Mary & Edward

Mary & Edward moved to Chicago four years ago, and felt within weeks of arriving that they belonged here. Mary does marketing for the American Library Association and Edward teaches medieval literature at Loyola University.

What neighborhood do you live in?
We live in east Lakeview, a few minutes’ walk from the Lakefront, several storefront theatres, the Brown Elephant, Wrigley Field, Graceland and other Chicago treats.

What is your favorite thing about Chicago?
That it offers world-class culture and cosmopolitan company, but is really the biggest small town in the world. And the lake, of course.

What do you like to do for fun?
We go to the lakeshore for bike rides and Millennium Park for music in the summer; museums and galleries in the winter.

What are some of your favorite cultural activities in the city?
Good music at Millennium Park on a summer evening. The Mary Arrchie Theater upstairs from a convenience store on West Sheridan. Innovative productions at Chicago Opera Theatre. The passionate and lively Baroque Band. The DIY Messiah courtesy of the International Music Foundation every December. Ravenswood Art Walk in October. CripSlam Sundays at Victory Gardens.

What is your favorite restaurant?
NAHA on Illinois and Clark; the food is always as innovative and delicious as the welcome is warm—and the owners and chef are committed to the Green City Market and sustainability.

Best place to find sustainable food and produce?
The Resource Center’s City Farm between Cabrini-Green and the Gold Coast at 1204 N. Clybourn.

What is your favorite coffee shop or tea place?
Metropolis Cafe on West Granville.

Favorite place for ethnic food in the city?
Tac Quick, an fantastic BYOB Thai restaurant right next to the Sheridan El stop on the Red Line.

Favorite Chicago tradition?
The Green City Market Benefit in July and the International Music Foundation's "Sing-Along" Messiah in December.

Cubs or Sox?
When you live in Wrigleyville, the Cubs rule.

Where is the best view of the city skyline?
Montrose Harbor.

Where do you like to bring visiting friends or out-of-town guests?
All of the above, plus the Signature Room for lunch and Chicago Architecture Foundation walking or river tours..

What would you consider a ‘hidden treasure’ of Chicago?
Sunset picnics at Montrose Harbor.