Neighborhood News: 🍁 Falling forward with Museum Free Days in September!

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Brachiosaurus in a Chicago Blackhawks jersey at the Field Museum stock photo

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures cool (finally?) in September, Chicago’s iconic museums will still welcome you FREE!  

We at Dean’s Team Chicago, with the help of Choose Chicago, have compiled a list of this month ‘s free days for you and your family:

The Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Illinois residents can enjoy free admission (with proof of residency) on the following days:

  • Tuesday, September 8
  • Wednesday, September 9
  • Thursday, September 10
  • Monday, September 14 
  • Tuesday, September 15
  • Wednesday, September 16 

Note: Admission is always free for Illinois teachers.  Make sure to book online and in advance by clicking here.  

In Chicago’s Loop is the American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan Avenue, 2nd Floor, where you and your family can enjoy free admission on the third Sunday of each month. On these days, the museum is open from 10am to 5pm. 

Access to all exhibits are included on free museum days. Prior registration is not required, but recommended. For more information, click here. 

In the Loop, The Art Institute of Chicago,  111 S. Michigan Avenue, sponsors Free Summer Thursdays from 5pm to 8pm.  September dates include:

  • Thursday, September 3
  • Thursday,  September 10
  • Thursday,  September 17

Additionally, they offer free admission every day for Chicago teens under age 18, all children under age 14, Link and WIC cardholders, active-duty military, and Illinois educators. To reserve tickets, click here.  

The Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark Street, in Lincoln Park offers free admission on select days. Visit exhibits like Aquí en Chicago, tracing the lives of Latino/a/e communities. Upcoming free admission days are:

  • Monday, September 7 (Labor Day)
  • Thursday, September 24 

Admission is always free for active duty military and veterans, active duty Chicago police and firefighters, Illinois teachers, Illinois residents under age 18, and all children under 12. For tickets, click here. 

Washington Park’s DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, 740 E. 56th Place,  there’s free admission for all every Wednesday.

Note: 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. 

At the Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive,  every Wednesday throughout 2026 is free. 

Free tickets are available for advance reservation online and on site. The free tickets include all general admission exhibitions. Present a current Illinois driver’s license, State ID, or Chicago CityKey card at the ticket desk to establish proof of residency. For tickets and information, click here.

Note: Illinois teachers and active military personnel receive free general admission year-round.

In Hyde Park, at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry,  5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, September Free Days include:

  • Tuesday, September 8
  • Wednesday, September 9
  • Thursday, September 10
  • Tuesday, September 15
  • Wednesday, September 16
  • Sunday, September 20
  • Monday, September 21
  • Tuesday, September 22
  • Wednesday, September 23
  • Sunday, September 27
  • Monday, September 28
  • Tuesday, September 29
  • Wednesday, September 30

Note: Admission is always free for United States military active-duty personnel and veterans, Illinois POWs, Chicago firefighters & Chicago police officers, Illinois teachers (Pre-K through 12th grade), United States military active-duty personnel and veterans. For information and reservations, click here. 

Streeterville’s Museum of Contemporary Art,  220 E. Chicago Avenue, reserves every Tuesday from 5pm – 9pm for Illinois residents to receive free admission.

Note: The museum is always free for visitors under age 18, visitors with disabilities and their caregivers, active members of the military, police, and fire departments, veterans and their families, and Illinois elementary and high school teachers. 

And …If it’s not Tuesday evening, MCA has a pay-what-you-can policy — no one will be turned away.

InLincolnPark, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum 2430 N. Cannon Drive, has the following Resident Days:

  • Tuesday, September 8
  • Wednesday, September 9
  • Thursday, September 10
  • Wednesday, September 11
  • Monday, September 14
  • Tuesday, September 15
  • Wednesday, September 16
  • Thursday, September 17
  • Friday, September 18 
  • Monday, September 21
  • Tuesday, September 22
  • Wednesday, September 23
  • Thursday, September 24
  • Friday, September 25
  • Monday, September 28
  • Tuesday, September 29
  • Wednesday, September 30

Illinois residents can reserve their free tickets online or in person. 

At the Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, admission is always free for Chicago police officers and firefighters, active-duty U.S. military personnel, and educators from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

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. 

Andersonville’s Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark Street, has free admission every second Tuesday of the month throughout the year, and children aged 1 year or younger are admitted free every day. 

ALSO…The Main Gallery and Store will be open until 7 p.m. the last Friday of the month through September. Free admission after 4 p.m.

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. 

There are many more museums with free admission every day! For a complete list, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: West Town’s Provaré pushes boundaries with Creole-Italian Fare, Speakeasy

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Creamy Lobster Pasta stock photo

It’s hard to imagine a more interesting combination than Italian-Creole, but when the Michelin Guide lists you, it means you’re doing things right, doesn’t it?

Chef and owner Jourdan Higgs, from my hometown of Oak Park, Illinois, is the force behind West Town’s Provaré, which celebrates five years this month. Higgs is unique in many ways, including that he is, essentially  a self-taught chef. He didn’t attend culinary school, but learned how to cook from his parents. 

Forbes asked Higgs how he imagined the Creole-Italian concept. “I was a big fan of making pasta dishes growing up,” he told Forbes. “Additionally my parents would also make a number of different pastas. Then when I started traveling to New Orleans and getting introduced to different spices and seasonings I knew I wanted to blend the two together. Then to bring in the concept of making our own pasta fresh in-house and sauces to order.” 

He told Appetito,  “I started cooking for my friends and schoolmates while attending Northern Illinois University,” Higgs says. His Sicilian background, interest in Southern cooking, and hours spent learning techniques on YouTube shaped a style that now defines the restaurant. Chicago certainly embraces its uniqueness.”

Higgs is true to his concept. For example, WOULD YOU BELIEVE…Fried Calamari, with banana peppers, jalapeños, red onion, marinara, and sweet heat aioli? Or Crabby Fries which are waffle fries with pepper jack cheese, fresh crab meat, pico de gallo, and scallion aioli. 

Entrees include Lobster Bisque Pasta, colorful and packed with sun-dried tomatoes, creamy lobster bisque sauce, grilled lobster tails, lobster meat, and fettuccine noodles. 

One much-praised entrée is their Seafood Trio, with Higgs’ signature Cajun ‘trio spice’ alfredo, shrimp, lobster, and crab meat in rotini noodles. Shrimp Cognac Scampi is an incomparable mix of cognac cream sauce, Fresno chilis, shrimp, and mafaldine noodles. Provaré Royale Tower has lobster tails, king crab legs, jumbo shrimp, and fries covered in a seafood cream sauce. 

Lest you think that Provaré is seafood-only, they offer Steak Frites, a 12-ounce boneless ribeye served with garlic parmesan fries. Lamb Chops have four large chops, served with spicy house corn. Their Smash Burger combines beef patties, American cheese, lobster claws, pickles, and sweet heat aioli, served with garlic parmesan fries. 

It takes a great imagination to think of pairing lobster claws with beef patties, so kudos to Chef! 

There is only one dessert served at Provaré, but in this case, Butter Cake may be all you need, especially when it’s served warm with vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, and a strawberry. 

Provaré is located at 1523 W. Chicago Avenue. Reservations are available up to 21 days in advance, with each new date becoming available at 9am. They also welcome walk-ins at the bar, where they serve the full menu. Each reservation has a 15-minute grace period and a 90 minute table time. 

Note: You and your party must be 21+. And they have a dress code. No caps, athletic wear or revealing clothing allowed. They also reserve the right to decline service.

For reservations, click here. 

Privé Speakeasy 

After dinner, entertainment is just steps away, down a flight of stairs to Provaré’s basement…a dark, intimate room that hides one of Chicago’s best hidden speakeasies. 

Privé, meaning private, ensures all guests have an intimate, sexy setting, with Love Jones Thursdays as the ultimate R&B party. DJ Kid Clay and local Chicago DJs mix classic remixes with the latest hits, setting the perfect tone to kick off your weekend. 

The party starts at 7pm and goes until midnight. Along the way, you can enjoy some of Provarés’ best dishes, including Fried Lobster Tails with garlic herb butter and sweet heat aioli. Spinach & Artichoke Dip is topped with shrimp and crawfish, and served with garlic bread. Salmon Egg Rolls combines fresh salmon, corn, herbs, cream sauce, and mozzarella cheese with chipotle aioli.

And as their website warns, reservations are limited to 4 guests. They are open Thursday from 7pm– midnight, and Friday – Saturday, 6pm – midnight. They also had a separate reservation system, and you can reserve your place at the 21+ club by clicking here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 6 ways to keep sharp and active as you age

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Group of senior people doing training outdoors stock photo

We need to support our bodies and our brains as we age by doing meaningful physical and mental exercises. Here are a few daily habits that dementia and Alzheimer’s specialists recommend the most:

Get a good night’s sleep. This is essential in protecting cognitive function. While you sleep, your brain consolidates memories and cleans out metabolic waste that accumulates during the day. 7-8 hours of good sleep is recommended, but it’s even more important to wake up feeling rested. 

Prepare yourself for rest. Have a sleep routine every night to calm your nervous system before bed. Limit screen time or completely put the electronics away. Play some soothing music. Meditation is also recommended to lower stress and cortisol. It can increase blood flow along with improving memory and attention. 

Practice a healthy diet. Eat foods that support heart health and reduce inflammation as this supports cognitive functioning. A Mediterranean diet that emphasizes plant-based foods and limits animal products and foods high in saturated fats is best. If possible, try to choose whole foods over highly processed foods. Staying hydrated is also very important!

Train your brain. Keep your mind actively engaged. Choose activities that challenge your mind-like reading, solving puzzles, learning a new skill or learning a new language. These support cognitive reserve and support neural pathways. This helps your brain compensate for age-related changes by using alternative neural pathways. 

Keep moving. Exercise improves blood flow to the brain to release proteins that promote neuron growth and communication. Strength training can improve mobility, balance and metabolic health. Whatever time of year, pairing exercise with time outside soaking up natural light can improve mood and energy. 

Stay socially connected. Humans are inherently social creatures, and this is even more important as we age. Connecting with others reduces depression and loneliness that can lead to cognitive decline. Take a class, join volunteer or support groups, or exploring programs at your local community center can support your cognitive health as you age. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Good Taste Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune

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Natural-toned interior with rustic vase, textured pillows, and cozy lounge chair in a calm neutral setting stock photo

You don’t need a designer budget to create a home that looks polished, inviting, and completely your own. Sometimes the most stylish choices are the ones that cost the least.

There’s a common misconception about beautiful homes: that they require beautiful budgets.

We see perfectly styled rooms in magazines and online and assume the secret is expensive furniture, designer accessories, custom everything, and a shopping cart that makes the credit card nervous.

But walk into enough well-designed homes and you start to notice something interesting.

The most memorable spaces aren’t necessarily the most expensive ones.

They’re the ones that feel intentional.

Good taste has surprisingly little to do with how much something costs. It has much more to do with knowing what to choose, what to skip, and when to stop.

Start With Less

One of the easiest ways to make a room feel more sophisticated is also one of the least expensive: remove something.

Too many accessories, too much furniture, too many competing colors, and too many things fighting for attention can make even an expensive room feel chaotic.

Instead, give your favorite pieces some breathing room.

A beautiful lamp doesn’t need five other objects sitting next to it. A piece of artwork doesn’t need an entire wall covered around it. And your coffee table probably doesn’t need to double as a bookstore, flower shop, and storage unit.

Sometimes the upgrade isn’t adding something.

It’s editing.

Spend Where It Matters

A limited budget doesn’t mean you should buy the cheapest version of everything. It means you should be selective about where your money goes.

Think about the things you interact with every day.

A comfortable sofa. A dining table you’ll use for years. A good mattress. A light fixture that completely changes the mood of a room.

These are areas where quality can make a noticeable difference.

Then look for opportunities to save on things that are easier to change: decorative accessories, accent pieces, artwork, pillows, and smaller furnishings.

The goal isn’t to make everything expensive.

It’s to make everything feel considered.

Texture Can Make a Room Look Expensive

Here’s one of the easiest tricks in the decorating playbook: layer texture.

A room filled with one material or finish can feel flat, even when the pieces themselves are beautiful. Mixing wood, linen, metal, glass, woven materials, ceramics, and soft textiles creates visual depth.

And texture doesn’t necessarily require a major investment.

A chunky throw. A woven basket. A vintage wood stool. Linen-look curtains. A ceramic vase. A simple rug.

Small additions can make a room feel warmer and more collected without requiring a complete makeover.

Lighting Is the Secret Weapon

You can have gorgeous furniture and still have a room that feels completely wrong if the lighting is harsh.

Good lighting changes everything.

Instead of relying exclusively on overhead fixtures, try creating layers with table lamps, floor lamps, sconces, and softer bulbs. The result is often warmer, more flattering, and much more inviting.

And sometimes the most affordable lighting upgrade is simply changing the bulbs.

A room doesn’t need to be brighter.

It needs to feel better.

Don’t Underestimate Paint

Few things can change the personality of a room as dramatically as paint.

A fresh coat can make a tired space feel clean and intentional, while the right color can highlight architectural details or create a completely different mood.

And you don’t necessarily need to repaint the entire house.

An entryway, powder room, home office, or accent wall can be enough to create a noticeable transformation.

The trick is choosing a color because it works with your home—not simply because it’s trending.

Mix High and Low

Here’s where things get interesting.

A room doesn’t have to come entirely from one store, one collection, or one price point.

In fact, that’s often what makes a room feel generic.

Mix something vintage with something new. Pair an inexpensive vase with a beautiful piece of artwork. Put a thrifted chair next to a modern sofa. Add a meaningful family piece to an otherwise contemporary room.

Those contrasts give a home personality.

And personality is something money can’t buy.

The Art of the Secondhand Find

Some of the best-looking pieces in a home aren’t new at all.

Thrift stores, estate sales, vintage shops, flea markets, and online resale marketplaces can be treasure troves for furniture and accessories with character.

A slightly worn wooden table may have more personality than a brand-new mass-produced one. An old frame can become a statement piece. A vintage mirror can instantly give an entryway more presence.

The secret is patience.

Don’t shop with the mindset of I need something to fill this corner.

Shop with the mindset of I’ll know it when I see it.

Make Your Home Look Like You

Perhaps the biggest mistake people make when decorating is trying too hard to recreate someone else’s home.

A beautiful house doesn’t have to look like a showroom.

Your favorite books, photographs, artwork, travel finds, inherited furniture, collections, and even the slightly imperfect things can make a space feel authentic.

The goal isn’t perfection.

It’s creating a home that tells a story.

That might mean your grandmother’s side table next to a modern sofa. It might mean displaying a collection you’ve been building for years. It might mean choosing a strange little piece of art simply because it makes you smile.

Those are the details people remember.

Before You Buy, Rearrange

Here’s perhaps the most underrated decorating trick of all:

Shop your own house.

Move the chair from the bedroom into the living room. Try the artwork on another wall. Swap lamps between rooms. Bring an outdoor planter inside. Pull something out of storage that you’ve forgotten about.

You may be surprised by what you already own.

Sometimes a room doesn’t need more.

It just needs a different perspective.

Good Taste Is Really About Intention

The homes that feel the most sophisticated usually aren’t the ones shouting the loudest.

They’re the ones where everything seems to have a reason for being there.

The colors work together. The furniture fits the room. There is enough empty space to breathe. The lighting creates atmosphere. The accessories feel personal rather than random.

And none of that requires a fortune.

You can create a beautiful home one thoughtful decision at a time.

Because ultimately, good taste isn’t about having more money.

It’s about knowing what deserves your money—and what doesn’t.

And sometimes, the most stylish thing you can do is simply buy less, choose better, and make what you already have count.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Celebration of Summer Continues!

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Kawaii panda eating chinese noodles stock illustration

The school year has started, it’s the last weekend in August, and the fall season is on the horizon but here in Chicago we haven’t given up on summer as we continue celebrating the season with food and music festivals this weekend!

Are you ready to eat, explore and celebrate one of the country’s largest outdoor Asian food festivals?  If you are then head on over to the Panda Fest this Saturday (10 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-8 p.m.) at Butler Field (445 E. Monroe St.) in the Loop.  It’s a vibrant experience bringing together incredible flavors, art and cultural traditions of Asia with over 200 Asian street-food dishes from 100+ food vendors; unique finds from more than 40 merchandise vendors; live cultural performances; and plenty of panda-themed fun including a 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce house, and panda related merchandise.  Enjoy an unforgettable, fun summer day in the heart of Chicago!

Enjoy plenty of Old-World charm at the 36th annual Taste of Greektown this Saturday and Sunday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) on Halsted Street from Van Buren to Adams Street in the vibrant West Loop neighborhood as Greektown celebrates its Hellenic culture and pride.  Indulge in a culinary journey of mouthwatering authentic cuisine as you savor the best of Mediterranean flavors and spirited drinks from the neighborhood’s local restaurants.  In addition, live music from traditional Greek bands and performances of Greek dancing along with retail shopping, local vendor booths, and family-friendly games are on the menu as well.  This festival is a must-visit for foodies and culture lovers alike — OPA!

Since the Chicago Cubs have been in the National League franchise since 1876, they will be hosting this Saturday (1:00 p.m.) at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood a Cubs 150th Anniversary Celebration honoring the players, people, places, traditions and fans that have defined Cubs baseball.  Special events include:  dedication of a new Founders’ Clock at the corner of Clark and Addison Streets featuring historic Cubs logos and inscriptions highlighting four eras of franchise history; the recognition of the Cubs 150th Anniversary Team recognizing the complete roster of 40 members with over 20 members in attendance; a ceremonial signing of a replica 1876 championship banner at Gallagher Way which will be available for fans to sign and displayed at the ballpark; and more.  Then at 1:20 p.m., the Cubs will be hosting the Cincinnati Reds!

After three days of festivities celebrating Chicago’s global impact as the birthplace of House music, the Chicago House Music Festival & Conference will be wrapping up this Saturday (1 p.m.-9 p.m.) and Sunday (1 p.m.-5 p.m.) with relaxed sessions of music and more.  Saturday’s events will take place at Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.) in the Loop at the Pritzker Pavilion, the North and South Promenades, and the Millennium Hall Double Clutch Beer Garden with Sunday’s closing celebration taking place at the west end of the Chicago Riverwalk (306-370 W. Wacker Dr.) – be sure to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the scenic views of The Confluence, where the Main, North and South Branches of the Chicago River meet!

It’s time to rock out on Broadway Avenue between Thorndale and Ardmore Avenues for the 2nd annual Edgewater Music Fest this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) for one of Chicago’s coolest street fests.  This year’s Fest features more than 30 music acts; over 100 retail and artisan vendors for the largest street vendor market in Edgewater’s history; local food and breweries; a Kids Zone with hands-on activities and games (12 p.m.-8 p.m.); an on-site record store; a drag brunch with Hamburger Mary’s; and more!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News: The ‘Southern Gateway of Uptown’ is Historic Buena Park

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boho style for fashionable look at resort stock photo

Bounded by Graceland Cemetery, Marine Drive, Irving Park Road, and  Montrose Avenue, Buena Park is adjacent to Lake Michigan and nestled between Wrigleyville and Montrose Park. Most importantly, for families, the cozy, tree-lined streets are filled with the city’s most beautiful homes and architecture and is adjacent to Montrose Beach and Montrose Harbor.

Note: Montrose Dog-friendly Area, 4697 Lawrence, W.  Wilson Drive, is located where Wilson Avenue reaches east almost to Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois. Visitors say this dog beach offers a large, clean, and fenced area for dogs to play and swim in shallow water. They also highlight the convenient on-site dog washing stations and ample parking. Guests mention the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity for dogs to socialize and exercise.

And there’s enough to keep families busy as well. The Uptown Branch of the Chicago Public Library is located at 929 W. Buena Avenue, hosting programs like August 27th’s ‘Summerween Sip & Paint’ from 4:30pm – 6pm. On September 1, they’re hosting  “Claws DIY: Nail Art and Hair Claw Clips”  from 4pm – 5:30pm.

That could be before or after you tour the Hutchinson Street Historic District, a famous tree-lined enclave known for stunning Prairie School  (think Frank Lloyd Wright) mansions and historic turn-of-the-century architecture designed by architects like George Maher.

Buena Park History 

According to Wikipedia sources, Buena Park was first developed in the 1890s. The district was originally planned to be an upper-class suburban neighborhood of Chicago with spacious homes. 

Hutchinson Street Historic District 

The two-block stretch of Hutchinson Street was a part of the parcel of land James Waller bought in 1850. This parcel was outside of the city of Chicago in an area commonly known as Lakeview, according to the Buena Park Neighbors blogsite. Later, Lakeview was incorporated as a city in 1887. Two years later (1889), Lakeview was annexed by the city of Chicago. In the ensuing years, the Waller family sold some of the Waller property for development. The lakefront properties were sold at a premium to wealthy buyers. And, German and Scandinavian farmers bought much of the inland properties.

The blogsite goes on to say that Charles Scales, a Civil War veteran, bought a parcel of land that includes present day Hutchinson Street. Scales developed his parcel with a sense of purpose. To encourage development, he installed a road down the middle of his land. He called the road Kenesaw as an homage to the battle at Kenesaw Mountain, a fight in which he was a combatant. Scales built the first house on Kenesaw Street.  Intended as a family residence, Scales hired Chicago architect George Washington Maher to design the home and it was completed in 1894. This remarkable Queen Anne style house stands today and is located 840 W Hutchinson.

Development in the early twentieth century made the neighborhood denser, and while it was still a wealthy neighborhood by 1930, it featured many apartment buildings as well. 

The district’s houses reflect Chicago’s architectural development at the turn of the century; while its nineteenth-century homes have Queen Anne and Romanesque Revival designs, its twentieth-century houses exhibit newly popular styles such as the Prairie School and Classical Revival. The district’s apartment buildings were designed in part to match the character of its houses, as doing so portrayed a sense of luxury and domesticity to its affluent residents; as a result, they largely used the same styles as the twentieth-century homes and often included courtyards to replace lawns.

A Great Place for Birdwatching!

The Magic Hedge is a migratory stop located at the most easterly part of Montrose and is home to some of the rarest birds ever recorded in the state. In addition, the Bill Jarvis Migratory Bird Sanctuary on the lakefront at Addison is an eight-acre woodland and wetland which houses over 150 species of birds, where visitors can observe the migratory swallows who make their home there in the summer.

 The striking Kwa-Ma-Rolas totem pole topped with the symbolic thunderbird representing power, protection, and strength is nearby. According to the Chicago Park District, in 1929, James L. Kraft, founder of Kraft Foods Inc., donated the Kwa-Ma-Rolas totem pole to the city of Chicago. A collector of jade and other antiquities, Kraft often traveled to Alaska and the Pacific Northwest to find and buy artifacts. On one such a trip, he found two totem poles believed to have been carved by Haida Indians. 

At its dedication in June 1929, local Native Americans danced in costume with students from Alcott School in a pageant symbolizing Kwanusila—the thunderbird—and other carved figures depicted on the forty-foot pole.

Nightlife

As Choose Chicago notes, “it feels like yesterday when I danced at the Aragon Ballroom when the Talking Heads and Elvis Costello toured. One block east on Lawrence stands this iconic Ballroom, where legendary performers like David Bowie, Janis Joplin, Ike and Tina Turner, and the Grateful Dead played to alt music enthusiasts from the sixties to the present.”

Those were the days, my friend! And they’ll never end. Live Nation keeps the spot filled with the latest bands. 

Buena Park is an elegant part of Chicago, mixed with modern. It’s definitely worth visiting and living in. For more information, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review: Dog-Friendly Restaurants Throughout the City

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Corgi sits at table in cafe, enjoys hospitality, dog-friendly and delicious food stock photo

While the weather is still balmy, there’s nothing like taking the family, including your furry members, to enjoy the sunshine and maybe, even get some treats or a full meal from our local restaurants. These establishments provide dog-friendly seating areas, cozy atmospheres, and often, a menu for your pup!

Ritual Coffeehouse, 1821 W. Irving Park Road. This unpretentious North Center café welcomes small pups and serves high-quality specialty coffee, house-made syrups, freshly prepared pastries, scones (such as orange-cranberry-pecan or jalapeño cheddar), and light breakfast items, and are known for their welcoming atmosphere. They offer small treats for canine visitors on their back patio, while a continuously playing record player spins tunes. Ritual is rare among Chicago cafes for staying open until 10pm every night.  

For those who would like something stronger than coffee, there’s the Chicago Brewhouse, 33 E. Riverwalk, at the corner of Wacker & Wabash, says that well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating areas. They serve “People Food” like Chicago’s iconic Maxwell Street Dogs, as well as Pilsen Tacos, a Lakeview Charcuterie Board with Andouille sausage, hot capicola, Genoa salami, hard salami, spicy olive salad, and  pistachio mortadella. Argyle Ave Beef Bánh Mì  is made of beef, cilantro, vegetables, cucumber, Jalapeño, and Sriracha mayo, and served with potato chips. 

A homage to the Union Stockyards, their Back of the Yards Meat Lover Sandwich has roast beef, candied beer bacon, smoked Provolone, and horseradish sauce on an onion roll, served with potato chips. Fido can have plain hot dog or whatever else they can tolerate of Chicago’s best foods.

The Perch Kitchen and Tap, 1932 W. Division Street, in Wicker Park, hasunique offerings of exclusive in-house brewed beers, wood-fired meats and veggies, and its own Doggy Menu, featuring a drink of Hefe-woof-zen, with chicken stock and organic molasses, Biscuits To Go comein a bag of five, and made with spent grains, peanut butter, flour, and egg.Fido could also have his/her own Scruffy Scramble, with eggs, broccoli, and chicken, (available only during brunch).

“People food” offerings include starters like Cheese Curds with tempura-battered curds, pickled vegetables, and giardiniera aioli. Lobster Deviled Eggs has three halves loaded with lobster and sriracha mayo. Filet Sliders are rich with mayo, blue cheese, and candied red onions. 

Entrees include Bang Bang Steak Salad with Hawaiian-marinated strip steak, arugula, mango, avocado, peanuts, chow mein, in a firecracker dressing, Lumache con Pesto has shell pasta, pistachio pesto, marinated tomatoes, and stracciatella cheese.  Reservations are recommended by clicking here. 

Logan Square’s Park & Field,  3509 W. Fullerton Avenue, also serves a dog -friendly menu, including a Pooch Patty, a single beef burger patty, the Bird Dog, a grilled chicken breast, and for dessert, a Perfect Pup Cup of housemade mix of yogurt, bananas, and peanut butter. 

Their “People Food” menu starts with Skirt Steak Chili, with steak, porter,  Anaheim chiles, black beans, and queso fresco. Pretzel & Cheese is a warm pretzel twist with whipped cheddar dip.  

Entrees include a Salmon Poke Bowl with sushi salmon, rice, edamame, ginger, sriracha aioli, nori, and sesame seeds. Vegans will enjoy their Farmer’s Hash, with purple Viking potatoes,  torpedo onions,  carrots, broccoli, kale, and mushroom-ginger glaze.  On a double tortilla, Tacos de Carnitas are made with cilantro, onions, pickled jalapeños, and salsa verde. Lighter appetites will enjoy a gluten-free Elote Salad with corn, romaine lettuce, tortilla strips, pico de gallo, cotija cheese, and lime ranch dressing. Or, the California Salad with local greens,  dates,  raisins, carrots, cucumbers, goat cheese, and candied walnuts with mustard-walnut dressing.  For reservations, click here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 7 ways to enjoy your tomatoes

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Flat lay composition of tasty galette with tomato and cheese (Caprese galette) on light textured table

Tomatoes are so versatile with their sweet savory taste! If you’re looking for ideas, here are some perhaps new ways to prepare tomatoes or different things to pair them with. 

Pair with other fruits. Botanically, tomatoes are considered a fruit. They can be wonderful when used in fruity applications. Melons and soft fruits like peaches and plums bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes and give the fruit an acidic zing. 

Sprinkle with lemon juice. Tomatoes are often dressed with different vinegars but these may overpower the tomato flavor. Try using lemon juice instead. It is a gentler acid that enhances the brightness of the tomatoes and doesn’t overshadow. 

Get the right size. Size does matter both in what you buy and how you cut them. Tomatoes like cherries, grape or Sungolds are more consistently sweet as they have less water. They also maintain their shape when marinated or cooked. Keep large tomatoes chunky, fat wedges or two-inch chunks so they stay intact for that best juicy bite. 

Pair tomatoes with dairy. They balance each other beautifully! When their acid and fat, plus sweet and tang meet up, it creates something wonderful. Most cheese will work, whether milky like mozzarella or burrata, or nuttier parmesan or cheddar. Who doesn’t love a simple bowl of tomato chunks and cottage cheese?

Eat with chili crisp. This delicious condiment is made from simmering chili peppers, garlic and shallots in hot oil. It retains crunchy bits to provide its signature bite. The best store brand I’ve had is “Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp”. Salt cut your tomatoes and let them sit so the juices accumulate. Drizzle with chili crisp and be ready to lick the bowl. 

Grate them. Grating tomatoes brings out all their flavor while getting rid of those tough skins. Halve a large tomato through the middle. Then grate on the large holes of a box grater into a bowl. It’s delicious just on its own but it’s even better with salt and lemon juice. Cook quickly with onions and garlic softened in extra virgin olive oil, add oregano, salt and pepper for a wonderful fresh sauce that’s delicious with toasty bread or pasta. 

Bake them. Baking tomatoes gets rid of moisture and makes them more savory and silkier. Bake them with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil. This drives off the water and concentrates the tomato flavor. At low temperatures, the fruit’s sugars won’t burn, they’ll caramelize and get sweeter and sticky. Delicious with crusty bread and salad!

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Are We Headed for a Buyer’s Market—or Is That Just Wishful Thinking?

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happy home buyers in new home stock photo

For years, buying a home has felt like trying to win a game designed for someone else.

Prices climbed. Mortgage rates stayed stubbornly high. Inventory was painfully tight. And in many markets, buyers had to move fast—and sometimes bid aggressively—just to get a foot in the door.

Now, the balance is starting to shift.

As summer 2026 winds down, buyers have more homes to choose from, more time to make decisions and, in many markets, more negotiating power than they’ve had in years. Active inventory has climbed to its highest level since late 2019, and nearly 80% of major U.S. metros are now classified as buyer’s markets by Redfin.

So, are we finally entering a buyer’s market?

In many places, yes. But nationally, the answer is more complicated.

The pendulum is starting to swing

The clearest sign of change is inventory.

According to Realtor.com, active inventory reached nearly 1.2 million homes in mid-August—up 3.6% from a year earlier and at its highest level since November 2019.

For buyers, that matters. More inventory means more choices, and more choices can mean less pressure to make a rushed decision.

Redfin’s data tells a similar story. During the four weeks ending August 9, roughly 1.48 million homes were actively listed nationwide, while pending sales remained near their lowest level since March.

Perhaps even more telling: sellers now outnumber buyers.

Redfin estimates there were 51.3% more sellers than buyers in July. Nearly 80% of major U.S. metros were classified as buyer’s markets.

That’s a remarkable reversal from the pandemic-era frenzy, when buyers often had to compete against multiple offers simply to get a chance.

But there’s an important catch.

More leverage doesn’t mean cheap houses

A buyer-friendly market doesn’t automatically mean home prices are about to plunge.

Redfin reported a median U.S. sale price of about $403,700 for the four weeks ending August 9, still 2.2% higher than a year earlier. In July, the national median sale price reached $407,730—the highest July level on record, according to Redfin.

So buyers may have more leverage without getting a huge discount.

That distinction is crucial.

A buyer’s market doesn’t necessarily mean sellers are desperate or homes are suddenly 20% cheaper. It can simply mean sellers have more competition for buyers’ attention.

That competition can take many forms:

  • A price reduction
  • A closing-cost credit
  • Seller-paid repairs
  • A mortgage-rate buydown
  • More flexibility on contingencies
  • Greater willingness to negotiate

In other words, the opportunity may be in the terms of the deal—not necessarily the sticker price.

Mortgage rates are still the elephant in the room

There’s another reason buyers shouldn’t celebrate too soon: financing remains expensive.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.65% for the week ending August 20, according to Freddie Mac. That was slightly lower than the previous week but still above the 6.58% average recorded a year earlier.

Those borrowing costs continue to keep many would-be buyers on the sidelines.

Purchase mortgage applications were down 3% from a year earlier for the week ending August 14, while Realtor.com reported that pending home sales fell 2.3% in July.

That creates an unusual dynamic.

Buyers have more power partly because fewer buyers can—or want to—participate.

And that isn’t necessarily the same thing as a broadly affordable housing market.

A home can be easier to negotiate while still being difficult to afford.

Forget the national headline. Look at your ZIP code.

Perhaps the biggest mistake is talking about “the housing market” as though every city—and every neighborhood—is experiencing the same thing.

It isn’t.

Some markets have swung decisively toward buyers. Miami, Nashville and several Texas metros currently stand out for having particularly large gaps between sellers and buyers.

Other markets remain highly competitive.

Consider San Diego County. Redfin reported that it remained a seller’s market in July, with homes spending a median of just 29 days on the market. Active listings were down 6% year over year, while the median sale price was up 2.4%.

So a national headline declaring a buyer’s market doesn’t mean a buyer shopping in a supply-constrained San Diego neighborhood can suddenly call all the shots.

The experience can vary dramatically by:

  • City
  • Neighborhood
  • Price range
  • Property type
  • Inventory levels
  • Buyer demand

The market isn’t one market anymore. It’s thousands of smaller markets behaving differently.

The “K-shaped” housing market problem

There’s another wrinkle: who is actually shopping?

Realtor.com’s latest housing research found significant differences between price tiers. Entry-level inventory and buyer engagement have both contracted as affordability pressures push more price-sensitive buyers out of the market.

Meanwhile, luxury inventory and demand have remained relatively resilient.

That creates what can look like a K-shaped housing market.

A higher-income buyer with cash reserves and flexibility may look at today’s market and see opportunity: more inventory, less competition and sellers willing to negotiate.

A first-time buyer stretching to afford a monthly payment may see something entirely different.

There may be more homes available—but that doesn’t mean there are more affordable homes.

So, is this actually a buyer’s market?

The honest answer is: increasingly, but not universally.

The pendulum has clearly moved away from the extreme seller dominance of the past few years.

Inventory is higher. Demand is softer. Buyers have more time. Sellers are adjusting expectations. And in many metros, buyers have regained meaningful negotiating power.

But prices haven’t collapsed. Mortgage rates remain elevated. And some of the country’s most desirable and supply-constrained markets continue to favor sellers.

That’s why smart buyers shouldn’t wait for a magical moment when every headline declares:

“It’s officially a buyer’s market!”

Instead, pay attention to the conditions that actually affect your purchase.

Are listings accumulating in your target neighborhood?

Are sellers cutting prices?

How long are comparable homes sitting on the market?

Are homes selling below asking price?

Are sellers offering concessions?

And perhaps most importantly: Is your monthly payment comfortable at today’s rates?

The opportunity may be leverage—not a crash

The housing market doesn’t need to crash for buyers to win.

If inventory continues to rise while demand remains restrained, buyers could gain something arguably more valuable than a dramatic drop in prices:

Choice.

Choice means you can walk away from an overpriced house.

Choice means you can negotiate instead of simply making your highest offer.

Choice means you can ask a seller to address repairs or contribute toward closing costs.

And choice means you don’t necessarily have to buy the first acceptable home that comes along.

That’s a very different market from the one buyers faced just a few years ago.

So, are we headed for a buyer’s market—or is that just wishful thinking?

It’s not wishful thinking. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all reality, either.

The national housing market is gradually tilting toward buyers. The biggest opportunities, however, are likely to belong to buyers who understand their local market, know their numbers and are willing to negotiate.

The pendulum is moving.

The question is whether it has moved far enough for you.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Events Taking Center Stage — Your Choice!

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Cartoon mexican tacos character in sombrero hat stock illustration

This August weekend offers a variety of events all wanting to take center stage for your pleasure; however, it’s your choice!  Which one will be at the top of your list?

The 13th annual Lakeview Taco Fest offers a celebration of flavor, fun, and community this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-9 p.m.) at the Southport Corridor in the Lakeview neighborhood.  As one of the city’s most sought-after destinations, over 10 of Chicago’s finest eateries will compete to craft the most mouthwatering taco you’ve ever had!  In addition, enjoy seasonal beers with a taco pairing as well as seasonal margaritas; two music stages featuring talented artists and performers; a thrilling spectacle of Lucha Libre wrestling – always a crowd favorite; and tons of family fun.  And don’t forget to cast your vote via text for the Best Taco as tacos take center stage at this fest!

Another one of Chicago’s best neighborhood festivals offers a celebration of art, creativity, culture, and community with the West Loop Art Fest this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) on Fulton Street between Peoria and Aberdeen Streets in the heart of the West Loop.  This lively open-air experience brings together the best of local and national artists and makers showcasing their signature work across a variety of mediums.  Also, just beyond the main stretch, side streets come alive with the Bizarre Boutique offering an eclectic extension showcasing artisan goods and carefully sourced vintage and resale finds.  It’s a fest where originality and creativity take center stage!

Perhaps you would like to get groovy at the 6th annual Galewoodstock this Saturday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) at 6950 West Bloomingdale Avenue in the Galewood neighborhood as it celebrates its largest community event of the year.  This music festival brings you the best local sounds they can offer all day long which includes DJ Lecks, Studebaker John, Sayre Sounds, and others; delicious local food and beverage vendors; unique artisan and retail craft vendors; and family-friendly activities at the kids’ corner.  Will your groove be center stage here?

Taking center stage in the Rogers Park neighborhood this Saturday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) is Chalk Howard Street at Bloomingdale and Sayre Avenues.  Internationally renowned 3D street artists and local 2D chalk artists will transform Howard Street into a creative canvas like no other.  This family-friendly street art festival also offers visitors an opportunity to buy a 4×4 pavement square for $25 with supplies to create their own chalk design.  Plus, attendees can enjoy live music performances, great food and drinks from local global cuisine vendors, and a day to experience art.  You will be amazed at the large optical illusions and vivid interactive drawings created!

One of the world’s largest and most accessible triathlons welcomes athletes of all ages and experience levels to Supertri Chicago this Saturday and Sunday beginning at Montrose Harbor in the Uptown neighborhood, then zooming down Lake Shore Drive, and finishing on Columbus Drive.  Athletes will begin in the waters of Lake Michigan with the swimming portion which promises to be one of the most unique open water swim experiences one could have.  Next is the exciting and iconic bike route through the heart of the Windy City with incredible city views.  Finally, one of the triathlon’s most iconic and interesting runs takes the athletes on an amazing run that showcases some of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks.  In addition, every registered athlete receives professional timing, a finisher medal, an event T-shirt, post-race food and access to the expo experiences.  Taking center stage here is a celebration of determination, community, and the thrill of crossing the finish line!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago