10.12 by boiMAGazine & boiMAG.com

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ISSUE 10.12

MIDSOMMARFEST 2012 PROGRAM GUIDE

Why should I give $5 at the gate? Midsommarfest is the primary fundraiser for the non-profit Andersonville Chamber of Commerce (ACC). ACC is not affiliated with larger groups such as the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. Where does my $5 go? In addition to helping cover the enormous costs of putting on a large festival, pretty much everything else that you enjoy about Andersonville year ‘round. Events such as Arts Weekend and the Andersonville Farmers’ Market, the clean streets and sidewalks, the unique, local small businesses, are supported in part or in whole by Midsommarfest. In addition, every beer that you purchase at the Midsommarfest beer booths at Berwyn, Catalpa and the Goose Island beer garden at Balmoral directly supports ACC and the work it does year ‘round to make Andersonville a great place to eat, shop, work and live. All that, plus a great day of entertainment, for just $5? Is it really that simple? Yes, it really is. And with each $5 donation while supplies last, donors get a raffle ticket for a chance to win 2 round trip tickets on Continental Airlines to anywhere in the U.S., Mexico or the Caribbean, plus prizes from other great Andersonville businesses. For more information, and to drop off raffle tickets, visit the ACC booth at the intersection of Clark & Berwyn during the fest. boi

3700 N. Halsted St. #2S Chicago, IL 60613

773.975.0264

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Mike Macharello Rick Karlin

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Photographers Oliver Aguilar Anita Shave Emmon Sexton Harry Chest

Editorial Contributors Harry Taint Ace Magyar

Gregg Shapiro Jason Cox - Midsommarfet

VIEW BOI ONLINE AT www.boimagazine.com

WELCOME HISTORY OF ANDERSONVILLE ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE MIDSOMMARFEST MAP MIDSOMMARFEST VENDORS DINING OUT IN ANDERSONVILLE Community events midsommarfest goes green DINING OUT IN CHICAGO CHICAGO SPOTLIGHT in the know, on the go! bars and clubs directory

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WELCOME TO ANDERSONVILLE While you may no longer hear as much Swedish spoken along Clark Street as you would have in the past, you are surrounded by the history and tradition of Swedish immigrants who turned what was once a cherry orchard into one of Chicago’s most thriving, popular and unique neighborhoods. Each year on the second full weekend of June, we invite our neighbors and friends to celebrate Andersonville during Midsommarfest. Why is it called ‘Midsommar’ when summer hasn’t even officially started? The festival is named for Midsommarafton (Midsummer’s Eve) and Midsommardagen (Midsummer’s Day). These traditional Swedish celebrations mark the summer solstice and take place in Sweden each year on the Friday and Saturday between June 19th and June 26th. A hallmark of the celebration is the raising of a midsommarstang, a maypole that is covered in flowers. Families gather to listen to music and dance around the maypole and many wear traditional folk costumes. Each year at Midsommarfest we honor this tradition with a maypole dance at 11:45 am at the South Stage at Clark & Foster. As Andersonville has grown over the years and attracted a diverse array of businesses, so too has Midsommarfest grown to reflect the diversity of the neighborhood. With 6 stages, a bustling family area, beer garden,160 food vendors, merchants, artists and non-profits PLUS all of the great stores and restaurants in Andersonville both on the venue and off, Midsommarfest is a great way to spend the weekend. Thank you so much for visiting Andersonville and supporting us, welcome to the neighborhood!

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HISTORIC ANDERSONVILLE In March, 2010, the Andersonville business area was named a National Historic District by the United States Department of the Interior. The designation was granted because of Andersonville’s rich cultural and architectural history. In recent years Andersonville has gained national acclaim as a model urban community, with a thriving commercial district filled with unique, independent businesses and a commitment to environmental sustainability. But Andersonville’s roots as a community extend well back into the 19th century, when immigrant Swedish farmers started moving north into what was then a distant suburb of Chicago. In the 1850s the area north of Foster and east of Clark was a large cherry orchard, and families had only begun to move into the fringes of what is now Andersonville. The neighborhood’s first school, the Andersonville School, was built in 1854 at the corner of those two thoroughfares, and it served as the area’s primary school until 1908. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, wooden homes were outlawed in Chicago, and Swedish immigrants, who could not afford to build homes of stone or brick, began to move outside of the city’s northern limits. Swedish immigrants continued to arrive in Andersonville through the beginning of the 20th century, settling in the newly built homes surrounding Clark Street.

to Chicago. The Museum was opened to the public in a ceremony attended by King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden, who returned in 1988 to dedicate new and larger quarters at 5211 North Clark Street. In the late 1980s, Andersonville began a period of revival as new groups discovered its lovely housing stock, easy access to downtown Chicago and the lakefront, and unique commercial district. Today, Andersonville is comprised almost entirely of unique, locally owned, independent businesses. The vast majority of Andersonville merchants have ties in the community beyond the walls of their business. Andersonville’s commitment to all things local isn’t its only claim to fame; like no other neighborhood in Chicago, Andersonville has also demonstrated a deep commitment to the planet. eco-Andersonville, a program of the Andersonville Development Corporation (ADC), is designed to ensure that the neighborhood stays environmentally, economically and socially sustainable for many years to come. eco-Andersonville offers one of the only sustainable business certification programs aimed specifically at local, small businesses.

Before long, the entire commercial strip was dominated by Swedish businesses, from delis to hardware stores, shoe stores to blacksmiths, and bakeries to realty companies. The local churches, such as Ebenezer Lutheran Church, Bethany Methodist Episcopal Church, First Evangelical Free Church and St. Gregory’s Roman Catholic Church, were also built by Swedes, and reflected the religious diversity of the new arrivals. Like most other European-American ethnic groups, Swedes began to move to the suburbs during the Depression and post-war periods, and the neighborhood began to decline. Concerned about the deteriorating commercial situation, the Uptown Clark Street Business Association renewed its commitment to its Swedish heritage by renaming itself the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce. On October 17, 1964, Andersonville was rededicated in a ceremony attended by Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley and Illinois Governor Otto Kerner. At about the same time, the annual Swedish tradition of celebrating the summer solstice blossomed into Midsommarfest, which has since grown into one of Chicago’s largest and most popular street festivals. The Swedish American Museum was founded in 1976, by Kurt Mathiasson, as a grassroots effort to preserve and disseminate the history of the great contributions of early Swedish immigrants boi 13

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ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

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FESTIVAL VENDORS Merchants A La Card Chicago baan home Big Skinny Wallets Bow Wow Lounge Brownstone Antiques Bucky Gear Canine Social Club Capitol City Speed Demons Chi-Town-Best-Mask Clark’s Antiques Drink Deck Fair Earth Foot Path Trading Fred Locher Furturgarb Indigenous Artworks Kopi Cafe Koru Street Metals Jewelry Moda Boutique Nomadic Ant Out of Africa Rad Vintage Red Balloon Company Solola The L Stop Transit Tees

Just For Dogs Lucius Art Limbo Jewelry Design Madcanvasses Mia’s Wish Michelle Hierzer Nicolet Candle Company Obscure Belts Patrick J. Ward Pet Portraiture PhotoAccents by StellaLily Recycled Creations RedAvaDesigns & Madame Platypus Ron Gould Studies The Sign Post Stacy Raube & Yutaka Fujita Treat Your Body Unreal Tattoos WORKS! ZZZ Threadz

Food Andies Rezas Calo First Slice Hamburger Marys Homemade Pizza Artists Jerry’s Alapash Jin Thai Atira Jewelry Noodle Zone Bead of a Different Drum Beat Kitchen Brunkow Cheese Nicholas Quality Meats Bryan Sperry Paciugo Carol Fletcher Photography The Strawberry Patch Chicago Dye Works Nina’s Mexican Grill Chuck Meyers Lee’s Concessions Denise Riesen Photography Dumpling House Demographic El Campeon Designs By Gina Genoa Italian Earth Cadets Georgie’s Greek Tasty Fish Face Gene Pembroke Photography That’s So Corny I Love T iCandee Apparel Imaginary Girl Jewelry

Non-Profits About Face Theatre Bethany Retirement Home Chi-Town Squares Chicago Filmmakers Chicago Rowing Union Children’s Memorial Hospital CMSA Ebenezer Lutheran Famous Fido Rescue First Free Church Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Howard Brown/LCCP Human Rights Campaign I-Go Cars Lakeside Pride Lambda Legal Lesbian & Gay Police Assn. Log Cabin Republicans Mercy For Animals Heather Steans/Kelly Cassidy One Tail At A Time pH Productions Shambhala Meditation Ctr. T-PAN Tree House Humane Society Urban Village Church Windy City Performing Arts Sponsors George’s Ice Cream & Sweets Hamburger Mary’s Swedish American Museum Alamo Shoes Gay Chicago TV Simon’s Tavern Simply Naked Budweiser 101.9 The Mix 97.1 The Drive K-Hits 104.3 1st Family Dental Advanced Spine & Sports Care Chiro One Wellness Cente

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DINING SPOTS IN ANDERSONVILLE In Andersonville, there are hundreds of dining and drinking options with something for everybody’s tastes. Here are some our favorite spots...

Sit Down & Eat Acre/Bar Ombra, 5310 N. Clark Acre focuses on regional ingredients, while Ombra serves Italian small plates. Andies, 5253 N. Clark Take a culinary tour around the Mediterranean, with Greek, Italian and Middle Eastern fare, while sitting in front of the fireplace or street-side windows Anteprima, 5316 N. Clark A new twist on traditional Italian cuisine in an upscale atmosphere. A Taste of Heaven, 5401 N. Clark The best scones in the world? Try the universe! Serves light meals as well. Ann Sather, 5207 N. Clark Open for breakfast and lunch, Andersonville’s outpost for all things good. Big Jones, 5347 N. Clark Southern food with a sophisticated edge. Bongo Room, 5022 N. Clark A recent addition to the neighborhood of this Wicker Park breakfast and lunch spot. The Burger Philosophy, 1541 W. Bryn Mawr. Their philosophy seems to be a combination of “bigger is better” and “try something new” which combined means unusually delish burgers. Calo Restaurant, 5343 N. Clark Old school Italian fare in a fancy new setting. Fireside Restaurant, 5739 N. Ravenswood From simple burgers to an elegant meal enjoy this neighborhood landmark. First Slice Pie Café, 5357 N. Ashland A new addition to the neighborhood and already becoming a favorite for its delicious baked goods, meals & salads. Great Lake, 1477 W. Balmoral Named by Esquire Magazine as the best pizza in the world.

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Hamburger Mary’s, 5400 N. Clark Whether you prefer the raucous dining room, the laid back sports bar or want to enjoy entertainment or dance in Mary’s Attic, this campy place serves up burgers and sandwiches.

Sunshine Café, 5449 N. Clark Nothing fancy, just good, healthy Asian food in a peaceful environment. Svea Restaurant, 5236 N. Clark Traditional Swedish breakfast and lunch fare serving until early evening.

Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark One of the city’s original gastro-pubs, the Dutchinfluenced food wins critical raves.

Tanoshii, 5547 N. Clark Pleasant servers and traditional Japanese food.

Huey’s, 1507 W. Balmoral A traditional Chicago style hot dog and beef place.

Tapas Las Ramblas, 5101 N. Clark Traditional and innovative tapas and a great selection of wines.

Icosium Kafé, 5200 N. Clark Crepes and Mediterranean food.

Tokyo Marina, 5058 N. Clark A reliable spot for sushi for decades.

Jin Ju, 5203 N. Clark Upscale Korean in a cozy setting.

Vincent, 1475 W. Balmoral If you’ve ever been to Amsterdam you’ll be familiar with the food at this quaint little bistro.

Jin Thai, 5458 N. Broadway Traditional Thai and Asian cuisine. Konak, 5150 N. Clark Good, basic food at reasonable prices. Kopi Café, 5317 N. Clark Delicious pastries, good nibbles and light meals in a laid-back coffee house. Lady Gregory’s, 5260 N. Clark Great food from the British Isles from the folks who own Wilde and??? La Fonda, 5350 N. Broadway A Latino cantina, with legendary food & sangria. M Henry, 5707 N. Clark This breakfast and lunch spot is so popular that it’s had to expand and open another location in Edgewater. Noodle Zone, 5427 N. Clark The aptly named spot focuses on a variety of Asian pasta, as well as sushi. Ora: A Sushi Restaurant, 5143 N. Clark Don’t let the name fool you, there’s also plenty of traditional Japanese fare on the menu. Pauline’s, 1754 W. Balmoral A modern twist on the urban truck stop that is a neighborhood favorite.

Grab a Bite Coffee Studio, 5628 N. Clark George’s Ice Cream, 5306 N. Clark Middle East Bakery, 1512 W. Foster Swedish Bakery, 5348 N. Clark JB’s Deli, 5501 N. Clark

Bottoms Up @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark Popular with the GLBT community, features dancers and shows from time to time. Farraguts Tavern, 5240 N. Clark A laid-back place where old and new friends meet. In Fine Spirits, 5418 N. Clark A great wine bar and store. Joie de Vine, 1744 W. Balmoral A wine bar with some incredible nibbles on the menu. Marty’s, 1511 W. Balmoral The best martinis in the neighborhood.

Premise, 5420 N. Clark A new spot on the Andersonville map.

Simon’s Tavern, 5210 N. Clark The quintessential corner bar.

Ranalli’s, 1512 W. Berwyn This location of the local mini-chain features an attractive dining room and a walk-up window.

SoFo, 4923 N. Clark SoFo stands for South of Foster, a laid back tavern that welcomes doggies on Saturday afternoons.

Reza’s, 5255 N. Clark One of the first and still one of the most popular Persian restaurants in town.

T’s, 5025 N. Clark A favorite with sporty GLBT types as well as neighborhood favorites, serves great bar food.

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COMMUNITY EVENTS Hardly a week goes by without some sort of special reason to visit Andersonville. Those who live in the area enjoy these festivities right outside their doors, such as the weekly farmers’ market, held every Wednesday on Berwyn between Clark and Ashland from June 13 through October 17. Other upcoming events include:

Andersonville Sidewalk Sale July 27-29

The stores of Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood will be lining the sidewalks with great bargains as participating merchants fill a mile of Clark Street (from 5000 to 5800). Check out the bargains from old favorites and discover new neighborhood treasures. During the sale check out Women & Children First Used Book Sale (on Saturday and Sunday). The W&CF sale benefits the Women’s Voices Fund, its goal is to foster discussion of feminist issues and culture, and to nurture children’s delight in books.

St. Morten’s Gos Day Nov. 20

In Sweden, St. Martin’s Day is celebrated each November as a time for good food and fun around a traditional pre-Holiday dinner of roast goose. Andersonville’s festival, which kicks off the holiday season, will feature carolers, Vikings, geese, Highlanders and other revelers in native and holiday dress spreading good cheer throughout the neighborhood.

Late Night Andersonville Nov. 30

Andersonville stays up late for the Late Night Andersonville festival! From 6-10 p.m., stores and restaurants will be offering great discounts on distinctive gifts and delectable after-hours meals, plus complimentary refreshments and entertainment.

Julmarknad Dec. 1-2

During the yearly Julmarknad festival, the Swedish American Museum features a handicrafts fair with traditional Swedish food and entertainment on Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00pm and Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Admission is $2.

Taste of Andersonville Dinner Crawl Aug. 15 Take a bite out of the neighborhood and enjoy your favorites, find new spots to eat, and meet lots of neighbors and friends. Held in conjunction with the farmers’ market, this evening is sure to be a foodie’s dream come true! Be on the lookout for St. Lucia Festival of Lights Dec. 13 The festival of St. Lucia is a Sicilian tradition ticket sales and more information in July! adopted by the Swedes, a celebration of lights prevailing over the darkest time of Andersonville Dessert Crawl Sept. 23 the year. Starting at the Swedish American After dinner you must have dessert. Take Museum at sundown, a candlelit, carol-filled your sweet tooth on a stroll through the procession files down Clark Street. Afterwards, neighborhood! Choose from the SUGAR Route the Museum hosts more singing, family or the SPICE Route, both filled with great treats. entertainment and treats. The procession Or do “EVERYTHING NICE” (both routes). More is free; admission to the museum is $1 or a information and ticket sales starting in August! canned food item to benefit the homeless. There will also be a special St. Lucia service at Andersonville Arts Weekend October 5-7 Ebenezer Lutheran Church starting at 7:00 pm. For the 10th year, Andersonville is thrilled to celebrate many of the artists who live and work Late-er Night Andersonville Dec. 14 in the neighborhood. Shops throughout the Are you a procrastinator when it comes to neighborhood will showcase original artwork holiday shopping? Then second edition of by dozens of local artists. On Friday, “Night of Late Night Andersonville, is just for you.. 100 PARTies!” kicks things off with an evening From 6-10 p.m. take advantage of the same of receptions, plus a variety of live shows and discounts from Late Night Andersonville, plus performances, up and down Clark Street. A list once again enjoy free entertainment and of artists and participating businesses, schedule refreshments of events, and more information will be available starting in July. boi 27

SILVER SCREEN From Andersonville to the Silver Screen

By R. Kivist

While enjoying Midsommarfest, many folks won’t be aware of the fact that a number of silent film stars lived and worked just a few blocks away. The Essanay Film Studio, was founded in 1907 and in 1908 moved to 1333–45 W. Argyle. Founded by George K. Spoor and Gilbert M. Anderson (their initials S&A inspired the studio’s name) Essanay produced silent films with such stars as Ben Turpin, Wallace Beery, Francis X. Bushman, Gloria Swanson, Tom Mix, Harold Lloyd, Eugene Pallette and of course, Charlie Chaplin. Louella Parsons was also hired as a screenwriter and went on to be a Hollywood gossip columnist. The mainstays of the organization, however, Chaplin’s films and westerns starring studio coowner Anderson (no relation to Andersonville) as the popular Broncho Billy character. Chaplin disliked the unpredictable weather of Chicago, and left after only one year for more money and more creative control elsewhere. His departure sent the company into decline. The Essanay building in Chicago was later taken over by independent producer Norman Wilding, who made industrial films. In the early 70s a portion of the studio was offered to Columbia College for a dollar but the offer lapsed without action. Today the Essanay lot is the home of St. Augustine’s College, and its main meeting hall has been named the Charlie Chaplin Auditorium.

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SPECIAL PROMOTIONS BUY A BEER, SUPPORT A SCHOOL

Strong vibrant neighborhoods need great schools, and this year when you buy a beer at Midsommarfest, you are also helping to support three in Andersonville! Parents, teachers and friends from Peirce Elementary, Trumbull Elementary and St. Greg’s High School will be working the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce beer booths at Catalpa, Berwyn and Balmoral. When you buy a beer (and leave a tip) at these locations, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the schools.

SHOP IN ANDERSONVILLE, GET A FREE BEER

Have you had your eye on that cute shirt for a while? Thinking about booking a massage to relieve some stress? Now is the perfect time to treat yourself! If you spend $30 at any locally-owned Andersonville retail location or service provider (from a haircut to dry cleaning to dog grooming

and more!) during Midsommarfest weekend, bring your receipt to the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce booth and get a coupon for a FREE beer during the festival.

THE FINE PRINT

Valid for purchases Friday, June 8 - Sunday, June 10. Store or service provider must be locallyowned and located in the Andersonville retail district (Ainslie-Victoria, Magnolia-Ravenswood). Purchases at bars, restaurants and outdoor Midsommarfest vendors are excluded from this promotion. One beer coupon per $30 receipt per person. The Chamber booth is located at Clark and Rascher on June 8 and at Clark & Berwyn on June 9 & 10. You must be 21 years of age or older with a valid photo ID to recieve this promotion

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BOI’S BEST RESTAURANTS AMERICAN___________

Ann Sather 929 W. Belmont 773.348.2378.

Horizon Café 3805 N. Broadway 773.883.1565.

5207 N Clark 773.271.6627 & 3411 N Broadway 773.305.0024. These bustling hot spots, serving traditional Swedish pancake house fare, are best known for hearty fare and delish cinnamon rolls.

This long-time popular Lakeview family restaurant serves up big portions of creative homestyle dishes as well as healthy fare (broth-based soups and whole wheat tortilla wraps) and at affordable prices. Breakfast served all day long. Delivery available.

The Bagel 3107 N. Broadway 773.477.0300

IHOP 3760 N. Halsted 773.296.0048. More than a

Chicago Diner 3411 N. Halsted 773.935.6696

Jury’s 4337 N. Lincoln 773.935.2255. Watch all

The quintessential Jewish style deli is the perfect spot for a corned beef or pastrami sandwich, some chicken soup, lox and bagels or a full dinner that tastes as if someone’s Jewish momma made it. This world famous vegetarian restaurant offers vegan and organic offerings. Organic beers, wine, and spirits are also available.

Clark Street Dog 3040 N. Clark 773.281-

6690. Open until four in the morning and serving up all the deliciousness you can imagine after you leave the bar.

Crew 4804 N. Broadway 773.784.2739. More

than just a sports bar, the menu includes a variety of hamburgers, sandwiches, salads and comfort food.

Jimbo’s Red Hots 3617 N. Broadway 773.868-

9700. Steamed jumbo hot dogs from Red Hot Chicago with toppings such as pickles, lettuce, tomato, celery salt, onions & hot peppers; char dogs & foot longs too. Open 24 hours. Signature Pizza located in the same spot, serving pizza, pasta & burgers, also open 24 hours.

Golden Nugget Family Restaurants

2720 N. Clark 773.929.0724. 2406 W. Diversey 773.252.8903. 1765 W. Lawrence 773.769.6700. A great option for after bar dining as they are all open 24-7, and have free parking. The large menu is sure to please, especially the classic breakfast and hearty dinners. Everything is housemade, known for fluffy buttermilk pancakes,

Halsted’s Bar & Grill 3441 N. Halsted

pancake house, this 24-hour Boystown institution serves up affordably priced appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees that are sure to satisfy varying after-bar wants and needs. the poplular sports at this friendly neighborhood sports bar. Known for their killer burgers. They offer a late night menu along with daily specials and even brunch on Sundays.

Kit Kat Lounge 3700 N. Halsted 773.525.1111.

Providing the best of diva entertainment along with a full dinner menu, they offer ½-price cocktails and Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entree on Wednesdays.. On Monday nights get 50% off your entire bill.

Nookies Tree 3334 N. Halsted 773.248.9888 and Nookies Edgewater1100 W. Bryn

Mawr 773.516-4188. A regular haunt for the locals of Boystown (also Edgewater) and popular with hangover recoverees, the diner serves made-to-order omelets, pancakes, waffles and other brunch fare all day. And it’s open 24 hours on weekends.

Melrose 3233 N Broadway 773.327.2060. This

Lakeview institution has been catering to the afterbar crowds for decades, serving breakfast anytime along with typical diner fare. Open 24 hours

Philly’s Best 907 W. Belmont 773.525.7900.

Authentic Philly cheese steak sandwich. Their meat is brought directly from Philadelphia. Also, medium crust pizza, oven baked grinders & fresh salads.

Pie Hole Pizza 3477 N. Broadway 773.525.8888. Their “hole” is open Sunday-Thursday from 11ammidnight and Friday & Saturday until 3am. Grab it and go or have it delivered.. your pizza, that is!!

773.348.9696 This Boystown eatery serves up a wide array of tasty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, and popular comfort food items at very reasonable prices in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Beers on tap are aplenty and the weekend brunch draws an attractive crowd.

Stella’s Diner 3042 N. Broadway 773.472.9040. Friendly staff serve up delicious diner fare, such as; fresh salads, a large selection of wraps, sandwiches, hearty entrees, pastas, and homemade desert

Hamburger Mary’s 5400 N. Clark

Wilde Bar & Restaurant 3130 N. Broadway

773.784.6969. “Eat, Drink and be... MARY” at this fun and popular Andersonville restaurant which features a wide array of burgers and sandwiches, along with an interesting selection of tasty appetizers. Wash it all down with one of Mary’s home-brewed ales.

773.244.0404. This cozy upscale Irish pub offers a laid back and warm atmosphere and a wide ranging menu that is sure to please. Expect updated versions of pub favorites such as chicken pot pie, meatloaf, fish & chips, burgers and salads. boi 35

BOI’S BEST RESTAURANTS ASIAN__________________

Ba Le 5014 N. Broadway 773.561.4424. The

original and still the best bahn mi sandwich in town. In addition to the traditional style, there are a number of vegetarian options. The bright clean dining area is inviting and the staff is eager to explain all your options.

and vegetarian cuisine, specialties of the house include steak kabobs, gyros, and poultry dishes such as Greek Chicken and Lebanese Style Chicken Kefta Kabob. And as befits the cuisine, desserts include a very tasty baklava. The Sunday buffet brunch is extravagant and reasonably priced.

Young’s Chinese 3949 N. Ashland

Gyro-Mena 905 W. Belmont 773.935.2600.

773.248.7998. This well-regarded outpost has earned a stellar reputation for great tasting food and delivery so quick you’ll swear there must be a wok in the car. ITALIAN_________________

Anna Maria Pasteria 4400 N. Clark

773.506.2662. Owned by sisters who hail from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, this neighborhood gem creates homemade modern and traditional Italian dishes that are authentic, delicious & inexpensive.

Angelina Ristorante 3561 N. Broadway

Augments the Athenian Gyros by satisfying the American desire to pick our own toppings! True Athenian Gyros is a choice of all natural non-ground meat (pork or chicken) stacked and cooked on a rotisserie. MEXICAN/LATIN__________

Cesar’s 2924 N. Broadway 773.296.9097 and at

3166 N Clark 773.248.2835 This family-owned operation offers an enticing menu full of delicious Mexican recipes, popular house specialties, irresistible desserts, and their signature “Killer Margaritas.”

773.935.5933. Hosting the coolest and hippest Sunday brunch crowd in Lakeview, the menu includes Eggs Benedict, fritattas, Croque Monsieur and mufaletta sandwiches, almond-crusted stuffed French toast, and the free flow of Champagne mimosas. Brunch here is loud, raucous and FUN! Great for dinner, as well.

El Mariachi 3906 N. Broadway 773.549-2932

Club Lucky 1824 W. Wabansia Ave. 773.227.2300.

El Nuevo Mexicano 2914 N. Clark 773.528.2131.

Popular Bucktown/Wicker Pk. restaurant & unique cocktail lounge. Generous portions of traditional Italian specialties and daily specials. Outdoor patio.

Panino’s Pizzeria 3702 N. Broadway

773.472.6200. Panino’s has established itself as a Boystown favorite with its varied menu selections, including gyros and burgers, pasta entrees, and of course pizza. Delivery available.

Piehole Pizza 3477 N. Broadway 773.525.8888. From their hole to yours. Traditional pizza served in untraditional ways. Delivering until late at night.

Taverna 750 750 W. Cornelia Ave 773.248.8333.

This restaurant, formerly known as Cornelia’s is the latest trendy Italian restaurant in the neighborhood. New owners, new looks and a new menu is sure to make this a new hot spot. MEDITERRANEAN____

Andies 1467 W. Montrose 773.348.0654. 5253 N

Clark 773.784.8616. Specializing in Mediterranean 36 boi

and at 3420 N. Broadway 773.549-7020. Quickly becoming one of the very best Mexican restaurants in the city, the focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients for its “south of the border” cuisine. Full bar featuring over 100 brands of tequila. Cozy dining room along with authentic Mexican cuisine makes this a great place for delicious dining. Open for lunch & dinner, great patio for summer outdoor dining. Delivery available too!

Las Mananitas 3523 N. Halsted St. 773.528.2109. Traditional & regional Mexican dishes along with freshly squeezed limes for margaritas. Nice place to eat, drink and window watch people on Halsted St. Has a full bar & plenty of hardy dishes to satisfy any appetite. Serving the community for over 28 years. Fiesta Mexicana 2423 N. Lincoln Ave 773.348.4144 (2nd Location) 4806 N. Broadway 773.769.4244. Traditional favorites along with great ambiance. Nice place to bring your family, friends or bring a date to. The Lincoln location has daily specials & live music. Is your target market is in our distribution area?? ADVERTISE YOUR RESTAURANT IN BOI MAGAZINE Call 773.975.0264 or email us at boiADS@aol.com More listings @ boimagazine.com, click on Dining link

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CHICAGO SPOTLIGHT! SCOTT FREE by Gregg Shapiro Activist and musician Scott Free, a 2010 inductee into Chicago’s Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame, has worked tirelessly on behalf of a variety of LGBT causes. Perhaps best known as a performer and the creator of the successful Homolatte performance series at Big Chicks and the annual Alt Q Music Festival at Old Town School of Folk Music. When did you come out and what was the experience like for you? I knew I was gay by age 12 or 13. And this is embarrassing, but it was like (in) the movie “Airplane,” where Peter Graves asks the boy if he likes to watch gladiator movies! I would sit at our black & white TV every afternoon, and would always seem to stop the channel at the gladiator movies. Then I realized that I liked the gladiator movies because the guys had really thick legs. And then it hit me - I’m gay!! I can joke now, but at the time it was more like “Oh...I’m a homosexual.....so I guess I’ll live my life alone,and end up trolling bathrooms as an old man” - that’s really what I thought. That’s what I thought being a homosexual meant. So there were many years of depression growing up. But I think because I never questioned it or doubted it, I had an inner defiance. Despite what the world said at the time, I knew there was nothing wrong with me. They were the ones who were wrong & we’ve proven it. Please name five of your GLBT heroes and say a few words about why you chose them. I decided not to name GLBT heroes from the past, but to stick with folks working (in gay and nongay issues) today. Rachel Maddow - MSNBC host and political analyst. She broke the story nationally on the “Kill The Gays” bill in Uganda, and has covered numerous national gay rights issues. JD Doyle - runs Queer Music Heritage, an amazing website with comprehensive history of gay music. He just scooped the 50-year mystery of who sang on the first full-length gay album “Love Is A Drag,” released in 1962 . It turns out it was Gene Howard, band singer for Gene Krupa and Stan Kenton, and he was straight! 38 boi

Andy Thayer - he (basically, if not officially) runs Gay Liberation Network, and organized the Matthew Shepard March for many years. He is a tireless organizer of street action protests, covering gay rights, worker rights and anti-war issues. Jonathan Capehart - MSNBC contributor, and correspondent for “In The Life,” the PBS program on GLBT issues. What can I say? He’s the grooviest! Len Rogers - creator of Stonewall Society, and Pride in The Arts, who now runs Outvoice.net, the LGBT music album charts website. His organization and awards provide worthy recognition and valuable exposure for independent artists. What do you consider to be your most significant contribution to the GLBT community in Chicago and at large? On a local level, I know the work I have done through my two GLBT music and performance events, Homolatte and ALT Q, helped to build a live performance queer arts community, and have provided a space for touring GLBT musicians and spoken word performers to present their work in Chicago. Nationally, I would hope that my recordings have had an impact, with my songs about growing up gay, issues around the GLBT community, and gay rights. What are your future goals and aspirations? I’m hoping to get back to writing and recording, I have a number of album concepts ready to go, the concepts, that is! Words of wisdom to the next GLBT generation? I guess I would try to emphasize the importance of maintaining an GLBT community, which is in danger of disappearing due to the success of our movement. This can exist in so many concurrent ways, from music events, sports teams, fetish groups, or political action organizations. The emergence of the on-line world has been wonderful for people who live isolated in small towns, but the on-line world can also be a force that further isolates people. I would hope in the future, the on-line world could be a resource that provides the means to bring people together in the physical world, and bringing them together in new ways.

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IN THE KNOW, ON THE GO Hangin’ Out In The ‘Ville

Since you’re up in Andersonville, it might be a good time to let you know about some things going on after Midsommarfest. Check out Big Red’s cabaret in Mary’s Attic on the second Thursday of each month, and of course, every Sunday there’s Charity Ham-Bingo with the lovely and vivacious Velicity Metropolis. Also, mark your calendar for a Bucky Gear Fashion Show in Mary’s Attic, Thursday, June 21. The event will be hosted by Nicholas Taylor (from Awesomemonster comedy) and tunes by DJ Freddie Bain… The folks at Akira will take 20% off if you show them their ad in BOI. That’s 20% off your purchase, not the clothing they’re wearing, you naughty boys! The Call presents “A Tribute to Broadway” on June 16, while on that same night all three of the city’s GLBT chourses (Windy City and Chicago Gay Men’s Choruses and Artemis Singers) unite for a pride concert, “The Sound of Fabulous”, guaranteed to blow the roof off the Senn High School auditorium… On a slightly less-wholesome note Man’s Country features nude strippers on weekends. One question: “How do they strip if they’re nude?”… If you haven’t caught Hell in a Handbag’s latest show “Sexy Baby” at Mary’s Attic, the June 6 performance will be a benefit for the Gay & Lesbian Hall of Fame. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll pee in your pants. I have just two words for you; “polyurethane forehead”.

Meanwhile, Back on Halsted

Sidetrack celebrates 30 years of video madness on June 13. The party, starting at 8, will feature three decades of Sidetrack favorites and some special video treats. There’s no cover, but there will be give-aways, special performances and a drawing for free airfare for two from Orbitz…Circuit Night Club hosts the Gay & Lesbian Hall of Fame’s “Pride & Joy” reception on June 18…Hydrate welcomes two of my favorite queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Latrice “Mother Fuckin’” Royale & Dida “Ashy Legs” Ritz on June 9…Can it be true that Mia Francesca is celebrating 20 years in Lakeview? It seems like just yesterday I was buying chocolates at the candy store that used to occupy that 42 boi

space. BTW I know Mia Francesca’s on Clark, not Halsted, but if I, at my advanced age, can walk it, so can you… Congratulations to ChicagoPride. com, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a party on June 14 at Hydrate.

We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

Touché hosts “Dungeon Master Night”, with an S&M demo at midnight on June 9. BTW, if your wallet’s a little thin, remember that every Sunday the bar offers beers for fifty cent… Check out the new bar in town, Dragon Lady Lounge, 3188 N. Elston… Cheese, Louise! Is it already time for Milwaukee’s Pridefest? Yep, and if you want to see how you stack up against boys from the dairy state, head up there June 810… If you’re looking for a change of pace after Chicago’s pride parade, consider Nik’s House Party at Nikki Nightclub, 1543 N. Kingsbury. For more information go to www.partyatniks. com…One of the best art shows in town, the Old Town Art Fair will run June 9 and10. Great art and nice looking, wealthy people window shopping. If you’re looking for a sugar daddy/momma this is the place… Glitterati Productions presents the 20th anniversary production of “The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me” at Luna Theater through July 17th… Lambda Legal Chicago’s Leadership Council will host an art gallery walk on June 7 focusing on prominent women-owned art galleries in River West, hors d’oeuvres and wine will be served at each gallery. Limited tickets, $20, will be available online at lambdalegal.org… United Latino/a Pride presents “Unite for One Night” on June 10 at Excalibur. A panel of 24 GLBT promoters and15 deejays celebrates Latino/a pride as a benefit for United Latino/a Pride Organization… Miss Foozie will host her annual “Lake Breeze” Pride Cruise on Friday, June 22, at least we think it’s a lake breeze, it just may be Miss Foozie’s digestive system.

Poker? I Don’t Even Know Her!

The Lesbian and Gay Police Association and Gay Officers Action League host a Texas Hold’em fundraiser on June 16 at Spyners Pub, 4623 N. Western. The buy-in is $100 a player, must be 21 or older. The contest features cash prizes. For

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CHICAGO’S NIGHT CLUBS & BARS Boystown / Lakeview

3160 3160 N.Clark G&L, LM,DS Berlin 954 W. Belmont G&L, D, 4 Bobby Love’s 3729 N. Halsted G&L Buck’s Saloon 3439 N. Halsted G Cell Block 3702 N. Halsted G, LF Charlie’s 3726 N. Broadway G, D, W Circuit 2.02 3641 N. Halsted G&L, D, 4 Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted G, GB Elixir Lounge 3452 N. Halsted G, 4 F. O’Mahony’s 3701 N. Broadway G&L, R Hydrate 3458 N. Halsted G, D, DS, 4 Kit Kat 3700 N. Halsted G&L, DS, R Little Jim’s 3501 N. Halsted G, V, 4 Lucky Horseshoe 3169 N. Halsted G, GB Manhandler 1948 N. Halsted G, W, 4 Minibar 3341 N. Halsted G, R North End 3733 N. Halsted G Roscoe’s 3356 N. Halsted G, D, V, DS Scarlet 3320 N. Halsted G Sidetrack 3349 N. Halsted G, V Smart Bar / Metro 3730 N. Clark MS, D, 4 Spin 800 W. Belmont G&L, V, 4 The Closet 3325 N. Broadway G&L, V, 4

773.327.5969 773.348.4975 773.525.1200 773.525.1125 773.665.8064 773.871.8887 773.325.2233 773.477.1420 773.477.1420 773.549.0226 773.975.9244 773.525.1111 773.871.6116 773.404.3169 773.871.3339 773.871.6227 773.477.7999 773.281.3355 773.348.1053 773.477.9189 773.549.4140 773.327.7711 773.477.8533

Chicago Downtown-Near north

Baton Show Lounge 436 N. Clark DS 312.644.5269 Club 720 720 N. Wells MS, D, 4 312.787.8720 Crimson Lounge 333 N. Dearborn MS, D, R 312.923.2473 Downtown Bar & Lounge 440 N State G 312.464.1400 Dragon Lady Lounge 3188 N. Elston 773.267.1970 Excalibur/Vision 632 N. Dearborn MS, D, 4 312.266.1944 Funky Buddha 728 W. Grand Ave. MS, D 312.666.1695 House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn MS, LM, 4 312.923.2000 Krush/Prop House 1657 N. Elston G&L, D, 4 773.486.2390 Nikki 1543 N. Kingsbury St. MS, D, 4 312.857.5009 Second Story Bar 157 E. Ohio G, V 312.923.9536 Sound Bar 226 W. Ontario MS, D, 4 312.787-4480 Spy Bar 646 N. Franklin MS, D, 4 312.587.8779 Underground 56 W. Illinois MS, D, 4 312.644.7600 Vibe 1543 N. Kingsbury MS, D, 4 312.266.1900

Chicago Northside

The Anvil 1137 W. Granville G, V @mosphere 5355 N. Clark G&L, V, GB Big Chicks 5024 N. Sheridan G&L, D, R

773.973.0006 773.784.1100 773.728.5511

G------------------------------------------------------------------Gay Male L---------------------------------------------------------------------Lesbian G&L-------------------------------------------------Gay Male & Lesbian D-------------------------------------------------------------------Dancing V-----------------------------------------------------------------------Video GB-------------------------------------------------------------Go Go Boys DS--------------------------------------------------------------Drag Show R--------------------------------------------------------Restaurant, Food

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Chicago Northside CONTINUED

Crew 4804 N. Broadway G&L, V, R 773.784.2739 Davenport’s 1383 N. Milwaukee G&L, LM 773.278.1830 Debonair Social Club 1575 N. MilwaukeeAve. MS, D 773.227.7990 Fat Cat 4849 N. Broadway MS, R 773.506.3100 Green Dolphin St. 2200 N. Ashland G&L, D, LM, 4 773.395.0066 Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway MS, LM, 4 773.878.5552 In Fine Spirits 5420 N Clark MS, R 773.334.9463 Jackhammer 6406 N. Clark G, D, V, GB, LM, 4 773.743.5772 Joi de Vine 1744 W. Balmoral L, R 773.989.6846 Kinetic Playground 1113 W. LawrenceMS, D, LM, 4 773.769.5483 Marty’s 1511 W. Balmoral G&L 773.561.6425 Mary’s Attic 5400 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Parlour On Clark 6341 N. Clark 773.564.9274 Mary’s RecRoom 5402 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Scot’s 1829 W. Montrose G&L 773.528.3253 SoFo Bar 4923 N. Clark G 773.784.7636 T’s 5025 N. Clark G&L, R 773.784.6000 The Call 1547 W Bryn Mawr G&L, D, DS, V, LM 773.334.2525 The Glenwood 6962 N Glenwood G 773.764.7363 Touché 6412 N. Clark G, V, LF, 4 773.465.7400 Uptown Lounge 1136 W. Lawrence 773.878.1136

Chicago Southside

Club Escape 1530 E. 75th G&L, D Escapades 6301 S. Harlem G&L, D, V, 4 Inn Exile 5758 W. 65th G&L, D, V Jeffrey Pub 7041 S. Jeffrey G&L, D, V, 4

Chicago Suburbs

773.667.6454 773.229.0886 773.582.3510 773.363.8555

Hideaway 7301 W. Roosevelt Forest Park G, D, V, DS, GB Club Krave 13126 S. Western Blue Island G&L, D, V, DS, GB, 4 Hunters 1932 E. Higgins Elk Grove Village G, D, V, GB, 4 Mission 209 E. Chicago Downtown Elgin G&L, D, V Encompass 24215 Rush St. Lake Station, IN G&L, D, R, DS Velvet Rope 728 Lake St Oak Park G&L, D, V, R

Adult Entertainment

Banana Video 4923 N. Clark G, BK Bijou Theater 1349 N. Wells G, GB, BK Man’s Country 5017 N. Clark G, GB, BH Steamworks 3246 N. Halsted G, BH, FC The Ram 35111/2 N. Halsted G, BK, D

708.771.4459 708.597.8379 847.439.8840 847.488.0320 219.962.4640 708.358.8840

773.561.8322 312.943.5397 773.878.2069 773.929.6080 773.525.9528

4-------------------------------------------------------------Open til 4am MS--------------------------------------------------------Mostly Straight LF---------------------------------------------------------Leather / Fetish W-------------------------------------------------------------------Western LM--------------------------------------------------Live Music / Cabaret BH--------------------------------------------------------------Bath House BK----------------------------------Adult Book, Booth & Video Store FC-------------------------------------------------------------Fitness Club