Rob B.

Rob, 38, is a librarian for the Chicago Public Library's McKinley Park branch. He is married to the love of his life, with three beautiful children, and lives in Garfield Ridge his whole life. 

What do you like best about living in Garfield Ridge?

Nice and quiet, close enough to downtown but also close to suburbs.

What do you consider to be your neighborhood’s best hidden or undiscovered gem?

The many great Pizza places along Archer Avenue.

What is the best way to explore your neighborhood?

Is it particularly walkable or bike-friendly? It is definitely bike friendly and everything is in walking distance.

What would you consider to be not-to-be-missed restaurants in your neighborhood? Home Run Inn Pizza, Villa Rosa Pizza.

Are there any big festivals or popular public events that take place in your neighborhood?

Many neighborhood carnivals and parades.

Are there any noteworthy or unique retailers to be found only in your neighborhood?

Weber’s Bakery on Archer.

Where is the best place to grab a cup of coffee in your neighborhood?

Dunkin Donuts

What are five words you would use to describe your neighborhood?

Quiet, well kept, family oriented, accessible, picturesque

What are some ways that residents show their neighborhood pride?

During the parades people proudly display flags

Tell us what you know about the history of your neighborhood.
Former mayor “Long” John Wentworth owned most of the land in the area, 4700 acres, from the days of the I & M canal and over time his land was sold to developers. He operated a farm he called the “Summit Farm” and his farmhouse sat on the corner of Archer Avenue and Harlem until 1968.

What is a popular gathering place in the neighborhood?

Bohica’s Bar

What are some popular spots to bring children in the neighborhood? 
The many parks in the area as well as Midway Airport to see the planes.

Now, for some more general Chicago-related questions, what is your favorite thing about the city?

The history of the city and the many great diverse neighborhoods which result in many great diverse restaraunts.

Where do you like to go for fun?

The park with my kids, Navy Pier, U.S. Cellular Field

What is your favorite restaurant in the city?

Can’t narrow it down to one but Rosebud’s, Weber Grill and Joe’s Crab Shack are a good start

What is your favorite pizza place?

Again hard to narrow it down to one but Giordano’s is great as well as Danny’s Pizza on Archer.

What is your favorite season, and seasonal Chicago activity and/or event?

Summer of course, going down to Navy Pier or the Zoo.

Cubs or Sox fan?

Sox 100%

Do you have a favorite Chicago tradition?

Going to the summer neighborhood festivals

What’s the best place to view the city skyline?

From a tour boat on Lake Michigan

Where do you like to bring visiting friends or out-of-town guests?

Midway Airport