Chicago Like a Local blog

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

Gaza, Genocide, & The Politics of Food

A conversation with Laila Elhaddad, author of The Gaza Kitchen and Chef Reem Assil of Reem’s California Palestinian brunch by Mai Kakish of Almond &…

PISCO DISCO – Rooftop Party at Tanta, in celebration of the James Beard Awards Week

In celebration of the James Beard Foundation Awards, Tanta Cocina Peruana in Chicago’s River North neighborhood is celebrating with the launch of PISCO DISCO, rooftop…

Coldwater Kitchen Screening & Talk Back: The Role of Food Media in Social Impact Storytelling

“Coldwater Kitchen” is a timely film that subtly addresses some of the most pressing questions around the carceral system – a system that impacts 1…

Up South

Justice of the Pies and Chef Maya-Camille Broussard host Chef Camari Mick (Raf, Musket Room) for its UP SOUTH pop up with dishes that explore…

Sip & Guzzle @ Hawksmoor Chicago

Hawksmoor, twice named Best International Restaurant Bar by the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Wine and…

HOULME tavern-style pizza party at MIDDLE BROW

Jay from HOULME is bringing his Orcas Island magic to the middle west. He’s teaming up with Pete & Carolyn and their Middle Brow Company…

GUSTO BAKERY at MIDDLE BROW

Join GUSTO BREAD as they celebrate their nomination with a pizza party featuring a MOLE pizza. Invite: General Public, Nominee RSVP: RSVP by June 15…

Dan Richer’s Razza at Middle Brow

Dan Richer, fearless leader of the American pizza mecca Razza in Jersey City and nominee for Best Chef Mid-Atlantic, is teaming up with Chicago pizza…

Bar Sótano’s Mariscos Patio Party featuring JBFA nominated Chef Zachary Walters of Sedalia’s in Oklahoma City, benefitting No Kid Hungry

Bar Sótano and Chef Rick Bayless are excited to welcome JBFA nominated Chef Zachary Walters of Sedalia’s in Oklahoma City. The Maricos Patio Party is…