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The Chicago Traveler

October 2nd, 2008

Going All the Veerasway

I have to admit, as much as I enjoy visiting new restaurants, I have a hard time trying new foods and flavors. When I find something I like, I stick to it. So my approach to Indian cuisine was cautious at best, considering many of its spices and curries are “exotic” by American standards. I […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments

September 23rd, 2008

Have a Whale of a Meal at Pequod’s Pizza

It has been some time since I last visited Pequod’s Pizza, but it was an experience I won’t soon forget. I actually used to work near the restaurant, and I’m surprised (and saddened) that I didn’t dine here sooner.
T-shirt-and-jeans types (many of them students at nearby DePaul University) enter beneath the blue awning and enjoy […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments

September 22nd, 2008

Civic Opera Building: the Throne on the River

If you’re fortunate enough to take an architectural tour down the Chicago River, one of the most memorable buildings is the Civic Opera Building (a.k.a. Civic Opera House). Across the River from the Riverside Plaza and across the street from the UBS Tower, this limestone skyscraper is shaped like a gigantic armchair facing the River, […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments

September 18th, 2008

On with the Shochu

What’s your favorite cocktail? Gin and tonic? Rum and cola? Vodka and fruit juice? Sure, these classics are great, but perhaps your mixology menu could use a refresher. Have a taste of Shochu.
Shochu, a restaurant bar in Lakeview (formerly Platiyo, three doors north of Andalous), is named after a popular beverage in Japan. The alcohol […]

By Matt B -- 3 comments

September 16th, 2008

Ten Best Romantic Spots 2008

Romance shouldn’t be reserved for just Valentine’s Day. As the temperatures begin to cool down, you can keep your relationship hot by visiting one or more of the ten best romantic date spots (courtesy of Citysearch and Yelp).

10. Shanghai Terrace. With elegant art and a beautiful view, this Asian restaurant offers delicious sophistication.
9. Cyrano’s Bistrot […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments

September 15th, 2008

The Art of Cocktailing

Some things just naturally go together. Beer and baseball, wine and cheese, for example. But what about cocktails? House of Campari and SWINDLE Magazine present the “Art of Cocktailing,” wherein art and cocktails are brought together in a series of events across the country.
Various bars and lounges throughout the U.S. (including San Francisco, Philadelphia, Los […]

By Matt B -- 2 comments

September 9th, 2008

Keep Company at Juicy Wine Company

At Juicy Wine Company in River West, wine lovers browse through the retail space and select their preferred combinations of vintages and complements (pate, olives, and cheese). You can take these purchases home or head upstairs to the lounge. Here, hipsters gab in semicircular booths and small tables while a DJ spins on an elevated […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments

September 9th, 2008

Ten Best Gay & Lesbian Bars 2008

Chicago is renowned for its culture and diversity, bringing together people from all backgrounds and labels. The gay and lesbian community plays a significant part in the Windy City’s population, attracting men and women from less resourceful rural areas across the Midwest. Two of Chicago’s most thriving gay neighborhoods are Boystown (inside the Lakeview/Wrigleyville area) […]

By Matt B -- 1 comment

September 2nd, 2008

Feeling Under the Leather

If you think all gay men are lisping, fashion-conscious, and limp-wristed, you’d be sorely mistaken. There are entire subcultures dedicated to expressions of masculinity and the body “anti-image.” Take, for example, the leather culture. If you’re unfamiliar with this scene, think of the stereotypical biker bar. (In fact, many conjecture that the leather world emerged […]

By Matt B -- 2 comments

August 28th, 2008

Fresh Faces in Food

The restaurant scene in Chicago is constantly evolving, always keeping up with people’s new tastes or trends. Here are a few restaurants that have only been around for a year or so, but they have already made a name for themselves in the dining biz.
Chalkboard, a contemporary American restaurant in North Center, is just that: […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments