Shaun

Shaun, 29, single, was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.  This November will mark his 4th year in Chicago, where he is manager of the Drake Hotel's Palm Court, one of the most famous tea rooms in the world.

What neighborhood do you live in?
Boystown in Lakeview. It’s fun, with great stores and good cafés.  Boystown was the first officially recognized gay village in the United States, as well as the cultural center of one of the largest lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender (LGBT) communities in the nation.

What is your favorite thing about Chicago?
The diversity. The summers. Museums. People – friendly and helpful. The people! Chicago is filled with so many tremendous neighborhoods that represent cultures from around this world. The cultural street parties and events that happen through out the year give you the ability to experience a world within a grand city!  Also, the lakefront, skyline, music, and festivals...

Where do you like to go for fun?
Roscoe’s, for karaoke on Monday & Wednesday nights; Grand Lux Café for the Bento Box lunch special; the Four Seasons & The Drake Hotels for Afternoon Tea; and Sura Café a Thai bistro in Lakeview.

What is the best place in town for tea or coffee?
Afternoon tea at the Drake Hotel! I am not being biased, but I do a really good job!

What is your favorite restaurant and why?
I like Sunda. That’s my new favourite. It’s Asian and its very authentic.

Favorite place for quick bite to eat downtown?
Grand Lux Café or Gaylord Indian restaurant.

Favorite summertime activity?
Not much of beach person so that leaves dining, trying new restaurants and shopping !

Favorite place for brunch?
Four Seasons Hotel.

What’s a good place to hear live music or attend a concert?
The Drake on Saturday nights; it's the only hotel in Chicago with a swing band. The Coq D'Or has great music too.

Where do you like to bring visiting friends or out-of-town guests?
The Drake, the Museums, Harpo Studios, Freds at Barneys, Rush Street, the Historical Tour, Boystown! Shopping!

What is a hidden Chicago treasure to you?
The Powder Room at the Drake – voted the best powder room in the city! And, Hunan King, an authentic Chinese restaurant that has been here for over 20 years; the food is amazing!