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WEST TOWNThere’s a clear point where the Loop ends in each direction. To the east, well, there’s a lake, and to the north and south, you notice the big buildings getting sparser. But to west, the lack of giant buildings definitely does not mean a lack of entertainment.

West Town, hailed as the up-and-coming area of Chicago, is the definition of cool. Rustic buildings and hip establishments blend together to make this

a unique part of town. Despite it’s late blooming as a cultural hub, West Town is making strides to gain back the young crowd with more bars and restaurants opening all the time.

But it’s not all about the new. West Town boasts some of the most varied architecture around. From

contemporary buildings to old factories to gothic-style churches, you’ll never see the same building

twice. Besides, repetition is not West Town’s style; it’s too cool for that.

West Town

everything west!

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D’Agostino’s725 N. Ogden(312) 850.3247Blue line to Chicago

Although this West Side restaurant lacks the originality of its forerunner in Wrigleyville, the menu is huge and so are the portions. Expect economical beer and pizza. There are many ingredients to choose from, so you can be as creative as you like. Overall there are no surprises; this is your typical Italian quick stop.

Muse Café817 N. Milwaukee Ave. (312) 850.2233Blue line to Chicago

This self-proclaimed “urban café lounge” is perfect for a quick lunch and coffee any day. Stop by at night when Muse Café transforms into an eclectic space complete with live poetry and music. The red walls and paper lanterns create a soft but funky atmosphere. Crowds flock here for its reasonable prices and a BYOB policy after 7 p.m.

Love’s Chicago770 N. Halsted(312) 572.4444Blue line to Chicago

Love’s Chicago is the perfect place to stop in for a quick bite to eat. On the menu are pani-nis, wraps, salads, pizza, soups and breakfast items. It also boasts a bakery with specialty coffees and smoothies and serves 11 different variations on the baked potato. Perhaps the most exciting item is the

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plethora of frozen yogurts, including a special custard which contains, at most, 50 calories per serving.

De Lux Bar and Grill669 N. Milwaukee Ave.(312) 850.4008Blue line to Chicago

De Lux’s appeal is three-pronged: a friendly staff, brimming drinks, and always-on sports games. Try the Buffalo wings; they won 1st place at the 2006 Wingfest competition. If you stop in on the weekend, you will be treated to a “Bloody Effen Brunch,” complete with Bloody Mary’s and NFL Football.

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Green Zebra1460 W. Chicago(312) 245.7100Blue line to Chicago

One of the hottest West Town restaurants, Green Zebra is a vegetarian’s paradise. Dishes like roasted eggplant tart topped with arugula goat cheese and smoky marinara sauce are packed with flavor without being overwhelming. There are a few meaty menu options, but mostly this eatery dishes out delicate portions of organic vegetarian cuisine. For dessert, you can’t do better than their black-pepper roasted fig tart à la mode.

A1A1 Upgrade Cycleworks1130 W. Chicago Ave.(312) 226.8650Blue line to Chicago

This is the one-stop shop for all your cycling needs. Whether you are looking for a new bike or looking to improve the one you already own, Cycleworks has a knowledgeable staff and offers both repair and customization services. The real appeal is its showroom of hard-to-find models, collectible bikes, and extensive pick of cyclist apparel and accessories.

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Muse Cafe FINDWEST TOWN

editor’s picks

01 Muse Cafe

02 Green Zebra

03 Sip Coffeehouse

04 Iguana Cafe

05 Jubilee Juice

06 Terry’s Toffee

07 Upgrade Cycleworks

08 Reserve

09 Funky Buddha

10 Rednofive

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Woman Made Gallery685 N. Milwaukee Ave.(312) 738.0400Blue line to Chicago

Newly relocated from its original Wicker Park location, Woman Made is a nonprofit art gallery attempting to estab-lish its roots in the West Town area. It features predominantly female art from across the country, almost all of which is for sale. Stop in and do not forget to check out both the upstairs and downstairs.

A Tavola2148 W. Chicago(773) 276.7567Green line to Ashland

Simplicity rules at this charming Italian restaurant, from its short menu to its Spartan décor. Vegetarians can dine on parmesan and sage gnocchi or lemon-lime marinated chicken with

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polenta and spinach. Heavier options include braised short ribs and rosemary lamb alla griglia. Aside from the wine, expect to spend at least $30 per person for a three-course meal.

WWII Quartermaster Depot1137 W. Chicago Ave.(312) 884.0050Blue line to Chicago

Fascinated by grandpa’s old army trunk? If you are in the market for camouflage, or if you’re a history buff, this store is the ideal place. It offers army-style clothing and combat gear, some of which is authentic WWI and WWII equipment. Give yourself time to rummage through all the merchandise.

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Reserve 858 W. Lake St.(312) 455-1111Green line to Clinton

As one of Chicago’s premiere nightclubs, Reserve attracts a hot crowd. The club’s demographic ranges from young college students to the more established urbanites of the city. DJ AM’s beat match-ing skill draws the largest crowds on one Thursday of each month, but parties thrive regardless of the day or DJ present. Celebrity sightings are common and have included the Black Eyed Peas and the White Sox team. The club’s lounge-style seating and décor are accented with Asian bamboo and Zen lighting. While you might drop a hefty dollar on a Cosmopolitan or White Russian, the posh scene is worth the visit, whether you prefer the cozier downstairs

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Sana Vita Studio1357 W. Grand Ave.(312) 829.8482Blue line to Chicago

Visit the pilates and yoga studio, Sana Vita, if you’re stressed and want to get some exercise. They offer classes seven days a week, and the first group class you take costs only $5. Sana Vita also has special packages and personal training ses-sions that are worth the price if you’re seriously committed to getting in shape. Space is limited though; so don’t forget to sign up in advance.

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SNAP470 N. Ogden(773) 593.9300Blue line to Chicago

“Hair, nails, color and good conversation” is the motto and driving force behind this salon, which offers typical services in an atmosphere out-of-this-world. Large, colorful paintings hang from the walls and loud music blares from overhead. However, plans to remodel are currently in the works, so stop by to see the transformation.

Blush1365 W. Grand Ave.(312) 492-9300Blue line to Chicago

Blush specializes in skin care and electrolysis, but also offers waxing and nail services. All facials are one hour and 15 minutes, with the added option of a collagen or paraffin booster for an additional cost. Although expensive, Blush is a good place to go for a day of pampering.

Roots Hair Salon1140 W. Grand Ave.(312) 666-6466Blue line to Grand

Roots Hair salon has a funky, urban vibe reinforced with the exposed brick wall and earthy colored décor. The staff is friendly, and in addition to hair services they offer waxing, makeup and a basic massage - a bargain at only $1 per minute. Roots is open seven days a week, Sundays and Mondays by appointment only.

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Funky Buddha Lounge

The unusual Indian

decor only adds to

the unique ethnic vibe

of this bar and club.

Standing out from the

competition with a va-

riety of special organic

drink blends, this place

offers a chill alternative

to the downtown club-

bing scene. Whether

you lounge among the

pillow adorned couches

of the VIP areas or go

wild on the dance floor,

local DJs and musi-

cians featured nightly

pump out great beats

that get your body

moving.

728 W. Grand(312) 666.1695

Blue line to Grand

Funky Buddha

west townto play

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Rednofive440 N. Halsted(312) 733.6699Blue line to Grand

Catering to upscale VIP and urban chic crowds simultane-ously, Rednofive’s sultry bi-leveled nightclub has an open layout that continuously has the twenty-somethings dancing throughout. Open into early morning hours, Rednofive thoughtfully provides plush couches for breaks from the dance floor to sip on a martini and leave the dancing to the hired professionals for a while. Rednofive caters to both the individual and groups, offering private party options for anything from a fundraiser to a bachelorette party.

B1B1 Sip Coffeehouse1223 W. Grand Ave.(312) 563.1123Blue line to Chicago

This hipster coffeehouse has an eclectic menu and a friendly staff. Sip offers a variety of blended coffees and teas - all priced under $4 - and sandwiches, pastries and a list of seasonal drinks to choose from. If you want a quiet place to sit, check out the upstairs loft area, or enjoy your meal alfresco in their backyard garden.

Fresco1202 W. Grand Ave.(312) 733-6378Blue line to Chicago

On the inside Fresco is a typical bar, serving up healthy

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portions of Italian-American comfort food. But walk outside to the backyard garden and you might think you have arrived in Tuscany: the outside patio is kept hidden by red brick walls and vines, while the quaint, romantic wall decorations compliment the exterior. Fresco’s charming décor makes it the perfect place to take a date.

Amelia’s Mexican Grill1235 W. Grand Ave.(312) 421-2000Blue line to Chicago

Although the menu includes the usual Mexican dishes, the ambiance of this restaurant is the real reason to stop by. The main dining area is intimate

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and large and multicolored curtains hang from the walls and windows, creating a softly lit environment. Along with a well-priced menu, Amelia’s of-fers margaritas and, for those who are underage, homemade iced tea and lemonade.

Iguana Cafe517 N. Halsted(312) 432.0663Blue line to Grand

This little eclectic cafe, nearly hidden by its remote location, features a restaurant and cof-fee shop in one. Catch a quick caffeine jolt accompanied by a delicious European style pastry or sandwich, or chow down on their ever-so-popular crepes with a glass of wine. Whether you go for sweet or salty, these delicious French treats hit the spot every time. Enjoy your dining experience with the cafe’s iguana mascot looking at you from its glass tank.

City Pool Hall640 W. Hubbard(312) 491.9690Blue line to Grand

This pool hall is a great place to sharpen billiard skills at any player level. A local favorite, several regulars were selected to play in the Hollywood flick “Pool Hall Junkies.” Enjoy various beer specials around $2 nearly every night of the week and take it a little further on Absolut Fridays where all Absolut drinks are only $4. You can minimize your spending and maximize your drinking on

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Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. when tables are free with just a $10 spending minimum.

Terry’s Toffee1117 W. Grand Ave.(312) 733.2700Blue line to Grand

If you are in the mood for gourmet toffee, biscotti or ice cream, stop by Terry’s Toffee. This shop offers more than 10 different flavors of toffee, all from the recipe book of the owner’s grandmother. While you can have your order shipped to your door, it is worth the trip to the store itself — this toffee is so good that it was selected for the 2005 and 2006 Academy Awards gift basket.

Doolin’s511 N. Halsted St.(312) 666-8070Blue line to Grand

Established in 1958, this self-proclaimed amusement supply company is the perfect place to get decorations for a party with any theme: from Mardi Gras to the Hawaiian beach. Cutouts of celebrities are positioned throughout the store, and if you look closely enough, you can even find some Northwestern University and White Sox paraphernalia.

D’AMATO’S #11124 W. Grand Ave.(312) 733-5456Blue line to Grand

Anyone desiring a taste of Europe should visit this

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“Italian and French Bakery Co.” Although the store is small and often crowded, the smell of fresh baked goods is enough to justify the wait. While most customers come for the freshly baked bread loaves and pastries, pizza and submarine sandwiches are another option.

Jubilee Juice140 N. Halsted(312) 491.8500Green line to Clinton

Addicts beware: the waffle fries at this joint are harder to swear off than chocolate, booze, or drugs. Showing off an enormous menu that could take hours to peruse, rumor has it that chicken sandwiches are a “not-to-miss.” With options ranging from health foods to juicy burgers, no one will be left hungry. Don’t miss out on the smoothies, quoted as being “the best in town,” or a tasty glass of fresh squeezed juice.

Big Herm’s409 W. Washington(312) 559.0081Green line to Clinton

On the entryway to an old stone building overlooking the river, men in casual Friday attire hoot and holler at co-workers hurling bean bags into wooden targets. Beer cans are served in icy buckets guzzled in the sun that makes Big Herm’s come alive from the hot dog joint it is in winter months.

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Iguana Cafe

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The food is greasy and secondary to the after work beer that starts flowing around 3 p.m. on a pretty afternoon.

Avec615 W. Randolph(312) 377.2002Green line to Clinton

This tiny West Side hot spot attracts a hip and noisy crowd of yuppies, and is the perfect venue for larger groups. Homemade sausages and cheeses are chef specialties. Experience all this restaurant has to offer by ordering their tapas, small taster-sized dishes like sausage-stuffed dates and swordfish. Feel adventur-ous? Try the duck cassoulet with flageolets and garlic marinated chorizo.

Blackbird619 W. Randolph(312) 715.0708Green line to Clinton

The crowd that frequents chef/owner Paul Kahan’s dynamic restaurant, a powerhouse for contemporary inventions, may be as fashionably minimalist as the décor itself. The menu changes every season, but memorable appetizers include sautéed skate wing and peach-rimmed crab compote. Close with one of their understated sweet waffle creations.

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spot for locals who have been faithful patrons for generations and appreciate the authentic environment along with the large classic Italian dishes.

Linda Warren Gallery1052 W. Fulton Market(312) 432.9500Blue line to Grand

A new gallery imported from California with a chic and extremely eclectic collection. The owner, Linda, has finally fulfilled her dream of opening a Chicago gallery and success-fully merges a diverse array of pieces to create a nice, unpretentious breather from stuffy, traditional galleries.

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Chernin’s Shoe Outlet641 W. Roosevelt(312) 850.0077Pink line to Clinton

Chernin’s is a typical outlet reminiscent of DSW Warehouse. The shelves stock shoes and accessories at affordable prices for both trendy and seasonal footware. Although the store itself is nothing special, it is a nice break from the over-priced Chicago boutiques nearby. After all, there’s nothing wrong with a guilt-free purchase of shoes at unbeatable bargain prices.

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Marché833 W. Randolph(312) 226.8399Green line to Clinton

This sleek and spunky bistro serves up fanciful French creations. The specialties vary seasonally, but the best entrees revolve around their elegant steak and seafood choices, served with quirky sides like fancy fruit soufflés and red onion tarts. End with a dramatic assorted plate of

C1C1 chocolate mini-desserts, which promise to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Moto945 W. Fulton Market(312) 491.0058Blue line to Grand

A contemporary space where the waiters dress in all-black suits, Moto spares no expense in creating innovative Asian-themed entrees, and likewise, its patrons are willing to shell

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out more than $50 per plate for the good grub. Inventive dishes include crisp and spicy won tons, served over duck pâté. It doesn’t take a meat-lover to appreciate their beer-laden Kobe beef, and their changing menu of custom ice cream packs the final punch.

Tuffano’s Vernon Park Tap1073 W. Vernon Park(312) 733.3393 Pink line to UIC-Halstad

This family-oriented Italian restaurant writes its menus on chalk boards on the wall, and is so comfortable with its neighborhood-style dining that it doesn’t even take credit cards. Tuffano’s is a favorite

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Terry’s Toffee

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