Jeffy Mai

Some year, eh? We’ve been blessed with some absolute crackers of albums over the last 12 months. We’ve had sad girl anthem after sad girl anthem (boygenius, Mitski and Lana Del Rey in the same year?!), breakthrough pop stars (hello: Raye and Olivia Dean), as well as dancefloor-ready K-pop, killer soundtracks and emo kid comebacks. It’s been a stand-out year for new music, and while it’s never fun to have to choose your favourite, yes, we’ve gone and done it. We asked Time Out writers and editors from around the world to choose the one record they had on repeat over the last 12 months. Without further a do, here are 30 of our favourite albums of 2023. RECOMMENDED:The best movies of 2023 (so far)The best TV shows of 2023 you need to streamThe 50 best podcasts to listen to in 2023

Chicago winters can be a bit of a drag, to say the least, but the holidays offer a shimmering diversion from long nights and frosty weather. Starting in November, you'll find plenty of festive events and celebrations to put you in a holiday mood as temperatures start to drop, from glittering Christmas lights in Chicago and Christkindlmarket Chicago villages in Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville to sing-alongs at the Music Box and Millennium Park. You can even take a spin around the City of Chicago Christmas tree at ice skating rinks downtown and warm up afterwards with a hot cocktail at holiday pop-up bars scattered throughout the city, or plan a festive night of Christmas theater thanks to annual performances of shows like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. Whatever holiday you celebrate this time of year, you'll find plenty of ways to feel festive with our list of the best things to do during the holidays in Chicago.  RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Christmas in Chicago

The arrival of December sends the holiday season into full swing—prepare yourself for a jam-packed roster of glittering Christmas lights, festive holiday pop-ups and plenty of glühwein to be sipped at Christkindlmarket locations in both Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville. As the month draws to a close, bid adieu to 2023 at New Year's Eve events and parties happening at Chicago hotels, clubs and other hotspots, where you'll find Champagne towers and other special ways to welcome 2024 in style. Make the most of the final month of the year with our guide to the best events in Chicago this December.  RECOMMENDED: Events calendar for Chicago in 2023

Welcome to another weekend! 'Tis the season for festive Christmas lights and holiday pop-up bars. Ice skating rinks are also open for the season, and you can catch the premiere of classic wintertime ballet The Nutcracker. So ready to make the most of your time off? Check out the rest of the best things to do in Chicago this weekend. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Chicago right now

Looking for fun activities to do this week? You can get in the holiday spirit with twinkling Christmas lights and Christmas pop-up bars. A new Disney exhibit has also come to town, and favorites like Christkindlmarket and ZooLights are now open for the season. There’s even more on our list below, so scroll through the roundup of the best things to do in Chicago this week and start planning your calendar. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Chicago this weekend

Christmas shopping can be stressful if you’re searching the web for the best deals or braving the crowds at a big box store, but it’s much more fun if you go somewhere that really embraces the spirit of the season. Christmas in Chicago is a magical time filled with incredible holiday light displays and over-the-top pop-up bars—so it’s no surprise there are plenty of equally charming shopping destinations throughout the city, from festive seasonal markets to stores that go all-out with their decorating. Find something fun for everyone on your list by hitting up the best Christmas stores in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Your complete guide to Christmas in Chicago

Welcome to November in Chicago! You've got about two weeks of breathing room after Halloween before holiday events begin in earnest, from twinkling Christmas lights displays to the first days of Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville. And of course, don't forget about Thanksgiving in Chicago—we've got suggestions on where to eat at restaurants should you not feel like preparing a whole turkey this year. Hoping to avoid the holidays altogether? Take a spin on the Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon or huddle away from the wintry weather at Chicago museums as temperatures start to plummet. Say goodbye to fall in Chicago with the help of our list of the best things to do in Chicago this November.  RECOMMENDED: Events calendar for Chicago in 2023

Few sights jumpstart feelings of holiday cheer quite like sparkling Christmas lights—and lucky for us, the Chicago area has plenty of stunning options to choose from. Here in the city, take a stroll down Michigan Avenue or visit Lincoln Park Zoo's famed ZooLights installation, which is free on Mondays. You'll also find impressive lights downtown at the City of Chicago Christmas tree at Millennium Park, which is lit during an annual ceremony that's happening November 17 this year. Once you've had your fill of lights, head over to Christkindlmarket and warm up with spiced glühwein and German-inspired fare. So discover some of the best things to do during Christmas in Chicago with our guide to the area's most beautiful holiday lights. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Christmas in Chicago

When the craving for Indian cuisine hits, there are countless spots to order soulful curries, flaky paratha and a bevy of vegetarian-friendly dishes. Devon Avenue has long been one of the best stretches in the city for South Asian cooking—home to restaurants that have existed for ages—but great options can be found elsewhere as well. Modern newcomers, like Indienne and Thattu, are putting fresh spins on classic recipes while old favorites continue to churn out delicious and dependable dishes. And there’s something for every budget, from fine dining tasting menus to terrific cheap eats at Ghareeb Nawaz. The food also holds up well during transport, making the following places excellent for delivery or carryout. So check out our guide to the best Indian restaurants in Chicago for your fill of veggie-stuffed momos, enormous dosas and more. RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best Chicago restaurants

Baby, it's cold outside! When you're not shopping at Christkindlmarket or taking a spin on local ice skating rinks, warm up this holiday season with the help of some festive live music. Whether you're hoping to test your caroling skills with a sing-along to Handel’s Messiah, catch Mariah Carey belting "All I Want For Christmas Is You" or watch the Joffrey Ballet's classic production of The Nutcracker, you'll find plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas in Chicago thanks to these holiday concerts spanning a wide variety of musical genres.  RECOMMENDED: Check out even more things to do for Christmas in Chicago

‘Tis the season to be jolly and there’s no better way to do that than by visiting a festive pop-up. Restaurants and bars across the city are getting in the holiday spirit and transforming their spaces into winter wonderlands that feature themed events, cheery ornaments and other over-the-top spectacles. You’ll find boozy concoctions—from eggnog espresso martinis to mulled wine—as well as plenty of photo ops. Some of the following spots are also among the city’s best bars. So get ready to have a merry Christmas with gorgeous light displays and the best holiday pop-up bars in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do during the holidays in Chicago

It’s that time again. Every year, we ask thousands of city-dwellers to tell us the coolest spots in their cities. What are the places locals love and visitors flock to? Where are the exciting new openings across food, drink and culture? Where are people going out, hanging out and having fun? For the sixth year running, the results are in. Over 12,000 people had their say in this year’s shortlist, naming the neighbourhoods in their hometowns where everyone wants to be right now. Then, we narrowed down the selection with the insight and expertise of city editors and local experts who know their cities better than anyone else. To create and rank the final list, we considered factors including community and social ventures, access to open and green space, and thriving street life. In 2023, our neighbourhoods are more global than ever before. The rise and rise in post-pandemic digital nomadism has led to an explosion of brand-new community spaces, multi-purpose culture centres and more cafés than we can count on two hands. But while most of these neighbourhoods have experienced a transformation over recent years, they remain resolutely local at heart. Slick new developments and cool cafés might bring in new crowds, but neighbourhood stalwarts – from old pubs to family greengrocers – keep it real.  The world’s coolest neighbourhoods this year are, therefore, places with big personalities. Each area’s diversity is reflected in its food, culture and festivals. Community is key: local

Originally conceived as a virtual venture that accepted orders through Instagram, 3 Little Pigs pivoted to operating out of a shared kitchen before eventually moving to its current home inside Molly's Cupcakes in the South Loop. Chef-owner Henry Cai whips up what he calls “untraditionally authentic” American Chinese cuisine and with his new brick-and-mortar location, both longtime fans and first-timers alike need not worry anymore about missing out due to limited availability. Cai smokes fatty pork butt to make the signature char siu—Cantonese-style barbecue pork—and finishes it off with a liberal dose of sweet and tangy sauce. The menu also features favorites such as fried rice studded with three types of pork and a unique salt and pepper fried chicken sandwich dressed with fried garlic, sautéed jalapenos and mayo.

The team behind longtime barbecue standout Smoque branched out in 2023 with the opening of a steakhouse. Aptly named Smoque Steak, the concept skips the excess and opulence typically associated with chophouses in favor of a more relaxed experience that puts the focus squarely on the beef. The steaks are first smoked, then cooked sous vide before being seared, resulting in perfectly done cuts that are packed with smokey flavor. And the prices won’t break the bank—options range from a beefy ribeye to a chuck tender bistro steak that’s less than $20.

For its latest concept, DineAmic Hospitality celebrates 1950s Italian American cuisine with an opulent steakhouse in Fulton Market. The stunning 8,200-square-foot space is decked out in crystal chandeliers, fresh florals, booths dressed in lavender mohair, dark leather chairs and other elegant touches. This is a place to see and be seen, and chef Joe Rizza complements the experience with a menu that’s equally dazzling—Caesar salad is prepared tableside, squid ink pasta arrives topped with a whole lobster and the beefy steaks are grilled on a wood and charcoal hearth. The wine list boasts dozens of Italian bottles, while dessert is headlined by a slice of decadent chocolate cake.

This omakase newcomer from husband and wife Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee has arrived with much acclaim, including a Michelin star for Sushi by Scratch Restaurants’ outpost in Montecito, California. Tucked away below West Loop bar The Drop In, the 10-seat concept dishes out 17 courses across three seatings each night. You can expect plenty of luxe ingredients to be featured, as well as inventive nigiri—like a piece with unagi and roasted bone marrow drippings.

The team behind Logan Square spots Union and Lardon also operates this intimate and swanky cocktail bar. Housed in the same century-old building as the other two concepts, Meadowlark provides guests with a cozy den to hang out in—complete with low lighting, comfy leather couches and book-lined shelves. The drinks are all named after birds and there’s also an accompanying menu of small bites. Seating is limited, so get there early to snag a spot.

Looking for a laid-back spot where the vibes are good and you’re free to let loose? Then visit Way Out for fun times and reasonably-priced cocktails (every drink is priced at $12) like the Darkness Falls—a mix of gin, coffee liqueur, Campari and vermouth. Though the food menu mostly offers standard bar bites, you’ll definitely want to try the pizza potstickers. And for some friendly competition, check out the pool table in the back room. Every month, the bar also hosts a free burlesque show.

One Off Hospitality’s uber-popular Mexican restaurant expanded its scope in 2022 with the opening of a seafood concept. The menu features plenty of ceviches and fish tacos, but the star of the show is the pescado zarandeado, a whole grilled fish that’s been heavily marinated. It arrives alongside caramelized onions, smashed cucumbers, cilantro and tortillas for you and your friends to build tacos with. And don’t forget the pitcher of margs!

You’ll know this taqueria in Little Village takes tacos al pastor seriously the moment you walk through the door. The red-hued pork is on full display, beautifully stacked on a trompo in the kitchen and waiting to be sliced to order. Complement the marinated meat with chunks of pineapple and a generous splash of salsa for the perfect bite.

For those interested in traditional Chinese medicine, this bulk-goods store in Chinatown Square offers everything you’re looking for. Cure what ails you with a host of herbal teas and natural remedies. There are also dried goods ranging from scallops to mushrooms.

With hundreds of bottles to choose from, Rebel & Rye—named after the whiskey rebellion of 1794—can be an overwhelming experience. Fortunately, the able staff at this Southern-themed bar are more than happy to make recommendations for every palate and budget. American distilleries are the focus so expect plenty of bourbon and rye.

Japanese steakhouse and sushi restaurant Roka Akor took over the space next to its River North location and transformed it into a concept that pays tribute to the Macallan. The heart of the experience is the M Room’s tasting menu, which highlights the flavors and ingredients used in the Scotch-making process, plus complementary beverage pairings. But there’s also an a la carte selection of expensive and hard-to-find bottles, including pours from the M Collection and Fine & Rare Collection.

Part of a chain that originated in Canada, Planta Queen is perhaps Chicago’s swankiest plant-forward restaurant. The menu, crafted by executive chef David Lee, is home to Asian fusion delights, such as crispy gyoza filled with cabbage, carrots and mushrooms; jackfruit wings; and dehydrated watermelon nigiri. Not sure if a dish is suitable for your diet? There’s a handy allergen guide you can check so there are no unwelcome surprises. Fun cocktails, like the Sake to Me (sake, orange liqueur, watermelon, lime), complement the food. For vegans who want an upscale and trendy scene, there’s no better choice than Planta Queen.

There are numerous ways to get around the city, and rideshare apps are definitely one of the most popular. But where exactly do Chicagoans like to go the most? Lyft has shared data with Time Out Chicago about the top destinations around the city, from the best restaurants to top brunch spots, and it looks like riders are really gung-ho about eating out and, curiously enough, college-affiliated venues. These rankings cover the period between July 2022 and July 2023. Of the top spots overall, which are determined by the total number of rides, Northalsted gay bar Sidetrack lands at No. 1. Dining is a big attraction—modern steakhouse Maple & Ash is No. 2, followed by a collection of West Loop restaurants, including Bandit, Aba, Federales, Lyra and Duck Duck Goat. Time Out Market Chicago—the Fulton Market food and cultural hub—also appears on the rankings. West Loop restaurants are some of the best in the city and it would take many trips to even scratch the surface of what the neighborhood has to offer so plenty of traffic is to be expected. Looking at top tourist spots, out-of-towners are fond of staying at the Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown Hotel, placing it first. Kasama, the Filipino hotspot in West Town that draws lines down the block, comes in at No. 4. Its ascendance since opening in 2020 has earned it a Michelin Star and an appearance on FX's hit television show The Bear. Of course, no visit to Chicago would be complete without trying its most iconic foods so usual suspec

Christkindlmarket, one of Chicago's favorite holiday traditions, has officially opened for the season. The German-inspired market has three locations around Chicagoland—in Daley Plaza, Wrigleyville and Aurora—offering festive cheer and all sorts of seasonal trinkets. Whether you're a veteran or it's your first time, there'a always something new to discover each year. We've taken a stroll through the winter wonderland and highlighted some of the best food and things to do at Christkindlmarket. You have until December 24 (December 31 at the Wrigleyville outpost) to get your fill of glühwein and potato pancakes so don't delay. And if you're visiting on the weekend this year, you can skip the line with a fast-entry pass. Drink beer out of a souvenir stein Photograph: Jeffy Mai for Time Out Christkindlmarket’s most iconic offering is a souvenir mug, which varies in design each year. Traditionally, it comes with hot glühwein—the perfect drink for days when temps are below freezing. This year, though, the market is also selling its first-ever ceramic beer stein. You can have it filled with Bitburger Premium Pils, Köstritzer Schwarzbier, Erdinger Weissbier, Erdinger Brauhaus Helles or an alcohol-free Pilsner. At $25, the beer stein is a bit more expensive than the regular mug but is able to hold a half liter of liquid. Peruse a vast selection of ornaments Photograph: Jeffy Mai for Time Out Add some new pizzazz to your tree this year with a variety of decorations from Christkindl

Families across the country will gather on Thursday for Thanksgiving dinner and awkward conversations at the table. But before that happens, the Chicago Thanksgiving parade will step off downtown. The 89th edition of the annual tradition will see the return of giant helium balloons, including characters like Garfield, Rudolph and the Grinch, as well as marching bands from over 16 high schools and universities, cultural performance groups, equestrian units and more. This year’s parade will be co-hosted by actors Jen Lilley and Jesse Hutch. Here’s everything you need to know. RECOMMENDED: Thanksgiving in Chicago What time does the 2023 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade start? The parade is scheduled to kick off at 8am and run until 11am. What is the parade route? The procession will start at Ida B. Wells Drive and makes its way north on State Street, ending at Randolph Street. Where is the best place to watch? The best spots to catch the action will be along the east and west ends of State Street. You can also purchase a VIP ticket to watch the parade from a special area (111 N State St) with bleacher seating. What streets will be closed for the parade? The area from Roosevelt Road to Wacker Drive and Wells Street to Michigan Avenue will be closed between approximately 5am and 2pm. How can I watch the parade on TV? The parade will be broadcast live on CW26 and Pluto TV, a free streaming service.

Winter is coming but that doesn’t mean boating season has to end. Chicago Electric Boat Company—known for its fleet of donut boats, pontoons and more–is offering a new way to enjoy the outdoors during the coldest months this year: Hot tub boats. Launching out of the docks at Marina City (300 N State St), the six-person vessels will float along the main branch of the Chicago River, from Michigan Avenue to Wells Street, while passengers stay warm in heated water. Reservations for a 90-minute ride are now available through Chicago Electric Boat Company’s website, and cruises are scheduled to begin on December 8. The boats are equipped with underwater lights, floating cup holders and coolers. Food is not allowed on board, but guests are welcome to bring their own drinks. Bluetooth speakers will be provided as well so that you can add your own soundtrack to the experience, and there’s a section for sitting in case you need to cool off. The tubs will be sanitized after every rental using UV lights and saltwater cleansing. Customers are encouraged to wear a swimsuit and bring towels and flip flops, but can purchase them on site if needed. Boats will operate Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 8pm, with extended hours of 9pm on Saturday. The cost is $250 on weekdays and $315 on weekends, and riders must be at least 13 years of age. For those who are looking to avoid the harsh elements, Chicago Electric Boat Company is also offering heated luxury Duffys. These 22-foot boats can fit

Whether it's the amazing restaurants, world-class museums or beautiful parks, there are plenty of reasons to love living in Chicago. In the spirit of the holidays, we asked Time Out readers on Facebook and X what they're most thankful for as Chicagoans, and received a variety of responses. From the lakefront to the weather, here's what makes the city special. RECOMMENDED: Thanksgiving in Chicago “The variety and quality of things offered … and acceptance of others." “The outstanding museums here breathe life and culture into all of us.” “Experiencing all four seasons.” “I love the diversity! People. Culture. Food. Music. Art.” “Our lakefront and park system.” “The vibrant big city energy.” “The people and the architecture.” “The terrific, diverse foods. You can’t go wrong with what you order.” “Being able to walk to so many places and great public transit.” “Driving along Lake Shore Drive on summer days.” “An amazing and relatively accessible cultural scene.” “That I live in the most beautiful city in the world.” “The Cubs and Wrigley Field.” “Italian beef, the grid system, Lake Michigan and Ann Sather.” “Being from Chicago. Born and raised.”

Thanksgiving is almost here, which also means it's time to start planning your Friendsgiving gathering. This year, don't worry about making a dish everyone will enjoy and head to Time Out Market Chicago for tons of delicious options. From smoked meats to pillowy dumplings, the Market's various vendors offer shareable bites that should please the whole group. We're thankful for these favorites, and think you will be, too. County BBQ - Smoked meat sampler  Photograph: Courtesy of County BBQ You’ll probably get your fill of turkey on Thanksgiving, so why not switch things up and feast on some barbecue with friends? County BBQ offers a host of mouthwatering smoked meats and you can try up to four of them with the sampler plate. Choose from Texas-style brisket, Chicago rib tips, pulled pork, smoked wings and smoked salmon. They’re complemented by three house-made barbecue sauces. Demera - Messob  Photograph: Just Coast Chef Tigist Reda showcases the flavors of her home country of Ethiopia at Demera. Get ready for a hands-on experience as the dishes are meant to be scooped up and eaten with sour flatbread (injera). Order the Demera Messob platter for your choice of two entrees and one veggie side. Options include a spicy chicken stew known as doro wot, shrimp tibs, siga alicha and more. Sua - Truffle fritters and Basque cheesecake Photograph: Courtesy of Sua Basque GrillBasque-style cheesecake. Sua brings a taste of Basque Country to Fulton Market and you can elevate your Fri

The wait is over—the Michelin Guide has announced which Chicago restaurants have earned the coveted stars this year. Alinea is no longer the only three-star restaurant in Chicago as Smyth has joined the prestigious group. The West Loop restaurant from John and Karen Urie Shields—located above casual sibling The Loyalist—had previously held two stars. “The inspectors have been carefully monitoring the progress at Smyth, especially since it earned two Michelin Stars in 2017,” said Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the Michelin Guides, in a release. “They unanimously decided that now is the time to reward the restaurant, Chefs John Shields and Karen Urie Shields, and their staff for delivering peak creativity, precision and teamwork. This is an elite restaurant.” Also receiving one star each are Atelier and Indienne. Atelier opened in Lincoln Square in early 2023, replacing Elizabeth, a former Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s led by chef Christian Hunter, who was a James Beard Award finalist this year for Best Chef: Northeast.  “In full view of the dining room, Chef Christian Hunter and his team chart new waters, ever determined to make their own mark on this intimate space. Working quietly and seamlessly, the kitchen delivers a carefully calibrated tasting menu supported by nearby farms and packed with flavor and originality,” wrote Michelin inspectors. Indienne is the city’s first Indian restaurant to be awarded a star. Using modern techniques, chef Sujan Sark

November is upon us, which means cooler weather and impending arrival of the holiday season. At Time Out Market Chicago, you can warm up with comforting fall dishes from some of the newest kitchens, plus check out a variety of exciting events. It’s also the perfect place to host a Friendsgiving gathering, with plenty of shareable dishes so there’s something for every palate in your group. Here’s what you can expect this month at the food and cultural hub in Fulton Market. Maplewood tap takeover Local favorite Maplewood Brewery and Distillery is taking over the taps at Tony’s Rooftop Bar this month and we’re celebrating with a launch party on November 11. Stop by and grab a beer while enjoying a set by the DJ Firm. Maplewood brewers will be on site for tastings and each guest will receive a raffle ticket on arrival, as well as additional raffle tickets for every beer purchased. Veterans Day Time Out Market Chicago is honoring all who served on Veterans Day. Veterans or active duty members can stop by the bar at the Market on November 11 to receive a $15 card to use at any of the kitchens. Must present a valid military ID; the offer is limited to the first 100 guests. Candle making class with Einnim Candle Bar + Apothecary Head to the Market on November 13 for an evening of candle making led by Oak Park shop Einnim. Experts will be on hand to guide you through the process of creating a custom soy wax candle that’s uniquely scented from a blend of essential oils. Each candle com

Disney fans, rejoice—a new exhibit exploring the company’s storied history is coming to Chicago later this year. “Disney100: The Exhibition,” a collaboration between The Walt Disney Archives and Semmel Exhibitions, will open at the 35,000-square-foot Exhibition Hub Art Center (2367 W Logan Blvd) in Lincoln Park on November 18, which coincides with the date of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse’s first on-screen appearance in 1928. It will feature 10 immersive galleries, 14 interactive installations and more than 250 rarely-seen artifacts and memorabilia from various Disney franchises, including Marvel Studios and the Pixar Living Archives.  Among the things visitors will be able to see are visual developmental drawings for Sleeping Beauty and props like the Mad Hatter’s teapot from Alice in Wonderland, the poisoned caramel apple from Enchanted and the dinglehopper from The Little Mermaid. Also on display will be the Disneyland Park Employee Badge No. 1 issued to Walt Disney in 1955. "Chicago is proud to host 'Disney100: The Exhibition,' returning to the very city where the Walt Disney legend first began," said Mayor Brandon Johnson in a release. Walt Disney was born in Chicago’s Hermosa neighborhood, and a photo of his birthplace will be showcased in the exhibit as well. In addition to the exhibit, fans will have the opportunity to purchase exclusive merchandise from the gift shop and take photos in front of enticing backdrops. Ticket sales for “Disney100: The Exhibition” will beg

Chicago’s most prestigious restaurant awards will be announced next week but in the meantime, the Michelin Guide has just revealed the newest Bib Gourmand recipients. In contrast to Michelin’s highly coveted stars, a Bib Gourmand designation is reserved for places that offer a “meal of quality at a good value.” Chicago saw five additions this year, bringing the total number of Bib Gourmand restaurants up to 47. “A tasty dish at an excellent value makes for a meal that really hits the spot. Our inspectors enjoyed these restaurants thoroughly, and they know you will too,” said Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the Michelin Guides, in a release.  The complete list of Bib Gourmand restaurants, along with all of Chicago’s Michelin-starred winners, will be unveiled at a ceremony in New York on November 7. Keep reading to find out which five spots are the latest to earn the distinguished honor, and what Michelin inspectors had to say about them. RECOMMENDED: The Michelin Guide recommends eight new Chicago Restaurants Boonie’s  Photograph: Kim Kovacic  “This rice is the foundation of all things that are good at this homey restaurant that started out as a food stall. The crispy pork belly hash is an impressive starter that could very well double as an entrée.” Cellar Door Provisions Photograph: David Raine “In a recently refreshed, breezy dining room, this is an honest restaurant with unfussy, no-nonsense cooking where the plates are warm, the seasoning is spot-on

While haunted houses and spooky events provide frights during the Halloween season, there are plenty of scares that happen year round. We asked Time Out readers what Chicago-specific moments spark fear without fail and received numerous responses. From driving on Lower Wacker Drive to ghost buses, here are eight experiences more terrifying than a killer clown. Speed cameras Commonly installed near parks and schools, speed cameras are a scary sight for many drivers. It’s an even bigger shock when you receive a ticket in the mail—the fine is $35 for going 6-10 miles per hour over the speed limit and $100 for 11 miles per hour or more. Driving into Lower Wacker Drive Chicago’s most notorious multilevel street can be a confusing labyrinth, not just for out-of-towners but locals as well. Thanks to spotty GPS signals, navigating Lower Wacker Drive is a bit tricky if you aren’t familiar with the layout. And one wrong turn is all it takes to end up in Lower Lower Wacker Drive, a small, short section that’s also home to a drag racing scene. Chicago Air and Water Show practice day One of the city’s most popular summer traditions, the Chicago Air and Water show brings millions of people to the lakefront to watch dazzling stunts performed by daredevil pilots plus boat demonstrations. The Friday before the shows is a practice day, with jets noisily zooming around and often startling residents who have forgotten about the annual spectacle. The Red Line on the day of a Cubs game Although

No matter how long you've lived in Chicago, you're bound to pick up some habits that may seem normal, but are in fact unique to our city. We turned to Facebook, X and Threads to find out which peculiar behaviors are synonymous with the 312 and received a host of responses. Unsurprisingly, dibs and a certain hot dog condiment were heavily mentioned; keep scrolling to see the most popular Chicago habits—as chosen by Time Out readers. 1. Being a food snob Chicago is home to many amazing restaurants, some of which are among the best in the world. From Michelin-starred, fine-dining temples to remarkable cheap eats, locals are spoiled for choice. So the bar is pretty high when it comes to food and it’s not surprising that after living here for a while, it takes a lot to impress the average palate. 2. Knowing how to parallel park Although public transportation can sometimes be unreliable (we’re looking at you, CTA ghost buses), it’s not too difficult to get by without a vehicle in Chicago. But for those who do drive, knowing how to parallel park is an essential skill—especially if it’s a tight spot—unless you don’t mind a dinged up bumper. 3. Dibs Love it or hate it, dibs is an annual winter tradition in Chicago. Once the snow falls, some residents dig their cars out and leave lawn furniture, cones or other random objects on the streets to save their parking spots. It’s a polarizing practice, and one that makes parking during the coldest months even more difficult. 4. Understanding