simplepretty

Chicago: a place that, after last year’s ridiculous weather, was somewhere I was in no hurry to get back to anytime soon. In fact, I swore that I was not. going. back. this year. Funny how family and the holidays changes that: once again, I found myself sitting on a plane headed west on Christmas Eve. As we still don’t know where we’ll end up after our London experience, I decided to make the most of this visit and hit as many of my favorite spots as possible over the holiday weekend — thankfully, the weather this year was so much better for exploring (no snow and no boots! I even declared myself warm-ish one day!) and so without further ado, I present the simplepretty list of must-see Chicago spots. Tuck it away for your next visit to the Windy City, although may I suggest you table your visit until it’s a bit warmer out.

All addresses are Chicago unless otherwise noted.

1.  Mindy’s Hot Chocolate (1747 N. Damen // @mindysegal)

Mindy’s Hot Chocolate (photo at top) has been on my “got to get there” list for so long, it’s become embarrassing (especially when you realize that it opened more than 10 years ago). The inside was charming and cozy (we sat at the bar), my tomato soup and grilled cheese lunch hit the spot on a chilly Saturday, and because my sweet tooth knows no limits — and Mindy’s Hot Chocolate is known for its baked goods — I couldn’t leave without a package of marshmallows and a shortbread/fleur de sel cookie. It’s official: I’m in love.

2.  Jayson Home and Garden (1885 N. Clybourn // @jayson_home)

Wandering through Jayson Home (they seem to have dropped the “and Garden” but I’m ignoring them) is like seeing your favorite interiors blog come to life. The store is filled with envy-inducing (and wallet-emptying) furniture, accessories, and even a flower cooler for an impromptu bouquet. My visits to Jayson Home tend to focus on the artwork. This trip, I was swooning for the mass of framed vintage French fans (originally handed out at the Tour de France) as well as my usual kryptonite, nautical maps.

3.  Goddess and Grocer (1649 N. Damen // @goddessgrocer)

The Goddess and the Grocer (another business that seems to have tweaked its name while I’ve been away, but I’m sticking with my old-school version) has moved into a new location: it’s cleaner, brighter, and definitely easier to navigate. If I had a bottomless stomach or the metabolism of a 17yo boy, I would have ordered up lunch #2. As I do not, we settled for a couple of chocolate chip cookies to savor later.  I also spent a bit of time ogling the freezer case — there were so many appealing choices of Zarlengo’s gelato on display. (G&G also informally serves as a packaging hall of fame exhibit.)

4.  The Doughnut Vault (401 N. Franklin // @doughnutvault)

Oh, Doughnut Vault. Star of so many Instagram feeds, with a line that just won’t quit, and a reputation for selling out quickly. With that knowledge, we arrived just before opening time on Sunday, and queued in very London-like conditions (no talking!) After 18 months of London prices, the $2 buttermilk old-fashioned doughnut seemed like the deal of a lifetime. And yes, it was delicious.

5.  Floriole (1220 W. Webster // @floriole)

After our doughnut run, we were headed back to the ‘burbs, but not before a stop at my favorite Chicago bakery, Floriole. With a pastry case to die for (panna cotta with pomegranate/pots de crème/croissants) I was overwhelmed with options. My strategic plan was to pick up a BAD sandwich (bacon arugula date on cornmeal bread) to enjoy later in the day — you MUST try it. Unfortunately, that plan was thwarted as we arrived too early for lunch service. (Note to all potential BAD samplers: 11 am is the time you’re shooting for.) I settled for a box of canelés and a latte to go.  I’m still a bit sad that I missed out …

In the ‘burbs ….

6.  The Other Door (SE corner of Center + Scranton, Lake Bluff)

After a much-needed Monday Pilates session, my trainer, Jenny, asked if I’d checked out the new Mexican restaurant on the corner. Challenge accepted: chips, guac, and a Casa Noble margarita were the perfect post-workout reward. Once again, my timing was off: next visit I’ll be sure to stop back for the full taco/burrito/salsa experience.

7.  Firkin (515 N. Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville // @firkinlbrtyvle)

Firkin was one of the first restaurants we discovered after moving to the northern suburbs: we’ve been going there since my buddy was two and his dinner consisted of chicken fingers and a glass of milk. (Now he’s a Tall-grass burger enthusiast.) Always decorated in an eclectic/fun fashion, Firkin is my go-to destination: it boasts an extensive beer menu as well as reliable, yummy pub food. A relaxing lunch with both sets of parents marked our last meal in Illinois, with a Chimay White and fish tacos capping off our winter holiday. Until next time, Firkin.

Extra credit:

8.  Amidei Mercatino (235 Southgate, Lake Forest)

If you’re smart enough to postpone your visit until spring, don’t miss Amidei Mercatino. Tucked into an alleyway behind the former Lake Forest branch of Marshall Field’s (now home to J.Crew and Blue Mercury), Amidei is the most charming produce stand I’ve ever visited. Ever.

9.  Olivia’s Market (2014 W. Wabansia)

Can you stand yet another cute grocery? Hopefully yes, because Olivia’s Market is worth a visit. It’s one of those spots that makes me wish I was a local. And then the wind blows …

all photos, layout and type by jane potrykus