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Living your best life in Chicago
21
items Eating, drinking, and surviving the ever changing weather. I've gathered some recommendations for experiences and products that have kept me going through the frigid winters.
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Sections
3
Destinations
Apparel
Other essentials
Destinations
Not even vegan (anymore) but Planta Queen is one of my absolute favorite spots in the city. The mushroom udon is my all time favorite cozy food. Dan Dan noodles are amazing as well.
PLANTA Queen
Love playing tennis and love that I can play it year-round. EBC has so many options for drills, tennis socials, court rentals and matches. I am finally getting some regular cardio in where I’m not just counting down the minutes before I’m done.
East Bank Club
Only positive experiences at NOW. The staff is amazing and so attentive to preferences. I try to get a massage before any air travel I have planned.
Lincoln Park - The NOW Massage
Definitely top 3 pizza spots for me, and they're very GF friendly if needed. The gf chicken tenders look and taste identical to the regular ones.
D'Agostino's Pizza and Pub | Italian Restaurant Chicago
This historic building turned bookstore is a great place to kill a day. So much good food nearby, and it's right off of the blue line.
Barnes & Noble
Black Cat espresso has been a staple for years, and intelligentsia's avena latte is amazing if you can swing by.
Black Cat Classic Espresso | Roasted to Order - Intelligentsia Coffee
When I'm saving money, one of my favorite (free) things to do is stop at the anti-cruelty society with my friends. A lot of these animals are so affectionate and just waiting for someone to show them some love and attention.
Anti-Cruelty
The seasonal flavors are so fun to try. Please bring back strawberry poptart 🙏
Sprinkles Cupcakes | Bakery, ATM, Online Ordering, Nationwide ...
Tanta really has some of the best Latin flavors in the city. Get the ceviche.
Tanta Chicago
I feel like Aveda products are next level so I love getting my hair done here and getting recommendations while trying new treatments out
Find Aveda Stores & Hours | Store & Salon Locator
Saturday brunch is a STEAL at $65 plus tax and tip. The miso cod bites have my heart ♥️
Nobu Chicago
Apparel
The perfect base layer IMO- lace details add a romantic touch, and merino wool regulates temperature while modal makes these soft and easy to move in.
Modal Cashmere Ultralight Long Lace Shirt | Intimissimi
Birdies feel like slippers but can be worn to the office, on walks at lunch, and out to dinner and they look great with cropped, flared, straight, or baggy jeans and trousers.
Women's Flats - Birdies
I always knew I wanted a pair of docs but when I saw this zipper style I immediately placed an order. Perfect for cold winters and so comfortable.
Zip-Up Zipper Boots & Shoes - Dr. Martens
Layers are key for staying comfortable October-May. Uniqlo's thermal wear is breathable and comfortable on its own but still keeps you warm underneath a jacket when you need it to.
Women's HEATTECH + Thermal Clothing | UNIQLO US
I think these totes are so versatile and roomy. I can pack my work things, clothes for the gym, and a separate outfit for happy hour with plenty of room for my lunch and water bottle.
Cloud Bags - Baggu
I have a Calvin Klein raincoat with removable insert that I bought a couple years ago at Costco and I use it more than any other coat. The inner layer is light and packable (usually enough warmth to last through fall) and when worn with the outer lay...
Calvin Klein Rain Coats Black Coats, Jackets & Vests for Men - eBay
Other essentials
A sturdy umbrella is an absolute must.
Umbrellas - Target
Between opening doors, counting cash, and spontaneous thrifting opportunities you're going to want to keep one of these in your bag.
Touchland
If you're planning to venture through the city, this and some sunscreen will keep your skin protected.
Anti-Pollution Mist - Grown Alchemist
Not only do they keep your feet warm and dry on those wet, slushy days, but they also protect your Uggs from all the wear and tear that usually happens. It’s such a simple way to make them last longer and look fresh, no matter what the weather decide...
Boot Guard - UGG