Hotel · Lake Forest
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"Deer Path Inn, located in Lake Forest, Illinois, is a runner-up and frequent reader favorite. The staff, including front desk, valet, restaurant, executive, and housekeeping, is praised as top-notch." - Cassidy Grubisic
Steak house · Lake Forest
Sophia Steak is a chic neighborhood steakhouse on the North Shore, where sumptuous steaks and seafood are served with warm hospitality in a stylish yet cozy atmosphere.
2 Postcards
Restaurant · Lake Forest
Le Colonial is a chic, upscale French-Vietnamese restaurant that blends elegance with vibrant flavors, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
1 Postcard
Sandwich shop · Bucktown
Casual spot for globally inspired sandwiches from Food Network's Jeff Mauro.
5 Postcards
Seafood restaurant · Lake Calumet Industrial District
Calumet Fisheries is a beloved, no-frills seafood shack on the 95th Street Bridge, renowned for its house-smoked fish and hearty fried seafood, making it a perfect grab-and-go spot for a riverside feast.
31 Postcards
Bicycle Shop · Bucktown
BFF Bikes is a welcoming women-specific shop that not only offers a stellar selection of bikes but also prioritizes community, training, and exceptional service.
Seafood restaurant · Arcadia Terrace
At The Angry Crab in Chicago, dive into indulgent seafood boils served by the pound with a Cajun twist, all while enjoying a BYOB atmosphere.
Coffee shop · West Loop
Swadesi Cafe is a lively spot in Chicago that fuses Indian flavors with cafe culture, serving up inventive bites like samosa croissants and creative drinks in a warm, casual atmosphere.
6 Postcards
Hot dog stand · Norwood Park East
Step back in time at this charming 1948 drive-in where you can savor Chicago-style hot dogs, crispy fries, and rich milkshakes—all from your car.
29 Postcards
Deli · Hyde Park
Bergstein's NY Deli serves up hearty Jewish deli classics, from sandwiches to salads, in a chill counter-service spot perfect for a casual bite in Hyde Park.
Taco restaurant · Lakeview
Cafe Tola combines cozy charm with a taco twist, dishing out hearty breakfast burritos, authentic empanadas, and friendly service, making it a perfect neighborhood pit stop.