CheekyChicago

I love everything with the word “lux” in it: luxurious, deluxe, luxury. There are lux blankets, lux throws, lux pillows, lux cashmere sweaters; you can wrap me in lux anything any day of the week, and I am one happy girl. Now combine “lux” with the word “bar” and this happy girl just got through-the-roof exhilarated. Luxbar is not necessarily… Read more

I don’t think I’m breaking any theatrical news here, but: The Book of Mormon is GENIUS. Super-smart, hysterically-funny, makes-you-think, politically-incorrect, kind of genius. Someone should give Trey Parker and Matt Stone a cookie. Or a Tony Award. Oh wait… I hate having expectations when walking into the theatre (like I did when I was 10-years-old anticipating my first Bernadette Peters… Read more

I walked into Anne Truppe’s North side photography studio feeling like $2.07 (the cost of my Starbucks coffee). But when I walked out a few hours later, I felt like a million bucks. Women today are strong, independent, in-the-know and – dare I say – extremely Cheeky. We make our own financial decisions, we decorate our apartments, we buy $400… Read more

You can’t pay me money to go to Navy Pier. I won’t touch it with a ten-foot pole. Screaming children. Dripping ice cream cones. Tourists reading maps…wearing pink Cubs T-shirts. Unless, of course, you take me on an all-you-can -drink boat trip on Lake Michigan… or wave crab legs in front of my face. On a pier full of cotton candy,… Read more

It’s pretty funny when we poke fun at ourselves, the technology that plagues us, and our interpersonal relationships, but when Second City does it… it’s just RIDICULOUS. Second City’s new e.t.c. show and 36th revue We’re All in This Room Together is a fabulous combination of improvisation, sketch comedy and sheer genius, tackling difficult (and thus very hilarious) subjects such… Read more

Volare has a very special place in my heart. In 2000, my dad took me to Chicago for the very first time to scope out Northwestern University. My mom had to stay home with my younger sister, so this was the first (and only) Father/Daughter trip I ever took. We flew into Midway, rented a car, coasted down Lakeshore Drive… Read more

I am not one for hyperbole, but the decadently wonderful graham elliot meal I had last week was one of the best I’ve had in a loooooooooooooong time. I had dined at the restaurant upon its opening in Chicago a few years ago and it was great. But this 15-course tasting dinner of their current spring dishes (make sure to… Read more

I’m a tried and true kind of gal when it comes to food, but I’m also a let’s-try-the-newest-hotspot or let’s-go-somewhere-near-where-I-parked-my-car kind of lady. I’m not really the let’s-hit-up-the-Viagra-Triangle-on-a-Saturday-night type of woman. That is until I was reminded of Rush and Division staple, Carmines. Although it’s highly unnecessary to don your finest duds or wear your highest heels (you might very… Read more

Chicago, meet THE best – I mean, the mac daddy, cream of the crop, icing on the cake – waxer in town. We all want need one, but don’t know where to find one – one that will hurt the least, charge us appropriately and leave us hair-free and happy. I am here to tell you that Rhonda Oakes, 2956… Read more

It has unknowingly become a tradition that I head to Benny’s Chop House every year around Valentine’s Day. I must subconsciously be craving the V-Day libations that master bartender/cocktail curator, Deirdre, puts together in February. So this past February was no exception. Before our reservation for what would be a decadent, true-Chicago, steakhouse dinner, Terry and I visited our friend,… Read more

Anti-aging. Ick. I can’t even accept the fact that I’m of an age where this four-letter word is part of my daily vocabulary. Although I take very good care of my skin and use high quality products, removing make-up even after a too-much-Champagne, stumble-into-bed kind of night, I am certainly not one to take it to the extreme. Botox? Never! … Read more

Race. The very word itself conjures up feelings of eeek, ick, why’d you just say that? The word has become very – shall we say? – racy over the years. We live in the middle of the world’s cultural melting pot; I have a healthy respect for all colors, religions and races – and believe everyone I love feels the… Read more

We went to Mei’s Corner on the coldest night of the year (thus far). All I wanted after shlepping around Michigan Avenue in the arctic temps was hot, big, filling, comforting, warm, bold, authentic Chinese food. Enter Mei’s Corner in the historic Whitehall Hotel. I had been told by a friend that Mei’s boasted some of the most authentic Asian… Read more

Rock of Ages has got to be one of the most fun shows I have ever seen. And not fun in the family-friendly sort of, clap your hands sort of, Disney-reminiscent sort of way. This is fun of the NC-17 variety. Like, have servers deliver drinks to your seats while listening to Whitesnake sort of fun. Rock of Ages is… Read more

Cheeky: When did you first become interested in interior design? Jillian Harris: I remember when I was a little girl I used to love decorating. I used to change my own room around on my own and paint my bedroom and bathroom before my parents got home from work. EYP [early years professional] – I was about 13-14 years old… Read more

I have been waiting for Bruce Norris’ next play for what feels like years.  And recently I started counting down the minutes until his 2011 Pulitzer Prize-winning Clybourne Park would make its World Premiere at Chicago’s very own Steppenwolf Theatre. I knew I would be enamored by the plot, the controversy and the humor; but the acting was what I… Read more

We’re sure you remember us putting you on the spot last month, inquiring as to what color of the Seven Daughters wine logo best represented you.  Turns out, our readers are one helluva group of colorful women.  After reading hundreds of responses resulting in major deliberations, we picked a Cheeky Chick that truly personified what we believe a blue, purple,… Read more

The W Hotel Lakeshore in Chicago is a sexy, sexy place.  So is the W in Manhattan, in Los Angeles, in Miami, in London, etc., etc., etc.  You catching my drift?  You riding my wave? The W Hotel’s lobby-adjacent restaurant, Wave, is no exception to this sexy rule.  The interior is sleek, there are ginormous booths lining the entire floor-to-ceiling… Read more

When you’re lucky enough to score prime restaurant real estate in the Gold Coast, you damn well better make it good. After CheekyChicago’s Fashion’s Night Out event last September, my girlfriends and I walked to the corner of Wabash and Chestnut to enjoy Troy Graves’ restaurant, Eve.  We had the most fashionably pleasant experience and were all very surprised when… Read more

I was excited the entire day I knew I would be having dinner at deca Restaurant + Bar at the Ritz Carlton with two of my favorite girlfriends. Dad said on the phone: “What are you doing tonight?” Me:  “Oh nothing. Just having dinner at the RITZ CARLTON.” Honestly, I felt pretty swanky.  Not gonna lie. As I pranced my… Read more

I was excited the entire day I knew I would be having dinner at deca Restaurant + Bar at the Ritz Carlton with two of my favorite girlfriends. Dad said on the phone: “What are you doing tonight?” Me:  “Oh nothing. Just having dinner at the RITZ CARLTON.” Honestly, I felt pretty swanky.  Not gonna lie. As I pranced my… Read more

I have two words for you:  Reese and Blue.  Learn these names now because you will want to use them when booking a hair appointment at the rockin’ Gold Coast salon, Maxine, appropriately named after the affable and equally adorable owner….Maxine Kroll. Reese and Blue, Blue and Reese – they sound like the headliners of tomorrow’s hot new superhero movie. … Read more

I have two words for you:  Reese and Blue.  Learn these names now because you will want to use them when booking a hair appointment at the rockin’ Gold Coast salon, Maxine, appropriately named after the affable and equally adorable owner….Maxine Kroll. Reese and Blue, Blue and Reese – they sound like the headliners of tomorrow’s hot new superhero movie. … Read more

In honor of my favorite Broadway musical finally making its way to Chicago, I would like to post my review of the original Broadway production that I saw two years ago.  Although our home town version was equally moving, stunning and, for lack of better words, great… there was one major change that caused me to like it a bit… Read more

In honor of my favorite Broadway musical finally making its way to Chicago, I would like to post my review of the original Broadway production that I saw two years ago.  Although our home town version was equally moving, stunning and, for lack of better words, great… there was one major change that caused me to like it a bit… Read more

There are three things all women hate to try on: bathing suits, jeans and bras.  It’s like the fitting rooms are just there to taunt us.  But, alas, it’s one of those pesky life annoyances that just needs to get done.  And what better way to do it than at the luxe, fun, fabulous and Cheeky boutique, Intimacy Bra Fit… Read more

There are three things all women hate to try on: bathing suits, jeans and bras.  It’s like the fitting rooms are just there to taunt us.  But, alas, it’s one of those pesky life annoyances that just needs to get done.  And what better way to do it than at the luxe, fun, fabulous and Cheeky boutique, Intimacy Bra Fit… Read more

The best thing about winter is that you’re allowed to eat heaping bowls of pasta, ginormous steaks, overflowing potatoes, veal scaloppini, trays of lasagna and every other delicious, delectable carb in the world with little to no judgment. I mean… we need the extra fuel (/fat) to insulate ourselves during Chicago’s brutal, brutal winters. Although spring will soon be sprung,… Read more

The best thing about winter is that you’re allowed to eat heaping bowls of pasta, ginormous steaks, overflowing potatoes, veal scaloppini, trays of lasagna and every other delicious, delectable carb in the world with little to no judgment. I mean… we need the extra fuel (/fat) to insulate ourselves during Chicago’s brutal, brutal winters. Although spring will soon be sprung,… Read more

Sex with Strangers? Sounds like a regular Saturday night for some (not all).  In this new, very contemporary play by Laura Eason, the whole sex with strangers thing is a regular weekly occurrence for main character Ethan (slimily but likeably played by Stephen Louis Grush) who makes a bet with friends that he could meet and have sex with women… Read more

Sex with Strangers? Sounds like a regular Saturday night for some (not all).  In this new, very contemporary play by Laura Eason, the whole sex with strangers thing is a regular weekly occurrence for main character Ethan (slimily but likeably played by Stephen Louis Grush) who makes a bet with friends that he could meet and have sex with women… Read more

I want to eat John Leguizamo with a spoon.  Seriously.  He is about five foot eight inches of pure energy, personality, comedy, sexiness, hilarity and humility.  Plus, he’s a badass dancer.  In Leguizamo’s limited, 11-day, pre-Broadway engagement at the Royal George Theatre, he absolutely commands the stage during his one-man show John Leguizamo Warms Up, to open on Broadway February… Read more

I want to eat John Leguizamo with a spoon.  Seriously.  He is about five foot eight inches of pure energy, personality, comedy, sexiness, hilarity and humility.  Plus, he’s a badass dancer.  In Leguizamo’s limited, 11-day, pre-Broadway engagement at the Royal George Theatre, he absolutely commands the stage during his one-man show John Leguizamo Warms Up, to open on Broadway February… Read more

“The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.” There is no Cheekier chick than the ever-entertaining, lovingly daffy, culinary master Julia Child.  Local food lovers and industry professionals alike obviously agree because ChicaGourmet hosted a Julia Child-inspired luncheon last week at one of the city’s best, female-chef-driven restaurants, NAHA.  A Cheeky Chick… Read more

“The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.” There is no Cheekier chick than the ever-entertaining, lovingly daffy, culinary master Julia Child.  Local food lovers and industry professionals alike obviously agree because ChicaGourmet hosted a Julia Child-inspired luncheon last week at one of the city’s best, female-chef-driven restaurants, NAHA.  A Cheeky Chick… Read more

Giuliana Rancic has it all. A dream job that requires (requires!) her to interview major celebrities on the red carpet (all while wearing fabulous gowns), a swoon-worthy hubby who adores her, a reality show documenting her wild, crazy, fun passionate life and – best of all – roots in the city of Chicago. Speaking of, Giuliana made an appearance last… Read more

Giuliana Rancic has it all. A dream job that requires (requires!) her to interview major celebrities on the red carpet (all while wearing fabulous gowns), a swoon-worthy hubby who adores her, a reality show documenting her wild, crazy, fun passionate life and – best of all – roots in the city of Chicago. Speaking of, Giuliana made an appearance last… Read more

As a Theatre major, I am embarrassed to say that I have never read Edward Albee’s famous play Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf. But when I saw Steppenwolf’s production last week, I was quite glad my schooling had failed me because the element of surprise/unknown made the play that much more…intense.  Enter Carrie Coon who embodies the role of Honey;… Read more

As a Theatre major, I am embarrassed to say that I have never read Edward Albee’s famous play Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf. But when I saw Steppenwolf’s production last week, I was quite glad my schooling had failed me because the element of surprise/unknown made the play that much more…intense.  Enter Carrie Coon who embodies the role of Honey;… Read more

I met my favorite new Cheeky Chicks on Monday night: Juliet, Lolita and Madame Rose.  No, these aren’t my favorite literary characters or the names of my future unborn children – they are the names of Goose Island’s newest Belgian brews, all monikers of hot, sexy, fabulous women. I was fortunate enough to hit up Goose Island’s launch of the… Read more

I met my favorite new Cheeky Chicks on Monday night: Juliet, Lolita and Madame Rose.  No, these aren’t my favorite literary characters or the names of my future unborn children – they are the names of Goose Island’s newest Belgian brews, all monikers of hot, sexy, fabulous women. I was fortunate enough to hit up Goose Island’s launch of the… Read more

I absolutely love Chicago Gourmet – in fact, I look forward to it all year.  C’mon…it is the premiere food and wine event in the city (although my personal favorite is the Green City Market Barbeque, bar none).  With a name like Chicago Gourmet, you prepare by saving up your calories for the week in anticipation of an indulgence in… Read more

I absolutely love Chicago Gourmet – in fact, I look forward to it all year.  C’mon…it is the premiere food and wine event in the city (although my personal favorite is the Green City Market Barbeque, bar none).  With a name like Chicago Gourmet, you prepare by saving up your calories for the week in anticipation of an indulgence in… Read more

The idea of a girls’ trip to wine country sounded perfect. Better than perfect. Who wouldn’t love to spend a few days with a favorite friend, sipping wine, sampling food and basking in California sunshine? We chose dates, booked a flight and toasted our upcoming vacation. And then we panicked. Where should we stay? What wineries should we visit? How… Read more

The idea of a girls’ trip to wine country sounded perfect. Better than perfect. Who wouldn’t love to spend a few days with a favorite friend, sipping wine, sampling food and basking in California sunshine? We chose dates, booked a flight and toasted our upcoming vacation. And then we panicked. Where should we stay? What wineries should we visit? How… Read more

Chicago chefs are chipping in once again to support the heinous oil spill in the Gulf.  On Sunday, July 25th, Chicago chefs, restaurants, brewers, wineries and distilleries will come together to benefit one of two Gulf Coast charitable funds: The Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Gulf Coast Oil Spill Fund (which benefits people affected by the spill) or Thibodaux, Louisiana’s The… Read more

Chicago chefs are chipping in once again to support the heinous oil spill in the Gulf.  On Sunday, July 25th, Chicago chefs, restaurants, brewers, wineries and distilleries will come together to benefit one of two Gulf Coast charitable funds: The Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Gulf Coast Oil Spill Fund (which benefits people affected by the spill) or Thibodaux, Louisiana’s The… Read more

According to the Michelin guide, Chicago is no longer the Second City.  Come mid-November – 110 years after the guide’s creation – Chicago restaurants will be scampering for their three stars. Last night, the culinary elite (along with the well-heeled media and press that love them), gathered at A New Leaf in Lincoln Park to celebrate the announcement of the… Read more

According to the Michelin guide, Chicago is no longer the Second City.  Come mid-November – 110 years after the guide’s creation – Chicago restaurants will be scampering for their three stars. Last night, the culinary elite (along with the well-heeled media and press that love them), gathered at A New Leaf in Lincoln Park to celebrate the announcement of the… Read more

If you’re looking for a perfect (semi) Staycation, Eagle Ridge is your answer. Located just four hours from the hustle and bustle of Chicago (hence the ‘semi’ part), you’ll feel more like you’re 12 hours away (which is a good thing when you’re trying to avoid emails, cell phones, car horns and nagging bosses). Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, located… Read more

If you’re looking for a perfect (semi) Staycation, Eagle Ridge is your answer. Located just four hours from the hustle and bustle of Chicago (hence the ‘semi’ part), you’ll feel more like you’re 12 hours away (which is a good thing when you’re trying to avoid emails, cell phones, car horns and nagging bosses). Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, located… Read more

My all-time favorite night of the year is, by far, the Tony Awards.  Call it the theatre dork in me, call it the showtune-lover, call it the fact that I’m just not that cool…however you cut it, I freaking love the Tonys.  And although I don’t practice the art that I so preach anymore, I will appreciate the artists, directors,… Read more

My all-time favorite night of the year is, by far, the Tony Awards.  Call it the theatre dork in me, call it the showtune-lover, call it the fact that I’m just not that cool…however you cut it, I freaking love the Tonys.  And although I don’t practice the art that I so preach anymore, I will appreciate the artists, directors,… Read more

Chef Rodelio Aglibot, aka the ‘Food Buddha’, is hot hot hot right now.  I sat down to lunch with the jovial chef and was able to ask him a few questions about his new gig with BLT, his upcoming TLC television show (appropriately titled Food Buddha), how he got his lovable nickname and what inspires his (damn good) cooking. You… Read more

Chef Rodelio Aglibot, aka the ‘Food Buddha’, is hot hot hot right now.  I sat down to lunch with the jovial chef and was able to ask him a few questions about his new gig with BLT, his upcoming TLC television show (appropriately titled Food Buddha), how he got his lovable nickname and what inspires his (damn good) cooking. You… Read more

In true Sex and the City 2 fashion, Cheeky searched high and low for the perfect Cosmopolitan recipe.  Although you may not catch Peter Vestinos, Beverage Director for the Wirtz Beverage Group, sipping the infamous pink cocktail with the likes of Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte or Miranda, he is an expert in all things libation-related.  That being said, here is the… Read more

In true Sex and the City 2 fashion, Cheeky searched high and low for the perfect Cosmopolitan recipe.  Although you may not catch Peter Vestinos, Beverage Director for the Wirtz Beverage Group, sipping the infamous pink cocktail with the likes of Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte or Miranda, he is an expert in all things libation-related.  That being said, here is the… Read more

The party’s not over at Pops for Champagne.  Well, it may be over in their subterranean jazz club, but the popular Monday industry night shindig created three years ago by Manager, Colleen Healy, is moving to Wicker Park’s The Exchange (formerly Sonotheque and Lava Lounge). Healy created the series, appropriately titled “Shift Drinks,” in an effort to bring together a… Read more

The party’s not over at Pops for Champagne.  Well, it may be over in their subterranean jazz club, but the popular Monday industry night shindig created three years ago by Manager, Colleen Healy, is moving to Wicker Park’s The Exchange (formerly Sonotheque and Lava Lounge). Healy created the series, appropriately titled “Shift Drinks,” in an effort to bring together a… Read more

Nic and Dino’s Tripoli Tap, known as Chicago’s #1 Boston sports bar, is doing something very un-sports-like and very culinar-ily progressive this summer.  Beginning Memorial Day weekend (as in this weekend), Nic and Dino’s hosts a lobster broil every Sunday night through Labor Day.  For $25-$30 (depending on market price), you can sit at the bar (or on their 75-seat… Read more

Nic and Dino’s Tripoli Tap, known as Chicago’s #1 Boston sports bar, is doing something very un-sports-like and very culinar-ily progressive this summer.  Beginning Memorial Day weekend (as in this weekend), Nic and Dino’s hosts a lobster broil every Sunday night through Labor Day.  For $25-$30 (depending on market price), you can sit at the bar (or on their 75-seat… Read more

HUB51, your trendy River North cocktail and food hub, is asking you to Drink Pink…but not until last night when they rolled out their new, non-released summer cocktail menu, featuring the Pomegranate Mojito, The Prickly Pear Margarita, and The Txakoli Rosé (a light, effervescent wine from the Basque region of Spain).  The final cocktail of the new Drink Pink menu… Read more

HUB51, your trendy River North cocktail and food hub, is asking you to Drink Pink…but not until last night when they rolled out their new, non-released summer cocktail menu, featuring the Pomegranate Mojito, The Prickly Pear Margarita, and The Txakoli Rosé (a light, effervescent wine from the Basque region of Spain).  The final cocktail of the new Drink Pink menu… Read more

Napa Valley Chardonnay, Alsatian Pinot Blanc, French Burgundy…Greek Athiri/Assyrtiko Blend?  I know you’re thinking, ‘which one of these is not like the other’?  Last night, NAHA (whose captain – James Beard Award-winning Chef Carrie Nahabedian – is of Armenian roots) hosted a late night wine tasting with the producers of Greek wineries Domaine Skouras, Domaine Sigalas and Alpha Estate –… Read more

Napa Valley Chardonnay, Alsatian Pinot Blanc, French Burgundy…Greek Athiri/Assyrtiko Blend?  I know you’re thinking, ‘which one of these is not like the other’?  Last night, NAHA (whose captain – James Beard Award-winning Chef Carrie Nahabedian – is of Armenian roots) hosted a late night wine tasting with the producers of Greek wineries Domaine Skouras, Domaine Sigalas and Alpha Estate –… Read more

Chicago’s Blackhawks are flying high this season (did you not catch the other night’s Game 6 clincher?) and the city’s bars and restaurants are celebrating. In honor of the Hawks kicking butt, Geisha Sushi & Lounge is offering up a special maki roll – appropriately titled the Blackhawks Roll – with seasoned blue crab over soft shell crab with cilantro,… Read more

Chicago’s Blackhawks are flying high this season (did you not catch the other night’s Game 6 clincher?) and the city’s bars and restaurants are celebrating. In honor of the Hawks kicking butt, Geisha Sushi & Lounge is offering up a special maki roll – appropriately titled the Blackhawks Roll – with seasoned blue crab over soft shell crab with cilantro,… Read more

The sexy sounding Champagne, Veuve Clicquot, actually translates in English to the ‘Widow Clicquot.’  Poor Mrs. Clicquot’s husband died in 1806, leaving the 27-year-old woman in charge of running a bubbly empire – let’s call her the original female entrepreneur (lush is debatable).  Lucky for Chicagoans, the U.S. Brand Director from New York, Geraud Leclercq (no relation to the Clicquots)… Read more

The sexy sounding Champagne, Veuve Clicquot, actually translates in English to the ‘Widow Clicquot.’  Poor Mrs. Clicquot’s husband died in 1806, leaving the 27-year-old woman in charge of running a bubbly empire – let’s call her the original female entrepreneur (lush is debatable).  Lucky for Chicagoans, the U.S. Brand Director from New York, Geraud Leclercq (no relation to the Clicquots)… Read more

Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage from the maguey plant, a form of agave.  Jimmy Buffett may have sung about Margaritaville, but Chicago is taking agave-based spirits to a whole new level. The smoky, heated, earthy, red-hot spirit is popping up in cocktails at the hottest of the hottest bars and restaurants in the city.  New York’s recent Midwest transplant,… Read more

Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage from the maguey plant, a form of agave.  Jimmy Buffett may have sung about Margaritaville, but Chicago is taking agave-based spirits to a whole new level. The smoky, heated, earthy, red-hot spirit is popping up in cocktails at the hottest of the hottest bars and restaurants in the city.  New York’s recent Midwest transplant,… Read more

Sometimes you just want to be in the thick of it all.  And at the Park Hyatt Chicago, you don’t really have another choice.  Just steps away from the historic Water Tower building, blocks away from Lake Michigan, and right in the heart of Chicago’s downtown shopping district, the Park Hyatt majestically towers over the Michigan Avenue shoppers, tourists, and… Read more

Sometimes you just want to be in the thick of it all.  And at the Park Hyatt Chicago, you don’t really have another choice.  Just steps away from the historic Water Tower building, blocks away from Lake Michigan, and right in the heart of Chicago’s downtown shopping district, the Park Hyatt majestically towers over the Michigan Avenue shoppers, tourists, and… Read more

Gardening is so not for your grandma anymore.  With the “Go Green’ movement in full swing, planting herbs, shopping locally, cooking organically, growing flowers, and potting plants is oh-so-trendy.  And Macy’s – the trendsetting entity that it is – is all about going green this month.  From March 28 through April 11, hit up the State Street shopping mecca for… Read more

Gardening is so not for your grandma anymore.  With the “Go Green’ movement in full swing, planting herbs, shopping locally, cooking organically, growing flowers, and potting plants is oh-so-trendy.  And Macy’s – the trendsetting entity that it is – is all about going green this month.  From March 28 through April 11, hit up the State Street shopping mecca for… Read more

Being Cheeky is practicing camaraderie with your colleagues, with other women, with female professionals in your field.  And because we were feeling a bit Cheeky this week…per usual, we interviewed the managing editor of one of our favorite Chi-town pubs, Cassandra Gaddo.  Let’s promote women who are doing big things, going great places, and serving the city we love.  That’s… Read more

Being Cheeky is practicing camaraderie with your colleagues, with other women, with female professionals in your field.  And because we were feeling a bit Cheeky this week…per usual, we interviewed the managing editor of one of our favorite Chi-town pubs, Cassandra Gaddo.  Let’s promote women who are doing big things, going great places, and serving the city we love.  That’s… Read more

Our Cheeky Charity pick of the month this February was the Kiss My ALS fundraiser (c’mon, it’s even got a cheeky name!).  I was lucky enough to celebrate life and do my part in helping to create a world free of ALS on February 10th at the LaSalle Power Company.  For $40, guests enjoyed Champagne poured by celebrity restaurateurs, gift bags,… Read more

Our Cheeky Charity pick of the month this February was the Kiss My ALS fundraiser (c’mon, it’s even got a cheeky name!).  I was lucky enough to celebrate life and do my part in helping to create a world free of ALS on February 10th at the LaSalle Power Company.  For $40, guests enjoyed Champagne poured by celebrity restaurateurs, gift bags,… Read more

Finding a good salon is like finding the perfect pair of black stiletto boots.  The search is painful – trying on style after style – but in the end, it fits perfectly. Such was the case when I stumbled (probably because of my senseless stilettos) into Red 7 Salon on Kinzie Street a few days ago. After climbing a fantastically… Read more

Finding a good salon is like finding the perfect pair of black stiletto boots.  The search is painful – trying on style after style – but in the end, it fits perfectly. Such was the case when I stumbled (probably because of my senseless stilettos) into Red 7 Salon on Kinzie Street a few days ago. After climbing a fantastically… Read more

This week’s ‘Scene’ page is dedicated to an inspiring group of high school students. I was lucky/honored enough to be invited to speak at the Chicago Virtual Charter School in the West Loop a couple of weeks ago. I’m quite certain that the teenagers I spoke to taught me more than I could ever teach them. I tried to convey… Read more

This week’s ‘Scene’ page is dedicated to an inspiring group of high school students. I was lucky/honored enough to be invited to speak at the Chicago Virtual Charter School in the West Loop a couple of weeks ago. I’m quite certain that the teenagers I spoke to taught me more than I could ever teach them. I tried to convey… Read more

1. Michael Kors. Baby, it’s cold outside. Keep your tootsies warm this holiday season with that classic winter wardrobe staple: boots. Stop by Michael Kors at the 900 North Michigan Avenue Shops and keep toasty in style (and on a budget). Receive 40% off all MK boots and 30% off Michael by Michael Kors boots. While supplies last. 2. Tiffany… Read more

1. Michael Kors. Baby, it’s cold outside. Keep your tootsies warm this holiday season with that classic winter wardrobe staple: boots. Stop by Michael Kors at the 900 North Michigan Avenue Shops and keep toasty in style (and on a budget). Receive 40% off all MK boots and 30% off Michael by Michael Kors boots. While supplies last. 2. Tiffany… Read more

You can customize it all these days: your house, your ride, your iPhone, even your dog (who knew Malteses and Yorkies could make a Morkie?). Why not customize a shirt for your man? You know what he likes; you probably know his style better than he does (or, at least, you hope you do – that flannel he brought home… Read more

You can customize it all these days: your house, your ride, your iPhone, even your dog (who knew Malteses and Yorkies could make a Morkie?). Why not customize a shirt for your man? You know what he likes; you probably know his style better than he does (or, at least, you hope you do – that flannel he brought home… Read more

Beth Curry, one of the theatre world’s cheekiest chicks, currently stars in Young Frankenstein. She dishes with us on what it’s like to play the monstrously (ha) famous role of Bride of Frankenstein, “deep love” and just what it is that Chicago’s got in its water. Cheeky: How does it feel playing such an iconic character as Elizabeth/Bride of Frankenstein?… Read more

Beth Curry, one of the theatre world’s cheekiest chicks, currently stars in Young Frankenstein. She dishes with us on what it’s like to play the monstrously (ha) famous role of Bride of Frankenstein, “deep love” and just what it is that Chicago’s got in its water. Cheeky: How does it feel playing such an iconic character as Elizabeth/Bride of Frankenstein?… Read more

I may be dating myself here, but Caboodles (you know those gaudy cotton candy and purple-colored cosmetic case organizers) ran rampant in my childhood. Circa the 80s and 90s, no ‘tween was left behind without one. Caboodles escorted young girls everywhere to school and to summer camp, and housed their Hard Candy nail polish, Tony & Tina sparkly eyeshadows and,… Read more

I may be dating myself here, but Caboodles (you know those gaudy cotton candy and purple-colored cosmetic case organizers) ran rampant in my childhood. Circa the 80s and 90s, no ‘tween was left behind without one. Caboodles escorted young girls everywhere to school and to summer camp, and housed their Hard Candy nail polish, Tony & Tina sparkly eyeshadows and,… Read more

Modern-Vintage may sound like an oxymoron, but when it comes to the Modern Vintage Holiday Market, it’s not oxymoronic at all. In fact, it just goes to prove that opposites really do attract. On November 21 and 22 (with extended hours on Sunday), shoppers can one-stop-shop-it at the third annual rendition of this merry festival, located indoors at the beautiful… Read more

Modern-Vintage may sound like an oxymoron, but when it comes to the Modern Vintage Holiday Market, it’s not oxymoronic at all. In fact, it just goes to prove that opposites really do attract. On November 21 and 22 (with extended hours on Sunday), shoppers can one-stop-shop-it at the third annual rendition of this merry festival, located indoors at the beautiful… Read more

Joey Slotnick – actor, funnyman, Chicagoan, foodie – just a few words that pop to mind. You may recognize Joey from such shows and movies as Nip/Tuck, Family Guy, Hollow Man, Blast from the Past and Twister. Joey has now made his triumphant return to the Chicago stage as Groucho Marx (in full costume, they even look alike) in the… Read more

Joey Slotnick – actor, funnyman, Chicagoan, foodie – just a few words that pop to mind. You may recognize Joey from such shows and movies as Nip/Tuck, Family Guy, Hollow Man, Blast from the Past and Twister. Joey has now made his triumphant return to the Chicago stage as Groucho Marx (in full costume, they even look alike) in the… Read more

Alayna Gallo is a cheeky chick. A cheeky chick who holds her own on stage every night with the boys of Jersey. Cheeky sat down and asked this East-coaster why she’s totally in love with Chicago (as if we couldn’t guess), what it’s like to be an honorary Jersey Boy and why she just loves her some live-band karaoke at… Read more

Alayna Gallo is a cheeky chick. A cheeky chick who holds her own on stage every night with the boys of Jersey. Cheeky sat down and asked this East-coaster why she’s totally in love with Chicago (as if we couldn’t guess), what it’s like to be an honorary Jersey Boy and why she just loves her some live-band karaoke at… Read more

Braun Pharmacy turned Gemini Bistro is the newest restaurant to hit residential Lincoln Park. Instead of Tylenol, Cortisone cream and Pepcid lining the shelves, however, Gemini’s got pork belly, pinot gris and oxtail ravioli lining their menu. We originally scheduled our reservation for 7 pm on Sunday, Sept. 13th – the day the Bears played their first game of the… Read more

Braun Pharmacy turned Gemini Bistro is the newest restaurant to hit residential Lincoln Park. Instead of Tylenol, Cortisone cream and Pepcid lining the shelves, however, Gemini’s got pork belly, pinot gris and oxtail ravioli lining their menu. We originally scheduled our reservation for 7 pm on Sunday, Sept. 13th – the day the Bears played their first game of the… Read more

Remember that scene from the Sex and the City movie, where Samantha covers her naked body in homemade sushi and waits for Smith to come home on Valentine’s Day to eat it off of her? Well, getting a seaweed wrap at Spa La La feels a little like that, except less fishy smelling and a whole lot less sexual. Coined… Read more

Remember that scene from the Sex and the City movie, where Samantha covers her naked body in homemade sushi and waits for Smith to come home on Valentine’s Day to eat it off of her? Well, getting a seaweed wrap at Spa La La feels a little like that, except less fishy smelling and a whole lot less sexual. Coined… Read more

CheekyChicago.com and Henson Consulting have teamed up to throw you one helluva party! On August 27th (and again last night), SUB51 (the awesome, subterranean counterpart to the ever-popular HUB51) hosted a ‘Meet the Cheeky Writers’ event. Grey Goose was consumed (complimentary and in plentitude); and sweet potato rolls, short rib tacos, mini cheeseburgers and tuna poke was enjoyed by all.… Read more

CheekyChicago.com and Henson Consulting have teamed up to throw you one helluva party! On August 27th (and again last night), SUB51 (the awesome, subterranean counterpart to the ever-popular HUB51) hosted a ‘Meet the Cheeky Writers’ event. Grey Goose was consumed (complimentary and in plentitude); and sweet potato rolls, short rib tacos, mini cheeseburgers and tuna poke was enjoyed by all.… Read more

The Peninsula Hotel and Mary Poppins have one thing in common: they’re both practically perfect in every way. Tourists, city-dwellers, Brangelina, businessmen, bachelorettes – everyone can enjoy the beauty that is the big P. Fun fact: Peninsula Hotels all over the world are only located on the most premiere, most esteemed, most convenient and most luxurious streets, corners and intersections… Read more

The Peninsula Hotel and Mary Poppins have one thing in common: they’re both practically perfect in every way. Tourists, city-dwellers, Brangelina, businessmen, bachelorettes – everyone can enjoy the beauty that is the big P. Fun fact: Peninsula Hotels all over the world are only located on the most premiere, most esteemed, most convenient and most luxurious streets, corners and intersections… Read more

What girl would turn down a daring dress, a banging bangle bracelet, a stunning stiletto or a happenin’ handbag? What girl wouldn’t kill to have all of the above for less than $100?!? Calling all recessionistas, economistas and thriftonistas: your mecca of fashion meets frugality has arrived in Chicago (and Woodfield too)! Opening August 27th and housed in the historic… Read more

What girl would turn down a daring dress, a banging bangle bracelet, a stunning stiletto or a happenin’ handbag? What girl wouldn’t kill to have all of the above for less than $100?!? Calling all recessionistas, economistas and thriftonistas: your mecca of fashion meets frugality has arrived in Chicago (and Woodfield too)! Opening August 27th and housed in the historic… Read more

Who doesn’t love food – especially when one lives in the culinary capital of the world (what can we say – we’re modest)? Who doesn’t love vino and specialty cocktails? Who doesn’t love a good old fashioned game of cards? You’re probably thinking…which of these is not like the other? Well, with the advent of Natasha Liberman’s brainchild, a la… Read more

Who doesn’t love food – especially when one lives in the culinary capital of the world (what can we say – we’re modest)? Who doesn’t love vino and specialty cocktails? Who doesn’t love a good old fashioned game of cards? You’re probably thinking…which of these is not like the other? Well, with the advent of Natasha Liberman’s brainchild, a la… Read more

Barack Obama and ‘Mom/Dad Jeans’ in the same sentence? You’d never have thunk it, but Mr. President made that a reality when he threw out the first pitch at the All-Star baseball game a couple of weeks ago. Why couldn’t he have asked, WWMOW? (What Would Michele Obama wear?) before he left the (White) house? Or, alternatively, why couldn’t he… Read more

Barack Obama and ‘Mom/Dad Jeans’ in the same sentence? You’d never have thunk it, but Mr. President made that a reality when he threw out the first pitch at the All-Star baseball game a couple of weeks ago. Why couldn’t he have asked, WWMOW? (What Would Michele Obama wear?) before he left the (White) house? Or, alternatively, why couldn’t he… Read more

There’s no greater combination than wine and fashion. Right? A sip of viognier while dressing/primping for a night on the town; a flute of sparkling while watching a fashion show in Grant Park; a big glass of cabarnet while staring at your closet and deciding what to keep, chuck or donate. Yes, a great combination indeed. Little Black Dress Wines… Read more

There’s no greater combination than wine and fashion. Right? A sip of viognier while dressing/primping for a night on the town; a flute of sparkling while watching a fashion show in Grant Park; a big glass of cabarnet while staring at your closet and deciding what to keep, chuck or donate. Yes, a great combination indeed. Little Black Dress Wines… Read more

Who doesn’t love to be rubbed, touched and lathered with oil? Oh, oh, oh…get your mind out of the gutter! Ew. We’re talking about massages here. The new and oh-so-hip hotel, theWit, is most certainly the talk of the town. Hipsters, professionals and socialites alike are flocking to Roof for their happy hour martinis; (some) people are digging the street… Read more

Who doesn’t love to be rubbed, touched and lathered with oil? Oh, oh, oh…get your mind out of the gutter! Ew. We’re talking about massages here. The new and oh-so-hip hotel, theWit, is most certainly the talk of the town. Hipsters, professionals and socialites alike are flocking to Roof for their happy hour martinis; (some) people are digging the street… Read more

I attended a press conference with Mayor Daley last Thursday. Even though he’s a White Sox fan (and a self-proclaimed Cubs non-enthusiast), I like the guy. A lot. And it’s no secret that he loves a good meal. That’s the reason why he was the keynote speaker at the Illinois Restaurant Association’s press conference for 2009’s Chicago Gourmet event. This… Read more

I attended a press conference with Mayor Daley last Thursday. Even though he’s a White Sox fan (and a self-proclaimed Cubs non-enthusiast), I like the guy. A lot. And it’s no secret that he loves a good meal. That’s the reason why he was the keynote speaker at the Illinois Restaurant Association’s press conference for 2009’s Chicago Gourmet event. This… Read more

Musical theatre falls somewhere right after food and right before wine on my giant list of favorite things in the world. Musical theatre to me is what chocolate is to Hershey – my sustenance. And Broadway musical theatre – well, that’s just a big ole cherry on my sundae. Coming to you live from New York is Cheeky’s first Broadway… Read more

Musical theatre falls somewhere right after food and right before wine on my giant list of favorite things in the world. Musical theatre to me is what chocolate is to Hershey – my sustenance. And Broadway musical theatre – well, that’s just a big ole cherry on my sundae. Coming to you live from New York is Cheeky’s first Broadway… Read more

Chicago is a destination city. Since we live here, however, we may not always feel that way. We take bike rides on the Lake Shore for granted, we forget that Millennium Park even exists and we don’t always hit up the Broadway transplants that dot our very inspiring theatre district. With the economy in the pits, why not shun your… Read more

Chicago is a destination city. Since we live here, however, we may not always feel that way. We take bike rides on the Lake Shore for granted, we forget that Millennium Park even exists and we don’t always hit up the Broadway transplants that dot our very inspiring theatre district. With the economy in the pits, why not shun your… Read more

Ashley Brown, who originated the role of Mary Poppins on Broadway, is a practically perfect performer. I was lucky enough to catch her quirky, memorable, campy, lovely rendition of the umbrella-toting, child-rearing Disney character last week at the Cadillac Palace Theatre. As a self-proclaimed fan of the umpteenth degree of the incomparable Julie Andrews, Ms. Ashley Brown lived up to… Read more

Ashley Brown, who originated the role of Mary Poppins on Broadway, is a practically perfect performer. I was lucky enough to catch her quirky, memorable, campy, lovely rendition of the umbrella-toting, child-rearing Disney character last week at the Cadillac Palace Theatre. As a self-proclaimed fan of the umpteenth degree of the incomparable Julie Andrews, Ms. Ashley Brown lived up to… Read more

Word on the street is that Johnny Depp, Marion Cotillard and their fellow co-stars, producers, directors and castmates hung out at the upstairs bar of Gibsons after the Public Enemies premiere last Thursday night. Was I surprised when I heard this news? Um…no. Gibsons is one of the most famous, classic, old-school restaurants in the city. Johnny Depp’s got good… Read more

Word on the street is that Johnny Depp, Marion Cotillard and their fellow co-stars, producers, directors and castmates hung out at the upstairs bar of Gibsons after the Public Enemies premiere last Thursday night. Was I surprised when I heard this news? Um…no. Gibsons is one of the most famous, classic, old-school restaurants in the city. Johnny Depp’s got good… Read more

What does a girl buy (/do/make) for her dad on the one Sunday a year that’s dedicated to him, him and only him? It’s hard to nail down a perfect present for the man who gave you life, taught you how to ride your first pink bicycle, threw you your first softball pitch, cried at your first ballet recital and… Read more

What does a girl buy (/do/make) for her dad on the one Sunday a year that’s dedicated to him, him and only him? It’s hard to nail down a perfect present for the man who gave you life, taught you how to ride your first pink bicycle, threw you your first softball pitch, cried at your first ballet recital and… Read more

Alexandra Levit is an inspiring public speaker, author, advice-giver and all-around Cheeky dynamo. It ain’t easy finding a job, especially in this economy, but Alexandra knows how to make that happen. After all, she has made a living writing books (They Don’t Teach Corporate in College, How’d You Score That Gig? and Success for Hire) and speaking on the very… Read more

Alexandra Levit is an inspiring public speaker, author, advice-giver and all-around Cheeky dynamo. It ain’t easy finding a job, especially in this economy, but Alexandra knows how to make that happen. After all, she has made a living writing books (They Don’t Teach Corporate in College, How’d You Score That Gig? and Success for Hire) and speaking on the very… Read more