Local Love: Kim Peiffer's Favorites

The wood-burning ovens at La Madia churn out thin-crust pizzas so authentic, I feel like I?m at a restaurant on the Italian coastline. Bonus for its extensive wine list, great salads and pastas; the cured olives are an appetizer must. This is where I go when I want a relaxing, unpretentious dinner.

This Old Town spot is fantastic in so many ways. There's the atmosphere--a little upscale, a little trendy--and the phenomenal people watching, and then there's the food. Start with bread and wine; follow it with my favorite dish in the city, the Chilean sea bass. It is melt-in-your-mouth irresistible and perfectly cooked. Finish with a slice of heaven, the red velvet cake.

I've visited many Chicago spas in my years as a beauty writer, but the Grecian-themed spa at the Elysian Hotel takes relaxation and pampering to a new level. Complete with water walls and mosaics, the spa is the perfect five-star vacation from reality. The lava shell massage or the age defying facial are divine.

Yes, it's full of boutiques that I can rarely afford to shop in, but I love to stroll down Oak Street in the Gold Coast and check out all the ritzy stores (and ritzy people). Whether it's dressed-to-the-nines women popping into David Yurman or brides-to-be searching for their dream wedding dress, it's a people-watching paradise.

During the summer, everyone who's anyone comes down to North Avenue Beach to soak up some well-deserved sunshine. Runners, bikers, sun-worshipers and afternoon boozers all flock to this sandy stretch of beach. Not only is it great to get some beach-time, but the people watching is out of this world.

When I'm in need of a cocktail, I go to Market, especially on a warm night. The atmosphere is trendy but sporty (there are TVs everywhere) and the rooftop terrace is the perfect spot to mingle, sip a cocktail (try the bubble-tini!) and take in the gorgeous city views.