Welcome to the Fully Lived series (a great accompaniment to the Fully Lived podcast). As I've been exploring this nomad life, people keep asking where my favorite places are in each city I spend a decent amount of time in. Knowing this, I've decided to start a blog series highlighting my favorite haunts in cities that I spend at least a week in. Next in the series is Chicago, my "hometown!" 

to eat

These are the places I always take people (and go to myself) when I'm hungry in Chicago. 

MAHALO CHICAGO: For fantastic brunch, mimosas, and Hawaiian fare.

CHICAGO'S PIZZA: This is our favorite Chicago pizza place (though we know there are many to choose from)! A must-try.

THE COFFEE STUDIO: a modern, independent espresso bar focused on expertly crafting delicious drinks and snacks from fresh locally roasted coffees and simple, flavorful ingredients. 

SPOKE AND BIRD: For delicious pancakes, a quick and easy meal, and good conversation.

FOUNTAINHEAD: For great drinks and an amazing atmosphere, you'll find one of the biggest collections of whiskey, bourbon, and scotch that we've ever seen here! 

CAFE BA-BA-REEBA:  Because who doesn't love tapas and sangria? Great food!

THE ALLIS: Located inside Soho House, the Allis is a lounge and bar with an expansive art collection serving all day fare and a traditional British afternoon tea experience!

THE VIOLET HOUR: The only thing I can say about The Violet Hour is GO. You will not regret your experience. The best cocktails in the best atmosphere. 

Additional places I love to eat: Native Foods (vegan), Luxbar (saloon), Hub51 ("social dining" concept, tacos and sushi), Wow Bao (Asian), Benchmark (standard fare), Federales (tacos), Glazed and Infused (doughnuts), Mercadito (taquería), the publican (AMAZING oysters), Mon Ami Gabi (French), Sidebar (burgers), Steakbar (new steak dining concept), Belly Up (smokehouse), Bistronomic (French), Bull & Bear (bar/grill), Firecakes (more doughnuts), Fat Rosie's (tacos), Kanela (DIVINE breakfast), Sawada Coffee, and Little Goat Diner

to sleep

KIMPTON HOTELS: Never a bad night in a Kimpton! There are four to choose from in Chicago, ask me my favorite!

SOHO HOUSE CHICAGO: Duh. I always love staying in the rooms at Soho. 

to see

Here are a few places I like to take people throughout Chicago.

KOVAL: For an incredible boutique distillery experience (great for tours or for client gifting!). 

Stay tuned for more travel guides! Next up? Indianapolis, Indiana!