Neighborhood Tour: Date Nights in Old Town
Gallucci Pizzeria Napoletana
Chicago has so many amazing neighborhoods and they all have their own special ambiance to offer to residents and visitors. Every area has something that makes it unique! To explore, we’re taking a tour around the city with experts in the area, and wnext on our list is Old Town! This neighrborhood is known for amazing restaurants, bars and cafes, most of them packed into just a few square blocks. But where should you visit first? We’re taking our picks from Nicolette O’Connor, a realtor with Compass Real Estate who lived in Old Town for years and still works with those looking to become homeowners there! She knows all the best places for a cozy meal or a fun drink in Old Town. Let’s take a tour…
DI4W: What attracts people to make their home in downtown Chicago?
O’Connor: I love that Chicago can feel so small some days and so big the others. It's nice to feel like you live in a neighborhood but you're just a 10 minute cab ride away from a completely different world from another neighborhood or even just the city center. The neighborhoods are just so charming - It's hard to beat!
How would you describe Old Town in a few words?
Fun, chaotic (at times), unique, charming, lively
Why do you specifically love working and dining in this neighborhood?
I was drawn to Old town because of the asbolutely perfect location. It's so close to Lake Michigan for summertime, and it’s easy to get to the other neighborhoods, too. Not to mention, it’s got such a great night life. It always feels so lively!
What makes it such a unique place to live?
Proximity to the lake, a great neighborhood feel, and the long strip of bars/restaurants on Wells Street. It’s so convenient! Then, you can go walking through some of the side streets and you'll also see the most amazing homes. They date so far back and the character is just so charming. It makes for the best walks!
Where in Old Town would you meet a new client to get to know them better?
The Foxtrot at the corner of North Avenue and Wells is a great go-to because it has space for a meeting and something for everyone!
And what are your favorite date night spots?
Topo Gigio Ristorante {1516 North Wells Street, Chicago; 312.266.9355} is such a great date night spot - it's a classic! My husband and go there again and again. I also love Gallucci Pizzeria Napoletana {1551 North Wells Street, Chicago; 312.888.3993} for a more fun nighttime spot. It's great for first dates or even a double date! Italian is always the right choice for a romantic date.
via Kamehachi
What would be your ultimate night out in Old Town?
Start at Kamahachi {1531 North Wells Street, Chicago; 312.664.3663} for a drink and an app, then walk on over to Topo Gigio for some more! ;) Hit up LG's Bar & Kitchen {1525 North Wells Street, Chicago; 312.888.9368} or The VIG {1527 North Wells Street, Chicago; 312.982.2186} for a nightcap! All that fun…within a couple block walk!
And what would your casual Sunday routine look like in the neighborhood?
Grab a coffee then go for a walk along the water! Hitting up the farmers market is always so fun too - I love looking at all the amazing local brands and grabbing a snack!
Lastly, what’s one Chicago dish or meal you cannot live without?
A classic Chicago hot dog - Duh!