July Summer Specials

Some experiences in Chicago are well known and well loved— like watching fireworks at Navy Pier or devouring deep-dish pizza at Gino’s. But others are hidden, like secret treasures. After chatting with some locals, we discovered some new gems on the map.

Old School Treasure

According to Chicago local Chris B., Gullivers on Howard (on the edge of Roger’s Park) is a total throwback—whether eating on their massive outdoor patio or amongst the low-hanging chandelier collection inside. He recommends the pizza or the stuffed Florentine burger. Continue your food frenzy at the original “Superdawg” on Milwaukee and Devon. “Be sure to get the onion chips and a shake that’ll make your tongue bleed trying to suck it through the straw!” says Baskin, “it’s a perfect summer night of eat-in-your car fun!”

Gullivers is located 2727 W Howard St. Chicago, IL 60645. (773) 338-2166.
Superdawg is located at 6363 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago 60646.

A Sweet Treasure

Dairy Queen may not be a secret, but the Southport Dairy Queen is quite a find. It’s open late night and it’s decked out rock-and-roll 50s style. Sign up for the Blizzard Fan Club and get a 2-for-1 Blizzard coupon!

Diary Queen is located at 811 N. Southport Ave., Chicago Tel: (773) 857-7004.

Look Good for Your Pirate

At Blo, women can get their hair blown out for only 25 bucks! These 30-minute appointments are perfect for the busy lady who wants to look glam but doesn’t have a lot of time. You can even squeeze in a 15-minute flash facial during your lunch hour.

Un Tesoro

Amy and Jon M. of Chicago fear they won’t get in to their favorite secret restaurant after we spill the beans. According to Jon, “Buona Terra is RIDICULOUS! They have the most amazing olive oil/garlic/jalapeño dipping sauce; the Rigatoni ala Buona Terra is fantastic; and their veal medallions with pine nuts, mushrooms and white wine sauce is what I dream about at work.” He also notes the prices are very reasonable, and they have an excellent selection of wine for as little as $18 a bottle... and for that price, ya might as well order two! It’s a true family-owned ristorante.

A Small Cup of Treasure-Pleasure

According to their founders, Intelligentsia Coffee was founded on a simple premise “buy, roast, and serve the finest coffees available.” They seek environmentally and socially responsible growers and importers, so you can feel really good about yourself and your cup of Joe. It all started in Chicago on Broadway, and now they’ve expanded their stores throughout the US. Come for the comfy atmosphere and excellent drinks.

Take A Treasure Hunt

Chicago Food Planet provides an authentic and unique culinary experience. You will explore “mom and pop” food shops, offbeat venues, and some cultural treats in the city—all while getting to taste delicious goodies. It’s an unconventional way to tour the city and learn some local secrets.

An Antique

Merz Apothecary was “green” before it was trendy. For 130 years, they’ve carried the best bath, body, and natural health products in the city. In 1875, Peter Merz focused on herbal medicines and traditional formulas—and very little has changed. The store even looks like a traditional European Apothecary. It’s a Chicago landmark whose vision of health and wellness has never faded. SmallFlower.com MerzApothecary.com

A Very Hidden Treasure

You might be an elementary teacher, a biker, an artist, a drummer, or a dreamer. You might prefer rock, punk, alt-country, indie-rock, or a combination of them all. At the Hideout, it doesn’t matter who you are or what you do or what you look like. Every night people get together and dance and sing like it’s the best show of year. It’s the sort of place where anything might happen on stage. Perhaps their website says it best… “the Hideout is music, art, performance, plays, poetry, rock and rebellion.”HideoutChicago.com