City Cast Chicago
😆 Chicago’s best comedy spots
November 21, 2024 · —Sidney Madden
Happy Thursday! As we head into the busy holiday season, bookmark our events page, which includes fun happenings like turkey trots and holiday bars. You can always send us an event through this form!
What's CITY Talking About?
National Association of Realtors’ Perks
Leaders at the Chicago-based nonprofit group used company money to see Broadway shows, take first-class plane rides, and more. While not a charity, trade groups can fly under regulators’ radars. The group has also recently faced sexual harassment allegations and a lawsuit on inflated commissions. [New York Times 🎁]
Ukrainians in Chicago React to Second Trump Term
Some Ukrainian Americans in Chicago are worried that Ukraine will surrender to Russia when President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Others are hopeful a peace agreement will be reached after almost three years of war. [Block Club]
When you're able to take something that was infuriating half a second ago, and suddenly we're all laughing about it — that's comedy, baby!
Why Chicago is Comedy Capital of the World
Need a laugh in this news cycle? One local comedian shares the best spots to check out, hidden gems, and tips for when your friend inevitably invites you to their improv show. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Food & Drink: Restaurant Openings
With winter fast approaching, consider cozying up inside at some of the new restaurants around town.
Recent Openings
Fire in Fulton Market
After closing Roister last weekend, the Alinea Group debuted its new restaurant highlighting open-fire cooking techniques this week.
Monday Coffee in North Lawndale
The coffee company finally has a brick-and-mortar cafe after hosting pop-ups for a few years, and it’s becoming a quick favorite among West Siders. Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, the space alone is worth visiting for its plush chairs, cozy decor, and lemonade.
Esta Loca in the Loop
Whether you’re seeing a show at the Nederlander Theatre or shopping on State Street, stop by this new spot for Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. I don’t know about you, but I’m not one to miss a rooftop brunch …
Lawrence Fish Market in Bridgeport
South Siders don’t have to travel to Albany Park to visit the seafood wholesaler. The second location features its signature sushi and is adding ramen to the menu.
Anticipated Openings
Sotto in the Loop
An Italian bar is set to open in the basement of the Italian Village restaurant complex in early December. It’s a new concept from the family-owned business.
Cafe Yaya in Lincoln Park
The team behind Galit will soon open an all-day cafe right next to the award-winning restaurant. In addition to pastries, dinner will feature French, Jewish, Southern, Middle Eastern, and Midwestern flavors.
What To Do
Thursday, Nov. 21
- Santa Baby Bar opens 🎅 Wrigleyville | 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. | $5+ cover
- Kids Turkey Trot 🦃 South Chicago | 4:30–7:30 p.m. | Free
- Cuffing Season ❣️ Andersonville | 7–8:30 p.m. | $5
- “Wicked” Drag Paint & Sip 💚 Logan Square | 7–9:30 p.m. | $10+
- Grown Folks Stories 💬 Hyde Park | 7–9 p.m. | $10+
- Ina Garten 🧑🍳 The Loop | 7:30 p.m. | $154
- Booked! A Standup Comedy Show 😆 Pilsen | 7:30–10 p.m. | $5
Friday, Nov. 22
- Senior Luncheon 🍽️ Dunning | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | $5
- Christkindlmarket opens ☕ The Loop, Aurora | 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Varies
- Millennium Park Holiday Market opens 🛍️ Millennium Park | Noon to 8 p.m. | Free
- Holiday Magic ✨ Brookfield Zoo | 3–9 p.m. | $21+
- City of Chicago Tree Lighting 🎄Millennium Park | 6 p.m. | Free
- Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer 🍺 Credit Union 1 Arena | 6–10 p.m. | $85
- Boxing Fundraiser 🥊 Little Village | 6:30 p.m. | $15+
- Jelani Aryeh 🎶 Avondale | 9 p.m. | $20
After we shared an episode on where to find fresh food in Chicago, reader Hannah H. recommended checking out Austin Harvest, a produce market started by local high schoolers.
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