Restaurants In Chicago

How to celebrate Women’s History Month in Chicago

The city of Chicago has been shaped by a long line of bold, pioneering women, from Jane Addams to Ida B. Wells, and Women’s History Month is the perfect time to reflect on that legacy. All month long, you’ll find illuminating events honoring women in the arts, theatre, food, and beyond. 

Here’s a roundup of events and attractions to celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day 2023 in Chicago.

Women’s History Month exhibits, shows, and events

Photo by Matthieu Joannon

Let’s Talk & Celebrate Womxn Gourmet Bash: Kick off Women’s History Month with a gourmet tasting event from Let’s Talk Womxn Chicago on March 2 at Moe’s Cantina. Enjoy tasting stations and cocktails by 30+ leading Let’s Talk Womxn Chicago restaurants, plus a DJ, fashion drag show, dancing, and more. Use code ChooseChicagoLTW10 for $10 off tickets.

Women Winemakers Tasting Event at Le Sud: In Roscoe Village, woman-owned Le Sud will hold a special “Women Winemakers” tasting event on Thursday, March 2. Guests will explore several selections from female vintners accompanied by hors d’oeuvre, and even bring some bottles home.

International Women’s Day Celebration at Old Town School of Folk Music: This free event, part of the World Music Wednesdays series, will feature Patricia Ortega (Mexico/Cuba), La Paula Herrera (Chile), and Neusa Sauer (Brazil) on March 8 for an unforgettable showcase of Latino American music.

International Women’s Day Market: In Lincoln Square/Ravenswood, this second annual pop-up market will include a curated selection of more than three dozen local, women-owned vendors selling jewelry, beauty products home goods, culinary items, and more. The market will be open all day on Sunday, March 12 at Artifact Events.

Bold Voices, Bold Women: The Beverly Arts Center will host this Women’s History Month UN-Gala honoring women in the arts on Saturday, March 4. The event will feature a live performance of Eve Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues”, along with a post-gala dance party led by female DJs. 

Women in Power with Special Guest Nancy Pelosi: This Women’s History Month event honors women leaders and history makers in the Illinois House with special guest, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. The event, which includes a reception, will take place at RPM Seafood on Friday, March 3.

Mia: Where Have All the Young Girls Gone?: Mary Bonnett’s world premiere play, inspired by real interviews and research, shines a spotlight on missing girls and women. The show debuts on March 9 at Greenhouse Theater Center and runs through April 9.

Fen at Court Theatre: Set in 1980s England, this award-winning play confronts the subtle pressures of gender and class. Directed by Vanessa Stalling, Fen was penned by Caryl Churchill, who is considered one of the greatest living playwrights. The show will run at the Court Theatre through March 5.

Artist-in-Residence: A Long Walk Home: The Chicago Cultural Center will welcome A Long Walk Home, a Chicago-based art organization that empowers young people to end violence against girls and women, as part of their artists-in-residence program. Visitors can participate in a collaborative art project in The Learning Lab all month long.

Chicago landmarks honoring women

Jane Addams Hull-House Museum: Jane Addams was America’s first woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. The social reformer and feminist ran Hull House on the west side of Chicago, which provided housing, childcare, education, and more for the neighborhood’s many immigrant families. Today, the former Hull House complex is a dynamic museum dedicated to social justice issues of past and present. 

Ida B. Wells former residence: This Chicago landmark honors the legacy of Ida B. Wells, the journalist and social reformer who advocated for civil rights, women’s suffrage, and economic justice. She’s remembered for her anti-lynching campaign and as a founding member of the NAACP. 

Gwendolyn Brooks Park and former residence: Gwendolyn Brooks was one of Chicago’s most acclaimed and beloved poets, whose many accolades include a Pulitzer Prize. Her childhood home still stands on the south side of the city, and nearby Brooks Park honors the writer with a bronze statue.

Chicago Women’s Park and Garden: This small, charming green space honors the historical contributions women have made to the city of Chicago. One defining feature of the park is a symbolically powerful statue dedicated to Jane Addams and designed by Louise Bourgeois, known as “one of the most important and influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.” 

LGBTQ+ landmarks: Chicago has been shaped by a long line of LGBTQ+ leaders, including many influential women. Explore their rich legacy through the city’s many landmarks, which honor icons like Lorraine Hansberry, Pearl Hart, and Valerie Taylor. And the Chicago Legacy Walk includes many pioneering women in LGBTQ+ history. 

Women-owned businesses in Chicago

One of the best ways to celebrate Women’s History Month is by supporting local women-owned businesses. Chicago is home to a diverse community of women-owned restaurants, boutiques, bookstores, and beyond. And hear more about their stories in our small business spotlights.

Dining

Ain’t She Sweet Cafe
Brown Sugar Bakery
Saigon Sisters
ERIS Brewery & Cider House
Demera Ethiopian Restaurant
Lexington Betty Smokehouse
Exquisite 501
Lizzy J Cafe
Mindy’s Bakery
Justice of the Pies
Dear Margaret
First Sip Cafe
Cocoa Chili Restaurant & Catering
Monteverde
Rojo Gusano
Arya Bhavan

Shopping

Semicolon Bookstore
Women and Children First bookstore
Laudi Vidni
Essential Elements
Wolfbait & B-girls
Semillas Plant Studio
Volumes Bookcafe
Scratch Goods
B Collective
MASHALLAH Jewelry

Attractions and more

Inside Chicago Walking Tours
The Chopping Block
Gallery Guichard
Chicago’s First Lady Cruises
Chicago Detours
Chicago Food Tours
Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline
Tour Through A Lens
Black Ensemble Theater
Mandala Arts

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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2023 at these Chicago bars and restaurants

St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago is a celebration like no other. With a substantial Irish population — and one of the biggest city-wide St. Patrick’s Day celebrations anywhere — Chicago is the perfect place to spend this holiday.

If you’re looking for a barstool to call home for the day, Chicago’s many local bars and restaurants get into the Irish spirit with specials and celebrations all March long.

Whether or not your ancestors came from Dublin, or you’re just honorary Irish for the weekend, these are some of the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2023 in Chicago.

Bars and restaurants to watch the Chicago River dyeing

St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

Pizzeria Portofino: Enjoy signature cocktails, passed appetizers, pizza stations, and a front-row seat to the dyeing of the Chicago River at Pizzeria Portofino. Grab your tickets today for general admission and VIP table reservations.

Hoyt’s American Tavern: Tucked away inside the Royal Sonesta, Hoyt’s welcomes guests to take in stunning views of the Chicago River. Move through indoor spaces and an outdoor patio for different vantage points of the green river while enjoying Irish-inspired dishes, green beer, and specialty cocktails.

LH on 21 & 22: This rooftop bar atop LondonHouse Chicago will be celebrating St. Paddy’s Day with a green river viewing party, featuring an open bar with bottomless green beer, breakfast bites. live DJs, and epic views of the festivities below.

Travelle at The Langham: At this casually elegant River North restaurant and lounge, you can view the river dyeing festivities from floor-to-ceiling windows while noshing on brunch bites like mini Reuben sandwiches, emerald breakfast pastries, and Irish nachos. Reserve your tickets today.

The Kitchen American Bistro: This waterfront spot will be serving a brunch menu full of festive Irish fun, with green drinks and great eats. Reserve your table today.

RPM Seafood: Enjoy an upscale St. Patrick’s Day at this swanky seafood spot with sweeping river views. Watch the river turn green as you enjoy passed canapes, classic brunch and seafood stations, a premium bar package, and more.

St. Patrick’s Day bar and restaurant specials in Chicago

Cork & Kerry: The south side of Chicago is known for having deep Irish roots. Those who want to get into the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day at an authentic Irish pub should consider one of the Cork & Kerry locations. Whether you choose the Bridgeport or Beverly location, the luck of the Irish will be with you.

Charm’d: This pop-up experience in Wrigleyville features floor-to-ceiling decorations and over-the-top themed drinks across multiple rooms and levels. Make your reservations today.

PB&J: For many, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations begin bright and early. If you’re part of this crowd, consider kicking things off at PB&J. Starting at 8 a.m. on March 11, PB&J is offering an Irish Drink and Bites package. You want to snag tickets to this event ahead of time.

The Gage: The Gage is a great dining choice for those hoping to catch the St. Patrick’s Day parade and river dyeing. Whether you’re more into The Gage’s impressive selection of spirits or a Guinness on tap, everyone will appreciate the proximity to festivities, as well as the historic building and thoughtful ambiance.

LG’s Bar & Kitchen: For a midday St. Patrick’s Day celebration, swing by LG’s Bar & Kitchen in Old Town at 12 p.m. on March 17 for Irish food specials and select $5 drinks, including whiskey shots, green beer, and Irish pints. 

Chief O’Neill’s: Not only has it been called the best Irish pub in Chicago, but it has previously been voted one of the 10 best in the entire world. It’s the place to be for an all-out Irish pub St. Patrick’s Day experience.

Mrs. Murphy’s & Sons Irish Bistro: Another great example of a Chicago Irish pub, Mrs. Murphy’s & Sons Irish Bistro in North Center provides a lively venue for those wanting an authentic way to celebrate the holiday. Reserve a table for March 11 or March 17 to enjoy second-floor lounge seating and live Irish music from noon until 10 p.m.

Charm’d Chicago

Emerald Loop Bar & Grill: Only a stone’s throw from the river, this is an ideal location to take in all things green. The bar opens early on March 11 and March 17, so you’ll get to savor a whole day of Irish food and drinks. Additionally, you’ll also find Irish dance, bagpipers, and Irish music.

Gaslight: Get ready for a St. Patrick’s Day brunch party on March 11 at this popular neighborhood bar in Lincoln Park. As a live DJ amps up the energy, savor an impressive brunch buffet spread and sip on house cocktails and green domestic beer. 

Highline: Located only a block from the Chicago River, this lively sports bar doubles as an arcade bar, offering patrons free classic arcade games. Drop by Highline on March 11 for drinks, an Irish breakfast buffet, games, and live entertainment by the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band. 

Radio Room: Join this River North sports bar for its first-ever St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Tap O’ The Morn. The standard open bar package includes passed Irish-inspired breakfast bites, mimosas, well cocktails, green beer, and festive decor and swag. 

Kirkwood: Accommodating parties both small and large, this Lakeview sports bar offers an incredible beer garden, indoor space, and sidewalk café. Come raise a glass at Kirkwood on March 11, and look forward to build-your-own corned beef sandwiches, drinks, and breakfast favorites, including scrambled eggs, hash tots, and bacon. 

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Our Favorite Chicago Sports Bromances Throughout the Years

Love is in the air! That’s right, Chicago sports fans, today is Valentine’s day and here at UrbanMatter Chicago we love celebrating love. If you’re spending time with a special someone this year then hopefully you’ve figured out a gift by now and made reservations for date night. But if not, don’t sweat it, because we’ve got you covered with our fool-proof Valentine’s day gift guide and list of 17 fun date ideas to get you back on track.You can thank us later.

For those of you who woke up a bit more prepared today – let’s kickoff V-day 2023 with some of our favorite Chicago sports bromances of all time!

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Thx man, seriously though what’s with the no-follow https://t.co/odMLlU0XWI

— Jonathan Toews (@JonathanToews) May 4, 2016

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Kane and Toews

If this Chicago sports bromance was a person, it’d be old enough to drive. We’re starting off our list with one of the strongest sports bromances in history: Patrick Kane and Johnathan Toews.

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This bromance started way back in the year 2007 when Kane was drafted to the Chicago Blackhawks a year after Toews was selected. Since then, the duo has gone on to win three Stanley Cup championships and five times the amount of NHL All-Star appearances combined. While their bromance started in the late 2000’s, it would take another ten years for the two to follow each other on Twitter (see above).

Just goes to show that every couple has their own unique love story.

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It’s a night of crying and pouring my feelings into ice cream now that Bryzzo is over 😢. JK congrats u 2 lovebirds💑 https://t.co/1dSo4JpLqf

— Anthony Rizzo (@ARizzo44) December 30, 2015

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Bryant and Rizzo

This next Chicago sports bromance is – or was – so official that it had its own cute pet name. Just like Bennifer and Brangelina, Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo formed their own super-sport couple in Bryzzo.

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Like Kane and Toews, the Bryzzo couple also won a championship together in the historic 106-year World Series drought winning season of 2015-2016. But for Bryzzo, things got even more serious when the two hooked up for their own Bryzzo ad campaign.

All good things gotta come to an end, and prior to both players being traded from the Cubs in 2021, the couple seemed to fizzle out after Bryant announced his engagement towards the end of 2015. Which, naturally, led to another entertaining Twitter thread (see above, again.)

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Kmet and Graham

Nothing appeared to be tighter than the love these two Chicago Bears tight ends had for each other just a few years ago. They may not have their own pet name, but for Cole Kmet and Jimmy Graham the bromance was real in the tight end room.

During an interview on NBC Sports Chicago’s Countdown to Kickoff, both players had nothing but positive things to say about one another and the veteran Graham said that he’d always be a mentor for the young Kmet. We like to believe he’s kept his word over the years because there’s no question that Cole Kmet has established himself as a strong receiving weapon on the Bears roster.

Mooney and Fields

Our final Chicago sports bromance is one of the fresher ones we’re featuring, but that doesn’t mean the connection isn’t as strong. Like seriously, what’s stronger than a connection between a quarterback and their wide receiver?

During their offseason last summer, Justin Fields and Darnell Mooney had plenty of time to workout together and build up their connection on and off the field. In an interview posted on the team’s Facebook page, both players spoke highly of each other’s work ethic as professionals and their qualities as people.

This past season saw the Mooney-Fields connection lead the team in big yardage receiving plays (20+ yards) with seven and yards per game at 41.1. We sure hope their connection stays strong for years to come!

Featured Image Credit: Chicago Bears Instagram

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Everything You Need to Know about the NASCAR Street Race Weekend

For the first time ever NASCAR is introducing a street race into their Cup Series. A race-style typically saved for open-wheel racing like Formula 1, this will be the first time stock cars are taken away from their standard oval tracks and placed onto a street course. NASCAR has chosen Chicago as the prime location for its Street Race Weekend, a city that used to host a race at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet from 2001-2019. 

However, this will be a completely different animal. Taking these cars through the tall buildings of Chicago and along iconic Lake Michigan will make for some scenic moments. On top of the racing, the city has planned out a festival surrounding the events hosted by NASCAR. Musical guests, The Black Crowes, The Chainsmokers, Charley Crockett, and Miranda Lambert will all perform, it is slated to be an action-packed weekend at Grant Park. 

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When

Saturday, July 1st – Sunday, July 2nd. Gates open at 9 am both days.

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Where

The 12-turn track is placed between Michigan Ave. and Lake Shore Drive. It goes around Grant park and crosses in front of Buckingham Fountain. South Columbus Dr. will be transformed into the pit lane for the race with multiple streets lined by Grandstands for the events. I mean, just look how badass this eNASCAR race looks. 

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Schedule

Saturday, July 1 (Gates open at 9 am)

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10:00 am – Practice and Qualifying
TBD – Pre-Race Concert ft. The Black Crowes
4:00 pm – Nascar Xfinity Series Race
TBD – Post-Race Concert ft. The Chainsmokers

Sunday, July 2 (Gates open at 9 am)

TBD – Pre-Race Concert ft. Charley Crockett and Miranda Lambert
4:30pm – NASCAR Cup Series Race
TBD – Victory Lane Celebration

On top of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, multiple shows and concerts are planned with Grant Park being a Concert Venue. From the looks of the planning, it looks like a jam-packed weekend. With more than just the races on offer, there will be enough entertainment for anyone looking for something to fill their weekend.

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Ticket Information

There are multiple different ticket packages available to suit whatever needs you may need. General Admission tickets get you access to both days of the event

General Admission

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General Admission: $269
General Admission+: $353

Reserved Seats

Field Reserved: $521
Michigan Reserved: $465

Premium Hospitality Clubs

Fountain Club: $1,417
Balbo Club: $857 (SOLD OUT)
President’s Paddock Club: $3,377

Suites: Congress Suite and Garden Suite: Scheduled by Call

On top of all these different ticket packages, there is also the NASCAR Chicago Experiences. These provide racing fans with unparalleled access to the Race, premium seating locations, driver meet-and-greets, pit lane walks and so much more. The information on different packages can be found here.

Any other information can be found on the official website at https://www.nascarchicago.com/. As well as on the official NASCAR Instagram closer to Race Day.

Image Credit: NASCAR Chicago

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Tanta’s Exclusive Warike Dining Experience is an Intimate Journey Through Peruvian History

WARIKE — meaning hidden stew. The word is often used by locals to describe a secret place with amazing food. 

While the word derives from the Quechua language, we are blessed to experience Warike through the lens of a brand new dining experience at Tanta’s cebiche counter from the soul of Executive Chef Roberto Rocha. It’s a perfect harmonious experience as the Chef give his modern take on Peruvian cuisine with influences by Japanese, Chinese, and Italian techniques and flavors.

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Tanta happens to be an Editor’s Choice here at UrbanMatter Chicago. We recently had the opportunity to experience Chef Roberto’s delightful collaboration with Chef Patrick of Jinsei Motto at the Tanta x Jinsei Motto 3-day Dining Event this past weekend, in addition to frequent patronage for our monthly dose of Pisco and the Nigiri Trio—highlighted defiantly with the Chef’s Criollo. So, when we caught word that the Chef would be taking three nights per week to map out a culinary journey through Peruvian history we knew it was our obligation to inform you on everything there is to know about this incredible dining experience.

What is it?

Tanta’s Warike Dining Experience

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Where is it?

Tanta Chicago 118 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

What Can You Expect?

Each guest looking to partake in the Warike Dining Experience will be greeted with a personalized dining menu and welcome drink. The 7-course meal expertly planned & prepared by Chef Roberto will then begin, and guests will explore the story and inspiration behind each dish in a journey guided by their server. There is something beyond the pure unadulterated taste of good food that has the ability to transport you into a different place. There’s an obligation, if you will, that each course provides something unique and memorable in ways other dining experiences cannot. Welcome to Warike.

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What’s the Why?

Everything has a why. It’s the core reasoning for almost all decisions we make. Every experience should be just that—an experience with a ‘why’. Tanta is excited to continually share the traditions and flavors of Peru within its new concept, Warike. The why can be complex. Or, like in Tanta’s case, it can very simply derive from centuries of history and tradition all curated perfectly into a love letter; an ode to the hidden gems known for exceptional dishes and experiences the Chef’s Peruvian ancestors shared together. At Tanta, guests are invited to take part in this new culinary adventure designed to take their palates through a journey of experience and education.

When is it?

Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. There will be two slots available per night. The first seating will be at 5:30pm and the second seating will be at 8pm.

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Each Warike experience will last approximately 2 hours.

Seating Information

With only two seatings per night, three nights per week, the maximum capacity of participants will be 6 guests per round.

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Reservation Process and Pricing

Reservations are necessary for Warike. Guests can pre-book their spot for this dining experience via OpenTable, in addition to calling Tanta at (312) 222-9700. Upon making your reservation, please inform the Tanta team member of any allergies or dietary restrictions. Tanta’s Warike Dining Experience will be $150 per person, to which each guest will receive a personalized menu, a welcome cocktail, along with a 7 course meal. A pairing cocktail option is also available ($45/3 cocktails).

Beverage pairing is available but not mandatory. Dietary and allergy restrictions are not accommodated at this time. If you would like to book all six seats at a future date, please get in touch with us at [email protected].

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All images courtesy of Mistey Nguyen

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Where to Celebrate Fat Tuesday in Chicago

Fat Tuesday is right around the corner, and you know what that means! Grab yourself some Paczkis and head out for a night of celebration as we kickstart Mardi Gras season! Hurricanes, half-priced shots, shrimp boil, gumbo… this is the week we can forget about our calorie restriction and drink and party all we want! Get ready to celebrate Fat Tuesday in Chicago at these local favorite spots!

1072 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Join Frontier on Tuesday, February 21st for their annual Fat Tuesday Shrimp Boil. For only $49/person, guests can indulge in (all you can eat!) boiled shrimp, corn, and potatoes, in addition to one Abita or Hurricane & King Cake. Additional specials include $9 Hurricanes & Sazeracs and $5 Abitas. There will be two seatings offered, one at 5:30 PM and one at 8 PM. Seatings will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Score your ticket today via Tock, (5:30 seating, 8:00 seating) or their website.

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1415 N Wood St, Chicago, IL 60622

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Chicago’s favorite NOLA-inspired restaurant will host a Fat Tuesday Burlesque Show! The show will begin at 10 PM with host Miss Nyxon and will be featuring performances by Camille Leon, Muffy St. Clair, and more (along with live music!). Offerings include $12 Frozen & Rocks Hurricanes, $24 Frozen Hurricane Yards ($20 refills), $12 Jambalaya, $21 1/2 Dozen Chargrilled Oysters, and more!

Ina Mae will be open from 11 AM-2 AM, with reservations being accepted between 11 AM-3 PM. Make your reservation today via Tock, or by visiting their website.

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1925 W Cortland St, Chicago, IL 60622

Celebrate Fat Tuesday at the Bourbon Street of Bucktown, also known as Lottie’s Pub. On Tuesday, February 21st, enjoy offerings that include $10 Ina Mae Hurricans, $10 Sazeracs, $10 Cajun Chicken Sandwiches, $10 Cajun Shrimp Tacos, and $8 Gumbo. Specials will be available all “Party Gras” weekend (Thursday, February 16th-Tuesday, February 21st). To reserve a table, please email [email protected] ; walk-ins are also welcomed.

Image Credit: aliveOne

2683 N Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614

aliveOne in Lincoln Park will celebrate Fat Tuesday on Tuesday, February 21 with $5 Abita Purple Haze beers and $6 aliveOne Daiquiris. Guests can kick off the evening with their half-price happy hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. featuring half-off everything (excluding shots).

Image Credit; Central Park Bar

2924 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Are you looking for an authentic NOLA celebration experience… I mean, drinking experience? Chicagoans are invited to get in the Mardi Gras spirit at Avondale’s Central Park Bar on Fat Tuesday. Specials will include $6 Hurricane cocktails all night and half-price happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Image Credit: Easy Bar

1944 W Division St., Chicago, IL 60622

On Fat Tuesday, Easy Bar will give away complimentary King Cakes from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. (while supplies last). Guests who find a baby in their King Cake will win New Belgium swag. New Belgium beers will be available on tap for $4 each. Half-price happy hour will also be available from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Image Credit: The Rambler

4128 N Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL 60618

The Rambler will celebrate Fat Tuesday in their spacious, weatherproofed beer garden with specials like a Shrimp Boil Plate with jumbo shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes ($18). Drink specials will include $8 Pimms Cups and $8 Sazeracs. The Rambler will also offer a themed Island Oasis cocktail menu featuring $8 Hurricanes, Strawberry Daiquiris, Pina Coladas and Bushwackers.

Starting at 7 p.m on Tuesday, February 21, guests can participate in New Orleans-themed music trivia. Trivia will be free to join, and prizes will be awarded throughout the evening. Tables can be reserved by emailing events@theramblerchicago.com.

Image Credit: Chicago Firehouse Restaurant

1401 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

From 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 21, Guests may indulge in a special Fat Tuesday menu that brings to life all the flavor and fun of New Orleans while enjoying live music from High-Hat Second Line, a New Orleans brass and jazz band with a Chicago twist.

The Cajun-inspired menu will feature classic favorites including Crawfish Mac & Cheese, Cajun Fried Chicken Jambalaya, Shrimp Po’ Boy, Creole Seafood Gumbo, and more. Specialty cocktails include Hurricanes and Sazeracs, with plenty of Abita Purple Haze beer flowing throughout the evening. The overall experience is available at $55 including tax and service fee, which covers the buffet, live music, and mardi gras beads.

Image Credit: Tuman’s Tap & Grill

2159 W. Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60622

Is it even Fat Tuesday celebration if you don’t fill yourself up with gumbo!? Tuman’s celebrates Mardi Gras by augmenting the regular menu with a New Orleans classic on Fat Tuesday. Enjoy Louisiana-inspired Shrimp & Andouille Sausage Gumbo ($14) from 4-10 p.m. Tuesday, February 21.

Featured Image: Frontier Chicago

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10 Black-Owned Restaurants in Chicago You Need to Try

During Black History Month, we turn our attention towards the achievements and contributions of African Americans in the US, while recognizing the history of racism and oppression the community has suffered. While Black History and Black Culture are represented in various forms and media in Chicago, one of the best and most exciting ways to learn about a culture different from your own is through cuisine. Living in Chicago, are surrounded by tons of black-owned restaurants to stop in, enjoy some great food, and support black-owned businesses. To make your exploration more guided, here are our top 10 picks of black-owned restaurants in Chicago.

By the way, make sure you check out Black Restaurant Week before it ends!

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2748 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

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It’s no secret that Batter and Berries is known for their incredible waffles and breakfast food, but this is also one of the many places you can enjoy while supporting a black-owned restaurant. From french toast to breakfast sandwiches and more, Batter and Berries is a great choice when you’re looking to enjoy the most important meal of the day. 

4248 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60653

Only open Friday through Sunday, it’s important to schedule some time in your weekend to get food at Cleo’s. Serving up “a creole twist on Southern classics”, you’re sure to enjoy tons of dishes like fried catfish with lump crab and housemade remoulade sauce, a mouthwatering hot honey chicken sandwich, or classic baked macaroni and cheese. Best part? Bears fans can enjoy a taste of Cleo’s at Soldier Field during home games. 

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1072 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

We’re inching closer and closer to patio season, and one place you absolutely must check out is the Frontier. This black-owned, lodge-style restaurant has everything you need for Game Day, brunch, and everything in between. Pairing your food with a great drink has never been easier, since The Frontier has a rotating beer and cider menu, cocktails, seltzers, and Basil Hayden’s Whiskey Wednesdays. 

1415 N Wood St, Chicago, IL 60622

This Wicker Park stop has become a staple in serving up food that says “the Big Easy meets the Windy City” (source). Chef and owner Brian Jupiter named Ina Mae’s after his great-grandmother, and continues to bring her legacy to life through live music, New Orleans style cuisine, and a “neighborhood feel”. Stop in for a Po Boy, but you’re guaranteed to stay for the welcoming atmosphere. 

526 E 43rd St, Chicago, IL 60653

If you’re looking for a lighter meal, head to Ain’t She Sweet. This cafe features all the favorites like sandwiches and wraps alongside smoothies and sweet treats. Open Monday through Friday from 10-6 in Bronzeville, this is bound to become a new favorite lunch spot if your impending return to office dates take you back to the South Loop! 

131 N Clinton St, Chicago, IL 60661

Kathyrn Miles, owner and chef of Kathryn’s Soul, started cooking at the age of 10. From there, after leaving the corporate world, she took the pandemic as an opportunity to lean into her passion and open this incredible spot for baked salmon, meatloaf, chicken alfredo, and much more. Through honoring her late-mother’s legacy, Kathryn used her namesake to follow her dreams and serve up delicious food to Chicago. 

4801 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640

If you have yet to try Ethiopian food, consider this your sign. Demera in Uptown is a great place to try out some new cuisine. With popular favorites like messob, a plethora of tibs, and injera, you’re guaranteed to find something new that you love. Restaurant goers are awed over the hand-eaten meals and exotic flavors, leaving no wonder why they were featured in the Michelin Guide and many other Chicago publications. 

3615 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60624

With visits only available by reservation, a trip to Soulé is definitely worth the wait. Bridgette Flagg, owner and head chef, dishes up southern inspired soul-food and has been named the best soul food restaurant in Illinois by Travel Noire. Whether you’re stopping in for the shrimp and grits, lamb chops, or honey drizzled fried chicken, Soulé is definitely one to watch as it continues to 

328 E 75th Street, Chicago, IL 60619

Sweet tooth? Head to Brown Sugar Bakery! With cake slices, cupcakes, chocolate covered treats, your tastebuds will be screaming the praises that are so well-deserved. Brown Sugar Bakery’s flagship store is in Grand Crossing, but they also have a walk-up store in Navy Pier for a sweet treat during your touristy-spent days! 

352 E 71st St, Chicago, IL 60619

In the Greater Grand Crossing neighborhood, you’ll find Doughboy’s. With an expansive menu that features chicken wings, jumbo shrimp, and their world famous Spaghedough (spaghetti served with ground turkey, tomatoes, and peppers), there is no way that you’ll be left feeling even a little bit hungry after a trip to Doughboy’s!

Featured Image: Demera Ethiopian 

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