In a small storefront in Ravenswood, you’ll find hundreds of these writing tools of days gone by, stacked on shelves from floor to ceiling. Independence Business Machines is the last typewriter repair shop in the city, and one of only a handful left in the entire country! Since 1964, owner Steve Kazmierski has been restoring all kinds of manual and electric typewriters.

Despite what you may think, this store is not an empty museum. Customers are always stopping in. According to Kazmierski, many newspaper journalists actually prefer old-fashioned manual typewriters. Ironically, Steve himself does not type very well; he uses his two forefingers.

Some of the machines date back to the late 19^th century. And while they may be 100 years old (or more), you’ll be surprised to find that many of the antique machines are still in working order. Collectors would pay into the thousands for these pieces of history, which Kazmierski spends over a dozen hours restoring.

I am a gadget fan, and I enjoy all the conveniences that modern technologies afford us. Keyboards come in all shapes and sizes—from flexible to light-up to not even there!—but nothing beats the sound of the original. Chicago is helping keep this piece of history from being entirely lost.

Photo credit: (c/o SXC) Marcin Sokołowski, mirko delcaldo

Independence Business Machines: 1623 W Montrose Ave; 773-248-5548
Mon – Fri: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Sat: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Street parking
Public trans: Bus # 78 or Brown Line train (Montrose)
http://chicagotypewriters.tripod.com/

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

While it is by no means an all-inclusive list, here are ten of the best same-sex bars (courtesy of Citysearch and Yelp) plus a few honorable mentions.

Honorable Mention: Hydrate. This club’s thumping beat spills out onto Halsted Street, as does the line to get in the door.

Honorable Mention: The Closet. This lesbian dive gives women the (small) space they need to drink, relax, and dance.

Honorable Mention: Touché. If The Closet is a dive bar for lesbians, this is the gay-male version. Plenty of adult-theme nights might have you discovering something new about yourself.

Honorable Mention: Spin. This Boystown club attracts men and women of all orientations. Also, why shower before going out when you can shower at the club?

10. Circuit. While everyone else is thumping house and techno beats, Circuit grooves to Latin rhythms, urban tunes, and even hip-hop favorites.

9. Cell Block. Looking like the dark and intimidating biker of Boystown, this leather bar is probably one of the friendliest entrances to the interesting subculture.

8. The Eagle. A true piece of Chicago history, this business caters to the gruff and tough side of the gay community.

7. Charlie’s. Even in the big city, a cowboy needs his own lil’ place where he can two-step and line dance.

6. Roscoe’s. The dance mixes and pitcher specials keep the boys coming back to this lively (albeit community-negligent) Boystown mainstay.

5. Jackhammer. With a dance floor, pool table, and patio, the Rogers Park establishment is a party upstairs and “business” downstairs.

4. Berlin. Another dance club that attracts everyone and anyone, Berlin has several theme nights and is a popular stop for the late-night crowds.

3. The North End. No fuss, no frills. Guys stop in here to shoot pool and throw darts, all while catching the game… or the newest pop music video.

2. Sidetrack. Chicago’s biggest and most popular gay bar has over 2 dozen video screens and is best known for its comedy nights and Showtunes Sundays.

1. Big Chicks. With a friendly clientele, great atmosphere, and cheap burgers and drinks, this north side bar is a hit with every crowd.

Photo credit: (c/o SXC) Manu M, Rodolfo Clix, Martin Simonis, (c/o Flickr) josephp, SSCusp, RandomlyRoaming, polomex, davco9200, rcktmanil, lobstar28

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

One of Chicago’s well-known leather bars is the Cell Block. With its dark façade and daunting name, you might hesitate going in. However, the Cell Block is probably the softest approach to the leather world. Located on Halsted Street, the bartenders here have seen people of all kinds walk through the door, from the macho mustaches to the giggling girls wandering in from next door Kit Kat. The room is dark and perhaps intimidating, and men in chaps sit on stools around a bar with a friendly (and usually shirtless) guy slings drinks. Dance music is heard occasionally, but the guys here just subtly bob their head to the beat.

Another light-hearted approach to the subculture is Jackhammer in Rogers Park (north of Pressure Billiards). This recently renovated bar now has a brightly lit back area with a pool table and old-school arcade games, as well as a smoker-friendly patio. On the weekends, guys (and a few gals) fill the tiny dance floor in the front room. While the bar still touts itself a “leather bar,” you’ll find people from all walks of life here. There are a variety of events and drinks specials throughout the week, but don’t come if you’re overly modest. The bartenders might be shirtless, the dancer on stage will be pants-less, and the men on the TV screens will be… well, you get the idea.

If you’re ready for a heavier leather scene, just two doors north of Jackhammer is Touché. Everyone is familiar with the concept of a dive bar; this is just the gay version. Dark and windowless, the bar caters to a typically older and weathered crowd, except on theme nights (which there are plenty of). Touché hosts benefits, fetish parties, beer busts, and cookouts. It also is the meeting place for several clubs, including the Great Lakes Bears (hairy, husky men), Windy City Gay Naturists (nudists), and M.A.F.I.A. (don’t ask).

The pinnacle of Chicago’s leather scene can be found at the Eagle. This bar probably deserves a post by itself because it’s not just a bar, it’s an institution. The “Eagle” can be found in New York City, DC, Atlanta, Phoenix, Denver, Minneapolis, and more. Founded in 1958 as the “Gold Coast,” the city’s first leather bar, it is truly a piece of Chicago history.

The signature steel truck bed of an entrance has been removed recently to allow bar patrons to step outside for a smoke. Inside, the front bar is huge and provides plenty of seating. The walls are adorned with paintings akin to Tom of Finland, and motorcycle boots sit atop the bar to collect the bartenders’ tips. There is a second bar located in the “club room,” where a dress code is in place on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, filtering the leather veterans from the novices.

Every one of these bars has a back room (or in Jackhammer’s case, a basement) where the clientele takes ‘friendly’ to a whole new level. Unless you have the inclination to see (or participate in) more “adult” behaviors, you’ll want to steer clear of these areas and stick to the main bar.

Finally, as proof of the leather culture’s significance, the International Mister Leather is a conference and contest held annually since 1979 right here in Chicago. The contest began as a promotion at the Gold Coast, but it soon became so popular, it had to move out of the bar and into a Michigan Avenue hotel. Now, the event attracts thousands of attendees of every age, race, and gender, from the “hardcore” well-practiced to the curious novice.

While the leather subculture invites people of all labels and backgrounds, it is probably most visible and associated with the gay community. This just goes to show that the gay population is so much more than disco balls and feather boas.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) SSCusp, davco9200, (c/o IML Press Center) BULLmanX

Cell Block: 3702 N Halsted St; 773-665-8064
Mon – Fri: 4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Sat: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Sun: 2:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult
Public trans: Bus # 8, 152 or Red Line train (Addison)
http://www.cellblock-chicago.com/

Jackhammer: 6406 N Clark St; 773-743-5772
Mon – Fri: 4:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Sat: 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m.
Sun: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult, lot across the street fills quickly
Public trans: Bus # 22, 36, 151, 155
http://www.jackhammer-chicago.com/

Touché: 6412 N Clark St; 773-465-7400
Mon – Fri: 5:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Sat: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m.
Sun: 12 noon – 4:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult, lot across the street fills quickly
Public trans: Bus # 22, 36, 151, 155
http://www.touchechicago.com/

Chicago Eagle: 5015 N Clark St; 773-728-0050
Sun – Fri: 8:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Sat: 8:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult, lot across the street fills quickly
Public trans: Bus # 22
http://www.chicagoeagle.com/

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

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, and chandeliers. The menu includes beef stew, crunchy Southern-fried chicken, and tasty pork tenderloin. There’s even a decent wine list… with its own chalkboard, of course.

Sura is an upscale establishment without the upscale prices. Between Cupcakes and Intelligentsia, its Thai-inspired cuisine with a French influence is offered in small dishes, enabling diners to try a variety of flavors in one sitting. If the plates appear like little works of art, it may be due to the very modern décor of the restaurant itself. Feeling a bit like an art museum, Sura is dressed all in white, except for the occasional accent or accessory. While most of the menu consists of tapas like coconut-crusted shrimps or scallops ceviche, there are entrees available, like the teriyaki-glazed tilapia and tamarind cashew chicken.

Finally, the term “supper club” may sound old-fashioned, but the Cordis Brothers Supper Club is far from old and dusty. Beneath the brass chandeliers and tinted mirrors, families and couples of all ages enjoy the establishment’s concept: pay one price for a complete meal. Unlike many other restaurants where salads, soups, and side dishes are all listed a la carte and priced separately, here you can find an affordable way to enjoy a great-tasting dinner. I recommend the restaurant’s signature dishes: baby back ribs or the pork chop parmigiana (butterflied, flattened, sauteed, and buried under marinara sauce and mozzarella).

With great flavors and excellent service, these restaurants are sure to last the long haul.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) polomex (1, 2, 3)

Chalkboard ($$): 4343 N Lincoln Ave; 773-477-7144
Afternoon Tea
Sat – Sun: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Dinner
Weds – Mon: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Street parking difficult (Do NOT park in the lot across the street)
Public trans: Bus # 11, 78
http://www.chalkboardrestaurant.com/

Sura ($): 3124 N Broadway Ave; 773-248-7872
Mon – Thurs: 4:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat: 11:00 a.m. – 12 midnight
Sun: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Street parking difficult
Public trans: Bus # 36, 77
http://www.surachicago.com/

Cordis Brothers Supper Club ($$$): 1625 W Irving Park Rd; 773-935-1000
Sun, Tues – Thurs: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat: 5:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Free parking lot; valet available
Public trans: Bus # 9, X9, 80, X80
http://www.cordisbrothers.com/

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

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, but there are plenty of specials to check out during the week also. Mondays feature $1 burgers, Tuesdays offer a beer-of-the-month special, Wednesdays are $4 martini nights, and Thursdays provide $10 Blue Moon pitchers. On Fridays and Saturdays, the quiet long room next to the bar area does a complete turn-around, becoming a popular dance floor where DJs spin house and dance music.

Curvy women, muscled men, lean lesbians, and husky homos: all are invited to have a burger and a beer at Big Chicks.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) sierraromeo, lobstar28

Big Chicks: 5024 N Sheridan Rd; 773-728-5511
Mon – Fri: 4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Sat: 3:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Sun: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult, free lot available
Public trans: Bus # 92, 151 or Red Line train (Argyle)
http://www.bigchicks.com/

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

• The 75^th 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, featuring Dos Equis brews, great food, and a raffle. Proceeds benefit the Foundation for Community Betterment. (May 2)

• The 18^th annual Alivio y Salud Run for Health near Harrison Park includes a 5K run, a 2-mile (3.2-km) walk, and a kids’ dash. A health fair takes place afterward. (May 3)

• Dogs need fun too! The 14^th annual Bark in the Park includes a pet/owner look-alike contest, a 5K walk, a souvenir photo booth, a canine fashion parade, a doggy obstacle course, and a pet-tricks contest. Proceeds benefit the Anti-Cruelty Society. (May 3)

• Cheer on your favorite horse at the Derby Day Party at Fizz Bar & Grill. Make the experience authentic with $9 mint juleps in an official Derby glass ($5 refills) and a free buffet full of Kentucky dishes. (May 3)

• It’s time for “the biggest Polish parade outside of Poland.” The Polish Constitution Day Parade in Grant Park celebrates the anniversary of the ratification of the Polish constitution in 1791. This year’s theme is Polonia’s Youth: Our Pride and Our Future. (May 3)

• The 5-mile (8-km) Stray Cat Strut kicks off Be Kind to Animals Week. Rain or shine, the walk begins from the Tree House Animal Foundation’s Uptown location and ends at the Bucktown branch. (May 4)

• Written by Ifa Bayeza and directed by Oz Scott, The Ballad of Emmett Till is a historical drama at the Goodman Theatre about the gruesome 1955 Mississippi murder of a 14-year-old African-American from Chicago. The production is a moving combination of jazz, poetry, and theatre. (ends June 1)

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) kk+, (c/o SXC) Iwan Beijes

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

• 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 it should be for a good cause. At the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation 17^th Annual Dream Date Auction, you can bid on date packages designed by local singles. Choices include international getaways, exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, and premium sporting event and concert tickets. Must be 21 or older. (Feb

• Hockey isn’t just for boys. Women can learn the basics of the game from current Chicago Blackhawks players and personnel during the Ladies Hockey Hook-Up. The event includes an appetizer buffet, martinis, gift bags, and more. (Feb

• Doc Films, a student film society at the University of Chicago, is holding the Japan Foundation Midwest Film Festival, featuring five contemporary Japanese films, all centered on the country’s post-WW2 generation. (Feb 8-10)

• Tough-skinned? Take a dip in the ice-cold waters of Lake Michigan as part of the Lakeview Polar Bear Club’s 7^th Annual Celebration of Shrinkage. This year, the group will be raising money in support of the Rowell family. (Feb 9)

• Let’s get naked! Er, rather, find naked. Go on the hunt for nudity as part of The Naked at the Art Institute Scavenger Hunt, where you’ll be on the lookout for muscle men, bathing beauties, provocative Picassos, and peeping Toms. No previous experience with art (or nudity) is required. (Feb 9, 16)

• The Lunar New Year Parade honors the Chinese Year of the Rat with dragon and lion dances, marching bands, floats, and more. (Feb 9) (parade route)

• Just in time for Valentine’s Day… ladies can get pole dancing and striptease lessons at Flirty Girl Nite Out. This ladies-only social also offers free manicures, pedicures, makeovers, massages, hair styling, and gift bags. (Feb 9)

• At the second annual Pink Valentine’s Day Party at Victor Hotel, both couples and singles can enjoy a body painting fashion show, a live photo shoot, drink specials, and contests. (Feb 9)

Photo credit: hthg1983

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

• 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 daily-changing selection of oysters that are flown in from waters off the Northwest and Northeast coasts. And there are plenty of menu options designed just for the two of you. Get lost in the mood set by the 1940s-style dining room and a couple glasses of sparkling wine. (5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., prix-fixe $46.95 per person, regular menu available) (map) (link)

• What better way to celebrate the romantic day than with a French kiss? Sid Ranck, the sommelier at Mon Ami Gabi, has created his own “French kiss”: Chambord, crème de cacao, Frangelico, and champagne together in a flute glass with a chocolate-stuffed cherry. (5:30 p.m., menu prices) (map) (link)

• You don’t need a sweetheart to enjoy oysters and champagne with. The dining package at Silver Cloud includes oysters, a half-bottle of champagne (or wine), salad, dessert, and comfort food entrées. Bring along a few buddies, and celebrate your singleness. (5:00 p.m. – 12 midnight, $27.95) (map) (link)

• Valentine’s Day means a lot more than just chocolates and teddy bears in Chicago. Slip into a booth at Fat Cat for the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Party, and order up the special: mussels in a garlic red sauce with foccacia. Wash it all down with a Bleeding Heart—a cocktail comprised of orange vodka, blood orange puree, and caramel-infused Earl Grey. (4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., menu prices) (map) (link)

• Shrimp cocktail, surf and turf, and Filet Oscar stuffed with Alaskan King Crab are standouts on the menu at Clubhouse in Oak Brook. And the white chocolate mousse is perfect for sharing. (11:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m., menu prices) (map) (link)

• Love stings. The Scorpion cocktail at Motel Bar can help ease some of that pain with its generous quantities of Bacardi Silver and Gran Torres brandy. This concoction comes in two glasses, but you don’t have to share a single drop. (4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., menu prices) (map) (link)

• Forgot to get her a gift? Have no fear. Buy her the Cloud Gate martini at Tavern at The Park. This $200 cocktail—Grey Goose La Poire with a champagne finish—is rimmed with edible silver and garnished with a sterling pendant from Elsa Peretti. (5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., menu prices) (map) (link)

• The best Valentine’s Days are spent staying in rather than going out. The Fairmont Chicago has got a whole batch of suites all set for you and your honey, including breakfast in bed, a Kama Sutra kit, and a copy of Intercourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook. ($349 a night) (map) (link)

• Volo was voted among the Top 10 Best Date Spots in Chicago (AOL Cityguide 2007), making it the perfect place to enjoy a special three-course prix fixe menu. A stellar wine collection is also available, including a prime selection of port. (4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., $35 prix fixe) (map) (link)

Photo credit: debs, trippchicago, Tojosan

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

The menu is extensive, offering dozens of recognizable maki, nigiri, and sashimi options, along with a few seasonal specialties. Start out with appetizers like the Spicy Tuna Rice Crispy—spicy tuna tartare on buttered crispy rice garnished with thinly sliced jalapenos. If you’d like a little bit of everything, ask for the tuna sampler—the chef’s special presentation of various kinds of tuna sashimi.

Entrees include the signature Agami Maki is comprised of lightly battered spicy tuna and cream cheese with avocado, asparagus, wasabi tobiko, and tempura, all wrapped with soybean sheet and drizzled with wasabi and eel sauce. The Ocean Drive arrives in a star formation on the plate—tuna, yellowtail, avocado, green peppers, cilantro, and spicy mayo wrapped with soft cod sheet, drizzled with chili oil and lime juice. And the Green Turtle—fresh water eel, avocado, and tempura topped with shrimp and wasabi—comes shaped like an adorable reptile. Whatever you decide on, don’t touch the soy sauce! The chef here has put a lot of work into making sure that his creations have the perfect flavor and texture without any added condiments.

If you’re not in the mood for sushi, Agami offers filet mignon and grilled teriyaki chicken, but seafood is the feature here. The lobster tail sautéed in garlic-butter, pan-seared shrimp, and grilled salmon all come served with sautéed vegetables and kabocha mashed potatoes.

Complete with excellent, friendly service, this “out-of-place” sushi spot is easily becoming the place to be.

Agami ($$): 4712 N Broadway St; 773-506-1845
Mon – Thurs: 5:00 p.m. – 12 midnight
Fri – Sat: 5:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Sun: 5:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Street parking available
Public trans: Bus # 36, 81, 151 or Red Line (Lawrence)
http://agamisushi.com/

Post from: The Chicago Traveler

• 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: Everclear and Marty Casey and the Lovehammers headline this year’s bash. This party also features a DJ, stand-up comedy, and an open bar. Make your reservations soon though, as prices are likely to rise closer to the date. (8 p.m. – 2 a.m., $99-$135 via Ticketmaster) (map) (link)

• Krem: If you want to celebrate like a VIP, this is the place to be. This swanky spot in Lincoln Park offers premium cocktails and appetizers. There are plenty of package options available, including a personalized tasting menu, table service, and a personal host. A portion of the night’s proceeds will be noted to Shriners’ Hospital of Chicago. (9 p.m. – 2 a.m., $125 general admission) (map) (link)

• Wyndham: Some people can party all night (and morning!) long. After spending the evening sipping on top-shelf cocktails and gabbing over appetizers, you can keep the celebration going at the complimentary after-party. If you ever manage to pull yourself away from the dance floor, take in the breathtaking view of downtown. The guests will be just as appealing to the eyes, as formal attire is required. (8:30 p.m., $125-$150) (map) (link)

• Enclave: This massive two-story space invites partygoers for a premium open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, a buffet, and a champagne toast at midnight. Dance to the beats of DJ Scene, who has played at some of the hottest clubs all over the country. (9 p.m. – 2 a.m., $125) (map) (link)

• Drake Hotel: Chicago-Scene.com is sponsoring the annual soiree, featuring performances by Too White Crew, DJ Strike, and Frankie Hollywood. You can even get yourself a hotel room to relax in afterward, as well as a dinner at the hotel’s steak house. About 2,000 attendees will be enjoying the four ballrooms, premium open bar, hors d’oeurves, and a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. Dress is black tie optional. (9 p.m. – 2 a.m., $175-$215 via tickets.com) (map) (link)

• Lincoln Square Lanes: Here, striking out on New Year’s Eve isn’t a bad thing. “The Chuckle Bowl Spectacular” features 12 open lanes, free pizza, stand-up comedy, short films, and music by DJ “Bubbles Sanchez.” The comedy showcase will include Steve O. Harvey, Mike O’Connell, and Allison Lieber. $3 for domestic beers, $4 for shots. (9 p.m. – 1 a.m., $25) (map) (link)

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) Sebastian Bergmann

Post from: The Chicago Traveler