Chassidy White
Concierge Supervisor at the Hyatt Regency
How long you’ve lived here: Seven years.
What you like best about Chicago: All the wonderful events that happen year round! From Lollapalooza to the African Festival. Free summer festivals in Millennium Park, Grant Park and other neighborhoods.
Best meal you’ve had recently: Goat masala pizza at the Girl and the Goat. The food and service were phenomenal. I had several courses at this establishment, and I can’t wait to go back! I also loved the decor and the great atmosphere. Be sure to make a reservation weeks in advance because they book up very quickly.
Favorite big-name restaurant: I recently had the opportunity to dine at Charlie Trotter’s for the first time, and it was a fantastic experience. The service was impeccable, and the wine pairings with the courses were dead on. Every detail of each dish was explained very thoroughly.
Favorite “hidden gem” restaurant: I enjoy Ping Pong in the Lakeview neighborhood. It’s a small, quaint Asian fusion restaurant. Definitely some of the best Chinese food I’ve ever had.
Best sports bar to catch the game: Big Bar, located in the Hyatt Regency. It’s a great bar with big drinks and big appetizers. All Chicago sporting events are shown in the Big Bar. And when a Chicago team scores, cheers can be heard throughout!
A great night out with friends usually includes… drinks and karaoke at Lincoln Karaoke on the north side.
Favorite store or best shopping area: I love shopping on Michigan Avenue and State Street. One of my favorite stores at the moment is Zara. I love the European style of clothing there. I also enjoy Nordstrom Rack. I can always find great name-brand bargains at both locations.
Spring activity that calls your name: Running and biking along the lakefront. I also enjoy participating in marathons throughout the city.
One thing every visitor must do here: Visit Millennium Park to view the Cloud Gate. This is a great place to go to take pictures with family and friends and will give you a long-lasting, memorable experience.
While in Chicago, don’t bother… driving your car downtown or renting a car. You’ll just get stuck in traffic, and that will ruin half of your trip.
Secret Chicago spot: Pizza Rustica is a very cozy Italian restaurant in the Lakeview/Wrigelyville area. They have one of the best thin-crust pizzas I have stumbled across in the city. If you’re in the mood for some authentic Italian cuisine, this is a great place. They are also BYOB!
Underrated activity in the city: Visiting the DuSable Museum! Many visitors who come to Chicago don’t know much about the DuSable Museum, and I think it’s time more people head out to Hyde Park to take in some African-American history. The Dusable Museum is named after Jean Baptiste Point Dusable, the first permanent resident of Chicago.
