Summer in the City: Breakfast at Toast

I have to say, I admire Danielle SO much. She’s incredibly genuine and sweet, but is also extremely hard working and successful. As many of you probably know, she has her own blog, Breakfast at Toast, and also co-founded the Forbes-award winning site, The Everygirl. Every time I remember that she moved to Chicago on whim a few years ago (without knowing a soul!) I get so inspired by what can happen in your life if you open yourself up to change. Needless to say, we’re thrilled to have her here today to share some Chicago favorites.

1. Favorite restaurant? There are so many amazing restaurants in Chicago and I am probably the worst person to answer this question because I am not much of a foodie and do not eat out very often. In the summer I’d have to go with Big Star. I could sit on that patio and drink margaritas for hours. In the winter I think I’d choose Bandera. I love the ambiance and the veggie burger is the best thing I have ever had. There are a million places I am dying to try. Because it’s summer, I also have to recommend the rooftop at the Wit, the terrace at Trump, Benchmark, and the rooftop at Citizen (which was around the corner from my old apartment). 

2. Favorite savory dish? I live alone and have so little time to cook so I keep it simple. I do a little grilling in the summer, but that’s about it.

3. Favorite sweet? I love making ice pops. Strawberry mint and pina colada are my favorites. I also need to have Pinkberry at least once or twice each summer. 

4. Drink of choice? Margarita or Moscow Mule.

5. Favorite Chicago summer activity? I don’t mean to be vague, but anything that involves being outside works for me. Walking by the lake, movies in the park, fireworks, street festivals, dining on a patio, riding bikes etc. And my new favorite activity: boating! I went on a boat on the 4th of July and it was one of the best summer days I have ever experienced, minus the 109 degree temps. I’ll do anything that involves enjoying the warm weather since it comes and goes so quickly. 

6. What should be on an Everygirl’s summer bucket list? Everything that I mentioned in #5 plus working out and wearing sunscreen. Stay sun safe! 

Thanks Danielle! Popsicles are honestly on everyone’s mind this summer. If you haven’t made them yet, do it before the season ends! How good does strawberry mint sound?

Image credits: Big Star, grilled veggies, popsicles, moscow mule, boat