👎 Why tourists gave these spots 1 star

Mexican Independence Day Fest Caravans

Chicago police said they would have “zero tolerance” for car caravans during El Grito Fest in Grant Park next weekend. Organizers said the fest could help reduce traffic by giving residents a place to celebrate. Others say caravanning is part of the celebration. [Block Club]

Recapping Summertime Chi Weather

Chicago saw more tornadoes in a day than what usually happens in a year thanks to the mid-July derecho. [WTTW]

Ravinia v. Ravinia Finale

The suburban brewery will change its name and rebrand after reaching an agreement with the Highland Park festival, which had sued the beer maker a year ago for alleged trademark infringement. [Crain’s 🔒]

Why Tourists Gave These Chicago Attractions 1 Star

Can you guess popular Chicago attractions based on brutal Yelp and TripAdvisor reviews? Dario Durham and Sara Faddah, the hosts behind the 77 Flavors podcast, join us. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

I was at first nervous about raw shellfish in the Midwest. But per usual, Chicago’s culinary scene does not disappoint.

September is traditionally the start of oyster season, so here are some tips for enjoying these decadent morsels.

‘R’ Month Myth?

Maybe you’ve heard you should only eat fresh oysters in months that end in “r.” But improvements in refrigeration, oyster farming, and food safety standards mean it’s generally safe to eat the shellfish year-round, Southern Living reports.

Still, never eat an oyster if it smells bad or looks cloudy or off-color. If you’re shucking your own, avoid cracked or already-open oysters.

Chicago Oyster Spots

In a city of steakhouses, happy hours, and fine dining, a quick search will reveal any number of best oyster lists. Here are three spots I can vouch for:

• 🥇 Swift & Sons Tavern — I was pleasantly surprised by the variety at the Wrigleyville spot’s happy hour, which features $2 oysters.
• 🥈 The Publican — Ask your oyster questions here because the staff at this Fulton Market restaurant are super knowledgeable.
• 🥉 Uvae — I came to the Andersonville wine bar for the happy hour oysters. But I stayed for the $5 glasses of cava.

Next on my list? Queen Mary in Ukrainian Village, Heritage in Humboldt Park, and Chicago Oyster House in South Loop.

We’re asking you to decide on the ultimate Chicago symbol in the semifinals of our icon tournament.

The Matchups

• The ‘90s Bulls vs. the Sears Tower
• House music vs. the Chicago–style hot dog

Plus, the Faceoffs You Wanted to See

• “The Bear” vs. “Shameless”
• Clark the Cub vs. Southpaw
• Lake Michigan vs. Chicago River