The Chicago Traveler

When was the last time you used a typewriter, or saw one for that matter? The last time I used one was over ten years ago, to write up a speech I gave in high school. And even then, it was by choice, as I had other more modern options I could have used. There is a unique joy in the sound of typewriter keys click-clacking. However, in this world of computers, laptops, and smartphones, you’d think it’d be impossible to find a typewriter. Not so.
In a small storefront in Ravenswood, you’ll find hundreds of these writing tools of days …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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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 from the biker culture in the late 1940s.) There are no Harleys involved here though. Just leather in all shapes and sizes: everything from a simple leather jacket to a full-on leather outfit.
One of Chicago’s well-known leather bars is the Cell Block. With its dark …read more

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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: a restaurant with oversized chalkboards that list the specials of the day. Rather than constantly reprinting menus, the owners are able to easily change these boards on a daily basis. Aside from the namesake wall-length chalkboard, the small dining room features white molding, linen-clad tables, …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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• The annual Cinco de Mayo Festival at Douglas Park features live music, food booths, carnival rides, games, and a parade at 12 noon on Sunday. (May 2-4)
• The 75th annual SAIC Fashion Show is produced by School of the Art Institute of Chicago students and faculty. Located at the Sullivan Center, the exhibition is preceded by a cocktail reception and features a meet-and-greet with the designers afterward. (May 2)
• For four nights, Adobo Grill will feature special Mexican menu items and $5 margaritas. (May 2-5)
• Can’t party on Monday? Hit up the Dos de Mayo Party at Easy Bar, …read more

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• The Annoyance pays homage to Harrison Ford via Bear Force One. After a series of assassinations, the Secretary of Agriculture becomes the first gay “bear” President of the United States. Now, the terrorists are after him, his partner “cub,” and his new staff! (Fridays, ends Apr 11)
• The 2008 Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in the nation and showcases domestic and imported cars, trucks, and SUVs. Of course, there are also plenty of interesting experimental and concept vehicles to see, too. (Feb 8-17)
• If you’re going to spend a lot of money on a date, maybe …read more

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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Whether you’re lovesick or sick of love, there’s something in town for you.
• Your date’s a little crabby, but you love him/her nonetheless. Why not go out for a little crabbiness you can both handle? Sam Houston’s Charhouse is offering four celebrated entrées, including a full serving of Alaskan king crab legs. Another option is the Mixed Grill with a 6-oz prime top sirloin, rotisserie chicken breast, and grilled shrimp scampi. (4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., menu prices) (map) (link)
• Oysters are widely known for their aphrodisiac qualities. Shaw’s Crab House has a …read more

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When I first walked into Agami, I thought I was in the wrong neighborhood. A contemporary sushi place with this fanciful décor? I obviously had to be downtown. But no, this dining room featuring a curved bar, sushi bar, and striking red banquettes is found in Chicago’s north side, in Uptown. The textured turquoise walls suggest an oceanic venture, accompanied by sky-high seaweed sculptures. If that weren’t enough to get the point across, large flat-screen TVs project scenes of underwater footage.
The menu is extensive, offering dozens of recognizable maki, nigiri, and sashimi options, along with a few seasonal specialties. Start …read more

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As you can imagine, there are hundreds of New Year’s Eve events in Chicago, giving you plenty of ways to celebrate the New Year. Here are just a few of the most recommendable:
• Fat Cat: What could be more Chicago than celebrating Capone-style? Get out the flapper dresses and zoot suits for this Roaring ‘20s party, and you may end up winning the costume contest. Even if you don’t, you’ll love the upscale hors d’oeurves and open top-shelf bar. A DJ spins vintage music as well as modern-day hits. (9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m., $75-$100) (map) (link)
• Hyatt Regency O’Hare: …read more

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