Maggie Daley Park skating ribbon — photo by Total Photography

Sheena Lawrick

How long you’ve lived here: Seven years this October.

What you like best about Chicago: Easy. The Blackhawks! I absolutely love going to games at the United Center. Even as a Canadian, I get goose bumps when the Star Spangled Banner is sung to the applause of the crowd. It’s an experience so unique to any sporting event I’ve been to.

Best meal you’ve had recently: The Uncle Rube sandwich from Steingold’s of Chicago. I asked one of the workers at this Jewish deli what sandwich he recommended (it was my first visit), and he said the Uncle Rube was “life changing.” He was right.

Favorite big-name restaurant: Homestead on the Roof in West Town. My fiancé and I go there when we feel like an impromptu celebration. One time we were lucky enough to get a table on July 4 right before it got dark out. We had an amazing meal surrounded by the garden our food was prepared with — and neighborhood fireworks!

Favorite “hidden gem” restaurant: Sticky Rice for some great Thai food. The fresh coconuts and salapao (sticky buns) are amazing.

The Sixth has amazing cocktails with an extremely laid-back vibe. I’m a huge fan of any cocktail created by Benjamin Schiller.

Best sports bar to catch the game: The patio at O’Donovan’s in Lakeview is quickly becoming my favorite place to catch any game. Really cool atmosphere, and there isn’t a bad seat in the house.

A great night out with friends usually includes… drinks at The Sixth in Lincoln Square. Amazing cocktails with an extremely laid-back vibe. I’m a huge fan of any cocktail created by Benjamin Schiller, especially the Weston.

Favorite store or best shopping area: Una Mae’s boutique in Wicker Park for some fun, cozy, stylish apparel.

The best way to spend a late fall or winter Saturday in the city: A morning workout at Windy City CrossFit followed by an afternoon Blackhawks game. There’s nothing better than Blackhawks hockey and brunch!

One thing every visitor must do here: Try a Weston from The Sixth.

Secret Chicago spot: Cellar Door Provisions (CDP), a rustic farm-to-table restaurant on Diversey. I’ve never had a croissant with so many buttery layers.

Underrated activity in the city: Ice skating at the new “ribbon” in Maggie Daley Park just east of Millennium Park.

What’s one place you hear great things about but have yet to try? The original Hot Doug’s. Guess I missed the boat on that one, eh? I’ll need to head to Wrigley Field now to try them out.