Last weekend I headed back to Chicago to soak up some summertime Chi and see my best girlfriends and man, it was good to be back! It’s still hard to believe we’ve been gone a year and a half – it seems like a million new things have popped up all over the city since we’ve been gone. As much as I always love visiting my old favorite spots while I’m in town it was really fun to check out some of the city’s new hot spots.

A peek into my weekend back in Chicago:

Eats:

• Big Star: It is never a trip back to Chicago without grabbing dinner and margaritas at Big Star – I was pleasantly surprised to see the expanded patio area and that the restaurant finally accepts credit cards (although their iconic “CASH ONLY” sign remains). Tip: don’t be afraid of the crazy long wait for a table, put your name in on the list and head to the bar for a pitcher of margaritas and some chips & guac while you wait.
• Happy Camper: I’ve heard this Old Town spot can get sceney at night so beware but during the day it’s the perfect spot to grab a Bloody Mary and brunch (the breakfast pizza is SO GOOD). Don’t miss the Instagram-worthy neon sign in the bar area ;)
• Do-Rite Donuts:  If you’ve been reading for awhile then I’m sure you’ve heard me rave about Do-Rite already but man do I miss this place! For the best donuts in all of Chicago (and the world, perhaps) stop by their Streeterville location and grab a Cinnamon Crunch donut + a Nutella iced coffee.
• Beatrix Streeterville: During this trip I stayed with my best friend at her new apartment in Streeterville and I was blown away by how much the neighborhood has changed over the past few years. Beatrix in River North has been a long time favorite but their new Streeterville location just might be even better. Swing by for lunch and don’t miss the Straight A Salad (add chicken) + their vanilla lattes and save some room to grab a cookie on your way out at the bakery counter.
• G&O: In an effort to see as many friends as possible over the long weekend I organized a little brunch at G&O in West Town – the causal vibes were perfect for catching up with the ladies over mimosas and the staff was amazing! I’ve heard G&O is also a killer spot to grab a beer before headed to the United Center for a Hawks or Bulls game too.
• Dollop Coffee: Living in San Francisco has turned me into a bit of a coffee snob and I was so impressed with Dollop Coffee in Streeterville! The coffee shop’s atmosphere has some serious good vibes going on with lots of space to work on your laptop or grab a coffee with friends.

Drinks:

• Cindy’s Rooftop: Cindy’s has long been on my list of places to visit after seeing countless photos on Instagram of the amazing views of Millennium Park and it did not disappoint. Their creative cocktail menu had something for everyone with really unique twists on the classics (try the Kick in the Daisy!)
• Gilt Bar: Forever my favorite place to grab dinner and drinks in Chicago! Their Paloma cannot be beat and the mussels + garlic toast are the ultimate snacks for a light dinner. Ask to sit downstairs for a more intimate feel and don’t miss the photobooth.
• Tiny Hatt: The Chicago riverfront has come a long way over the past few years and it was so nice to see the river flourishing with new restaurants, bars and seating areas. I grabbed wine with Hallie and Jess at Tiny Hatt after taking Hallie’s Soulcycle class and it was so fun to sit by the river and enjoy the amazing view.
• Real Good Juice Co.:  I am obsessed with Real Good Juice. Plain and simple. The Wells Street juice bar has the best juices and smoothies in the city and I kept coming back for the Wendy smoothie for a refreshing cool down during Chicago’s hot and sunny summer weather.

Activities:

• SUP + Jet Ski on Lake Michigan: We rented SUPs last summer during my visit and had so much fun that it was a must-do again this year. The views of the skyline from the water from North Avenue beach are jaw dropping and it’s a really fun morning workout. After we were finished with stand-up paddleboarding we spontaneously decided to rent jet skis and it was a highlight of the trip – I had never ridden a jet ski before and could not stop laughing as we flew over the waves on Lake Michigan.
• Soulcycle Loop: It’s crazy to think that Soulcycle hadn’t yet expanded into Chicago when we moved out to San Francisco and now there are three studios in the city! I always love riding with Hallie when I’m back in town and seeing her do her thing and also really enjoyed Gunner’s class on Monday afternoon before I had to head to the airport. The Soulcycle Loop studio is in such a prime location and the roomy layout is great for when you’re super sweaty post-class.

What are some of your new favorites in Chicago?