This month’s stop in our Around Chicago series is a pretty exciting one for me since tomorrow I’m moving to a new neighborhood – River North! Since I already spend a great deal of time in the neighborhood with my office, boyfriend and Flywheel all within a few blocks of each other, I wanted to share some of my favorite spots in my new neighborhood:

For Date Night // Gilt Bar: This is one of those bars where the atmosphere and decor makes you just want to move in. Gilt Bar is one of my all-time favorite spots in the city with delicious cocktails, great service and amazing food as well. Don’t miss the Roasted Garlic Toast, Steamed Mussles and Paloma.

For Fueling Up // Bow Truss Coffee Roasters: Yes, we have Starbucks a plenty in River North but if you’re looking to please a coffee snob, Bow Truss is where it’s at. Blaine recently got me hooked on their Canopy Blend which has notes of dark chocolate, cherry and peach (yum)

For a Delicious Brunch // Restaurant Beatrix: Delicious food with an overall pretty healthy menu and bonus points for accepting reservations! If you’re sitting down for brunch, get the Pot Roast Sandwich with a side of bacon and definitely try one of their breakfast cocktails made with fresh squeezed juice. Also, pro tip: ask for a cinnamon roll warmed up for the table to share to start out.

For Grabbing a Last Minute Gift // Jonathan Adler: What do you get for the friend who has everything? Something from Jonathan Adler. The River North location is the perfect stop pre-birthday or housewarming party for gifts that are unique and feel super luxe. Their Zebra Stacking Dish is one of my go-tos!

For When You’ve Got a Sweet Tooth // Doughnut Vault: I consider myself to be a bit of a donut snob and connoisseur so this is not to be taken lightly – Doughnut Vault’s Vanilla Bean Glazed is the best donut you will have in your life. Seriously. They are cash only though and usually have a line in the mornings so be prepared.

For Dinner with Your Girlfriends After Work // Friends Sushi: This is seriously where I always end up with friends to catch up or unwind during the work week. The staff is always great, the restaurant has a really modern vibe and the menu is full of interesting options plus the classics.  Grab a glass of white wine and try the Big Friends roll!

For Grabbing a Burger and a Beer // 25 Degrees: Crazy burgers and boozy milkshakes. Enough said. 25 Degrees is a generally a crowd pleaser and is perfect for when you’re just looking for some comfort food – try the Number Two burger and get an order of half fries, half onion rings to split.

For Rooftop Drinking // Zed451: Fun fact, this is actually where I went on my first date with B. It’s a great rooftop without the typical rooftop crowd (I’m looking at you, The Wit). The fireplace and heat lamps help keep rooftop season going a little longer – grab a cocktail (their tequila drinks are always amazing) or a draft beer.

For Getting Sweaty // Flywheel: You’ve already heard me rave about my love of Flywheel but I had to give it another shout out! The team at Flywheel Chicago is incredible and the studio is in a prime location, even with a Whole Foods nearby for a post-workout snack. Stay tuned for a second Flywheel Chicago location to open soon in Old Town!

For Dinner When Your Parents Visit // Siena Tavern: Great Italian spot with modern twists on your classic dishes plus really gorgeous interior design. Mom and dad will feel super hip and urban, but without a menu that overwhelms then. Don’t miss their gnocchi, pizzas and gelato (and be sure to sneak a cocktail in as well!)

For Happy Hour with Coworkers // Taco Joint: Confession: most of the time I dread work happy hours. But you know what I’m always down for? Margaritas, chips and guac. Taco Joint has a really fun vibe and has margaritas by the pitcher to keep your whole team happy, because really, everyone’s happier with a margarita in hand.

For Catching Up with a Friend // The Purple Pig: I take pretty much every friend who is visiting from out of town to Purple Pig because of it’s location, great wine list and menu that’s perfect for sharing lots of things. It’s located just north of the river on Michigan Avenue which is just such a quintessential Chicago area. Sit at the bar area if you can and don’t be afraid to chat with your server or bartender for recommendations – I’ve always found the staff to be super knowledgable and there are always a lot of fun new things on the menu to try.

What are some of your favorite spots in River North? Anyone else live in the neighborhood?