November 17, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of The Insider Weekend Guide. If you've signed up to receive our Weekend Guide, you'll receive it every Thursday morning at 6am. If you haven't signed up, you receive it much later. So some of these events may have already occurred. Sign up! So you never miss a thing.

Many of you have been inquiring about the space formerly occupied by the US Postal Service on Division Street. With the help of Alderman Moreno's office, we've learned the space is being converted into a gym and are happy to hear the news. We don't have a lot of details at this time but will share what we know when we receive additional information.

We will not be issuing a full Weekend Guide next week due to Thanksgiving holiday. We will, however, continue to be very active on the Insider's Guide website and via all of our social media channels. So if you need us, please don't hesitate to let us know. There are many festive holiday parties and big promotions & sales happening so we will continue to keep you apprised of any and all neighborhood news. In the interim, we hope you have a terrific Thanksgiving Holiday. Thanks, as always, for your support and we'll see you in the neighborhood. 

 

   Bars

 
      The Anthem's Grand Opening

At long last, the owners of Bangers & Lace have opened the doors of The Anthem; the retro 1970's sports bar serving up meat loaf, mashed potatoes, fried twinkies and Budweiser. The soft opening was last night but the Grand Opening is today. We're heading there shortly and hope to see you there.

    Piece's Thanksgiving Eve Party

Join Piece on Thanksgiving Eve (November 23rd) for the tapping of their Holiday Brew Festivus, live band karaoke, $4 well drinks, $4 Wild Turkey and all the New Haven style pizza you can handle. 

 

 

   Chili Cook Off

Moonshine's 3rd Annual Warm Up & Bear Down Chili Cook Off arrives this weekend. The first prize winner will walk away with $500 in cash and the highly coveted Gilded Ladle Award. You'll find every type of chili here and the audience is encouraged to participate in selecting a winner. The cost is only $5 if you bring a warm coat to donate.

 

  Community

  Holiday Fountain Decorating Social

Every year the Wicker Park Garden Club does an incredible job of decorating the fountain and park for the holidays. This year the WPGC and Chicago Park District will be kicking off their festivities on November 19th. We're invited and so are you !

 

  Galleries

Angelicies - Opening Reception Friday at Jackson Junge

“Angelicies: A Look At the Modern Day Angel” a group exhibit featuring 20 Chicago based artists, will be on display at the Jackson Junge Gallery, 1389 N. Milwaukee Ave, through January 15, 2012.  An opening reception, free to the public, will be held Friday, November 18, 6pm – 9pm. 

  Restaurants

We extend a very warm congratulations to the winners of the 2012 Michelin Guide Restaurant Awards. Winning a Michelin Guide Award is a very big accomplishment and all 2012 winners were winners in 2011 as well. Great job Wicker Park & Bucktown restaurants on this very impressive accomplishment!

 

  Forever Yogurt's New Hot Chocolate Bar

Just in time for the cold weather, Forever Yogurt has introduced their brand new hot chocolate bar called Froth.  And we're not talking powdery mixes here. This is the real deal with this decadent drink being made with melted chocolate.

This weekend Club Lucky kicks off the holiday season with their award-winning holiday decorations which will be ready for viewing on Sunday November 20th. Grab a great Italian meal and incredible martini while you're there. Sounds like a perfect way to spend an evening in Bucktown. 

  Retail/Shopping

   Grown Folks Stories Celebrates 2 Years

Grown Folk's Stories celebrates their 2nd anniversary at The Silver Room tonight. Hosted by Cara Brigandi, there will be a reception from 6-8pm with DJ Jay Too and special live performance by SSSSnake! Stories will be follow from 8-10pm with giveaways and prizes.     

  Clever Alice Celebrates 15 Years

15 Years ago Clever Alice was located on Clark Street in Lincoln Park. They quickly expanded into the River North neighborhood and eventually landed in Bucktown 3 years ago. Being a successful business owner for 15 years is a huge accomplishment and we hope you'll have a chance to wish Clever Alice a very Happy Anniversary tonight!

 

    An Orange Moon Grand Opening Party

Looking for uber - hip vintage furnishings and furniture? Well guess who's moved in to the neighborhood? Please join An Orange Moon for their Grand Opening Celebration this Friday. Food, drinks, music and cool vintage style are all waiting for you.

    Lush's  Grand Opening Party - Saturday

Lush Bucktown is hosting their Grand Opening party this coming Saturday the 19th from 1-6PM. It's open to the public but you should RSVP first because the first 100 RSVPs who show up get a Golden Wonder Bath Bomb.

 

                     Small Business Saturday - November 26th 

Show your support! Shop local on November 26th. It's a great way to give back to those who have helped to build our incredible neighborhoods. 

 

  Theater

We love the variety of theater and performing arts options available to us every week. Everything from comedy to drama to film and more. Check our  Theater  section for the many performances included in the Insider's Guide. Here's a fun pick for the weekend:

     Life's Ruff Tonight !

Dog lovers! Don't miss Life's Ruff tonight at the Gorilla Tango Theatre. 12 previously homeless dogs perform their hearts out for 1 night only.

 

    The Nutcracker - Back By Popular Demand

The House’s newly imagined version of THE NUTCRACKER first premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 2007, was at The Chopin in 2010 and is back at the Chopin Theatre this year due to popular demand. You can catch this holiday classic through December 30th.

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have many special events on our website. So feel free to check in...often ...for the most updated information available. Or for additional neighborhood information throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates/information daily. We'd love to have you.

Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Winter (Wicker Park) Park District 2012 Programming   

Winter Session - The Chicago Park District 
Session Dates: January 2, 2012 - March 24, 2012       

On Line Registration - Classes listed now - You can view and mark as favorites
On-Line Registration Begins Monday, November 28 at 9am
Registration in the Park is held at 9am on Saturday, December 3

VIEW on line Registration For Wicker Park Here: http://programs.chicagoparkdistrict.com/programBrowser/#01118510000000000

BASIC on line View for all Parks (Just Pick Your Park of Choice in Drop Down box) - http://programs.chicagoparkdistrict.com/programBrowser/

November 10, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of The Insider's Guide. Despite the gloomy weather, we have lots of news and special announcements to share. This week we're including everything from fundraisers, to new Asian eateries, to 11-11-11 Parties and more.  For additional information, just click on the photos. Thanks, as always, for joining us and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

   Bars

           Support Movember - A Great Cause

Please join The Bedford this month and support Movember. Movember is an annual event which helps raise both awareness - and money - for issues regarding Men's health. It's a terrific & worthy cause and we hope you'll join us.

 

       Chili Cook Off- Early Warning

Moonshine's 3rd Annual Warm Up & Bear Down Chili Cook Off is right around the corner. The first prize winner will walk away with $500 in cash and the highly coveted Gilded Ladle Award. You'll find every type of chili here and the audience is encouraged to participate in selecting a winner. The cost is only $5 if you bring a warm coat to donate.

 

  Community

     Holiday Fountain Decorating Social

Every year the Wicker Park Garden Club does an incredible job of decorating the fountain and park for the holidays. This year the WPGC and Chicago Park District will be kicking off their festivities on November 19th. We're invited and so are you !

 

  Galleries

      Meet the Artist - Monique Meloche

This weekend be sure to stop by the Monique Meloche Gallery and you can enjoy cookies, coffee and a discussion with local artists Scott Stack and Michelle Grabner.

     New Work Opens Friday

Please join the Park Schrek Gallery on Friday November 11th for their Opening Reception of the work of Ray Becoskie. Ray is a modern abstract painter out of St. Paul, Minnesota. His work has a simple, sophisticated edge and the opening reception is from 7:00pm-10:00pm.

 

 

  Music 

      Meat Puppets at Double Door

This Friday don't miss the legendary Meat Puppets at the Double Door. The Kirkwood brothers will be bringing a mix of classic favorites and new releases to this year's tour. We have also added a feature to the Insider's Guide for tickets going on sale this Saturday. If you like to buy your tickets in advance, be sure to check it out. 

 

     Handmade Market

It's time again for the Monthly Handmade Market being hosted by The Empty Bottle. This Saturday head to "The Bottle" where 33 sellers will be showcasing their beautiful and unique products. Did we mention it's FREE? 

 

 

  Restaurants

   

We extend a very warm congratulations to both Dee's Soul Food and Harold's Chicken Shack who were both recognized recently as having the best fried chicken by 2 food experts. Dee's Soul Food was included in a review provided by Kevin Pang and the Chicago Tribune and Harold's Chicken Shack was recognized by Food & Wine Magazine. Great job.

 

        Your Chinese, Korean, Japanese & Thai Favorites

Please welcome Thee Asian Restaurant to Wicker Park. Thee offers Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese and Korean favorite and they're serving up many of the traditional stand-bys like: Crab Rangoon, Japanese Vegetable Dumplings, Shrimp Tempura and Seaweed Salad, Curries, Noodle Dishes, Sushi and a long list of smoothies. Their menu is relatively extensive and you'll also receive 15% off through December 31st.

 

              Prasino's Complimentary Coffee & New Menu 

 This month feel free to stop by and request your complimentary cup of the new Prasino Blend roasted locally by Bridgeport Brewing Company. Prasino is also launching a new "On-the-Go" breakfast menu in November. For those who may not have heard, Prasino played host to a cab through their window. Everyone is fine and Prasino is back in full swing.

 

  Retail/Shopping

      Celebrate 11-11-11 With Elevenzees

Please join Elevenzees this Friday for their 11-11-11 party. You'll find 22% discounts, prizes, food and wine in this beautiful Wicker Park boutique. A perfect opportunity to get a start on that holiday shopping and have a little fun while you're doing it. Did we mention it starts at 11:00am?

 

      Neighborhood Toy Store Day

During this special weekend, Nov 12-13, visit all three of your local toy stores to see what our unique shops have to offer you this holiday season. Get a sticker upon each shop visit and when you collect your 3rd sticker, you will earn $30 in toy money! Stores included in the celebration? Building Block Toys (2130 W. Division Street), Cat & Mouse Game Store (2212 W. Armitage) and Play (3109 W. Logan Boulevard).

 

      Zaraz Announces Closing

We are sorry to report that Zaraz Collection will be closing their retail shop on Division Street in Wicker Park after 2 years in the neighborhood.  They've launched a big liquidation sale where everything is currently 20-40% off. Best of luck to our friends at Zaraz.

 

 

  Theater

We love the variety of theater and performing arts options available to us every week. Everything from comedy to drama to film and more. Check our  Theater  section for the many performances included in the Insider's Guide. Here's a fun pick for the weekend:

 

     True Story - Keeps You Guessing

This weekend only: A handful of comedy writers share short stories that sound as if they are true. But only one of the stories is real. Which one is it?  

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have 100s of special events on our website. So feel free to check in...often ...for the most updated information available. Or for additional neighborhood information throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates/information daily. We'd love to have you.

If you're a business and would like to be featured in the Insider's Guide or would like to renew your spot in 2012, be sure to contact us by November 15th. To the many who have already signed up, thanks so much. We're looking forward to a fantastic 2012 !

 

Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Become a Member of the Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide Website. Sign Up! It's absolutely free and when you become a registered Member of the Insider's Guide, you can Submit Comments, Rate Restaurants - Bars - or Neighborhood shops, Submit Events and more.

 

And your information is kept 100% confidential. Your comments are also completely anonymous.

 

So sign up! And start rating the restaurants, bars and shops. We love - and value - the feedback we've been getting from our viewers whether it's good, bad or ugly. Let us know what you think. 

 

Thanks and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

Your Wicker Park Bucktown Insider

 

November 3, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of your  Insider Weekend Guide.  Last weekend was packed with great Halloween Events and the Fall weather was perfect. We hope you had a terrific time. Here are a few of our photos from Boo Palooza; where this year the community festival enjoyed a record turnout! A very warm "thank you" to Building Block Toys for participating with us and very big "thank you" to everyone who came. We can't wait for next year.

It's already November and we're hitting the ground running. We're happy to be your Guide to news and great neighborhood Fall events. Thanks, as always, for your support. For additional information regarding any of the events below, just click on the accompanying photo. As a friendly reminder ... this is the weekend to turn your clocks back. You know you're approaching Winter when the time change happens but at least we can look forward to an extra hour of sleep this weekend. So plan accordingly and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

   Bars

      Annual Pig Roast

This weekend don't miss The Southern's Annual Fall Pig Roast. On Saturday you can enjoy as much food - and Shiner Bock - as you'd like.  Guest Chef Rob Levitt from Butcher & Larder will also be participating in this great Fall event.

 

    Chili Cook Off- Early Warning

Just an early warning so you can mark your calendars for Moonshine's 3rd Annual Warm Up & Bear Down Chili Cook Off. The first prize winner will walk away with $500 in cash and the highly coveted Gilded Ladle Award. You'll find every type of chili here and the audience is encouraged to participate in selecting a winner. The cost is only $5 if you bring a warm coat to donate.

  Community

   Punk Rock Karaoke w Alderman Moreno

Yes we know Alderman Moreno works hard to keep the neighborhood running smoothly. But can he sing? Find out Friday. Lots of fun and a good cause. 

 

 

  Landscape Design Garden Lecture

The Wicker Park Garden Club is hard at work  and next Monday you can attend their Landscape Design Lecture series. This week's lecture will focus on how you can create an eco-friendly garden with a focus on roof top gardens, rain barrels and more. 

 

Food Planet Food Tasting & Cultural Tours

Chicago Food Planet has been hosting a tour throughout Wicker Park and Bucktown where you can learn more about the history of the neighborhood while enjoying food at a variety of great spots like Hot Chocolate and Piece. But time is running out. The tours will end for the season on November 26th. So if you haven't signed up yet, do it soon. The tours have been filling up well in advance.

 

  Galleries

  Meet the Artist - Jackson Junge Gallery

This weekend don't miss the opportunity to meet the very talented Laura Lee Junge. Jackson Junge Gallery will be hosting an Artist Discussion this Sunday from 2pm -4pm. We're invited and so are you. 

  First Fridays at The Flat Iron

Please join the Flat Iron Artists this Friday from 6pm - 10pm and explore 4 floors or beautiful artwork at the Flat Iron Building at 1579 N. Milwaukee Avenue. The work is displayed in artist studios and their living spaces.

 

 

  Music 

  Meat Puppets Head to Double Door

Next Friday don't miss the legendary Meat Puppets at the Double Door. The Kirkwood brothers will be bringing a mix of classic favorites and new releases to this year's tour. 

 

  Restaurants

  Tozi & Gratto Opening Soon

We've been anxiously awaiting the opening of these 2 new spots in Wicker Park and stopped in to visit Tozi earlier this week. We were told they're hoping to open Friday.  Tozi looks like a great spot from the little we could see as this new eatery is still very much under construction. And Gratto (located at Damen & Evergreen) is also trying hard to open this week. Our fingers are crossed.

 

Live Music, FREE Dessert & More at Blue Star 

Looking for a new spot off the beaten path? Blue Star Bistro & Wine Bar is a great cozy and casual spot tucked away at Division and Noble. Blue Star has just kicked off their incredible Fall Menu which will include roasted chicken and braised lamb shank for something a little different. But that's not all. They've also introduced the Dirty Martini Appetizer. All we can tell you is it involves green olives stuffed with cheese. For additional information about this great spot including how ladies can score a FREE dessert and/or the live music they're showcasing this 

 

  Retail/Shopping

  SAVE $10 at Greenheart Shop !

Greenheart Shop is more than just an amazing Wicker Park retailer. Greenheart Shop has a mission. This eco-friendly shop is committed to working with and supporting fair trade practices. What does that mean? That means they only work with those who provide their employees with a fair wage and good/safe working conditions. Greenheart Shop works with over 60 artisans worldwide and their store is just beautiful. You'll find one-of-a-kind items for your home, clothing and so much more for both men and women. And because you're an Insider, you can receive $10 off your next purchase. See the attached for details. A perfect gift to you  and just in time for the holidays.

 

  Theater

We love the variety of theater and performing arts options available to us every week. Everything from comedy to drama to film and more. Check our  Theater  section for the many performances included in the Insider's Guide. Here are 2 of this week's highlights:

 

  All Souls Jazz Festival

All Souls’ Day Jazz Fest - annual Polish-American music festival of internationally renowned jazz artists and talented young performers. The festival mirrors an annual jazz festival in the historic city of Krakow, Poland and heads to The Chopin on Monday. 

  Life's Ruff - One Night Only

We're providing plenty of advance notice for this terrific event. Usually they have shows several nights per month but in November it's one night only. Come watch the great story of rescue dogs and how they've been transformed... at Gorilla Tango Theatre. 

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have 100s of special events on our website. So feel free to check in...often ...for the most updated information available. Or for additional neighborhood information throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates/information daily. We'd love to have you.

If you're a business and would like to be featured in the Insider's Guide or would like to renew your spot in 2012, be sure to contact us. To the many who have already signed up, thanks so much. We're looking forward to a fantastic 2012 !

 

Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Partnering with Wicker Park's Building Block Toys, we had the best time at Boo Palooza in Wicker Park this year and are excited to report a record turnout!  Over 2,000 people attended this year's event in the Park which focused on children and dogs. Costume parades, apple bobbing, puppet shows and more were all showcased last Saturday October 29th 2011 from 10am -2pm in Wicker Park proper: 1425 N. Damen Avenue.

 

The event was supported by over 33 local businesses and facilitated by the Wicker Park Advisory Council.

 

 If you were there, check the photos. We took lots of pictures of the cutest - and nicest - kids ever!

 

 

Photos on Facebook.