If there are a couple of places in Chicago that can be a million things to a million people, they’ve got to be Lincoln Park and Lakeview. With the two communities’ numerous amenities and attractions, residents have a broad range of places to feel comfortable in.
We asked a few of the people who live or work in Lincoln Park and Lakeview about their favorite places in these two neighborhoods. Here is what they said.
Dennis Zacek, artistic director, Victory Gardens Theater: “Sterch’s Tavern–the sign in the window speaks volumes: `No Corona. No foolish drinks. Limited dancing.’ No `Johnny-come-lately,’ this bar is the real thing.”
Cynthia Rodgers, head librarian, John Merlo Branch of the Chicago Public Library: “I love waiting for my children in front of the Hawthorne Scholastic Academy as they come out of school. It’s a wonderful school and it’s so nice to see other parents out there waiting for their kids.”
Adam Schwerner, director of horticulture for the Chicago Park District, Lincoln Park Conservatory: “I just love the bike path along the lakefront. If it’s hot in the summer, you can get off your bike and jump in the lake and cool off. It’s been a really wonderful gift since I’ve been in Chicago. I’m from New York and it’s a different experience with the lakefront here.”
Karina Reyes, assistant administrator, The Salvation Army Belmont-Lakeview Corps: “I love Lincoln Avenue from Montrose to Belmont. It reminds me of my home, Mexico City. I love the businesses and the people that are found up and down the street.”
Kim Klausmeier, president and CEO, Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce: “One of my favorite places to relax and unwind is Oz Park. I especially love the beautiful Emerald City Gardens as well as the Tin Man sculpture there.”
Bernard J. Hansen, alderman, 44th Ward: “Wrigley Field. It has been since I was a kid. Until I was 9, I spent all my free time at the ballpark. I used to live a half-block from there. And I worked there setting chairs and selling newspapers.”
Erin McGuire, supervisor, Sheil Park: “I like the Newport Bar and Grill. It’s a lot of fun. It’s got a good atmosphere and good food. It’s a good neighborhood joint and it’s real friendly.”
Vi Daley, alderman, 43rd Ward: “I really like to go down to North Avenue Beach. It’s just relaxing. It’s great for people watching and enjoying the city’s beautiful skyline. It’s so quiet and peaceful, despite all the activity there.
Gregg Kiriazes, president, Lake View Citizens Council: “The Ann Sather Restaurant on Belmont is my favorite. The owner, Tom Tunney, is gracious. We have meetings there all of the time. It’s just as much of a community center as it is a restaurant. People run into other people there constantly.”
Gail Cari, administrative director, Menomonee Club for Boys and Girls: “One of my favorite places is the Lincoln Park Lagoon. I row there every morning with the Lincoln Park Boat Club. Actually, I scull. It’s peaceful, and the lagoon is a perfect haven for water sports.”
Chuck Suchar, associate dean and professor of sociology, DePaul University: “My choice would be along the Chicago River west of here. It’s sort of a post-industrial spot, and it’s a look at the Rust Belt that is now fast disappearing. It’s fun to wander around there and see what’s left as far as factories and such.”
Dr. Silvia Bicalho, obstetrician/gynecologist at Illinois Masonic Medical Center: ” Bittersweet Restaurant has the freshest ingredients and the menu is always different. The flavors are bountiful and the atmosphere is clean, fresh and friendly.”
Mike Sarna, director of exhibits, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: “I love the North Pond. It’s a very contemplative area and it’s a bird sanctuary. Migratory birds are often found there–from snowy egrets to blue heron, which are currently nesting there.”
Susan Kurland, principal, Louis Nettelhorst Elementary School: “The Unabridged Bookstore is a neighborhood treasure, where a knowledgeable staff makes excellent recommendations for a good read–with a great children’s section as an added bonus.”
Richard Clegg, director, Lincoln-Belmont YMCA: “If I had to pick one place it would be the lakefront path from Lakeview to Lincoln Park. You can use it for blading, biking, walking or jogging. It takes advantage of the Lincoln Park and Lakeview lakefront wonderfully.”
