Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

December 31, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of The Insider's Weekend Guide. This week we're focused on New Years Eve celebrations happening throughout Wicker Park and Bucktown. So if you're still looking for ideas, you've found the right place. But that's not all, we've included Time Out's 2011 picks for Favorite Food & Drinks in the neighborhood and an extra big sale to end the year. Enjoy the holiday and we hope you have a terrific - and safe - New Years Eve. 

   Bars

     New Years Eve Bar Parties

It's safe to assume every bar in the neighborhood is having a party. But here's a handy guide to some of the very best New Years Eve packages available this year. 

 

    New Years Day Bears & Brunch

So it's New Years Day and you're looking for a comfortable and casual neighborhood spot to watch the game. Look no further than Standard Bar & Grill. Flat screens fill the room and you'll be treated to a fun and casual neighborhood hang-out with great specials. They're also serving brunch. 

 

  Galleries

   Angelicies Continues at Jackson Junge      

Angelicies: A Look At The Modern Day Angel - is the perfect holiday exhibition featuring 20 Chicago-based artists. Head to Wicker Park's beautiful Jackson Junge Gallery to see the artists' interpretations of what an angels may truly look like.

 

  Music 

   The BEST New Years Eve Shows

Looking for a non-traditional - yet fun and entertaining - way to spend New Years Eve? Head to your closest music venue. This year we've got 2 great shows on New Years Eve: The Disappears and Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears. Details are attached. 

 

  Restaurants

   

We know that bar parties aren't for everyone. So we've included some great alternatives for dinner. You'll find everything from authentic Greek fare to Italian appetizers and entrees to gluten-free menus and more. There really is something for everyone and the champagne is included.

 

  Time Out Chicago's Best Of 2011

It's that time again, for Time Out Chicago to publish their favorite Chicago food and drinks list. We've taken the liberty to provide you with their favorite spots in Wicker Park and Bucktown ... and there are many. Check out the details here. 

 

  Retail/Shopping

   Greenheart Shop's BIG Holiday Sale

Greenheart shop is eco-friendly & committed to supporting fair trade practices. This week they're playing host to an incredible sale of 50% off holiday merchandise. But that's not all. Lots of beautiful one-of-a-kind items are on sale so be sure to stop by Greenheart before the end of the year.

 

  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. Dennis Watkins performs his magic every Friday night in Wicker Park. New Years he's performing an intimate show at The Palmer House. And although it's not happening in Wicker Park this weekend, it's sure to be a fun way to spend New Years Eve.

 

  The Magic Parlour's Special New Years Eve Show

Don't miss the very talented Dennis Watkins and his special New Years Eve performance at The Palmer House. Only 36 seats are available so don't wait until the last minute to buy your tickets. Champagne toast is included.

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.  We also include over 400 businesses in our directory. So if you're looking for a particular restaurant, shop or bar be sure to let us know. And for up-to-the-minute news throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates and news daily. We'd love to have you.

 

If you're a Wicker Park or Bucktown business, make sure you're included in The 2012 Insider's Guide. There's no better way to reach the community. Find out more here.

 

In closing, we wish you and yours a very happy, safe and healthy new year. Thanks again for your support and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Hello and Happy Saturday. Here are our picks for a few great events happening the neighborhood today and tonight. Don't let a little dusting of snow stand in your way! 

 

 

Breakfast at Riverside Cafe- Bacon, eggs, sausage, pancakes and fruit.

Just $5.50- All Day Long

 

 

  Grand Opening of Kids Rule - Wicker Park's newest toy store.

 

 

Wine Tasting

Saturday December 17th  3pm - 6pm

Life's A Cabernet - 1937 W. North Avenue - Wicker Park

Plus check out our deal for 6 Bottles of Wine for only $49 !

 

 

Boobs and Goombas - A Super Mario Burlesque

Saturdays 11:00pm

Gorilla Tango Theater 1919 N. Milwaukee Avenue - Bucktown

 

 

The Show Below - Free Comedy

Every Friday and Saturday at 9:00pm

Crocodile 1540 N. Milwaukee Avenue Wicker Park

 

 

Blue Line's Ugly Sweater Contest

Saturday December 17th. Starts at 10pm

Blue Line Lounge - 1548 N. Milwaukee Avenue - Wicker Park

 

 

Fellowship of the Boobs Burlesque Adventure

Thursdays & Saturdays

Gorilla Tango Theatre 1919 N. Milwaukee Avenue

 

 

December 16, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of The Insider's Weekend Guide. As we're writing, the weather forecast is predicting 50+ degrees in Chicago --- in December. So there's no reason to stay inside. If you're looking for a place to ring in the new year, we've provided our initial guide below but we're still finalizing the information this week. So be sure to check back for our final list of recommendations. What will you find in Wicker Park and Bucktown this weekend? New restaurants, the artists' angels, grand openings, carolers, pirates and more. For more detailed information, just click on the photos. Thanks, as always, for joining us and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

   Bars

       New Years Eve Celebrations 

If you're looking for a fun spot to ring in the new year, we're developing our annual Neighborhood New Years Eve Guide to some of the best parties in the area. We're continuing to update your NYE Guide daily as additional information becomes available. So be sure and check back later this week for our final list of recommendations.

 

 

  Galleries

Angelicies Continues at Jackson Junge      

Angelicies: A Look At The Modern Day Angel - is the perfect holiday exhibition featuring 20 Chicago-based artists. Head to Wicker Park's beautiful Jackson Junge Gallery to see the artists' interpretations of what an angel may truly look like.

 

  Music 

   93XRT's Richard Milne

Many people don't know that 93XRT DJ Richard Milne is - not only a great DJ who avidly supports local artists - he's also a long-time Wicker Park resident. If you missed it earlier, here is our interview with Richard in celebration of his 20 Year Anniversary with Local Anesthetic.  Richard shares his views on his Sunday night show, the Chicago music scene and how his neighborhood has changed over the years.

 

  Restaurants

   

Watch out Sultan's and Babylon. There's a new spot for falafel in the neighborhood ... and it's good. Now open at 1317 N. Milwaukee Avenue, please welcome Falafel & Grill. Fresh ingredients, generous servings, flavorful food, late hours and reasonable prices make this new Wicker Park eatery a winner.

 

 

     Gratto is Open - But Not for Lunch - Yet

Gratto has opened their doors and this tiny Italian deli features sandwiches and specialty pizzas. Although hoping to be open for lunch by now, they're only open for dinner. Stay tuned for additional details. 

 

   Spend New Years Eve with Via Carducci

Looking for a different alternative to bars for New Years Eve? How about a fantastic Italian dinner and champagne? Don't wait too long to make your NYE reservations at Via Carducci.

 

  Retail/Shopping

  Psychic Nancy Wallace Returns to Elevenzees

Curious to know what's in store for you in the future? Be sure to schedule your appointment with psychic Nancy Wallace. As we were writing this, only 1 appointment was open for Saturday. Her days fill up quickly. So if you're interested, hurry !!

 

      

 

        The Silver Room Celebrates 14 Years

  Please join us in wishing a very Happy Anniversary and warm congratulations to The Silver Room who are celebrating their 14th Anniversary this week. A party is planned for Friday night. We're invited and so are you. Check out our interview with owner Eric Williams and the details of the party right here.

 

 

    Kids Rule - Grand Opening Party Saturday

Toys, books, birthday party supplies and more are moving on to Milwaukee Avenue. Kids Rule officially opens their doors this Saturday with a Grand Opening Party starting at 10am. On Saturday, you can have your pictures taken with Santa, have fun with face painting, enjoy a few healthy snacks and take home a biodegradable balloon. There will also be a cute little spot where kids can try out the building blocks and toys before they take them home. Sounds like fun!

 

 

      Luxury Garage Sale Opens in Bucktown

Love Chanel but hate the price? You will fall in love with Luxury Garage Sale - the neighborhood's newest upscale consignment shop. Now open at 1656 N. Bosworth Avenue. Luxury Garage Sale was opened by 2 long-time friends who have a flair for fashion and passion for great deals. Find your Giorgio Armani now for a fraction of its original cost. Interested in selling? Contacting Luxury Garage Sale for details.

 

  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:

 

Pirates of Penzance

Lots of fun and given 3 1/2 stars by the Chicago Tribune, don't miss Pirates of Penzance at The Chopin. Follow Frederic the orphan who has been mistakenly apprenticed to a raucous band of pirates.

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have so 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

Hello and welcome to the Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide; the most current and comprehensive Neighborhood Guide to Wicker Park & Bucktown. Here you'll find all of the very best Special Events, Nightlife, Restaurants, Bars, Shopping, Theater, Gallery Exhibitions ... and more in the neighborhood. Need a recommendation for dinner or entertainment? We can help you. Just let us know what you need and we'll give your our honest opinion.

But that's not all. The Insider's Guide is the only Neighborhood Guide that provides an incredible comprehensive 300+ Business Directory plus the most current neighborhood news available all in one place. Want to know where the latest gym is popping up -- or what the new hot restaurant will be? We'll let you know. Looking for all of the Mexican Restaurants in the neighborhood? We can tell you that too. That combination of information isn't available anywhere else.

And for all of those reasons, The Insider's Guide has quickly become the go-to Neighborhood Guide for tens of thousands of people.

But that's not all. You're also provided with easy access to special sales & promotions happening throughout the neighborhood. So you can enjoy the best of the neighborhood and get an "insider" deal in the process.

Launched by an award-winning marketing expert and long-time Wicker Park resident, you'll find special insight you can't find anywhere else. Because of our professionalism and up-to-the minute news, we have quickly established positive relationships with our media partners: NBC News, CBS News, The Local Tourist, Chicagoist, Gapers Block, Eater Chicago, The Michelin Guide, The Huffington Post, RedEye and Metromix. Want to have the most current information? Come to the Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide.

Last but not least, we are are independently owned and operated, creative, and progressive; just like the neighborhoods in which we live. There are no political agendas or affiliations; just a commitment to supporting and promoting our neighborhood and businesses by providing our viewers with great information. So when you support the Insider's Guide, you directly support the Wicker Park & Bucktown communities. Join our team. We'd love to have you.

For additional information and details, please feel free to contact us directly any time.

Thanks and we'll see you in the neighborhood. 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

December 9, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of The Insider's Weekend Guide. We're finalizing our picks for New Years Eve so be sure to look for our extensive guide to the best parties next week. The neighborhood has embraced the holiday spirit and we are happy to share information about the festivities with you. Holiday parties, movies, art shows, exhibitions, music documentaries, great deals and more are waiting for you. For more detailed information, just click on the photos. Last but not least, the CTA Holiday Car will be featured on the Blue Line December 8th -10th. So keep your eyes open for the Holiday Car if you use the Blue Line. It's always fun to see. Thanks, as always, for joining us and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

   Bars

       Holiday Movies & Free Popcorn 

Looking for a fun way to celebrate the holidays? Every Sunday night Blue Line Lounge is featuring lots of great food, holiday movies and free popcorn. This week's features: A Christmas Story and It's A Wonderful Life.

  Community

     Bucktown Holiday Art Show

 

This weekend 100 artists will be displaying and selling their creative work: from photography to textiles, watercolors to oils, jewelry to ceramics--and a whole lot more!

 

        Design Bucktown's New Park

A new park is being planned for Milwaukee Avenue and Leavitt Avenue in Bucktown. Want to help design it? We've been invited to participate in the planning process and so have you. The next meeting will be next week.

 

      The BCO Annual Holiday Party

Live in Bucktown? Don't miss the Bucktown Community Organization's Annual Holiday Party. Each year the BCO hosts an annual party so neighbors can get to know each other and each year it's hosted by Hot Chocolate. There are few tickets still remaining. But they won't last long.

 

 

  Galleries

       A Tree With All The Trimmings      

Looking for a fun and creative way to spend time with your kids this weekend? Look no further than Color Wheel Studio. You can decorate your very own tree and use it as a festive holiday centerpiece.

  "Symphonic" Opens Friday

Please join the Park Schrek Gallery on Friday for their opening reception of their newest exhibition Symphonic. Symphonic will feature the work of artists Rebecca Moy and Mark Mackinnon and the reception will be held from 7pm -10pm this Friday, December 9th.

 

 

  Music 

    Kathryn Calder (New Pornographers) - Wednesday

Next Wednesday don't miss Kathryn Calder's Solo Show at Double Door. Before joining The New Pornographers Kathryn was busy working on her solo career and has recently released her new EP called "Are You My Mother". Catch her show next week. 

 

    Film Documentary Screening - A Band Called Karp

Set in the Pacific Northwest against the backdrop of the Olympia, WA post punk and Riot girl movements of the early 90's, the film details the joys and tragedies of a band called KARP.

 

 

 

  Restaurants

   

Riverside Cafe is offering free coffee every Monday in December from 7am-9am. So now you can start your week off on a great note. Carry-out only. But that's not all. Riverside is also offering 15% off to all college students. Just bring in your valid student id when you head to Riverside Cafe.

 

            Gratto Opens for Business

We were so happy to see that Gratto has opened their doors! This adorable and cozy Italian deli features salads, sandwiches and specialty pizza. We're loving the deli case and olives. Soft opening this week and they should be fully up and running by the weekend.

 

          Enter to Win Brunch for 2 at Blue Star

Blue Star Bistro has introduced an incredible Sunday Brunch and we're giving away 2 spots for this weekend.  Just head to our Facebook or Twitter pages to be entered to win. But hurry! We're picking our winner this Friday.

 

 

 

  Retail/Shopping

     Psychic Nancy Wallace Returns to Elevenzees

Curious to know what's in store for you in the future? Be sure to schedule your appointment with psychic Nancy Wallace. Nancy returns to Chicago several times a year and her appointments fill up very quickly. So book yours now.

 

         Buy Local at NEW'D and Pay No Sales Tax

NEW'D is a great shop on Division Street that features new and used clothing, accessories, jewelry, shoes and more. You'll find terrific deals and one-of-a-kind items. And right now, when you purchase any locally made item at NEW'D, they'll waive your sales tax. So shop local and shop NEW'D.

 

        Countdown to Christmas at Greenheart Shop

Every day Wicker Park's eco-friendly Greenheart Shop is featuring different sales and you can save an additional $10 right here.  Us this coupon in the store on Division Street or online. But hurry! This offer is ending soon. Shop green and save a little green.

 

 

 

 

  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 Saturday: 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 so 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

December 2, 2011
 

If you  missed it Thursday (we originally issued this Thursday December 1st), here is this week's edition of our Weekend Guide. We hope everyone had a terrific Thanksgiving. It's hard to believe it's already December 1st! This weekend there are lots of fantastic events happening throughout the neighborhood including Do Division Holiday, Renegade Craft Fair and so much more.  Even though the Summer months are great, there's really nothing quite like the holiday season. Thank you for joining us and we'll see in you in the neighborhood.

   Community

       1st Ward - 1st Thursday with Alderman Moreno

Live in the 1st Ward? Come join your Alderman Joe Moreno tonight at the Boundary. The first drink is on Alderman Moreno and The Boundary is featuring some of their very best appetizers. So be sure to stop by and say hi.

       Do Division Holiday This Weekend

Do Division Holiday takes place this weekend and starts at 11am on both Saturday and Sunday. Gift bags, special promotions and holiday cheer will be spread up and down Division Street so be sure to stop by.

      New Park Heads to Bucktown - Help Design it 

A new park is being planned at the corner of Leavitt and Milwaukee Avenue in Bucktown. Would you like to help design it? Well be sure to attend the meeting this evening and you can share your thoughts and recommendations.

 

       Renegade Craft Fair This Weekend

The Renegade Craft Fair heads back in to Chicago this weekend. Arts and Crafts will be showcased all weekend long at Pulaski Park Field House. So you may be able to find a few gifts... just in time for the holidays.

       Creating A Sustainable Garden - Lecture

Join Anne Roberts Gardens on Monday for her presentation about sustainable gardens at the Wicker Park Field House. Anne will discuss the inspiration for her designs, how she approaches a project with her client and will show details of her favorite designs.

 

 

  Galleries

            Mixed Media Artist Exhibition

Please join The Silver Room Friday for their opening reception for artist Stephen Flemister. Flemister is a mixed media artist who was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago. The opening reception will be held from 7pm -10pm.

 

  Music 

 

        New Shows on Sale Saturday

If you'd like to know which shows are coming up soon, here are the shows going on sale this Saturday at Double Door. We're also in the process of updating the New Years Eve party information so stay tuned.

       Free Music Mondays

Once again The Empty Bottle has launched their free music Mondays. So now you can catch a great show and there's no cover.  This week (December 5th) Mr. Psychic, Oozing Wound and Mr. 666. Show starts at 9:30pm.

  Restaurants

   

We extend a very warm congratulations to Club Lucky for being voted by Yahoo as 1 of Chicago's Top 10 Restaurants for Holiday Decorations. They're in great company and the recognition is well-deserved! You can check out the decorations any time when you plan a festive dinner or you can stop by Club Lucky's Martini Party this Wednesday and taste those Christmas Martinis for yourself.

  Tequila Breakfast - This Saturday - at Prasino

 This Saturday only be sure to stop by Prasino for their Tequila Breakfast! Chef Scott Halverson has quite a menu planned and it's a great way to kick off your weekend. Breakfast starts bright and early at 9am and reservations are required. You can find the menu and reservation information right here. 

 

 

  Retail/Shopping

   The Wicker Perks

Don't you love those great little deals that no one else knows about? So do we. So be sure to keep checking the Wicker Perks.  We feature great deals and special sales 365 days a year -- most of which you won't find anywhere else --- and they change almost every week. So check back often and see what cool "insider" specials are happening in the neighborhood. 

 

  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:

 

   Acro-Cats: A Very Meowy Christmas

This weekend: those Acro-Cats are back for a special holiday show this weekend. These shows are fun for all ages and usually sell out very early. So be sure to get your tickets early !

 

   Pirates of Penzance - Now Open at The Chopin

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have many special events and news 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.

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

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide