June 21st is technically the first day of summer and you know what that means…. it’s Chicago’s time to shine. To be honest, I’ve already been basking in the glory days of summer. I’ve already had my first summer beach day (Shore Club Chicago), first summer boat ride (Chicago Line Cruises), and my first summer patio dining (Manchamanteles Restaurant).
Have you thought of what your perfect summer day in Chicago would involve? Losing yourself in a museum exhibit, cocktails on a rooftop, boating excursion with your friends, hopping on a trolly ride, or heading to Navy Pier to see the fireworks. No two weeks are alike and with that I want to share my #Summertimechi with you. Some weeks will involve unique outings, some weeks will be chill, some weeks will involve grand openings. Either way this series will show you what I’m up to this summer and hopefully give you suggestions on what you can do to create your perfect version of Summer in Chicago.
So… what did Tavi J of Chiataglance get into June 21st – June 27th?
Choose Magic
Choose Chicago Magic Article
I’m a freelance writer for Choose Chicago (Chicago’s official tourism + conventions bureau). I get to write some super fun articles and my last one was regarding Chicago’s legendary Magic scene. Check out the article HERE. I also, attended a super fun Magic show (not featured in the article): Champions of Magic. It was such a fun show for all ages and my friend’s son was chosen to go on stage! We had such a good time. Hurry up though the show only goes through August 23rd.
Patio Dining at Manchamanteles Restaurant
Patio at Manchamanteles Restaurant
I had my first patio dining experience of the summer at Manchamanteles Restaurant. Well technically we ate inside because of the weather and to watch the World Cup. Did you know Manchamanteles is known for their Mole? Chef Gino Bahena is known as Chicago’s Master of Mole. They even had a seven course Mole tasting dinner the evening we were there.
Some standouts for me were the Kiwi Margarita, which is new to their cocktail list. I also loved their new summer menu item Hongos Tostadas. It’s a medley of wild and woodland mushrooms, crispy tostadas with garbanzo beans, queso crème fresh. My chicken enchiladas entree was also a standout. I asked for them to be spicy and they really brought the heat. All the desserts we had were fantastic, but my favorite was the the Pay de Coco y Almendra – Dense, chewy, fresh coconut pie with slivered almonds, homemade mango sauce, and strawberry ice cream. YUM! Check them out this summer!
Hammitt Grand Opening
Hammitt Handbag
Lately the grand opening parties I have been to are extravagant and Hammitt definitely hit the mark. The premium leather handbag store is based in Los Angeles and they made their way to the Windy City about three weeks ago. Their grand opening was on June 25th. For media we were given a look book and got to pick a handbag to wear to the opening. I went with the pictured Erica | Dill/Gold.
When I arrived at the opening I was greeted with Champagne and was told to pick out any other handbag I wanted in the store. I went with the beautiful Tom Lrg. AND they sent us home with a handbag goodie. Welcome to Chicago Hammitt. Beautiful summer bags you have to get your hands on this summer!
Pepsi Local Eats Fest Chicago with Dylan Efron
Dylan Efron and Tavi J
Casual Saturday eating tacos with Dylan Efron at Big Star Chicago in Wicker Park. 🫣😆 Thanks to Pepsi Local Eats for the invite!
