Make It Better - July/August 2018

P O W E R F U L. P O S I T I V E. C O N N E C T I O N S.

THE VOTES ARE IN!

BEST 2018 of

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT • BEAUTY • CELEBRATIONS DINING • EDUCATION • FITNESS & RECREATION • HOME & DESIGN KIDS • PHILANTHROPY • SERVICES • SHOPPING

214 WINNERS INSIDE

#THE LIFE WE SHARE LI FE I S A LWAYS SW EET ER W IT H ICE CR EA M

Winner of the Best of 2018: “Best Real Estate Company.�

Thank you to Make it Better and our supporters!

T HANK YO U F OR VOTing

BEST OF 2018 - DESTINATION

P L AN YO U R N E XT E XP E R I EN C E AT

VISITLAKEGENEVA.COM

Contents

J U LY/AU GUST 2018

Features 41 Best of 2018 We present the winners!

52 Your Ultimate Guide to the Lakefront The beaches you need to visit this summer.

6 J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

TOM MCDONALD PHOTOGRAPHY @TMCD.CHI

52

Contents Your Chicago

31 Currents A cool cocktail recipe, pro grill pointers, and lots more.

34 Beauty Your annual summer sunscreen PSA. 36 Reading List A local photographer’s patriotic project.

38 Finance Ace advice from our 2018 Money, Values, & Impact summit.

Destinations 73 Go An inside guide to a trio of Chicagoland neighborhoods.

Out & About

73

84

77 Calendar Things to do and see in Chicago and beyond.

82 Theater Editor’s Picks: the hottest shows in town.

84 Dining Guide The very best restaurants around.

93 Better Makers Our community champions and their incredible impact.

27

Chicago Home 99 Backstory A backyard built for entertaining in Winnetka.

IN EVERY ISSUE 14 Editor’s Letter 18 POV 22 New in Town 25 Connect 102 Reflections

WINNER, WINNER There were so many favorites this year that we handed out two blue ribbons in many categories: one in the city and one in the suburbs. Turn to page 41 for all 214.

8 J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

99

FROM TOP LEFT: ANJALI PINTO; RM CHAMPAGNE SALON; HEATHER BLACKMORE; COVER: MARIUSZ_PRUSACZYK

27 Fashion Summer’s wild western trend.

J U LY/AU GUST 2018

when only the BEST will do...

Distinguished Properties, Exceptional Clients, Dedicated Agent.

Put the BEST to work for you.

BEST REAL ESTATE BROKER NORTH SHORE** **2016 & 2013 MAKE IT BETTER MAGAZINE

#1 REAL ESTATE BROKER WILMETTE* *2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 & 2012 (ALL BROKERAGES)

84 7. 2 2 6 . 57 9 4 | LO R I N EUS C HEL . C O M | LO R I . N EUS C HE L@AT PROPERT IES.COM

6 2 2 OA K ST R EET, WINN ET K A $2,125,000 | 6 BED | 5.1 BATH

*#1 Individual Broker Wilmette refers to sales/volume provided by Broker Metrics, reflecting 1/1/12-12/31/16 production.

Stop looking, start finding® atproperties.com

Honolulu excites the senses.

T he Kahala refreshes the soul.

MAKEITBETTER.COM

FOUNDER & CHIEF VISIONARY OFFICER Susan B. Noyes

Come discover the restful, restorative powers of Honolulu’s most desirable beachfront resort. The gracious spirit of The Kahala is always yours to share.

Editorial EDITOR IN CHIEF Brooke McDonald EXECUTIVE EDITOR Cara Sullivan DIGITAL MANAGING EDITOR Anna Carlson DINING EDITOR Julie Chernoff SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Macaire Douglas ASSOCIATE EDITOR Emily Stone EDITORIAL INTERN Maddy Sims COPY EDITOR Cynthia Rubin CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danielle Braff, Tate Gunnerson, Robert Loerzel, Danielle McLimore, Susan Pasternak, Nicole Schnitzler

Art ART DIRECTOR Tonya Sutfin DESIGNER Brian Von Kaenel PHOTOGRAPHER Todd Rosenberg

Connect With Us GOT FEEDBACK? susan@makeitbetter.com WANT TO ADVERTISE? michellemorris@makeitbetter.com

Time is precious. Spend it graciously.

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C opy r ig ht 2 018 by M a ke It B et t er L L C . A l l r ig ht s r e s er ve d .

1 . 8 0 0 . 3 6 7 . 2 5 2 5 | K a h a la Res or t .com

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6/12/18 2:01 PM

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PUBLISHER Michelle O’Rourke Morris

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6/14/18 10:27 AM

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Please send letters to editorial@makeitbetter.com.

Be sure to include your full name, city, state and phone number. Make It Better reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and style.

Editor’s Letter

I

LOVE CHICAGO, I REALLY DO, but I’d

be lying if I said I didn’t hate it sometimes, too (c’mon, you know what I mean). For me, the animosity starts to creep in around late February, when the thrill of winter is long forgotten and everything’s just...gray. And slushy.

But then, before we know it, the absolute greatest time to be a Chicagoan arrives: summer, when the lake turns a sparkling shade of blue that rivals any ocean, the beaches fill with people, and the city just feels so alive. And for three fleeting months of perfection, we’re willing to put up with a

whole lot (read: winter), because summer in Chicago is better than summer in any other city in the world, and there’s nothing anyone could say to convince us otherwise.

This issue is all about celebrating exactly that—the absolute best this city has to offer. We love our annual “Best Of ” competition more than just about anything we do here at Make It Better, because we get to witness the excitement and passion of our audience as they lift up the businesses and organizations they treasure most.

This year, for our “Best of 2018” awards, we changed our approach and opened up the nomination and voting process to be exclusively write-in—making it anyone’s game—and received 30 percent more votes than ever before. Turn to page 41 to read about the 214 businesses and organizations our readers have named the Best of 2018 in both Chicago and the suburbs. This year’s winners are a diverse group of old favorites and übercool newcomers that could well become your new go-tos.

Celebrating the best of Chicago doesn’t stop there. In every issue, we highlight the travel destinations currently sparking our wanderlust, but when we were preparing this one, we realized if there is ever a time to put away that passport and stay close to home, it’s summer! So trade in that suitcase for a stocked picnic basket and hit one of Chicago’s best beaches (p. 52). We did the legwork to single out the perfect stretch of sand for every type of beachgoer.

Then, because we want you to spend all summer exploring and finding new ways to experience our city, Executive Editor Cara Sullivan asked influential Chicagoans from the city and ‘burbs to take us through an ideal day in their hoods. Turn to page 73 for three perfect Chicagoarea “daycations” (including one in my hometown of Hinsdale).

We hope this Best of Chicago issue, our annual favorite, helps you remember all that’s so sweet about our home all year long. We also highly recommend that you hang on to it and pull out that beach story when you need a reminder come February.

Brooke McDonald, Editor in Chief

WINNERS’ CIRCLE

Life’s a beach for my son Jude at “Best Midwest Destination” Lake Geneva’s Riviera Beach (read more on p. 56).

14 J U LY/AU G US T 20 18 M A K E IT B E T T E R

Tony and Anthony Perry and their team at “Best Builder” A. Perry Homes and “Best Interior Designer” Ilene Chase (p. 48) worked tirelessly to rebuild my home after a flood destroyed two-thirds of it last year.

TOP: COLIN LYONS BOTTOM: BROOKE MCDONALD; ERICA BARRACA

Here, three of the many Best Of champions I’m celebrating this year.

INSPIRED ARCHITECTURE B U I LT W I T H I N T E G R I T Y

REYNOLDS ARCHITECTURE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

FOR A C O N S U LTAT I O N O R TO L E A R N A BO U T R E Y N O L D S A R C H I T E C T U R E C O N TAC T D OU G R E Y NO L D S 8 4 7 . 5 0 1 . 3 1 5 0 R E Y N O L D S A R C H I T E C T U R E . C O M

BOTTOM DECK. TOP DECK. ALL DECKED OUT.

Chicago’s First Lady Cruises offers everything you’ll need for a one-of-a-kind experience: best-in-class service, elegant interior salons, magnificent open-air city views, and more.

Choose from six unique, private yachts that perfectly suit your party’s needs.

CRUISECHICAGO.COM

|

847.358.1330

|

CHICAGO RIVERWALK

|

112 E. WACKER DRIVE

IN TROD U C IN G TH E L ATEST BREAKT H R O UG H I N OUR QUEST FO R B E T T E R Northwestern Medicine is proud to introduce the latest breakthrough in our quest to bring world-class care closer to where you live and work. The new Lake Forest Hospital. Anchored by the #1 hospital in Illinois, you have access to the highest-ranked Cardiology, Neurology and Oncology programs in the state. * More than a hospital, it’s part of an integrated, academic health system.

Because what makes us better, makes you better.ÂŽ

nm.org/lfh *

Northwestern Memorial Hospital by U.S. News and World Report, 2017-2018

POV

Your Letters

Here’s what some of our Best of 2018 winners had to say when they found out they won: Thank you so much for this incredible opportunity. We are so honored to receive this distinction and so grateful to Make It Better for your continued investment in the Chicago not-for-profit sector.

—KATHERINE DREHER, BRIGHT PROMISES FOUNDATION

Founded in 2000, Complete Travel and Cruises has been committed to providing the most cost-effective, convenient travel plans for our clients. We look forward to serving you!

—JEANNE LANGLO, COMPLETE TRAVEL AND CRUISES, INC.

We are honored to win Best of 2018 for both the Interior and Exterior Painting categories, and we are proud that we are the only company to win the Painting category every year it has been on the ballot!

—STEVE HESTER, HESTER PAINTING & DECORATING

Flowers by Katie Ford has been a blessing in every sense of the word, and I am full of gratitude for the support the North Shore has shown me.

—KATIE FORD

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Your comments may be edited for clarity and brevity. Send letters to info@makeitbetter.com.

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6/13/18 4:49 PM

Summer at the People’s Pier Aon Summer Fireworks Now – Sept. 1 Wednesdays, at 9:30pm Saturdays, at 10:15pm Live on the Lake!

Now – Sept. 2 Wednesdays – Sundays Rush Hour Fitness Presented by LifeStart Now – Aug. 28 Rush Hour Workouts Tuesdays, at 6pm Wave Wall Sunset Yoga Tuesdays, at 7:30pm

Water Flicks Presented in partnership with the Chicago International Film Festival Now – Aug. 20 Mondays, at 7pm Wave Wall Wax Now – Sept. 1 Saturdays, 2pm – 4pm Wiggleworms Presented in partnership with Old Town School of Folk Music Now – Aug. 24 Wednesdays & Fridays 10am & 11am

This summer, fill every day with wonder.

There’s something new to discover every day at Navy Pier. Enjoy iconic landmarks like the Centennial Wheel and Polk Bros Park. Ride the waves aboard one of more than 20 daily boat cruises, delve into a world of shopping experiences or grab a bite at one of our amazing restaurants. And this summer, explore a full calendar of free programming including concerts, art installations and amazing cultural events.

Discover what’s happening today at navypier.org SP ECIA L T HA NKS TO O UR NAVY PI ER PARTNE RS:

Arlen Music Productions ELEGANT · FUN · INNOVATIVE

KEN ARLEN EVOLUTION ORCHESTRA

.

GOLD COAST ROOM

.

DRAKE HOTEL

Arlen Music offers a full roster of exciting dance bands for weddings and fundraisers, as well as smaller ensembles perfect for ceremonies, cocktail hours and corporate events.

2017 2018

Contact Tim Clark today to start planning your event | tim@arlenmusic.com | 847.869.8826

THRIVE PLEASE JOIN US! The Woman’s Board of Children’s Home & Aid 98th Annual September Gala September 7th, 2018 at 6:30 pm Union League Club of Chicago Co-Chairs Mrs. Linda Campbell and Mrs. Peg Corboy 2018 Pauline K. Palmer Awardee Liz Connelly Head of Healthcare, Higher Ed. and Not-For-Profit Banking JPMorgan Chase To reserve your spot or for more information, please contact the Children’s Home & Aid Woman’s Board liaison at 312-424-6820 or visit us at www.childrenshomeandaid.org/gala2018

Children’s Home & Aid partners with children, youth and families whose potential is at risk to create hope, opportunity, and bright futures.

This Ad made possible by the generous support of

New in Town MADDY SIMS

fun cocktail selection, this hip new spot in Old Town is a one-stop shop for a fun night out. Themed evening specials include the “Bourbon & Boots Party” on Thursdays and the “Taco & Tequila TimeWarp” on Tuesdays. theoptimachicago.com

Architecture Foundation has opened a brand-new center on the Chicago River.

Situated just above the dock where the famed Chicago’s First Lady Cruises depart, the space showcases some of the most significant and famous skyscrapers plus a customdesigned lecture hall. architecture.org

› Odyssey Chicago

The Optima

E ATS

› Dutch and Doc’s This casual American brasserie opened its doors in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in late May. The bi-level spot offers lunch on weekdays, brunch on the weekends, and dinner seven days a week. With a selection of pastas (rumor has it the macand-cheese is divine), hearty sandwiches, and refreshing salads, it’s the perfect place to stop before a Cubs game. dutchanddocs.com

› Le Sud Head down to Roscoe Village for a taste of Southern France at Le Sud, scheduled to open mid-July. After she’d run two successful

Asian restaurants (Koi in Evanston and Chen’s in Chicago), a trip to Southern France inspired owner Sandy Chen to open this casual neighborhood restaurant. The space boasts two levels, each one with a bar, as well as a gorgeous rooftop—just in time for summer weather.

2301 W. Roscoe St., 312-884-9469

SHOPPING

› B&B Italia Multibrand Store and WPA Showroom Anyone hoping for an authentic Italian shopping experience in the heart of Chicago—complete with brands like Maxalto and Arclinea—is in for a treat with this debut

retail space, which opened in mid-June at the WPA Showroom. wpachicago.com

› Target Tarjay lovers, rejoice! The popular chain is set to open new small-format stores all over the country in order to meet the needs of local customers in smaller urban spaces— and one of them debuts in Wicker Park at the end of this month. 1644 W. Division St.

The complex features a swank rooftop area with a gym and yoga studio, plus a pool, hot tub, fire pit, and grill stations. addisonandclark.com

River The super-luxe Odyssey Chicago River makes its debut cruise this month, offering a cool new experience to townies and tourists alike. In addition to a delicious brunch, lunch, or dinner, the single-level, glassenclosed boat features 360-degree views of Chicago’s architecture. odysseycruises.com/ chicago

E XPE RIE NCES

› The Optima With

› Chicago Architecture

music, modern American fare, and a

Center Calling all design fanatics: The Chicago

› Sophy Hotel This luxury boutique hotel in Hyde Park— conveniently located near the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry—offers a chill, sophisticated alternative to the downtown hotel scene. Filled with eclectic art displays, leather-bound books, geometric motifs, and cozy fireplaces, it’s a hip new addition to Chicago’s ever-growing list of accommodations. sophyhotel.com

Sophy Hotel

RE AL ESTATE

› The Residences at Addison and Clark Set to open in August, this brand-new luxury building in Wrigleyville makes it possible to live right next to Wrigley Field.

New in Town is an ongoing bulletin on new businesses in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. To be considered for future listings, email anna@makeitbetter.com.

22 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

ANNIE

F L A N A G A N N O R T H

S H O R E

R E A L

E S T A T E

FEATURED OFFERINGS...

1363 HACKBERRY | WINNETKA

$3,425,000

139 DEWINDT | WINNETKA

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YOUR REFERRAL IS MY GREATEST COMPLIMENT.

ANNIE FLANAGAN 847.867.9236 Annie.Flanagan@cbexchange.com COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE|568 LINCOLN AVENUE|WINNETKA, IL 60093|ColdwellBankerHomes.com The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

FANS AT THE CUBS RALLY AND PARADE With a crowd that big, it meant a sea of diehard Cubs fans and not a whole lot of non-believers. In fact, we see zero. Just like the amount you’ll pay in ATM fees with Cubs Checking.

PAY

ATM FEES WITH

CUBS CHECKING

Use any ATM nationwide and we’ll refund the fee!1 Only $100 required to open.

GET A $100 BONUS

2

when you open a new Cubs Checking account by 9/30/18 and enroll in e-statements and complete a direct deposit within the qualification period*

CHICAGO’S BANK

TM

Legacy Partner of the wintrust.com/cubs

Banker instructions: Enter offer code WFC00ADCC100

Banking products provided Wintrust Financial Corp. banks MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated. Chicago Cubs trademarks and copyrights proprietary to Chicago Cubs. Used with permission. *The bank must receive the direct deposit for it to be “complete”. The “qualification period” is two consecutive calendar months following the month of account opening. 1. The bank does not charge its customers a monthly card usage fee.

No transaction charge at any ATM in the Allpoint, MoneyPass, or Sum surcharge-free networks. Other banks outside the network may impose ATM surcharges at their machines. Surcharge fees assessed by owners of other ATMs outside the network will be reimbursed. Reimbursement does not include the 1.10% International Service fee charged for certain foreign transactions conducted outside the continental United States. 2. Limit one per customer. Current Wintrust checking customers and employees of Wintrust Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries are ineligible. $100 deposit bonus is IRS 1099-INT reportable. $100 deposit bonus applies only to new Cubs Checking customers. $100 deposit bonus will be deposited into the Cubs Checking account within the subsequent calendar month following the qualification period.

CONNECT WITH US TOP GRAM

You devoured our conversation with Girl and the Goat’s Stephanie Izard in the May/June Dining issue. Read the entire interview, in which Izard opens up about becoming a mom, slaying the Chicago restaurant scene, and penning a brand-new cookbook, at makeitbetter.com/ izard Want your photo to be featured in print?

Tag us on Instagram @makeitbetterns

The BEST Online Stories Right Now 1 BEST NEW BURGERS Every year, Dining Editor Julie Chernoff tracks down the best burgers in Chicago (hard work, but someone’s gotta do it!). This year’s list did not disappoint.

From Cherry Circle Room’s CCR Prime Triple Cheese Burger to Hakka Bakka’s Vegetarian Masala Tikki Burger, learn which patties are worth pursuing at makeitbetter.com/ burgers2018 2 BEST BRUNCH SPOTS If you’d like to see lazy Saturday mornings with lemon-ricotta pancakes or fried oyster Benedict in your future, you’re in luck—just hop on over to makeitbetter .com/brunch2018 and start mapping out your summer breakfast tour.

3 BEST BEAUTY PRODUCTS “Sephora

isn’t overwhelming at all,” said no one ever. Ensure your next trip down the beauty aisle is a success by arming yourself with our pro-vetted list of lotions and potions. Read all about them at makeit better.com/products 4 BEST WORKOUT TIPS We’ve all been there: The alarm is blaring, but you’d rather hit the snooze button than the gym. To help you get back into the zone, we asked pros for advice on fighting fitness fatigue.

Crib their tips at makeit better.com/motivation 5 BEST BOOKS IN TRANSLATION Just when you think you’ve read everything, we’re here with a list of the latest and greatest pageturners from around the globe. Get the rundown at makeitbetter.com/ translation

PURGE, BABY, PURGE!

LUCY HEWITT

Give Something Away Day: JULY 15 Visit makeitbetter.com/ donate for a list of local spots accepting donations of toys, food, clothing, electronics, and more.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 25

the LOOK P RO M OTI O N

DREAM YOUR DRESS TO LIFE Whether you’re a bride, mother of, or just want a spectacular gown to spruce up your wardrobe, Mira Couture is where dream dresses come true!

Browse through their collection of designer gowns or have their team of in-house designers and couture dressmakers vivify your inner fashionista.

MIRA COUTURE

1 East Delaware Place Mezzanine Level Chicago, IL 312.255.1699 miracouture.com

SUMMER SWAG North Shore jewelry designer, Rachel Olesker, is constantly-yet subtlyreinventing her line while never straying far from her funky, earthy aesthetic.

The result: statement-making pieces that keep her loyal following wondering what’s next.

RACHEL OLESKER JEWELRY

rachelolesker.com | info@rachelolesker.com 773.919.0102

FRESHEN UP!

WHAT IS A “GREAT BRA WARDROBE”?

Having a great bra wardrobe simply means that you have the pieces you need for the clothes you own. For most women, that includes strapless bras for spaghetti-strap or cold-shoulder dresses and tops; plunge bras for anything with a deep v; push-ups to add some extra oomph to roomy styles; bras with pretty straps that you actually want people to see; underwire sports bras to prevent that smooshed look at the gym, and silicone bras for backless dresses and jumpsuits.

CHANTILLY LACE

Plaza del Lago, Shop #8 1515 Sheridan Road Wilmette, IL 847.256.8077 c-lace.com

26 J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

Look no further than Mandarine for a wide variety of home furniture, accessories, art and gifts.

Unique finds to update every area in your home.

Full service design team can help you get the look you have been dreaming of!

MANDARINE

1820 Glenview Road Glenview, IL 224.432.5906 mandarinehome.com

Your Chicago / FASHION

A Little Bit Country

Pony up to one of the season’s wildest trends by roping western-inspired accessories into your warm-weather wardrobe—and riding them straight through fall. CARA SULLIVAN 1. For the ultimate in chic, effortless style, pair a classic white tee with this beaded scarf necklace.

Mignonne Gavigan Kinsey Scarf Necklace in pink, $425, Elements Chicago, 706 N. Wells St., 312-642-6574

2

2. Think of this turquoise-studded stunner as waist-accentuating jewelry. For max impact, keep everything else sleek and simple.

Prada Embellished Leather Waist Belt, $920, net-a-porter.com

1

3

3. With a denim-blue hue that’s perfect for summer and suede that feels right for fall, this satchel is as versatile as they come. Altuzarra Ghianda Studded Suede Saddle Bag, $2,395, neimanmarcus.com 4. Take your circle bag game to the next level with trendy fringe. Salar Lea Fringe Bag Bling in pink, $632, salar.it 5. You heard it here first: Feathers are the new tassel. Simon Alcantara Feather Earrings, $325, simonalcantara.com 6. These neutral booties add western flair to denim and dresses alike. Isabel Marant Etoile Dicker suede ankle boots, $560, netaporter.com

4

6

JORGE GERA

5

MEET OUR FASHION EDITOR Allow us to introduce you to Tracy Clifford, one of Chicago’s top stylists and the woman responsible for picking the gorgeous pieces on our fashion pages. Learn more about her at tracycliffordstyle.com

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 27

PROMOTION

Getting Patients Back To Healthy, Pain-Free Living

Dr. Lalit Puri

Dr. Jason Koh

Dr. Lalit Puri & Dr. Jason Koh

F

NORTHSHORE ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE

professiona l at h letes to weekend w a r r ior s, serious runners and busy people running errands, joint pain can get in the way. NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute is using the latest treatment techniques and comprehensive coordinated care to help patients reclaim their lives.

NorthShore provides a full spectrum of services for every orthopaedic challenge.

Their integrated team brings shared expertise in a wide range of specialties, including Back & Spine, Sports Medicine, Hand & Upper Extremity, Foot & Ankle, Podiatry, Pediatrics, Trauma, and Arthritis Care & Joint Replacement.

NorthShore’s sports medicine expertise is particularly robust. NorthShore University HealthSystem is the Official Healthcare Partner of the Chicago Blackhawks. Their physicians also treat the Chicago Bears and are on the field at every Bears game. Those same orthopaedic specialists treat NorthShore patients.

OR E V ERYON E FROM

28 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

From the latest nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments to computer-and robotassisted surgery, NorthShore explores every option for each patient. The team works with patients to precisely diagnose the source of pain and provide the optimal treatment plan for long-term recovery.

“We’re pioneering advanced techniques at NorthShore,” says Dr. Jason Koh, Director of the NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute and an internationally recognized sports medicine expert in knee, shoulder and elbow reconstruction. “One exciting thing we’re doing right now is regenerating patients’ own cartilage to repair their damaged knees.”

Specialists are also using 3D printing to create precise anatomical models that perfectly replicate a patient’s unique anatomy. This enables surgeons to plan complex surgeries more precisely.

Joint replacement is another important area of expertise. People are living longer today and looking forward to remaining active and physically fit as they age But joint damage can slow them down, whether it is caused by arthritis, injury or years of wear and tear. NorthShore’s orthopaedic surgeons are leaders in total hip and knee replacement, utilizing the latest in arthritis treatment, advanced surgical technology and care options.

Recovery is a vital part of the postsurgery process. Specialists precisely tailor pain management to each patient’s needs. Patients get moving the first day to ensure quicker, long-term recovery.

To learn more call NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute at (855) 929-0100 or visit northshore.org/ortho today.

“[We’re] regenerating patients’ own cartilage to repair their damaged knees.” —Dr. Jason Koh

Get back to reaching.

Orthopaedic care for what’s next.

At NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute, we’re regenerating knee cartilage to help runners get back to testing their limits.

The same doctors who treat professional athletes take care of you, exploring every option, from the latest nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments to computer- and robot-assisted surgery. Just as important, we create a coordinated treatment plan, including physical therapy, to get you back to doing the things you love.

For urgent orthopaedic issues, take advantage of our Walk-In Clinics—no appointment needed. northshore.org/ortho (855) 929-0100

#DIVA We l c o m e t o t h e G i l d e d A g e

JOHN SING ER SARG ENT & CHIC AGO’ S G ILDED AG E July 1–September 30

Lead Corporate Sponsors:

Lead individual sponsorship is provided by Ann and Samuel M. Mencoff. Lead foundation support is generously contributed by The Chauncey and Marion Deering McCormick Family Foundation. Major support is provided by the Shure Charitable Trust. Additional funding is contributed by Patricia Hyde, The Suzanne and Wesley M. Dixon Exhibition Fund, and an anonymous donor. Annual support for Art Institute exhibitions is provided by the Exhibitions Trust: an anonymous donor; Neil Bluhm and the Bluhm Family Charitable Foundation; Jay Franke and David Herro; Kenneth Griffin; Caryn and King Harris, The Harris Family Foundation; Liz and Eric Lefkofsky; Robert M. and Diane v.S. Levy; Ann and Samuel M. Mencoff; Usha and Lakshmi N. Mittal; Sylvia Neil and Dan Fischel; Thomas and Margot Pritzker; Anne and Chris Reyes; Betsy Bergman Rosenfield and Andrew M. Rosenfield; Cari and Michael J. Sacks; and the Earl and Brenda Shapiro Foundation.

John Singer Sargent. Mrs. George Swinton (Elizabeth Ebsworth) (detail), 1897. Wirt D. Walker Collection.

Your Chicago T H E P E O P L E . T H E P L AC E S . T H E C AU S E S .

PLAYING FAVORITES

DERMOT KENNEDY

The Dublin-based singer-songwriter is touring through the states this summer, bringing his impassioned vocals and poetic lyrics to Lollapalooza on August 3. Here, three spots he always hits when he’s in town.

BY NICOLE SCHNITZLER

1

FOR DINNER: MAPLE AND ASH Last time we were passing through Chicago on tour, Zach Miller invited us to Maple & Ash for dinner, which was incredible. When you’ve been on the road for two months straight, meals like that are few and far between!

Mapleandash.com

FOR A PINT: SOLDIER FIELD Last year, Kieran (who plays bass in the band) and I went to Soldier Field for the season opener. The atmosphere was crazy—it’s definitely the best place I’ve ever had a beer in Chicago. Soldierfield.net

FOR A SHOW: THALIA HALL We were lucky enough to play here on our last U.S. tour. It’s stunning, and it was a real honor to get to do a show there. Thaliahallchicago.com

2

LUCY FOSTER

3

Can’t make it down to Grant Park? Catch Kennedy at Bottom Lounge in the West Loop on August 2. Visit lollapalooza.com/artist/dermot-kennedy for details.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 31

Your Chicago / CURRENTS

D R I N K IT

Breezy Bourbon

BIG BEND 1.5 oz bonded bourbon .5 oz apple cider .5 oz lemon juice and zest . 25 oz crème de cassis

1 tbsp sugar 1.5 cups of ice Directions: Blend all ingredients together on medium speed for 20 seconds. Yep—that’s it.

FUN FACT

On July 1, 1874, the Lincoln Park Zoo made its first purchase: a bear cub, which cost just $10.

Now, 144 years later, it has over 200 species and 1,100 animals (and that’s not counting fish and insects).

M A S T E R IT

The BBQ Pit

Windy City Smokeout returns to Chicago July 13 to 15 for a weekend of barbecue, beer, and country music (windycitysmokeout.com). With more than 40,000 guests expected to attend the fifth annual celebration, it’s safe to say that fest co-founder and Bub City chef Doug Psaltis knows a thing or two about entertaining.

Here, the BBQ legend spills four secrets for surefire summertime grilling.

BUY CHICKEN LEGS

The why is simple: It’s really hard to get these bad boys wrong. Give them a good rub, smoke them for about 75 minutes (keep reading for more on all that), and then bring up the temperature for a few minutes to ensure a nice crispy skin.

DIY A DRY RUB

Combine salt, brown sugar, onion and garlic powders, sweet paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne in a bowl (don’t worry about measurements —you can’t mess this up). For extra smokiness, add a dash of chipotle powder or smoked paprika. Rub the meat early in the day to act as a dry cure, then come back and do your grilling.

UP THE SMOKE FACTOR

Think of the grill as a basket hanging over a fire. Rather than going for a great char on the meat, aim to infuse the meat with smoke (which, in this case, is synonymous with flavor).

SIMPLIFY THE SAUCE

Assuming you’ve whipped up a dry rub, there’s no need to buy bottled sauce. Just add a little water or oil to the aforementioned spice mix, then use it to baste the meat about an hour after you start grilling, with 15 minutes left to go.

W IT N E S S IT

SPECIAL OLYMPICS TURNS 50 This incredible organi-

zation has been providing year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities since 1968, when the first international games were held at Soldier Field. The same location—among others around the city—will host the organization’s semicentennial from July 17 to 21. Don’t miss the Eternal Flame spectacle on July 20, during which a team of runners will carry the torch along a four-mile course to Soldier Field. For more information or to donate, run, or volunteer, visit sochicago.org 32 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: LONESOME ROSE; JEFF MARINI; SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Crisp lagers, refreshing coupes of rosé, herbinfused hits with splashes of gin or vodka—we all know the usual warm-weather suspects. But whiskey? Enter the Big Bend, a frozen concoction of bonded bourbon, apple cider, and crème de cassis from Chicago’s Lonesome Rose (lonesomerose .com), where it pairs up swimmingly with clever Tex-Mex staples like grilled cheese quesadillas and swordfish ceviche.

Here’s how to master one at home.

Your Chicago / BEAUTY

Sunscreen Goals

We asked one of Chicago’s top docs to slather us with his best advice.

W

E’VE SPENT H A LF the

kids and babies, but they’re said to be better for beaches and marine life, unlike some recent findings with chemical sunscreens,” he says.

year longing for—no, make that lusting for—sunny summer days, and they’re finally, blessedly, upon us. But as glorious as they may feel, those UV rays can be punishing, reminding us that we need to be on guard for ourselves and our families around the clock. To help ensure we’re sunning as safely as possible, heed these tips from Dr. Meyer Horn, clinical instructor of dermatology at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine and Medical Director of Dermatology and Aesthetics in Chicago.

2. Think 30

Horn suggests an SPF of 30, explaining that (perhaps surprisingly) there’s no need to go much higher than that. “Anything above 30 will offer a nominal difference in protection,” he says.

3. Apply Like a Pro

If you have the tendency to glop on half a tube of sunscreen in one sitting, relax—you can protect your entire body with the amount you’d need to fill a shot glass. The key? “Be sure to reapply every 60 to 90 minutes,” says Horn.

1. Do Your Research

The first choice is deciding between chemical and mineral sunscreens: “Chemical 4. Be All-Inclusive sunscreens contain safe, com“Don’t forget about the tops DR. MEYER HORN pounded chemicals that absorb of your feet and the backs of harmful rays of sun before they can cause any your hands,” he says. “Women are, in general, damage, whereas mineral sunscreens are mostly good about remembering to apply sunscreen comprised of either zinc oxide or titanium dioxto their face and neck, but they often forget ide, which provide protection by reflecting the their chest, which is an issue because it ends up sun,” he says. If you have the option, reach for seeing a lot of premature damage that out-ages mineral. “Not only are they more popular for their face.” Noted.

Know Your ABCs

Here’s a sobering statistic: According to the Melanoma Research Alliance, one person in the United States dies of melanoma every hour. But diligent sunscreen use and annual screenings with a dermatologist can greatly reduce your chances of developing the disease—as can self-examinations of your moles between visits. Here’s what to look for.

A

Asymmetry Benign moles are symmetrical, while melanoma lesions are irregular in shape.

B

Borders Noncancerous moles have smooth, even borders; cancerous ones are difficult to define.

34 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

C

Color Healthy moles are brown or tan, whereas malignant spots are often multi-hued.

D

Diameter Melanoma lesions tend to be greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser).

E

Evolution Any change in the color, size, or texture of a mole warrants a doctor’s visit.

NICOLE SCHNITZLER

5. Spray Sparingly

Mists may be convenient, but they aren’t the best defense against sun damage. “If you use a spray, you have to apply it close to your body and then massage it into the skin,” says Horn, who prefers lotions because they’re easier to apply without missing any spots. “I tell patients to use sprays if they want to have something for a quick reapplication during a day outside, but to do a base coat of lotion first.”

Shopping List

Save yourself from the stress of the sunscreen aisle by zeroing in on one of these derm-approved brands.

EltaMD “Their facial and body sunscreens are more cosmetically elegant than most other products that contain zinc oxide because their zinc is micronized, meaning it doesn’t look white and pasty,” says Horn.

BUY IT: Elta MD UV Facial BroadSpectrum SPF 30+, $26, dermstore.com Blue Lizard “In my opinion, this is the single most protective product on the market—it’s my ‘trapped on a desert island with no shade’ sunscreen,’” he says.

BUY IT: Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Kids, $29, bluelizard.net ISDIN “If you’ve had skin cancer or have an extensive history of sunburn, tanning bed use, or sun damage, this stuff is for you,” says Horn.

“It protects against sunburn while helping to repair DNA damage from previous exposure.”

BUY IT: ISDIN Actinic Care Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+, $50, skinfo.com

JOIN THE FIGHT FOR ALZHEIMER’S FIRST SURVIVOR.

At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, people carry flowers representing their connection to Alzheimer’s — a disease that currently has no cure. But what if one day there was a flower for Alzheimer’s first survivor? What if there were millions of them? Help make that beautiful day happen by joining us for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease. Register today at alz.org/walk.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s®-Chicago Sunday, Oct. 28 North Shore Naperville Fox Valley Lake County

Saturday, Sept. 15 Sunday, Sept. 16 Saturday, Sept. 22 Saturday, Oct. 6

Your Chicago / READING LIST

Just in time for Independence Day, Chicago photographer Mariah Karson’s new book American Legion is a revealing look at legion outposts and the vets who are members.

MIB: What sparked your interest in American Legions and Legionaries?

MK: The project started in 2013 when Stan Klein, the director of Firecat Projects (Chicago), invited me to have an exhibition. The gallery operates on a nonprofit model and allows artists the opportunity to have complete creative control. I set out on a road trip, thinking it would help me decide what I wanted to explore. While I was driving through Nebraska, I noticed that every small town had a Masonic lodge, Elks lodge, VFW, or American Legion post. I became curious about what the population was like and how they could sustain a physical structure in a remote town of 150 people: How could they possibly have enough wartime veterans, and what purpose did the post, often one of the few nonresidential buildings in the town, serve in the community as a whole?

MIB: How did you narrow your focus?

MK: I took exterior photos of several different American Legion posts on the trip, but there was one in particular—in Cody, Nebraska—that I was especially fascinated by. When I returned to Chicago, I printed, framed, and hung the image in my office and looked at it daily while 36 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

sitting at my computer. I grew increasingly curious about what was inside this building, and started researching the American Legion.

MIB: What was the most surprising thing you learned?

MK: I read that 640 World War II vets died every day in 2013, but today less than 1 percent of the U.S. population serves in the military. So those statistics, combined with the decreasing popularity of small towns or of joining fraternal organizations, necessitated an urgency to explore what was inside the Legion posts and what the communities in these small towns were like.

DANIELLE MCLIMORE

The Austin–Irving Branch of the Chicago Public Library will have Karson’s photographs on display from July 1 to September 30. The library will host a public reception and discussion panel with the author and local legionnaries on July 23 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Copies of American Legion can be purchased at mariahkarson.com/ americanlegion

Need a little something for your summer reading list?

Evanston’s Bookends and Beginnings (1712 Sherman Ave., Alley #1) has you covered:

Mrs. by Caitlin Macy; Little, Brown and Co., $27. Mrs. reads as if Edith Wharton herself had swooped down on a hideously exclusive Upper East Side New York preschool, performed a perfect clinical analysis of the intersection of money, class, and sex for each one of the families, and then served it up to you as the most elegant, delicately spiced hors d’oeuvres you’ve ever tasted. You relish every sentence. You can’t wait till the next time you’ll get invited to one of Caitlin Macy’s dazzling literary parties.

The Best Cook in the World by Rick Bragg; Knopf, $28.95. This book makes you want to pull the plug on whatever else you were supposed to do today, start cooking some Cornmeal Porridge with Chicken and Watercress, let your home fill with the aromas of the home Rick Bragg grew up in, and curl up on the couch savoring every cracklin’ good story he tells about his people. It’s a bighearted and delicious homage to one of America’s great indigenous cuisines, and to the colorful generations of one American family who lived and died by it.

The Secrets Between Us by Thrity Umrigar; HarperLuxe, $27.99. A glow of wisdom and empathy illuminates every sentence in this novel, set in India, about a former servant forging her own future by setting up a stall in the local produce market—and forming a business partnership with an almost unbearably bitter old woman she meets there. The ways that the characters manage to reach out and touch one another— despite having been found “untouchable” in various ways by others in their lives—is startling and hugely heartening.

Circe by Madeline Miller; Little, Brown and Co., $27. In The Odyssey, the enchantress Circe is a minor character, but If Homer had been a woman, we would have known all along why Circe turned sailors who visited her island into pigs, why she spared Odysseus and chose to bewitch him instead, and what happened after he went back to Ithaca. But now we have Madeline Miller to give voice to all of that. Brilliantly imagined and artfully told, this novel is a “women’s odyssey”—a story full of adventures encountered on the way to search for a self.

MARIAH KARSON

Author Talk

New and Noteworthy

A bill you can share as easily as your fries.

That’s the BMO Effect.

We get that sharing a bill the old fashioned way can be hard to stomach. That’s why BMO Harris Bank now offers People Pay, a simple way to send money, right from your phone.

Learn more at bmoharris.com/mobile

Message and data rates may apply. Contact your wireless carrier for details. Banking products and services are subject to bank and credit approval. People Pay is available for BMO Harris Mobile Banking smartphone apps only. For details, see the BMO Harris Mobile Banking End User Terms found at bmoharris.com/legal. BMO Harris Bank Member FDIC

Your Chicago / FINANCE

Money, Values, Impact

T

SUSAN PASTERNAK HIS APRIL, THOUGHT leaders gathered at Make It Better’s

third annual Money, Values & Impact summit to share their thoughts about how to maximize social impact without sacrificing capital gains. Convening at Chicago’s Four Seasons Hotel, the curated lineup

of presenters spoke to some 170 attendees, including investors and civic leaders, about the changing landscape of sustainable finance and impact investing.

STEVE AUSTIN Managing Director & Regional Director, Morgan Stanley “It only makes sense to make sure that you put your money to reflect correctly with the values that you live every day. There are people who specialize in that type of investing, and they can provide you that framework and that road map to go into a very robust investment process that’s not going to have any type of sacrifice when it comes to how well you do from a return perspective.”

MELANIE SABELHAUS Vice Chair, American Red Cross “We have to be good stewards, we have to invest it in our community, we have to invest it for our families. Ladies, you are the most powerful voice there is in philanthropy. You are making the decisions. You are calling the shots, and that’s significant. You invest your time, your talent, and your treasure.”

Speaker Eric Weinheimer summed up the evening’s message—that impact investing should be a deliberate and thoughtful process that can reap great rewards—by quoting the business magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie: “It is more difficult to give money away intelligently than to earn it in the first place.”

That was indeed the theme of the evening, as the summit’s six speakers shared real-world stories and offered strategies that aim to make a difference while boosting returns. Here are some of the highlights:

KATHY ROESER Managing Director & Wealth Advisor, Morgan Stanley “What is happening is transformational. By 2025, in this country we will have the largest workforce being millennials and they will make up 75 percent of this workforce. And they think about investing differently. They approach investing with a lens with filters for social impact.”

CARLA HARRIS Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Morgan Stanley “Almost every company across industries…they think about the fact that things are transitioning from having three constituencies now to four. It used to be, from a corporate perspective, the three constituencies you had were your shareholders, your customers and your employees. Now there’s a fourth constituency called community.

They now realize that they have a responsibility to take care of some of society’s ills. If you are an investor, you can customize this by looking at companies that try to do what you value.”

STEVEN ZICK Senior Vice President & Director, Christie’s Speaking about Christie’s recent charity auction of David and Peggy Rockefeller’s art collection: “If there was ever a case of passion and doing good coinciding, this was a wonderful case. The Rockefellers were old school. They bought things because they loved them. They were exposed to a vast array of cultures and artistic forms of expression, so they were open to a great deal. It’s an investment that can do good. Not all of us can be Rockefellers, but all of us can have fun while we’re investing in art.”

ERIC WEINHEIMER President & CEO, Forefront “You want to provide flexible and reliable funding. Folks, give general operating funding so the leaders can allocate where the needs are. We need to listen to the nonprofits that are doing this work every day. They have the expertise. We need to trust what they say needs to be done in order for you to get the results that you want to get through your philanthropy.”

For more from this year’s Money, Values, & Impact summit—including videos of the experts’ talks—visit makeitbetter.com/MVI2018

38 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

FO R MO R E FI NAN CE CO N T EN T, VISIT M A K E IT B E T T E R .COM / FI N A N C E

H H the H H

SCIENCE to get your

life back

BRAIN INJURIES: SCIENCE HAS LANDED.

Here comes 26 stories of scientific-powered hope for patients facing life-altering injury or illness. Built on the shoulders of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, this shining new hospital has 10x more dedicated researchers than any other rehabilitation hospital.

Like never before, researchers work directly alongside doctors and therapists, surrounding patients to collaborate in real time, not theory time. Faster, better outcomes. Do you hear us coming?

BRAIN I SPINAL CORD I NERVE, MUSCLE & BONE I PEDIATRIC I CANCER

Designed To Inspire morgantewilson.com | 847.332.1001

In a city as vibrant as Chicago, making everyday decisions—where to order dinner, get a haircut, push your kids on the swings— can feel downright dizzying. Enter our (eighth annual!) Best Of awards: You shared your favorite spaces and places, we tallied the votes, and together we’ll celebrate all that makes our beloved communities shine.

BEST

of

2018 Whether you live in the heart of the city or the sprawl of the suburbs, turn the page to discover this year’s winners—each one worthy of your time, money, and support—in the following categories.

Arts & Entertainment • Beauty Celebrations • Dining Education • Fitness & Recreation Home & Design • Kids Philanthropy • Services • Shopping Read more about this year’s winners at makeitbetter.com/bestof2018

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 41

BESTof 2018

Arts & Entertainment

BY ANNA CARLSON

The Peninsula

including City on the Move, Ravinia Festival Music Makers, and SpotHero Car Garage.

BEST LIVE THEATER (City)

Steppenwolf

This premier ensemble theater has received numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts and 12 Tony Awards.

Second City

BEST LIVE THEATER (Suburbs)

Writers Theatre GLENCOE The Wall Street

Journal has called this “the top regional theater in the nation.”

BEST CHILDREN’S THEATER (City)

Steppenwolf

Emerald City Theatre

City Winery

Founded in 1996, Emerald City Theatre is Chicago’s largest theater for young audiences and creates programs that “motivate young people to creatively face the world.”

Anne Loucks Gallery

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE (City)

BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL (City)

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD FESTIVAL (Suburbs)

Chicago’s Gilded Age (July 1 to Sept. 30).

BEST CHILDREN’S MUSEUM (City)

City Winery

Lollapalooza

Winnetka Music Festival

BEST MUSEUM (Suburbs)

Chicago Children’s Museum

Part winery and restaurant, part concert hall, City Winery is perfect for date night or your next private event.

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE (Suburbs) BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL (Suburbs)

Ravinia

HIGHLAND PARK

There’s nothing like a summer evening at this popular North Shore destination.

This year’s lineup features Arctic Monkeys, Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, and Jack White.

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD FESTIVAL (City)

Square Roots

This Lincoln Square festival will feature more than 60 acts, food and craft beer, family activities, and more July 13-15.

42 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

The popular festival returned for its second year in June with acts like ZZ Ward, A Thousand Horses, Andrew Belle, and Jake Allen.

BEST MUSEUM (City)

The Art Institute of Chicago Current and upcoming exhibits include Charles White: A Retrospective (through Sept. 3) and John Singer Sargent and

Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

SKOKIE The mission

of this museum is to “Remember the Past, Transform the Future,” and the groundbreaking Take a Stand Center is a must-visit.

Here, kids can “create, explore, and discover” while they play in popular exhibits like WaterWays and Dinosaur Expedition.

BEST CHILDREN’S MUSEUM (Suburbs)

Kohl Children’s Museum

GLENVIEW This favorite

spot for families features 17 permanent exhibits,

BEST CHILDREN’S THEATER (Suburbs)

Children’s Theatre of Winnetka

Here, children star both onstage and behind the curtain during two annual productions.

BEST COMEDY VENUE (City)

Second City

This “comedy empire” entertains 1 million people every year and boasts famous alumni like Bill Murray, Martin Short, Steve Carell, Amy Poehler, and Tina Fey.

CITY WINERY: PETER RANVESTEL; STEPPENWOLF: KYLE FLUBACKER

Chicago Botanic Garden

BESTof 2018 BEST COMEDY VENUE (Suburbs)

Improv Comedy Club SCHAUMBURG Need a

good laugh? Make your way to this club that welcomes some of the biggest names in comedy every week.

BEST HOTEL (City)

The Peninsula Chicago This award-

winning hotel features “Far Eastern graciousness together with Midwestern hospitality.”

Anne Loucks Gallery GLENCOE This Glencoe

BEST AUCTION HOUSE (Tie)

Sotheby’s

Founded in 1744, the auction house is “the oldest and largest internationally recognized firm of fine art auctioneers in the world.”

Leslie Hindman Auctioneers

The fine art auction house has more salesrooms in the U.S. than any other auction house and organizes more than 60 auctions every year.

BEST FAMILY OUTING (City)

Lincoln Park Zoo

This free zoo is currently celebrating its 150th anniversary.

BEST FAMILY OUTING (Suburbs)

Chicago Botanic Garden GLENCOE In 2017, more

than 1 million visitors explored this top Chicago destination.

Chicago Cubs

Nothing beats a summer day at Wrigley Field (well, maybe a summer night…).

Beauty

BY MADDY SIMS

Dr. Jordan Carqueville

BEST ARTIST WITH LOCAL ROOTS

Erin Kaya

BEST ART GALLERY

gallery represents more than 40 emerging and midcareer artists and curates six exhibits every year.

BEST CHICAGO SPORTS EXPERIENCE

Stone Terrace Bed & Breakfast

BEST HOTEL (Suburbs) BEST STAYCATION (Suburbs)

Stone Terrace Bed & Breakfast EVANSTON AB & B is

Kaya is a Chicago abstract artists who says, “When you see my work up close, I want you to see the paint moving, the details of the strokes, the layers of paint and then back away form the piece to see a new world.”

BEST NEWS ANCHOR

Allison Rosati

When you want the latest news, you turn to NBC Chicago’s longtime newscaster Allison Rosati.

just steps away from Lake Michigan offers amenities like heated bathroom floors, massage and exercise rooms, and an outdoor terrace.

BEST OVERLOOKED TOURIST SPOT; BEST MIDWEST DESTINATION; BEST MIDWEST FAMILY DESTINATION

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

A day (or several!) in this beautiful Wisconsin city, which offers endless options for activities, shopping, dining, and events, is less than two hours away.

BEST STAYCATION (City)

Chicago Athletic Association If you want to get away, but can’t get that far away, make plans to stay at this 241-room boutique hotel, complete with multiple “innovative culinary experiences.”

BEST COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST (City)

BEST MAKEUP ARTIST (Suburbs)

Dr. Jordan Carqueville

Dr. Jordan Carqueville can take care of all your skin concerns—acne, pesky fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage—and has offices in both Chicago and Glenview.

Elise Brill Elise Brill

NORTHBROOK

Whether you want a natural, fresh-faced look or a bold smoky eye, Elise Brill can give you the look of your dreams.

Tom Skilling

BEST METEOROLOGIST

BEST MASSAGE (City) BEST FACIAL (City)

Tom Skilling

Cowshed at Soho House Get clear, glowing skin at this spa, which offers a variety of ultra-luxe facials in addition to an impressive menu of massages.

Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable, but you trust WGN meteorologist Tom Skilling to always keep you in the know.

BEST RADIO DJ (Tie)

Eric Ferguson

You’ve voted and say mornings are better with 101.9 The Mix’s Eric in the Morning host.

Lin Brehmer

Fans of vintage rock and roll love 93XRT and Lin Brehmer, the station’s morning DJ for 26 years.

Dr. Amy Taub

BEST COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST (Suburbs)

BEST MASSAGE (Suburbs) BEST FACIAL (Suburbs) BEST SPA (Suburbs)

Egea Spa

Dr. Amy Taub

EVANSTON This repeat winner

GLENCOE AND LINCOLNSHIRE Dr.

Amy Taub has two practices that offer nationally renowned cosmetic procedures and treatments.

offers top-of-the-line spa services, including comprehensive spa packages designed to help relieve stress and tension.

Continued on next page>

BEST MAKEUP ARTIST (City)

Shannon O’Brien

Shannon O’Brien has done makeup for celebrities like Sophia Bush, Kristin Cavallari, and Meghan Markle.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 43

BESTof 2018

Beauty

Celebrations

(cont’d)

Allyu

BY ANNA CARLSON

BEST BAND

Arlen Music Productions

EVANSTON For the

fourth year in a row you have named this entertainment company number one.

BEST BRIDAL SHOP

Mira Couture

CHICAGO When you’re

Iron Heritage Supply Co. Offering both hair and beard grooming services, Iron Heritage Supply Co. wins this year’s vote for its stellar service.

BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT/SALON SERVICES (Suburbs) BEST WOMEN’S HAIRCUT/ SALON SERVICES (Suburbs)

Andreas Hogue Salon

NORTHBROOK In both the men’s

and the women’s category, our readers say, Andreas Hogue’s services are simply the best.

BEST WOMEN’S HAIRCUT/ SALON SERVICES (City)

Urban Lift Salon

The clean, cozy atmosphere makes Urban Lift Salon the perfect place to relax and unwind while getting firstclass hair services.

BEST NAIL SALON (City)

ZaZaZoo Nail Salon

The fun decor and exceptional services make ZaZaZoo Nail Salon the best of the best this year when it comes to all things nails.

BEST NAIL SALON (Suburbs)

Teddie Kossof

Kossof wins this year’s vote with its wide selection of nail services (like their nourishing conditioning treatment).

BEST SPA (City)

Allyu

Whether you’re looking for a pedicure, a massage, a facial, or some chakra balancing, our readers say, Allyu is the place to go to.

BEST MED SPA (City)

Dermatology + Aesthetics

This spa was voted top of the line for its outstanding services and procedures.

BEST MED SPA (Suburbs)

Trio Med Spa

NORTHFIELD Trio Med Spa’s superb

services won this year’s vote.

BEST LASHES (City)

Amazing Lash Studio

Get long, fluttery lashes at Amazing Lash Studio’s Chicago locations.

BEST LASHES (Suburbs)

60s Beauty Lash

WINNETK A Inspired by the 1960s,

this boutique will give you the lashes of your dreams.

NORTHFIELD The largest salon

on Chicago’s North Shore, Teddie

44 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

BEST CATERER

Catering by Michaels

MORTON GROVE What-

ever you’re celebrating, this catering company will make it memorable.

Plus, they’re the only North American caterer that’s both Green Restaurant Certified and Green Seal Certified.

BEST EVENT PLANNER

Stacey Moe Events

LAKE FOREST Need

help planning your next event? Stacey Moe Events will make sure it’s one you and your guests will never forget.

BEST EVENT VENUE

Stan Mansion

CHICAGO This historic

mansion in Logan Square is the top-rated place to host everything from a wedding to a birthday party to a corporate event.

Flowers by Katie Ford

BEST FLORIST

Flowers by Katie Ford

Katie Ford started her business in order to bring joy to others through flowers. “Flowers by Katie Ford has been a blessing in every sense of the word, and I am full of gratitude for the support the North Shore has shown me,” Ford says.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER (City)

Anna Zajac Weddings

According to Anna Zajac, “you’ll find nothing but good vibes and high fives here.” Enough said!

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER (Suburbs)

Julie Kaplan Photography

HIGHLAND PARK Julie

Kaplan says she prides herself on “excellent customer service and beautiful wall art for my clients to cherish forever.” You definitely think she succeeds — this is the fifth time Julie Kaplan Photography has been voted a Best Of winner.

BEST STATIONER

Calligraphy

by Katherine

WILMETTE From ad-

dressing envelopes and invitations to certificates and poems, all of Calligraphy by Katherine’s work is “hand lettered with utmost attention to detail.”

ALLYU: JOHN FAIER; FLOWERS BY KATIE FORD: KERRI SHERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT/SALON SERVICES (City)

one a quest for the dress, turn to Mira Couture to find everything you’re dreaming of.

BESTof 2018

Dining

BEST BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH (City)

Southport Grocery

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Convito Café & Market

There’s always a line on weekends, but it’s well worth the wait. Breakfast and lunch are served all day, so you don’t have to choose.

Tanta

Walker Bros.

Longitud315

get enough of Dutch Babies and Apple Cinnamon Pancakes, so it’s a good thing there are multiple locations.

BEST BREWERY (City)

beefy Argentine steak with herby chimichurri and a lovely glass of malbec are all you need to transport yourself from Highwood to Buenos Aires.

Half Acre

BEST CHINESE (City)

BEST BREWERY (Suburbs, Tie)

BEST BAR (SUBURBS)

Sketchbook and Temperance

Valley Lodge Tavern

two premier craft breweries are homegrown and wildly popular.

BEST ALFRESCO DINING (City)

BEST BAKERY (City, Tie)

Piccolo Sogno

Floriole and Sweet Mandy B’s

In the city, Piccolo Sogno’s magical back terrace, under a bower of trees and twinkling lights, won your vote.

BEST ALFRESCO DINING (Suburbs, Tie) CONVITO: ROBERT WARNER PHOTOGRAPHY; HEWN: JULIE MATTHEI

Hewn

Convito Café & Market and Hackney’s

There’s nothing like the great outdoors, especially when you’re eating Convito’s (WILMETTE) famed Nicoise Salad or biting into a juicy Hackney’s (GLENVIEW AND PALOS PARK) burger.

These Lincoln Park neighbors have a friendly rivalry. Head to Floriole for gorgeous breads and French-inspired pastries and to Sweet Mandy B’s for classic birthday cakes and cupcakes.

BEST BAKERY (Suburbs)

Hewn

EVANSTON Owner/

baker Ellen King spins heritage grains into glorious, crusty loaves.

BEST BAR (City)

Broken Shaker

This Miami import with a hipster vibe turns out impressive craft cocktails.

GLENVIEW AND WILMETTE This popular

suburban watering hole has two great locations.

BEST BARBECUE (City)

Smoque BBQ

With outlets in Avondale and at Revival Food Hall in the Loop, Smoque brings the BBQ to all.

BEST BARBECUE (Suburbs)

Hecky’s

EVANSTON It’s still all

about the sauce, especially on Hecky’s tender rib tips and pulled pork.

Grab a pisco sour and groove with the Peruvian vibe here. Known for their Cebiche Tasting and Pollo a la Brasa.

BEST CENTRAL/ SOUTH AMERICAN (Suburbs)

This cult-fave micro brewery now has two tap rooms—one in Andersonville and one in Lincoln Square.

Sketchbook

Tanta

BEST BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH (Suburbs) VARIOUS You just can’t

Edzo’s

BEST CENTRAL/ SOUTH AMERICAN (City)

EVANSTON Evanston’s

BEST BURGER (City)

Au Cheval

This perennial “best burger” choice has expanded with three locations of Small Cheval— the menu is limited, but it’s that same great burger. Smaller lines? Dream on.

BEST BURGER (Suburbs)

Edzo’s Burger Shop

EVANSTON Hand-cut

fries, hand-dipped shakes and the best burgers on the North Shore. Chef Eddie Lakin isn’t playing.

HIGHWOOD Their

Duck Duck Goat Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard has got our goat with this West Loop resto, her personal take on Chinese favorites.

BEST CHINESE (Suburbs) BEST SUSHI (Suburbs)

Koi

EVANSTON This Evan-

ston stalwart is still packing them in with Chinese cuisine from eight different regions and a terrific dim sum Brunch.

BEST COCKTAILS (City)

Billy Sunday

Logan Square denizens swear by the exceptional beverage program here.

BEST COCKTAILS (Suburbs)

Ward 8

EVANSTON This out-

BEST COFFEE SHOP (City)

La Colombe

We love the deep, dark roast, and the nitro on tap is the perfect summer quaff.

BEST COFFEE SHOP (Suburbs)

Glenview Grind

This fiercely independent coffee shop beat out the big boys for the suburban title! They’ve also just opened a drive-thru in downtown Glenview.

BEST FARM-TOTABLE (City)

Homestead on the Roof

Dine among the growing herbs and vegetables on the rooftop terrace. You can’t get much fresher than that.

BEST FARM-TOTABLE (Suburbs)

Farmhouse

EVANSTON Whether for

breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, this restaurant stays true to its name, bringing in much of the fruit and honey from its own Brown Dog Farm in Wisconsin.

BEST FARMERS MARKET (City, Tie)

Green City Market and Logan Square Farmers Market Connect with Midwest farmers and local craft food purveyors at these two wonderful markets.

Watch for the GCM Chef BBQ in Lincoln Park this month!

standing craft cocktail bar with a speakeasy feel draws from far beyond Evanston.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 45

BESTof 2018

(cont’d.)

BEST FARMERS MARKET (Suburbs)

Evanston

We love the Evanston market for the free parking, the great selection of fresh, local produce, and all the yummy ready-toeat treats (looking at you, crêpes and tamales).

BEST FINE DINING (City)

Oriole

With two shiny Michelin stars right out of the gate, Chef Noah Sandoval and his team have much to crow about.

BEST FINE DINING (Suburbs)

Restaurant Michael

WINNETK A Fine dining

is not dead; look no further than the enduring Restaurant Michael and the ambitious George Trois within for proof.

BEST FROZEN YOGURT/ICE CREAM/ GELATO (City)

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

You’ll find this Ohiobased ice cream in local supermarkets, but the scoop shops have all the flavors, and with four Chicago locations, there must be one nearby!

BEST FROZEN YOGURT/ICE CREAM/ GELATO (Suburbs)

FRÍO Gelato

EVANSTON Evanston

is the proud home of this artisanal Argentine gelato store, where people line up year-round for flavors like Malbec & Berries and Dulce de Leche.

BEST GROCERY STORE (City)

Mariano’s

Everyone loves Mariano’s, with its fresh juice bar, amazing wine and cheese selection and jaw-dropping bakery department.

BEST GROCERY STORE (Suburbs)

Grand Food Center

GLENCOE AND WINNETK A This locally

owned mini chain is truly your favorite North Shore market.

BEST HIGH TEA (City)

The Drake

You picked a classic!

The Drake has been doing high tea right for decades.

BEST HIGH TEA (Suburbs)

waves with its modern take on Italian cucina.

Deer Path Inn

BEST JAPANESE (City)

LAKE FOREST Refined

service and delectable tea sandwiches and mini pastries are hallmarks of this hotel.

BEST INDIAN (City)

Vermilion

Owner/chef/tastemaker Rohini Dey keeps the spice coming at this River North spot; cocktails are also on point.

BEST INDIAN (Suburbs)

Mt. Everest

EVANSTON Of course

there’s an extensive lunch buffet at this Evanston stalwart, but the a la carte menu of Nepalese and Indian specialties is what sets it apart.

BEST ITALIAN (City)

Riccardo Trattoria

Although it may be located in the heart of Lincoln Park, the cuisine at this Italian ristorante reminds us most of Florence.

BEST ITALIAN (Suburbs) BEST NEW RESTAURANT (OPENED SINCE SEPTEMBER 2017) (Suburbs)

Mino’s

WINNETK A This new-

comer is already making

Kitsune

Chef Iliana Regan is really about honoring the techniques and flavor profiles of Japanese cuisine, rather than turning out a carbon copy, and the results are often spectacular.

BEST JAPANESE (Suburbs)

Torino Ramen WILMETTE Chicago’s

best ramen may well be in… Wilmette?!? The broths here are simply luscious, and they’re making the tender ramen noodles in house.

BEST MEXICAN (City)

Dos Urban Cantina

Frontera Grill vets Brian and Jennifer Enyart are reinventing Mexican dishes at their colorful Logan Square restaurant, and we are here for it.

BEST MEXICAN (Suburbs)

Depot Nuevo

WILMETTE They’ve

brought the crown back to Wilmette with their enormous margaritas, deep bench of tequilas, and a menu filled with crowd-pleasers.

Bar Biscay

BEST NEW RESTAURANT (OPENED SINCE SEPTEMBER 2017) (City)

BEST ROMANTIC DINING (City)

Bar Biscay

Dark and clubby, with gorgeous woodwork and killer cocktails, this stunning spot in the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel has got it all going on.

This West Town newbie is named for part of Spain’s Atlantic coastline and features Spanish seafood preparations and Basque-influenced dishes.

BEST PIZZA (City, Tie)

Coalfire and Piece

Thin-crust pie is the best pie! Especially when it’s the blistered, charcoal oven-fired pizza at Coalfire in West Town or Wrigleyville, or the New Haven-style apizz (not a typo!) at Piece in Wicker Park.

BEST PIZZA (Suburbs)

Lou Malnati’s

This is your favorite deep-dish pizza, so you probably already know you can ship one directly to your family and friends who’ve moved away!

BEST PLACE TO BRING A GROUP (City)

Eden

Your group will be spoiled for choice at this West Loop farm-to-table restaurant with its emphasis on fresh and flavorful.

BEST PLACE TO BRING A GROUP (Suburbs) BEST SERVICE (Suburbs)

Nick’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill WILMETTE They’ve just

Eden

46 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

Depot Nuevo

celebrated their fifth anniversary in Wilmette with an updated menu, so now there are even more yummy options for you and your guests.

Cherry Circle Room

BEST ROMANTIC DINING (Suburbs)

Hearth

EVANSTON You know

what’s romantic?

Hearing your loved one speak without shouting over the music and the general din. Hearth is a welcome respite from sensory overload.

BEST SANDWICHES (City)

Steingold’s

It’s all about fast-casual service at this North Center Jewish deli (and its new outpost in Ravenswood manor) with a fine selection of smoked meats and fish.

BEST SANDWICHES (Suburbs)

Stacked & Folded

WINNETK A Fresh,

locally sourced ingredients help elevate the sandwiches at this Winnetka storefront.

BEST SEAFOOD (City)

Portsmith

The Fifty/50 Group hits another one out of the park at this beautiful fish-centric spot in the Dana Hotel.

BEST SEAFOOD (Suburbs)

Oceanique

EVANSTON Chef Mark

Grosz continues to

EDEN: HALLIE DUESENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY; BAR BISCAY: GALDONES PHOTOGRAPHY

Dining

BESTof 2018

Education

BY MADDY SIMS

French Institute of the North Shore Nick’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill

produce pristine preparations of fresh fish and seafood inspired by French classics.

BEST SERVICE (City)

Acadia

The professional, attentive service one would expect at a restaurant with two Michelin stars and a mindblowing tasting menu.

BEST STEAKHOUSE (City)

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

This is what meat lovers dream about when they close their eyes. We’re talking beef nirvana.

BEST TAKEOUT DINING (City)

BEST VEGAN/ VEGETARIAN (City)

Antique Taco

Bad Hunter

There are now three locations—Wicker Park, Bridgeport and The Loop —to fulfill your emergent taco needs. Don’t miss the Pork Carnitas or the Crispy Fish tacos.

BEST TAKEOUT DINING (Suburbs)

Convito Café & Market WILMETTE For nearly

40 years, they’ve been bringing the delicious so that you can look good.

Whether it’s a Ravinia picnic basket for 10 or a dinner for 100, the quality is consistently high.

BEST STEAKHOUSE (Suburbs)

BEST THAI (City)

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Opart Thai House

You love that sizzling steak!

Both the South Loop and West Town locations are serving up a huge menu of tasty Thai standards.

BEST SUSHI (City)

BEST THAI (Suburbs)

Naoki

NaKorn

NORTHBROOK AND SOUTH BARRINGTON

This is where Chicago’s Japanese Consulate brings hungry visitors from Japan, and that tells you all you need to know!

NaKorn

EVANSTON Nakorn

means “cosmopolitan” in Thai, and that’s an apt description of the exceptionally prepared and presented food here in Evanston. Think ginger, lemongrass, coconut and tamarind with lots of fresh seafood, meat and veggies. Not your average Thai by a longshot.

A wonderful addition to the West Loop Restaurant Row, this producecentric menu makes veggies sexy.

BEST VEGAN/ VEGETARIAN (Suburbs)

Blind Faith Café EVANSTON Part of the

Evanston landscape for nearly 40 years, they’ve been serving up vegetarian and vegan cuisine since before it was cool.

BEST WINE STORE (City)

Binny’s Beverage Depot This wine and liquor superstore now has 38 locations in Illinois.

BEST WINE STORE (Suburbs)

Schaefer’s Wines, Foods & Spirits

SKOKIE Skokie is home

to one of the finest family-run wine stores around, known for personal service.

BEST BUSINESS SCHOOL

Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University EVANSTON A nationally renowned

school, Kellogg School of Business offers a comprehensive education in all things business-related.

BEST CHICAGO-AREA UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE

BEST PRESCHOOL BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Lake Forest Country Day School

This winner offers “a thematic, multisensory curriculum [that] includes early literacy, math, science, and music introduction, as well as arts projects and outdoor physical activity on a playground designed just for this age group.”

Northwestern University

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL

Northwestern University ranks among the top universities in the country.

NORTHFIELD AND WINNETK A

EVANSTON Home of the Wildcats,

BEST CONTINUING EDUCATION

French Institute of the North Shore WINNETK A Parlez-vous français?

With the help of the exceptional educational services at the French Institute of the North Shore, you’ll learn the language in no time.

New Trier Township High School

With about 4,200 students enrolled, this large school offers premiere education and college prep along with countless extracurricular activities.

BEST TUTOR

How About Learning NORTHBROOK Whether your

student needs a little extra help in a course or is trying to master a subject completely, the team at How About Learning prides itself on creating an environment that helps all students succeed.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 47

BESTof 2018

Fitness & Recreation

BY MADDY SIMS

Windy City Strength

Dedicated to helping clients achieve the highest quality of fitness (and quality of life), Windy City Strength is the home of Windy City Crossfit — the first crossfit facility in Chicago.

BEST CROSSFIT (Suburbs)

CrossFit e-town EVANSTON A family-

owned business, CrossFit e-town fosters a community of people who “sweat and suffer together” with

the goal of realizing their strongest, best selves.

BEST EQUIPMENT/ ATHLETIC-WEAR STORE

Lululemon

VARIOUS With their

unique sweat-wicking fabric and sleek design, Lululemon apparel is ace for all kinds of exercise.

BEST FITNESS CLASSES

SALT Fitness

CHICAGO, KENILWORTH AND NORTHBROOK

Offering three different

Home & Design

BY ANNA CARLSON

BEST ARCHITECT (City)

Perkins + Will

Featured work by Perkins+Will in Chicago includes Rush University Medical Center, Campus Transformation Project; The Contemporaine; Riverline; and Skybridge.

BEST ARCHITECT (Suburbs)

Reynolds Architecture Design

& Construction NORTHFIELD Since its

founding in 1995, Reynolds Architecture has designed and built more than 150 custom homes.

BEST BUILDER (City)

Power Construction

The mission of Power Construction is, they admit, very simple: “to build what matters.”

48 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

classes — barre, cycling, and foundational interval training (FIT) — SALT helps its members achieve their fitness goals.

BEST FITNESS CLUB BEST PILATES STUDIO (Suburbs) BEST YOGA STUDIO (Suburbs)

FUEL: Mind to Body

GLENVIEW This winner

offers a huge selection of classes taught by highly qualified instructors. From weight loss to stress management,

FUEL: Mind to Body has your needs covered.

BEST GYM

Redefined Fitness

WILMETTE Dedicated

to helping clients reach their full potential, Redefined Fitness wins for its training, workouts, and positive culture.

BEST INDOOR POOL BEST RACQUET SPORTS CLUB

North Suburban YMCA NORTHBROOK This

spacious indoor aquatic facility is (and has been) a favorite of our readers.

North Suburban YMCA also offers numerous sports programs.

BEST OUTDOOR POOL (City)

Midtown

Our readers voted for Midtown Athletic Club’s Chicago location for the best outdoor pool in the city.

BEST OUTDOOR POOL (Suburbs)

Midtown

the warmer weather in this gorgeous outdoor pool that has lanes in it for lap swimming.

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER (Tie)

Eric Smoot Hemphill, Redefined Fitness and Gregg Piper, V3 Fit Club

Eric Smoot Hemphill (WILMETTE) and Gregg Piper (HIGHLAND PARK) both won for excellent service and dedication to their clients.

BANNOCKBURN Enjoy

BEST BUILDER (Suburbs) BEST SHOWROOM

de Giulio kitchen design

A. Perry Homes

WILMETTE If you’re look-

ing to build your dream home, turn to these multiyear Best Of winners.

BEST EXTERIOR PAINTING BEST INTERIOR PAINTING

Hester Painting & Decorating

SKOKIE This third-gener-

ation, family-owned business (and multi-time Best Of winner) is celebrating 50 years in 2018.

BEST FLOORING

Lewis Floor & Home

Reynolds Architecture Design & Construction NORTHBROOK From

carpet and hardwood to tile and laminate, you’ll find the right flooring for your home at Lewis’ showroom.

BEST HANDYMAN

Get Dwell

WINNETK A When you

find yourself in need of a repair, you turn to the team at Get Dwell.

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER (City)

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER (Suburbs)

Anthony Michael Interior Design

Ilene Chase Design

Anthony Michael Interior Design is not only an award-winning business, but also a business that believes in giving back.

With over 18 years of experience, Ilene Chase is one of the North Shore’s top custom and high-end designers.

DE GIULIO: DAVE BURK, HEDRICH BLESSING PHOTOGRAPHERS

BEST CROSSFIT (City)

Redefined Fitness

BESTof 2018

Kids

BEST PILATES STUDIO (City)

Pilates + Coffee

Located in the heart of Roscoe Village, this studio is a cozy neighborhood spot that helps everyone achieve his or her practice goals.

BY MADDY SIMS

BEST SKATING RINK (City)

Gallagher Way

Perfect for ringing in holiday cheer, Gallagher Way has a beautiful ice rink that is open to all ages and skill levels.

Studio SPIN

BEST SPIN STUDIO (City)

BEST YOGA STUDIO (City)

SoulCycle

Om on the Range

BEST SKATING RINK (Suburbs, Tie)

Our readers voted SoulCycle the best place to go for a rewarding spin session.

Northbrook and Winnetka

BEST SPIN STUDIO (Suburbs)

In a tie for the favorite, both Northbrook and Winnetka have won the vote for best skating rinks. Bonus: they’re open year-round.

Studio SPIN

NORTHFIELD A repeat

winner, Studio SPIN offers spin classes and other fusion classes, like Spin & Yoga or Spin & Boxing.

A cozy neighborhood spot, Om on the Range is a top-notch yoga studio that offer several different classes.

BEST YOUTH SPORTS TRAINING

iProSkills Academy

Steve & Kate’s

CHICAGO Focused on

BEST DAY CAMP (City)

BEST KIDS’ CLOTHING (City)

specialized and individualized European training methods, iProSkills Academy will take athletes’ abilities to the next level.

Steve & Kate’s

Half Pint Shop

With endless opportunities for campers to explore their interests, Steve & Kate’s wins best of the best when it comes to day camp.

Get the cutest outfits from Half Pint Shop, which offers clothing for babies, toddlers, and mommies.

BEST KIDS’ CLOTHING (Suburbs)

BEST DAY CAMP (Suburbs)

BEST KITCHEN DESIGN (Tie)

BEST LANDSCAPERS (Tie)

Abruzzo Kitchen and Bath

Mariani Landscape

Abruzzo team will guide you from start to finish to make sure your home is picture perfect.

60 years, Mariani is committed to creating beautiful landscapes sustainably.

de Giulio kitchen design

Chalet

SCHAUMBURG The

CHICAGO/WILMETTE

de Giulio is “widely recognized for distinctive compositions that combine an experienced sensibility to craft, fine detail and classic proportion,” and has provided services to organizations like Boys Hope/Girls Hope and Habitat for Humanity.

LAKE BLUFF Celebrating

WILMETTE At Chalet,

the goal is to “create a landscape you’ll treasure for many years to come” using the best local plants.

BEST NEW LUXURY DEVELOPMENT

1000M

This addition to the Mag Mile features amenities like a sun deck and sky

terrace, meditation room, a 24/7 fitness room, and much more.

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

@properties

@properties is in the top 11 of residential brokers in the country (by sales volume) and always looks to give back to the community.

BEST SENIOR LIVING

NORTHBROOK Style your little

one with adorable clothing from Peek-a-Boutique.

NORTHBROOK , SKOKIE AND LAKE ZURICH JCC Chicago’s

Apachi J Camps were voted the winner for the fun activities and passion for making camp feel like a home away from home.

Continued on next page> Peek-a-Boutique

BEST INDOOR PLAY SPACE (City)

Present Place

A space that fosters fun and creativity for little ones and relaxation for parents, Present Place is the top pick for best indoor play space.

The Mather

BEST INDOOR PLAYSPACE (Suburbs)

a traditional retirement living experience; this is what The Mather calls Repriorment™.

Little Beans Café

EVANSTON This isn’t

Peek-a-Boutique

JCC Chicago’s Apachi J Camps

EVANSTON A playspace set up like

a miniature town entertains the kids, while a cafe with coffee and food entertains the parents.

Little Beans Café

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 49

BESTof 2018

(cont’d.)

BEST PARK/PLAYGROUND (Suburbs, Tie)

Philanthropy

BY MADDY SIMS

Penny Park and Village Green Park

In a tie, both Penny Park (EVANSTON) and Village Green Park (NORTHBROOK) won our readers’ Wildwood Photogrpahy

BEST KIDS’/FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER (City)

Wildwood Photography No matter the occasion, our readers trust Wildwood Photography to capture their memories.

BEST KIDS’/FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER (Suburbs)

votes for their beautiful landscape and fun playgrounds.

BEST SWIM SCHOOL (City)

Goldfish Swim School

Loved by our readers for its comprehensive program, Goldfish wins best swim school in the city.

North Suburban YMCA

HIGHLAND PARK Dedicated to

producing beautiful photos of kids and families, Julie Kaplan Photography wins for best kids’/family photographer.

BEST KIDS’ HAIRCUT (City)

BEST SWIM SCHOOL (Suburbs)

Snippet’s Mini Cuts

North Suburban YMCA

This adorable kids’ salon has different themes that make going to get a haircut an exciting adventure rather than a boring chore.

NORTHBROOK Get your child com-

BEST KIDS’ HAIRCUT (Suburbs)

BEST TOY STORE (City)

KidSnips

Play Logan Square

outing at KidSnips, which was voted by our readers as the best kids’ haircut location.

BEST OVERNIGHT CAMP

fortable in the water with the highly qualified instructors at the North Suburban YMCA.

Devoted to making life more playful, Play Logan Square offers toys that will make family time and playtime way more fun.

Becky & Me Toys

Committed to fostering an inclusive and fun environment, JCC Camp Chi is the top pick when it comes to overnight camps.

EVANSTON This

BEST TOY STORE (Suburbs)

Becky & Me Toys

EVANSTON This family-owned shop

sells toys that are handpicked by the two owners to ensure the highest quality of playtime possible.

50 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

B right Promises

held in honor of the late Ricky Byrdsong, a former Northwestern basketball coach and a victim of a hate crime.

BEST NON-GALA FUNDRAISER

Bright Promises Foundation Annual Awards CHICAGO This annual

BEST GALA

Lyric Opera Wine Auction

CHICAGO The Lyric Opera

celebration brings together people who want to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged children in Chicago.

Services

BY MADDY SIMS

BEST FLORAL DELIVERY (City)

Flowers for Dreams

Get beautiful floral arrangements from Flowers for Dreams. As an added bonus, each bouquet sold benefits a local charity.

The Flower Shop in Glencoe

BEST PARK/PLAYGROUND (City) Enjoy the beautiful summer weather at this voter-favorite park and playground.

Race Against Hate

BEST FLORAL DELIVERY (Suburbs)

JCC Camp Chi

Maggie Daley Park

BEST CHARITY WALK/RUN

family-friendly race held every Father’s Day brings people together to walk in unity against racial hatred and violence. It is

Julie Kaplan Photography

VARIOUS Turn haircuts into a fun

Race Against Hate

Wine Auction offers an extensive selection of wines to bid on. The profits from the night go toward the Lyric’s “commitment to education, community engagement, artistic initiatives, and creative expression.”

The Flower Shop in Glencoe offers gorgeous floral arrangements with an unexpected touch to make each one unique.

BEST JEWELRY REPAIR (City)

Steve Quick Jeweler

If you’re in a pinch with your rings or necklaces, our readers recommend going to Steve Quick Jeweler to get them fixed up.

Class Moving & Storage (NORTHBROOK) and Happ Movers (GLENVIEW) both offer exceptional moving services.

BEST JEWELRY REPAIR (Suburbs)

BEST PET GROOMING

Franz Jewelers Ltd.

NORTHFIELD Get your

NORTHBROOK From

jewelry repair services to engraving services to complementary cleaning services, Franz Jewelers in Northbrook is our readers’ top pick.

BEST MOVERS (Tie)

First Class Moving & Storage and Happ Movers, Inc. Tied for first place, First

Wags on Willow furry friend cleaned, groomed, and pampered at Wags on Willow.

BEST TRAVEL AGENT

Complete Travel & Cruises MORTON GROVE Book-

ing a big trip for the end of the year? Our readers recommend going to Complete Travel & Cruises in Morton Grove for planning services.

RACE AGAINST HATE: EVANSTON PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIOS; BRIGHT PROMISES: COURTESY OF CAROLE ROBERTRON LEARNING CENTER

Kids

BESTof 2018

Shopping

BEST GIFTS (City)

Art Effect

BY ANNA CARLSON

Mandarine

Start shopping now for that just-right gift in categories like Chicago Gifts, Judaica, Feminist Gear, and Made in the USA. BEST GIFTS (Suburbs)

la de da

NORTHBROOK This

repeat winner not only offers a variety of gift options, but will offer suggestions if you’re too busy to stop in and shop.

Art Effect

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS/HOME ACCESSORIES (City)

Christopher Duquet

Peachtree Place

District Home You’ll find that primo piece to complete any room in your home.

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS/ HOME ACCESSORIES (Suburbs, Tie)

Mandarine Home

Juniper

BEST BOOKSTORE (City)

Women & Children First

The mission of this bookstore is to “promote the writing of women and other marginalized voices.”

BEST BOOKSTORE (Suburbs)

Book Bin

NORTHBROOK For the

second year in a row, you have voted this the best place to find that new favorite read.

BEST BOUTIQUE (City)

Alice & Wonder This Chicago-based boutique is all about

everything pretty and fun, plus everything is under $100 (unless Alice & Wonder really believes it’s worth the price).

than $2,486,000 to organizations like Metropolitan Family Services, JourneyCare, and YWCA Evanston/North Shore.

BEST BOUTIQUE (Suburbs)

BEST DEPARTMENT STORE BEST MEN’S CLOTHING (City)

Juniper Boutique

NORTHBROOK At Juni-

per, you’ll find a selection that is described as “urban suburban—classic pieces with an edge —on trend but never over the top.”

Nordstrom

Whether you’re shopping for him, your home, your kids, or yourself, you’ll find a large selection of designer items at this favorite store.

BEST CONSIGNMENT/THRIFT SHOP

BEST EVENING WEAR (City)

Village Treasure House

Mira Couture

NORTHBROOK Since

1998, this consignment shop has given more

Find that amazing dress and accessories for your next event at this Chicago store.

FO R MO R E , VISIT M A K E IT B E T T E R .COM / B E ST O F 201 8

BEST EVENING WEAR (Suburbs)

Neiman Marcus The classic department store boasts an impressive selection of gowns.

BEST EYEWEAR (City)

Eye Spy Optical For unique frames, this award-winning (and green!) eye care center can’t be beat..

BEST EYEWEAR (Suburbs)

Superior Optical Eyewear GLENVIEW This family-

owned business displays more than 3,500 frames and sunglasses from brands like Coach, Kate Spade, Ray-Ban, and Tom Ford.

GLENVIEW This full-

BEST LOCAL JEWELRY STORE (City)

Winifred Grace Shop handmade necklaces, rings, and more designed in Chicago.

BEST LOCAL JEWELRY STORE (Suburbs)

Christopher Duquet Fine Jewelry

EVANSTON The require-

ments for working at Christopher Duquet Fine Jewelry? “Must love jewelry making, must be a master craftsperson, must be awesome.”

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING (Suburbs)

Country Classics

GLENVIEW When you

shop here, you know your man will be well dressed for the rest of summer and beyond.

BEST NATIONAL JEWELRY STORE

service interior design firm operates a retail store featuring furniture, accessories, and gifts.

Tiffany & Co.

Peachtree Place

BEST SHOPPING CENTER/MALL (City)

11 rooms filled with lamps, prints, accent furniture, fine crystal, and more, plus the standalone children’s store Little Peach.

Block 37

NORTHFIELD Go explore

BEST LINGERIE

Chantilly Lace

WILMETTE The team at

Chantilly Lace believes that “the right lingerie and sleepwear change not only your look, but your outlook.”

Nothing beats that little blue box.

You can easily spend a full day here exploring the five stories of shops, cafes, and more.

BEST SHOPPING CENTER/MALL (Suburbs)

Westfield Old Orchard

SKOKIE The outdoor

shopping center features stores like Anthropologie, Bloomingdale’s, Crate & Barrel, and J.Crew, plus restaurants like Frontera Fresco, and Roka Akor.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 51

PHOTO CREDIT

52 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

YOUR ULTIM ATE GUIDE TO THE

PHOTO COURTESY CREDIT OF CHOOSE CHICAGO

Lakefront Sun’s out! But why sink those buns into the same old stretches of sand (we’re talking to you, Oak Street and North Avenue!) when there are so many more to explore? To help you broaden your horizons, we combed the coast from the tip of the North Shore to the seat of the South Side—and took a few road trips, too. Without further ado, we present the absolute best beaches in the city and beyond. BY DANIELLE BRAFF M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 53

HARTIGAN BEACH PARK FOR PRIVACY

H A RTIGA N BE ACH PA R K , ROGER S PA R K

Nestled at the end of Albion Street in Rogers Park, this gem is as hidden as they come—chances are you’ll have the entire expanse to yourself.

(Before you start to get freaked out, rest assured that a bike path, a playground, a nice big lawn for picnics, and an ever-present paletas vendor keep it from veering into creepy-deserted territory.) But if you ever want to a) pretend you own a private beach, b) make the most of your summer romance without scarring small children for life, or c) throw a summer BBQ that’s blissfully stranger free, this is the address you’re going to want to plug into your GPS. 1050 W. Albion Ave., Chicago, 773-262-8605 FOR KIDDOS

31ST STR EET BE ACH, BR IDGEPORT

Clean bathrooms? Check. Easy parking? Check. Relatively quiet surrounds with tons of space to spread out? Check. A gigantic adjoining playground with a water feature? Quadruple check. Add to that fantastic views of the city, a stellar concession stand, really calm water, a gorgeous lawn for picnics, tons of lifeguards, and even more ice-cream vendors, and you’ve got family nirvana. Truly, it’s like the city asked a bunch of parents to list all the features they’d want in a beach—and then granted Every. Single. Request. 3100 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, 773-363-2225 FOR SOCIALIZING

Perhaps it’s the concession stand’s frozen margaritas that make people here so happy and outgoing. Or maybe it’s the immaculate sand (no garbage, no problems?). Whatever it is, no one’s complaining. During the week, the clandestine cove is a quiet retreat from the busy streets of Chicago, but on weekends—especially Sunday Funday—it fills to the gills with the beautiful Boystown crew (hence its awesome nickname, Gay Beach).

And while the people-watching is off the charts, don’t expect to sit quietly and peep the crowd­—this is a place to come and make friends. 4600 N. Lakeshore Dr., Chicago, 312-74-BEACH FOR PUPS

GILLSON DOG BE ACH, W ILMETTE

The water is ca lm, the long, fenced-in stretch is begging for a game of fetch, and even the bitches are friendly (see what we did there?). Assuming your pooch is tagged 54 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

GILLSON DOG BEACH

TOM MCDONALD PHOTOGRAPHY @TMCD.CHI; LEFT: DAWN MUELLER

OSTER M A N BE ACH, EDGEWATER

Q+A: Victoria Arciniega, Chicago Lifeguard

We quizzed the eight-year veteran on everything you ever wanted to know about the men and women in red—and the beaches they preside over.

Besides the ones we’ve listed, what’s your favorite beach? North Avenue: It’s got great energy, fun people and the food at the concession stand is fantastic. For something quieter and more family-friendly, I’d recommend the 41st Street beach, where I work.

What’s the best time to arrive? Right when they open at 11a.m.. During the week, it’s pretty empty until 2 or 3, but on the weekend it gets crowded from noon until closing at 7:15 p.m.

Other than sunscreen, what’s the one thing everyone should bring to the beach? Gatorade. Staying hydrated is as important as sun protection.

What’s the most annoying beachgoer habit? Feeding the seagulls!

What rule is most often broken?

Swimming out past the lifeguard boats.

People love to do it, but this rule is in place for their safety.

Have you ever had to save someone’s life? Unfortunately, yes.

Do the lifeguards hang out after work? We’ve got visions of Baywatch here... Ha! All the time. We usually end up at someone’s house for a chilled-out BBQ. Speaking of Baywatch, do you get to keep those awesome red suits? Yep!

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 55

RIVIERA BEACH, LAKE GENEVA

Road Trippin’

These vacation destinations may feel far-flung, but each is within just two hours of Chicago.

Translation: You’ll be pulling into the parking lot before you hear the words “Are we there yet?”

RIVIERA BEACH Lake Geneva, Wisconsin Drive time: 1 hr 35 mins Surrounded by downtown Lake Geneva, this is the ideal beach for plopping yourself down for the day, picnic in tow. Chicagoans have been weekending here for generations, and nothing much has changed, from the floating docks kids love to the boat tours for special occasion evenings. Or have an active beach day: rent speedboats, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards from Clear Water Outdoor, Elmer’s, Gage Marine, and other vendors. Stay late to take advantage of Moonlight Movies on the Beach July 11 and August 8, when Geneva Theater will be setting up a big screen in the sand. Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI, 262-248-3673

MILLER BEACH Northwest Indiana Drive time: 45 mins To the chagrin of anyone who lives near this gorgeous beach in Gary, Indiana, the secret is out: This place is a bonafide hidden gem. An easy day trip from Chicago, the calm, quiet stretch of sand feels like a true vacation spot. Situated at the edge of a forest within the Indiana Dunes, it’s far enough away from industrial Northwest Indiana that you’ll forget where you are—unless you happen to glance up at the Chicago skyline, just off in the distance. Lake Michigan & the Indiana Dunes, Gary, IN

56 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

GUSTAVO VALDIVIAI; TOP: CSFOTOIMAGES

OVAL BEACH Saugatuck, Michigan Drive time: 2 hrs Recently rated one of the 25 best beaches in the world by Conde Nast Traveler, there’s no denying this shoreline’s star quality. Kids will love getting there, as it’s best reached by the country’s only hand-pulled chain ferryboat, which departs from nearby Saugatuck and crosses the Kalamazoo River. Though the beach feels secluded, it boasts amenities including concessions and lifeguards, and temperatures reach the mid-70s in August. It’s spectacularly beautiful, too—all white, powdery sand, soaring sand dunes, and expansive skies that make for jaw-dropping sunsets.

690 Perryman St, Saugatuck, MI, 269-857-2603

(head to the Park District Administration Office in the Wilmette Village Hall for that; it’s $25 for residents and $150 if you live outside Wilmette) and vaccinated (keep written proof in your car just in case), you can let him run and swim free with his buds to his heart’s delight. South end of Gillson Park, Sheridan Road and Harbor Drive, Wilmette, 847-256-9656 FOR PRETENDING YOU’RE ON VACAY

OA K WOOD BE ACH, BRONZE V ILLE

The outdoor shower is the first hint that Chicago’s newest beach is unlike the others. Start easing yourself into vacation mode by ordering some tacos from the Lunch Box, the on-site Mexican-style restaurant, then settled in for a day (or evening) of super cool music or a fun festival, as this beach loves to party. They host frequent concerts, including Louis the Child, James Murphy, Cashmere Cat, and more. 4100 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, 312-742-5121 FOR ROMANTIC STROLLS

ILLINOIS BE ACH STATE PA R K , ZION

This is a nearly 7-mile stretch along Lake Michigan, encompassing the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state. There’s no entrance or parking fee to enter the preserve, and you can start by hiking or cycling through trails. (Want to camp? It’s just $25.) Even better, the beach access is so secluded that it will feel private (but it’s not), and the water is crystal clear. 1 Lake Front Dr., Zion, 847-662-4811 FOR SWIMMING

GLENCOE BE ACH, GLENCOE

This small, private beach (yep—that means there are entrance fees) has attentive lifeguards at all times. There are sailboats, paddleboats, and kayaks to rent, or you can just hop in the calm, clean water and swim.

This one doesn’t tend to get crowded (read: entrance fees), and it has a concession stand selling fantastic pizza, plus an adjoining playground that attracts tons of families. 55 Hazel Ave., Glencoe, 847-835-3030 FOR PRETENDING TO STUDY

MONTROSE BE ACH, UPTOW N

ILLINOIS BEACH STATE PARK

They lure you in with the free Wi-Fi. Then they entice you by selling pierogi at the beach restaurant­—you know, to sustain you for a long day of, uh, critical thinking. As for the best views ever? That’s just a bonus. At this gorgeous beach, parking usually fills up by 11 a.m., which should motivate you to start studying here by 9. They’ve got bathrooms plus a concession stand where you can keep the caffeine going all day, and you’ll want to make the most of your study breaks by jogging along the running path, jumping into a game of beach volleyball, or renting a jet ski, paddleboard, or kayak.

Into birding? There just so happens to be a gorgeous beachside sanctuary where red-winged blackbirds, Wilson’s warblers, and American redstarts fly free. 4400 N. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, 312-74-BEACH M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 57

PROMOTION

It’s not what you know, but who you know.

Introducing the Faces of Chicago.

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

WELCOME TO THE FIRST ANNUAL FACES OF CHICAGO. On the following pages, we introduce you to the people behind the businesses that make our city unique. Every day we cross paths with countless people as we go about our busy lives—some we interact with, while others we merely pass as they peek into a shop window or send a text. Many of them are the ones who make our favorite local businesses grow and thrive, so take a moment to really come face to face with these important Chicago personalities. Because when you think about it, every business is a people business.

PHOTOS BY TODD ROSENBERG

58 J U LY/A U G U S T M A K E I T B E T T E R

PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACES OF

Architecture, Custom Home Building, & Remodeling Anthony Perry and Tony Perry, A. Perry Homes A . Per r y Hom e s a r e t he a r c h it e c t s , bu i lder s , a nd remodelers of choice for families who believe that making their dream home should be worr y free and designed for their needs in mind. Whether your project consists of updating a condo in the city, a new gourmet kitchen, a whole house renovation, or a custom home, our team is ready to design and build something special for you.

With over 30 years of award winning experience and a reput ation t hat is u n matched i n t he i ndust r y, we are uniquely qua lified to ser ve you best. A llow us to demonstrate the value the design build can offer.

1220 Washington Ave., Wilmette, IL 847.549.0668 l Anthony@APerryHomes.com APerryHomes.com

FACES OF

Chicago

PROMOTION

2018

THE FACE OF

Setting the Standard of Excellence Clifford Law Offices Robert A. Clifford founded Clifford Law Offices in 1984, and it has grown to a nationally recognized personal i nju r y/w r ong f u l de at h f i r m ba sed i n C h ic a go t h at consistently receives multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements. U.S. News-Best Lawyers selected Mr. Clifford as one of the top in the area of plaintiffs’ personal injury litigation. He is an Illinois Super Lawyer, Illinois Leading Lawyer and one of Chicago’s “30 Toughest Lawyers” as named by Chicago Magazine. One of Bob’s most notable

cases is the $29.6 million verdict for Rachel Barton, an internationally-acclaimed violinist who was severely inju red by a Metra tra in. In 2014, Bob wa s the lead negotiator in the $1.2 billion dollar settlement of numerous 9/11 property damage claims following the collapse of the Twin Towers in New York. Robert Clifford is committed to pursuing justice for his clients.

120 North LaSalle St., 31st Floor, Chicago, IL 312.899.9090 l rclifford@cliffordlaw.com

PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACE OF

Design Mick De Giulio, de Giulio kitchen design In the hierarchy of the home, the kitchen has reached the top of the list for many homeowners. Mick De Giulio, founder and owner of de Giulio kitchen design, has been at the forefront of the kitchen’s rise to importance over the more than forty years that he has been creating beautiful kitchens. Widely recognized for his distinctive residential projects, w ith insta llations not only throughout the Chicago area, but across the US and abroad, De Giulio has authored two books on kitchens and design, and his work is frequently published internationally by leading design

magazines. His portfolio has evolved to include not only kitchens, but all parts of the home, as well as commercial and product design. His award-winning collection of sinks for Kallista (www.kallista.com) and recently completed 11,000 sq. ft. Inspiration Studio at Abt Electronics in Glenview (www.abt.com) are just two great examples.

1121 Central Ave., Wilmette, IL 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 121, Chicago, IL 847.256.8833 l info@degiuliodesign.com

FACES OF

Chicago

PROMOTION

2018

THE FACES OF

Family owned Depot Nuevo on the North Shore Depot Nuevo Rob and Ann Garrison opened Depot Nuevo in 2007. Depot Nuevo is a family owned, award winning Mexican food, Tequila bar and Brew Pub located downtown Wilmette in the Historic Train Depot. The depth of knowledge and long years of experience sets this team apart and has resulted in many awards including Depot Nuevo listed as one of the best Tequila bars in the country. All of the management team and many of the servers and bartenders

have participated in brewing beer in our own brewery and touring tequila farms and distilleries in Mexico-the result is a much more detailed understanding of the process and characteristics of the different tequilas. Come try a flight of beer or tequila!

1139 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL 847.251.3111 l Rob@thenoodlecafe.com

PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACES OF

Wealth Management and Financial Planning Felicia Davis O’Malley, Eastgate Capital Advisors, LLC As a lighthouse may help a sailboat navigate by avoiding rocks and finding a safe port, Felicia and the team at Eastgate Capital Advisors light a path to a secure future for their clients and families. Every client has unique goals. Eastgate partners with clients to navigate to the future they envision. “It is very rewarding”, says Felicia “to show clients and their families that they can realistically achieve their life goals. I am honored to help clients plan for retirement, college, house purchases, grandchildren and everything else on their unique journey.”

Eastgate uses an ensemble approach to deliver financial pla nning a nd asset ma nagement ser v ices. The tea m is comprised of seasoned professionals with differing competencies and disciplines. Felicia and her husband John are both multi-generation North Shore residents and raised their family in Winnetka.

560 Green Bay Rd., Suite 101, Winnetka, IL 312.690.4902 l fomalley@eastgateca.com

FACES OF

Chicago

PROMOTION

2018

THE FACE OF

Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medicine Josie Tenore M.D., MSc, BCIM, FreshSkin Medical Spa & Wellness Center “Beauty begins with Beautiful Skin, and Beautiful Skin begins with a Healthy Body.” Dr. Josie’s philosophy is rooted in personalized beauty and functional medicine, serving Chicago’s North Shore community since 1998.

achieved without some investigation into one’s genetics, hormone and other wellness panels. She appreciates that patients no longer want to take drugs, and has created supplements to help patients optimize their health.

A self- proclaimed “restoration artist”, she believes that everyone deserves to look better, as long as they look like themselves and not some Holly wood distortion of who they were. She recognizes however that sometimes beauty, for both men and women, cannot be completely

FreshSkin Medical Spa & Wellness Center is dedicated to true health and wellness of the skin and body. Their goal is to help both men and women combat the effects of aging in order to look, feel and function at their personal best.

595 Elm Place, Suite 208, Highland Park, IL 847.681.8821 l myfreshskin.com

PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACES OF

50 Years of the Best Painting in Chicago Jeff Hester & Stephen Hester, Hester Painting & Decorating The ow ners a nd designers of the f inest homes in the Chicago area turn to Hester Painting & Decorating for an extensive repertoire of high-end finishes as well as the highest quality painting, furniture and cabinetr y refinishing, and paperhanging. Widely regarded by top designers and architects as the experts in painting and decorating, Hester Painting & Decorating creates walls that our customers often refer to as works of art.

We are delighted to be celebrating our 50th Anniversary this year. As a third-generation, family-owned business we remain true to the values on which our business was built.

When Tom Hester started this company in 1968 his mission was simply “to be the highest quality painting contractor around.� That mission still remains our top priority 50 years later.

Our service-oriented and award-winning team now spans residentia l and commercia l painting as well as home maintenance. We are honored to win Best of 2018 for both Interior Painting and Exterior Painting categories, and we are proud that we are the only company to win the Painting category every year it has been on the ballot!

7340 N. Monticello Ave., Skokie, IL 847.677.5130 l shester@hesterdecorating.com

PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACE OF

Learning Through Play Sheridan Turner, Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago In the time it takes you to read this article, a 1-yearold child’s brain will have formed more than 50 million new synapses.

Sheridan Turner understands the power and importance of giving young children the opportunity to maximize their brains at a very early age. In 2018, she marks her 20th year leading Kohl Children’s Museum, one of the nation’s leading institutions designed to build a foundation for a lifetime of learning through one simple tool: Play.

Now, she is developing a playbook to grow the Museum

even more, adding new exhibit and flexible use space. She is also pioneering a pop-up museum concept that can be taken directly to low-income communities, providing children free playful learning opportunities right where they live.

Her vision for the Museum is simple: Be an essential leader to inspire every child. After all, childhood doesn’t get a second chance.

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, IL 847.832.6600 l info@kcmgc.org

PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACE OF

Joan McCarthy Lasonde

JACLYN SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Loving One, Fighting for 18,000 Five years ago, Joan and her family made the important decision on behalf of one abandoned little girl, Kaylie, a 4 year old foster child. What started as an effort to help one child, now drive’s Joan to advocate for our most vulnerable. There are over 18,000 children in Illinois’ foster care system and 3,347 are waiting to be adopted.

fa l l on becom ing a foster pa rent , CA SA member, or temporary respite. It is one of the reasons she is running for State Senate in the 9th District. Because someone has to fight for these forgotten children.

It’s the best kept secret – or maybe the worst, as only a few talk about how badly these children need a home. Joan hosts educational meetings including one this upcoming

912 Sherman Ave. Evanston, IL joanforillinois.com

Kaylie and her foster mom, Joan McCarthy Lasonde.

Paid for by Joan for Illinois

FACES OF

Chicago

PROMOTION

2018

THE FACES OF

Main Street, Evanston Experiential Retail Remember these words: Experiential retail. Brick-andmor ta r shops use this exciting new trend to prov ide engaging in-store experiences that captivate customers, enticing them to visit and come back for more—and by prioritizing innovation, collaboration, and community, Main Street in Evanston is a thriving example of the trend’s success. The passionate business owners here are storytellers first and foremost, treating their customers to personalized experiences that translate to so much more

than just a shopping trip. From wine to wisteria, beer on tap to textiles and so much more, you can find it all on Main Street in Evanston.

Counterclockwise from seated: Diana Hammond, Wine Goddess ; Cesar Marron, Sketchbook Brewing Company; Amalia Malos, Evanston Stitchworks; Steve Schwartz, Campagnola; Tim Peterson, Squeezebox; Louise Rosenberg, Cultivate Urban Rainforest & Gallery

PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACE OF

Wedding and Event Planning Megan Estrada, North Shore Weddings & Events Megan Estrada, of North Shore Weddings & Events, is probably the most notable name in event planning in the Chicago North Shore. Since opening her company, in 2011, she has won “Best Event Planner” with Make it Better in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Recently, Partyslate.com named her the “Top 30 Event Planners” in the country. She’s known for her understated elegant design, strong management skills and fun personality. The most talked about events, in Chicago, are often a result of her planning.

Nor t h Shore Wedd i ng s & E vent s prov ides f u l l a nd partial event planning for smaller home parties to large glamourous affairs. Estrada believes, “ever y event is unique, just like the people planning it”, and therefore every event gets personalized design and management, while following a strong process, to make the planning easy, fun and organized.

990 Green Bay Rd., Suite 2, Winnetka, IL 312.546.2360 l megan@northshoreevents.com

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

PROMOTION

THE FACES OF American Red Cross Home Fire Responders and Smoke Alarm Installers Celena Roldán (CEO), Morris Bowie, Rich Arons, Angie Chiesa, Candance Averyhart Home fires are the most common disaster the American Red Cross responds to, killing seven people each day across the country. The statistics are staggering. A recent survey by the Red Cross found that many Americans have a false sense of security about their family’s ability to escape a home fire, even though they haven’t taken key steps to keep their loved ones safe. Red Cross home fire responders, most of whom are volunteers, are on-call 24/7 to respond to an average of three to four home fires that take place every single day. And, dedicated volunteers who believe that every smoke alarm is a chance to save a life, install free smoke alarms across the Chicago and northern Illinois region. Join us in our effort to make northern Illinois safer! Volunteer or donate at redcross.org.

2200 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL 312.729.6100 l redcross.org

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The North Shore’s Finest Roofer Cedar Roofing Company, LLC Cedar Roofing Company, LLC has been proudly serving Chicago’s North Shore since 1982. From humble beginnings installing cedar shakes, CRC has expanded its roofing services to include asphalt, slate, tile, metal, and f lat roofing. We’re also very proud to be considered the area’s finest custom metalwork and gutter contractor. Our team of professionals view every job as an opportunity to establish a new relationship, working to help you protect your biggest investment-your home. We bring our expertise and attention to detail to every project, large and small. CRC works to give you the best experience possible by listening to your needs, delivering on promises, and providing exceptional products and craftsmanship. The result is providing you with a roofing system that we can be proud of and that you can rely on for years to come.

27820 N. Irma Lee Circle, Lake Forest, IL 847.247.4400 l info@cedarroofingcompany.com

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PROMOTION

FACES OF

Chicago 2018

THE FACES OF

TH

Innovation in Real Estate

Inn

Compass Real Estate

Com

Compass’ mission to help everyone find their place in the world has expanded to the North Shore where Rachael Mann leads the Winnetka office as Managing Director.

Compa ss t a kes a hig h-tech, hig h-touch approach, combining the best agents, a top-tier creative studio, and unparalleled reach and resources. With Mann at the helm of the Winnetka office, knowledge & care for the community is unparalleled. Mann became a Managing Director in 2015 at CONLON, which was acquired by Compass in May of this year. Her dedication to helping agents provide their clients with the best service possible is unwavering a nd she believes that w ith Compass technolog y at their fingertips, agents will be better advisors to their clients. As the sixth largest brokerage nationally, after being founded five years ago, Compass is positioned to lead the Chicagoland and North Shore real estate industry in innovation.

Com worl Man Com comb and u helm comm Dire Com agen is un tech advis natio is po real

565 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, IL 847.242.7600 l rachael.mann@compass.com

565 847.

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Ilene Chase Design

Ilen

New Studio Opening

New

Nestled in the heart of Wilmette, Ilene Chase Design Studio is the dream and vision of Ilene Chase since the onset of establishing her Interior Design business 25 years ago. Ilene and her team bring to the North Shore, a unique opportunity for clients to step into this design oasis and create their dream space. The studio is filled with one of a kind pieces and encourages clients to come in and experience this boutique-style collaboration. Ilene Chase continues to travel the world to stay on top of trends and to bring back truly unique designs to the Chicagoland area.

Nest Stud onse ago. I oppo creat kind this b trave truly

1218 Washington Avenue, Wilmette, IL 847.828.0305 l info@ilenechasedesign.com

1218 847.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 71

Destinations

LO C A L G E TAWAYS A N D FA R- F LU N G J O U R N E YS TO SAT I S F Y YO U R WA N D E R LU S T RM Champagne Salon’s Parisian patio.

RM CHAMPAGNE SALON

SUMMER IN THE CITY Riddle us this: What has the potential to be as fun as a full-fledged vacation but requires little planning, zero packing, and a heck of a lot less stress? (Turn the page for the answer.) BY CARA SULLIVAN

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 73

Destinations / GO

A DAYCATION! To that end, we asked three Chicagoland influencers to

map out morning-to-night itineraries in the neighborhoods they call home: Evanston, the West Loop, and Hinsdale. This summer, we challenge you to check out all three.

EVANSTON: Nina Kavin

Have a leisurely breakfast at either of CURT’S CAFÉ’S two locations (curtscafe.org). Their apricot scones are amazing, and so is their mission: The restaurant on Central St. helps young men in at-risk situations acquire life and job skills; the Dempster St. location works with women.

Nina Kavin is a writer and community activist who co-founded Dear Evanston, a social media platform and action-oriented entity that seeks to engage Evanstonians in constructive dialogue and action around issues of racial equity and youth gun violence and to tell the stories of Evanstonians whose voices are less-often heard. She holds a B.A. in English literature from the University of Chicago and has worked on racial and social justice issues since her 20s. Kavin and her family have lived in Evanston for 21 years.

After breakfast, browse the aisles at BOOKENDS

AND BEGINNINGS (bookendsandbeginnings.com),

Evanston’s independent bookstore owned by Nina Barrett and her husband, Jeff Garrett.

Head outside to spend a few hours exploring EVANSTON’S LAKEFRONT. My favorite spots are right around Northwestern’s campus, or farther north at Lighthouse Beach.

When you’re ready to cool off, it’s time for ice cream at C&W MARKET (1901 Church St., 847833-9367). Clarence and Wendy Weaver, the Curt’s Cafe

store’s community-minded owners, are some of the friendliest people around.

Next, pay a visit to the SHOREFRONT LEGACY CENTER (shorefrontlegacy.org). Founded

by Evanstonian Dino Robinson in 1995, Shorefront archives artifacts, photographs, and family memorabilia that depict the lives of African Americans on Chicago’s North Shore.

For lunch, make your way to PRAIRIE JOE’S, a funky retro restaurant owned by Aydin Dincer (prairiejoes.com). Eating here is like eating in your coolest friend’s kitchen, and the food is hearty and delicious.

After lunch, pop into FAMILY FOCUS for a quick history lesson (2010 Dewey Ave., 847475-7570). Built in 1905, the building holds an enormous historical and present-day significance for Evanston’s black community. It housed the city’s only African American school during the years of segregation and was the first school in Evanston to allow black teachers (you can see a fascinating exhibit about this

WEST LOOP: Leyla Tran

Start your day with coffee at THE ALLIS, located in the Soho House Chicago (theallis.com). It’s a gorgeous old warehouse with so much character. Or, if you prefer tea, head to SAWADA COFFEE for the best matcha latte in town (sawadacoffee

Leyla Tran is a full-time working mom who blogs about living in Chicago and traveling with her family on SecondCityMom.com.

When she’s not working or blogging, you can find her mining the city for hidden gems with her family or hanging out at a cute coffee shop with friends.

74 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

.com). Nothing makes me happier than sipping this drink while walking around the neighborhood.

Stroll over to the FULTON MARKET DISTRICT, just a few blocks north of Randolph St. (explorefultonmarket.com). This is Chicago’s former meatpacking district, and you’ll still see meatpacking trucks dotting the street. It’s a cool scene and a very trendy neighborhood full of brand-new galleries, shops, bars, and restaurants.

Have lunch with a side of art at PARLOR PIZZA (parlorchicago.com). Chicago is known for its murals, and the West Loop is full of them. One of my favorites is the pizza wings mural at this restaurant—but if pizza’s not your thing, head to FEDERALES for tacos ( federaleschicago.com).

There’s an awesome wing mural there, too!

After lunch, shop till you drop at RANDOLPH STREET MARKET (randolphstreetmarket.com).

This urban flea market is full of cool vintage merchandise and unique finds. Check it out July 28-29 or August 25-26.

Hungry again? You’ve got options—there are so many amazing restaurants in the West Loop. My neighbors and I joke that our kids are all going to grow up to be foodies. GIRL AND THE

COURTESY OF CURT’S CAFE

Sawada Coffee

Five & Dime

HINSDALE: Paul Virant

COURTESTY OF FIVE & DIME; VISTRO: KELLY HOWE; TONI PATISSERIE: ROOTS OF LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

on the building’s first floor). Before you leave, stop at NOIR D’EBENE CHOCOLAT ET PATISSERIE, located in the basement (noirdebene.com).

Owner Journey Shannon’s tiny “Skye’s Coconut Macaroons” are the best I’ve tasted.

Ready for dinner? FIVE & DIME is the place (fiveanddimeevanston.com). Husband-and-wife team Laura Van Dorf and Dan Kelch serve up eclectic fare and great drinks, and the rooftop deck makes you feel like you’re on vacation.

Finally, see a show at the FLEETWOODJOURDAIN THEATRE (927 Noyes St.; 847-866-5915).

Housed in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, FJT offers an annual summertime season of African American and African diaspora-centered storytelling. This summer’s plays include From the Mississippi Delta by Endesha Ida Mae Holland, Topdog/Underdog by Suzan-Lori Parks, and Crowns by Regina Taylor.

GOAT (girlandthegoat.com) and THE PUBLICAN

(thepublicanrestaurant.com) never disappoint, but if you’re craving something specific try GREEN STREET SMOKED MEATS for BBQ (green streetsmokedmeats.com ), MONTEVERDE for Italian (monteverdechicago.com), or MOMOTORO for Japanese and sushi (momotorochicago.com).

After dinner, go Parlor Pizza to RM CHAMPAGNE SALON for something sparkling (rmchampagnesalon.com). It’s hidden down a welllit alley, but opens up to a beautiful courtyard that makes you feel like you’re somewhere in Europe.

Grab a coffee at CAFÉ LA FORTUNA (cafelafor tuna.com). The owner is third-generation coffee grower, exporter and roaster, and all his beans come from the same plantation in Chiapas that his grandfather started in 1908. Then head to TONI PATISSERIE & CAFÉ for a pastry—it doesn’t get much better than the almond croissant—then cross the tracks to Burlington Park to sit by the fountain and take in the scenery (tonipatisserie.com).

Or, if you’re in the mood for a full breakfast, head to PAGE’S (26 ½ E. Hinsdale Ave.; 630-323-9058). Lately, I’ve been doing the ham & cheese omelet with hot giardiniera or the corned beef hash with some over easy eggs. And I always get the hash browns— they’re some of the best around.

When you’re ready to work off breakfast, head for FULLERSBURG WOODS in nearby Oak Brook to hike the nature trails that run alongside Salt Creek. Kids will love the nature center, and history buffs shouldn’t miss GRAUE MILL AND MUSEUM, once a stop on the Underground Railroad.

After all that exercise, pop into YORK TAVERN (also in Oak Brook) for a cheeseburger and a cold one (yorktavernoakbrook .com). York is the oldest bar and restaurant in DuPage county and was a Pony Express stop in the 1800s. It’s also where Coach Q

Paul Virant is the chef and owner of Vie, his flagship restaurant in Western Springs, which earned a Michelin star in 2011, and Vistro, in Hinsdale. Virant’s accolades include 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2011 finalist nominations for the James Beard Foundation Award’s Best Chef: Great Lakes; 2007 Best New Chef by Food & Wine; 2007 Jean Banchet Award for Culinary Excellence as Top Celebrity Chef; and 2005 Best New Chef

by Chicago magazine. He also has competed on Food Network’s Iron Chef America. Most recently, in 2017, Virant launched Jar Sessions, a locally produced, small-batch line of pickled and preserved products, collaborating with Midwest farmers to create the Jar Sessions collection of farm-to-fork products.

Vistro

comes after a home Hawks game.

Now back to Hinsdale for some shopping.

This town has a ton of cool boutiques—my wife loves STOCKHOLM OBJECTS (stockholmob jects.com) and ALIXANDRA (shopalix.com), and SWEET WILLIAM (sweetwilliaminc.com) is my go-to store for special gifts—they have beautiful, timeless couture and a really well-curated shoe selection.

When you’re ready for a cocktail and some oysters, make your way to VISTRO (vistrorestaurant.com). My old standby is the G&T, but we have some great frozen cocktails dispensed from our frosé machine.

Stay for dinner, or grab sushi at NABUKI — it’s the best in town (nabukihinsdale.com).

Toni Patisserie & Café

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PROMOTION

Watching a Match at Oak Brook Polo Club is the Most Fun You’ve Never Had

Eight players. Eight ponies. One ball. All the emotions. If you haven’t yet experienced a polo match at the Oak Brook Polo Club, you are long overdue — big hats, green fields and charging horses all make for a memorable afternoon. BY JESSICA SUSS

O

AKBROOK POLO CLUB, or “Polo

Town” as insiders know it, is currently in its 96th year as one of the oldest operating polo clubs in America today. The 2018 polo season is also special as it marks the 40th anniversary since the last U.S. Open Polo Championship, which was held at Oak Brook in 1978, of which Oak Brook has won six of (‘60, ‘64, ‘65, ‘67, ‘71 and ‘73).

Founded in 1922, by Chicago businessman Paul Butler, OBPC has hosted innumerable polo games and stars from around the world (and Queen Elizabeth II even attended a game once).

While this season’s polo schedule doesn’t guarantee a celebrity sighting (though there’s every possibility you’ll get lucky!), there is a definite chance you’ll have a smashing Sunday afternoon.

“It is our mission to make polo accessible, affordable and memorable for everyone who attends,” said Danny O’Leary, Managing Director of Oak Brook Polo Club. “Whether you are looking for a fun family activity or get-together with friends, Oak Brook Polo

a ‘must add’ to your summer bucket list.”

And as a massive bonus, all ticket holders will have access to Drake Oak Brook Hotel bars, where you can sip on a Classic Pimm’s Chukker (a proper British summertime tipple) a frosty flute of Veuve Clicquot Champagne or the new Polo Pony (Polo’s Moscow Mule). Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse Oak Brook is also partnering with OBPC to be the official post-match destination where you can hang with players and fans.

Keep an eye out for special events and

Don’t miss any of these upcoming matches: June 24th, Drake Challenge Cup (USA vs. Mexico) & Special Olympics 50th Anniversary Celebration.

July 15th, Butler Challenge Cup – Horses and Horsepower* July 22nd, Heartland Cup & Jaguar Concours, Cats & Ponies Soiree August 5th, Caribbean Cup (USA vs. Jamaica) August 19th, Chicago Polo Cup & Horses & Hops Beer Festival Ticket prices are as follows: $10.00 per person for lawn seating; $45.00 per car for tailgating; $40.00 VIP (includes field-site seating in Saddle Club and champagne during divot stomp); $85.00 Brunch and VIP / Saddle Club access; $300 Saddle Club Reserved Tables (seating for up to 8); $350 Saddle Club Box (elevated seating overlooking field for up to 6); $650.00 Private Field Side Tent; $750.00 Saddle Club Skyboxes (for up to 16). *Make It Better is a proud media sponsor of this match.

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activities taking place throughout the season, including youth polo matches, pre-match Sunday Polo Brunch hosted by The Drake Oak Brook Hotel, best tailgate contests from CutWater Spirits and hat contests. And, regardless of when you attend, snag yourself Saddle Club access and you’re guaranteed to catch the action in comfort and style as you luxuriate on the chicest outdoor furniture courtesy of Room & Board or elevated box seating giving spectators a great view of the action.

Out & About

BO ENA BUDZY SKA, @GORALKA102

C A L E N DA R / T H E AT E R / D I N E / B E T T E R M A K E R S

EVENT

60th Annual Chicago Air and Water Show LISTING ON PAGE 77

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Calendar

T H E AT E R / CO M E DY / F I L M / M U S I C / G A L L E R I E S / M U S E U M S / E V E N T S

NICOLE SCHNITZLER

H IG H LIG HT S

Editors’ Favorite Make It Better is a proud media sponsor of this event:

EVENT JULY 21 The Art Institute of Chicago Block Party Celebrate the impact of the museum’s globally acclaimed collection on American culture with a day of festivities for all ages. The Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600, artic.edu THEATER OPENS JUNE 30 Heartbreak Hotel This jukebox musical follows the story of Elvis Presley in the early years of his career as he and Sam Phillips create the music that will forever change their lives. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut, 800-775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com JULY 3-22 Waitress Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, this production tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker

with dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage.

Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph, 800-775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com JULY 17-29 The Color Purple Based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prizewinning novel, this story is adapted for the stage by Tony winner Marsha Norman, with music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray. The Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., 800-775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com

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CLOSES AUGUST 5 The Roommate A comical roommate mismatch leads to a surprising and touching friendship in this new comedy about how early-life choices lead to midlife challenges—and unexpected rewards. Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., 312-3351650, steppenwolf.org AUGUST 13 Broadway in Chicago Free Summer Concert This year’s gratis show will preview performances from Dear Evan Hansen, Charlie and the

Chocolate Factory, Miss Saigon, and more.

Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., 800-775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com AUGUST 18 Dance for Life Chicago’s premiere dance companies perform for an evening benefiting the Dancers’ Fund, an initiative providing financial assistance to dance professionals experiencing critical health issues. The Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., 312-341-2300, auditoriumtheatre.org

Guests will enjoy a parade of, yes, Ferraris, before the finals of the Butler Challenge Cup tournament as the Friends of Conservation hosts its annual fundraising event. Oak Brook Polo Club, 2606 York Rd., Oak Brook, oakbrook poloclub.com/butler challengecup

COMEDY

MUSIC

AUGUST 3 Whoopi Spend an evening with actor and comedian Whoopi Goldberg, who is set to perform her cuttingedge comedy show on a very limited-edition tour.

Ravinia, 418 Sheridan Rd. Highland Park, 847266-5000, Ravinia.org

JUNE 30-JULY 1 Neil Young Jam Productions presents a special twonight performance with Neil Young, the iconic singer-songwriter best known for songs like “Harvest Moon” and “Heart of Gold.”

Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., 312341-2300, auditorium theatre.org

AUGUST 12 Steve Martin and Martin Short Laugh the night away with these two comedy veterans, who will be gracing the Ravinia stage for a series of spoofs and evocations of some of their most beloved characters.

Ravinia, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park, 847266-5000, ravinia.org AUGUST 15 Jim Gaffigan Gaffigan’s latest tour, the Fixer Upper, delves into many of the standup comedian’s favorite topics, from family life to battles with various foodstuffs. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., 312-462-6300, msg.com/ the-chicago-theatre

JULY 8-9 Buddy Guy and Jonny Lang Rock out to the blues tunes of Chicago legend Buddy Guy and singersongwriter Jonny Lang.

Ravinia, 418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park, 847266-5000, Ravinia.org JULY 13 Kingdom Hearts Orchestra World Tour After celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Kingdom Hearts video game series in major cities, this concert series will be back on the road for a second wave of worldwide performances.

Auditorium Theatre,

COURTESY OF THE ART INSTITUTE

JULY 15 Butler Challenge Cup You’re going to want to bust out your summer finery for this one, Oak Brook Polo Club’s day of conservation, horses, and horsepower in partnership with the Ferrari Club of America and Continental AutoSports Ferrari.

50 E. Congress Pkwy., 312-341-2300, auditoriumtheatre.org JULY 15 Third Coast Percussion Gallagher Way is hosting a series of free outdoor musical performances showcasing classical, jazz, and folk artists. This night features percussion music with Grammy Award–winning ensemble Third Coast Percussion. Gallagher Way, 3637 N. Clark St., parkatwrigley.com JULY 20-JULY 22 Pitchfork Music Festival Gear up for a jampacked weekend with this music festival, which will be bringing more than 40 bands over the course of three days to Union Park. Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph

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St., pitchforkmusic festival.com AUGUST 2-5 Lollapalooza More than 170 performances will take Chicago by storm this August, when Lollapalooza celebrates its 14th year in Grant Park. Grant Park, 337 E. Randolph St., lollapalooza.com AUGUST 10-11 JAY-Z and BEYONCÉ: On the Run II Dance the night away with poweredup performances by Beyoncé and Jay-Z and specialty “On the Run II” themed cocktails by VSOP Cognac D’USSE. Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Dr., 312-235-7000, ticket master.com/OTRII

CLOSES AUGUST 11 Lake Geneva’s Music by the Lake From classic rock to orchestral works, this music series offers outdoor entertainment overlooking beautiful Geneva Lake.

Bring your own picnic or purchase food at the College Inn. Visitlakegeneva.com CLOSES AUGUST 18 Grant Park Music Festival This summerlong festival features an array of musical works, from Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet and Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”, to Broadway favorites and classic film scores. Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., 312-742-7647, grant parkmusicfestival.com

AUGUST 19 Jazz at Gallagher Way Enjoy an evening featuring three ensembles that explore defining aspects of jazz, from blues to Middle Eastern-infused rhythms. Gallagher Way, 3637 N. Clark St., parkatwrigley.com AUGUST 28 Ziggy Marley Jam along to the reggae-inspired tunes of Ziggy Marley, a six-time Grammy winner, Emmy winner, and humanitarian. Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., 312-5263851, thaliahall chicago.com

GALLERIES SATURDAYS CGN River North Gallery Tours Chicago Gallery News organizes these weekend tours, which are free

and open to the public every Saturday at 10:45 a.m. Fabcakes, 411 N. Wells, chicago gallerynews.com

human impact on the natural world. Columbia College Chicago, 600 S. Michigan Ave., 312-663-5554

JULY 13-AUGUST 31 The Chicago Project VII This bi-annual summer exhibition features the works of selected participants from this gallery’s online collection, including Barbara Diener, Jim Ferguson, and Samantha VanDeman.

Catherine Edelman Gallery, 300 W. Superior St., 312-266-2350, edelmangallery.com

JULY 20 3rd Friday Open Studios Join Bridgeport Art Center every third Friday of the month, when painters, sculptors, and photographers open up their studios with interactive demonstrations and special events. 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, 773-843-9000, bridge portart.com

OPENS JULY 19 Lucas Foglia: Human Nature From the untarnished abandon of so-called wild spaces to literal urban jungles, Lucas Foglia: Human Nature reflects on the

MUSEUMS CLOSES AUGUST 5 Endless Summer Taking the title of the classic Bruce Brown surf movie from 1966, Endless Summer offers a snapshot of the iconic

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Out & About / CALENDAR minimalism that emerged in Los Angeles in the 1960s. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., mcachicago.org CLOSES AUGUST 10 Amplified Chicago Blues Immerse yourself in the Chicago blues scene of the 1960s through the work of Raeburn Flerlage, a photographer who captured the lifestyle and practices of the city’s rich music communities. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., 312-642-4600, chicagohistory.org AUGUST 18 Sensory Saturday The Crown Family PlayLab at The Field Museum is hosting Sensory Saturdays, a sensory-friendly morning

of hands-on exploration and discovery. The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., 312-922-9410, fieldmuseum.org AUGUST 19 Stories of Survival: Object, Image, Memory This moving exhibit features photographs of personal artifacts owned by local survivors of the Holocaust and other genocides, including Armenia, Bosnia, Cambodia, Iraq, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Syria. Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, 9603 Woods Dr., Skokie, 847967-4800, ilholocaust museum.org CLOSES AUGUST 19 Arte Diseño XicágoThis exhibit examines the early

artistic involvement and influence of Mexican immigrants and artists in Chicago through artwork, photographs, and artifacts. National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St., 312-738-1503, nationalmuseum ofmexicanart.org

JULY 6-8 West Fest Featuring retailers, restaurants, artists, crafters, and more, this locally planned fest reflects the eclectic West Town community.

Chicago Ave. between Damen Ave. and Wood St., 312-850-9390, westfestchicago.com

EVENTS

JULY 11 Ragdale Ring performance: Dark Matter Jazz An evening of jazz will feature the Dark Matter String Band and music by renowned jazz percussionist Kahil El’Zabar.

Ragdale, 1230 N. Green Bay Rd., Lake Forest, 847-234-1063

THROUGH AUGUST 31 Adler Planetarium Summer Film Fest The Adler Planetarium is showcasing six of the best full dome planetarium films from around the world this summer, with topics ranging from the birth of the universe to interstellar flight.

Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., 312-922-7827, adler planetarium.org

JULY 11-15 Taste of Chicago This premier outdoor food festival showcases the diversity of Chicago’s dining

community, along with live music and activities for the entire family.

Grant Park, 337 E. Randolph St., 312-6160600, cityofchicago.org JULY 14-15 Southport Art Festival More than 75 of the city’s most diverse artists who work in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography, are highlighted in this festival. 3704 N. Southport Ave., 847926-4300, amdur productions.com JULY 15-16 World Arts and Music Festival A free, two-day event featuring art from an abundance of countries, family craft activities, international cuisine, and live music and dance performances.

Dawes Park, 1700 Sheridan Rd., Evanston, 847-448-4311, cityof evanston.org JULY 19 Green City Market Chefs BBQ More than 100 of Chicago’s top restaurants and beverage purveyors – including Frontera Grill, Bad Hunter, and Café Spiaggia—will offer tasting portions made with local, sustainable heirloom produce, heritage meats, and craft beverages sourced from Green City Market farmers at this epic midsummer soiree. Lincoln Park, 1817 N. Clark St., green citymarket.org JULY 20 Jon Lester’s NVRQT Goes Country Join Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester and other players for

THE ROOMMATE A Chicago premiere by Jen Silverman Directed by Phylicia Rashad

A comical mismatch of two roommates leads to a surprising and touching friendship.

June 21 - August 5, 2018 | Tickets start at just $20 | steppenwolf.org | 312-335-1650 2017/18 Grand Benefactors

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2017/18 Benefactors

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a barbecue buffet and country fun benefiting the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation (PCRF). Joe’s Bar, 940 W. Weed St., cubs.com/ NVRQT JULY 23 Blackbird at 20 Series with Sean Brock James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Brock will join the Blackbird team for a multicourse meal celebrating the West Loop restaurant’s 20-year anniversary. Blackbird, 312-715-0708, black birdrestaurant.com JULY 26-29 Refinery29: 29Rooms This month marks the Chicago debut of Refinery29’s 29Rooms exhibition, a collection of 29 interactive spaces that showcases

collaborations between global artists, visionaries, and meaningful causes. 1522 Hubbard St., 29rooms.com JULY 27 High School Arts Week Open House at Ragdale Fifty students from 27 area high schools will read from their creative writing projects and exhibit their artwork in this grand finale at Ragdale.

Ragdale, 1230 N. Green Bay Rd., Lake Forest, 847-234-1063 AUGUST 8-26 Chicago Tribune FOOD BOWL This three-week festival will enlist chefs and restaurants around Chicago to offer more than 100 events in various locations, featuring specialty classes, test kitchens, panels,

pop-up bars, and neighborhood tours.

Ctfoodbowl.com AUGUST 9-11 Northwestern Summer Writers’ Conference Join a community of writers at Northwestern University for a threeday celebration of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Now in its 14th year, the program includes a diverse array of workshops, panels, and literary readings. Northwestern University, 339 E. Chicago Ave., northwestern.edu AUGUST 11 Selah Freedom Volunteer Connect Meeting Meet the team behind Selah Freedom, a national organization confronting sex trafficking, and

find out how you can get involved at this volunteer meeting. selahfreedom.com/ volunteertrainings AUGUST 11-12 Chicago Botanic Garden Kite Festival Enjoy a festival dedicated to all things kite flying, complete with ice cream, beverages, and light fare. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-835-5440, chicagobotanic garden.org AUGUST 15-19 Venetian Festival in Lake Geneva Highlights of this fiveday festival include a carnival, water-ski show, lighted boat parade, and the area’s largest fireworks display

over Geneva Lake.

Visitlakegeneva.com AUGUST 18-19 60th Annual Chicago Air and Water Show Featuring military and civilian flight aerobatics, historic aircraft, simulated water rescues, and parachute teams, the Chicago Air and Water Show is one of the largest and longest-running freeadmission events of its kind. North Avenue Beach, 1600 N. Lake Shore Dr., chicago airandwatershow.us AUGUST 18-19 Malott Japanese Garden Summer Festival Learn about summer celebrations in Japan during this special weekend of activities. Listen to koto harp and taiko

drum music, enjoy traditional folk tales, and watch a tea ceremony.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-835-5440, chicago botanicgarden.org AUGUST 19 Kultura Festival This festival celebrates FilipinoAmerican culture by highlighting the best in FilipinoAmerican food and arts in Chicago and the Midwest. Emporium Arcade Bar, 2363 N. Milwaukee Ave. and Chicago Distilling Company, 2359 N. Milwaukee Ave., kulturachicago.com

February 10–August 12, 2018

STYLE. CRAFTSMANSHIP. INNOVATION. POSTURE.

Thirty-seven exceptional chairs show all.

The Art of Seating is organized by the Museum of Contemporary Art, Jacksonville, in collaboration with the Thomas H. and Diane DeMell Jacobsen Ph.D. Foundation and is toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, D.C. Design and Manufacture Attributed to Pottier & Stymus and Company (Est. 1859), New York, NY, Egyptian Revival Side Chair, c. 1875 Photo by Michael Koryta and Andrew VanStyn, Director of Acquisitions, Conservation and Photography

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Editor’s Theater Picks W E T U R N T H E S P OT L I G H T O N T H E H OT T E S T S H OW S I N TOW N .

BY ROBERT LOER ZEL

THEATER JULY 3-AUG. 26 Murder for Two One actor, Noel Carey, plays a detective who’s trying to solve a murder mystery.

The other actor, Jason Grimm, plays…everyone else. That’s the concept of this fun show, which won the Jeff Award for

best new musical in 2011, when it was at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. After charming audiences and critics in New York, it returns in this new production.

Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire, 847-634-0200, marriotttheatre.com

82 J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

JULY 10-AUG. 19 Pamplona Last year, Stacy Keach suffered a mild heart attack in the middle of his performance on opening night for this new one-man play by Jim McGrath about Ernest Hemingway in his final years. In spite of Keach’s valiant efforts, the show

was stopped and the rest of the play’s run was canceled. Now, he has recovered and is returning to the same stage for this do-over, once again directed

by Goodman’s artistic director, Robert Falls of Evanston. Goodman Theatre, 312-443-3800, goodmantheatre.org

AUG. 15-SEPT. 23 Vertigone The Chicago premiere of Qui Nguyen’s play about Vietnamese refugees plunging into the strange new land of 1970s America. The New York Times called it “a raucous comedy… that strafes just about every subject it tackles and every character

it presents.” And the playwright has called it “the anti-Miss Saigon” because it puts AsianAmerican characters at the center of the narrative instead of relegating them to supporting roles.

Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe, 847-242-6000, writers theatre.org.

GOODMAN THEATRE

Pamplona

C H I C AG O S H A K E S P E A R E T H E AT E R 2018/19 SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW! 4 AND 5 PLAY PACKAGES AVAILABLE

HAMLET AUG. 18-26 Anything Goes Cole Porter’s 1934 madcap musical features some of his most beloved tunes, including the title song, “You’re the Top,” and “I Get a Kick Out of You.” The setting is an ocean liner whose passengers include a second-rate gangster (“Public Enemy 13”) posing as missionary, an evangelist-turnednightclub-singer, and a stowaway who’s in love with an heiress.

Music Theater Works at Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson St., Evanston, 847-920-5360, music theaterworks.com.

WI., 608-588-2361, americanplayers.org

THROUGH OCT. 7 American Players Theatre summer season This rustic venue in Wisconsin’s rolling hills makes for a delightful getaway.

Highlights this summer include Aaron Posner (who co-directed the recent Macbeth at Chicago Shakespeare) directing his adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s Heartbreak House. Other directors include Chicagoans Ron OJ Parson (Blood Knot by AtholFugard) and William Brown (Recruiting Officer by George Farquhar), and the slate also features Shakespeare’s As You Like It and Measure for Measure, absurdist Eugene Ionesco’s Exit the King and the quintessentially American comedy Born Yesterday.

American Players Theatre, Spring Green,

JUNE 12-JULY 15, The Cher Show, Oriental Theatre, 312-977-1700, broadwayinchicago.com

American Premiere of Olivier Award Winner for Best New Comedy

OTHER PLAYS WORTH CHECKING OUT: THROUGH AUG. 19, 20,000 Leagues Under the Seas, Lookingglass Theatre, 312-337-0665, lookingglasstheatre.org

Artistic Director Barbara Gaines stages one of the great masterworks of Western literature

The National Theatre of Great Britain’s suspenseful masterpiece comes to Chicago

THROUGH JULY 22, Guards at the Taj, Steppenwolf Theatre, 312-335-1650, steppenwolf.org JUNE 23-JULY 29, Support Group for Men, Goodman Theatre, 312443-3800, goodman theatre.org

AN Raucous humor and wondrous imagery fuels this audience favorite

INSPECTOR CALLS

JUNE 21-AUG. 5, The Roommate, Steppenwolf Theatre, 312-335-1650, steppenwolf.org JULY 3-22, Waitress, Cadillac Palace Theatre, 800-775-2000, broadway inchicago.com JULY 5-AUG. 26, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Drury Lane Theatre, 630-530-8300, drurylaneoakbrook.com

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JULY 14-AUG. 12, Pinkalicious, Marriott Theatre, 847-634-0200, marriotttheater.com JULY 17-29, The Color Purple, Auditorium Theatre, 800-775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com

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Dine

EDITED BY JULIE CHERNOFF

PIECE Pizza/Brewery New Haven-style pizza at its finest (read: charred, thin-crust Neopolitan-style), especially when accompanied by a growler of their awardwinning brew. If you really want to be taken seriously, order the clam with bacon.

1927 W. North Ave., 773-772-4422, piecechicago.com LD $

DOWNTOWN/ LOOP

• NAOKI Sushi Much-awarded sushi chef Naoki Nakashima is all about the freshest, most pristine sashimi and nigiri. Japanese small plates, specialty maki, and substantial sake and Japanese whiskey offerings round out the menu.

2300 N. Lincoln Park, 773-868-0002, naoki-sushi.com D $$

CHICAGO ANDERSONVILLE BIG JONES Southern Just off a recent reno, this is chef Paul Fehribach’s delicious letter to the American South, inspired by its people and history.

The cornbread! The chicken! The gumbo!

All stellar. 5347 N. Clark St., 773-2755725, bigjoneschicago. com LD, BR $$ HOPLEAF Gastropub For 25 years, this has been the place for

mussels and frites, washed down with one of more than 60 different craft beers.

5148 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773-334-9851, hopleafbar.com LD $

BUCKTOWN/ WICKER PARK ADA STREET Global/ Shared Plates New chef Scott Sax brings a decidedly Latin flair to this charming resto, including pleasantly doughy Brazilian Pao de Quejo, tequila-glazed Grilled Baby Octopus and Pork Adobo. The

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outdoor patio is a superfun (and secluded) summer destination.

1664 N. Ada St., 773697-7069, adastreet chicago.com D $$ THE BRISTOL Farm to Table This Bucktown fave pulls in the fans who swoon for the housemade pasta, charcuterie, and snoutto-tail ethos (Crispy Pig Ears are a must). Craft cocktails and a strong brunch game keep things hopping. 2152 N. Damen Ave., 773-8625555, thebristolchicago. com D, BR $$

HOT CHOCOLATE American Comfort Food James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Mindy Segal is so much more than a dessert queen; witness the brilliance of her mac and cheese, the perfect hamburger, or her Crispy Chicken with Grits. But back to the dessert—if you decide to leave without slurping down her Malted Coffee Cocoa Nib Milkshake, you are clearly insane. 1747 N. Damen Ave., 773-4891747, hotchocolate chicago.com LD, BR $$

ACANTO Italian Terrific rustic Italian food is just within reach of Millennium Park and Chicago’s Cultural Mile. Order one of chef Christopher Gawronski’s thin-crust pizzas or tender pastas and a glass of wine, and relax. 18 S. Michigan Ave., 312-578-0763, acantochicago.com LD, BR $$

CINDY’S Mediterranean Shared Plates The panoramic rooftop patio views overlooking Millenium Park and Lake Michigan are worth it alone, but happily chef Christian Ragano turns out food both delicious and Instagrammable. 12 S. Michigan Ave., 312-7923502, cindysrooftop. com LD, BR $$$ THE DEARBORN Upscale Tavern It’s the ideal location for dinner before (or after—they’re open late!) virtually any Loop theater show or concert. The Dearborn’s eclectic global cuisine covers the gamut from Korean BBQ Tacos to

Shrimp and Octopus Ceviche, but they’ve also got a damn good burger.

145 N. Dearborn St., 312384-1242, thedearborn tavern.com LD, BR $$ THE GAGE Gastropub Oh, the Poutine! Was there ever a better use of fries and cheese curds? Plenty to love at this British-influenced stalwart across from Millennium Park.

Top-notch steaks, craft beers, and house-made sausages. 24 S. Michigan Ave., 312-372-4243 thegagechicago.com LD, BR $ $

HEAVEN ON SEVEN Cajun The irrepressible Jimmy Bannos has brought smiles—and hot sauce—to hungry Chicagoans for decades.

There’s no better Louisiana cuisine this side of the Mississippi.

Gumbo, Po’ Boys, Crab Cakes, Jambalaya and more. 111 N. Wabash, 7th Floor, 312-263-6443, heavenonseven.com BLD $ TERZO PIANO Italian The restaurant’s design is right at home in the Modern Wing of the Art Institute. Chef/ owner Tony Mantuano’s seasonal pastas, salads and shared plates are stunning, too. 159 E. Monroe St., 312-4438650, terzopianochicago. com L, BR $$

GOLD COAST THE PURPLE PIG Mediterranean/ Small Plates Chef Jimmy Bannos Jr. is a fourth- generation restaurateur—and a James Beard Award

ANJALI PINTO

A N I N S I D E R ’ S G U I D E TO T H E V E RY B E S T E AT S I N C H I C AG O A N D B E YO N D

winner. Known for an awe-inspiring collection of cured meats, cheeses, “smears,” and house-made antipasti, they keep the plancha fired up with a great selection of meaty small plates, perfect for sharing after a hard day of shopping on Michigan Avenue. 500 N. Michigan Ave., 312464-1744, thepurple pigchicago.com LD, $$ SOMERSET Seasonal American Chef Lee Wolen and pastry goddess Meg Galus are at it again, shaking up the Gold Coast with this snazzy resto in the new Viceroy Hotel, designed to the nines and the perfect backdrop for their seasonal take on elevated comfort food.

Viceroy Hotel, 1112 N. State St., 312-586-2150, somersetchicago.com BLD, BR $$$

SPIAGGIA Italian Barack and Michelle flipped for James Beard Award winner Tony Mantuano’s luxe Italian cuisine, and it’s easy to understand why. The nearby Café Spiaggia is a more casual option and is also open for lunch.

980 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd floor, 312-280-2750, spiaggiarestaurant.com D $$$$

LINCOLN PARK/ LAKEVIEW ALINEA Tasting Menu James Beard Award winner and three-star Michelin chef Grant Achatz has the world on

a string. Reservations are rare and the price is steep, but if you can, this is an experience you should have at least once. 1723 N. Halsted St., 312-867-0110, alinearestaurant.com D $$$$

BOKA Contemporary American Chef Lee Wolen ably helms the BOKA Group’s flagship restaurant. Clubby, sleek interiors are the ideal backdrop for his lovely, seasonal American cuisine and pastry chef Meg Galus’ outstanding creations.

1729 N. Halsted St., 312-337-6070, bokachicago.com D $$$ MON AMI GABI French Bistro You’ll find all the bistro classics on Chef Nelli Maltezos’

2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 RETAIL STORE HOURS: GROOMING SALON: OPEN 7 DAYS/WEEK | CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

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menu—Steak Frites, Frisée Salad, Onion Soup au Gratin—and they’re delightful every time. This longtime LEYE favorite, located in the landmark Belden Stratford, has terrific service and an approachable wine list.

2300 N. Lincoln Park West, 773-348-8886, monamigabi.com D, BR $$

NORTH POND Seasonal American This Arts & Crafts beauty perches on the edge of a tranquil pond. James Beard Award-winning chef Bruce Sherman sources from small local farms to create his exquisitely prepared and presented dishes. 2610 N. Cannon Dr., 773-477-5845, northpondrestaurant.com D, BR $$$

RICCARDO TRATTORIA Italian Now that’s Italian— Northern Italian, to be exact. We’d be hard-pressed to name a favorite among the gems, but truly every risotto and pasta dish is like a quick trip to Milan or Florence.

Authentic and delicioso.

Sister restaurant Riccardo Enoteca is across the street. 2119 N. Clark St., 773-5490038, riccardotrattoria. com D $$

time. Chef Cameron Grant knows what’s up.

1904 N. Western Ave., 872-315-3912, animale chicago.com D, BR $

LOGAN SQUARE /AVONDALE

DOS URBAN CANTINA Modern Mexican Husband-and-wife chef team Brian and Jennifer Enyart opened this spot as a showcase for their modern Mexican cuisine.

Octopus al pastor with pineapple and adobo and masa gnocchi in chorizo sauce are just a few of their inventive dishes.

2829 W. Armitage Ave., 773-661-6452, dosurban cantina.com D, BR $$

ANIMALE Italian Toothsome housemade fresh pastas, salads, panini and even a righteous burger with an Italian accent make this spot worthy of your

FAT RICE Macanese The first Macanese restaurant in Chicago is a happy combination of Southeast Asian, Portuguese, Indian and Chinese food. The Arroz

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Out & About / DINE Gordo (“Fat Rice”) is like paella on steroids. 2957 W. Diversey Ave., 773661-9170, eatfatrice.com LD, BR $$

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GIANT Global Cuisine Chef Jason Vincent is a culinary omnivore with many influences, so he decided to cook all of his favorites. The buzz around the Jonah Crab Salad with Waffle Fries, Super Uni Shooter and the “Sortallini”? Well deserved. 3209 W. Armitage Ave., 773-2520997, giantrestaurant .com D $$ HONEY BUTTER FRIED CHICKEN American Comfort Food This is the fried chicken of your wildest dreams: crispy and spicy, moist and juicy. Swipe with soft honey butter on the way to your mouth, and live large. Also love the kale slaw, pimento mac & cheese, and the little corn muffins. 336`N. Elston Ave., 773478-4000, honey butter.com LD, BR $ OSTERIA LANGHE Italian Possibly the best Italian restaurant in the city, this sister restaurant to Animale is run by Scottish chef Cameron Grant and Belgian-Italian frontman Aldo Zaninotto. 2824 W. Armitage Ave., 773-6611582, osterialanghe.com D $$

PARACHUTE Korean Top Chef finalist Beverly Kim and her husband Johnny Clark were in the forefront of the couplesopening-restaurants phenomenon in Chicago with this fabulous Korean fusion spot in Avondale. The Baked Potato Bing Bread is a must-order, along with the Oysters with Soju Granita and the Bi Bim 86 J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

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Bop, here made with yellowfin tuna and preserved lemon.

3500 N. Elston Ave., 773-654-1460, parachute restaurant.com D $$ TABLE, DONKEY AND STICK Alpine Gastropub This Tyrolean charmer captures the spirit of an Alpine mountain inn.

Toast yourself by the fire, or hang out on their lovely patio in warmer weather. Either way, don’t miss the housemade charcuterie, bread and cultured butter. They have a way with game here, and of course the pretzel with beer cheese and the potato latkes are highly satisfying. 2728 W. Armitage Ave., 773-4868525, tabledonkeystick. com D $$

PILSEN/ BRIDGEPORT THE DUCK INN Gastropub Bridgeport’s other favorite son, Kevin Hickey, came home and brought a restaurant with him. The Rotisserie Duck is the star of the show, but the supporting players are equally talented. 2701 S. Eleanor, 312-724-8811, theduck innchicago.com D $$ HAISOUS Vietnamese On everyone’s best new restaurant list, this Pilsen spot scored a Bib Gourmand rating from the venerable Michelin Guide. Owners Thai and Danielle Dang are sharing their love of Vietnamese food with us. And trust us—from the soulful beef pho to the earthy roasted duck stuffed with kaffir lime leaves, you will feel the love. 1800 S. Carpenter St., 312-702-1303, haisous.com D, BR $$

S.K.Y. Global Fusion L.A. transplant Stephen Gillanders unites the cuisines of East Asia and the Mediterranean at this chic new spot.

Dishes like Foie Gras Bibimbap and Maine Lobster Dumplings with Jade Butter are bursting with flavor. 1239 W. 18th St., 312-846-1077, sky restaurantchicago.com D $$

RIVER NORTH BAVETTES BAR & BOEUF Steakhouse There’s more than a whiff of speakeasy at this popular meatery.

Bring a flashlight to read the menu, or just order a Smoked Salmon Caesar and a Bone-In Filet, with a side of the insane Truffle Mac & Cheese. Defibrillator optional. 218 W. Kinzie St., 312-624-8154, bavettessteakhouse.com D $$$

BEATRIX American Comfort Food LEYE gets healthy (sort of)!

This neighborhood favorite (joined by outposts in Streeterville and West Loop) brings the yummy with freshsqueezed juice medleys, bounteous salads, burgers for every diet, and a killer turkey meatloaf.

Skip the pastry bar at your own peril. 519 N. Clark St., 312-284-1377, beatrixrestaurants.com BLD, BR $$

BRINDILLE French Chef/owner Carrie Nahabedian’s seasonal interpretations of impeccable French cuisine are worth every penny. Luxe dishes such as Hudson Valley foie gras, steak tartare, and whole Dover sole sound their siren call.

Tasting menus available.

534 N. Clark St., 312595-1616, brindillechicago.com D $$$

FRONTERA GRILL Mexican For over 30 years, James Beard Award-winning chef Rick Bayless has been educating Chicago— and beyond—about authentic regional Mexican cuisine. His fine-dining restaurant, Topolobampo, shares an entrance with Frontera; fast casual Xoco is on the corner.

All three more than live up to the hype. 445 N. Clark St., 312-661-1434, rickbayless.com LD, BR Frontera Grill $$/Xoco $/Topolobampo $$$ GT FISH & OYSTER Seafood Chef Giuseppe Tentori, in partnership with the Boka Group, has his way with seafood, and the results are memorable. 531 N. Wells St., 312-929-3501, gtoyster.com LD, BR $$ GT PRIME Steakhouse See above; substitute meat for seafood and you’ve got the idea.

707 N. Wells St., 312600-6305, gprime.com D $$$

PORTSMITH Seafood From the Fifty/50 Group comes this gorgeous seafoodforward resto. The bread service is stellar, raw bar items topnotch, and Chef Nate Henssler’s cacio e pepe with uni butter and caviar a rich surprise.

660 N. State St., 312202-6050, portsmith chicago.com BLD, BR $$$ TANTA Peruvian Peruvian super chef Gaston Acurio brings Lima to Chicago by way of his kitchen, turning out luscious empanadas, antichuchos (skewers), cebiche with leche de tigre (translated as “tiger’s milk,” but not really!), pollo a la brasa,

and more. Pisco drinks are big here, and we don’t mind at all.

118 W. Grand Ave., 312-222-9700, tanta chicago.com LD, BR $$

SOUTH LOOP ACADIA Tasting Menu Dinner is always a wow at this Michelin Guide two-star stunner. Chef Ryan McCaskey plays with the classics in beautiful and supremely flavorful ways. 1639 S. Wabash Ave., 312360-9500, acadia chicago.com D $$$$ MERCAT A LA PLANXA Spanish In this Spanish spot in the Blackstone Hotel, small plates, Catalan-style cuisine, a lively downstairs bar, and an airy two-story dining room are all selling points. 638 S. Michigan Ave., 312-765-0524, mercat chicago.com BLD, BR $$$

STREETERVILLE MAPLE & ASH Steakhouse This super-luxe Gold Coast steakhouse has it all: craft cocktails, woodfired hearth- cooked proteins, expansive raw bar offerings, a killer interior, and the culinary stylings of chef Danny Grant.

Don’t skip Aya Fukai’s amazing desserts. 8 W. Maple St., 312-9448888, mapleandash.com D, BR $$$

MARGEAUX BRASSERIE French Bistro California celeb chef Michael Mina’s first outpost in Chicago, Margeaux pulses with life—and sound, so be forewarned. Bistro favorites abound, but the Shellfish Plateau is truly above and beyond.

Waldorf Astoria Chicago, 11 E. Walton

St., 312-625-1324, michaelmina.net BLD, BR $$

NICO OSTERIA Italian/Seafood The Gold Coast’s chic Thompson Hotel really scored big when it opened this Italian seafood-focused resto.

House-made pastas and pastry chef Leigh Omilinsky’s calorieworthy desserts are particular highlights.

1015 N. Rush St., 312994-7100, nicoosteria. com BLD, BR $$ SHANGHAI TERRACE Chinese Tucked away in the glamorous Peninsula Hotel is one of the best Chinese restaurants in the city—and undoubtedly the priciest. The dim sum nibbles, the Peking duck, the abalone (you read that right)… all spectacular, and the service is impeccable.

In summer, insist on the glorious rooftop terrace. 108 E. Superior St., 312-573-6744, chicago .peninsula.com LD $$$ SOMERSET Seasonal American Chef Lee Wolen and pastry goddess Meg Galus are at it again, shaking up the Gold Coast with this snazzy resto, designed to the nines and the prime backdrop for their seasonal take on elevated comfort food.

Viceroy Hotel, 1112 N. State St., 312-586-2150, somersetchicago.com BLD, BR $$$

TORALI ITALIAN STEAK Italian Steakhouse Inside the zillion-dollar renovation of the RitzCarlton you’ll find this modern approach to a steakhouse with an Italian twist. Housemade pastas, prime and dry-aged meats,

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2018

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Voted Best Hotel - Suburbs and Best Staycation - Suburbs!

SOAK IN SUMMER Spend your summer days in a Tudor mansion on the Northshore.

• Beach Access • Living Room with Surrounding Lake Views • Gourmet Breakfast • Luxury Guest Rooms • Outdoor Terrace & Grounds

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P R O M OT I O N

the DISH EAT, DRINK AND BE ENTERTAINED

Order our easy 3-Day Reset to boost energy, feel lean, stabilize hunger and curb cravings. Enjoy organic, fresh prepared food plus health coaching support to Feel Good for Good™! “Cannot believe that I learned so much and feel so much better in three short days.” –Tricia THE BREAD & BUDDHA KITCHEN thebreadandbuddhakitchen.com

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For almost 40 years, Convito Cafe & Market’s mission has always been to foster enjoyment of the gourmet foods, wines & spirits of Italy & France.

Come dine in our cozy art-filled cafe, or shop in our market for home enjoyment. Voted “Best of 2018” Carryout and Outdoor Patio Dining.

CONVITO CAFE & MARKET convitocafeandmarket.com 1515 Sheridan Rd., Suite 5, Wilmette, IL 847.251.3654

The taste of Japan brought to the North Shore. A ramen centered menu featuring authentic Japanese cuisine.

This family-friendly, energized space provides a cozy ambience to match the fresh menu.

Make It Better 2018 winner of Best Japanese Dining.

TORINO RAMEN

1162 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL 847.920.5075

Thank you for making Nick’s a DOUBLE “Best of 2018” award winner!

Featuring great food, exceptional service and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Nick’s has become one of the North Shore’s favorite places to eat, drink and gather. Stop by and check out our new summer menu!

NICK’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR & GRILL

1168 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL 847.251.3262

88 J U LY/A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 M A K E I T B E T T E R

Fresh Healthy Locally Sourced Food. Artisanal Sandwiches, Fusion Tacos and Salads. Online ordering and catering available at Stackedandfolded.com STACKED AND FOLDED stackedandfolded.com | stackedandfolded@gmail.com 551 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, IL 847.386.9100

Golf doesn’t have to be the only reason to go to WGC. Now there is reason to stop by for an excellent lunch or dinner overlooking the 18th hole. They will be open all year and open to the public.

A LA CARTE GRILL

@ Wilmette Golf Club 3900 Fairway Drive, Wilmette, IL 847.256.4102

Out & About / DINE inspired cocktails and a gorgeous interior. 160 E. Pearson at Water Tower Place, 312-5735160, toralichicago.com BLD $$$

WEST LOOP AVEC Mediterranean Small Plates Make new friends at Avec’s communal tables while sharing the signature ChorizoStuffed Medjool Dates wrapped in bacon, served with a piquillo pepper-tomato sauce.

The paella here is spot on. 615 W. Randolph St., 312-377-2002, avecrestaurant.com LD, BR $$

BAD HUNTER Veggiecentric So much gorgeous light streams into this cozy spot at lunch and brunch.

Veggies are the star, but carnivores get some love, too. And the Spicy Carrot Cooler works at any time of day. 802 W. Randolph St., 312-2651745, badhunter.com LD, BR $$

BELLYQ Asian BBQ Chef Bill Kim’s panAsian menu is filled with craveable delights: Korean Fried Chicken, Scallion Pancakes with BBQ Pork, TeaSmoked Duck Breast and Coconut Grits are just a sampling. And that PB&J Soft Serve! Addictive stuff. 1400 W. Randolph St., 312-563-1010, bellyqchicago.com D $$ BLACKBIRD Contemporary American This is where it all began for Paul Kahan and his restaurant empire, and it’s still of the moment.

Chef de cuisine Ryan Pfeiffer is putting out beautiful, modern food made with local, sustainable ingredients.

619 W. Randolph St.,

312-715-0708, blackbird restaurant.com LD $$$ GIRL & THE GOAT Global Cuisine James Beard Award and Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard favors familystyle, big-hearted dishes at her culinary global mashup, like the Wood-Oven Roasted Pig Face (surprisingly scrumptious despite the name), Goat Empanadas, and even a whole goat leg, available by reservation only. 809 W. Randolph St., 312-492-6262, girlandthegoat.com D $$ LEÑA BRAVA Mexican/ Seafood Rick Bayless’ newest venture is a Mexican seafood (from sustainable and environmentally responsible sources, of course) restaurant that draws inspiration from fire and ice.

Everything is cooked by fire, either in a woodburning oven or over a hot grill. Bayless’ Cruz Blanca Brewery and Taqueria is right next door. 900 W. Randolph St., 312-733-1975, rickbayless.com D $$$ ORIOLE Tasting Menu Two Michelin stars for the Asian-influenced vision of chef Noah Sandoval combined with the divine desserts of pastry chef Genie Kwon. An inauspicious entrance belies the serene and awe-inducing culinary experience within.

661 W. Walnut St., 312-877-5339, oriolechicago.com D $$$ THE PUBLICAN Gastropub Oysters, craft beer and pork, oh my! If it’s über-loud here, that’s because everyone is fighting over the last piece of roasted farm chicken. Don’t

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Out & About / DINE miss Publican Quality Meats (L only), the amazing deli across the street. 837 W. Fulton Market, 312-6012970, thepublican restaurant.com D, BR Publican Quality Meats $/The Publican $$ LA SIRENA CLANDESTINA South American Chef John Manion spent his childhood in Brazil and cooked his way through Argentina, so it’s no surprise that he’s doing South American cuisine serious justice here.

His feijoada (a meat, rice and greens dish), moqueca (a coconutinfused seafood stew with risotto) and Black Beans & Rice are all delicious. Try them with a house caipirinha or pisco sour. 954 W. Fulton Market, 312226-5300, lasirena chicago.com D, BR $$ SMYTH + THE LOYALIST Tasting Menu / Modern American Powerhouse husband-and-wife team John and Karen Shields give you two options: Smyth’s exquisite multicourse offerings, or The Loyalist’s casual vibe.

Honestly, there’s no wrong choice here.

177 N. Ada St., 773-9133773, smythandthe loyalist.com D Smith $$$$/The Loyalist $$ SWIFT & SONS Steakhouse Chef Chris Pandel and the Boka Group are aiming for nothing less than the evolution of the American steakhouse for modern sensibilities. The meat is aged beautifully, dessert comes on a cart, and the gin is cold. What more could you ask? 1000 W. Fulton Market, 312733-9420, swiftandsons chicago.com D $$$

NORTH SHORE EVANSTON BANGERS & LACE Gastropub If you’re a draft and craft beer fan who loves elevated bar food— including artisanal sausage—you’ve come to the right place. The original outpost is in Wicker Park. 810 Grove St., Evanston, 847905-0854, bangersand lacebar.com D, BR $ BLIND FAITH CAFE Vegetarian For more than 30 years, they’ve been satisfying vegetarians, vegans, and those who love them with globally inspired dishes (Bibimbop, Yellow Coconut Curry, Spinach Lasagna) and hearty baked goods.

525 Dempster St., Evanston, 847-3286875, blind faithcafe.com BLD, BR $ THE BARN Contemporary American / Steakhouse This sister restaurant to Found Kitchen has a speakeasy feel (it’s down a side alley), chic decor and food that’s classic with a twist.

The craft cocktails here are also top-notch.

Rear 1016 Church St., Evanston, 847-868-8041, thebarnevanston.com D $$$

BOLTWOOD Farm to Table Whether for a power lunch or family dinner, Chef Brian Huston’s seasonally driven food draws a crowd. Order the Roasted Half Chicken and Crispy Potatoes with Garlic Schmaltz and thank us later. 804 Davis St., Evanston, 847-859-2880, boltwoodevanston.com LD, BR $$

90 J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

CAMPAGNOLA Italian Rustic Italian hits the spot at this longtime South Evanston favorite. Chef Vince Di Battista favors local, organic ingredients whenever possible.

Pappardelle bolognese here is some of the best around. 815 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847475-6100, campagnola restaurant.com D $$ FIVE & DIME /LULU’S/ TACO DIABLO American/Asian/ Mexican Owners Dan and Laura Kelch are back after a devastating fire closed the original Taco Diablo. Now across the street, they’ve got three energetic joints going at once: the pan-Asian Lulu’s; tequila-haven Taco Diablo; and indoor/ outdoor hangout spot Five & Dime. 1026 Davis St., Evanston, 847-859-6847, lulusevanston .com, tacodiablo.com LD $

FOUND KITCHEN AND SOCIAL HOUSE Farm to Table Thirdgeneration restaurateur Amy Morton is behind this creative restaurant with a distinctly urban flair. Feast on seasonally focused shared plates, locally sourced meat and produce, and inventive craft cocktails. 1631 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8945, found kitchen.com LD $$ HEARTH American A welcome respite in a sea of deafening restaurants, Hearth offers a lovely dining experience and carefully prepared, seasonal fare. Brunch is a highlight. 1625 Hinman Ave., Evanston, 847-570-8400, hearth restaurant.net D, BR $$

KOI Chinese/Sushi The menu at this stylish Downtown Evanston restaurant and lounge covers eight regions of China. In addition, find fresh and inventive sushi rolls and great dim sum offerings at weekend brunch. 624 Davis St., Evanston, 847-866-6969, koievan ston.com LD, BR $$ NAKORN Modern Thai This “Cosmopolitan Thai” resto is exactly where you need to eat. Clean, bright flavors pop big in craft cocktails and curries; not your average Thai menu, as the mouthwatering New York strip steak attests.

1622 Orrington Ave., Evanston, 847-7338424, nakornkitchen. com LD $$ OCEANIQUE French/ Seafood Whether you opt for the sevencourse tasting menu or the à la carte choices, it’s clear that chef Mark Grosz has serious cooking chops.

Pair your foie gras or lobster with something fine from the awardwinning wine list. 505 Main St., Evanston, 847864-3435, oceanique. com D $$$ UNION PIZZERIA Pizza Pies from a wood-burning pizza oven just have that special something.

We love the blistered thin-crust pizzas and small antipasti plates here and the Detroitstyle square pizzas down the street at sister restaurant Union Squared. 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847475-2400, unionpizza. com D $

GLENCOE GUILDHALL Contemporary American The bar is always packed at this lovely restaurant just a stone’s throw from Writers Theatre.

Seasonal produce and local purveyors play an important part. 694 Vernon Ave., Glencoe, 847-835-8100, guild hallrestaurant.com

LAKE FOREST/ LAKE BLUFF INOVASI Contemporary American Separated into small, medium and large plates of seasonal deliciousness, chef John des Rosiers’ food is also largely—and naturally—gluten-free.

28 E. Center Ave., Lake Bluff, 847-295-1000, inovasi.us LD $$

LD, BR $$$

VALOR Mediterranean Bistro Third time is the charm for this cozy bistro in downtown Glencoe. They score with serious craft cocktails and flavorforward preparations of pasta, seafood and meat. If the Plancha Octopus is available, don’t miss it! 667 Vernon Ave., Glencoe, 847-786-4324, valorglencoe.com D $$

HIGHLAND PARK/ HIGHWOOD ABIGAIL’S AMERICAN BISTRO Contemporary American Chef Michael Paulsen’s big flavors deliver all the yummy and keep everyone happy, from the killer cheeseburger and flashfried Brussels sprouts to the duck confit salad.

Even better, it’s close to Ravinia. 493 Roger Williams Ave., Highland Park, 847-780-4862, abigails493.com LD $$ BALLARO Contemporary American Thin-crust pizza, fresh pasta and more at this contemporary Italian spot. Don’t miss the Bucatini Carbonara.

214 Green Bay Road, Highwood, 847-7803396, ballarohw.com D $$

MARKET HOUSE ON THE SQUARE Farm to Table Local and seasonal are the watchwords here.

So much so that chef Dan Marquis and his brother Tim own Mill Road Farms in Sheffield, Illinois, and supply the restaurant with their organic produce. 655 Forest Ave., Lake Forest, 847234-8800 LD, BR $$

NORTHBROOK/ NORTHFIELD DI PESCARA Italian/ Seafood Northbrook Court’s go-to restaurant features Italian-inspired seafood and steaks, but also makes a mean sushi and an ice-cold martini of note. 2124 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, 847-4984321, di-pescara.com LD $$$

HAPP INN BAR & GRILL American Comfort Food Crazy busy at both lunch and dinner, longtime North Shore restaurateur Carlos Nieto’s Happ Inn tempts with great burgers, salads, flatbreads, and Mexican favorites. 305 Happ Road, Northfield, 847-784-9200, thehappinn.com LD, BR $$

COURTESY OF LIBERTAD

HOUSE 406 Contemporary American / Steakhouse Yes, beef is a strong point here, but Chef Eloin Amador has a way with seafood, grilled pizza, soup, and salads as well. Save room for Jennifer Eisen’s Chocolate & Peanut Butter Lava Cake or one of the beautiful Wisconsin Cheese Flights. 1143 ½ Church St., Northbrook, 847-714-0200, house406 restaurant.com LD $$ MESA URBANA Mexican Its strip-mall locale belies what you’ll find within—modern Mexican cuisine with innovative takes on classics such as ceviche, empanadas, seafood and more.

The dazzling cocktails are made with only

freshly squeezed juices.

3566 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, 847-3830700, mesaurbana.com D $$

PRAIRIE GRASS CAFÉ Farm to Table Chef/ owners Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris are committed to using seasonal produce from local farms and meat and dairy from Midwestern producers, and all prepared with great care for maximum flavor. 601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, 847-2054433, prairiegrasscafe. com LD, BR $$

WILMETTE CONVITO CAFÉ & MARKET French / Italian Stroll through the gourmet market

SKOKIE • LIBERTAD Pan-Latino Latin American flavors are well represented in this cozy spot.

Small plates, reasonable prices, and beautifully prepared and presented food make this a must-visit place.

7931 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, 847-674-8100, libertad7931.com D, BR $$

To our loyal customers who voted us the

BEST GROCERY STORE in the Make It Better’s Best of 2018

www.GrandFoodCenter.com

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Out & About / DINE stocked with imported Italian delicacies, wines and freshly prepared take-home foods to the charming bistro beyond. A lunch and brunch favorite.

1515 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, 847-2513654, convitocafe andmarket.com LD, BR $$

DEPOT NUEVO Mexican Inventive margaritas and an enormous tequila selection accompany tasty tacos, burritos and carne asada.

Outdoor porch game strong. 1139 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-251-3111, depotnuevo.com D $

FIREFLY KITCHEN American Bistro Chef Dean Salerno brings a Brooklyn flair to the Midwest, with upscale comfort foods like mushroom risotto, seasonal flatbreads, and charcuterie boards. 111 Green Bay Road, Wilmette, 224408-2464, ffkitchen. com D, BR $$ NAPOLITA Pizza / Italian The hand-tiled, Italian wood-burning oven in the corner lets you know they mean serious pizza business here, but the pastas, risottos and salads hold their own. 1126 Central Ave., Wilmette, 224-215-0305, napolitapizza.com LD, BR $$

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TORINO RAMEN Japanese Operated by three Japanese women who missed traditional ramen, Torino offers deeply flavored broths with fresh ramen noodles, along with some seriously tasty fried chicken bites, gyoza, and other favorites.

1162 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-9205075, torino ramen.com LD $

WINNETKA AVLI ESTIATORIO Greek Owner Louis Alexakis brings authentic Greek cuisine to the North Shore, along with a terrific—and largely Greek—wine list.

Great indoor/outdoor patio. 566 Chestnut St.,

Winnetka, 847-4469300, avli.us LD $$ FRED’S GARAGE American Comfort Food Built in a repurposed and refurbished garage, Fred’s (from the owners of Evanston’s Ten Mile House) is a neighborhood restaurant with food you’ll crave—especially that super crispy fried chicken. 574 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, 847496-3733, freds winnetka.com LD $$ GRATEFUL BITES PIZZA SHOPPE Pizza Owners Matt and Sarah Halack began at local farmers markets, but have progressed to brick and mortar. The Elotes Pizza is quite extraordinary, and that

sourdough crust!

Yum. 899 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, 847386-9141, gratefulbites .com LD $ RESTAURANT MICHAEL French Chef/proprietor Michael Lachowicz has long championed an elegant French dining experience, with spectacular food and service. From the opening salvo of Tuna & Salmon Tartare to the Hot Fallen Chocolate Soufflé, the food here never disappoints.

64 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, 847-4413100, restaurant michael.com D $$$

TRIFECTA GRILL Wine Bar In the warmer months, there’s no better place to be than the secluded and spacious patio at this Winnetka favorite.

Enjoy pizzas, salads, and small plates while sipping craft beers and wines from around the globe.

501 Chestnut St., Winnetka, 847-4411700, trifectagrill winnetka.com D $$

6/13/18 11:39 AM

Better Makers

R ECO G N I Z I N G C H I C AG O ’ S E V E RY DAY H E R O E S A N D T H E I R I N C R E D I B L E I M PAC T

• LYRIC OPERA OF

Lester and Renée Crown and Michael Davis

Make It Better Best of 2018 Winner

JACLYN SIMPSON; ROBERT KUSEL; TODD ROSENBERG; IMPACT PHOTO COURTESY OF LYRIC OPERA OF CHICAGO

Rick Waddell

Nancy Searle, Thibault Pontallier, Alexandra Petit-Mentzelopoulos, Keith Kiley Goldstein

CHICAGO The Lyric Opera Women’s Board hosted its 30th Anniversary Wine Auction on April 14.

Since its inception in 1988, this triennial event has raised more than $11 million for Lyric Opera of Chicago programs and initiatives. This year’s event was co-chaired by Keith Kiley Goldstein and Women’s Board President Nancy Searle. Shirley W. Ryan was the evening’s honoree, and the Honored Guest was Château Margaux, represented by Deputy General Manager Alexandra PetitMentzelopoulos and Global Ambassador Thibault Pontallier.

MIB IMPACT

Money raised at this event will make “a profound impact on Lyric’s commitment to offer a multifaceted program of education, community engagement, and artistic initiatives, along with unparalleled creative expression.”

Events with this icon indicate Make It Better was a media sponsor.

The jaw-dropping stage was designed by Lyric’s set design and production team.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 93

Out & About / BETTER MAKERS • ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

The 2018 Alzheimer’s Association Rita Hayworth Gala, which took place on May 12 at the Hilton Chicago, raised more than $1.1 million for the organization’s research, care, and support programs. During the event, “Today” correspondent and “Access Live” co-host Natalie Morales and her family were given the Caregiver Award for their work raising awareness for Alzheimer’s. The family of the late actor Gene Wilder, who passed away in 2016 from complications with Alzheimer’s, received the Pure Imagination Award, and the event’s theme—Pure Imagination—paid homage to Wilder’s character in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. The 2018 Rita Hayworth Gala was co-chaired by Jon and Allie Harris.

MIB IMPACT The Alzheimer’s

Princess Yasmin Aga Khan (daughter of Rita Hayworth and founder of Rita Hayworth Gala), Natalie Morales, Jon Harris, and Allie Harris

Association International Conference® (AAIC®) is the largest and most influential international meeting dedicated to advancing dementia science. The Alzheimer’s Association is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research.

Jordan Walker-Pearlman (honoree and nephew of Gene Wilder), Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Karen Wilder (honoree and widow of Gene Wilder)

BILL RICHERT; IMPACT PHOTO COURTESY OF ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

Joseph Rhodes, Natalie Morales, Richard Dent, and DeEtta Jones

• UNICEF USA

Event Co-Chair Kim Cornell, CEO & President UNICEF USA Caryl M. Stern, Event Co-Chair and Midwest Board Member Sheilah Burnham, and Managing Director, Midwest UNICEF USA Elizabeth McCostlin.

UNICEF USA CEO & President Caryl M. Stern speaks onstage during the 11th Annual UNICEF Gala Chicago 2018.

94 J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

Gala Committee Chair Ashish Prasad; Gala Committee, Midwest Board Affil.

Ashley Prasad; and Amy Brown and Gala Committee member Rob Brown.

MIB IMPACT Funds raised

at the UNICEF Gala Chicago support UNICEF’s work to improve the lives of the world’s most vulnerable children, by providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief, and more.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL BOCZARSKI/GETTY IMAGES FOR UNICEF USA

The Midwest Regional Office of UNICEF USA held its 11th Annual UNICEF Gala Chicago on April 28 at The Geraghty.

The Gala raised $1.1 million in support of UNICEF’s global mission: to save children’s lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfill their potential. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner, live and silent auctions with auctioneer Stephen C. Lewis, and entertainment by local acts Musicality and Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra.

• STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY

In celebration of 42 remarkable seasons of ensemble theater, nearly 700 guests gathered on May 12 to honor Steppenwolf’s world-renowned ensemble. With record-breaking attendance, the 2018 Gala raised more than $1.3 million for the theater’s pivotal programing in the arts and local community. The star-studded event included actor Rainn Wilson, emcee for the evening, and guest auctioneers Chris Rock and Robbie Gordy.

Make It Better Best of 2018 Winner

KYLE FLUBACKER AND JACLYN SIMPSON

Kelsey Grammer, Christie’s Robbie Gordy, Chris Rock, and Rainn Wilson

MIB IMPACT Steppenwolf’s 2018 Gala

raised funds for programming like Steppenwolf Education’s “Step In” workshop (pictured).

Ensemble member and Artistic Director Anna D. Shapiro addresses the ensemble members on stage.

• BUILD, INC.

BUILD, Inc. (Broader Urban Involvement and Leadership Development) celebrated 49 years of impacting Chicago’s youth at its annual dinner April 27. BUILDing Opportunity, Transforming the Future raised a record-breaking $725,000 for its youth programing.

BUILD was named a Make It Better Philanthropy Award Winner in 2017.

6thAnnual

Michele Semin, Gregg Zgonena, Norena Mikicic, and Amy Hannaford

Danny Wirtz, accepting BUILD’s 2018 Corporate Angel Award on behalf of Breakthru Beverage Illinois, is joined

by BUILD Executive Director Adam Alonso and BUILD Youth presenter.

COURTESY OF BUILD INC.

Make It Better Philanthropy Award Winner

BUILDer of the year honorees Jim and Kelly McShane with award, joined by BUILD Executive Director Adam Alonso and BUILD Youth presenter

MIB IMPACT BUILD helps prevent violence through school and community programs that foster the attitudes, skills, and habits of healthy, successful people.

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 95

Out & About / BETTER MAKERS Metropolitan Family Services Evanston/ Skokie Valley held this year’s Spring Fever benefit on April 21. The event brought 150 guests to the Evanston Golf Club to honor former Evanston Mayor Jay Lytle and his wife, Bonnie, for their continued support to Metropolitan’s mission and efforts. Spring Fever raised $40,000 for Metropolitan’s programs and services for local families. The lively evening was filled with music from Northwestern Music Student Alvin Cobb, raffles, games and a program auction.

A trio led by drummer Alvin Cobb (right) performs at Spring Fever.

Bonnie Lytle and former Evanston Mayor Jay Lytle (foreground) speak after being honored at the 2018 Spring Fever. Roxanne Nava, Executive Director for Metropolitan Family Services’ North Region, stands in the background.

MIB IMPACT

Guests tried their hand at darts, one of many fun-filled games featured at Spring Fever.

Students in Metropolitan Family Services Evanston/Skokie Valley’s Substance Abuse Prevention Services (SAPS) program present a poster advocating drug-free living. SAPS partners with schools to provide youth with empowerment and resistance skills to help them live drug-free lives and positively impact their communities.

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTING AND MAINTENANCE Scott Byron & Co., Inc. • 30088 N. Skokie Highway, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 847.689.0266 Tel • www.scottbyron.com

96 ScottByron_0418_FNL.indd J U LY/AU GUS T 2018 M1A K E IT B E T T E R

Photo by Tony Soluri

R E AD MO R E AT M A K E IT B E T T E R .COM / PH6/15/18 I L A NT 9:34 H ROAM PY

COURTESY OF METROPOLITAN FAMILY SERVICES EVANSTON/SKOKIE VALLEY CENTER

• METROPOLITAN FAMILY SERVICES

Join our Better Giving Circle to Support Your Favorite Nonprofit Contact Lindsay Stout (847-256-4642) for more information

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Chicago Home

FROM BEAUTIFUL BUILDS AND STUNNING

MAKEOVERS TO TOP TRENDS AND REALTOR INSIGHTS

SUMMER BLOCKBUSTER A basic Winnetka lawn is transformed into a spectacular retreat for outdoor soirees come rain or come shine.

TATE GUNNERSON • PHOTOS BY HEATHER BLACKMORE

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 99

Chicago Home / BACKSTORY

W

HEN SUMMERS ARE as

short as they are in the Midwest, it’s important to make the most of them. It was in that spirit that Winnetka residents Jared and Christy Vegosen hired Chalet Landscape, Nursery, & Garden Center (MIB’s Best Of 2018 Best Landscaper winner) to create a luxurious spot for alfresco dining, hosting parties, and spending time with their two young daughters. “Jared grew up in a city co-op without even a balcony, so he really wanted to have a nice outdoor space,” Christy explains.

Working with designer Sara Marcucci, landscape designer Robert Milani replaced the original jumbo horseshoe-shaped driveway in front with a discrete motor court that better fit the home’s Tudor character. A new 100 J U LY/AU G US T 2018 M A K E IT B E T T E R

brick garden wall with bullnose limestone detailing screens the view of the vehicles from the front door. “Extending the walls into the landscape creates a seamless connection between the architecture and the landscaping,” Milani says.

The connection between the front and back yard is equally cohesive, thanks to a thermal bluestone path flanked by European-style columnar trees. In back, a large and handsome pergola, which was designed in Italy, built in Texas, and shipped to the site in pieces, creates a relaxing area to converse with friends.

With the touch of a button, an awning extends and screens lower into place, protecting the occupants from rain and the inevitable mosquitoes. “If it’s over 45 degrees, you can sit there comfortably, even

with the screens open,” Christy explains, pointing to the heat lamp in the ceiling.

The luxurious outdoor room is located conveniently next to the brick and stainless steel outdoor grill and a long zinc-topped dining table surrounded by tailored slipcovered chairs. Attention to detail is everywhere: There’s additional seating at a game table in front of the fireplace, which has been outfitted with a rustic arbor stained gray to match the pergola. Custom herb planters and bronze planters hand-forged in Detroit contain colorful flowers that complement the foliage surrounding the patio.

“It creates a nice vista from the patio looking out,” Milani says. “The dramatic drifts of perennial and annual pastel flower colors, spring bulbs, and leaf textures are on display from early spring to late fall.”

Opposite: Lush gardens in front hint at the beauty in back.

This page, clockwise from left: A large pergola divides the patio into distinctive spaces. A chandelier turns the cocktail area into an outdoor living room. The driveway pavers extend to the patio, making for a seamless transition from front to back. Soon, this view will include a pool. Outdoor slipcovers on the dining chairs make cleanup a breeze.

Gorgeous plantings disguise the basement window wells.

The view is about to become even more dramatic. Milani is putting the final touches on the design of a new swimming pool that will be installed later this summer. Centered with the pergola on the edge of the yard, the long, narrow pool will have a black bottom and a raised spa with a cascading edge. “It’ll be nestled into a bed of shrubs and perennials, so it’ll look like it’s part of the landscape,” Milani explains.

Already the scene for charity events, garden walks, and many gatherings of family and friends, the updated outdoor entertainment space has far exceeded the owners’ expectations. “We have other families over all the time, so there are always lots of kids in the yard,” Christy says. And Jared is especially thrilled to finally have his own backyard entertaining space: “When he gets home, he heads right outside. We have a lot of fun out there.”

R E A D MO R E AT M A K E IT B E T T E R .COM / R E A LE STAT E

M A K E IT B E T T E R J U LY/AU G US T 2018 101

You are like fireworks. You go out into your children, your friends, your society, and the whole world.

THICH NHAT HANH

102 J U LY/AU G US T 20 18 M A K E IT B E T T E R

TED PANAGIOTOPOULOS

Reflections

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