Angela

Wine director at the Signature Room at 95th; 26; lifelong Chicagoan; lives in Lincoln Square

What neighborhood do you live in?
I live in Lincoln Square, one of the areas originally settled by German immigrants. Lincoln Square is a fabulous place to live! The square is a walkable area with independent shops and restaurants. The most notable operation is The Chicago Brauhaus – a German pub where the servers wear lederhosen and the oompah bands play all night!

What is your favorite thing about Chicago?
I love the different neighborhoods and how they each have their own personalities. But even more than that, I love how easily accessible each neighborhood is because of our public transportation system.

Where do you like to go for fun?
I am a museum fanatic! I just bought myself a City Pass which allows admission to all of the museums – The Field, The Shedd, The Museum of Science and Industry– and I go whenever I can. I also recently discovered The Freedom Museum in the Tribune Building and admission is only $5, every day.

What is your favorite place for hot dogs?
I grew up going to SuperDawg in Jefferson Park; it is still my favorite. When I was a little girl we would go every Saturday for lunch, and I still regularly crave their Chicago Dog.

Favorite summertime activity?
Dining al fresco at one of the many places in Chicago that offer outdoor seating. If I am in the mood for a high-end dinner I will go to Socca in Lakeview, but if I feel like a casual night out I head to Fireplace Inn in Old Town – in the summer they open the patio doors so you can sit at the bar and enjoy the fresh air.

Favorite Chicago tradition?
Dyeing the Chicago River green on St. Patrick’s Day. It is the one day a year that everyone is Irish!

Favorite place in Chicago?
North Avenue Beach.  I love people watching so this is a prime spot to hang out. All I need is a full cooler and a book and I am set for the day.

Favorite hidden spot?
Peet’s Coffee and Tea on North and Clybourn. They have the best coffee and tea that I have ever had, and because it is tucked next to the Whole Foods on North Avenue, it is easy to get a seat any day of the week. The people are friendly, the coffee is always fresh and they have great overhead music.