There are so many rules that people don’t explicitly talk about when supervising undergraduate students.

Every opportunity I had to plan a mixer or do a lunch with staff on campus, I would. Whether people showed up or didn’t was out of my control. Graduating two years later, I came out with some pretty solid friendships. *Shoutout to you, you know who you are.* The road to it was thanks to Bumble BFF.

To give you a glimpse of what Bumble BFF wouldn’t give it justice. Bumble as an application has three tiers- dating, for business, and making friends. I used it for two of the three, but that’s a story for another day! I actually wrote about my friend dating experience too, if you want to check that out.

I did all sorts of things with my new friends.

Cubs Game

Like always, a sporting event is always a good event to partake in. You’re not always sitting still and you’re pretty much either cheering or eating when you’re at your seats. It’s actually pretty fun trying to figure out who is the sports person, who is the one that you’ll find at the concession stands, and who will just chat the whole game. Sporting events are always the move!!!

Celebrating Holidays, like Cinco de Drinko

Doing something for holidays is always a great time. We got together to celebrate and just get to know everyone that came. It’s the hosting random people that may get to you… but if one friend is willing to do it, go for it! In this situation, I’d rather be the attendee. I love that we shared Cinco de Mayo, decorated, and dressed up accordingly. It was so much fun to just relax and unwind.

Kayaking in Espenscheid Forest Preserve

WHAT A DAY! We had to reserve our spot a few weeks in advance because we also had to pay to go. The idea of planning a date that fit everyone’s schedule, collecting monies to keep everyone accountable, and planning who would be carpooling… you’d think would be a breeze. Gratefully, our friend Katie did all the leg work. Getting girls from the city and the suburbs was a mission, but possible!

The forest preserve as a whole was beautiful. You had a choice of one or two seater for the kayaks. Dogs were invited as well, as long as they were trained! I would plan for a whole day because it was a few hours just one way. You basically park your car in the lot, then you’re taken by a van to the start of the kayaks, and you end where your car is. We brought tons of snacks and water to stay hydrated.

Yoga in 360 Observatory Deck

Exercising and friends means that we can’t take life seriously. Yoga was a ton of stretching and more for the experience because we got to do it with an AMAZING VIEW!! I’d totally go again but just for the observatory deck. I think it’s also cheaper if you enter with your yoga class than just buying a ticket all together. You’re welcome!

Strawberry picking in Johnson’s Farm Produce, or really just random photoshoots

We actually went for a strawberry picking session, but the weather wasn’t in our favor. We still made the best of it and had a mini photoshoot. *Shoutout to Anthony for being a trooper and taking all these photos.*

Matching Sets for in-house photoshoots

I think it was mostly the peer pressure that did it. One person buys the stuff, knows our sizes, and we just pay them back. We matched for a few different occasions, so now we have no excuse but to be twins/quadruplets for fun!

Harry Potter pop-up

I’ve been wanting to go to a pop up forever and we finally made it happen! Everything you need to know about Harry Potter was used as decoration for the whole bar. It was actually pretty neat. They also had a trivia game that everyone could take part in, so my boyfriend did his thing. I thought I knew Harry Potter……….. back to the drawing board I go.

It’s a different ball game *pun intended* when it comes to making plans and following through. The idea is that you show up and try to get out of your comfort zone. I promise, IT’S WORTH IT!

The post Making Friends as an Adult is Hard, Bumble BFF Makes it Easy appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

Covid hit.

My dreams were shattered all together for a chance at living in Chicago. *cue me being exaggerated*

So I decided to make the most out of the summers I did have to explore. There’s honestly so much to do and I feel like we never really have much time. Straight out of graduation, I traveled a little and got a big girl job soon after. I tried my best to make it the best summer ever, especially because places were finally starting to open up little by little.

I set aside a few places I loved exploring and making memories at to help you plan out either a weekend with friends or just a way to always have something to do when you all hang out.

Are you ready!?

Baseball Game: Cubs Edition

I probably went to like four games in a span of two weeks. *NO RAGRETS!* Each time I went was with different friends, so guess who got those large wine jars. This girl! Mostly because I wanted the jar, but it was a bit pricey. For the many games I went to during covid times, I couldn’t get the Chicago style dog. So I’ll definitely be back next season!!!

Let’s Mini Golf

Wilderness Falls

I went with some friends to the batting cages, but didn’t realize they also had a mini golf course. It went through a waterfall looking course and it was so cute to go through. It reminded me of the water roller coaster in Disney that you go through a cave to get to the other side. Maybe my excitement just hits different, but it was definitely a fun experience!

Putt Putt

This location has indoor mini golf routes and a bar. They mentioned we had to split our group because it would be more enjoyable with about 3-4 at a time to compete and just to move efficiently. They give you little cards to keep score and have somewhere to place your drinks around the whole route. The place had a neon sign and a photo opp spot to do your thing! We also had the opportunity to win a free drink if you mini golfed your golf ball into their winner section. Definitely something I’d like to do again in the city.

Game Night

Galloping Ghost Arcade

The most insane amount of arcade games I’ve ever seen in my life!!!!!! There are arcade games like in a maze in this place. We tried cleaning each that we touched because I’m a major germaphobe when it comes to these things, but it was definitely an experience for a good few hours of entertainment. I kid you not, there were hundreds of machines to play on for just an entrance fee.

Bowlero

Bowling night is worth doing with friends! They also have a room next to the bar to just enjoy, play yard games, and eat if you didn’t want to bowl. It was nice to chat with friends and catch up. They also have this giant beer tube to drink from, so we probably ordered about two for everyone to have. I freaking love bowling though. Need to go back for that!!

Explore the Outdoors

Green house

Before entering the ferris wheel part of the touristy spot, there’s a huge green house. It’s so beautiful to look at, enjoy, and just sit around admiring the green world. It’s also a passage way to get to the outside view. I love sitting here because it’s refreshing to just listen to nature, but also people watch if you really wanted to.

Navy Pier

One of the few touristy spots I can come to over and over again and never get tired. It has a whole bunch of restaurants, as well as rooftop views, and you can probably walk mindlessly to whatever you were interested in doing. They also have a few parking garages if you wanted to take advantage of walking in the area. Everything’s pretty much walkable in Chicago, so worth the drive or even train ride, if you prefer public transportation.

Buckingham Fountain

While it’s only lit in the summer, I FINALLY saw it!!! The water rushes up and comes down with a rainbow when the sun hits it. Feels like a fairytale moment, so it was magical. It turns on for just a few months of the year. I would take advantage of it! I loved just strolling through and enjoying the view from Lake Michigan.

Chicago’s Skyline

The Chicago skyline hits a little different every time we go. I honestly try to go as much as I can because I love the outdoors and I’m a sucker for a good view. There’s grassy area to sit by and large steps to distance yourself from the person next to you. What sucks is the minimal street parking. Another option is to park with Shedd Aquarium’s garage, but that can get pricey if you’re not staying in the area long.

As my all time favorite view and potentially *second* favorite skyline, this is it!

The Green River

I know what you’re going to say… the green river only happens in March and that’s not summer, BUT hear me out. This year -2022- felt like this week was summer or like a pre summer with beautiful weather. I FINALLY got to see the green river since I started living here and it felt GOOD. The green river is so beautiful and the experience is even better because I got to do it with friends.

I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to explore Chicago throughout the time that I’ve lived here. It’s been such a fun time to be able to go out with family and friends in these times. We definitely made it possible to still enjoy the little moments. I hope you get to enjoy them too!

The post Taking Summers in Chicago to New Heights appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

I love the fact that you can simply walk around the different loops to experience all kinds of cultures. It’s exciting to me how I also get to meet people in every corner ready to take on the next adventure. Let’s get to it!

1. Bandit

I hadn’t gone out to a bar in what felt like forever, Bandit really impressed me with their spacing and their social distancing rules in place. Their happy hour had a lot of options as well. I loved my smokey drink!

2. Sutherlands

It was a margarita kind of night, so my friend thought this place would be it. It did not disappoint! It was a relatively small bar, but the food was great for our night! Everything we needed for a chill scene.

3. Formento’s (Italian)

Having dinner here for our girl’s night was so much fun. It was a little on the fancy side, which I truly appreciate because I was able to dress up a little and have fun with it. The waiter had amazing recommendations- so I just explored his options. SO GOOD!

4. Beatrix

I had been wanting to go to this market in the Fulton Market area because the vibe was exactly what I needed. It was half market, half restaurant. The market reminded me more of a coffee shop. If you’re looking for either a place to do work or hang out with friends, this market is perfect!

5. PB&J: pizza, beer, and jukebox

Located in the west loop of Chicago, this restaurant was created by two brothers with a dream. I will fully support this dream because the drinks were GREAT, and the music was ON POINT! I missed these kinds of nights– to just hang out with friends, have a good time, and enjoy the music at a place.

6. Burton Place

Very chill bar to pass the time, watch sports, hang out with friends and enjoy the outdoors. It was a cute on-the-go place in the city to enjoy! The staff was very nice too!

7. Cabra

It felt like an outdoorsy-indoor spot in the city. We went for brunch with some friends and ordered shareable dishes. Everyone got to try a bit of everything; from chips and their incredible dip to pita and hummus to steak and eggs. All had an exquisite taste.

8. Harry Carrey’s Tavern

This is one of those places our family goes to every time they’re in town. It’s a staple in Navy Pier at Chicago. It has so much history behind it with the celebrities that have shared a meal or drink here. They have all their memorabilia for everyone to see and enjoy. It’s like a museum with a restaurant in one. And their burgers are SO good!

9. The Pasta Bowl

This place had so many delicious options to choose from, but once I saw the rainbow pasta in the kids menu, I just HAD to HAVE it!!! Who doesn’t want rainbow pasta?! I’m actually glad the waiter let me have it because I’m obviously not 12 years and younger, but I had so much fun with it.

All they really did was add food coloring and butter to the angel hair, but it was normal tasting too. Thank God my mouth didn’t change colors! That would’ve been rough.

10. Azul Mariscos

My friends and I had made a reservation weeks before to come to Azul. It’s a spot that just opened this summer 2021 in Chicago and known for their seafood. A little overpriced for our taste, but the tequila tree was pretty fun. It’s all shareable, but be ready for a hefty bill. Other than that, we were able to take photos by the water and thoroughly enjoy our friend’s company.

11. Paradise Park

We went out with friends in the city and it was such a cute spot. It was actually a pretty large building and there was so much space to work with. The local beers were a hit, as well as the nachos and pizza.

12. Barcocina

Went to this cutie spot in the winter and they had igloos!!! You actually have to reserve them, so I wish I knew that before going. We sat inside and had a girls night out. It was extremely cozy and we loved our quesadillas. The beverages were a tad strong, but absolutely loved the vibe!

13. K Fire BBQ

Korean bbq’s honestly have to be one of my favorite cuisines. I love that someone can mix and match so any foodies in one bowl. I usually prefer dumplings steamed, but these were surprisingly very tasty. Grateful the bowls were filling as well.

14. Russian Tea Time

My friend, Khadeil, introduced me to this spot and it was a MUST GO. I had actually been wanting to go to a place with tea and this just called to us. It was a nice change and escape from the normal restaurant feel. They served the tea quite nicely, the appetizers, and the variety of pastries. We had the peach tea and so many refills. Match made in heaven for sure!

15. Jojo’s Shake Bar

If anyone has a sweet tooth, it’s me! This girl! I feel like I can’t get away from sweets. I’ve also always wanted to come to this place and I finally had the opportunity to. My friends just love to jump on adventures with me, especially for a sweet spot. I thought this spot was a pop up, but I think it’s here to stay for sure. They just opened a location in Naperville as well!

I feel like each restaurant hits in a different way. Each offer exquisite foods and I loved being able to experience them all. I’ll definitely be adding to the list as I go too!

Are there any you recommend I go?

Also, all our covid friendly; meaning you wear a mask, there’s hand sanitizer, they check your temperature, you need reservations, etc. Most of my reservations were made on OpenTable (this is not an advertisement for them).

The post The City of Chicago and its Hot Spots appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

1. Flight Tasting Room & Bottle Shoppe in Yorkville

They availability to try different beers with whatever your taste buds were feeling. It’s actually a pretty cool concept for a brewery. The staff was extremely knowledgeable with their beers and what they offered. I chose the flight to try a variety of their favorites. Definitely a must do kind of place!

2. Burnt Barrel Social in Yorkville

While it was a little more crowded than I hoped, the food was very comforting. I had a Chicago-style hot dog for the first time, SO GOOD! It was a cozy place, so I’d definitely want to come again.

3. Fat Rosie’s (Mexican) in Lincolnshire

This place is talked about so many people by the school I work at, so I just had to go. I went to the location closer to home and it did not disappoint. It was all the Mexican-vibes I needed– all colorful, proud, and the margarita flavors were amazing to try! I absolutely loved the experience and the culture-based food items.

4. Bulldog in Bolingbrook

Happy hour is set on Wednesdays!!! All drinks are either $4 or $5, so you know you can’t just buy one. We also had some brownie ice cream dessert and it was all solved all my chocolate cravings for sure!!

5. Village Tavern and Grill in Carol Stream

SO. MUCH. FOOD! They also say they have the best honey mustard in the midwest. So far I can attest! I loved the environment too. It felt like a sports grill type of location mixed with an American comfort foods kind of place. My friends and I loved hanging out here!

6. Emerson’s Ale House in Mount Prospect

I’ve been here a few times and absolutely love the different foodie items I get to have each time. They had a special for #TacoTuesday with margaritas and tacos, and a few other sides. The drinks and tacos were also very photogenic. #PhoneEatsFirst!!

7. Potter’s Place in Naperville

I had been wanting to visit for SO long!! Potter’s is one of the most popular bars in the Downtown Naperville area because of the vibe and options for indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a Mexican cuisine type of place and the decor just hits all the Hispanic spots in me. We also just had to get margaritas for happy hour!

8. Evviva Bar and Eatery in Lisle

With live music, great pasta, and an amazing artichoke and spinach dip– this place did the trick for a birthday night! It’s a little wild of a place with lots of people, but the staff is very attentive. We loved our experience and just had to go back for dinner.

9. Portillo’s in Schaumburg

I visited with family and now, every time they come to visit, we have to have Portillo’s. It’s a chain only in the Illinois area and actually originated close by! I talk about another location in this post if you want more information. Each restaurant is decorated differently, so it makes each location unique. Go with your tummy hungry, because you won’t regret it! Also get the chocolate cake milkshake!!! It’s probably a sugar rush waiting to happen, but also easy to share.

10. City Works Brewery in Schaumburg

My boyfriend surprised me with all my friends when I got my first big girl job to hang out here. It feels like a homie vibe, but also similar to a sports bar. It gives a mix of high top table setting with just a chill spot. I loved coming here and of course, almost every brewery I go to, I have a flight. I love to try new beers, especially local beers, because you never know which one you may fall in love with next. It was definitely a good time!

11. Tacos el Norte in Lake Bluff

In the mood for some good Mexican cuisine for date night? This is the place for you! They serve authentic Mexican foods and bring back the decor to match all the cultures taste. I absolutely love the festivity! We love coming to eat and chat here. They also serve large portions. So be ready to munch!

12. Bowlero in Buffalo Grove

Boys night gone wrong. The girlfriends invited themselves too!!! We spent the night in the greater room with cornhole and table tennis. We also always order the large ounce beer that serves plenty of us. I think it’s about 6-8 8 oz cups. It’s SO worth it! The place is also a cute spot for appetizers or something to just hang out.

They also have a whole arcade section to enjoy and win prizes. And of course, bowling lanes to bowl together.

13. Gators Wing Shack in Palatine

Someone recommended this place because of their extensive list of sauces. My boyfriend literally tried them all! None were spicy enough for him, so we’re glad we also ordered the wings. It was a fun taste test nonetheless. The beer and food were amazing!

14. Old Munich Tavern in Wheeling

I went for happy hour with some friends and it honestly felt so cozy and cute. It had that sports bar feel when you first entered, but there was an area to sit on the tables upstairs by the casino machines, so we sat there. They also have the BEST pretzel bites with cheese. SO good!

15. Sushi Nova in Orland Park

Picking up food here has basically become part of my job. We grab food from Sushi Nova at least twice a month because their lunch specials are amazing, but also their food. Based on how much you order, they also offer free appetizers. More food is more happiness and more happy customers. We’ll definitely be going back more often; especially because it’s only a few minute drive.

16. Boston Market in Wheeling

My boyfriend brought us here for our anniversary because I’ve had this craving for crab and lobster lately that I’m enjoying! It had a market feel before going into the restaurant, so we definitely got the whole experience. They chose the lobster for us and presented it on our pasta. It was an amazing experience as a whole! The food was incredible and the price was worth it.

17. Tuscany in Wheeling

It’s one of those places that truly depicts what the country’s style feels like. Tuscany is an Italian restaurant and it had the 100% feel of the culture in the restaurant. We were also feeling a little fancy, so it was pretty fun that my friend and I got to experience a taste of Italy in Illinois. The wine recommendations were incredible- I think we got like two bottles. The food was served in larger portions than I expected, so definitely took leftovers home. I would come again!

18. First Watch in Kildeer

I first heard about this restaurant when I went to Orlando, Florida. Their bread is SOO good. The hype is real and it’s also very expensive for their loaf. A whole $7, but I wanted it. This brunch spot is a must do for sure. Very family oriented, cozy, and the food is so yummy.

19. Burger 21 in Orland Park

I wanted a burger place with that diner feel and this one hit the spot! The colors, decor, how everything is set up- gave me the vibe I was looking for. They also have a variety of sauces to choose from, so that was pretty neat. And you weren’t limited to your choices.

20. Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove

Live music, front row seats, a flight of beer, and friends = priceless! The outdoor aspect to this brewery was everything you needed on a night out. It definitely brings out the best in you and the staff was so kind. So every time I want to select a flight a beer, I just let the waiter/waitress choose. I never know which are local and exquisite to my taste. Disclaimer: I actually love all foods/drinks, so my recommendations might vary from place to place.

21. Jeni’s Ice Cream in Oak Brook

I actually thought Jeni’s Ice Cream was a local spot in Ohio, until I found one in Illinois. I guess they’re in multiple places across the nation. It’s such a cute, quaint ice cream shop in each state though. They have fun limited edition flavors, as well as their usual flavors. My go to is always cookies n cream, but they also let you mix them if you want more flavors in one.

22. Stonewood Ale House in Schaumburg

I went for a girls night out to enjoy a grab and go kind of meal with drinks. We had some wine and quesadillas, and honestly talked the night away. It was a cute spot to hang out at, especially because I’m a sucker for little lights in bars. We did indoor seating, so at least we weren’t freezing outside. I’m sure in the summer, this is also a go to spot. I’d definitely love to come again!

23. Lou Malnati’s in Tinley Park

EVERYONE has their preference of who has the best deep dish pizza in Illinois… I LOVE Lou Malnati’s. The way I think of it is that Lou Malnati’s serves the deep dish with more cheese and Giordano’s is more sauce. There are also other locations with deep dish, but these are the main ones. I may also be bias because I have one across the street from work; but all in all, Lou Malnati’s wins!

I also love how much character each restaurant has with their own decor and design, both inside and outside. This one had more of an industrial feel to the place.

24. Fat Rosie’s in Lincolnshire

I absolutely love going to this Illinois chain. It’s a whole Mexican vibe and I’m here for it!!! I feel like every time I go, I try to sit somewhere different to see all sides of the restaurant and enjoy it to the fullest.

25. Chicago Bagel and Bialy in Wheeling

My boyfriend and I came for brunch, and it was a bit of an interesting experience. I was in the mood for a bagel, and usually ask the person who works there for their opinion in what’s good with the bagel. She gave me a pizza bagel with ham and cheese… not the best option for me. I loved the simplicity of their coffee system though. There’s definitely other options of food though!

26. Tapville in Naperville, Illinois

I actually started coming here when it was Red Arrow Taproom, then it rebranded to Tapville. They have the first concept of this in all of Illinois. Basically, you can pour your own beers with the selection they have, and the price is based on the ounces you choose for your glass. You can choose from doing a flight of beer or just one large glass, but the concept is so much fun!

27. Meze Meditteraneo in Schaumburg

Tasting greek foods has to be one of my favorite things to do. Illinois truly has lots of authentic greek spots and ready to serve a large group. I went with my family and of course, reserved a large seating area, but went with an open mind towards the foods they have. It’s amazing how similar meditteranean food is to Lebanese food. It took me back to my family dinners in Miami!

Also, all our covid friendly; meaning you wear a mask, there’s hand sanitizer, they check your temperature, you need reservations, etc. Most of my reservations were made on OpenTable (this is not an advertisement for them).

The post My Top 27 Restaurants in the Greater Chicagoland Area appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

While life may take twist and turns in all kinds, we learn to truly appreciate what we have and how much we can explore the local scene while living in a whole other state. I thought, since I’m a huge foodie, I wanted to try diverse cuisines in Illinois. This state offers foods from so many different countries and I’m so excited to share my experiences with you. Here’s a toast to Eating Around the World in Illinois!

Immerse yourself with the Latinx Community

• Restaurant: Mis Moles
• Country of Origin: Mexico
• Location in Illinois: Chicago

A hidden gem in the Northside of Chicago, Mis Moles is a fun Mexican restaurant. We had homemade Mexican tamales, enchiladas, and churros with chocolate. YUM! They actually reached out to me to collaborate. I was so excited, especially because I got to make a date night out of it.

• Restaurant: Yerbabuena
• Country of Origin: Mexico
• Location in Illinois: Lisle

We started with frozen guava margaritas and they were amazing! I also wanted to try the chicken tostones and the queso fundido. This Mexican cuisine was what we needed for a great dinner spot!

Give me some European Flavor

• Restaurant: Bavarian Lodge
• Country of Origin: Germany
• Location in Illinois: Lisle

My friend and I visited the first day it opened from being closed in the pandemic and we truly got lucky! This german-style location and food filled us with joy. We started with pretzels, had our beer of choice, sausages, potato foods, red cabbage and a must-have homemade apple strudel! It was everything to make our tummies happy!

• Restaurant: Bar Siena
• Country of Origin: Italy
• Location in Illinois: Chicago

A new friend and I ate outside at Bar Siena and it was delicious! We had a hot cocoa ball with a shot of Baileys as our warm drink. I had gnocchi, fun fact: my all-time favorite type of pasta, and my friend had the lasagna. This Italian location was a hit and such a cute date spot too.

• Restaurant: Quigley’s Irish Pub
• Country of Origin: Ireland
• Location in Illinois: Naperville

After a long day, Quigley’s Irish Pub was exactly what was needed. Want to know the best part? If you order a Guinness, you get to keep the glass it comes with. Guess who’s coming again for a second one?! This girl!

• Restaurant: Mesón Sabika
• Country of Origin: Spain
• Location in Illinois: Naperville

When you walk into this restaurant, it looks exactly like a Spaniard restaurant. From the crown molding to the renaissance-style decor to all the tapas you can order, it was everything I needed! As I reminisced through the menu, I was SO excited to experience Spain in America. It sounds cliché, but this is the cuisine that I had for almost a whole summer while I studied abroad there. I’ll definitely be visiting again!!!

• Restaurant: Geja’s Cafe
• Country of Origin: Switzerland
• Location in Illinois: Chicago

In 2015, Geja’s Cafe was named as America’s Most Romantic Restaurant. Since 1965, the restaurant has contributed to it’s atmosphere with their unique candle-lit dining room feeling like a wine cellar. The lighting was dim and hard to grasp good photos, but the three-course meal was spectacular! We each had or shared a salad, a cheese board, a cook-your-own meats or fish combination, and a charcuterie board of desserts to dip in their famous fondue. Definitely one of my favorite date night spots in Chicago if you’re willing to splurge a little.

• Restaurant: Aba
• Country of Origin: Greece
• Location in Illinois: Chicago

I had been wanting to visit this restaurant for a while, so I did a double whammy and participated with Choose Chicago (an event in Chicago that creates deals for participating restaurants for a span of a few weeks). The ambiance was beautiful in Aba and the food was great quality! It did not disappoint!!

• Restaurant: Geja’s Cafe
• Country of Origin: Switzerland
• Location in Illinois: Chicago

Date night hit the spot with all the European vibes. The lighting for pictures was not my favorite, but it was set to be an intimate setting. There was a melting pot for cheese that we could dip our food into. We had to cook it ourselves with a certain time frame the waiters gave us and keep an eye out for it! It all felt like a 3-course meal, and of course, the dessert was my favorite part!! They offered a melting chocolate pot for us to dip our snacks into!! SOOO good!!!

• Restaurant: Mon Ami Gabi
• Country of Origin: France
• Location in Illinois: Oakbrook

I actually didn’t know that this restaurant was a chain around the states. We found the same restaurant when we went to Las Vegas, and it does not disappoint anywhere. I love that I can have a piece of France through here- the food, the vibe of the environment, how the food is presented, all things French. Everything reminded me of the last time I visited, and I’m just itching to go back.

A Taste of Asian cuisine

• Restaurant: Hanabi
• Country of Origin: Japan
• Location in Illinois: Buffalo Grove

Last year, Rachel and I celebrated Galentine’s in a fun way. So of course this year, we wanted to explore other ways to have our girls night. We made this a sushi kind of night and ordered from a local spot. Let the good times roll!!!

• Restaurant: MingHin Cuisine
• Country of Origin: China
• Location in Illinois: Naperville

I went to eat with one of my close friends in Naperville to this cuisine. I was actually really excited because I hadn’t had traditional Chinese food served in a while. We went for happy hour and got half off on the wine bottles! We also ordered dumplings (or pot stickers), egg rolls, orange chicken and sesame chicken with broccoli and a side of steamed rice. Some tips I learned that day: they offer hot or cold tea before you order and steamed rice is actually white rice.

• Restaurant: Jin28
• Country of Origin: Pan-Asian
• Location in Illinois: Naperville

My ultimate go-to in any Asian restaurant are their dumplings/gyoza/potstickers!!! Usually I prefer them grilled, but these had a little bit of crunch to them. If you knew me at all, you know that my all-time guilty pleasure is sushi. What better way to eat it than an ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT-BUFFET style?! I can’t even remember how many sushi rolls we ordered, but my friends and I definitely left with our tummies in a good place. TIP: If you’re going to eat the buffet aspect of their menu, you can only mix and match with your friends if you’re all eating the same style. And to be the most prepared, come with a hungry stomach!

• Restaurant: Choong Man Chicken
• Country of Origin: Korea
• Location in Illinois: Aurora

This quaint Korean chicken place is located in a shopping center with a few different restaurants that surround it. It’s honestly the first time I’ve tried Korean chicken and it was extremely good! It even had a little kick to it that I wasn’t anticipating, but the white radish complimented the meal SO well!!! I definitely need more of it in my life.

• Restaurant: Green Basil
• Country of Origin: Vietnam
• Location in Illinois: Naperville

The food in this cozy spot did not disappoint! It was definitely filling, so come in with an empty stomach. The food is so true to their culture and I absolutely love how I was able to experience a hole in the wall close to school. Downtown Naperville is where its at!

I hope you enjoyed Eating Around the World in Illinois as much as I did! This was truly an adventure for the books. I had so much fun hanging out with new friends, letting my phone eat first, munching on the food, and writing about it, of course!

Do you want to join me on my next adventure?! Let’s connect!

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1. Peet’s Coffee in Downer’s Grove

This has to be one of my favorite shops because it’s similar to a drive-thru but more so just walking through. The outdoor seating was everything I needed, especially because I was able to just sit, talk, and look around at people walking and hear the birds chirping. What a beautiful day!

2. Dollop Coffee Co in Chicago

I had been wanting to come here for so long! Even though it was a quick pit stop, it was very Pinterest-worthy. The coffee was very much needed and delicious!

3. Cafe Umbria in Chicago

This coffee shop was recommended by my supervisor and it did not disappoint! I had taken the train (pre-covid) by myself for the first time to Chicago from the suburbs, and the workers were so welcoming! I loved that it is connected to a hotel, so there are tables in the shop and adjacent to it. I had an interview right after, so the environment was easy to just take notes and look around.

4. Sweetwaters in Naperville

This coffee and tea shop opened in March of 2021 and it does not disappoint. I went with a few friends to study and just chat. I loved the environment as a whole, mostly because of the natural light shining through the front door. I love a good open area to sit by. I also finally tried the matcha flavored coffee and it was actually pretty tasty!

5. Sparrow Coffee in Naperville

The vibe was so cute. I want to go study there all the time, but then I’d definitely go broke because the coffee was too good to be true. It was a very sustainable, plant mom scenerio. There were cute plants around the desk areas and enough plugs in the tables to sit wherever. I LOVED everything about it— AND it’s a walk from campus!

6. Endiro Coffee in Aurora

Visited this coffee shop for the Sticky Bun Iced Latte and avocado toast. The bacon was AMAZING! It’s my newfound obsession if you can’t already tell. The coffee shop was by the river in Downtown Aurora, so the sites were worth it too! The shop itself was very vibrant, which I absolutely loved.

7. Tredwell Coffee in Aurora

If you want another coffee shop by the river in Downtown, Aurora, this is it! They have an indoor and outdoor area to sit and sip. I had the white mocha iced coffee and it definitely satisfied my tummy!

8. Caffe Di Moda in Lisle

This vibe reminded me of the coffee shops back home. It was a very classy, but trendy shop. They had cute plants in the window sill and the shadows just hit the foodie in the right spots. I had the new iced oreo latte and a ham and cheese croissant. It definitely filled me up!

9. Phil’s Coffee in Chicago

One of the cutest shops in Chicago! I went with the girls after yoga and it was definitely a much needed time. We tried the mojito coffee… MUST TRY!

10. Grounds Coffee Bar in Crystal Lake

It was more of a spontaneous spot. My boyfriend and I happened to come across the local coffee shop and it was very sustainable friendly.

11. Cupitol Coffee in Evanston

Around the corner of my job is this cute coffee shop. I love the fact that there’s local businesses owners around this area to truly explore and make your dining reservations the best yet. We have absolutely taken advantage of the fact that it’s right nearby too.

12. Coffeessions in Wheeling

Snuck in some time in between my day to work a little at a coffee shop. It was a snowy day, so it was nice to have a warm meal and coffee. It reminded me of either a hustle and bustle kind of restaurant or just a grab and go for your dish. The avocado toast was a little odd. It was literally toast with avocado and minimal toppings.

13. The Original Long Grove Coffee Co in Long Grove

In this area, they have a cute town with different local businesses. One of them is the coffee shop! I came with a friend to just chat about all things planning and sat by the sun, hoping for some heat.

14. Pepper Park Coffee in Barrington

Went to grab breakfast after the gym and I was so excited to come here. I love the breakfast options and the cold brew to top it all off!

15. Pâtisserie Coralie in Evanston

THE BEST COFFEE EVER! Maybe it was the oat milk, but it wasn’t too sweet and it wasn’t too bitter. I absolutely loved my iced caramel cold brew from here. As a French bakery, the macarons really made the cut too!

16. Newport Coffee House in Evanston

Walked to grab coffee around the corner from my building. The place was truly aesthetically pleasing and had lots of seating, I wish I could have stayed longer, but I had to get back to work! There was even a little shop prior to heading to the baristas, who were ready to make some delicious coffee. I also got a Nutella filled chocolate chip cookie…SO YUM!

17. Colectivo Coffee in Evanston

I walked to this place from work and it probably took a few minutes to arrive. It was the perfect afternoon to grab a good cup of joe because besides needing a change of scenery for a little, it was such a beautiful day out. It also hit the spot because I needed to wake up. The extra shots of espresso made all the difference.

18. New Wave Coffee in Chicago

The fact that they have a house-made flavor is all I need to know. You have to try their vanilla!!! I added it to my iced coffee and it was impeccable. The flavor was so smooth and great. They also have lots of sitting space in case you needed to work or study. And side note: they sell local art to support artists in the area.

19. La Boulangerie & Co Logan in Chicago

This spot has an indoor and an outdoor space, both very pinterest-y. There’s lots that makes the shop different; bakery-like when you enter, but also reminds you of the European culture once you’re inside. I’ll be back! Especially for the macarons!!!

20. Bagel Art Cafe in Evanston

I went to pick up bagels for an event and left with a great homemade cold brew. It was honestly amazing to say the least. I love when the baristas get creative with their choice of coffee making, so it’s always a pleasure trying new recipes, in a sense. I will definitely be back!

21. Buttermilk cafe in Vernon Hills

A complete staple in Illinois and SO good. I love a good breakfast spot, especially if the aesthetic gives me Pinterest vibes. The staff was short-staffed but honestly made it work. I love the seasonal coffee beverages and the honey biscuit!!!!! MUST HAVE! 

22. Pancake Cafe in Lincolnshire, Illinois

Stopped by a fun cafe to actually eat breakfast because Tyler was a bit parched. It felt very cozy and like if we were on vacation exploring new spots. The service was good too! I think I also just really liked the ambiance.

I have to say, coffee shops just hit the spot every time! The vibe can be different in all senses, but they all serve as a very homey purpose. I loved exploring and studying in coffee shops throughout Illinois. It truly brings the community together every time!

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