Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

Latest blog posts

Dining

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Chicago with takeout specials, margarita kits & more

Cinco de Mayo in Chicago might look a little different this year, but there’s no reason we can’t still celebrate at home. The city’s restaurants…

Published on April 30, 2020 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining

Chicago chefs share favorite recipes & cocktails to make at home

Chicago’s culinary scene is known for being as diverse as the city itself. On any given night, you can dine at a New Orleans-style tavern,…

Published on April 27, 2020 by Choose Chicago

Dining

Where to get Easter & Passover meals to go in Chicago

This year, we could all use a little time to relax, be with family (whether in person or virtual), and enjoy a delicious meal. And…

Published on April 7, 2020 by Kelsey O'Connor

Blog, Dining

The City Winery domes are back on the Chicago Riverwalk

The City of Chicago and the State of Illinois have placed restrictions on many events and businesses to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We strongly…

Published on March 9, 2020 by Alma Bahman

Blog, Dining, Family, Hotels, Sponsored, Tours & attractions

Explore Chicago’s North Shore

Chicago’s North Shore is the perfect base for a trip to Chicago. Bordering the city along the shores of Lake Michigan, the North Shore is…

Blog, Dining, Museums, Shopping and fashion

24 hours in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood

As its name suggests, Chicago’s Gold Coast has an illustrious history. In the late 1800s, Potter Palmer, one of Chicago’s wealthiest businessmen, built his mansion…

Published on January 27, 2020 by Alma Bahman

Dining, Holidays

30+ romantic spots for Valentine’s Day dinner in Chicago

The biggest date night of the year is coming, and anybody who’s trying to leave the house that night should do their homework. We’ve picked…

Published on January 13, 2020 by Kelsey O'Connor

Blog, Dining

10 neighborhood favorites to try during Chicago Restaurant Week

The holidays may be over but Chicago still has plenty to celebrate. This month marks the beginning of Chicago Restaurant Week, the most underrated holiday…

Published on January 9, 2020 by Alma Bahman

Dining, Special events

9 award-winning spots not to miss during Chicago Restaurant Week

Want to get a taste of Chicago’s top dining experiences without breaking the bank? Chicago Restaurant Week is the perfect excuse to start checking off…

Published on December 18, 2019 by Zoe Krey

Dining, Special events

Where to eat New Year’s Eve dinner in Chicago

Ring in the New Year in true Chicago style — with an unforgettable meal. The city’s acclaimed culinary scene pulls out all the stops for…

Published on December 13, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining, Special events

9 new restaurants to try during Chicago Restaurant Week

In Chicago, there’s no better time to experience the city’s acclaimed dining scene than Chicago Restaurant Week. This year’s edition of the annual foodie fest…

Published on December 11, 2019 by Margaret Poe

The Peninsula Chicago Lobby at Christmas

Dining

Chicago restaurants for a festive holiday dinner

If you’re not planning to stay home for the holidays, this is the perfect time to experience Chicago’s award-winning dining scene. Our restaurants go all…

Published on December 2, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining

Hot chocolate spots to warm up a Chicago winter

The best way to stay warm during a Chicago winter? Lots of hot chocolate. It’s the perfect pit stop during a day of exploring the…

Published on November 10, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining, Festivals, Free & cheap, Special events

What to eat, drink, and do at Christkindlmarket Chicago

Christkindlmarket has been a holiday tradition in Chicago since 1996. Modeled after the 16th-century holiday markets in Germany, the annual Christmas bazaar in Daley Plaza…

Published on November 1, 2019 by Alma Bahman

Dining, Special events

Where to eat Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago

Thanksgiving is supposed to be about food and family. But between all the cooking and cleaning, the family part tends to fall by the wayside.…

Published on October 23, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining

Chicago’s newest Michelin Guide restaurants

Every year, Michelin releases their famed city guides that rate the best restaurants in top dining destinations around the world. And this year’s guide only…

Published on September 27, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining

Chicago’s dog-friendly bars & restaurants

Traveling with your pup means scouting out the best dog-friendly bars and restaurants wherever you go. And in Chicago, there’s no shortage of spots to…

Published on September 12, 2019 by Allana Mortell