Step Out and Stay Warm

© Patrice Grell Yursik / RumBum.com

Winter in the Chi ain’t like winter in most other US cities. In most US cities, inches of snow can mean paralysis and power loss. Here in Chicago, we call that February and we keep it moving. It takes a helluva lot for the city to call a snow day, and Chicagoans find ways to have fun during even the chilliest weather. That usually involves strong drinks and amazing food. Here are 5 places to while away the hours when the weather outside is frightful.

Eleven City Diner

If flurries in the air makes you dream of your mother’s homemade matzo ball soup, you need to know all about the Eleven City Diner. Half diner, half deli, all awesome – this establishment is known for generous portions and a family ambiance. Roll up for Sunday brunch and you’ll probably find a line snaking out the door, but the warm reception from the owner’s parents should warm you up. And if that doesn’t work, be sure to order one of their ridiculous Bloody Mary’s, which come loaded up with a garnish of Swiss cheese and deli-cut salami.  Affordable, delicious, down home – this diner has drinks to stave off the chill and food to warm the soul. Get the latkes. Thank us later.

Mercat de la Planxa

Maybe downhome and kitsch isn’t your thing. Maybe you’d rather indulge in a grand winter escape. In that case, there’s Mercat de la Planxa. Located in the chic Blackstone Hotel on Michigan Avenue, this place will sweep you away with sumptuous cuisine and breathtaking views of Grant Park. Executive chef and recent Iron Chef winner Jose Garces serves up high end tapas like you wouldn’t believe. Dates wrapped in bacon, stuffed with almonds. Wagyu steak. Garlic shrimp and scallops, all served with more bacon than you might consume in a month of brunches. Spring for the $55 chef’s selection, it’s totally worth it.

Hackney’s

When the wind is howling down State and Michigan, this historic Printer’s Row staple makes a perfect respite from the cold. Hackney’s is one of those very traditionally Chicago establishments – a 50-year-old family owned neighborhood mecca that is renowned for hamburgers, fried fabulousness and an array of brews that’ll make your head spin (in a good way). The ambiance is invariably packed and gregarious. You can swig your winter blues away with any cocktail you like, but for these cold days they’ve been offering a variety of yummy hot toddies that make for drinkable desserts.

Roy’s

Chicago might be the geographic, climactic, and cultural opposite of Hawaii in most ways, but the spirit of Aloha is alive and well in both cities. You can find warmth, incredible island-style cocktails, and unique only-in-Hawaii eats delicious enough to convince you that you’re actually enjoying that ocean ambiance. Alas, chilly reality awaits outside. All the more reason to order another pina colada. When you’re at Roy’s, don’t eat like a landlubber. The steak is awesome, but their specialty is seafood and the poke (ahi style tuna served Hawaiian style) is calling your name. Roy’s is one of few places in the city that serves this spicy fish dish.

ShowPlace at Roosevelt Collection

The stretch of Roosevelt Road near State Street is a haven for big box everything. But between the Target and the Whole Foods, there’s a new destination for couples that yearn for an elegant night at the movies. The movie theater screens and sound are state of the art, but the snack bar is even more impressive. Two words – bacon popcorn. Nuff said. You can reserve your seats in advance, and if you’re 21-and-up you can enjoy VIP balcony seats and the tres classy balcony bar. There’s something about enjoying a Jack and Coke and a grilled proscuitto and arugula sandwich that takes the moviegoing experience to a whole ‘nother level.