MJ

MJ is a proud Chicago mom of 3. Of Filipino descent, she is married to a Chinese-American and currently lives in Chinatown. MJ is the editor of Chicagonista, an online lifestyle magazine for very active parents, or "movers, shakers, and baby makers" as she calls them. She also co-hosts an interactive live stream talk show, Chicagonista LIVE!, with local broadcast journalist Nancy Loo, Beth Rosen, and Duong Sheahan. They tackle local Chicago hot topics as well as current Social Media news. Finally, MJ is the Founding Partner of SocialRevUp, a social media events company that connects brands and bloggers and hosts an annual Brands & Bloggers Summit (#BBSummit).

How long have you lived in Chinatown, and what do you like best about the neighborhood?

17 years; I love begin surrounded by the Asian culture, inexpensive good food, and its proximity to downtown and the Lakefront.

What are some of Chinatown’s best kept secrets or hidden gems?

Definitely Ping Tom Park and the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago.

What is the best way to explore Chinatown?

Chinatown is easy to get to. Families are welcome in almost all of the restaurants in Chinatown and the community is very welcoming and eager to help and point out places to eat and check out if you take your time in this neighborhood.

What are some not-to-be-missed festivals that take place in Chinatown?

You must definitely not miss the annual Lunar New Year Parade. 2012's (Year of 4710 in the Chinese calendar) parade is on January 29th. It also happens to be the Centennial year of Chinatown from 1912-2012 so an even bigger celebration is in store!

What is your favorite restaurant in Chinatown?

I love Joy Yee's because my kids love the variety of Pan-Asian cuisine. You must try their Bubble Teas or Smoothies. There are really so many news ones to check out.

Another food favorite - what are some of the best places to get dim sum?

Check out this article I wrote on Chicagonista. I gathered my born-and-raised Chinatown friends and got their take on the best places for dim sum.

Any specialty retailers in Chinatown that sells something one would probably never find elsewhere in the city?

Groceries are probably one thing that keeps me shopping in my own neighborhood. Asian vegetables can be very hard to find outside of Chinatown for a reasonable price.

Outside of Chinatown, what are some of your favorite things to see and do in the city?

I love checking out new restaurants in the city.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in all of Chicago?

The Chicago Firehouse restaurant always manages to make me melt with their juicy steaks - I can't stay away from this place! DiSotto Enotecca is another newfound love to hang out with friends! This underground bruschetteria below Francesca's has a divine wine selection on top of a warm and cozy ambiance. And yes, the bruschettas are ones you've never ever seen before!

Where do you go to satisfy your craving for pizza?

Hands down, Lou Malnati's! You're not a true Chicagoan unless you've had The Lou.

You run an annual conference for women bloggers. What do you recommend for a fun girls’ night out on the town, or for a business traveler looking for a quick but authentic taste of Chicago?

For my conference attendees that are in the lookout for some true Chicago tastes, I recommend places like Lou Malnati's for pizza and Mr. Beef for Italian Beef Sandwiches. But I love showing off or pointing them to local neighborhood restaurants like in Chinatown, Little Italy, Greektown, etc.

Where do you usually take your out of town guests?

For family guests, Navy Pier is always an easy choice. The Chicago Children's Museum is there and some pretty good restaurants for the adults to enjoy when the kids are all tired out.

What’s your favorite place to see the city skyline?

From a thousand feet up at the John Hancock Observatory! The view from all sides of the building is just drop dead gorgeous!

Finally, we’ve got to ask – are you a Sox or Cubs fan?

I'd have to say Sox since my neighbors may blast me outta here if I don't choose Sox. Haha