2023-05-25 23:25
We know this all too well: the Taylor Swift Concert is happening in Chicago on June 2 to June 4. To level up the festivity and celebration, plenty of bars and restaurants in Chicago are host… Read More
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Beginning as Chicago Genie, UrbanMatter is now the Number One resource for discovering new outlets in Chicago. Why? Because we live and breathe Chicago every day.
We’re front row at that festival in Grant Park. We’re ordering takeout from that restaurant on the corner you thought no one knew about. We know which museums have the free days. We’re drinking that new craft brew from Half Acre. And yes, we eat our hot dogs the right way – sweet relish, onions, pickles, and all.
That’s what makes us stand out from the million other event websites that exist. We cover the things that matter most to real Chicagoans. When it comes to music, restaurants, nightlife, culture, and local lifestyle, you can trust us.
So what are you waiting for? Step outside and start doing what really matters to you.
2023-05-25 19:40
Summer is perfect for drinking, partying, and catching up with friends. Naturally, the Chicago bar scene is always in full-fledged once the highest temperature stays above the 60s. As always… Read More
2023-05-24 21:32
Summer is upon us, and with it comes all the holidays that can (thankfully) be spent outside: Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and of course, Father’s Day! If you’re like us, ge… Read More
2023-05-24 19:35
Finding a tequila bar in the West Loop is pretty much as simple as closing your eyes, spinning in a circle, and pointing in any random direction. With Velvet Taco, Texan Taco Bar, and let&rs&hell…Read More
2023-05-24 15:42
WARNING: This post contains graphic images of painfully delicious burgers. May induce involuntary salivating, stomach growling, and in some cases arousal.
It’s simple. Sometimes, you j… Read More
2023-05-23 19:22
There are certain dishes that make more sense as an adult, and escargot is certainly one of them. Indulging in the delicacy of escargot, or cooked snails, is a gastronomic experience that tr… Read More
2023-05-22 19:44
Chicago will celebrate the arrival of the 2023 James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One from Friday, June 2 through Monday, June 5 with a weekend of intimate and… Read More
2023-05-22 18:00
The post Example appeared first on UrbanMatter Read More
2023-05-22 14:06
Jimmy Buffet once sang, “Give me oysters and beer, for dinner every day of the year, and I’ll feel fine.” Wiser words have never been spoken, sang, or otherwise. Which is w… Read More
2023-05-20 16:14
Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner. Have you made any plans? Whether you plan on having a classic BBQ gathering at one of Chicago’s beautiful parks with families and frien… Read More
2023-05-19 20:16
Summer in Chicago is all about action and exploration. And we know you’ve heard here and there about new restaurants opening up in your favorite neighborhood. So, are they worth the hy… Read More
2023-05-19 20:16
Summer in Chicago is all about action and exploration. And we know you’ve heard here and there about new restaurants opening up in your favorite neighborhood. So, are they worth the hy… Read More
2023-05-19 03:13
Almost all of us have stumbled across Reddit nowadays. If you’re not familiar with the website, then all you really need to know is that it’s a platform made up of an endless num… Read More
2023-05-18 19:47
We feel like people don’t give the non-main-stream museums in Chicago enough credit at all. Everyone swarms to MCA, the Art Institute, and Field Museum when there are plenty of smaller… Read More
2023-05-17 18:39
National Wine Day (May. 25th) is quickly approaching and enthusiastic wine lovers cannot miss out on the festivity. Whether you love a good, rich glass of red, a crispy, refreshing glass of… Read More
2023-05-17 15:39
One thing we all love about Chicago’s restaurant scene is the social-awareness flowing throughout the community. While many are celebrating AAPI heritage this May, let’s no… Read More
2023-05-16 17:42
The NFL’s Schedule Release Day is the biggest non-holiday in the world. Not because it’s boring, or because no one cares but because social media leaks the entire thing and no on… Read More
2023-05-15 18:22
Chicago is probably the best place to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with Asian food, thanks to our largely diverse AAPI population. From our famous China Town to the countless Korean, Japane… Read More
2023-05-12 16:36
It’s summer. It’s hot, and it’s the season for bubbly, fruity, zesty drinks. I frankly can’t recall a summer where I didn’t indulge in the many hard ciders and… Read More
2023-05-10 17:47
Old-school thriller fan? Know every Hitchcock movie? Heads up, because the first Hitchcock Pop-Up is coming to Chicago. Hitch*Cocktails, a fully improvised 90-minute comedic thriller in Alfr… Read More
2023-05-10 17:35
The keto diet is widely used to for weight loss as the high-fat, low-carb diet makes the body burn fat and uses ketones as an energy source. A recent study found that keto is currently Illin… Read More
2023-05-09 14:00
The adage “old dog, new tricks” is a familiar one and perhaps one that most accurately describes Little Joe’s on Taylor Street. The Hidden Gem of Little Italy has been a ma… Read More
2023-05-08 23:33
Plenty of things are happening in May: Mother’s day, AAPI heritage celebrations, national burger day/month celebrations, and the long Memorial Day weekend. While all the festivities ar… Read More
2023-05-07 18:30
If you ask me, Mother’s Day should be one of the most important holidays throughout the year: way more meaningful than the upcoming holiday season. There are so many invisible efforts… Read More
2023-05-07 02:59
It’s this time of the year again. Sunshine, carnations, fresh grass, and outdoor brunches. With Chicago finally entering al fresco season (thank you, 50-degree-plus temperature!), ther… Read More
2023-05-05 19:50
The reopening of 312 Chicago, a Theatre District icon, has gained plenty of buzz lately. Right before they activated their dinner services, we had the chance to try their lunch menu. We had… Read More
2023-05-03 22:11
Hyde Park Summer Fest, a two-day music festival that celebrates the best of Chicago, today announced its full 2023 lineup, including a performance from rap artist Lil’ Kim. The festiva… Read More
2023-05-03 19:30
There are two ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Chicago this year. Option one, grab a few friends and explore the Cinco de Mayo specials from the best Chicago restaurants. Option two, parti… Read More
2023-05-02 18:07
April showers bring May flowers. May flowers bring Chicago’s festival season. Now that may not be a real saying but it might as well be. There are few things in this city that evoke ex… Read More
2023-05-01 19:54
The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire hits it out of the park with DAMN YANKEES, running now through June 4.
Make no mistake, this musical remains one of the best baseball shows of all time s… Read More
2023-05-01 18:47
Windy City Smokeout, the nation’s premier outdoor country music and BBQ festival, returns to Chicago’s iconic United Center (1901 W. Madison Street) on July 13-16, 2023. The two… Read More
2023-05-01 17:21
Raise your hand if you are also ready to stretch your legs and embrace the outdoors. As the UV index and temps (finally) climb, the Al Fresco season is officially here. Head to one of these… Read More
2023-05-01 16:23
With ten Chicago Bears draft picks to use this year, general manager Ryan Poles certainly had his work cut out for him entering the 2023 NFL Draft. For many who were on the outside looking i… Read More
2023-05-01 16:11
There’s really no way to sugarcoat it. When it comes to being a Southside fan this year, well… shit sucks. The 2023 White Sox season is off to one of the worst 26-game starts in… Read More
2023-05-01 06:06
Blink and you’re sure to miss it, but somewhere between the frigid temps of the Illinois winter and the scorching heat of the city summer are a few short weeks of practically perf… Read More
2023-04-30 16:48
Ahhh, the many flavors of a good brunch menu. To appease the masses, it’s important that restaurants offer items that will satiate anyone with a sweet tooth and those who prefer a clas… Read More
2023-04-25 15:02
And they’re off! The Kentucky Derby is the most electrifying two minutes in sport and this year, make sure you and yours are properly set for the Derby Dash. Green Curtain Events is th… Read More
2023-04-25 14:42
If there’s one thing Chicagoans love about summer, it’s the fact that music festivals, big and small, are on their way back to our beloved city. We’re finally defrosting, w… Read More
2023-04-24 21:05
Get ready for a beachy escape, Chicago! Saltwater Coastal Grill is opening in May 2023. This new seafood restaurant in Rosemont, IL, will offer the best bounty of the sea in a cheerful nauti… Read More
2023-04-23 21:56
Prior to reaching the one year milestone as Chicago Bears general manager, Ryan Poles received one of the league’s most coveted assets: the #1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. And before… Read More
2023-04-21 20:58
Cinco de Mayo or Derby Day? Those are hard choices! Either way, we wouldn’t pass a good opportunity to drink margaritas and devour some tacos. So, we put together the best Cinco de May… Read More
2023-04-21 17:37
Did you realize Derby Day falls on the same day as a Cubs game this year? But don’t worry, we are not letting the Derby get out-shined. Check out the best places to eat, drink, and par… Read More
2023-04-20 23:37
Coming out first on our latest Chicago’s best independent dispensaries list, Grasshopper Club is a new crowd’s favorite in the Logan Square neighborhood. As the first black-owned… Read More
2023-04-20 16:36
Since the legalization of weed in Illinois, you can find big-name dispensaries on every street corner, city, or suburb. And we know you have plans for 4/20, and probably already got your han… Read More
2023-04-19 16:36
In celebration of Warner Bros. Studios’ 100th anniversary, Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and Fever, the leading entertainment discovery platform, are proud to laun… Read More
2023-04-18 16:32
The quintessential British tradition, afternoon tea, has become a beloved ritual in many parts of the world. Chicago, with its rich culinary scene, is no exception. Whether you’re a lo… Read More
2023-04-18 02:17
Come on Barbie, let’s go party!
As anticipation for the Barbie movie grows, Bucket Listers and Chicago Bucket List along with toy company Mattel are teaming up to bring Malibu to… Read More
2023-04-17 16:55
If you’re expecting to see the life story of seven-time Grammy Award winner Alanis Morissette, “JAGGED LITTLE PILL” is not that musical biopic. Instead, expect something mu… Read More
2023-04-17 16:50
As of Sunday, April 16th, EXPO Chicago 2023 has concluded successfully. After a week of thought-provoking dialogues, fascinating art, and unforgettable interactions, EXPO Art Week: 10th Anni… Read More
2023-04-16 17:59
As spring fully unfolds in Chicago, let’s not forget that Earth Day is coming up! If you’re looking for places to celebrate Earth Day in Chicago, check out these bars holding the… Read More
2023-04-15 15:43
Beginning this April, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel will launch Digital Dialogues, A Renaissance Art Exhibition, a quarterly digital art exhibition celebrating Chicago’s contempor… Read More
2023-04-15 15:36
Chicago is home to a vibrant dining scene beyond just serving delicious food, with a growing trend towards sustainability in recent years, with many restaurants taking steps to reduce their… Read More
2023-04-13 16:37
The latest in the pop culture pop-ups has been announced. Head to Miami circa the 1980s and join everyone’s favorite quartet at The Golden Girls Kitchen. A detailed dining experience i… Read More
2023-04-13 05:10
Spring cocktails are a ritual. From refreshing herb-based drinks to fruity spritz, Chicago’s spring drink scene is full of al fresco vibes. Whether you’re looking for a playful a… Read More
2023-04-13 04:24
Farmheads Hospitality is pleased to announce that its new restaurant, Thomas & Dutch, will open on April 12, in the heart of downtown Evanston at 703 Church St. The restaurant will offer… Read More
2023-04-12 15:49
The 2023 NBA play-in tournament is set, and despite the 40-42 record, the Chicago Bulls made the cut. As a tenth seed in the Eastern Conference, they’ll need to win two road games to j… Read More
2023-04-10 19:00
For the first time ever NASCAR is introducing a street race into their Cup Series. A race-style typically saved for open-wheel racing like Formula 1, this will be the first time stock cars a… Read More
2023-04-10 17:43
Ah yes, it’s finally the time of year when random people on the internet who have zero authority pick apart festival lineups because they think their opinion matters. But, guess what?… Read More
2023-04-10 17:09
One of Chicago’s hottest restaurants and night club. Low sensory needs. Autism Awareness Month. You probably didn’t expect to hear these three worlds showing up in one sentence… Read More
2023-04-09 00:02
Have we hyped you up enough for EXPO Chicago? Featuring over 170 exhibitors, Navy Pier is hosting one of the biggest art expositions in the world from April 13th through April 16th. Showcasi… Read More
2023-04-08 14:00
EXPO Chicago, the International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art, features leading international galleries alongside the highest quality platform for contemporary art and culture… Read More
2023-04-08 00:08
Did you think EXPO Chicago is only at Navy Pier? Think twice. It is an EXPO tradition to coordinate city-wide art exhibitions showcasing Chicago’s vibrant artistic spirit in addition t… Read More
2023-04-07 22:42
Whether you’re traveling from out of town, or simply wanting to tune Chicago’s biggest art celebration ever up even louder, we’ve got you covered. Find the most artistic ho… Read More
2023-04-06 16:10
Feel the heat again this summer as the Heatwave Music Festival is set to return to Chicago for its second year after a wildly successful 2022, and with a new home! Get your tickets for the J… Read More
2023-04-05 20:33
Did you miss the opening last summer? The Museum of Ice Cream in downtown Chicago made its debut right next to the Tribune Tower. I checked out the museum when it first opened, so thi… Read More
2023-04-05 20:20
April is full of fun and activities. In addition to Easter and Passover, April is also the new National Brunch Month. Meanwhile, our favorite activities are also returning as the weather lif… Read More
2023-04-04 23:17
Executive chef/partner Won Kim will reopen Kimski – his groundbreaking restaurant known for Korean-Polish fusion in Bridgeport – at 5pm on Wednesday, April 5 with a new menu that… Read More
2023-04-04 21:22
Real estate investors and developers, Oxford Capital Group and Quadrum Global partner to launch Arlo Chicago at 168 North Michigan Avenue opening on April 11, 2023. The 218-room property mar… Read More
2023-04-02 02:42
Who said lunch was dead? We dare to disagree! There are so many good things about a lunch outing: the portions are smaller, so you never need to worry about food comas. A few fresh cocktails… Read More
2023-03-31 18:09
Thanks to Chicago’s Santa Claus, a.k.a. Ryan Poles, Christmas came early for Bears fans and the entire organization after a busy start to the 2023 offseason. On March 15, the start of… Read More
2023-03-31 18:07
Authentic Italian ristorante Gioia (1133 W Randolph St.) is now sharing their joy to a wider Italian audience through their new partnership with Italian restaurateur and television host Fran… Read More
2023-03-31 15:04
Chicago’s sneaker culture is as vibrant as the many neighborhoods that light up the city with uncompromising identities. For years, Chicagoans have been showcasing their personality wi… Read More
2023-03-30 04:42
You’ve heard us talking about doing more in-depth dining reviews for long enough. Well, here comes our first one for 2023! As a huge symphony lover, we’ve been waiting to dine at… Read More
2023-03-28 16:41
Experience-focused dining is all the craze. I mean, why wouldn’t it be? Dinner With A View, an international pop-up restaurant and outdoor sanctuary dining experience is set to hit Chi… Read More
2023-03-28 15:19
Eggs, lamb chops, and innovative dishes you have never thought of… Even if you don’t celebrate the holiday, you should never miss out on the perfect brunch opportunity. Here we… Read More
2023-03-27 19:03
Spring is finally (somewhat) approaching Chicago. As the season of life and possibilities unfold, we highly recommend you pay one of Chicago’s many museums, galleries, and art spaces a… Read More
2023-03-27 01:18
Data and sports go hand-in-hand these days. Whether it’s fans using advanced stats to argue over who the GOAT is, sportsbooks crunching numbers to set betting lines, or front offices a… Read More
2023-03-26 16:26
As one of the prettiest state parks near Chicago, Starved Rock is always high on outdoor lovers’ lists to explore and return to. Now, there is another reason to plan a camping trip wee… Read More
2023-03-24 19:49
We’ve finally made it, Spring has sprung around Chicago! This Easter (April 9th), if you and your family are looking to partake in an egg hunt but don’t want to go through the tr… Read More
2023-03-24 19:35
Harry Potter: Magic at Play is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings the Wizarding World to life through hands-on magical moments and active play for witches and wizards of all ages. Explor… Read More
2023-03-24 19:28
Throughout history, women have played a significant role in shaping Chicago, yet their contributions are often overlooked. In this article, we will explore five Chicago landmarks that celebr… Read More
2023-03-21 19:54
For those who celebrate Passover in Chicago, finding the perfect meal can be challenging. Fortunately, there are several restaurants and catering services in the city that offer delicious Pa… Read More
2023-03-21 19:54
,For those who celebrate Passover in Chicago, finding the perfect dinner can be challenging. Fortunately, there are several restaurants and catering services in the city that offer delicious… Read More
2023-03-21 19:50
Thai food has become increasingly popular in Chicago, with many restaurants offering a wide range of authentic dishes. From traditional curries to spicy noodle soups, Chicago’s Thai re… Read More
2023-03-21 19:50
Thai food has become increasingly popular in Chicago, with many restaurants offering a wide range of authentic dishes. From traditional curries to spicy noodle soups, Chicago’s Thai re… Read More
2023-03-21 16:25
I’m sure more than a few music fans had March 21st circled on their calendar as the Lollapalooza 2023 lineup was released early Tuesday morning. The annual music festival will return t… Read More
2023-03-20 23:44
One thing Chicago is never short of is new culinary talents to discover. From female chefs to watch to the much-anticipated Taste of Chicago and Chicago Gourmet coming up in a few months, ou… Read More
2023-03-20 16:25
Chicago has long been known for its rich and diverse culinary scene, and in recent years, women-owned and led restaurants are on the rise. A growing number of female chefs and entrepreneurs… Read More
2023-03-17 17:15
Chicago is a romantic city, and what is romance without poetry? Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan, or rather hang out with your Emily Dickinson at a book bar on a cozy afternoon, you ca… Read More
2023-03-16 18:22
Famed Chicago Loop hotspot 312 Chicago (136 N. LaSalle Street, Chicago) is re-opening in late March 2023 just in time to celebrate its 25th Anniversary. After three years of being closed, th… Read More
2023-03-16 15:30
You know the Museum Campus in the South Loop. The Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium are hands down some of the most famous places to visit in the city, no questions asked… Read More
2023-03-16 04:04
The conference tournaments are said and done. Selection Sunday has passed. And whether you’re stressing over advanced metrics to find the right picks for The Perfect Bracket Challenge… Read More
2023-03-16 03:18
There are a handful of times you think on something and you can pinpoint the exact moment that thing changed. The NCAA Tournament is that moment and the thing that changes is my product… Read More
2023-03-14 21:35
Chicagoans hold a few things sacred: food, sports, sunny days, good drinks, and finally, an undefeatable restaurant or bar concept. Whether it’s through a distinctive atmosphere, an ap… Read More
2023-03-14 16:42
With all this St. Patrick’s Day (week, you mean?) drinking and partying, sugar, and carbs are a necessity. Then, what’s more suitable than taking advantage of Pi Day and grabbing… Read More
2023-03-14 15:10
We love how Chicago’s culinary scene is all about providing a platform for chefs to showcase their craft and give back to the community. Perfect for Women’s History Month, Mi Toc… Read More
2023-03-13 19:49
Opening Day is almost here! Long-time fans and new Cub enthusiasts, may I have your attention, please! Here are the best spots to watch the Cubs throw their first pitch in Chicago at the ope… Read More
2023-03-13 18:20
March is the month to honor the fantastic women entrepreneurs around us, too! Chicagoland is a prosperous hub for ambitious women, and we all know that. There are plenty of women-owned resta… Read More
2023-03-10 14:19
Famous for dyeing its river green, Chicago is one of the best U.S. cities for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Delicious food and joyful festivities for the river dyeing on March 11 and… Read More
2023-03-10 03:55
“With this historic pick. First time ever the Chicago Blackhawks have had the first pick. And we proudly select, from the London Knights, the Ontario Hockey League, Patrick Kane!&rdquo&hell…Read More
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