Sam (who runs the space) make a drink for you vs. ordering off the menu. She will give you a history lesson along with one of the best cocktails you’ve had in a long while.

Kate's Tip

This industrious space is part bar seating, part restaurant, part events space, part garden on the roof. It has something for any occasion and you'd be smart to book a reservation as soon as you're done reading this.

Kate's Tip

This place is oozing with charm from the moment you walk up. From the outside it looks like a charming townhouse straight out of NYC. Pro Tip: get a large group together and request the chef's table upstairs. It has a view of the open kitchen where all the action happens and is tucked away in the upstairs towards the back. If you're going to spend a month's rent on a dining experience, you may as well bring more people to try the whole menu.

Kate's Tip

Who doesn't love Greek food? This restaurant can do no wrong in my eyes. They don't try to overdo it, it's fun, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Seafood lovers: They bring a massive tableside presentation of the fish they are offering daily, do not miss out on the quality!

Kate's Tip

If you are on a diet, this restaurant is not for you. The pasta menu is perfectly curated, made by hand, and some of the best you will find in the country. I recommend for your first visit you lean HEAVY on the pasta section. One of each? You won't regret it.

Kate's Tip

Few restaurants of this caliber have a kid's menu. Take full advantage of this if you have the little one's in tow.

Kate's Tip

1 and a half hours of pure Chicago history flanked by some of the best architecture in the nation. If you choose to go on an overcast or gloomier day, the crowds will be noticeably smaller. PS: Don't be late - the boat waits for no one!

Kate's Tip

There are a ton of museums and exhibits to see in Chicago, this is by far the most exciting. Who doesn't love Dinosaurs?

Kate's Tip

Check the calendar for fun outside events and concerts - you might just catch your favorite band in an iconic American stadium.

Kate's Tip

Cash only. Get there early. Don't talk during performances. Have fun!

Kate's Tip

The Brownie was "invented" at the Palmer House. It can be found in multiple iterations on the hotel menus. Order it.

Kate's Tip

Park Hyatt is one of those hotels that has everything. Classic and old school service, high end rooms and the best location. Request a room with a lake view, you won't regret it.

Kate's Tip

This property houses one of the hottest new restaurants in the country, Tre Dita. Utilize the concierge team to snag yourself a highly coveted and hard-to-get reservation in advance.

Kate's Tip

There is always some fun and hip event programming scheduled at this hipster haven. Don't skip out on the beats, brunch, and bottomless mimosas on the weekends.