Restaurants
We Love Chicago’s Food Scene.
I’m hungry. Are you hungry? Let’s eat…
Kuma's Corner
Kuma’s Corner is a biker-type bar that serves up delicious burgers on pretzel buns, they’ve even been on the Food Network. These burgers are named after heavy metal bands and that’s what dominates the speakers in this joint. They also tend to place a fried egg on top your massive slab of beef, prepare yourself for a truly decadent feast…
Hot Doug's
Hot Doug’s is one of the most talked about restaurants in Chicago (you could see by the epic-sized line above). However, this place is not over-hyped and boasts the finest quality encased meats. The hot dogs are nothing short of delicious and their fries are made with duck fat (mmmm). The experience makes up for the obscure location, as well as the long lines. GO ON A WEEKDAY.
Earwax Cafe
Vegans rejoice! We found you the perfect eatery. Earwax Cafe is in the always fun neighborhood of Wicker Park and boasts a savory menu of vegetarian-friendly dishes. Try the black bean burger, tuscan seitan sandwich, and the chocolate peanut butter shake.
Sultan's Market
I cannot praise this fast Middle Eastern place enough. The Sultan’s Market claims braggin rights for best falafel and shwarma in the city. Do not expect anything formal as the place is considerably small and perfect for absolutely awesome fast food. The best part is this place is a stone’s throw from our hostel.
Off the Radar: Alternative Things to do in Chicago
Have a cup at the Pick Me Up
Pick Me Up Cafe
This is a local favorite. They’re open 24 hours and boast excellent coffee with free refills and amazing cheese fries. However, as the owner would love to defend, they do not want to be strictly categorized as a “coffee-house.” In fact, this place mostly resembles a creatively decorated diner that serves up favorites like: Vegan French Toast, Kalhua Pancakes, The Garlicious Breast Sandwich, and of course their signature Cheez Fries.
Catch a Flick at The Music Box
The Music Box Theater
This movie venue is a real northside relic that proudly projects indie films, foreign hits, and old favorites. They have a cool special event section that annually includes The Music Box Massacre, a 24 hour horror film extravaganza. They also have midnight movies for us nocturnal creatures. The venue itself is worth the trip.
Watch a Show at IO
IO Chicago Improv
You probably have heard of Second City, but Improv Olympic in Wriggleyville has comedic bragging rights as well. Tickets are priced from $5-15 bucks and you will get your fill in laughs. Inside tip: guys from the Sonic commercials do a Wednesday evening show for $5 dollars and really bring on the hilarity for the cheapest cover.
Have a Drink at Delilah’s
Delilah's
There’s nothing wrong with sports bars, and Lincoln Park hosts quite the array of them. However, there is an abnormal gem often overlooked by the norm. Delilah’s dark decor sticks out at once as defused wires and cables stick out from walls and strange and interesting art looms plentiful. The menu offers around 90 different beers and 120 different whiskeys. The specials include $1 dollar beers on Mondays, $2 dollar whiskey shots on Tuesday and other great specials throughout the week.
Meet the Staff & Our Favorite Chicago Spots
We love Chicago. You want to see Chicago. Let’s meet and maybe our interests will give you some hip ideas on seeing our beautiful town. Also, this may give you some tips on experiencing cool stuff not usually found on the average tourist brochure. Oh, and please don’t be intimidated by our good looks…
Charlie Lopez
Q: What is your favorite Chicago venue for music?
A: The Beat Kitchen (Food, Booze, & Music!)
Q: What is your favorite bar/tavern/pub?
A: Goldies (Cheap booze!)
Q: What is your favorite pizza place?
A: Bacci’s Pizza (jumbo slices for cheap in Wrigleyville).
Q: What is your favorite Chicago band?
Q: What is your favorite place to eat in Lincoln Park?
A: Five Guys ( a lil’ pricey for burgers but really good).
Q: What is one of your favorite Chicago pastimes/things to do in the city?
A: Frolicking through Navy Pier.
Q: What is your favorite place to shop?
A: Something Old/Something New
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza at Our Doorstep
If you’re in search of famous Chicago deep dish pizza, a brief walk from the hostel will take you there. Two of our city’s favorite pizzerias, Gino’s East and Lou Malnati’s offer the delicious classic for a reasonable price. You can feed three to four people for about $20 and Lou Malnati’s offers individual pies that start at $5.50.
Eat & Drink Cheap Near Chicago Getaway Hostel
If you do a little research, you can find some cheap food and drink in Chicago. There are many places within walking distance of the Chicago Getaway Hostel that offer daily specials. Click here to find out which location has the best deal of the day.
