Chicago has one of the most vibrant music scenes in the world, encompassing every genre imaginable, from hip hop to house to jazz to post-rock. Here are some of the best places in the city to catch a live act.
• With its perfect acoustics and lavish décor, the Auditorium Theatre is a dream venue for musicians and audiences alike.
• Symphony Hall isn't just for classical; you'll also find top-notch jazz echoing across its balconies.
• The Metro turned 25 this year, and it's still going strong as the city's premier rock club.
• Catch up-and-coming indie, punk and even experimental jazz groups at the Empty Bottle.
• For electronica and other bit-based beats, head to Sonotheque.
In a city with such a vibrant arts scene, it's hard to pick out just a handful as the best. But here's a try:
• The Art Institute of Chicago, the CSO and the Poetry Foundation have teamed up to offer a yearlong series entitled American Perspectives, encompassing image, music and words. Opening day is this Saturday, Sept. 15.
• Redmoon Theatre is reliably entertaining and thought-provoking. Its current production examines the world of haute couture and "the virtues and vices of being naughty and nice."
• The Joffrey Ballet's upcoming performance of Giselle promises to be outstanding.
• Steppenwolf returns to the classics with The Crucible, opening this Thursday, Sept. 13.
It's so nice to know that even if you get up a little late on Saturday, breakfast is still waiting for you. Here are a few great brunch places for you late risers.
• The ever-popular Ann Sather has an oven-hot cinnamon roll waiting just for you.
• Orange (3231 N. Clark St.) serves up fresh-squeezed juices along with sweet pancake flights and savory omelet options. Don't forget the frushi!
• The Bongo Room's Wicker Park and South Loop locations both pack a mean French toast.
• Kitsch'n's kooky creations will conjure up mornings in front of the TV, watching cartoons.
• In the suburbs, it's hard to beat Walker Brothers and their massive baked apple pancake big enough for two to share.
Many galleries are gearing up for First Fridays next week, but that doesn't mean there's not art to be seen this weekend.
• The Art Institute has been wowing visitors with a retrospective of photographer Jeff Wall's work.
• There's still time to catch "Niki in the Garden," the vibrant sculptures of Niki De Saint Phalle, at the Garfield Park Conservatory while the foliage is still green (it'll be worth a return trip this fall to see them among the oranges, browns and reds.)
• Visit Aldo Castillo Gallery to see what's new in Latin-American art.
• Take a walk around the Chicago Arts District in Pilsen for a look at up-and-coming artists' works.
Chicago's restaurant scene just keeps getting better. In addition to the aforementioned Otom and Room 21, here are a couple other new places to try:
• Chef Kevin Shikami's latest, Shikago, is being haled as an instant hidden gem.
• Tavern at the Park joins The Gage as a dining destination near Millennium Park.
• Cordis Brothers Supper Club brings a little North Woods to Wrigleyville &mash; and locals are loving it.
• Sumptuous La Pomme Rouge is livening things up in River North.
Chicago is hot tonight — time to find a place to play it cool.
• Cocktail hounds in the know are heading to The Violet Hour in Wicker Park to be seen sipping.
• Rockit continues to be a destination on Hubbard Street, while fans of glammed-up burlesque a la Pussycat Dolls are heading to Cabaret across the street.
• Some folks head to the Underground for some celebrity spotting, while others head for Le Passage.
• Wicker Park's Chaise Lounge gets high marks for drinks and its huge rooftop bar on North Avenue.
It's the dog days of summer alright. Turn up the heat a little further with these sultry date ideas:
• Grab a blanket and a picnic basket and head down to Grant Park for the Outdoor Film Festival; this week's film is The Awful Truth, starring Cary Grant and Irene Dunne.
• The tried and true — fondue — is at its most romantic at Geja's Cafe.
• Chocolate is an aphrodisiac, right? Then Hot Chocolate must be a pleasure palace.
• Want to get a little more hands on? The Hyde Park Art Center's Cocktails and Clay is ideal for some artistic flirting this Friday.