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"Some days I hate everything, everyone & everything, please don't tell me everything is wonderful now"
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Rating Distribution
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Review votes:
1918 Useful, 1530 Funny, and 1678 Cool
Chicago, IL
Yelping SinceMay 2008
Things I Lovesushi, cats, surfing, cupcakes, yelp, brunch, chocolate, vodka, crab rangoon, cheese fries, bagels, Traveling, Jamba Juice, bagels and lox, pasta, mimosas, burritos, radishes, roller derby, blogging
Find Me InLP, but don't hate me for it
My HometownOak Park-River Forest, IL
My Blog Or WebsiteIf you ask nicely I just might tell you
Why You Should Read My ReviewsI've got an opinion about everything and I'll usually bottom line it for you
My Second Favorite Websitehttp://woot.com, http://urbandictionary..., http://cakewrecks.blog..., http://dickipedia.org
The Last Great Book I ReadCandy Girl, The Color of Water, In Cold Blood, Take the Cannoli
My First ConcertU2 Zoo TV tour (I think)
My Favorite MovieFunny Face, Return to Me, Pride & Prejudice (BBC version) Better off Dead
Don't Tell Anyone Else But...I shot a man in Reno just to watch him die
Most Recent DiscoveryThe fire extinguisher in my utility closet was last tested in 1978 - yikes!!
Current CrushG. Love, Geof from Ace of Cakes, Bill Kurtis' voice, Winston http://tinyurl.com/5ws2tu
Date
1 Previous Review: Hide »
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8/21/2009
I was thrilled to see a Groupon for Yoga Boutique; I love yoga, but don't really have a lot of cash to spend on classes. Thankfully, Groupon has yet to steer me wrong.
The studio is small and located in a residential building so don't look for a sign or store front from the street. If I had to guess classes top out at about 8 students per class, at least the indoor ones.
The studio is well maintained, almost too well maintained; I want to put a knick or something in the wall so I have something to spot when we do balancing poses! When you enter the studio there's a cubby area for your shoes and some small lockers to put your stuff. They have plenty of mats, straps and blocks so there's no need to bring your own (unless you prefer to of course). I was impressed that mats are sprayed and wiped down at the end of class; sounds silly, but I've never been in a studio where I've seen it done.
I've been attending the Ashtanga Primary Series class with Liz. Unfortunately, Liz is leaving in a week to teach overseas for a year. I've really enjoyed her class; she is patient, makes adjustments, explains poses well, and is good about suggesting modifications if necessary. If all of the instructors are like her I expect her replacement to be just as great.
If your looking for a smaller studio where you'll get personal attention give Yoga Boutique a shot. The Ashtanga Primary Series class is a great beginners class, I just wish it was offered more than once a week.
You can sign up for classes and buy packages online. I'm not antisocial, but I love any business that lets me get things done when it's convenient for me; maybe it's because I usually remember to do these things at 2 am.
P.S. YB offers yoga, pilates, core, dance, boot camp and kids classes. The studio also offers massage.
Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 875-9696
Yelp Office Hours @ The Skydeck
Category: Local Flavor
Neighborhood: The Loop
Maybe it's old age, I don't know, but I've become decidedly more daring in recent years. No, I won't be jumping out of a plane any time soon, but I was comfortable perusing the Sky Deck, and getting up close to the windows. Even after some serious arm twisting I made it out on the ledge; I survived and there was no crying or vomiting involved!* Which is good because who wants to be known as 'that Yelper who barfed all over the ledge while crying like a baby.'
Thanks for Johnny T and the Skydeck crew for planning this event. The view at night is terrific with the city all lit up and, in my opinion, way more interesting than the view during the daytime. Being a local, touristy things aren't usually at the top of my to do list, but I'm glad this event got me up there.
* I think the trick for owning the ledge is not only to not look down, but to back onto it. I tried to walk right on, but was a bit paralyzed by fear and nausea.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 281-7300
Dinkel's Bakery
Categories: Bakeries, Coffee & Tea, Desserts
Neighborhood: Lakeview
Anyway, I popped into Dinkel's to spend my $15 Groupon, which reminded me a lot of the little bakeries my mom dragged me to as a kid for cakes, rolls, etc. There is a long L-shaped glass bakery case full of items to ooh and ahhh over, just don't forget to grab a number from the little machine by the door. Most of the bakeries I frequented as a kid didn't have the seating Dinkel's does; it's nice that you don't have to enjoy your treats in your car, like you should be ashamed of them or something.
Seeing as this is old-school and not a new, trendy bakery, my $15 stretched pretty far. Coming between Monday and Thursday my Groupon also afforded me 3 free danishes! For just under $20, I ended up with:
* 3 almond "danish" things
* 2 red velvet cupcakes
* 6 apple cider donuts (on special that day)
* 1 loaf of butter crust bread
* 1 box of walnut chocolate chip cookies
Those little almond dealies, almost like mini bear claws, and the homemade bread were fantastic. Unfortunately, the cupcakes weren't. At just under $3, they are priced comparably to basic cupcakes at Sweet Mandy B's or Molly's, but in terms of taste they can't hold a candle to either. I liked the frosting, plenty of it and not too sour, but I found the cake portion to be on the dry side and lacking flavor. I wasn't wild about the donuts either, maybe freezing and thawing them did something to the flavor; they were moist, but a bit bland for my liking. I probably should've gone with my gut and gotten chocolate ones. The cookies were good, but not what I would consider exceptional.
Service was cordial, no idle chit chat here. Since it was my first time some steering might have been nice ("we're known for these," "these are my favorites," etc.), but the guy next to me in line did a pretty good job.
Bottom line: 3.5 stars, I'd come back for some staples like coffecakes, danishes and bread, but probably skip the rest.
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 871-2200
Dairy Queen/Orange Julius
Categories: Desserts, Juice Bars & Smoothies, Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Likes:
-Blizzards, sundaes and soft serve
-Coupons from being part of the Blizzard Fan Club
-The walk up window
-The location being so close to my house
Dislikes:
-Twice now getting Blizzards where the bottom 1/4 was straight vanilla soft serve.
-Stale Oreos in my last Blizzard - blech!
-Sullen service. I've witnessed the drinkin' on Lincoln drunks, bitchy "real housewives," and obnoxious teens in the store, but that doesn't mean all customers should get that kind of disinterested service.
2 Previous Reviews: Hide »
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7/29/2008
Oh DQ you so know how to hit the spot! On my way home from dinner I stopped at the walk up window for my mint-Oreo blizzard.
As usual it did not disappoint, plenty of minty syrup and Oreo's. My service was great, however I felt a little sorry for the poor guy who approached the window after me. The person who helped me greeted him with a gruff "Yeah" which sent me into flashbacks of watching Flo on the show Alice as a kid. -
6/18/2008
I love DQ and am thrilled they moved in just down the street from me. Even better they have a walk up window so I can get a late nite DQ fix on my way home from the bars - nothing beats a late night mint-oreo blizzard!
They don't have a full DQ food menu some of the suburbans ones have, mainly hot just dogs.
My one annoyance is that I wish the walk up window was open later on weekends. Midnight is too early, there's nothing like a late night blizzard to cap off an evening of drinking!
Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 419-7571
Au Bon Pain
Category: Sandwiches
Neighborhood: The Loop
I made the mistake of ordering it today and noticed from the first bite the distinctive taste of chicken. The website confirmed it too. Boooooo!
In their defense they do label the veggie menu items, I just never thought to question mac and cheese, my mistake. Well, that's one way of sparing myself some needless fat and caloric intake.
I am dropping this place a star for one reason, the annoying sandwich ordering process; it is NOT designed for the picky eater. The other half of my lunch also ended up in the trash after my sandwich was not only slathered in mayo (yuck), but the wrong kind, regular instead of chipotle (double yuck).
1 Previous Review: Hide »
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7/22/2008
I give this place 4 stars mainly for satisfying my "I'm running late for school and need something to eat fast" fix. I'm a big fan of the cranberry walnut and corn muffins (just ask anyone who sits next to me in my morning classes). They serve hot breakfast items too (egg sandwiches, oatmeal, etc.) which look tasty.
ABP is more than just breakfast though, it's so much more. They have a great selection of soups and always have at least 1-2 vegetarian options; you can also get it in a bread bowl if you want. They also have a lot of sandwich, wrap and salad options too if soup's not your thing. When you order you have to fill out these little menu cards with what you want and they make it for you. I don't mind the system, but I do think it a little strange that they put a few employees out to help you fill out your tickets (seriously? it's not rocket science!). There's also a cooler with some pre-made items and juices and waters for those who want to grab and go.
There's also a lot of seating at this location too, which is nice; they have outdoor tables for those few days when it's not sweltering hot or bone-chilling cold.
Bottom line: this is a good place with something for almost everyone; with so many choices it doesn't feel like a chain. I also feel like I can eat healthy when I'm here too, which is a plus.
TIP: all of the locations have a 50% off bake sale after a certain time. If you make it there taste the apple croissant and skip the chocolate muffin (I love chocolate, but this one's not tasty)
Chicago, IL 60638
(773) 577-2709
Four Seasons Heating & Air Conditioning
Categories: Contractors, Electricians
I was a bit disappointed in two things with Four Seasons, hence the 4 stars. First, they don't call to confirm appointments; I scheduled weeks in advance and took the day off work, so I wanted to know that they would be there. Second, I was given a window 8-1, that's worse than a cable TV window! When I called to confirm they told me they don't put the day's list of appointments together until very early in the AM. Fortunately, they said they would try to schedule me early and have the tech call when he was on his way.
My tech was really nice and prompt showing up around 8:30 and got right to work. He didn't seem to mind my cat supervising his work, because she's a heating/cooling expert of course. He inspected the furnace and then cleaned whatever gets cleaned in a furnace. He noted that my furnace is getting up there in age (a few times), but it should hold out for a while longer. He also told me that if something does go awry, replacing the furnace would end up being the more cost-effective option. He even offered to change the filter I had sitting in my car (he was picking up on my propensity for procrastination), but I promised him I'd get it done that day.*
When the time comes to replace my furnace, Four Seasons will be on my short list of places to get a quote from.
* I kept my promise, the new filter is locked and loaded.
PS I may be lax about the inspections, but not about having CO detectors throughout my place.
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 832-9999
Sapori Trattoria
Category: Italian
Neighborhoods: Lincoln Park, DePaul
I knew this place had some big ... scratch that huge, Godzilla-like shoes to fill after my dad's birthday dinner a few weeks prior. Actually, I don't think Godzilla wears shoes, but that's neither here nor there. Ever since that dinner at La Gondola my mom has been like a one-woman version of a six degrees game; you only have to tangentially mention something Italian for her to make the connection and start raving about that dinner and her plans to return.
We could've made a return appearance, but I wanted to try something different for my birthday. Unfortunately, neither the food nor service came close to the bar La Gondola had set so high with my family.
Pluses:
+ You can make reservations through Open Table.
+ They have a dining club and http://restaurant.com gift certificates with few restrictions.
+ The space is intimate and romantic; cloth tablecloths and napkins, votives on the tables, and exposed brick walls.
+ The portions are generous, all three of us ended up taking some of our meals home.
+ The food is very good; you could definitely tell the pasta was homemade. All three of us were happy with our meals, but not in an orgasmic, I'd sell my first born for another bite, or touch my plate and you'll be walking with a limp, sort of way.
Minuses:
- We were seated at one of two high top tables near the bar. The table was very narrow across, had there been 4 in our party it would've felt really cramped. The tall chairs were very difficult to scoot closer to the table too, causing my parents problems.
- Service was inattentive; friendly, but inattentive. We had big lulls in our meal - our meals took a long time to arrive; we got the wrong dishes brought to our table; and we had to request our bread and drinks be replenished. Maybe our server was also covering the back of the place, because most times we couldn't even find her on the floor to get her attention.
- Meals are expensive. Pasta entrees range between $20-22 and are a la carte. First, I think there should be more than a $1-2 price disparity between a simple pasta with red sauce and something like lobster ravioli, linguine and clams, or pasta with veal meatballs. Second, I think at that price point a choice of soup or salad is appropriate.
- The TV in the "bar area" is unnecessary, if not inappropriate for the setting, even with the sound off. My parents, who were facing the TV, were visibly distracted by the Chargers-Giants game.
Bottom line: The food was good, but think there are other places in town where I can get more bang for my buck. I'll definitely give this place another chance, I'll just make sure I had some sort of coupon first.
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 360-8325
KnockBox Cafe
Category: Coffee & Tea
Neighborhood: Humboldt Park
I enjoyed myself, but was surprised at how much my fellow brunchers warmed to the place. We usually choose a place based on their brunch menu knowing that we'll have to wait for a table and can't really linger over our meals. This time, we were happy with our simple meals and there was actually talk of slating Knockbox for a return trip (or two).
Knockbox is a cute little space, bright with photos adorning the walls. They have free wifi, serve Metropolis coffee and have a small, but well chosen menu of mostly sandwiches and panini. Service was extremely friendly, I'm not sure if the staff is related or not, but they seemed to be very close knit. They were very warm and accommodating, never making us feel rushed.
I ordered a large iced tea and the Don't Knock It sandwich. I'm not sure what type of tea was used, but I wasn't crazy about it; next time I'd choose something different. In addition to coffee and tea, they have soda, juice, and Italian sodas; sodas come in the cute, little glass bottles. The Don't Knock It was a veggie sandwich with lettuce, tomato, cukes, sprouts, onion, red pepper, mushrooms and oil and vinegar. Everything is made to order, so I got mine with some cheese added and it was quite tasty. They offer a few choices of sides - apple sauce, cole slaw and fruit cup. I highly recommend the fruit cup, I got a mix of granny smith's and cranberries with a light cinnamon seasoning, mmmm.
They have lots of tasty looking baked goods too, if you want something a little naughty.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 598-5851
Chiropractical Solutions & Massage
Categories: Chiropractors, Massage
Neighborhood: Lakeview
* $39 for a 1 hour massage to be used within 30 days of the big day.
1 Previous Review: Hide »
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6/18/2009
Mmmm, I love stripping down and having someone rub me all over!
I was turned on to Chiropractical Solutions after seeing a Groupon for 2 one-hour massages for $60 that looked too good to pass up. Scheduling an appointment for my massage couldn't have been easier. I went to their website, filled out the online scheduling form and set up an appointment. I received a quick reply and paperwork to bring in for my first visit and consultation.
My only direct interaction with Dr. Weisz was during my consultation; he was very nice. Dr. Weisz reviewed my paperwork asked me a few questions about past injuries, health issues, etc. and sent me off for my massage. The only slightly annoying part was that Dr. Weisz had to step out repeatedly during the consultation to deal with office matters.
Both massages I received were excellent, Christine took care of me both times. The first was a "just because" massage, but the second was to address some lower back pain I had been experiencing. After breaking into random stretches around my office I figured it was time to get it taken care of. My co-workers were beginning to think I was crazy(er), bending, squatting and contorting all over the office for relief.
I'm not sure what I did, but one morning I woke up and felt like I'd been competing in the Strongest (wo)Man competition; either that or I've taken to moving furniture in my sleep. It may have only been a dream, but the back pain from the fire truck pull was all too real. Christine did her best to alleviate my discomfort and gave me a few suggestions for getting things back in order.
I would definitely com back here in the future. If you make a follow up massage appointment within one month of your last visit a one-hour massage is only $45!
Note: Some of the therapists are students completing their hours for certification. Therefore they may not be there long-term.
Chicago, IL 60660
(773) 465-9801
Uncommon Ground
Categories: American (New), Breakfast & Brunch
Neighborhood: Edgewater
Uncommon Ground Devon took over what used to be the Speakeasy Supper Club. This outpost of UG has a very different feel than its Lakeview sibling, and I like it. Lakeview has a hodgepodge, part bar, part restaurant, part live music venue, sorta casual feel. Devon, on the other hand, feels smoother, sexier, classier, yet still low key.
I absolutely love the vintage art deco bar area. I love the dark wood; low, cozy tables; and amber-toned lighting. I also loved the sip I snagged of a lemon ginger martini, I'd come back for one of those and I'm not really a martini sort of gal. Many of their cocktails contain one of their own house-infused vodkas too.
Just past the bar are two oblong rooms, connected by two doorways. Our event was in the far room, which conveniently had its own set of bathrooms and a stage used for live music. Exposed brick, lots of wood and warm brown tones make it very cozy.
The food and service for the event lived up to the expectations set by the ambiance. Service was very attentive; one server had my drink refill in hand just as I was taking my last sip, I didn't even need to ask!
Our meal started with two appetizers, a Mediterranean platter - hummus, olives, roast eggplant salad, tzatziki, and pita; and a baked artichoke, goat cheese & pesto dip served with crostini. The baked dip was my favorite of the two, I probably could have polished off a whole portion of that warm, cheesiness myself.
Next came an organic mixed green salad with apple cider vinaigrette. It was perfect between the two courses a nice, light little interlude to cleanse the palette.
To finish we had two dishes, pumpkin ravioli and a chicken and gnocchi dish. I don't eat chicken so you're stuck with my commentary on the ravioli. I'm always a little skeptical about things like pumpkin ravioli, many times the come off too sweet and dessert-like, but UG gets it right. The ravioli, served with creamy sage butter, gorgonzola, and toasted hazelnuts, was excellent; the perfect balance of savory and sweet, with all of the flavors melding together so well, like they were destined to meet.
Even though this place is pretty far North I'd definitely make a return trip. After all they have a small parking lot, easy street parking and are close to public transit (151, 36 & red line).
P.S. On the roof is a certified organic farm - how cool!
59 Lists
2 Events
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Iron Cupcake Chicago - Battle? Christmas!!
December 14 6:00 PM -
Yelp's Biggest Loser
December 31 1:00 AM
Yoga Boutique comes really close to getting 5 stars in my book, especially since they spray down the mats after every class. I mean with cold and flu season and H1N1 going around, I'm a fan of spraying every surface available; especially one I'm rolling around and sweating on.
Since my Ashtanga instructor wasn't replaced, I decided to try out some other classes with the rest of my Groupon class package - Beginner Vinyasa (4 stars), Cardio Barre (3 stars - not enough barre and I didn't find the cardio super challenging*), and Core Connection (4.5 stars). All of the instructors were very nice and informative. Dana, the owner, is also very nice and remembered me by name after only 1 or 2 visits to the studio. When I can swing it, this studio is definitely on my short list of places I would want to return with some regularity.
The one thing keeping me from pushing this place up to 5 stars is the back-to-back class schedule. I hate the back-to-back format, it really ends up gypping all, but the first class of the series out of class time. By the time you spray down your stuff and put away your equipment and the new class has settled in at least 10 minutes have gone by. Plus, to stay on schedule that means those 10 minutes won't be tacked on at the end. In my opinion, there should be a 10-15 minute gap between classes so everyone gets their full class time and money's worth.
I wouldn't hesitate to send someone looking for a yoga studio in the Lakeview/Uptown area here, especially if they are a beginning yoga student.
* I am not some paragon of fitness, running for the bus is enough to get my heart rate up.