Activities
Baseball
The Cubs and White Sox play each other during the meeting. It's very hard to get tickets. They're available on sites such as StubHub, but they're expensive.
Chicago Architecture Foundation
224 S. Michigan Ave.
312-922-3432
[Red Line to Washington]
Chicagoans are rightfully proud of their architectural heritage, and the CAF's various tours are perhaps the best one-stop shopping option for visitors during the warmer months. The boat tour is especially popular. Check the site for details and times. The University of Chicago Press has many delightful books on the subject.
http://www.architecture.org
Millennium Park and the Pritzker Pavilion
Michigan Ave., from Randolph to Adams (Art Institute)
[Red Line to Washington]
Millennium Park is fast becoming one of Chicago's most popular destinations. Anish Kapoor's "Cloud Gate" (aka, "the Bean") is now on par with the Picasso in Daley Plaza as an iconic public sculpture. The result of a unique public/private partnership, the park is built over a former Illinois Central train line. The Frank Gehry–designed Pritzker Pavilion features free concerts throughout the summer.
Poetry Foundation
61 West Superior St.
312-787-7070
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
The Foundation moved into its posh new digs last year. Visit the website for programming, but the building itself is well worth a visit during the hours when their poetry library is open.
http://www.poetryfoundation.org
MUSEUMS
The Art Institute of Chicago
111 South Michigan Avenue
312-443-3600
[Red or Blue Line to Jackson]
The Art Institute is famous for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painting, but it also has strong Asian and Middle Eastern collections as well. The new Renzo Piano–designed Modern Wing has received wide praise, and literally bridges the gap between the AIC and Millennium Park.
http://www.artic.edu
Chicago History Museum
1601 North Clark St.
312-642-4600
Number 22 Bus from Dearborn going north; coming south on Clark St. to return
Its core collection gathers artifacts from Chicago's rich history. The museum mounts special exhibitions throughout the year, and its programming includes lectures and tours of, for instance, Chicago's classic pubs.
http://www.chicagohistory.org
The Field Museum
1400 S Lake Shore Dr
312-922-9410
[Red line to Roosevelt]
World-renowned museum of the natural sciences, that originated in Chicago's 1893 World's Columbian Expo. Open daily.
http://fieldmuseum.org
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago Ave.
312-280-2660
[Red Line to Chicago or cab from the meeting hotel]
Among the nation's largest facilities devoted to contemporary art, the MCA develops and hosts exhibits of the most thought-provoking work created since 1945. The MCA documents contemporary visual culture through painting, sculpture, photography, video and film, and performance.
http://www.mcachicago.org
Newberry Library
60 West Walton Street
312-943-9090
[Red Line to Chicago or cab from the meeting hotel]
This independent research library with a focus on the humanities is privately funded and is free and open to the public. It is notable for its genealogical resources and its rare manuscripts and maps.
http://www.newberry.org
DuSable Museum of African American History
740 East 56th Pl.
773-947-0600
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
The premiere museum of African American history, the DuSable is located directly west of the Museum of Science and Industry, just inside Washington Park. The museum of course has its share of art and artifacts and hosts multiple exhibits, concurrently, but its lecture series is of particular note.
http://www.dusablemuseum.org
National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 W. 19th St.
312-738-1503
Cab from the meeting hotel
The National Museum of Mexican Art is located on Chicago's near South Side in the Pilsen neighborhood. Pilsen's ethnic heritage (once Czech, now Mexican) and diversity exemplify Chicago's cultural richness.
http://www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org
American Indian Center
1630 West Wilson Ave.
773-275-5871
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
American Indians had their own great migration to Chicago as part of Indian Relocation Act of the 1950s. Carried out in concert with a policy of selective termination of tribal status, it was a strategic attempt to break up the reservation system. Chicago was the only one of the five original relocation cities without a large in-state reservation. The Center has a variety of education programs.
http://aic-chicago.org
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
951 Chicago Ave.
Oak Park, IL
708-848-1976
[Green Line to Oak Park or Harlem]
A surprisingly easy trip from the meeting site via the CTA Green Line, the FLW Home and Studiois a wonderful self-contained tour. More ambitious walkers or drivers can check out the exteriors of the many still-standing Wright houses in the Oak Park area or go on a tour of nearby Unity Temple.
http://www.gowright.org
For children (and children at heart)
Lincoln Park Zoo / Notebaert Nature Museum
2200 North Cannon Dr.
312-742-2000
[Cab from the meeting hotel or No. 22 bus (going north from Dearborn St.; catch return bus on Clark St.) or No. 151 Sheridan (going north on Michigan Ave.)]
Free admission; open all year round. This lively zoo and fascinating museum are among the most-visited in the country. The zoo is a great place for an afternoon stroll.
http://www.lpzoo.org
Museum of Science and Industry
57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
773-684-1414
[Metra from Millennium Station to the 55th/56th/57th St. stop (take the 57th St. exit), or cab from the meeting hotel]
This innovative museum has many highlights and includes the Great Chicago Train exhibit, the Forces of Nature weather exhibit, an indoor imaginarium/playground for kids under six, a submarine, a coal mine, and a beautiful fairy castle. It is also a great excuse to explore Hyde Park and the University of Chicago campus.
http://www.msichicago.org
Adler Planetarium
1300 South Lake Shore Dr.
312-922-7827
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
The planets are captivating for all ages, and children will enjoy the Little Explorers kids section with spacecraft simulations, drive-your-own moon rovers, and brain teasers.
http://www.adlerplanetarium.org
Chicago Children's Museum
Navy Pier
700 East Grand Ave.
312-527-1000
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
Located on Navy Pier, the Chicago Children's Museum has hands-on opportunities for kids of all ages to put their imaginations to work with interactive exhibits--features a camp site, a fire station, an archaeological dig site, bugs and butterflies, and a simulated public transit stop.
http://www.chicagoschildrensmuseum.org
Little Beans Café
1809 W. Webster Ave.
773-251-1025
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
If the weather doesn't lend itself to a day outside, visit this Lincoln Park coffee shop and playspace that's popular with the elite toddler set. It's a repurposed industrial space with lots of room for kids to blow off steam and free WiFi so you can work on your panel presentation. Geared to tots five and under.
http://www.littlebeanscafe.com
Fantasy Kingdom
1422 N. Kingsbury St.
312-642-5437
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
Indoor playground for older, more adventure-oriented kids. There's a play castle with an intricate tunnel system and multiple rooms for kids to explore. Children should be over four since the play activity can be fast paced. Conveniently located down the street from Chicago's flagship Whole Foods store with a delicious food court, wine bar, and all the health food you could ever crave.
http://www.fantasykingdom.org
Nightlife
Chicago is renowned for its theater and its jazz and blues music, though it also has a rich tradition with new/experimental music, rock, rap, and electronic music. The Chicago Reader (http://www.chicagoreader.com) is an especially good place to check for what's on during the annual meeting.
Classical
The Chicago Symphony is on break during the meeting, but see the Grant Park website for information about classical music: http://grantparkmusicfestival.com
Jazz
Andy's
11 E. Hubbard St.
312-642-6805
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
Andy's hosts an eclectic mix of local and world-renowned jazz musicians, showcasing everything from traditional swing to bop, fusion, and Afro-pop.
Green Mill
4802 N. Broadway Ave.
773-878-5552
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
A bit of a hike, but the Green Mill wins for ambiance—the space retains much of the adornment from the days when it was a favorite hangout of Al Capone (legend has it he was a silent partner).
http://www.greenmilljazz.com
Jazz Showcase
806 S. Plymouth Ct.
312-360-0234
[Red Line to Jackson, or cab from the meeting hotel]
Located in the South Loop, the Jazz Showcase is a venerable club that hosts both Chicago-based and touring musicians.
http://www.jazzshowcase.com
Blues
Blue Chicago
536 N. Clark St.
312-661-0100
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
The second (and now only) location of this venerable blues club (the original closed in 2010) hosts many Chicago-based artists, especially female acts. The small setting means you're right on top of the stage. Admission is $5 on weekdays and $7 Friday and Saturday.
Buddy Guy's Legends
700 S. Wabash Ave.
312-427-1190
[Red Line to Jackson, or cab from the meeting hotel]
Buddy Guy is the reigning bluesman of Chicago, and his club brings in the top blues acts.
http://www.buddyguy.com
Checkerboard Lounge
5201 S. Harper Ct.
773-684-1472
[Metra train from Millennium Station (corner of Randolph and Michigan) to 53rd St.; take a cab back at night]
Buddy Guy's original venue, the Checkerboard was the destination for blues-inspired musicians such as Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones. Relocated to Hyde Park in 2003.
http://www.checkerjazz.org
Clubs
Butterfly Social Club
722 W. Grand Ave.
312-666-1695
[Blue Line to Grand, or take a cab from the meeting hotel]
An eco-friendly place to go clubbing! An ideal spot for people who don't want their healthy, active lifestyles to take a backseat when it comes to going out for a night of partying. The club is partially solar and wind-powered, and patrons who want to help power the DJ booth can spend time pedaling one of the two bikes inside; your pedaling will be amply rewarded with discounts on organic cocktails or nonalcoholic, eco-friendly tonics and smoothies. Also check Funky Buddha's website (see below). They're sister clubs.
Funky Buddha Lounge
728 W. Grand Ave.
312-666-1695
[Blue Line to Grand, or take a cab from the meeting hotel]
Depending on the DJ, music here can skew all over the map, anywhere from danceable, mid-tempo hip-hop (think A Tribe Called Quest) to the latest in deep house and dancehall, with the occasional old-school slow jam thrown in for any stray couples hot to get their grind on.
http://www.funkybuddha.com
Vision Nightclub
632 N. Dearborn St.
312-266-1944
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
There's clubbing, and then there's mega-clubbing. Housed in a retro-fitted church and illuminated with the latest in ambient lighting, this club is not for the fainthearted. From techno to trance, house to hip-hop, the rotating schedule of world-class DJs has a little something to help everyone get their freak on.
http://www.visionnightclub.com
Theater
We will be meeting during the June hiatus for the Goodman, Steppenwolf, and Chicago Shakespeare theaters—the best known of the hometown ensembles. Broadway touring shows play in the Loop, but the small companies and improv reviews are where one will experience Chicago's signature theater scene.
Lookingglass Theater
Water Tower Water Works Building
821 N. Michigan Ave.
312-337-0665
http://www.lookingglasstheatre.org
Cofounded by David Schwimmer, this award-winning company is known for its extraordinary creativity. During the annual meeting, they're featuring "Eastland: An Original Musical" If you plan to go, get your tickets now: http://lookingglasstheatre.org/content/box_office/eastland
Victory Gardens Theater
2433 N. Lincoln Ave
[Red Line to Fullerton, or cab from the meeting hotel]
http://www.victorygardens.org
Playing during the AAUP meeting is the world premier of Chicago Is Burning, a play that integrates, race, gender, music, and class (sound familiar?). Make ticket reservations ahead of time: http://www.victorygardens.org/onstage/chicago-is-burning.php
The Second City
1616 North Wells St.
312-337-3992
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
This is the epicenter of American improv. Check out its main stage, where future Saturday Night Live cast members and actors may be discovered.
http://www.secondcity.com
The Neo-Futurists
5153 N. Ashland Ave.
773-275-5255
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
Home of the inimitable long-running Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind, the Neo-Futurarium is the incubator for some of Chicago's best avant-garde theater.
http://www.neofuturists.org
Food, Glorious Food!
First Things First: Coffee and Tea
Chicago's own Intelligentsia Coffee Bars
So-o-o perfect for AAUP types, as the name suggests. Gourmet coffee. Exotic brewing methods.
- 53 E. Randolph St. (near Michigan Ave.)
[Blue Line to Washington, or Red Line to Lake, or walk from the meeting hotel] - 53 W. Jackson Blvd. (in the historic Monadnock Building)
[Blue or Red Line to Jackson]
Caribou Coffee
- 200 N. LaSalle St.
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
Starbucks
The three nearest in walking distance to the meeting hotel are:
- 470 Merchandise Mart, in the Food Court
- 414 N. Orleans St.
- 430 N. Clark St.
Dining Favorites from the Natives
Atwood Cafe ($$$)
1 W. Washington St., in the restored Reliance Building (designed by Daniel J. Burnham);
312-368-1900
[Red Line to Lake, Blue Line to Washington, or walk from the meeting hotel]
A lovely upscale American restaurant in the landmark Burnham Hotel at the corner of State and Washington in the heart of the Loop area. Great food, locally sourced, and the chefs are wonderful about taking seriously anyone with dietary preferences or restrictions–gluten free, lactose free, vegetarian, etc. Super wine list and cocktails.
http://www.atwoodcafe.com
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba ($$)
2024 N. Halsted St.
773-935-5000
[Red Line to Clybourn and walk, or cab from the meeting hotel;
Brown or Purple Line to Armitage and a shorter walk]
Tapas, paella, sangria, Spanish wines, olives. Yum! Part of Richard Melman's Lettuce Entertain You restaurant empire and a true gem. Offers gluten-free and vegetarian options.
http://www.cafebabareeba.com
Bin 36 ($$)
339 N. Dearborn St.
312-755-9463
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Excellent food and a sophisticated atmosphere. Has a super wine bar and a great selection of new world wines. It's a high-end market, it's a wine or a cheese bar, it's a restaurant. Located in Bertrand Goldberg's Marina City.
http://www.bin36.com
Boka ($$$)
1729 N. Halsted St.
312-337-6070
[Red Line to North and Clybourn, Brown Line to Armitage, or cab from the meeting hotel]
Truly one of Chicago's finest. This elegant restaurant earned a Michelin star in 2011 and 2012. Gael Green of the New Yorker called Chef Giuseppe Tentori's food "marvelous."
http://www.bokachicago.com
Le Colonial ($$$)
937 N. Rush St.
312-255-0088
[Red Line to Chicago, or cab or walk from the meeting hotel]
Fresh, flavorful and unique fare. Le Colonial captures the beauty and romance of Southeast Asia before the infamous war. A French/Vietnamese gem. Offers a gluten-free menu in addition to the standard fare. Nice wine list. There's an elegant bar on the second floor.
http://www.lecolonialchicago.com
Devon Seafood Grill ($$$)
39 E. Chicago Ave.
312-440-8660
[Red Line to Chicago, or walk from the meeting hotel]
Upscale, simply prepared premium seafood and steaks. Sophisticated cocktails. Check out the after-work specials.
http://www.devonseafood.com
The Gage ($$$)
24 S. Michigan Ave.
312-372-4243
[Blue Line to Monroe or Red Line to Adams]
An urban gastropub. Upscale comfort food. Boutique beers, wine, and whiskeys. Across from Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago.
http://www.thegagechicago.com
Petterino's ($$)
150 N. Dearborn St.
312-422-0150
[Blue Line to Washington or Red Line to Lake, or walk from the meeting hotel]
Part of Chicago restaurant maven Rich Melman's famous Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, Petterino's is an Italian eatery in the style of NYC's Sardi's. It's a favorite of theatergoers and opera fans.
http://www.petterinos.com/menu/
Pierrot Gourmet ($$)
108 E. Superior St., off the lobby of the Peninsula Hotel
312-337-2888
[Red Line to Chicago, or walk from the meeting hotel]
A friendly and charming French-style cafe open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fresh salads, tartines, pastries, coffee, tea, and excellent wines. Indoor dining and, when the weather permits, outdoor seating.
http://www.peninsula.com/Chicago/en/Dining/Pierrot_Gourmet/default.aspx
Quartino ($$)
626 N. State St.
312-698-5000
[Red Line to Chicago]
A lively after-work and dinner spot with excellent Italian small plates. The house wine is surprisingly good and served by the quarter, half, and full liter, and the thin crust pizza is very worthwhile--particularly the rucolina and the vegetariana. Consider sitting in the bar area.
http://www.quartinochicago.com
Rhapsody ($$$)
65 East Adams St.
312-294-3000
[Green, Brown, Purple, or Orange Line to Adams/Wabash; Red Line to Adams; or Blue Line to Monroe, or cab from the meeting hotel]
Near the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Symphony Center, this is a lovely contemporary American restaurant with a Italian accent and an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients. Great cocktails and a solid wine list.
http://www.rhapsodychicago.com
Russian Tea Time ($$$)
77 E. Adams St.
312-360-0000
[Blue Line to Monroe or Red Line to Adams, or cab from the meeting hotel]
A Slavic/Jewish/Old World Russian restaurant with hearty meals for carnivores and vegetarians alike. Indulge your nostalgia for the food of the Czars, the old Soviet Union, or your grandma! Near Symphony Hall and the Art Institute of Chicago.
http://www.russianteatime.com/index2.htm
La Sardine ($$$)
111 N. Carpenter St.
312-421-2800
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
This charming French restaurant sits across the street from Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Studios. Lovely wine list, cocktails, and classic French bistro food.
http://lasardine.com
Shaw's Crab House ($$$)
1 E. Hubbard St.
312-527-2722
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
A Chicago favorite for seafood. Live music at the oyster bar. Next to Andy's for jazz.
http://www.shawscrabhouse.com
CHARLIE TROTTER
Charlie Trotter's ($$$$)
816 West Armitage Ave.
773-248-6228
[Brown Line to Armitage, or cab from the meeting hotel]
Charlie Trotter's kitchen rivals Thomas Keller's as one of the most important training grounds for today's generation of chefs. After a long run as one of the top restaurateurs in the United States, Trotter is calling it quits in August 2012. Expensive, but it's your last chance to taste the legend—if you can get a reservation.
http://www.charlietrotters.com
RICK BAYLESS
- XOCO ($)
449 N. Clark St.
312-334-3688
Very casual, no reservations - Frontera Grill ($$$)
445 N. Clark St.
312-661-1434
Sit down, limited reservations, otherwise first come, first served - Topolabampo ($$$$)
445 N. Clark St.
312-661-1434
Shares a kitchen with the Frontera Grill; reserve far in advance
All of the above are within walking distance of the meeting hotel. Between television, merchandising, and the hype surrounding the Obamas naming Topolabampo as their favorite restaurant, Bayless is everywhere these days. This hasn't affected his exploration of Mexican cuisine. From the casual XOCO to the more upscale Topolabampo, his city block of restaurants will cater to any taste or budget.
http://www.rickbayless.com
PAUL KAHAN
- Blackbird ($$$)
619 W. Randolph St.
312-715-0708
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
http://blackbirdrestaurant.com
- avec ($$)
615 W. Randolph St.
312-377-2002
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
http://avecrestaurant.com
- Publican ($$$)
837 W. Fulton Market
312-733-9555
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
http://thepublicanrestaurant.com
Kahan was among the first to settle in Chicago's now thriving West Loop area. Blackbird is a top choice for New American cuisine—spare and elegant. Its neighbor, avec, is a tapas-style wine bar (no reservations). Publican boasts fresh seafood, heirloom pork, and an unsurpassed selection of craft beers.
CARRIE NAHABEBIAN
Naha ($$$$)
500 N. Clark St.
312-321-6242
[Cab or walk from the meeting hotel]
Owner/chef and Chicago native Carrie Nahabebian draws on both her Armenian roots and her sojourn on the California cooking scene to create a top-notch Mediterranean-inflected restaurant. If you want to sample some of Naha's great food and fantastic wine list, the bar menu is a less-expensive option.
http://www.naha-chicago.com
STEPHANIE IZARD
Girl & the Goat ($$$$)
809 W. Randolph St.
312-492-6262
[Green Line to Clinton or cab from the meeting hotel]
Izard has backed up her Top Chef notoriety with her acclaimed locavore hotspot. This is less a romantic dinner and more a foodie bacchanal. Reservations are hard to come by (try to get them now yesterday if you're serious).
http://www.girlandthegoat.com
Steakhouses
This is the eastern border of the Midwest!
David Burke's Primehouse ($$$$)
616 North Rush Street
312-660-6000
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
This pricey steakhouse plays masculinity to the hilt—right down to the Naugahyde-covered tables. The popovers have a loyal following and the desserts are theatrically over the top. Make sure to check out the salt-lined room where your meat was aged.
http://www.davidburke.com
Fogo de Chao ($$$)
661 N. LaSalle Blvd.
312-932-9330
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
A Brazilian steakhouse that uses a traditional ground fire to grill meats. Fogo de Chao also boasts an enormous and impressive salad bar.
http://www.fogodechao.com/index.php?id=1
Gene and Georgetti's ($$$)
500 N. Franklin Street
312-527-3718
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
Do you support independent bookstores? Then how about an independent steakhouse? Since 1941, one of Chicago's best steakhouses. Not a chain!
http://www.geneandgeorgetti.com
Gibson's Steakhouse ($$$$)
1028 N. Rush Street
312-266-8999
[Red Line to Clark/Division, or cab from the meeting hotel]
This is perhaps the most legendary of Chicago's legendary steakhouses, and it has plenty of autographed celebrity photos to prove it. Gibson's shares a kitchen with Hugo's Frog Bar, a seafood restaurant.
http://www.gibsonssteakhouse.com
Smith & Wollensky ($$$$)
318 North State Street
312-670-9900
[Blue Line to Washington or Red Line to Lake; or walk from the meeting hotel]
The closest option to the meeting hotel for steaks.
http://www.smithandwollensky.com
Ruth's Chris Steakhouse ($$$$)
431 N. Dearborn Street
312-321-2725
[Cab or walk from the meeting hotel]
Come here for a reliably top-notch steakhouse experience. All of the dishes are on the heavy side, but the high-quality cuts of meat keep diners coming back.
http://www.ruthschris.com
The Berghoff ($$)
17 W. Adams Street
312-427-3170
[Blue Line to Monroe or Red Line to Adams]
The oldest restaurant in Chicago! Traditional German-American hearty meals. Wiener schnitzel, pot roast, calf's liver, sauerbraten, creamed spinach, rye bread, beer, brats. Every kid who's grown up in Chicago has probably gone here after shopping in the Loop with the parents. Tradition on stilts!
http://www.theberghoff.com
Heaven on Seven ($$)
- 111 N. Wabash Avenue, 7th Floor
312-263-6443
[Green or Brown Line to Randolph]
The original location that only serves breakfast and lunch - 600 N. Michigan Avenue, 2nd floor (above the Eddie Bauer store)
312-280-7774
[Walk or cab from the meeting hotel]
The best Cajun cooking outside Louisiana. Heaven started as a modest little lunchroom in a Loop office building but quickly gained a following of local fans who loved everything from the hot sauce to the hurricanes.
http://www.heavenonseven.com
Lou Mitchell's ($)
565 W Jackson Blvd
312-939-3111
[Blue Line to Jackson]
This West Loop restaurant is a favorite whistle stop for campaigners. The egg dishes and pancakes are pretty good.
http://www.loumitchellsrestaurant.com
Manny's Cafeteria and Delicatessen ($)
1141 S. Jefferson Ave.
312-939-2855
[Red Line to Roosevelt, or cab from the meeting hotel]
Manny's is a well-preserved old-school deli that served Chicago's now-defunct garment district. The corned beef and pastrami are top of the line; the potato pancakes are to die for. Real Chicagoans eat here!
http://www.mannysdeli.com
Valois "See Your Food" Cafeteria ($)
1518 E. 53rd St.
773-667-0647
[Metra train from Millennium Station (corner of Randolph and Michigan) to 53rd St.]
A favorite of Hyde Parkers, University of Chicago types, AND President Obama! (Google Obama and Valois!) Down home cooking. No soft lighting. No atmospheric music. Amazing breakfasts. Hearty lunches and dinners.
http://www.valoisrestaurant.com
Uno Chicago Grill ($)
29 East Ohio St.
312-321-1000
[Red Line to Chicago, or walk from the meeting hotel]
This is where thick-crust pizza was born!
http://www.unos.com
Edwardo's Pizza ($)
1212 N. Dearborn St.
312-337-4490
[Red Line to Clark/Division]
A local favorite for deep-dish and stuffed pizza. Bring a big appetite.
http://www.edwardos.com
Giordano's Pizza ($)
730 N. Rush St.
312-951-0747
[Red Line to Chicago, or walk from the meeting hotel]
The first to make stuffed pizza! Another local favorite.
http://www.giordanos.com
Hot Doug's ($)
3324 N. California Ave.
773-279-9550
[Cab from the meeting hotel]
Hot Doug's may not be near public transportation, but it is totally worth the cab ride to experience the best hot dogs that our city has to offer. This self-professed "Encased Meat Emporium" serves up a rotating variety of exotic sausages as well as the classic Chicago dog. Get there early on Fridays and Saturdays, when the line can stretch around the block. But the reward when you get inside is duck fat fries!
http://www.hotdougs.com
Mr. Beef ($)
666 N Orleans St. (and other locations around the city)
312-337-8500
[Brown Line to Chicago]
Mr. Beef takes the form of the hot dog/beef/taco stand that you'll find in most Chicago neighborhoods. Divey and unadorned, it caters to all, and "all" are usually inebriated for the Saturday late shift.
Portillo's Hot Dogs ($)
100 West Ontario St.
312-587-8910
[Red Line to Grand]
The Chicago hot dog: beef frank, steamed poppy seed bun, dragged through the garden (tomato, pickle spear, neon relish, celery salt), mustard, no ketchup. Burgers as well.
http://www.portillos.com
Vegetarian/Vegan
Despite our reputation as the hog butcher to the world, Chicago is a city friendly to vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free diners. Most restaurants will have more than one option, but here are a few that specialize.
Chicago Diner ($$)
3411 N. Halsted St.
773-935-6696
[Red Line to Addison or Purple and Brown Lines to Belmont]
Chicago Diner, not surprisingly, recreates diner classics without using meat. This is more a deliberate dinner haunt than a drunken last resort.
http://www.veggiediner.com
Green Zebra ($$$)
1460 West Chicago Ave.
312-243-7100
[Blue Line to Chicago]
A high-concept space in the West Town neighborhood, the Green Zebra showcases original dishes and is also known for its cocktails.
http://www.greenzebrachicago.com
The Handlebar ($)
2311 West North Ave.
773-384-9546
[Blue Line to Damen]
A bicycle/punk-themed restaurant in Wicker Park, The Handlebar is a pescatarian restaurant, but the menu is overwhelmingly vegetarian and vegan.
http://www.handlebarchicago.com
Karyn's Cooked ($$)
738 N Wells St.
312-587-1050
[Red Line to Chicago]
A neighborhood vegan spot that's either a healthy walk or a one-stop train ride from the conference. Great flautas, and plenty of vegan desserts--the bread pudding comes to mind.
http://www.karynraw.com/Cooked/
Mana Food Bar ($$)
1742 W. Division St.
773-342-1742
[Blue Line to Division]
A farm-to-table vegetarian restaurant that features small plates. Their brown rice sliders with homemade pickles are beloved by vegetarians and carnivores alike.
http://www.manafoodbar.com
Munch ($)
104 N. Marion St., Oak Park, IL
708-848-4226
[Green Line to Harlem]
Wonderful little neighborhood restaurant (in the Frank Lloyd Wright area of Oak Park) that caters to vegetarians, vegans, and those who choose to be gluten free. Black bean burgers, Philly steak-less sandwiches. Very tasty. Healthy. No cruelty to animals here!
http://www.munchrestaurant.net
Quick and (Fairly) Close Places
East Bank Club ($$$$)
500 N Kingsbury St.
312-527-5800
[Brown Line to Merchandise Mart, or walk from the meeting hotel]
East Bank Club is an expensive health club around the corner on Kingsbury Street and both its restaurant and food shop are on the first floor are open to the public. You can find a quick healthy lunch here and maybe run into some local celebrities. Oprah used to work out here.
http://eastbankclub.com/index.php/dining/
French Market at Ogilvie Transportation Center ($)
131 N. Clinton Ave.
312-575-0306
[Green line to Clinton]
Located adjacent to Chicago's commuter rail station, which makes it busy during the rush hour. Fresh and prepared food abound.
http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com
Hannah's Bretzel on Washington ($)
180 W. Washington St.
312-621-1111
[Blue Line to Washington, or walk from the meeting hotel]
There are sandwiches. And there are "Über sandwiches." Delicious ingredients on Hannah's trademark pretzel buns. Chocolate lovers can get their fix from the assortment of bars available at the checkout line.
http://www.hannahsbretzel.com
Meli's Cafe ($)
540 N Wells St.
312-527-1850
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
This excellent breakfast spot is a short walk from the conference. It has a full juice, smoothie, and coffee bar.
http://www.melicafe.com
Merchandise Mart ($ to $$$)
222 Merchandise Plaza
800-677-6278
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
There is a food court within the Merchandise Mart proper. There are fast-food options and Nick's Fishmarket, an upscale seafood restaurant that is open for lunch.
http://www.mmart.com/visit/amenities/
Native Foods Cafe ($)
218 South Clark St.
312-332-6332
[Blue line to Jackson; Brown line to Quincy]
The closest vegetarian/vegan option, Native Foods is a casual lunch spot.
http://www.nativefoods.com
Pastoral ($)
53 East Lake St.
312-658-1250
[Brown Line, Green Line, Orange Line, Purple Line to Randolph; or Red Line to Lake]
A branch of the shop in the French Market. Gourmet sandwiches, plus hand-selected cheeses, breads, and wines, make this a perfect grab-and-go lunch spot.
http://www.pastoralartisan.com
Specialty's (sic) Deli ($)
877-502-2837
191 N Wacker Dr.
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
Not quite Hannah's or Pastoral, but a good nearby option for high-quality salads and sandwiches.
http://www.specialtys.com
Fado Irish Pub ($)
100 W. Grand Ave.
312-836-0066
[Red Line to Grand]
In addition to drinks, Fado offers a full menu of salads, sandwiches, and hearty Irish-inspired entrees like homemade shepherd's pie, corned beef and cabbage, and chicken pot pie. Fado even has a constant hangover cure with its all-day Irish breakfast of two eggs, sausage, bacon, blackandwhite pudding, baked beans, tomatoes, and brown bread. Cheap but hearty eats.
Gilt Bar ($$$)
230 West Kinzie St.
312-464-9544
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
Chicago is one of the centers for the neo-speakeasy or high-end cocktail movement. Gilt is across the street and is a place for all of you Scotts and Zeldas to enjoy a highball.
http://www.giltbarchicago.com
The Roof on the Wit Hotel ($$$)
201 North State St.
312-755-9463
[Red Line to Lake]
The Wit is a new-school boutique hotel. The rooftop bar is the real star during the summer months; but be warned that it gets crowded quickly.
http://www.roofonthewit.com
Sable (Palomar Hotel) ($$$)
505 North State St.
312-755-9704
[Walk from meeting hotel]
Different kitchen and bar hours, but basically, the bar is open from 11am–1am, and the kitchen for meal hours. This is part of the rebirth of the hotel bar. If you've ever deployed the word "mixologist," then this is the bar for you. Sable is a self-styled "gastro-lounge," so you can stay for small dishes.
http://www.sablechicago.com
Hubbard Inn ($$$)
110 W Hubbard St.
312-222-1331
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
Great decor, drinks, and small plates, and AAUP attendees will appreciate the Hemingway theme. This bar gets to be a bit of a scene as the evening hours roll by.
http://www.hubbardinn.com
Boss Bar ($$)
420 N Clark St.
312-527-1203
[Walk from the meeting hotel]
A nearby dive for those who appreciate a truly casual bar that pays homage to our former mayor Richard Daley, Sr.
For the Slightly More Adventurous
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, and we have a wealth of fine neighborhood eateries. The few favorites listed here are easy to get to on public transportation or by cab.
Logan Square neighborhood:
Lula's Cafe ($$)
2537 North Kedzie Blvd.
773-489-9554
[Blue Line to Logan Square]
Just good plain food.
http://www.lulacafe.com
Longman & Eagle ($$)
2657 N Kedzie Ave.
773-276-7110
[Blue Line to Logan Square]
It's difficult to find a less pretentious restaurant with a true Michelin star. Their wine and spirit selection is exceptional!
http://www.longmanandeagle.com
Oak Park:
Home of Hemingway, Wright, Burroughs, and Kroc
Aripo's Arepa House ($)
118 N. Marion St.,
708-386-1313
[Green Line to Harlem]
A find! A Venezuelan eatery that serves delicious arepas (massa cake "sandwiches"), empanadas, and other rare treats, including refreshing fruit drinks. Not fancy, but so tasty!
http://www.aripos.com
Sen Sushi Bar ($$)
845 S. Oak Park Ave.
708-848-4400
[Blue Line to Oak Park]
A winner of this year's Michelin good value award. Delicious sushi—traditional, contemporary, vegetarian.
http://www.sensushibar.com
Pilsen neighborhood:
Nightwood ($$$)
2119 South Halsted St.
312-526-3385
[Orange Line to Halsted, or cab from the meeting hotel]
Fantastic farm-to-table cuisine with equally fantastic cocktails.
http://nightwoodrestaurant.com
Wicker Park/Bucktown:
Mindy's Hot Chocolate ($$)
1747 N Damen Ave.
773-489-1747
[Blue Line to Damen]
Despite its name, this restaurant serves more than sweet beverages and desserts (though those are indeed delicious). Dinner features a small rotating menu of locally grown and seasonally inspired creations.
http://hotchocolatechicago.com
The Bristol ($$$)
2152 N Damen Ave.
773-862-5555
[Blue Line to Damen]
The ultimate combination (with a charming Mediterranean accent) of farm-to-table meets snout-to-tail. This is some of what Chicago is doing best right now.
http://thebristolchicago.com
The Bedford ($$)
1612 W Division St.
773-235-8800
[Blue Line to Division]
An old bank turned into a beautiful but approachable lounge and restaurant. Before or after dinner you can enjoy cocktails in the bank vault surrounded by old safety deposit boxes. Dinner itself is seasonal comfort food—think mussels, burgers, and the creamiest of deviled eggs.
http://www.bedfordchicago.com
Transportation and Getting Around
We've included directions, where appropriate, for using CTA trains (Blue Line, Red Line, etc.) to get around the meeting area as well as a few other neighborhoods that are farther afield. The guide tells you how to get to the nearest train station; there is usually a short walk as well. It's a good idea to invest in a street map. CTA rides cost $2.25 and 25 cents for a transfer with a fare card. There are machines for buying fare cards in all train stations; fare cards can be used on the CTA trains and buses. Buses accept both fare cards (or transfers) and cash (exact change). See http://www.transitchicago.com/fares// for details. You can type in a destination and the CTA route planner will tell you how to get there.
CTA train stations near the meeting hotel:
Brown, Purple Line, 350 N. Wells Street (elevated)
Green Line, Orange Line at the intersection of N. Clark and Lake Streets (elevated)
Blue Line, at the intersection of S. Wells and Lake Streets (underground)
Red Line, at the intersection of N. State Street and Grand Avenue (underground)
Metra is the suburban electric train. Metra trains to Hyde Park (the University of Chicago neighborhood) leave from Millennium Station at the corner of Randolph Street and Michigan Avenue. There are three train stops in Hyde Park: 51st St/53rd St; 55th/56th/57th St; and 59th St. The latter two stops are the closest to the University of Chicago campus.
Cabs are also a very good way to get around (especially at night, and especially if you are traveling alone), but they're a bit more expensive than NYC taxis, for example.
Walking is one of the best ways to experience Chicago, so make some time for it. Be sure to look up; some of the most spectacular architecture in the world lives here. Stroll along Michigan Avenue or the shore of Lake Michigan at Oak Street Beach. Be sure to stop by Millennium Park. And, be sure to eat a Chicago-style hot dog. And some Chicago-style pizza. And . . . and . . . have a great time!
AAUP 2012 Conference Hotel in relation to CTA:
Welcome to a wonderful, unparalleled, quintessential American city!
"Da Great City of Chicago," the first Mayor Daley called it. "Urbs in Horto," the "City in a Garden." We also know it as the Windy City, the Second City, the Hog Butcher to the World, the Grey City, and on and on. Chicago has, throughout its history, risen and fallen time and again since the days of the Great Chicago Fire. We continue to reinvent ourselves commercially, culturally, architecturally, and demographically.
We've designed this guide to give you a taste of our great city of Chicago. We've included favorite restaurants, bars, clubs, theaters, museums, destinations, and activities. Most are centered around the River North, Loop, and upper Michigan Avenue areas that are within walking distance of our meeting hotel, the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza. If this guide doesn't tell you what you want to know, be sure to ask one of the locals—anyone from the University of Chicago Press, Northwestern University Press, or Northern Illinois University Press.
Browse online using the menu below or to the right or download the PDF version
Transportation
Food and Drink
Nightlife
Activities
This guide was compiled by your local host presses; design of the PDF and on-site printed version provided by Northwestern University Press.
More Articles...
Page 2 of 9
