Dennis

Former Chicago policeman, retired 9 years ago after 35 years of service. Runs See Chicago with a Cop, tours. 

What neighborhood do you live in?
My wife and I have lived in the Old Town neighborhood for the past 10 years. I’ve lived half my life on the South Side and half on the North Side.

What is your favorite thing about Chicago?
Its history, its neighborhoods, its people, its food, its attitude, there’s too much--I have to stop there!

What is your favorite restaurant?
I have two: the Palace Grill on Madison and Billy Goat's on Michigan Avenue.

What is your favorite place for hot dogs?
Maxwell Street

Favorite pizza place?
The Pizano's on Madison Street.

Favorite summertime activity?
Bicycle riding.

Favorite Chicago tradition?
Attending all three of the St. Patrick's day parades.

Where do you like to bring visiting friends or out-of-town guests?
The view from the front of the Adler Planetarium looking northwest at any time of the day or night.

Best seat to watch a Sox game.
Any seat in the house!

What neighborhoods should first-time visitors not miss?
I always encourage visitors to explore neighborhoods representing their ethnic background.

What's your favorite season to explore the city?
Each season shows us a different “face” of Chicago... I love them all.

Where do you take people on your “See Chicago with a Cop” tours and why?
Each tour is unique, personalized, and takes into consideration the wants of the visitors. For example, what their interests are, or locations they’ve heard about and want to visit. One of the best ways to get a feel for a city is to ride on its public transportation system...so that's what we do. We go everywhere in Chicago on the 'L' (elevated train), the subway and buses.