23 October 2009
Ryan Lettier, Hotel Monaco, Chicago.
When friends are in town I take them for a drink at...
Avec at 615 West Randolph. It’s a small space that is well-designed and always full of young sophisticates.
The restaurant that best shows off Chicago is...
Merlo on Maple (16 West Maple). Authentic Italian food and a romantic setting.
For designer fashion I steer guests towards...
Wicker Park/Bucktown, a diverse neighbourhood with local designers and national superbrands.
For the perfect gift I’d shop at...
Sprout (745 North Damen, Wicker Park) for an eclectic mix of items for the home and garden, and the kids.
To see great art I’d go to...
The new modern wing of the Art Institute. Not only is the museum a must-see, but the building, designed by Renzo Piano, is a work of art in its own right.
Sights that are overrated include...
Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier.
Chicago’s best-kept secret is...
West Town. It’s quickly becoming a hotbed of great restaurants, but still has local charm and a grittiness that many gentrified Chicago neighbourhoods no longer have. People are always smiling here.
If it’s raining...
Chicago is home to many world-class museums: The Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science and Industry and Museum of Contemporary Art. You could spend all day in each of these museums.
Source: Qantas The Australian Way November 2009