Chicago favorites to check out this weekend

I think it might be safe to say that the days of snow and the polar vortex are officially behind us! If you noticed on twitter, I was a little excited about the weather yesterday (80 degrees!), which was what sparked an immediate need to do a Windy City-inspired roundup for this weekend. There is no better time of the year in Chicago, so celebrate by taking advantage of what these local businesses have to offer!

1. Goldplaited
This finishing salon in Lincoln Park is in a league of it’s own. Owners Co & Mal have got some serious business savvy, because a place for ladies to affordably get their hair and makeup done for the night is just what this city needed. Not to mention they have their own amazing line of beauty products (I’m a sucker for their lipstick in Marilyn). Goldplaited’s Trendbar is a menu of updo’s of sorts — chignons, ballerina buns, fishtails, braid crowns and more for only $30 bucks! If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate Mother’s Day, a girls get together at Goldplaited would be perfect! And with so many weddings on the agenda this summer, I will definitely be back here again soon!

2. Troquet
Formerly LM Bistro, this little French spot in River North is one of my favorite neighborhood gems. In my opinion, some of the best brunch in town, complete with a patio to soak up all those summer rays we’ve been deprived of for so many months! When dinner time rolls around, they have some fabulous weekly specials. My favorite is the $12 burger and glass of wine deal on Monday!

3. Dabble
Who wouldn’t like to say they “dabble in gourmet cupcake baking” “mixology” or even “DIY Solar Electricity” (yes, that last one actually exists, too). Well, now you can! A good friend recently turned me onto Dabble and I was so surprised I hadn’t heard of it sooner! This awesome website offers classes on just about anything from local experts. You can even host a class yourself! Dabbling will only set you back about $20-$30 a class. I just took my first one a few weeks ago and loved it! I can’t wait to sign up for more. It’s a great way to meet new friends and try something interesting! P.S. Remember Goldplaited? They offer Dabble classes too!

4. Green City Market
Arguably the best farmers market in the city is now back in action as of May 5th! I’ve been waiting for this all year! Right next to the Lincoln Park Zoo, Green City is my go-to place for fresh flowers, produce, and the ultimate grilled cheese.

5. Think Simple Foods
This new little coffee and pastry shop just opened next to my apartment, which I am over the moon about. Their menu boasts incredible coffee, dozens of teas, fresh, homemade pastries, sandwiches, and this incredible chicken pot pie that tastes so good I swear they must be hiding a French grannie in their kitchen. It’s also my favorite place to get some work done. They have ample seating space, speedy wifi, and some amazing staff. They’ll soon have you coming back for more.

Happy weekend!

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