👀 THIS Chicago neighborhood ranked ‘coolest’

Is Avondale the Coolest Neighborhood ... in the World?

Not exactly. According to Time Out, it is the fifth-coolest neighborhood in the world, trailing areas in Tokyo, New York, Miami, and Austin. The ranking marks an improvement from 2022, when Avondale came in at No. 16. It’s a little hipster, a little Polish, a little Hispanic, and, even after all these years, still a little up-and-coming. [Time Out]

A Step-by-Step Guide For Making Friends in Chicago

It can be hard to make new friends as an adult in a big city. It’s even harder if you’re a transplant. On today’s podcast, our own resident transplant Simone Alicea shares a step-by-step guide to making friends in Chicago. Check out all the tips. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

An Alder Pushes For More Dogs at Restaurants

Who let the dogs … in? Ald. Timmy Knudsen (43rd), potentially! Right now, dogs are allowed at some restaurants with outdoor seating, but Knudsen’s new proposal would allow restaurants to choose whether to let dogs indoors. Right now, only service animals can go inside. [ABC 7]

• But wait … Do Chicagoans even want dogs out dining? [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Private Fences Around a Public Park in River North

A park at River Village North Townhomes must be publicly accessible 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., according to the city. But that hasn’t stopped the local homeowner association from putting up additional fencing of its own and “No Trespassing” signs. One neighbor says it makes the park feel closed off. [Block Club]

This season is full of cool restaurant openings … we’ve already tried a few! From an omakase speakeasy to a new Greek taverna, Chicago is bursting with new culinary flavors.

Midōsuji in the Loop

Midōsuji is as much an experience as it is a meal. Tucked away inside an old speakeasy space within the Chicago Athletic Club, Midōsuji is intimate, serving just two seatings of eight per night. The “nouvelle omakase” tasting menu featured 11 rotating courses for about $200 per person — beverage pairings will run ya extra, but you’re gonna want to try the tomato martini. The crab salad with miso egg yolk is another unique standout.

TNT Ramen in South Chicago

TNT Ramen is the South Chicago neighborhood’s first-ever ramen shop, serving up tonkatsu, chicken paitan, and vegetable ramen. Formerly, the Commercial Avenue space was home to TNT Mexican Restaurant. The owning family now plans to open a café next door, too.

Beef & Liberty in the Loop

Located inside the multi-floor Hawksmoor steakhouse, Beef & Liberty is a dimly lit cocktail bar with English noshes like Scotch eggs and Yorkshire pudding. Drawing inspiration from Soho bars, it’s more upscale than your typical pub — but just as cozy.

Van Leeuwen in Wicker Park

Van Leeuwen’s recent Chicago opening made news for two reasons: $1 scoops and a (strong) Malört flavor. While both of those specials were temporary, it’s still worth trying the velvety smooth treat that’s had East Coasters buzzing for years. The new shop is located right on Milwaukee, North, and Damen.

Ithaki Estiatorio in Greektown

We’ve covered Ithaki extensively here at City Cast Chicago because it’s a new Greek place in Greektown. That’s rare these days! However, don’t expect an old-school, family-style Greek feast at Ithaki. It’s a modern take on a taverna with a fancy cocktail menu. You can get flaming saganaki, though, and that’s what’s really important.

As a City Cast Chicago Neighbor, you get to submit Neighborhood Shoutouts! It’s just another perk that brings us all a li’l closer together. Become a member today.

This week, Neighbor Courtney W. is shouting out The Groove Chicago: “It’s a yoga studio in Avondale that centers women of color and is extremely community focused!”