DO Chicago this Fall

Chicago is no new-be when it comes to an evolving art scene, conceptual restaurants or the ever so popular dive bar. Budgeting a "treat yourself" night out with your girl's can sometimes leave your wallet aching, followed by Netflix marathons for the rest of the month. Get yourself off the couch this fall & enjoy some of my personal go-tos in the Chi, when staying in just won't cut-it.

For the Art Enthusiast

Chicago Loop Alliance Activate
Interactive art installations done by local artists within Chicago loop's alley ways. Drinks, live dj, entertainment & photo booth provided.

When: Once a month- check out Do312.com to RSVP & get a free drink!


For the Foodie

Carriage House
Along the stretch of Division street in the heart of wicker park, this contemporary southern style restaurant & bar provides a relaxing front porch vibe with a crisp white patio adorned with tea lights overhead. Carriage house is a must-try for any brunch lover & foodie alike. Check out their tantalizing menu @ www.carriagehousechicago.com

Specialties: Southern comfort, fresh seafood & killer craft cocktails. *I recommend sipping on "the Voodoo Priestess"

For the "Rockers"

Five Star Bar 
For a night of free pool, whiskey induced fun & tat art ride on over to the Noble Square hot spot.

Deal Day: Wednesdays= 40 cent spicy buffalo wings (they're addicting) & $2 tecates 

For the Dancing Queen 

Beauty Bar 
Feeling in the mood for some disco vibes? Have a night out filled with dancing, vintage 60's decor & a fresh manicure. 

Events: Salonathon Mondays provide an open mic night for emerging Chicago artists to display & perform their original projects. Martinis & Manicures are a daily treat offering a $10 Combo deal


-The LeThriftista @styleprops

Chef de Le Thrift Does Mexi-CAN

Like many, I've caught myself having Taco Bell dreams while still expecting to wake up with a Beyoncé figure. Growing up with authentic Mexican dishes always on the menu, it became apparent once I moved to "hipster's paradise" that a local greasy burrito or a dry vegan taco was my fate.

Despite many failed attempts to cut out Mexican food all together, I began experimenting with traditional dishes. Instead of looking to take -out options or restaurants, I looked to my current grocery list to see what could be flavorful/healthy substitutes to the usual calorie packed, sodium filled meals. With a strong emphasis on vegetables (cooked various ways), for texture & spices found in original Latin cuisine, tasty meals that will yield all the flavor minus the belly are achievable!

First up on the menu that I like to call, "The Mexi-CAN" is one of my personal favorites- Molé ! 

Super easy, fast, & won't take away from the shoe budget! 

Ingredients: 

1 package of extra form tofu 

1 jar of mole sauce (spicy chocolate sauce)
Extra virgin olive oil

Fresh lime & lemon 

Cumin

Pinch of sea salt 

Various veggies of choice  

Grain of choice (brown rice or quinoa) 

Tajin seasoning 

Salsa/chile of choice 

- Simply drain the tofu, slice into thin strips & sauté in olive oil til golden brown.
- In a separate pot, make your grain of choice with a shot of lime or lemon for a zesty kick
-  Prepare veggie mix - any will do the trick but I used leafy greens like spinach & kale, carrots, zucchini & red bell pepper. Mix well with a sprinkle of olive oil & various seasonings listed.
- Nearing the final component, add a 1/2 jar of the mole sauce (I used Dona Maria brand) to saucepan   & stir til  thick, not chunky * adding a bit of  lime to sauce will cut the salt & give more of a dressing consistency
- Bring all items together for a mole bowl of sorts that will yield many flavors, minus the guilt & upstage any bland salad!
- Top with salsa or chile of choice

Chef de Le Thrift - Natalie