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Jet Set Style: 5 Suitcase Essentials for Your Summer Vacation

Summer getaways should be breezy, fun-filled affairs, and nothing kills the travel buzz like lugging around a huge, overloaded suitcase. Local stylist Eric Himel to the rescue! Himel, who learned his style sense under fashion expert Tim Gunn, has chosen five essential summer pieces that are versatile, trend-perfect, and best of all, compact enough to fit into your tiniest carry-on. A bathing suit and sandals are the only other pieces you’ll need to complete the look, so throw 'em in your weekender and get out of town already!

Green Giants: A Guide to Chicago's Best Farmers' Markets

Forget trips to the grocery store for wilted veggies and underripe fruit; instead, vow to buy local like the chefs do. At Chicago's farmers' markets, you can score plump peaches, juicy tomatoes and candy-sweet apples, directly from the source and in-season. Whether you crave asparagus in spring, raspberries come June or romas when the late-summer locusts sing, these local markets are ripe for the picking.

Public Enemies: Dillinger & Depp's Chicago Haunts

Brad Pitt in "Thelma and Louise." Paul Newman and Robert Redford in "The Sting." Leonardo DiCaprio in "Catch Me If You Can." What is it about con men that gets our pulses racing? Chicago has cops and robbers fever with the release of the new biopic "Public Enemies," starring Johnny Depp as the infamous bank robber John Dillinger, who left a trail of busted vaults and broken hearts all over the Midwest in the 1930s. Dillinger and Depp both spent a lot of time in Chicago--Dillinger hiding out from the FBI and Depp filming "Public Enemies” in 2008--and we’ve dug up both of their favorite hangouts around the city. We’re not sure why con men make us sweat, but when it comes to Dillinger, we can say it’s a point of city pride. (Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures)

Eating Al Fresco: Chicago's Tastiest Patios

You want good food and drink and solid people-watching on the patio this summer, and you won't settle for anything less. We hear you. With outdoor dining options aplenty, a savvy navigation guide is essential. Follow these picks for dining al fresco at new hot spots and old standbys, and you'll have the kind of summer that drifts--instead of rushes--by. (Photo courtesy of Rockit Wrigleyville)

Chef's Day Off: Eating Cheap with Top Toques

Dining out in Chicago is a no-brainer when you've got money to burn, but what about when you have only 10 bucks in your wallet? For that quest, we went to the experts: local chefs. Sure, they know their way around a high-end kitchen, but on their days off, most of them just want to eat something tasty and cheap in their jeans and sneakers. We quizzed some of Chicago's top chefs about where they go for their cheap food fix. (Photo: Bi Bim Bop at Chicago Food Corporation by Lisa Shames)

High & Mighty: Chicago's Best Rooftop Bars

In its most basic form, a roof exists merely to protect whatever lies underneath it. But add some cushy couches, stunning city views and plenty of fun cocktails and--presto!--a chic rooftop bar is born. And that's just the beginning. From roaring fire pits and flat-screen TVs to lush tropical plants and gourmet eats, these bars and lounges take the rooftop concept to new heights. The sky, it seems, really is the limit. (Photo: Market Bar by Marla Seidell)

Meatless Market: Chicago's Best Vegan Meals

When you have to cross meat, chicken and fish off the menu and you 'don't go there' with dairy and eggs, the options for a tasty meal in Chicago may suddenly seem minuscule, right? Wrong! Meet Veggie Thing, our latest foodie lookbook showcasing the finest in cruelty-free feasting. Check out a few of our most favorite buzzed about and hidden delights you'll want to eat--without all the animal by-products that you won't--then head over to the site and submit your own veggie things to be featured next.

(Photo: Emilie Zanger)

3 Buck Bites: Chicago Meals Under $3.99

Remember the days of throwing a handful of change down on the counter and saying, "What can I get for this?" We do. Partly because we said it just last week! We're allowed to, thanks to our new frugal foodie lookbook, 3 Buck Bites, a go-to guide for meals under $3.99. From adventurous ethnic eats to classic standards, you'd be surprised how far you can stretch those quarters you found between the couch cushions. Here are a few highlights. And if you've got some of your own share them with us--you could be featured next!

(Photo: L & M, Eating The World)

Chicago Singles Scene

Face it: You won't be young forever, so living in the moment is a must. The good news is that Chicago's nightspots are jammed with sexy, fling-seeking singles. Whether you're looking to hang out (and hook up) at a sports bar on game night or shake it on a crowded dance floor, you'll want to check out our guide to the singles scene and head to these hotspots with your mojo in full effect.

SugarBomber: Chicago's Most Awesome Desserts

Hi, we're Citysearch, and we're sweet-o-holics. Visions of chocolate-covered, candy-crusted, frosting-smothered treats dance through our heads more often than we dare admit. We've been known to skip breakfast and lunch in favor of ice cream. They say the first step is admitting you have a problem, but if it's wrong to love chocolate-covered gummy bears, we don't wanna be right. If you're anything like us, you'll love our top picks for Chicago's sweet eats, compiled from our sugar-laden lookbook, SugarBomber.com Know a sinful treat that we should check out? Enlighten us with one of your favorites here!

Outdoor Workouts: Get Fit Alfresco

That Tae Bo DVD needs a rest, and so does that ab machine you bought one night during a 4am infomercial. When weather's warm, you should be workin' up a sweat outside. From yoga at Millennium Park to kayaking in the Skokie Lagoons, find an outdoor workout while you still can.

Plan a Perfect Picnic

It's the ultimate warm-weather dining ritual: you, a friend, and a well-stocked basket of goodies at a scenic spot. With all of the outdoor music and movies around Chicago in the summer, there are countless excuses for a picnic. Here's where to spread your blanket and fill your basket.

5 to Try: Cocktails with House-Made Bitters

Move over, fruit-infused liquor. The new must-have cocktail staple for the DIY bartender is house-brewed bitters. Originally medicinal, bitters--made from custom blends of herbs, roots, spices and fruit, steeped in alcohol--found their true calling at the bar, where a few drops help to round out a cocktail's flavor. Ambitious 'tenders at bars and restaurants around Chicago are making their own versions of the aromatic tonic, and while the recipes might be closely guarded, a taste can be had in any of these signature drinks.

(Photo: The Violet Hour by Jasmin Shah)

Historic Hotels in Chicago

Travel back in time to the Roaring '20s, when drinking was illegal, smoking was encouraged and Chicago's first hotel hot spots were springing up everywhere, attracting all the big hitters of Old Hollywood. Still impressive joints for an overnight stay, Chicago's oldest hotels are making history today just like they did back then...with updated plumbing, of course.

(Photo courtesy of the Palmer House)

In-Town Getaways

Save those frequent flyer miles, and plan a staycation instead. Chicago is filled with hotels, restaurants and activities that will lift you out of the Midwest to the exotic locales of your vacation dreams. Discover where to get away from it all, without flashing your embarrassing passport photo. Home voyage!

(Photo courtesy of the InterContinental Chicago)

Raising the Bar

At some of Chicago's most renowned restaurants, eating high on the hog is still affordable if you belly up to the bar. These five upscale spots keep their barstools and lounges filled by offering innovative, gussied-up bar fare at a fraction of the dining room prices. Just don't expect $2 Miller Lite on tap.

(Photo of the bar at Spring: Jasmin Shah)

The Chicago Rocker Bar

With all the nightlife hype leaning toward celeb DJs and outlandish sound systems, it's easy to forget about the less flashy rock and roll bars. Here are Chicago's authentic stops, and some that at least nail the look. Either way, rock is on the ticket.

5 to Try: Lumpia

Forget the ubiquitous Chinese egg rolls and try something different, the Filipino lumpia. As deep-fried appetizers go, the mini cigar-shaped, ground pork-stuffed rolls are about as addictive as they come. Buy them in bulk or enjoy them as starters at these five Filipino restaurants and grocers around Chicago. Trust us. You won't be able to eat just one.

Eco-Date Night

Falling in love and saving the planet--two seemingly challenging ventures--become a bit more feasible when paired together. Soothe your worries about reducing your carbon footprint by sharing a locally sourced meal, imbibing organic cocktails and going on a nature escape. Cupid and Mother Nature would be so proud.

The Layman's Guide to Hooking Doctors, Lawyers and Traders

The old adage about birds of a feather flocking together holds true when it comes to cocktails after work. Sure, this is useful information if you are a new doctor, lawyer or trader in search of camaraderie. But it also might interest those in search of something else--a well-heeled mate. All you have to do is choose your profession.

Dog-Friendly Chicago

We've sniffed out Chicagos best spots for doggie nirvana. So grab a leash and lap up the fun. From the Hotel Allegro to Brasserie Jo, here are the best spots to spend some quality time with your best friend.

(Photo courtesy of the Hotel Allegro Chicago)

Fill Up, Feel Good

The easiest way to volunteer, ever: Just dine out! That's the idea behind these Chicago restaurants where every time you eat out, you also give back.

After-Hours Clubs in Chicago

Where do you go when last call comes a little too early? We've rounded up some of the city's best after-hours bars to keep the spirits flowing well past 2am.

Chicago Wedding Planner 2009

Wedding planning doesn't have to bring out the bride (or groom) "zilla" in you or your beloved. Whether your budget has room to stretch--and stretch--or you're pinching every penny, a stylish and memorable wedding is within reach. Consult our guide to Chicago's best bridal shops, hair salons, hotels and bakeries at every price point, and prepare to tie the knot without tying yourself in knots.

5 to Try: Hotel Spas

If a little pampering is a must during your vacation or business trip, find ultimate relaxation with luxe body treatments, relaxing massages and moisturizing facials at these five hotel spas.

Hot Blocks: Little Italy

Chicago's Little Italy is a diverse neighborhood with proud Italian roots. From classic mom-and-pop restaurants where the red sauce flows like gravy to upscale Northern Italian trattorias where cream is king, Little Italy boasts a healthy helping of garlic-laden goodness.

Guys' Night in Chicago

Maybe you're tired of the old lady naggin'. Maybe you don't have a lady yet, and you're in the market for one. Or maybe you just wanna go have a good time. Whatever the reason, it's high time for a guys night out. And since you don't want guys night to be stressful, why don't you let us help with the planning?

Guide to Green Living in Chicago

Being green is always in fashion. With more and more companies making eco-friendly strides, it's easy to green your lifestyle from end to end. From organic baby threads at Grow and earth-loving cuisine at North Pond to environmentally responsible home-cleaning by Sparkle Queen, check out these eco-friendly businesses in Chicago.

Hot Chocolate

From classic cocoa to fancy chocolate creations made with fudge, truffles and more, these hot drinks from Chicago restaurants are a surefire cure for the winter cold.

5 to Try: Corned Beef Sandwiches

Think decent deli meat simply doesn't exist outside of the 212 area code? Think again. Try one of our picks for the five best corned-beef sandwiches in Chicago.

Editor's Favorites: Emilie Zanger

I may have grown up in Cincinnati, Ohio--across that flat expanse known as Indiana--but in the eight-plus years I've called Chicago home, I've discovered more than a few favorite spots. So where does your intrepid City Editor go for her brunch fix? A cheap glass of wine? A fancy night out? Read on, dear Citysearchers, read on.

Sexy Chefs in Chicago

With the celebrity status bestowed upon chefs (Thank you, Food Network), it's hardly a surprise that Chicago's top toques get the play they do. Of course, it certainly doesn't hurt to have smoldering good looks. It gets people talking and the tables booked. Here, find four guys and one gal who prove where the heat really is: in the kitchen.

Photo credit: Radhika Desai courtesy of Bravo

Obamarama in Chicago

It's the town where Barack Obama wined and dined, worked out, took his girls to school, built his political career and formally accepted our vote to become 44th president of the United States. The former Hyde Park resident will always have the Windy City in his heart, and Chicagoans (well, most of us) will always heart him. As the rock star--the man--is sworn in, we round up bars and restaurants celebrating his victory with specialty cocktails and meal deals during Inauguration Week.

Bars With Photo Booths

Some nights, the antics just beg to be captured on film. Whether you're puckering up with your main squeeze or squeezing in with your whole posse, grab your beer and head for the old-school photo booth at one of these Chicago bars. Just remember, this evidence will be used against you the next day.

Battle of the Flatscreens

In today's sports bar, slapping an old-school tube in the corner doesn't approach the standards of the real fan. For the die-hards, only two factors matter when it comes to TV: size and quantity.

An Affair (Guide) To Remember

People cheat, regularly, but all that two-timing takes planning. Turns out Chicago is stocked with bars, restaurants, clubs and hotels known for safe access and unnecessarily strong drinks.

Hot Blocks: Logan Square

Logan Square has always seemed like the less perky neighbor of bustling Bucktown. But traditional Mexican restaurants, stylish bars and an attractive green-space-dotted landscape add up to a Chicago neighborhood worth a dedicated trip.

Subterranean Superstars

True, the finest destinations are often in clutch locations--spaces reserved for elite food and drink, positioned in full view of every envious passerby. But those obvious choices can leave something to be desired. Namely, the thrill of discovery. For that, head downstairs.

Top 10 New Bars of 2008

Another year, another beer, and boy did we drink a few at Chicago's 2008 bar openings. We were buzzed in every season: We boozed at hotel lounges, inside gastropubs and by DJ stands modeled after church altars. Here, in no particular order, find the best new scenes of the year.

How to be a Wisconsinite in Chicago

While Lake Michigan will never replace Lake Winnebago and salt water taffy from anywhere but Door County is a complete rouse, Wisconsin's legacy is never too far away. Whether you miss its vast horizons, lined with trees, and the ubiquitous German comfort food, or you just want a taste of the state's legacy in the Windy City, here's a little solace and a little slice of home (without the stench of gurnsey cows or rancid paper mills).

Hot Blocks: West Ridge

West Ridge, Chicago's most multi-ethnic enclave, encompasses many cultures (Jewish, Irish, Korean, Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi) all in one neighborhood. Home to bustling Devon Avenue, as well as scenic, sprawling Indian Boundary Park and the Hasidic community of West Rogers Park, the district represents a crossroads of culture. Go for the unforgettable food, and then take a stroll and discover what else this multifaceted neighborhood has to offer.

It's Party Time: Private Rooms with Panache

The time has come for managers and reps to bond over hors d'oeuvres and spirits, fueling the potential for more deep discussion about business (snooze) or, even better, a karaoke session with the IT guys. Whether you want your office party posh and restrained or wacky and fun, we found the venues that set the right tone for your festivities.

Hotels in Skokie, Illinois

Hotels in Skokie, Illinois, are right here at your fingertips. Skokie is a northwest suburb of Chicago and near such notable other suburbs as Evanston and Niles. Check out our guide to hotels in Skokie.

North Chicago, IL Guide

North Chicago, IL, or the North Side of Chicago boats such landmarks as Wrigley Field and Lincoln Park. Check out our guide to North Chicago, IL.

Lincoln Park Chicago Guide

Lincoln Park in Chicago is an affluent part of the city's north side. Boasting fabulous shops and restaurants plus a block named by Forbes as "the most expensive block in the city," it is full of treasures. Check out our guide to the best of Lincoln Park in Chicago.

Editor's Favorites: Peter Behle

Favorite way to spend a weekend afternoon: Hanging out in the backyard, with ribs or a brisket on the BBQ and the Cubs or Sox on the radio.

Favorite weekend getaway spots: New Buffalo and Union Pier in Michigan's "Harbor Country", Lake Geneva, Milwaukee.

Favorite beer: I've got a few--Anchor Steam (San Francisco), Pacifico (Mazatlan, Mexico), Sierra Nevada Pale Ale (Chico, Calif.), Sprecher Amber (Milwaukee).

Favorite Chicago summer events: Taste of Chicago, Air & Water Show, NASCAR weekend at Joliet, St. Andrew's Greek Festival in July.

Now, here are some of my favorite spots in Chicago, many near my West Ridge (far north side) neighborhood...

Hyde Park Chicago Guide

Hyde Park on Chicago's South Side is home to the University of Chicago and such famous native sons as Muhammad Ali and President Barack Obama. Check out our guide to the best of Hyde Park in Chicago.

Schaumburg Hotels

Schaumburg hotels near Chicago are right here at your fingertips. Schaumburg was founded as a German settlement for recent immigrants to the area; it now boasts Woodfield Mall and the Prairie Center for the Arts among many other attractions. Check out our guide to Schaumburg hotels.

Michigan Ave Guide

Michigan Avenue in Chicago is what Sunset Boulevard is to Los Angeles and Fifth Avenue is to New York--a street not only famous to locals but legendary to tourists. Michigan Avenue boasts the Magnificent Mile, home of high-end departments stores and the best hotels in the city, plus the world-famous Water Tower. Check out our guide to all things Michigan Avenue.

Editor's Favorites: Valerie Moloney

Fact: I covered Chicago for close to four years, enjoying black pearl facials, indulging in high tea at the Ritz and meeting a celebrity or two (ahem, Paris Hilton) along the way all in the name of Citysearch.com. While I've moved on from the role of Chicago City Editor, I still get asked, "Where do you go in Chi-Town?" Without further due, the answers revealed.

Feasts for the Frugal

Economic recession got your piggy bank in a pinch? No worries, it's not necessary to bend your budget to eat out on the town. These Chicagoans know where to find cheap eats in a city full of expensive cuisine. But your sophisticated palate won't suffer-- the styles of these Chicago restaurants circle the globe: from the Middle East to Middle America.

Hot Blocks: Roscoe Village

A village within the city, Roscoe may appear to be a quiet little neighborhood, but looks can be deceiving. Past tree-lined sidewalks lies a myriad of unique shops, local watering holes and dining gems. Quirky is key in this haven for hip fams where shop owners march to their own beats. From kitschy to classy, Roscoe has it all.

Water Works: Chicago Spas

Retreat from the Chicago street into these contemporary spas that offer ancient bathing rituals. From the Turkish to the French, these diverse baths, showers and saunas are a great way to prepare for any season or occasion--not to mention leave your skin with a dewy, youthful glow.

Hot Blocks: South Loop

The scorched patch of urban moonscape just south of the mighty Loop is suddenly populated with restaurants, bars and--get this--boutiques. What's next, frou-frou wine shops? Oh, wait, there's one of those, too.

5 to Try: Museum Restaurants

There are a few museum-centered restaurants that not only provide a place to chill out, but also eats so likable that they threaten to become destinations themselves.

The Battle of the Brazilian Steakhouses

With more Brazilian steakhouses per square mile than, arguably, Brazil, River North officially earns the title of the Churrascaria Capital of Chicago. Rather than do the PR rounds to make sense of the neighborhood's numerous Brazilian steakhouses, we hit the street for some personal meat-on-a-stick truth from the folks who keep these places skewering. Before you choose your fave, see what locals have to say about competitors Brazzaz, Fogo de Chao and Zed 451.

Drinking it Old-School

Nosebleed-high fuel prices not only pinch at the pump; pricey gas means you pay more at that other filling station: the bar. But look to retro cans of brew and you might also roll back your bar tab. Dad would be proud--you're saving money and discovering the joys of old-school beer.

Belgian Brews

Like a good date, Belgian beers are long on attributes. Although styles differ, each is characteristically strong, complex, and rich in flavor. High amounts of alcohol are commonplace, which make for a mini-party with each bottle. Kick back at these fine taverns and savor the flamboyant taste of a Belgian brew.

5 to Try: Gelato

Gelato, that super-creamy, soft serve-like Italian concoction, is lower in fat than ice cream. So, the next time you hanker for something decadent, scream for these sublime scoops.

Pack a Perfect Picnic

From Filipino barbecue on a stick to high-end cheese, here's where to stock up for that perfect picnic on the beach or park near your 'hood.

Home Sweet Homewood

As a former Chicagoan, I find it easy to balk at the chain dining options in my new city of Homewood. Yes, right off Interstate 294, the usual suspects?Applebee?s, Chili?s and Panda Express dominate Halsted Street, but don?t count out this South Side village for its ?corporate? face. Downtown Homewood looks downright cozy. From old-school ice cream shops to tiny taps, here are some hidden spots residents love and appreciate.

Hot Blocks: Edgewater

Edgewater may sound like a far ride on the El, but easy lakefront access, an abundance of ethnic eateries and vintage emporiums make this Far North enclave well worth the trek. Although it's gentrifying at warp speed, the neighborhood manages to retain a tranquil vibe, with turn-of-the-century homes and 1920s architecture that attracts families and young fashionables alike. Ethiopian, Asian fusion and noodle houses are among the diverse cuisine offerings, while live music, belly dance and cozy bars keep locals and visitors clamoring for more.

Hot Blocks: West Town

Surely, part of West Town's new appeal must be its undefined boundaries--a nebulousness that earns the neighborhood a kind of mysterious vibe. You hear "it's in West Town" and think cool?now where's that, exactly? Smart business owners know this, too, resulting in a heavy concentration of leading-edge restaurants, bars and shops. Start your trip-planning with some of these spots.

Vegging Out: The Best in Vegan Dining

Contrary to popular belief, vegans--who swear off meat, dairy and refined sugar--are not deprived. The reality is an explosion of creativity and unleashed flavor. From diner burgers to Indian buffets, Chicago's dairy- and meat-free options are aplenty. So go ahead, introduce your palette to six staple restaurants on the vegan scene.

DIY Style for Frugal Fashionistas

Tough economic times call for pinching pennies, but that doesn't mean comprimising style just to pay bills. Here, we find Chicago boutiques that teach you how to unleash the budding designer in you with chic A-line skirts, hand-made bracelets and more.

Theater Deals

You've scored the tickets--now where to eat before curtain time? Turns out restaurants understand the theater-fan dilemma: crunched for time, hungry, but not crazy about blowing wads of cash before the first act. We've rounded up the deals that are worth a standing ovation.

Taste Turn-Ons: 8 Aphrodisiacs

If there's anything we've learned from Mickey O'Rourke (besides how to rock a fur coat and sunglasses), it's that ice cubes + chocolate sauce + blindfolds = seduction. As pop culture and history tells it, foods are aphrodisiacs. Romantics, indulge in taste tours at these eight Chicago restaurants. They might just be what your love affair needs.

Essential Chinatown Eats

You can't leave Chinatown hungry. Escape the Westernized rut you know as Chinese--spring rolls does not a meal make--for these five treats.

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Photo credits: Baked goods, bubble tea, duck and hot pot by Daniela Montelongo; dumplings by Shutterstock

5 to Try: Pies

Appetizers are great. Entrees are essential. But nothing beats a good old piece of pie, whether it's a by-the-books classic or a modern-tinged treat.

Drunk Food

A funny thing happens somewhere between drink number six and your pillow. You get to thinking that fried things are in order. And cheese sounds good, too. Well it's high time you tune in to what your body is saying and chow down. Here's where to get it done--places that won't judge you for your bleary eyes and carefully measured speech.

5 to Try: Fall Cocktails

Crisp temps hearken to apple orchards and pumpkin patches, but we city dwellers are more likely to flock to a makeshift market set up on a parking lot. Still, we can drink to the season, right?

Best Bathrooms

The quality of your local watering hole rarely extends to the restroom. Sad, as patrons usually make at least one visit during a cocktail session. Here we round up some of the city's finest loos, from fancy to faux pas.

5 to Try: Pierogis

They're more than fun to say: Plump, sticky and hearty, these dumplings are staples of Chicago Polish food. Check out our list of the five best.

5 to Try: Cupcakes

Nothing says nostalgia more than cupcakes, those petite treats reminding us of mom's kitchen and 4th grade birthday parties. But they aren't just for kids anymore; check out five of our favorites.

Summer in Winter Wonderland

It's cold. It's dark. The holidays are over, and it can be a depressing time. What better time to explore all the summery things to do that this glorious city offers year-round? From water parks to gelato, here's a list to get you started.

Bundle Up in Style

Packing on the layers is essential for cold weather, but staying warm doesn't have to mean sacrificing style. Whether it's the perfect scarf, hat or pair of gloves, check out these Chicago shops for winter accessories that are chic yet functional.

5 to Try: Champagne Bars in Chicago

You'll find plenty of reasons to celebrate at these bars. From simple sparkling wine to the finest French champagne, enjoy your favorite bubbly at these Chicago champagne bars.

Neighborhood Bars

From Irish pubs to sports bars, make yourself at home at Chicago's best local hangouts.

Sports Bars: Where to Watch the Game

A good sports bar used to be one with a TV big enough to tell the teams apart; now they need a 42' or bigger flatscreens on every wall streaming basketball, football and Premier League soccer simultaneously just to compete. But it isn't just about hi-def: there's some ineffable sporting spirit--which all of these bars have--that you can't get at Best Buy. Oh, and wings--it's gotta have some decent wings.

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