It’s summer time and we are ready to put on our best sneaks (or birks) and take some neighborhood strolls. Welcome to part one of our series where we share our favorite haunts in Chicago’s neighborhoods. We are calling it, “planner’s day off”. First up, Bucktown! 

Morning

We would start our ideal Bucktown day with a long walk on the 606, jumping on at any entry but ending at Leavitt or Western to walk over to Allez Cafe. The breakfast sandwich is up there with the best in the city and the cream top is one of our favorite coffee drinks. Post coffee we would explore the shelves at Agora Market which has a mix of ready to eat foods, groceries from brands big and small and our favorite butcher’s counter. And because we don’t gatekeep- don’t sleep on the Swedish Fish shelf. 

Noon

Find us having lunch on the patio of the Leavitt Street Tavern which is always packed with neighbors + families. Post lunch if it’s high summer, we might take a dip in Holstein Park Pool before walking over to Ava’s Italian Ice where the rotating seasonal flavors always leave us pleasantly surprised (the plum is a personal favorite). 

Night

We always try something new at the Map Room. With some time before dinner we would stop there to see what’s on the menu. Le Bouchon is always a good idea and their classic French fare and crowded dining room sweep us on a mini vacation each and every time we go (they are also open for lunch). We would end the night at the Charleston for a classic cocktail and some great tunes.

These are some of our favorites – how would you spend your, “planner’s day off”? What neighborhood do you want to see from us next?