My Bike Betty

Category: Eats

• Art in the Belly

  Posted at 6:53 pm by jan, on May 27, 2015

  This week came and went with lots of spring time rain and temperatures that ranged from 45 to 80 HOWEVER, my glorious day off was a perfectly cloudless 65 degrees! Woo! Before our adventure began Betty and I made a quick stop off at the Daly Plaza where the season’s Farmers Market has begun and we’re surprised to find an Asian American Festival was also taking place.

  

  Next, we headed south to check out Mana Contemporary. Our route took us along the lake front bike path, over a bridge just past McCormick Place to 18th Street.

  

  Buckingham Fountain in full force welcoming all to Grant Park!

   

  First new discovery…

  

  The Spoke & Bird, 205 E 18th street. A quick rest and a tasty beverage in their garden courtyard and we’re off to Mana…

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  

  Mana Contemporary, 2233 S Throop Street

  In the past I had heard of art exhibitions at Mana but after a quick tour the emphasis here is on  fine art storage and handling, artist’s studios for rent, and gallery space to rent for events and to stage photography and presentations. Occasionally they have an artist’s studio open house and exhibit but I only learned this from one of the employees (currently no schedule or advertisement on their website).

  

  Last discovery was a wonderful little place a friend suggested I visit, Café Monsivás.

  

  Café Monsivás, 1637 W. 18th St., Sunday thru Thursday:
  9AM – Late Afternoon
  Friday and Saturday
  9AM-Dinner, BYOB, 312-772-8075

  A welcoming and cozy environment hosted by co-owners, Jesús Márquez and Katie Schlick Garcia, features good mojo, local art, and a MOST delicious menu.

  

  

  

  And then there was this!!!

  

  Roasted Stuffed Pablano Pepper! Created and prepared by Chef Katie.

  A million thanks to Katie and Jesús for a wonderful experience, great company, and a very happy belly! See you soon!

  Ok all, it’s time for Betty and I to head out but before we go here’s extending to you a great big invitation to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW and along the way look for artistic expression EVERYWHERE!

  -The residual purpose of art is purposeless play. This play however, is an affirmation of life–Not an attempt to bring order out of chaos nor to suggest improvements in creation, but simply a way of waking up to the very life we’re living, which is so excellent once one gets one’s mind and one’s desires out of its way and lets it act of its own accord. -John Cage

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers | 0 Comments | Tagged Bird & Spoke, Café Monsivás, Daly Plaza Chicago, Mana Contemporary Chicago

• My Community, My Home

  Posted at 8:09 pm by jan, on May 5, 2015

  This week Betty and I traveled south again to visit a friend and community we love, The National Museum of Mexican Art. But first we made a spontaneous decision and ate at a wonderful little corner restaurant. Family owned, I immediately felt at home in the intimate space where every corner is decorated with the personal touch of the mother who has ran it for years.

  

  Parkview Diner, 2000 W 19th Street

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  

  

  Today I was warmly greeted by the owner’s son, Nelson and prepared myself for one delicious meal!

   

   

  

  Fresh papaya juice and carne asada tacos! YUM AND YUM!!!

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Fully sustained we headed two blocks over…

  

  Through August 23rd, The House on Mango Street; Artists Interpret Community will be on exhibit at The National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W 19th Street.

  Inspired by and in response to Sandra Cisneros’ novel, 2-D and 3-D work by varied artists is collectively an incredible dialogue addressing social and societal issues adolescents face within their community and culture. Although I was initially sad I wouldn’t be able to take and share pictures with you, I began to think about the street art surrounding the museum and how appropriate, authentic, and consistent to the theme of the exhibition this work is. Consequently, Betty and I hit the road and found this… 

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  As a result of this wonderful day of new experiences, coupled with glorious warm day, I am very beyond grateful!

  Last, Betty and I are out for our next adventure but before we go we must encourage you to get out there, be aware of artistic expression EVERYWHERE and please, SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers | 1 Comment | Tagged Mexican Art Museum of Chicago, Parkview Diner Chicago

• Off the Beaten Path

  Posted at 5:47 pm by jan, on April 21, 2015

  Ending the week on a positive note, both my dog and I were sick, Betty and I headed over to explore a little spot of deliciousness called, Pi Gallery Bar.

  

  

  Located on the 2nd floor, above Clark Street Ale House at 738 N Clark Street, you’ll find artistic expression, scrumptious Neapolitan-style pizza, craft beer, and a warm environment.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  

  Various paintings by local artists hang gallery style along the walls…

  

  Or are painted on the environment’s surfaces like the ladies room door and…

  

  perhaps my favorite, the work of Pi’s creator, GM, and artist, Nick Martaus that covers all the cafe tabletops.

   Last, enjoy a cozy nook at the front of the house along with a kewl view, a tasty beer or cocktail by Pi’s very gracious and talented bartender Colin, and a moment away from the beaten path.

  

  Alright folks, Betty and I are out but first extending to you the invitation to get out there, explore, discover, look for artistic expression and best of all SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

   

  -The residual purpose of art is purposeless play. This play however, is an affirmation of life–Not an attempt to bring order out of chaos nor to suggest improvements in creation, but simply a way of waking up to the very life we’re living, which is so excellent once one gets one’s mind and one’s desires out of its way and lets it act of its own accord. -John Cage

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats | 0 Comments | Tagged Pi Gallery Bar Chicago

• Girls Gone Wild!

  Posted at 4:19 pm by jan, on March 15, 2015

  This past glorious week my dear Chicago has reached temperatures in the 50’s and Betty and I are riding around in a joyous craze! Looking for artistic expression at random, we begin at …

  

  The Handlebar, 2311 W North Ave, for a quick bite and…

  

  bathroom break.

  Next over to Division Street to explore.

  

  Alliance Bakery & Cafe, 1736 W Division, and Betty obsessing over cake creations.

  

  Monique Meloche Gallery, 2154 W. Division. Gallery hours are Tue – Sat, 11am-6pm. Nobody Knows My Name
  Abigail DeVille, http://moniquemeloche.com/onthewall/2582/ February 7 – May 30, 2015

  

  

  But not yet: in the spirit of linguistics
  Nate Young
  http://moniquemeloche.com/exhibitions/but-not-yet-in-the-spirit-of-linguistics/ February 7 – March 28, 2015

  

  Entrance to Black Bull, 1721 W Division St

  

  Departing Division street at Division and Milwaukee.

  

  A quick fortune in Chinatown (yep)

  IMG_1816

  

  The bridge at S. Canal leaving Chinatown

  And last, with a spring time infatuation, Tiki time…

  

  Lost Lake, 3154 W Diversey, and the latest Tiki bar project from craft cocktail bartender, Paul McGee.

  

  

  A cozy corner, a Punch Vieux (aged Rhum Agricole, cane sugar, lime), a view…

  

  a view detail (Betty made me do it)…

  

  And last, a big thanks to John for serving up delicious tropical delights (the signature Lost Lake, aged Jamaican rum, passionfruit, lime, pineapple, maraschino, campari)!

  So Betty and I are already looking to this next week where temperatures are forecasted to reach 70!!! But before we go we’re extending to all a great big invite to get out there, search for artistic expression, and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!

  -The residual purpose of art is purposeless play. This play however, is an affirmation of life–Not an attempt to bring order out of chaos nor to suggest improvements in creation, but simply a way of waking up to the very life we’re living, which is so excellent once one gets one’s mind and one’s desires out of its way and lets it act of its own accord. -John Cage

   

   

   

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers | 0 Comments | Tagged Black Bull Chicago, Lost Lake Chicago, Monique Meloche Gallery Chicago, The Handlebar Chicago

• Late 19th Century meets post World War II

  Posted at 7:20 pm by jan, on March 6, 2015

  Adventures for Betty and me began this week at the Driehaus Museum and ended with a victorious tasty beverage at Three dots and a Dash!

  

  The Driehaus Museum, 40 E. Erie Street, open to the public Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Admission $20 Adult
  $12.50 Senior (65+)
  $10 Student with valid I.D.
  $10 Youth (6-12 years)

  From America’s Gilded Age this home exhibits selected furnishings, art, sculpture, stained glass, and tapestry reflecting the wealthy during the 19th century…

   

  

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  

   

  Betty’s response: Where’s the tiki hut?

  The home also host exhibitions and now through January 3, 2016, Maker & Muse Women and Early Twentieth Century Art Jewelry can be viewed. Here are just a few exquisite favorites from this small metals collection…

  

  

  

  

  After our visit, and a very cold ride, Betty and I search for all that rejects winter! For us that was found at Three Dots and a Dash (Morse code used at the end of World War II announcing VICTORY!). Greeted by soothing Reggae music that evokes inviting Jamaican beaches, glorious delightful rum beverages, and a cozy atmosphere I am confident long sunny days of adventure are just around the corner!

  

  Three Dots and a Dash, originally from Don the Beachcomber 1940’s. Aged rhum Agricole, Guyanese Rum, honey, falernum, lime, allspice, Angostura bitters

   

  

  Painkiller No. 3, Virgin Islands rum, dark Jamacian rum, coconut, passionfruit, pineapple, and cream

  

  How adorable is this?! Bunny’s Banana Daiquiri, Jamaican rum, spiced rum, Overproof rum, coconut rum, banana, lime, nutmeg

  

  Dr. Funkhouser, Mezcal, Arrack, Jamacian rum, blackberry, pomegranate, lime, pineapple, falernum, and Absinthe

  

  Party of 2! Pieces of Eight, originally from Pieces of Eight Restaurant, Marina Del Ray, 1962. Light Caribbean rum, Passionfruit, lemon, Falernum

  

  Awesome Father-daughter neighbors, John and Jenna, enjoying a Pinky Gonzales. Originally created at Trader Vic, 1964. Reposado tequila, curacao, lime, orgeat.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  A great big thanks to our mixologist, Brenda! Great job gal! Along with my drink she recommended the Thai Fried Chicken that was super tasty…

  

  Mixed by Brenda, the No Bye, No Aloha, gin, spiced rum, passionfruit, lemon, Oloroso sherry, Orgeat, Falernum, Absinthe.

   

   

   

   

   

  Soooo one and all, Betty and I are off but first inviting you all to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW…along with keeping a close eye on artistic expression…-

  

  Just before entering Three Dots and a Dash!

  -The residual purpose of art is purposeless play. This play however, is an affirmation of life–Not an attempt to bring order out of chaos nor to suggest improvements in creation, but simply a way of waking up to the very life we’re living, which is so excellent once one gets one’s mind and one’s desires out of its way and lets it act of its own accord. -John Cage

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers | 0 Comments | Tagged Driehaus Museum Chicago, Maker & Muse women and Early Twentieth Century Art Jewelry, Three Dots and a Dash Chicago

• A 7th Inning Stretch Along our Magnificent Mile

  Posted at 7:35 pm by jan, on December 10, 2014

  Inhibition: How can I be interested in something I know nothing about?

  Betty’s Response: How can you not?

  Experience: As the end of 2014 approaches Betty and I are looking at doing the blog for one year (a 7th inning stretch no doubt) and for the record I’ve enjoyed every minute of it! This week we checked out Harry Carey’s Chicago Sports Museum in conjunction with his 7th Inning Stretch restaurant.

  

  Chicago Sports Museum, Water Tower Place, Level 7, 835 North Michigan Avenue

  

  Before entering the museum a quick snap in remembrence of American baseball broadcaster, Harry Caray.

  

  First stop a “fast ball” lesson…

  

  6′-6″ Michael Jordan demonstrates his vertical leap, a record at 48 inches. I measured a whapping 8 inches!

  

  The inside bars measure my wing span against Chicago Bulls Scottie Pippen.

  

  A replica of Chicago Bear, William “The Refrigerator” Perry’s size 25 ring…whaaaa?

  

  Handgrip strength? Weakling at best…5 lbs. Guard, Kyle Long of the Chicago Bears grip was off the gage as he measured well past a man’s average of 113 lbs.

  

  Apparently Harry Caray said some pretty outrageous things during his broadcasting career and has been impersonated by the best…

  

  Now you can too in this Broadcast booth!

  

  Several interactive simulated experiences where you face off with the pros…I’m the goalie loosing in this image 🙂

  

  And last a pretty awesome view of the Museum of Contemporary Art and in the distance Navy Pier.

  What I didn’t know: Everything about this experience I didn’t know, ha! Oh I’ve heard of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen but am totally green when it comes to sports. I did however have fun , got some good laughs at myself, had a delicious burger at 7th Inning Stretch (a meal receipt gets you into the museum for free saving you six bucks) and learned a little about Harry Caray and sports in general. It also spurred a desire to see a Blackhawks game…for real!

  So for now Betty and I move on but first extending to you a great big invitation to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers | 0 Comments | Tagged Chicago Bears, Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Sports Museum, Harry Caray Chicago

• Betty and Betty and Some Christmas Cheer

  Posted at 6:12 pm by jan, on November 13, 2014

  

  Innertown Pub, 1935 W. Thomas St. and the Bitter Betty Bazaar!

  Inhibition: Walking into a bar alone still inhibits me however, since the project began in January it doesn’t keep me from a new experience.

  Betty’s Response: Yea, cause no one cares.

  Experience: Innertown Pub hosted a really sweet bazaar that featured local artist’s work and with Christmas just around the corner Betty and I headed over for a look.

  

  Unique Creations and Art by Tina Spinelle and Mike Dixon, cspinelle@hotmail.com and mmmdixon@hotmail.com

  

  Le Cave Records + Crates, http://www.lecaverecords.com for super kewl hand crafted and screen printed crates.

  

  Delicious cider, coffe, and Bloody Mary drink specials and a chat with Vincent. He shares an envelope of images taken of his family and the surrounding neighborhood.

  

  Puffs of Doom @puffsofdoom!!!! For some serious deliciousness!! I had the bacon mac and cheese, puff-style! YUM!

  

  And onward in a cozy environment to check out Area 51, Bitter Betty Bath, Emerald Den Games/Knock Down Barnes, Forward Rewind Art & Design, Hotrocks, It’ll Glow on You Illustrations, Le Cave Records, Margaret Julia Designs, Pajaro Negro, Passion House Coffee Roasters, Puffs of Doom, Salvaged Metal Designs, Tarnish, Truss & Ore.

  And on a side note there were purchases made however, because they were for my family, otherwise known as my sole blog readers, they’ll remain under raps until Christmas.

  What I didn’t know: I had no idea what an terrific neighborhood bar Innertown Pub is, warm and inviting, and that this bazaar not only happened this November but will also take place Sunday, Dec. 7 from 12-6pm, Facebook.com/thebitterbettybazaar.

  Alright! Betty and I are off but first we must shout it out!!!…get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

  Posted in Eats, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 1 Comment | Tagged Bitter Betty Bath, Emerald Den Games/Knock Down Barnes, Forward Rewind Art & Design, Hotrocks, Innertown Pub Chicago, It'll Glow on You Illustrations, Le Cave Records, Margaret Julia Designs, November's Participating Vendors: Area 51, Pajaro Negro, Passion House Coffee Roasters, Puffs of Doom, Salvaged Metal Designs, Tarnish, Truss & Ore.

• An Adventure to Devon Avenue

  Posted at 5:17 pm by jan, on October 28, 2014

  Inhibition: To take trips of exploration on days I have to work.

  Betty’s Response: There’s this thing called a watch that, when used properly, will ensure you’ll be at work on time.

  Experience: Over the years I think I’ve missed a lot of opportunities to enjoy new experiences on days I work…mostly because I’m nervous I’ll be late to my job however, today I’m ready to challenge this frame of mind. It’s about 8 miles to a section of Devon Avenue I want to explore so I’m off!

  

  Parking Betty around the 2400 block of Devon Ave.

  

  I had so much fun checking out all the unique items Patel Bros. gift store at 2600 Devon Ave. Here I was careful to not loose track of time.

  

  

   

  

  Traditional Indian clothing stores line the streets with already or tailor made designs.

  

  Next a couple of grocery stores for tea biscuits, lentils, and spices.

  

   

  

  All this exploring led to a delicious meal of Madrasi chicken at the Curry Bowl.

  

  And finally I’m home, on time, with my varied goods and a big smile on my face from an awesome day!

  What I didn’t know: That you don’t have to wait for your day off to enjoy new experiences. I also didn’t know how satisfying and fulfilling your entire day is when there’s a balance of work and fun!

  So Betty and I are off but before we go we’re extending to you a great big invitation to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!!

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats | 0 Comments | Tagged Devon Ave. Chicago

• Embracing Fall and North Bound

  Posted at 6:32 pm by jan, on October 19, 2014

  Inhibition: To explore the Lakeshore Trail beyond my comfort zone (all week no sun).

  Betty’s Response: The temperature’s above 20 right?!

  Experience: Before my Lakeshore ride north, I wanted to head over to the Daly Plaza for one of the last farmer’s markets this season and to search out some noodles.

  

  Daly Plaza, Farmers Market (as Picasso’s Chicago sculpture looks on) every Thursday until the end of October

  

  Although I hate to see summer go beautiful colors and flavors of fall ease the pain.

  

   

   

  

  

  Relishing my farmer market finds, as the rain starts to sprinkle, I have an absolutely scrumptious lunch at the Slurping Turtle, 116 W. Hubbard while Betty awaits a ride.

  NEXT! The lake!

  

  Again I begin my ride at Oak Street and Michigan but this time head north.

  

  A peaceful invitation and extension to all along side the trail, artist Freitas Johnson, Ten Thousand Ripples.

  

  As it begins to rain I cut over to Lincoln Park.

  

  Chicago’s Belmont Harbor, stunning.

  What I didn’t know: That even though my ride was cut short because of rain my trip, along with today’s experiences, was a real joy…and what’s a little rain anyway!

  So as always Betty and I extend the invitation to you to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers | 0 Comments | Tagged Chicago Farmers Markets, Chicago Lakeshore Trail, Daly Plaza Chicago, Picasso Chicago

• 10 Months and a Shift in Perspective

  Posted at 6:07 pm by jan, on October 7, 2014

  This week’s entry is a little different and a suggestion by my dear friend and mother. October marks 10 months into the Betty project and October 3rd ARC Gallery opened a show where Betty and I are exhibiting a collective of this past year’s experiences.

  What I didn’t know when I began this project is how much fun I would have, how much I would learn about the city and those who live here, and best of all how liberating it would be to challenge my inhibitions as they slowing fade away.

  

  So without any reservation, Betty and I invite you to get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!

   

   

  Posted in An Extension To All, Eats, Museums, Galleries, Cultural Centers, Theaters, Festivals, Music, Parades | 0 Comments | Tagged ARC Gallery

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