The Chicago Traveler

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 is low in calories (15-20 in one ounce) and is distilled from a variety of starches (including barley and sweet potatoes). Its incredible versatility results in numerous delicious flavors. The lounge offers over a dozen versions of the signature spirit, all of which make their …read more

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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 and Wine Bar. The River North eatery serves French basics amidst casual, rustic surroundings.
8. Le Bouchon. Authentic and delicious French dishes at remarkable prices make this bistro one of Bucktown’s best.
7. Angelina Ristorante. In Lakeview, the popular date spot provides authentic Italian in a comfortable …read more

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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 stage. Exposed brick with light wood and cork details complete the contemporary space (southeast of Soulistic Studio).
If you choose to sit a spell, the wine list is categorized quite neatly, separated by color and body. A few are available by the glass, but most come …read more

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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) and Andersonville (and consequently its surrounding Edgewater neighborhood). A high concentration of bars, shops, and restaurants can be found among the colorful pylons of Boystown. Andersonville has a few bars as well but is better known for its boutiques and “hip” eateries.
While it is by …read more

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Sure, your local storefront seafood market that fries the heck out of your fish may be tasty, but it’s not very striking. When it’s time to impress your date, you’re going to need something smooth and stylish. Welcome to Mirai Sushi.
With a sleek dining room and trendy lounge (between Crust and Bravo Tapas), Mirai is often full of Wicker Park hipsters relaxing over sake and wasabi. Fresh fish is flown in daily, ingredients for the menu’s various rolls, entrees, and delicious appetizers like the grilled shrimp and steamed pork buns. Standout dishes like king crab in spicy mayo and steamed …read more

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In an era of food chains and carbon-copy restaurants, it can be difficult to find a place that still believes in the purity and simplicity of home-grown food. However, chef Paul Virant cures his own meat and works hard to find ingredients locally for his contemporary American cuisine inspired by Western European fare at Vie in Western Springs.
The restaurant has a modern look with leather banquettes and glass tile, the walls painted shades of white and gray. I have to admit, I wasn’t a big fan of the bum-chilling aluminum chairs, but the soft lighting and wood-burning fireplace add a …read more

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Wine bars have a reputation of being stuffy and arrogant. However, The Tasting Room at Randolph Wine Cellars sets a sophisticated yet comfortable vibe with its exposed brick, soft lighting, and subdued music. Here, you and your friends can choose from over 100 wines to enjoy by the glass or the bottle.
Whether you’re a connoisseur or a novice, The Tasting Room can cater to your desires. Sure, we’ve all heard of the grand Napa Valley wines, but here you can have a taste of vintages from Italy, France, Australia, and South Africa. These taste portions are perfect for trying something …read more

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Ah, the punch bowl. It’s a staple at every party and gathering, for better or worse. And it’s rarely as innocent as it appears. Under-spiked at the prom or over-spiked at college parties, these beverage bins are seldom just punch. It’s about time someone got the mixture right. The chic and sophisticated Rebar makes its own attempt at Trump International Hotel & Tower.
A tone of elegance and luxury begins upon entrance, as an overly attentive host greets you at the top of the marble staircase. You can choose from the stools at the bar or the clusters of comfortable chairs …read more

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Despite what the name might suggest, Big Chicks is a north side bar that mostly caters to gay men and is miles away from the Boystown scene, both literally and figuratively. Located in the Uptown neighborhood, the bar features plenty of unique artwork and often has a crowd as mixed as its drinks. From preppy boys and jocks to blue collars and “bears,” everyone is laid back and attitude-free.
This watering hole is more than just a few bartenders slinging drinks. Big Chicks often hosts community events, raffles, and free Sunday barbecues. This small bar gets crowded on the weekends, …read more

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Chicago has plenty to offer when it comes to nightlife, but if you ever find yourself in a club rut, it’s time to throw your evening into a Spin.
While located at the south end of Boystown, Chicago’s GLBT nightlife neighborhood, the club caters to a diverse clientele. No matter what your label or orientation, Spin provides plenty to look forward to. Just around the corner from Orange, there are weekly promotions, the most popular of which may be the midnight shower contest on Friday nights. Men and women get wet and wild every week, bearing nothing but a tiny towel …read more

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