The Chicago Traveler

Tre Kronor (“Three Crowns”) is a neighborhood Scandinavian place that has been around for 15 years, and the well-worn hardwood floors are testament to all the business the cozy restaurant has received over that time. The crowd usually consists of families, locals from the neighboring North Park, and Scandinavian foodies. On weekends, the two-story restaurant has a line out the door, the handwritten menu attracting hungry patrons who show up before the door even opens.
There’s not much here that you wouldn’t find at similar restaurants, but it’s all in the preparation. You’d swear that your long-lost Swedish grandmother was back …read more

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Ah, family. There is a saying that goes… “Families are like fudge – mostly sweet with a few nuts.” We here at the Travel & Culture Channel are celebrating our nutty families this month. And while my own family may seem especially eccentric at times, I still love them nonetheless.
For several years, my paternal family would gather for breakfast every Sunday at Orbit Restaurant and Lounge (2954 N Milwaukee Ave). I think my grandparents liked it mostly because it served a primarily Polish cuisine… and because they had “clean bathrooms.” I remember this is where my affinity for eating lemons …read more

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The 24th Annual Chicago Blues Festival starts today and runs through Sunday the 10th. It is the world’s largest FREE outdoor blues event. There are a remarkable number of performances by over 70 local and national artists. Did I mention “free”?

One of my favorite summer events takes place this weekend: the 23rd Annual Printers Row Book Fair. The largest FREE literary event in the Midwest, this fair allows tens of thousands of people to meet authors; browse through new, old, and antique books from nearly 200 booksellers; and even attend chef demonstrations. Although you will find tents from familiar names …read more

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