Summertime is in full swing with an abundance of newly opened eateries, a riveting Chicago-inspired musical and an interactive art collection to discover.
A newcomer to the Gold Coast, Café Sophie aims to be an inviting all-day destination.
TASTE
Nodding to the European cafes of London, Paris and Rome, Café Sophie arrives on the Gold Coast scene with serious old-world charm, a gourmet artisan market and a savory all-day menu curated by two-time Michelin-starred chef-partner Danny Grant of Maple & Ash. Morning, noon or night, the sophisticated 20-seat cafe aims to serve as a friendly neighborhood haven apart from the bustling city landscape. 847 N. State St.
Mezcal margaritas are among the creative sips at Bunker.
SIP
Mike Salvatore and the team of Heritage Hospitality have transformed a former Salvation Army building into the West Loop’s newest go-to neighborhood bar: Bunker, which tempts with original cocktails as well as bites from chef Rick Ortiz of Antique Taco (think toothsome burritos and Mexican-inspired dips). The watering hole aims to be a local hub for entertainment; watch the latest Bachelor episode or Bulls game live while playing shuffleboard. Dine in the courtyard patio with your furry friend in the sunshine or snag some hyperlocal craft beer or canned wine before heading to the United Center just a few blocks away. 1515 W. Monroe St.
Watch for Eli’s newest debut at this year’s Taste of Chicago: peanut butter crunch Dippers, frozen cheesecake on a stick, hand-dipped in chocolate made with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
TASTE
Beloved annual foodie extravaganza Taste of Chicago returns to the lakefront and Grant Park this summer, tempting locals and visitors with bite-size versions of specialties from top local restaurants alongside fresh international cuisine. Among the estimated 30 to 40 eateries and food trucks to be showcased, local icon Eli’s Cheesecake is particularly thrilled to be returning to the summer event. “It was at the first Taste of Chicago in 1980 that my dad and founder Eli M. Schulman introduced his cheesecake into the world,” says Eli’s president, Marc Schulman, who notes that the company will continue its tradition of baking and serving a huge birthday cheesecake to the public during the event. July 8-10, Grant Park, East Jackson Drive and South Columbus Drive
Cindy Sherman’s “For Chicago” (1986, C-print), 35 inches by 26 inches, part of the Cleve Carney Museum of Art’s permanent collection
EXPERIENCE
A culmination of some of the most recognizable masters in art history coupled with works of Chicago’s most notable contemporary artists, the Cleve Carney Museum of Art presents its latest exhibition, Hooking Up: Meet the Collection. The show invites visitors to participate in the compelling works of Rembrandt, Andy Warhol and Barack Obama’s portrait artist Kehinde Wiley by hanging their own creations in a declaration of artistic inclusion. June 4-Aug. 7, College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn
American Idol veteran Diana DeGarmo stars in the world premiere of Skates.
SEE
Chicago native Christine Rea debuts her new musical sensation Skates, which is inspired by her Windy City roots. American Idol stars Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young lead this coming-of-age tale of young ’90s rock star Jacqueline Miller reflecting on the love, joy and the hint of magic that made her who she is. As Jacqueline headlines her first national tour, she supports the reopening of her childhood roller rink, Windy City Skates, and retrospectively meets up with her 12-year-old self to discern how to overcome the challenges of her newfound stardom. Says Rea, “I am beyond thrilled to debut Skates in my hometown—come and join our party, Chicago!” Through June 26, 410 S. Michigan Ave.
Photography by: FROM TOP: PHOTO: COURTESY OF AARON BEAN; PHOTO: BY FIELD CREATIVES; PHOTO: COURTESY OF ELI’S CHEESECAKE; PHOTO: COURTESY OF CLEVE CARNEY MUSEUM OF ART; PHOTO: BY VIN REED
