Category: Chicago Dining

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Granville

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Granville

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This is Granville. Doors open on the left at Granville. This is a red line train to Howard. Hey everyone, welcome back to the ninth installment of Explore Chicago CTA Edition! As always, I’m your student blogger and excited eater, Miguel Molina! Today, we are going to be having some fun with both eats and treats down at the CTA’s Granville stop. Be sure to bring your student ID card, ventra card (u-pass), trusty walking shoes and as always, a hungry belly. So come on, let’s go out and explore!

Getting to Granville:

Unlike the other sites on the Red Line, I would not recommend taking the Loyola intercampus shuttle bus. Granville is only a stop south of Loyola. You heard that right, only one stop away. Because of this, here are the two quick ways to get to the neighborhood. First, the easiest way. You can take the CTA Red Line train from Loyola down south to 95th/Dan Ryan toward Granville (it has its own stop). The trip down will take you around 1-2 minutes at most. Secondly, you can always take an Uber or a Lyft to take you from Loyola’s Lakeshore Campus. This would take you around the same amount of time as taking the CTA. But for an even more scenic and leisure way, you can walk down Kenmore Avenue and turn on Granville avenue. It’s only a few blocks away from campus.

Restaurants and Awesome Eats:

  • Ann Sather’s: Looking for a place to brunch with your friends or a craving a traditional Swedish breakfast? Look no further than Ann Sather’s. This restaurant has fond memories for me. I went here for a group brunch with my UNIV 101 class where we got to sample a traditional Swedish breakfast. We all got a plate of eggs, bacon (who can say no to bacon to be honest), and of course Swedish pancakes. But, the biggest thing to try here are their Cinnamon Rolls. These sweet, soft pieces of goodness are the size of salad plates and come with two (if you pick them as your side, which I would highly recommend to you). http://www.annsather.com/restmenus/restbreakfast.html  

 

  • Dak: Craving chicken wings, bibimbap, or beef bulgogi? Located close to Ann Sather’s is Dak, a Korean Style Chicken fusion. This food makes excellent pre-gaming food and great finger licking food with your friends. While the chicken is on the pricier side, the food is for sure quality. This is a great hangout place regardless of the occasion. To show off their fusion skills, your appetizers can be either potstickers, fried squid sticks, or seasoned french fries! Check out their menu here: http://www.dakchicken.com/menu/
  • Lickity Split: You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream! Need a place to satisfy your sweet tooth? Head over to Lickity Split and treat yourself to some sundaes. Whether you want a frozen custard (with tasty toppings), concretes (thick and creamy goodness), or are looking for a shake or a malt; your up for some quality sweetness! This is a great place to hangout with your friends, a date, or by yourself! To look at what this place offers, check out their menu here: https://www.lickitysplitchicago.com/menus/lickity-split-menu

 

Still looking for more to visit and wonderful places to eat? Be sure to tune in during the week of April 10th as we go and start to explore more at the Morse stop on this edition of Explore Chicago CTA Edition. Doors closing.

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Argyle

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Argyle

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This is Argyle. Doors open on the left at Argyle. This is a red line train to Howard. Hey everyone, welcome back to the eighth installment of Explore Chicago CTA Edition! As always, I’m your blogger and happy eater, Miguel Molina! Today, we are going to be having some fun with both eats and treats down at the CTA’s Argyle stop “Little Vietnam”/”Vietnamese Town”. Be sure to bring your student ID card, ventra card (u-pass), and as always, a hungry belly. So come on, let’s go out and explore!

Getting to Argyle:

Unlike the other sites on the Red Line, I would not recommend taking the Loyola intercampus shuttle bus. Argyle is only a few stops south of Loyola, five to be exact. Because of this, here are the two quick ways to get to the neighborhood. First, the easiest way. You can take the CTA Red Line train from Loyola down south to 95th/Dan Ryan toward Argyle (it has its own stop). The trip down will take you around 10-15 minutes at most. Secondly, you can always take an Uber or a Lyft to take you from Loyola’s Lakeshore Campus. This would take you around the same amount of time as taking the CTA. Beware the busiest times for traffic so you are not stuck. As with any other place in the city, be aware of the time of day that you plan to visit these sites.

Restaurants and Awesome Eats:

Pho 777: Looking for a way to keep warm? Look no further than a bowl of hot, steaming pho at Pho 777! This eatery on the main strip of Argyle is home to some of the best Pho in the neighborhood. For those who don’t know, pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup with aromatic herbs, a broth made with beef bones, and noodles. Usually it is made with either chicken or beef. Personally, I prefer the cuts of beef with pho. For those who want an extra crunchy flavor, bean sprouts or on hand. For a stronger taste, thai basil. But if you are craving to open up your sinuses, there are enough spicy peppers to add to your liking. While the restaurant does offer other great tasting traditional Vietnamese cooking, this is definitely a place to have pho with friends anyday!

(https://www.yelp.com/biz/pho-777-chicago)

Sun Wah BBQ: For those of us on a student budget but want quality, great tasting, authentic Chinese cooking, Sun Wah BBQ is a place that should be on your list! I usually get their roast duck (which is fresh from the window display, so you know it is fresh), roast pork (so flavorful, crunchy, and oh so hearty), and their beef chow fun (thicker noodle with strips of tender beef). You can then wash it all down with one of their dumpling soups. Shrimp, pork, and woodland mushroom dumpling soup is always a favorite! This is a great place to bring your friends to sample and try a bunch of different dishes. Be aware this is not your American Chinese restaurant but authentic Chinese!

(http://www.sunwahbbq.com)

Save Room for Dessert:

Kung Fu Tea: After all that you ate, make sure you head to Kung Fu Tea to wash it all down! With a wide selection of milk tea, slushies, and other tea drinks; this is a great place for snacks and dessert. Being a coconut aficionado, I go for their coconut milk tea which is creamy goodness! If you are more into tropical fruit drinks, you can also find these here!

(https://www.kungfutea.com)

Still looking for more to visit? Be sure to tune in March 27, 2018 as we go and start to explore more at Granville on this edition of Explore Chicago CTA Edition. Doors closing.

Explore Chicago: Spring Break Special

Explore Chicago: Spring Break Special

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The weather is finally getting warmer, the jackets are getting lighter, and the grass is trying to get greener; spring is slowly but surely making its way to Chicago! Here at Loyola, this coming week, we are getting ready for our Spring Break. Whether you live in Chicago and want to explore more of the city or you are from out of state/country and want to find places to hang out and check out, this is the blog post for you! Unlike my Explore Chicago CTA Edition segment of my blog, I will be focusing in on certain neighborhoods you should definitely check out during the break. So make sure you bring along your ventra card, your friends, and, as always, bring an empty stomach!

Pilsen: Do you enjoy traditional, quality Latino food? Then Pilsen is definitely the place to check out! This Hispanic community is full of life, color, and food. Throughout the town, many of the walls are covered with Chicano murals depicting both real life as well as contemporary  mythological beings. An attraction to see while your in town is the National Museum of Mexican Art. This museum is free to the public and is a great way to gain a glimpse of Mexican culture (you should see this place during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). If you are looking for great places for food, be sure to check out places that serve authentic tacos, horchata, or jamaíca (hibiscus flower water)! You can never go wrong with what you order 🙂

For more information on the museum on current exhibits and events, be sure to check out: http://nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org

Wicker Park: Often labeled as Chicago’s “hipster district”, Wicker Park is the place for those who want the alternative experience. From used record shops, to antique furniture stores, to four level bookstores; this is a great place for you and your friends to hang out. Wicker Park is known for its many boutique bakeries and businesses that line the streets. When you are here make sure you pick some quality Stan’s Doughnuts (you can never stop eating at one) and grab a book (or BOOKS if you are me) at Myopic Books.

For more information on Stan’s Doughnuts (with their extensive menu) and Myopic Books, be sure to check out the links attached: http://stansdonutschicago.com and http://www.myopicbookstore.com

Hope you all have an awesome Spring Break and see you the following week as we go back on the CTA Red Line to explore more of the North Side of the city! See you then!

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Addison

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Addison

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This is Addison. Doors open on the right at Addison. This is a red line train to Howard. Hey everyone, welcome back to the seventh installment of Explore Chicago CTA Edition! As always, I’m your blogger, Miguel Molina! Today, we are going to be having some fun with both eats, treats, and sights down at the CTA’s Addison stop. Be sure to bring your student ID card, ventra card (u-pass), and as always, a hungry belly. So come on, let’s go out and explore!

Getting There:

There are three ways that I would recommend getting to Addison, depending on where you live and with time considered. The first way is the easiest. You can take the CTA Red line down from Loyola straight into Addison station (toward 95th). This may take around 25 minutes, give or take. Or, you can take the Intercampus shuttle from the Lakeshore Campus to the Water Tower Campus and take the El from Chicago and State north toward Addison (only five stops away). Lastly, you can always take an Uber or a Lyft, depending on the size of the group you are traveling with, and what time of day you are planning to visit the area.

Main Attractions:

Wrigley Field: Right off the Addison Red Line stop, from the El tracks, Chicago’s historic Wrigley Field comes into view. The crunch of Cracker Jacks are heard, the smell of freshly flash fried funnel cakes are brought out of the fryer, and the sight of a truly dedicated fan base is seen in the stands and bars surrounding the park. You have just stepped into a piece of history. Built in 1914, Wrigley is the second oldest professional baseball park in the United States, the first being Fenway Park in Boston. This was the site where the Cubs won the World Series in 1908 (which is coincidentally the same year that Dumbach Hall was built at Loyola’s Lakeshore campus). Wrigley is truly a place of character and is a true representative of what it means to be a Chicagoan. Like many historic buildings in Chicago, Wrigley Field has been retouched and fixed but never torn down and built from scratch. This helps preserve the history and sanctity of the structure. What makes this park so iconic are the ivy covered outfield wall, the grand marquee at the entrance that ushers spectators into the park, and of course Harry Caray’s tradition of the song belted out during the seventh inning. It is classic and true Chicago.

Music Box Theatre: Within the Addison and Wrigleyville area is the eclectic Music Box Theatre. This venue is the perfect place to watch independent, foreign, and cult classic films. This is the place where I got to see one of my favorite authors, David Mitchell, and director of his work Cloud Atlas, Lana Wachowski during my freshman year of college. The theatre is the place to visit if you enjoy movies that are not typically shown as the summer blockbuster at your hometown theatre. Additionally, if you like ghost stories or haunted places, the Music Box has its own theatre ghost, dubbed “Whitey”. For a classic Halloween tradition outing with your friends, be sure to come and watch the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show (with your toilet paper of course). And if you watch The Room be sure to bring spoons! For more information on what’s showing check: (https://www.musicboxtheatre.com) 

It’s Time to Eat:

Old Crow Smokehouse: Are you in the mood for some quality barbeque and hearty comfort food? You have come to the right place by checking out Old Crow Smokehouse! As always, I would recommend the tasty brisket (who can go wrong with brisket and burnt ends?), the pulled pork, and their sausage. If you are looking some good sides to accompany that meal be sure to check out their macaroni and cheese (many good barbeque places offer this), cornbread (psst it has bacon in it), and their baked beans! If you want more options, be sure to check out their menu with the link attached: http://oldcrowsmokehouse.com/wrigleyville/dine-in-menu/

Moe’s Cantina: Tacos! Need I say more? Moe’s Cantina is a traditional Northern Mexican restaurant that specializes in tasty and truly flavorful meats in delicious rubs and spices. This is a great place to hang out with your friends before and after the baseball game. There are two types of ways you can appreciate this meal, with either mesquite grilled skewers of meat (e.g. carne asada, camarones con tocino, pollo pimiento, etc.) or some tacos (al pastor, carbon, de camaron, etc.); or if you are likely me and order both! Here you can sample a bunch of different flavors with your friends and share a quality meal! If you want more options and suggestions check out: https://moescantina.com/wrigleyville/menu/

Still hungry and looking for more to visit? Be sure to tune in March 13, 2018 as we go and start to explore more of the north side as we stop at Argyle, Home to Vietnamese Town “Little Vietnam” on this edition of Explore Chicago CTA Edition. Doors closing.  

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Fullerton

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Fullerton

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This is Fullerton. Doors open on the right at Fullerton, transfer to Purple and Brown line trains at Fullerton. This is a train to Howard. Hey everyone, welcome back to the fifth installment of Explore Chicago CTA Edition! As always, I’m your blogger, Miguel Molina! Today, we are going to be having some fun with both eats, treats, and sights down at the CTA’s Fullerton stop. Be sure to bring your student ID card, ventra card (u-pass), and as always, a hungry belly. So come on, let’s go and explore!

Getting There:

There are three ways that I would recommend getting to Fullerton, depending on where you live and with time considered. The first way is the easiest. You can take the CTA Red line down from Loyola straight into Fullerton station (toward 95th). This may take around 30 minutes, give or take. Or, you can take the Intercampus shuttle from the Lakeshore Campus to the Water Tower Campus and take the El from Chicago and State north toward Fullerton (only one stop away). Lastly, you can always take an Uber or a Lyft, depending on the size of the group you are traveling with, and what time of day you are planning to visit the area.

Main Attractions:

  1. Lincoln Park Zoo: As one of the last free public zoos, and one of North America’s oldest zoos (it was founded in 1868); Lincoln Park Zoo is a fun place for families, students, and visitors to all check out! Inside, there are several different exhibits for the whole family to enjoy with monkeys, reptiles, birds, and so much more. Sadly, there is no Harambe, but it does have gorillas! During the winter months, the zoo becomes a popular attraction for an event called “Zoo Lights” where the whole site is lit up. Here you can go with your friends and sip away at your hot cocoa while going throughout the zoo and even find some ice carving demonstrations. Regardless of the season, you should definitely check out the Nature Boardwalk before leaving. This is a true Instagram worthy area for photos and a perfect place for that new profile pic that Facebook keeps annoying you about. With the background of the John Hancock building and the River North part of the skyline; this place offers excellent views of Chicago. Once you are done here, be sure to check out our next stop.
  2. Oz Park: From Lincoln Park Zoo just “follow the yellow brick road” to get to Chicago’s Oz Park. Commemorating L Frank Baum, the author of this literary classic, this park is open to the public and features the characters from the book. Be sure to be on the lookout for Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and of course Dorothy and Toto as well! This play is fun to visit in the summer months as well, as they offer free movies to the public (perfect for a friends’ night out or date night).

It’s Time to Eat:

  1. Cafe Ba Ba Reba: Who can say no quality Spanish tapas, paella, pintxos and jamón serrano? As one of my favorite Spanish restaurants, outside of Spain of course, this place has such flavorful and rich foods. This is a place that you want to ask your parents to bring you when they come to visit Loyola and want to treat you for a meal. Here are my suggestions for you to try:
  • Pintxos: (These are bite sized dishes) Chorizo wrapped dates and cheese (What is better than spicy sausage with sweet dates and salty cheese as the perfect three in one? That’s what!); Bacalao Croquette (this is a creamy and rich cod croquette with potatoes that is fried to crispy goodness and has an excellent aioli sauce with it)
  • Tapas: (Small Plates) Fried Calamari (nothing is better than a classic); Seared Spanish Sausage (a great way to try a variety of different kinds of Spanish meats from spicy sausage to blood sausage)
  • Paella: (Rice Platters) When you go to a Spanish restaurant you definitely have to try their paella! Cafe Ba Ba Reba is no exception. I would recommend two of their paellas. The Paella Valenciana (pork rinds, pork shoulder, pork belly, and pork sausage) is on point! If you are more into seafood, try their Seafood Paella (shrimp, monkfish, clams, and vegetables). Either one, be sure to add the extra virgin olive oil that is offered on the table, this elevates the food to another level.

Still hungry and looking for more to visit? Be sure to tune in February 6, 2018 as we go and start to explore more of the north side as we stop at Belmont on this edition of Explore Chicago CTA Edition. Doors closing.

Welcome Back Ramblers!

Welcome Back Ramblers!

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It’s Tuesday, January 16th. There is a mini-blizzard seen outside the classroom, the smell of hot coffee beckons (waiting to be drunk), the sound of crunching snow and slosh of slush being stepped on by heavy duty boots. With all this, we are back to work. Welcome back Ramblers to Spring semester!

Today, I am here to tell you about what to expect this semester from your weekly blogger! As always, I am here to be your resource to connect you to your Loyola experience. Every other week, I will talk about academics, extracurriculars, and events going on at both Loyola’s Water Tower and Lakeshore Campuses. Here are some of the topics that I hope to cover this semester:

  • How to choose a college major, minor
  • Why it is okay to be undecided with your major/minor
  • Some Loyola history (St Ignatius of Loyola, History of Certain Buildings, Important People on Campus)
  • Tips for academic success (Tutoring Center, Writing Center, Research, etc.)

However, starting next week, we will be going to have Explore Chicago CTA Edition where we are going to explore Fullerton. Just a quick reminder, during this segment, I give you a bunch of tips on places to explore and what makes Chicago such a beautiful and unique city to live. As always, you can count on receiving suggestions for tasty meals (sit downs, cafes, fast food, and of course…desserts) as well as shops (bookstores, boutiques, speciality shops) and many attractions in these neighborhoods (parks, historic centers, and so much more)! Make sure to bring your U-Pass and an empty stomach to come on this fun adventure!

  • January 23 (Fullerton)
  • February 6 (Belmont)
  • February 20 (Addison)
  • March 13 (Argyle)
  • March 27 (Granville)
  • April 10 (Morse)
  • April 24 (Howard)

I hope you have a great spring semester and are ready to embark on adventure. Welcome Back Ramblers!

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Grand and State

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Grand and State

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This is Grand and State. Doors open on the right at Grand and State. Hey everyone, welcome back to the fourth installment of Explore Chicago CTA Edition! As always, I’m your blogger, Miguel Molina! Today, we are going to be having some fun with both eats and treats down at the CTA’s Grand and State stop. Be sure to bring your student ID card, ventra card (u-pass), and as always, a hungry belly. So come on, let’s go and explore!

Getting There:

There are three ways that I would recommend getting to Grand and State, depending on where you live and with time considered. The first way is the easiest. You can take the CTA Red line down from Loyola straight into Grand and State station (toward 95th). This may take around 45 minutes, give or take. Or, you can take the Intercampus shuttle from the Lakeshore Campus to the Water Tower Campus and take the El from Chicago and State toward Grand and State (only one stop away). Lastly, you can always take an Uber or a Lyft, depending on the size of the group you are traveling with, and what time of day you are planning to visit the area.

Main Attractions:

  1. After-Words Bookstore: Books are the portable doors that bring you to amazing worlds. Whether you are interested in the poetry of Jorge Luis Borges, the fiction novels of Margaret Atwood, or get wrapped up in the magical realism tendencies of Isabel Allende; After-Words Bookstore is the place for all bookworms to enjoy and savor. When going to the bookshop, the store itself is like a book. At first glance, the book’s entrance and facade looks small and unassuming. Even the first floor is unassuming with mostly children’s books and adolescent novels. However, once you take a flight of stairs downstairs you will find shelves upon shelves with new and used books from a variety of genres and authors. The store closes at 10PM, Monday-Thursday and 11PM, Friday and Saturday; meaning you can enjoy these books longer! Just be sure to tell all of your friends that you are booked for this weekend!
  2. Holy Name Cathedral: When first seeing Chicago’s Holy Name Cathedral, I find it striking to see how simple it looks on the outside. But, when you enter this structure, you will find how it is a treasure to behold. Built in 1874, Holy Name is exemplary of Chicago’s beautiful and functional architecture. This is a place for all to visit, Catholics and Non-Catholics alike. When you are visiting, be sure to check out some of these attractions in the church: the bronze doors (which weigh over 1200 pounds each); resurrection crucifix at the front of the altar; the pipe organ at the back of the church; and of course the glittering stained glass windows that line the church’s sides.

It’s Time to Eat:

  1. Eately: Crafted by the mastermind with American chef, Mario Batali, Eately is a foodie’s paradise. This store and restaurant is true eye candy! This two story store is full of cookbooks, cooking materials, and, of course food! On the first floor, you can find a variety of foods that are more available on a student budget. For a quality sandwich I recommend trying their Trento. This sandwich is simple but oh so fresh! For $7.80 you get freshly baked bread with arugula (a type of peppery green), asiago (a sharp cheese), tomatoes, and speck (a meat similar to a prosciutto). All of these fresh ingredients are drizzled with full flavored extra virgin olive oil, perfection! Do you still have a sweet tooth that you need to satisfy? Kiddie corner from the panini shop you will find some Lavazza Italian coffee, a crepe station with Nutella (tell me peanut butter is better, I dare you), a cannoli bar (that is pure Italian greatness), chocolates/pastries, and more! If you are in the mood to splurge (treat yourself!) or if you want to go out on a date or any other special occasion, check out Eately’s second floor. Here you will find the freshest meats, seafood, and so many tasty cuts of artisan cured meats and smooth, creamy, sharp cheese. There are also a variety of restaurants and smaller cafes that specialize in high quality Italian dishes. Mangia! For more information on what this place offers please check out: (https://www.eataly.com/us_en/)
  2. Xoco: From American chef, Rick Bayless, Xoco is a Mexican restaurant that is truly tasty as it is authentic with a modern flair. Rick Bayless is a world renowned chef known for even serving former President Barack Obama and former Mexican president, Felipe Calderón during his visit to the United States. Whether you want some savory tortas (Mexican sandwiches), daily specials, caldos (which is basically a meal in a bowl), and some exquisite desserts; this is place for all of your senses to savor. My personal favorites include their Woodland Mushroom Torta (it has wood roasted mushrooms, chipotle-garlic mojo, quality goat cheese, black beans, wild arugula, and a three chili salsa) and of course their house made guacamole (you can get it fully dressed with all their toppings or almost naked with your choice of two toppings). But you must definitely have to have room for dessert! Xoco is known for their churros which are cinnamon and sugar perfection. And, lastly, you need some Mexican hot chocolate to pair with it. Mexican hot chocolate is unlike another hot chocolate you will drink. It is basically drinking a dark chocolate bar straight up. This make great dipping for your churros. For the truly authentic experience, I recommend trying their Authentic Chocolate. Or, if you are like me and prefer something creamier, I would get their Classic Chocolate (which has whole milk). These chocolate drinks are tastier, and yes they are healthier, and are cheaper than getting that caramel frappucino that you got this morning from Starbucks. Enjoy! For more about what is on the menu and more about Rick Bayless be sure to check out his website at: (http://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/xoco/)  
  3. M Burger: Looking for a savory burger that tastes amazing? Look no further and try M Burger. These burgers are made with simple, quality ingredients and deliver a truly great tasting burger. I would recommend trying their signature M Burger made with bacon, cheese, pickles, onions, and their secret M sauce. It is simple and delectable. While your at it, make sure to grab some regular fries seasoned with sea salt. Or, some cheese fries with pickled jalapeños. Regardless, wash all of these down with shakes, malts, or floats. For more information on locations, and other menu items, check out: (http://mburgerchicago.com)

Still hungry and looking for more to visit? Be sure to tune in next semester starting January 23, 2018 as we go and start to explore the north side on Fullerton on this edition of Explore Chicago CTA Edition. Doors closing.

Easy and Healthy Meals for the Busy College Student

Easy and Healthy Meals for the Busy College Student

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The semester is coming to a close and it seems that this is the perfect time for professors to drop all of their presentations, projects, papers, etc. on students. We are all stressed out and tired with not enough sleep. We neglect sleep and healthy eating habits and turn to RedBull, Coffee, or junk food to get us nourished enough for our next class or that infamous all nighter. Hey you, yes you! Put down that can of RedBull, unplug that Keurig Machine, stop munching away on your Cheet0’s and Doritos. Today, I am going to teach you four basic meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert) that you can make on a college budget. All of these recipes are healthy (Mom approved) and are super tasty (not Buzzfeed’s Tasty). Happy Eats!

Notice: Make sure you go on the website that I have provided to get proper instructions, proportions of ingredients, and proper temperatures for the oven (if needed)

Breakfast: Avocado Toast with Sunny Side Up Egg (courtesy of Greatist)

  • For this recipe all you need is: two pieces of whole wheat or multigrain toast; one ripe avocado; salt; and pepper
  • First, smash one avocado in a bowl
  • Grab your two pieces of toasted whole wheat or multigrain bread and spread the avocado on the toast as you would butter or peanut butter (make it as chunky or smooth to your liking)
  • Cook your eggs (either sunny side up or hard boiled, to your liking), use avocado oil or grape seed oil to cook your eggs
  • Carefully place the egg on top of the avocado and toast, sprinkle some salt and pepper for taste (you can also sprinkle some other kinds of herbs to your liking)

Lunch: Pasta Salad with Goat Cheese and Arugula (courtesy of Martha Stewart)

  • For this recipe all you need is: cannellini or white beans; olive oil; red wine vinegar; crumbled goat cheese; short pasta (that is preferably whole wheat); salt; pepper; dijon mustard; small red onion; and arugula
  • In a pot of boiling water, cook your pasta
  • In a separate bowl or pot, combine your white beans with your crumbled goat cheese, your chopped up red onion, and of course arugula
  • To create your dressing grab your olive oil, red wine vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper put them in a bowl and whisk them together
  • With all your ingredients, blend them together to make a tasty, simple, and healthy meal

Dinner: Simple Oven Salmon Filet (courtesy of Greatist)

  • For this recipe all you need is: a boneless salmon filet; olive oil; sweet or spicy smoked paprika; and honey
  • Combine your sauce ingredients first by mixing olive oil, honey, and sweet or spicy smoked paprika into a dressing mixture
  • Generously coat your salmon in the sauce and let it sit and marinade for 30 minutes (this is time when you can do your homework, take a shower, or get caught up with your e-mails)
  • Make sure you line an oven safe pyrex with aluminum foil and spray some nonstick spray and place your salmon in the broiler oven
  • Check your salmon periodically to make sure the fish is cooked thoroughly; once it is ready you are ready for a healthy and tasty meal that you just made in your apartment!

Dessert: Edible Cookie Dough (courtesy of Family Fresh Meals)

  • For this recipe all you need is: brown sugar, butter, salt, vanilla, milk, flour, chocolate chips
  • First, mix your brown sugar, butter, vanilla and salt all together till it becomes a soft mixture that is not clumped together
  • Add your milk (depending on how thick or smooth you want your cookie dough), add flour until it becomes soft enough and blended to become a dough mixture
  • If desired, add chocolate chips to the mix
  • Once incorporated well, place into the refrigerator to cool off, your dessert is then ready to eat and enjoy!

Tips: 

  • These recipes are good for big size portions to allow you to have future meals for the next few days (so you don’t have to cook)
  • These are fun to make with your roommates for a great bonding experience
  • These also are fun to enjoy on date night with that special someone (and a chance to show off your “amazing” cooking skills)
  • To store your extra food, it might be worth it to invest in some durable tupperware to store leftover food so it does not go to waste!
  • ENJOY!

 

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Lake

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Lake

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This is Lake. Doors open on the right at Lake. Transfer to orange, pink, green, brown, and purple lines at Lake. Hey everyone, welcome back to the third installment of Explore Chicago CTA Edition! As always, I’m your blogger, Miguel Molina! Today, we are going to be having some fun with both eats and treats down at the CTA’s Lake stop. Be sure to bring your student ID card, ventra card (u-pass), and as always, an empty belly. Let’s go!

Getting There:

There are three ways that I would recommend getting to Lake, depending on where you live and with time considered. The first way is the easiest. You can take the CTA Red line down from Loyola straight into Lake station (toward 95th). This may take around 45 minutes, give or take. Or, you can take the Intercampus shuttle from the Lakeshore Campus to the Water Tower Campus and take the El from Chicago and State toward Lake. Lastly, you can always take an Uber or a Lyft, depending on the size of the group you are traveling with, and what time of day you are planning to visit the area.

Main Attractions:

  1. Millennium Park: Completed in 2004, Millennium Park is Chicago’s park and is among the top attractions for tourists who visit the city of Chicago. This is a place for people of all ages to appreciate and enjoy. Come, I’ll give you a short tour. First, there is the Cloud Gate, affectionately dubbed “The Bean”. The structure is a smooth steel structure with no seams and reflects the beauty of the Chicago skyline. Which makes it a perfect place for selfies for Snapchat and Instagram! During the holiday season, there are carolers who perform right by Cloud Gate. This is the perfect time to sing holiday carols and sip some pipping hot chocolate. Right underneath the promenade with “The Bean” is McCormick Tribune Plaza and Ice Rink. This is the perfect place to spend time with friends during the holiday season. During the winter months, plaza oval becomes an ice rink. This would be the ideal place to bring out your significant other on a special date or to relax with some family and friends. The grill next door, offers some deliciously warm food as well! A couple paces from the ice rink is Crown Fountain. Here two glass towers have projected faces of the family members of the people who designed and built the structure. The two act as “water fountains” and allow for all to cool off after a hot day in the summer sun. The key feature is that every 5-10 minutes, the faces open their “mouths” and water comes gushing out, much to the delight of young families who gather at a special spot to get soaked. Before you go, please sure to check out the Pritzker Pavilion, a popular place for young families and college students, to come and hang out. During the summer, it is very popular for bands and concerts to be performed at this open venue. Luckily, it is free if you sit on the lawn. And who wouldn’t? Spring and summer are the perfect time of the year to enjoy a picnic with some quality music. During the months of July-August, the Pavilion also offers free movies to the public. This can range from movies like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off to the Breakfast Club to Prince’s Purple Rain. You may be wondering how you will get to hear the movie if the venue is massive and open? Luckily, the pavilion is equipped with some surround sound audio allowing all audience members to enjoy the experience. After to enjoying some music and snacks, be sure to cross over the BP Pedestrian Bridge designed by world renowned architect, Frank Gehry (who also designed the pavilion). Here the bridge’s serpentine appearance acts as a sound barrier from the park to the main street, Columbus Drive. When exiting the bridge on the other side you will find some beautiful gardens for you to explore and another special park we are going to visit next. For more info, check out: (https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park.html)
  2. Maggie Daley Park: Completed in 2015, Maggie Daley Park is dedicated in the memory of former Mayor, Richard M Daley’s wife, Maggie Daley who died of breast cancer. Here, there are several sights and attractions for both adults and children. The park is basically a large scale playground. But some of the notable sights include the ribbon (shaped in the style of a cancer ribbon), which doubles as an ice skater during the winter and a rollerblading track during the summer months. There are also climbing walls, available to all ages. Near the entrance of the park, there is also a memorial garden to all those who have been affected and survived their battle with cancer. For more info, check out: (http://maggiedaleypark.com)

Places to Eat: 

  1. Latinicity: On Block 37, across from the iconic Chicago Theatre is a food hall that caters to all South American and Latin American cuisine, called Latinicity. Here, the music and atmosphere is vibrant, the food is delicious and tasty, and the experience is truly a special one! Upon entering the hall, you are given a meal card which you can use to access all the mini-pop up restaurants/cafes within the hall. They have stations that special with tortas (Mexican style sandwiches), ceviche (Latin American style, marinated raw fish salad), Brazilian steaks, and some Peruvian style Japanese noodles (their aeropuerto is delicious). This is a place for a truly savory experience! To check out their options and other info, check out this link: (https://www.latinicity.com)
  2.  Seven on State: Across the street from Block 37 is Macy’s Chicago flagship store. On the 7th floor of this architecturally aesthetic building, is Seven on State. Here, several world renowned chefs have small restaurants/cafes for the public to enjoy. For example, Rick Bayless, known for his Mexican inspired cuisine has a cafe, their is a Japanese noodle place by Takashi Yagihashi. Like Latinicity, this is the perfect place to go if you and your friends have different pallets and want to try something new. For more information, please check out: (http://chicago.metromix.com/venues/mmxchi-seven-on-state-venue)
  3. Magnolia Bakery: Do you still have some room for dessert? Of course you do, before heading up back to Loyola, be sure to check out Magnolia Bakery at Block 37. Here, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with some special American favorites. Whether you want a piece of cake, a pastry, or a cup of soothing, hot cup o’ joe; Magnolia got you covered. For me, I always go for their sweet cupcakes, always getting the German Chocolate one. To learn more about what they offer please check out their website and menu online for more details and facts: (https://www.magnoliabakery.com)

Still hungry and looking for more to visit? Be sure to tune in the week of November 28 as we go and explore Chicago and State (Loyola’s Water Tower Campus) on this edition of Explore Chicago CTA Edition. Doors closing.

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Jackson

Explore Chicago CTA Edition: This is Jackson

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This is Jackson. Doors open on the right at Jackson. Transfer to blue, orange, brown, pink, and purple lines at Jackson. Hey everyone, welcome back to the second installment of Explore Chicago CTA Edition! Today we are going to be exploring the stores, restaurants, and attractions near Jackson’s red line stop. So be sure to bring your ventra card (u-pass), your student ID, and as always an empty/hungry belly! Let’s go!

Getting There:

There are three ways that I would recommend getting to Jackson, depending on where you live and with time considered. The first way is the easiest. You can take the CTA Red line down from Loyola straight into Jackson station (toward 95th). This may take around 45 minutes, give or take. Or, you can take the Intercampus shuttle from the Lakeshore Campus to the Water Tower Campus and take the El from Chicago and State toward Jackson. Lastly, you can always take an Uber or a Lyft, depending on the size of the group you are traveling with, and what time of day you are planning to visit the area.

Main Attractions:

  1. Art Institute of Chicago: Considered to be one of the best museums in the world, according to Trip Advisor, the Art Institute of Chicago is truly a world class museum with a vast collection of art throughout history (from antiquity to modernity). For this attraction you can go with your friends to see new exhibitions and openings or you can always appreciate the moment by yourself and become absorbed in the art. Being a Loyola student you have the perk of getting free admission to the museum anytime you want! Yes, you heard that right, all you need is to bring your Student ID and you are good to go. Luckily, many of Loyola’s classes (especially artistic core) require students to go an visit the museum. For example, for my Honors 102 class we went to learn about Impressionist/Post-Impressionist paintings of Van Gogh, Caillebotte, Manet, and so many more. Likewise, for an extra credit opportunity I got to see the paintings and drawings of Tarsila Do Amaral, a Brazilian artist, who was the female contemporary of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. The museum even boasts a new modern wing designed by world renowned architect Renzo Piano, unique gift shops/stores, and a classy cafe in the modern wing. There is something at the museum that everyone can appreciate. (http://www.artic.edu)
  2. Chicago Symphony Center: Home to the world famous Chicago Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Ricardo Mutti, this is the place for a truly sensational musical experience. The CSO, as it is commonly called, encourages students and children to appreciate the arts. Because of this, you should always ask for a student discount, they will often be more than willing to accommodate. How does $15 sound? Likewise, the orchestra provides more than just classical music, they also have jazz, latin/caribbean music, and much more! To learn more about the upcoming events and concerts going at the Symphony Center be sure to check out their website. (https://cso.org)

Places to Eat:

  1. Vivi Bubble Tea: Want a quick and refreshing drink? Are you into “quali-tea” bubble tea, pun totally intended? Make sure to head down to Vivi Bubble Tea! The teas here are authentic, smooth, and most importantly taste so good. Be sure to try their milk tea, which is their signature drink. I would recommend their Thai Iced Tea with tapioca, Coconut Milk Tea, or their Milk Black Tea. But if you are more into flavored iced teas, Vivi offers unique flavors like Passionfruit, Kumquat, or even Lychee! For more flavor combinations be sure to check out: (http://www.vivibubbletea.com/products.php?cat=2)
  2. Garrett’s Popcorn: What goes well with a Netflix night in? Why, popcorn of course! But Garrett’s is not just your typical popcorn that you can get from the grocery store or the movie theatre, Garrett’s is a gourmet popcorn shop. What do I mean by gourmet? The popcorn actually tastes like quality popcorn with cheese, caramel, or butter. There is no cardboard taste to it at all! I would recommend trying the Chicago Mix (or the Garrett Mix) which is a combination of Cheese and Caramel popcorn. This is the perfect combination of sweet and salty. Like how bacon and chocolate pair well together. These make a wonderful gift for birthdays and holidays as well, for more information be sure to check out their website: (https://www.garrettpopcorn.com)
  3. Bibibop: Is it that obvious that I enjoy eating Asian food? Bibibop is the Asian equivalent to Chipotle. However, I find Bibibop to be more unique with their food options and choices. First, you start with a base: white rice, purple rice (a healthy, tastier alternative to white rice, highly recommended), greens, wrap, or noodles. Next, you can add black beans, potatoes, or bean sprouts. Then you get to pick a protein: chicken (regular or spicy), steak, or tofu. You then get to pick some cold vegetable toppings: daikon (radish), cucumber, carrot, kale, corn, and lettuce. You can also add eggs and/or cheese. On the side you can have either for pineapple or kimchi (for an extra fee). To top it off you have a choice of several sauces, I would recommend their cucumber wasabi, a perfect blend of heat and cooling flavors within your mouth. For more tasty and mouthwatering information on the restaurant’s menu, story, or locations be sure to check out their website at: (http://bibibop.com/about)

Still hungry and looking for more? Be sure to tune in the week of November 7 as we go an explore Lake on this edition of Explore Chicago CTA Edition. Doors closing.