THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Choose Your Autumn Fun!

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Adorable baby boy playing in big pumpkin and autumn leaves in fall park

There’s nothing like experiencing the autumn season in Chicago, especially on the weekends!  And it just so happens that this weekend comes complete with another Oktoberfest, a myriad of fall festivities, and pre-Halloween tours.  Are you ready to choose your autumn fun?

Join in celebrating Chicago’s coolest season at Oktoberfestiversary this Saturday and Sunday as Begley Brewing Company and Dovetail Brewery team up once again for their annual fall bash taking place outside in the shared lot between the breweries located at the corner of Ravenswood and Belle Plaine Avenues in the North Center neighborhood.  This event, of course, offers special beer tappings as well as favorites from the Begley and Dovetail breweries.  Also, on the agenda there is plenty of live music, delicious bites from food trucks, and kids’ activities (Saturday only) featuring balloon twisting, face painting, Skee ball, coloring activities, a Wiggleworms main stage, and more.  It’s a fall party not to be missed!

Chicago’s free and family-friendly fall celebration returns with the Lincoln Park Zoo: Fall Fest now through October 26th at the Lincoln Park Zoo (2400 N. Cannon Dr.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.  This fest features a full slate of harvest-time fun which includes free musical entertainment, professional pumpkin carvers, a pumpkin patch, fall-themed enrichment for zoo animals, a free fall garden tour, and more.  Plus, this year’s ticketed attractions include the Giant Fun Slide, Fall Fun Zone, rides, inflatables, and much more.  It’s a festival that offers something new and different each weekend!

Returning for another year to a two-acre plot of land just west of Goose Island is Jack’s Pumpkin Pop Up Chicago now through November 2nd at 1265 West LeMoyne Street.  This ultimate all ages fall destination features a huge corn maze, over 10,000 pumpkins, axe throwing, carnival games, fortune tellers, photo ops, gem mining, food trucks, seasonal cocktails, and more.  When you’re ready to turn autumn all the way up, this is Chicago’s go-to spot rather than trekking out to the suburbs!

American Ghost Walks is offering two tours this Sunday to get you in the spirit for our upcoming Halloween holiday –

The Devil in the White City Bus Tour takes you on an immersive 3-hour (2 p.m.-5 p.m.) experience which meets up at the inside bar at the Congress Plaza Hotel (520 S. Michigan Ave.) in the South Loop.  This bus tour uncovers the chilling tale of America’s first serial killer, HH Holmes, as you visit several sites of intrigue and delve into the dark history of Chicago’s Victorian Era.  You will even visit the site of the former Murder Castle of HH Holmes which is believed to be the inspiration for the Hotel Cortez in the hit television show American Horror Story!

The Halloween Chicago Ghost Tour & Hunt: Lincoln Park Hauntings is a spine-chilling two-hour (8 p.m.-10 p.m.) walking, guided exploration that meets in front of the Chicago History Museum (1601 N. Clark St.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.  This walking tour is best known for its eerie hauntings and chilling history of one of Chicago’s most haunted places as you dive into the original City Cemetery and the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre site for a unique chance to experience the city’s supernatural side.  It’s a must visit for paranormal enthusiasts and is suitable for ages 13+!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: From Protests to Farmer’s Markets, the Loop’s Daley Center Plaza is the Town Square of Chicago

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Untitled massive sculpture from Pablo Picasso at Daley Plaza, Skyscrapers background, people around

“The center’s plaza…puts a modernist spin on the courthouse’s traditional role as the center of the town square”

Blair Kamin, Former Architecture Critic, Chicago Tribune 

Walk downtown any day of the week on Washington Street between Clark and Dearborn Streets, and you’ll find a bustling  center alive with activity… commuters rushing to their jobs, buskers creating a rhythmic beat,  and in the middle of it all is Daley Center Plaza, 50 W. Washington Street, the courtyard adjacent to the Richard J. Daley Center, occupying the southern half of the block.

It’s also been the center of democracy for Chicago, a well-known spot since the beginning for public gatherings and public discourse, including a number of significant protests over the years, including ICE occupation, reproductive and immigrant rights.  

Meet Me at “The Picasso!”

Daley Center Plaza’s most distinctive feature is a 50-foot landmark best known as “The Picasso,” the first monumental abstract public artwork in Downtown Chicago. According to Wikipedia sources, architect Richard Bennett wrote Picasso a poem asking him to make the sculpture. Picasso accepted, saying “You know I never accept commissions to do any sort of work, but in this case I am involved in projects for the two great gangster cities” (the other being Marseille, France).

Before the Picasso sculpture, public sculptural artwork in Chicago consisted primarily of historical figures. The sculpture was commissioned in 1963 by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), one of the architectural firms that designed the plaza and the Chicago Civic Center (now known as the Richard J. Daley Center), as a companion to the modernist government office building.

Picasso completed the sculpture in 1967, as a gift to the City of Chicago. Though controversial for its abstract form, it quickly became a Chicago landmark. 

Picasso told neuropsychological researcher and writer Stanley Coren that the head of the sculpture is an abstract representation of his Afghan Hound named Kabul, according to Wikipedia sources.

The Picasso was the site of an August 23, 1968, press conference in which Yippies Jerry Rubin, Phil Ochs, and others were arrested after nominating a pig — Pigasus — for president of the United States. This event was held days before the opening of the 1968 Democratic National Convention, which became known for its anti-Vietnam war protests.

The Fountain 

Another distinctive feature of Daley Center Plaza is the in-ground fountain and eternal flame memorial to the dead from World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Each day, according to several sources, it serves more than 10,000 people taking lunch breaks by the fountain.

During holidays such as St. Patrick’s Day, the fountain is dyed in various colors in celebration (green, of course, for St. Patrick’s Day). It was dyed team red in honor of the Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup run in 2010.

The Farmer’s Market 

The plaza serves as a location for many civic functions including the city’s longest running Weekly Farmers’ Market, held on Thursdays from May through October, regular ethnic festivals, and Christkindlmarket, a outdoor German market, in the winter. 

Noontime Events

Every weekday from 12pm-1pm, Richard J. Daley Center offers free cultural programming,  including singing, dancing, flag raisings, cultural ceremonies, and much more. 

In The Movies

Daley Center Plaza was used extensively in the climactic scenes of the 1980 film The Blues Brothers. The interior of the building, as well as the plaza, the Picasso, and the neighboring James R. Thompson Center are also featured in the 1993 film The Fugitive and in 2006’s The Lake House. The plaza also was used in 2006’s Stranger than Fiction.

Upcoming: Christkindelmarket Returns!

From November 21-December 24, Daley Center Plaza becomes a European Street Market with the return of Christkindlmarket for the 28th year. Open Sunday through Thursday from 11am – 8pm, and Friday through Saturday, from 11am – 9pm, visitors are treated to a shopping experience complete with the fragrance of roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst and hot spiced wine, the sound of festive music, and the glimmer of sparkling Christmas ornaments, all in a cozy atmosphere – a visit to the market takes all your senses on a journey! 

Visitors can explore vendor products from around the world, participate in special events, and enjoy the unique shopping experience! 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Why is River North’s Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf so special?

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dinner banquet table in a steakhouse with sirloin steak and farofa in focus and rack of lamb out of focus and other dishes

Why would it take 21 days to secure a reservation to a Chicago steakhouse? In a city filled with great places for steak, what makes River North’s Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf so special?

Could it be their Hand-Made Sourdough, with cultured butter and sea salt?

Could it be their embrace of “French flair without the formality, blending fine dining with unabashed fun,” as their website says?

Could it be that the modern steakhouse seduces with its speakeasy feel, as Resy notes?

There may be something to that seduction. Eater.com said at the time of Bavette’s August 2012 opening, “With red leather booths, antiqued mirrors advertising culinary catches, exposed and distressed brick, a zinc-topped bar, a vintage sink subbing as a raw bar and dark leather couches in the lower-level lounge where papier-mache animal heads grace the walls, the space screams sexy.”

Whatever the reason, Brendan Sodikoff’s steakhouse delivers on every count. From Reddit to Resy to Google and Eater, Bavette has earned top ratings for their food and service with a French flair.

Their hors d’oeuvres can be best described as “unctous.” Baked Goat Cheese (Circa 1992) Is made with red sauce and fines herbes, and served with garlic bread. Sizzling Shrimp Scampi has garlic bread, chilies, and parsley. Baked Crab Cake is made with Blue crab, preserved lemon, and rémoulade. Tenderloin Steak Tartare comes with Dijonnaise and a slow-cooked egg. 

Salads can also be described as “unctuous:” Lyonnaise Salad, served as a side or full meal, has bacon, soft-cooked egg, and is festooned with brioche croutons. Crab Stuffed Avocado pairs bibb lettuce and dijon-sherry vinaigrette in a fresh avocado with crab. Smoked Salmon Caesar has potato chips and a classic caesar dressing. Bacon Roasted Tomato is made with watercress, olive oil, and herb salt.

And now…Boeuf!

Across the universe, Bavette’s earned praise for its 10oz Double Wagyu Cheeseburger, apressed and griddled Snake River Farms wagyu (i.e. the pioneers of American Wagyu beef), its  buttery texture and complex flavors paired with American cheese, pickles, onions, dijonnaise and hand-cut fries..Roasted Bone Marrow  is served with caramelized red onion jam and a parsley salad, while Ribeye Steak Frites features a 10-ounce ribeye smothered in béarnaise sauce and served with hand-cut fries.  Their Filet Mignon – Petite Duchess Cut  is a six-ounce filetserved with roasted tomato, béarnaise, watercress, and steak salt. They also serve a 10-ounce traditional version with béarnaise and steak salt. Also, their Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye earned raves for their 20 oz, 42-day dry aged, served with béarnaise sauce and steak salt. 

And More…Poultry and Seafood!

If beef isn’t your forte, many have also suggested Bavette’s Spiced Fried Chicken, served with mashed potatoes, sweet pea, cipollini gravy, or their Roasted Chicken with mashed potatoes, garlic confit, and chicken jus. Double Cut Berkshire Pork Chop is served with roasted mushrooms and herb jus, while Lamb Chops are fragrant with roasted garlic and rosemary. 

 Lobster Frites has herbed butter sauce and hand-cut fries, Branzino (sea bass) has a cilantro-mint pesto and lemon.  Big Glory Bay Salmon has black pepper, brown butter, and lemon. 

Mine is far from the only positive review.

“If you haven’t tried Bavette’s you are missong out!! . This was not just dinner, this was by far an entire experience and it was amazing.

The dry-aged bone-in ribeye was truly exceptional. You have plenty of time to plan as reservation are 20+ days out, which is a testament to its popularity. The dining experience was further enhanced by the great service. Every aspect of the meal, from the perfectly cooked steak to the attentive service, was enjoyable. Overall, it was a truly memorable dining experience that I highly recommend.”

Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf is located at 218 W.  Kinzie Street. They are open Sunday from 3pm-10:30pm, Monday – Thursday from 4pm-10:30pm, and Friday – Saturday from 3pm-11pm.

Reservations: They’re available up to 21 days in advance, with each new date becoming available at 9 AM. 

They welcome walk-ins at the bar, where they serve the full menu.

As they explain on their website: “We are an intimate restaurant and accept reservations for parties of up to 6 guests… a $2.50 per person reservation fee will be added to all online reservations to secure your seats. Holiday booking fees may vary. 

We do not charge a reservation fee for walk-in guests.

We are delighted to host guests of all ages. Kindly note that high chairs and booster seats are not available, and our dining room cannot accommodate strollers. “

For more information and reservations, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Tips for planting fall trees and shrubs

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Family planting a tree in garden at backyard

Now is the best time to plant new trees and shrubs, but you may feel a little lost on how to go about it. Here are some practical tips based on my experience:

Buying

Be careful choosing trees and shrubs for your landscape. Most garden centers and big box stores will reduce the prices on their inventory by as much as 50%. They want to sell as much as possible now so as not to carry it throughout the winter. Granted, some specimens will look a bit tired—but if they look generally healthy, they should do fine when you get them into the ground!

Make sure you research different types to find what fits your space. You don’t want to plant an oak tree in a small backyard. Some shrubs too will have growth that may be wider than you want for say, a privacy hedge. Just be informed, a good deal on a tree may be hard to pass up but it won’t be worth it in five years, and it’s taken over your space. 

Planting

Directions for planting will come with the tree or shrub, or are easily found online. Make sure your hole is deep enough and wide enough. Loosen the soil at the bottom and sides for easier root spread. If directions indicate, remove any cover on the root ball, including cloth and any wires. Score around the ball to loosen the roots a bit. Fill in the hole, firming and watering as you add more. This will eliminate air pockets. Use regular topsoil, not soil with fertilizer added. It’s never good to fertilize young trees and shrubs! 

The hole should be at least twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep. You want the flare of the trunk, which is where the trunk widens at the bottom above the roots, to be above ground. Add 2-3 inches of mulch leaving a six-inch ring around the trunk. This will prevent fungus and pest damage. Prune sparingly until the tree or shrub is at least a year old.

Maintenance

The new planting will need to be thoroughly watered weekly until the ground freezes. The best way, especially with new plantings, is just to let the open hose trickle a foot away from the trunk. Let it go at least an hour or so. You usually only need to do this for trees and shrubs in their first year, as rain is sufficient after that. 

Unfortunately, around much of the country and certainly around Chicagoland we are in a drought situation this fall. A lot of rain is needed for established trees and shrubs to get through the winter healthy. Since we have yet to get that rain, we deep root water all our trees and shrubs weekly and will continue to do so until the ground freezes. The best way to do this is a root waterer. That’s a long pole with holes on the bottom that connects to the garden hose and directs water deep into the roots. Do this at the drip line. No root waterer? Do the hose trickle, also at the root line.

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

The Coffee Test: How to Know If You’ll Really Love a Neighborhood

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Close-up of woman's hands in trench coat gently holding a cup of cappuccino with latte art, seated at a white table

Buying a home isn’t just about the house — it’s about how it feels to live there. You can love a floor plan, fall for a backyard, and still find yourself missing the sense of community (or the perfect local latte) once you’ve moved in. That’s why every smart homebuyer should take the Coffee Test before making an offer.

What’s the Coffee Test?

The Coffee Test is simple: before you commit to a neighborhood, spend some time living like a local. Find a café, order your favorite drink, and take in the atmosphere. The idea is to experience the daily vibe of an area — not just the curb appeal or the listing photos.

1. Feel the Energy

Every neighborhood has its own rhythm. Some are lively and social, while others are peaceful and tucked away. Sit outside your coffee spot for a bit and notice how people interact. Are neighbors chatting? Are there families walking by, or is it mostly commuters in a rush? Your surroundings will tell you a lot about whether this place matches your lifestyle.

2. Explore the Walkability

Can you stroll to a park, grocery store, or restaurant? Maybe even take a scenic jog or dog walk? The ability to walk to local spots adds huge value to everyday living — and even boosts long-term property appeal.

3. Talk to the Locals

Baristas, shop owners, and regulars are some of the best sources of neighborhood insight. Ask about community events, safety, and what they love (or don’t) about the area. Locals will tell you what it’s really like beyond what you see on a quick drive-through.

4. Check the Commute and Convenience

After your coffee stop, test your route to work or your favorite weekend hangout. How long does it actually take with traffic? Is there parking nearby? These small details can make a big difference in how much you’ll enjoy your new home day to day.

5. Trust Your Gut

Finally, tune in to how the area makes you feel. Can you picture yourself starting your mornings here? Does it feel inspiring, comfortable, and “you”? Sometimes your intuition is the best neighborhood compass there is.

The Takeaway

Falling in love with a house is easy — but finding a neighborhood that feels like *home* is where the magic really happens. Before you make your move, take the Coffee Test and see if your future community passes the vibe check.

Because when you find the right one, you won’t just be buying a house — you’ll be buying into a lifestyle you’ll love waking up to.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Celebrating Fall Favorites Continues!

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Vector Mooncakes cartoon character of Mid Autumn Festival

Welcome to October as we continue to celebrate fall favorites as well as preparing for the arrival of our first holiday at the end of the month, Halloween!  Until then, here’s a sample of what’s happening this first weekend.

Nothing says fall like another one of Chicago’s premier Oktoberfest street festivals.  That’s right, Oktoberfest on Division Street will transform Division Street from State and Dearborn Streets into a lively Bavarian block party this Saturday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.).  So, get your lederhosen and dirndls back on for some authentic Oktoberfest beer selections; delicious food offerings; a main stage with live music performances; DJs spinning Oktoberfest favorites as well as party hits; partake in classic German-inspired games and contests that include stein holding competitions, German musical chairs, and German word pronunciation challenges (good luck with this one), and more.  This festive celebration certainly brings the spirit of Germany to the heart of the Gold Coast neighborhood!

Embrace the fall season at the 9th annual Lincoln Park Wine Fest this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-7 p.m.) at Jonquil Park (1001 W. Wrightwood Ave.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.  This beloved event transforms the park into a vibrant open-air market of wine and food pavilions offering wines from around the world and food from Pies of London, Taqueria Teotihuacan, and Kurtos R.  Plus, sommeliers and brand ambassadors will be on hand to assist you.  In addition, fest goers can enjoy tunes spun by a DJ and/or browse wine related craft and merchant vendors.  And don’t forget to bring your commemorative tasting glass home with you!

Join in on a celebration of the full moon and family reunion at this year’s Chinatown Moon Festival this Saturday (3 p.m.-9 p.m.) at the Chinatown Square Plaza located at 2130 South Archer Avenue.  This mid-autumn festival features colorful lantern displays lighting up the Square; live performances of music, dance, and martial arts; indulge in delicious mooncakes while learning about their symbolism; raise a glass of fragrant chrysanthemum flower wine which is a beverage steeped in tradition and culture; and enjoy the thrilling K-Pop Competition.  Bring your family and friends to enjoy a vibrant evening of tradition and joy.  It’s an experience not to be missed!

One of our many family-friendly Halloween events will take place daily during regular hours from October 4 to November 2 at the WNDR Museum (1130 W. Monroe St.) in the West Loop with their annual Pumpkin Lights & Playful Frights.  Come celebrate fall fun as the museum transforms into a bright and colorful wonderland featuring over 150 illuminated glowing pumpkins; themed trails such as the Pumpkin Path where costumed visitors can collect treats; a Pumpkin Patch workshop to decorate your own pumpkin tote; and more.  But beware, there are no scares here only treats!  In addition, this event also offers immersive art with a spooky twist, interactive experiences, and photo opportunities as well.  Plus, a special, after-hours experience happens on select evenings every weekend with the WNDR Mystery at the Museum: Masquerade Heist.  I’ve been informed that only the sharpest minds will solve the crime before the night is over!  Really?

Don’t miss the frightful fun at Boo! At the Zoo from October 4 through October 31 (10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays & 10 a.m.-6 p.m. weekends) at Brookfield Zoo (3300 Golf Rd.) in Brookfield.  Once again, this event is packed with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations, and plenty of fun for all ages.  Enjoy Halloween-themed food and drink, trick-or-treating in select retail locations, and visit your favorite animals.  Get ready to have a fang-tastic time!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: Free Museum Days in October

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Museum of Science and Industry stock photo

Welcome to October, and the days of Fall festivals, cooler temperatures, bonfires and Halloween! It’s also a month of free days at Chicago’s world famous museums. 

🎃 🍁 🍂 

Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Illinois residents can enjoy free admission (with proof of residency) every Wednesday from 4pm to 10 pm.  Wednesday tickets include entry to the museum at one of the designated entry times, 4pm or 7pm (last admission 9pm). You may enter anytime after your chosen entry time, and up to the next designated entry time.

NOTE: Admission is always free for Illinois teachers.  

Make sure to book online and in advance by clicking here.

Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark Street. Explore both Chicago and American history at their upcoming Illinois resident FREE days on Wednesday, October 8, 13, and 25. 

Throughout the year, admission is always free for active-duty military and active-duty Chicago police and firefighters, Illinois teachers, Illinois residents under age 18, and all children under 12. For tickets, click here. 

TheDuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, 740 E. 56th Place,  offers free entry on select dates and for certain groups.

There’s free admission for all every Wednesday.

AND…Admission is always free for military and first responders, University of Chicago students, Chicago Park District employees, Illinois public school students, and other groups. For tickets and information, click here.

The Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Free admission for Illinois residents is Every Wednesday from 9am-5pm. In October, you can beat the mid-week blues and come visit SUE, on the 8, 15, 22 and 29. Guests need to show proof of residency for an enriching experience that spans over a century. 

Note: All free general admission exhibitions include Evolving Planet, The Ancient Americas, and Inside Ancient Egypt. For tickets and information, click here.

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. MSI has multiple free dates in October, including the 6 – 8, 14, 15. The largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, as Do312.com notes,  offers Illinois residents free museum entry with valid proof of residency, bringing science to life for children and adults. 

Pricing is applied at checkout. For tickets and reservations, click here.

Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Avenue. Every Tuesday Evening from 5pm to 9pm, year-round, the iconic Streeterville institution is the essence of contemporary art.  The museum is also free for anyone 18 and under on any day of the week.

For information, click here.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive. Every Thursday is free for Illinois residents at this Lincoln Park destination for nature enthusiasts and families seeking to connect with the diverse ecology of Chicago and beyond. Suggested donations are $10 on free days. For tickets and information, click here. 

The Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, offers Illinois residents free access to all permanent exhibits on select dates throughout the year. In October, you can enjoy free Tuesday evenings from 5pm-9pm on the 7th, 14, 21, and 28.

Illinois Resident Free Hours include access to all exhibits and seasonal Stingray Touch.

Admission is always free for Chicago police officers and firefighters, active-duty U.S. military personnel, and educators from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

PLEASE NOTE: There is a $5 convenience fee per order for Free Hours reservations made online. 

HOWEVER, you can reserve tickets by phone with no convenience fee by calling 312-939-2438. 

Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark Street, in the heart of Andersonville. The “Little Sweden” of Chicago has free admission every second Tuesday of the month throughout the year, and Children aged 1 year or younger are admitted free every day they are open. Their current exhibit, We Are America, explores Swedish immigration to Chicago. There are environmental displays such as the deck of a steamship, a 19th century Swedish stuga (cottage), an early 20th century Swedish-American woodshop, and a mid-century Swedish-American kitchen. 

If you plan on visiting with a group of 10 or more, it is highly recommended that you contact the museum so that they can accommodate you for a guided or self-guided tour.  For more information, click here. 

And a reminder…though not a museum, the Lincoln Park Zoo, 2400 N. Cannon Drive, offers free admission 365 days a year. Discover fascinating wildlife, make unforgettable memories, and embrace the thrill of the wild.  

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Celebrating Tavern-Style Pizza and other fresh, healthy delights at Candelite in Rogers Park

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homemade sliced pizza on wooden cutting board

When I lived in Rogers Park, one of our go-to places was Candelite on Western Avenue. What always drew us to the location was their garishly 50’s-style neon sign, illuminated with a welcoming martini topped with an olive!  There were all kinds of personalized messages on the marquee below as well. 

Candelite is celebrating 75 years of bringing Tavern-Style Pizza and other delights to this far north end of Chicago, serving up some of the best cracker-thin crust pies in the city since 1950.

But for those in the know in Rogers Park, they’re so much more!!

As the catering partner for Northwestern University over the border in Evanston, their hearty, fresh comfort food would grace any training table or tailgate party. Take, for example, their Tailgate Beef Chili isslow-cooked ground beef chili, served in tomato-ey goodness with shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro and oyster crackers. Southern Fried Pickles are crispy, fried dill pickles slices served with a spicy aioli dipping sauce. I love their Parmesan Fries, coated with Parmesan cheese, cilantro, and served with marinara dipping sauce. I usually can’t decide between those and the healthier Veggie Hummus Plate, with roasted red pepper hummus, fresh vegetables and grilled pita bread. I’m also fond of their Chicken Quesadillas, a mix of grilled chicken, roasted red peppers, cilantro, pepper jack cheese,  served with sour cream and salsa on the side. 

For lighter appetites, you’ll also like their Candlelite Mini Wedge Salad, with iceberg lettuce, bacon, egg, tomato, blue cheese crumbles, and covered in onion straws and served with side of creamy garlic dressing. You can add grilled chicken or salmon for an upcharge. 

They were smart to partner with local meat  savant Hecky’s for their Pulled Pork Sandwich, which features Hecky’s BBQ slow-cooked pork, topped with onion straws on a brioche bun and served with cole slaw & Hecky’s BBQ sauce.  Their Candlelite Pub Burger comes with lettuce, tomato, onion straws, on a brioche bun, with your choice of American, Merkt’s Cheddar, Blue Cheese, Cheddar, Provolone, Feta, Swiss, Pepper Jack or Mozzarella cheese. 

And Candelite leaves it up to you whether you want your side with their sandwiches healthy or not, with a choice of fries, tots, broccoli, or  sauteed spinach. I’d recommend the sauteed spinach because it’s a fairly unique option among Chicago restaurants.

And now …Tavern-Style Pizza 

Candelite’s “Famous Cracker Thin Crust Signature Pizzas” are named so because they have both a thin crust firm enough to have a noticeable crunch and slices cut into squares, as opposed to wedges. Toppings run straight over the sides instead of stopping at the crust, which is my favorite part!

According to one narrative from Wikipedia sources, the pizza’s signature square slices were created so that a customer could hold that in one hand and a beer in the other. Another theory is that they made it possible for taverns without plates to instead set the pizza on napkins.

I’d still use a plate if I were you! 

Candelite serves quite a range of pizzas, including a full White Pizza menu. While you can create your own, there’s lots of unique options, including Sweet Soppressata, a red pizza with pizza sauce, soppressata (coarse salami,) basil, and Mike’s hot honey.  Taco Pizza features a roasted red pepper sauce and is covered in black beans, corn, tortilla strips, pepper jack, cheddar, chopped mixed greens, and mozzarella, topped with ranch drizzle and served with a side of salsa. The Angry Hawaiian has Buffalo sauce, Canadian bacon, pineapple, and fresh jalapenos. 

White pizzas include the BLT, with a buttermilk ranch base, bacon, tomatoes, and mixed greens tossed in red wine vinaigrette, and the Candlelite White with olive oil, whole roasted garlic, caramelized onions, fresh mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, and goat cheese. Popeye Pesto has basil pesto, baby spinach, and mozzarella.

Don’t forget dessert!

Desserts are ooey and gooey, and include the Fundae Sundae, two luscious scoops Homer’s vanilla ice cream, and whipped cream, with your choice of chocolate or caramel sauce (both for a nickel upcharge,) and your choice of M&M’s or sprinkles (both for a nickel upcharge.) Candlelite Cookie Skillet is a big chocolate chip cookie, with Homer’s vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel and chocolate sauce.

Candelite is located at 7452 N. Western Avenue. They are open Monday – Thursday, 5pm – 10pm, Friday from 4pm – 1am, Saturday from 11am – 1am, and Sunday from 11am – 10pm. For more information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 6 Household Storage Mistakes and How to Fix Them

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Womans hand taking out a roll of paper towel from the kitchen cabinet

I ran across this list a few days ago from a professional organizer. These are items that we all have around the house but don’t always know whether we are storing them properly. In most cases improper storage doesn’t mean much more than reducing the quality of an item, but with some things it can be downright dangerous. So here are a few tips:

Batteries are something that most of us throw into the junk drawer and never give another thought. Batteries can leak or short-circuit if they are stored with random metal objects like keys, paperclips or coins. Storing them near heat can be hazardous. Batteries should not touch each other’s top or bottom either. Use drawer inserts to store batteries standing up or use the original container. Keep different sizes separate also. 

Flammable liquids we might not realize we have around the house and garage include pesticides, paint and many cleaning products. They all need to be in a well- ventilated area so gases cannot collect. Proper storage in the home can prevent cross contamination and disastrous results. Bleach and hydrogen peroxide can cause flammable chemicals to explode if stored too closely. So, keep drain cleaners, pesticides and other flammable chemicals away in a cool dry area with good ventilation. 

Family photos are precious and irreplaceable. But we often store them in the attic where it is way to warm and moist causing photos to warp, curl, or stick to other images. Keep photos in a cool area and use archival boxes. Use sleeves designed to prevent yellowing and deterioration. Store in closets, under beds or cabinets away from heaters and vents. It’s a good move to digitize old photos too. 

Paper goods we stock up on at Costco or other stores sometimes end up in the garage or basement. This can lead to them being ruined by pests or moisture. Use plastic totes to protect paper products from critters, dust, moisture and mold if you need to store them in the garage and basement. 

Pet food when stored improperly doesn’t just go stale, it can attract ants, moths, or even mice. Consider using sealed containers to keep your pet’s food fresh and pests out. If you buy in bulk a wheeled bin can hold a large amount and stored in a pantry or laundry room.

Produce is another storage problem. Don’t store onions and potatoes together. They each produce moisture and gases that speed spoilage. You want to keep fruits and vegetables apart as some emit ethylene gas and some are ethylene sensitive and will spoil quickly. So basically keep fruits that emit ethylene away from vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, peppers and broccoli, that are sensitive to ethylene. Remember tomatoes are fruits! Use breathable bags, baskets or bins and keep them separated. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Should You Sell Your Home As-Is or Invest in Repairs?

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Man with laptop and paint swatches to select a new color

When it’s time to sell, one of the biggest questions homeowners face is: “Do I put money into fixing my home, or sell it just the way it is?” The answer isn’t always simple—it depends on your goals, the market, and the condition of your property. Let’s break down both options so you can make the best decision for your situation.

Selling As-Is: The Pros and Cons

The Benefits:

  • Saves Time and Effort – If you’re looking to sell quickly, listing your home without updates gets you to the market faster.
  • Lower Upfront Costs – No need to spend thousands on upgrades or repairs.
  • Attracts Investors – Many buyers are looking for fixer-uppers or investment opportunities.

The Trade-Offs:

  • Lower Sale Price – Homes sold as-is typically sell for less since buyers factor repair costs into their offer.
  • Smaller Buyer Pool – Many traditional buyers prefer move-in ready homes and may pass on a property that needs work.

Investing in Repairs: When It Makes Sense

The Benefits:

  • Higher Sale Price – Even minor updates (like fresh paint, new fixtures, or landscaping) can significantly increase your home’s value.
  • Broader Appeal – Move-in ready homes attract more buyers, often leading to quicker sales.
  • Potential for Multiple Offers – A well-presented home can create competition among buyers.

The Considerations:

  • Upfront Costs – Repairs, renovations, or staging require an investment, and not every update will pay off.
  • Time to Market – Depending on the scope of work, repairs can delay your listing timeline.

How to Decide

  1. Evaluate Your Home’s Condition – Are there major issues (like a roof replacement) or just cosmetic updates (like paint and flooring)?
  2. Know Your Market – In a hot seller’s market, you may get strong offers even without repairs. In a slower market, updates can give you a competitive edge.
  3. Consider Your Budget and Timeline – If you have the resources and time, strategic updates can yield a strong return. If not, pricing your home correctly as-is may be the smarter move.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—whether you should sell your home as-is or invest in repairs depends on your personal goals, market conditions, and the current state of your property. The best way to decide is to consult with a trusted real estate professional who can help you weigh your options, run the numbers, and choose the path that maximizes your outcome.