BY JERMEL-LYNN QUILLOPO / Special to the Star-Advertiser
Chicago is known as the Windy City, and although the weather was sunny and bright the first couple of days I was there, I also experienced the crazy wind chill the city is so famous for.
The author tests her luck at the River Casino in Illinois. (Courtesy Jermel-Lynn Quillopo)
Being in Chicago for the first time was a wonderful experience. It reminded me so much of New York, but with a more metropolitan and organized twist. It was bustling like any major city, but a sense of adventure found me here. There were so many things to do, so many things to see — and so many things to eat! I gained some happy weight while I was there, that’s for sure.
As most people know, Hawaii residents love to gamble. In Chicago, there’s a place called the River Casino, and I just had to test my luck. Located in Des Plaines, Ill., it was packed on the weekday afternoon I went to hit the slot machines. Even though I didn’t win the “Wheel of Fortune” jackpot of $6,000, most of the action was at the gambling tables. I’ve played table games before, but the buy-ins here were a little too steep for me. When I was there, the cheapest was $15, but within 30 minutes the minimum increased to $20.
If you’re looking for a piece of peace, you will find it at the Baha’i Temple in Wilmette. There are only seven Baha’i Temples in the world. What makes them unique is they are no-denomination temples, meaning they welcome anyone looking for a place to profess their faith. The temple and its grounds are symmetrically designed with gorgeous gardens and fountains.
When you go into the temple there is a symbol at the top that symbolizes the “Greatest Name” in Arabic. (Courtesy Jermel-Lynn Quillopo)
For anything family fun, Navy Pier is the place to go in Chicago. There are restaurants where you can eat and enjoy the beautiful view of Lake Michigan. There are also activities for the kids like mini golf and a ferris wheel. During the early summers, there are concerts and a weekly fireworks show.
Take a hop of the ferris wheel at Chicago’s Navy pier, a great place for family fun. (Courtesy Jermel-Lynn Quillopo)
In Chicago, a gathering spot for breakfast lovers alike in the suburbs would be at Walker Brothers. The menu has such a wide selection that you’d be having a field day with your tummy. I tried their famous apple pancake which could probably feed three people. I was also able to try their cornflake French toast, giving a sweet taste with a crunch.
At Walker Brothers in Chicago, you have to taste the apple pancake and pictured here, the cornflake french toast. (Courtesy Jermel-Lynn Quillopo)
Family friends took me out to a nice dinner at Fleming’s Steakhouse. The slightly upscale restaurant has food that did not disappoint. From their calamari appetizers to my main course of short ribs of beef that sat on spinach and arugula, it was completely satisfying.
For all of you ladies that are trying to cut down on calories by avoiding cocktails, Flemings has a “Skinny Cocktail Menu.” I recommend the Fifty Shades of Rose cocktail, which was light and fruity with sparkling raspberry liquor over soda. And for dessert, their chocolate soufflé was amazing.
If you are looking for a light and guilt free cocktail, Fleming’s Steakhouse has a refreshing cocktail called Fifty Shades of Rose. (Courtesy Jermel-Lynn Quillopo)
If you are looking to share a piece of Chicago with family friends back home, may I suggest that you give them a bag of Garrett’s Popcorn. The famous popcorn franchise offers an assortment of flavored popcorn. However, their “Chicago Mix” is my favorite, it’s a great mixture of sweet and savory. With cheddar and caramel popcorn, you’ll be able to munch on that small bag within 10 minutes. I for one brought back six bags and I all of my friends thanked me for the yummy bag thoughtfulness.
Garrett’s Popcorn is a must try when in Chicago. (Courtesy Jermel-Lynn Quillopo)
My time in Chicago went by so fast but I guess what they say is true, time sure flies when you are having fun. I will surely make a visit back to scorn up more things to see and do.
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Jermel-Lynn Quillopo is a multi-faceted, energetic individual with experience in both print and broadcast journalism. “Social Encore” aims to tell diverse stories about Hawaii’s food, events and people; share your tips with Jermel via email or follow her on Twitter.