Ms. Hyde Park

Talking to Hyde Park Locals-Pat

2010-05-19T09:38:00.005-05:00

This week's featured local is Pat, a career counselor and president of a local art cooperative. Here goes....

How long have you lived in Hyde Park? What brought you to the neighborhood and/or what keeps you here?
I lived in Hyde Park for 21 years from childhood through young adulthood and went to the U of C. Now I'm a member and president of Artisans 21 and work at the University as a career counselor.

How would you describe Hyde Park to someone who isn't familiar with it?
A somewhat collegiate small town that's extremely proud of its history and institutions.

You have friends visiting for the weekend-- What do you make sure to show them in the neighborhood?
The University, Obama's house and his hangouts-Valois, the barber shop, where Dixie Kitchen used to be, some of the wonderful tree-lined streets from the campus west, and of course Artisans 21.

What is your favorite restaurant and/or business in the area? What about it do you like? What do you recommend there?
I really like La Petite Folie; it's reasonable and white tablecloth. Medici never disappoints and I almost always have lunch at Shinju Sushi next door to Artisans on 53rd Street.

How do you feel about the Harper Court development project and community re-development in general? How do you feel it will impact the neighborhood? What type of development would you like to see, if any?
While Artisans was evicted, Dixie Kitchen's no more (except for a few menu items at Calypso), I think it will be good for the neighborhood. The University needs a hotel so [its] visitors would actually stay and shop and dine in the neighborhood. Hopefully there will be someplace to get "ordinary" clothes without going downtown: jeans, sweaters, socks, regular stuff.

Overall, how do you feel about the neighborhood?
Like most people who live or almost live in Hyde Park, I love it, am defensive about it and would be happy to move back.

Bonus Question: Feel free to talk about any neighborhood-related issues or topics that I haven't touched on, suggest a question to be included in future interviews, and/or plug your own website or a cause you're passionate about.
www.artisans21gallery.com
www.knittingkniche.com

Favorite Things- Garifuna Flava Restaurant

2010-05-16T10:03:00.009-05:00

Ok, so this week's featured spot isn't in Hyde Park, but it is one of the best restaurants I've been to on the south side, and so I think it deserves a shout out.

Mr. Hyde Park and I were feeling like something different and wanted to stay on the south side, so we did a little research and came across Garifuna Flava (2516-2518 W 63rd St), a Caribbean and Belizean/Garifuna restaurant with rave reviews on Yelp. The place, which has developed somewhat of a cult following, is known especially for its jerk chicken, but has a full menu of authentic Caribbean seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes.

Garfuna Flava (2516 W. 63rd)
Image from http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=436863656&albumId=864437

The restaurant is at Western and 63rd, so it's just a quick drive west from Hyde Park. The neighborhood is a bit rougher around the edges than what some Hyde Parkers may be used to, but we parked in the lot right next to the restaurant and never felt uncomfortable or unsafe. We went on a Friday night last month at 7ish and the place was completely empty except for one other group. I always feel a little uncomfortable going into a restaurant that's near empty, especially when I've never been there before or I'm not that familiar with the cuisine (I worry it'll be too obvious we don't know what we're doing...). The server we had, though, went out of his way to make us feel comfortable, explaining the menu, telling us a little about the Garifuna culture, and giving us recommendations about what to try.

Half Jerk Chicken w/ Spicy Jerk Sauce
Image from http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=436863656&albumId=864437

We ordered conch fritters (which were really fresh and flavorful) to start and then both got the jerk chicken which is, hands down, the best jerk chicken--maybe even the best chicken, period-- I have ever had. (Yes, better than at Calypso Cafe...) The seasoning was on point, the meat was juicy, and it was spicy but not so hot that we couldn't taste the other complex spices. It comes with a delicious gravy/hot sauce that was so tasty I could drink it (according to the waiter, the kid at the table next to us did, in fact, drink a few little cups of it...) The jerk chicken I've had in the past, including at Calypso, often seems to have an artificial liquid-smoke taste to it, but this just tasted really fresh and tangy, with a rich natural smokiness. We had TONS of food (and Belizean beer) and, considering the quality of what we got, it was extremely affordable.

Red Snapper Dinner w/ Rice & Beans, Plantain & Potato Salad
Image from http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=436863656&albumId=864437

As I mentioned above, the restaurant-- in spite of it's delicious fresh food and amazing service-- was pretty empty on a weekend night at a prime dinner hour. This makes me really sad because this type of home-grown, mom and pop business is really great for the neighborhood and the south side in general. I worry that a gem like this will not survive if people don't go out of their way to support it. With that said, I urge you to take the little trip and check it out. If you like it, tell Yelp, tell your friends, tweet about it, and do whatever you can to spread the word.

Andersonville, The Other Woman

2010-05-15T08:39:00.014-05:00

I've been with Hyde Park for a really long time and, for the most part, I love her dearly. But our relationship is a lot like a marriage... It takes some work to keep the spark alive and there are some things about her that really irk me. I'm not going to lie, once in a while, my eyes begin to wander. I start to daydream about what it might be like to be with someone else-- Would things be more exciting? Would I be more fulfilled?

I've even gone so far as to develop a little crush on someone else. Not any of the obvious temptations-- not sleek and sexy River North, young and flirty Lakeview, classy, sophisticated Lincoln Park, or edgy and mysterious Wicker Park. Nope, I've got a little thing for Andersonville, the cute, down-to-earth girl next door. (Not familiar with the neighborhood? Check out its official website here.)

Top: 53rd Street in Hyde Park (from http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/72/53rd_st_Hyde_Park.JPG)
Bottom: Clark Street in Andersonville (from: http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/14/c6/ce/clark-st-in-andersonville.jpg

What is it about her that drew me in? Well, she's definitely my type, i.e. very approachable and easy-going, yet interesting without being frivolous or overly trendy. She's also got a lot in common with my main squeeze, Hyde Park. She too is a bit off the beaten path-- she's as far north as we are south, but, like Hyde Park, she's right by the lake and Lake Shore Drive and thus easy to zip to from other parts of the city. The locals are unpretentious and cool, but not too trendy or overly hip. Also like Hyde Park, Andersonville has a small-town feel that it's very proud of-- the website even describes the neighborhood as a "quaint village in the middle of a world class city." The homes in the neighborhood are not as architecturally interesting as in Hyde Park, but the buildings along its main drag (Clark street from Hollywood to a little south of Foster) are the same low-slung, 50s-era storefronts you find on 53rd and 57th Streets.

What's different and in some ways more attractive about Andersonville is that it is packed to the gills with fun, interesting, exciting businesses and restaurants. Within a one mile stretch on Clark, are affordable tapas, sushi, small plate Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern, Morrocan, Belgian, gastropub, southern, and brunch spots, not to mention several fun bars. In general, these restaurants are unpretentious and affordable, but the interiors are well-decorated, the menus are thoughtfully planned, the service is solid and professional, and the food is legitimately good and even innovative at times. Andersonville is home to my hands-down-favorite bar/restaurant in the city, the Hopleaf, which has an amazing beer selection and serves up simple and cheap sandwiches and fries but also offers some upscale fare that competes with any restaurant I've been to in a so-called hip neighborhood. The place is always packed and people are willing to drive there from all over the city. I've tweeted about this before, but I see no reason why Hyde Park couldn't sustain a place like this, as it fills so many needs-- a fun bar, affordable food for college students or those on a budget, and nicer options for special occasions or those who have more expensive tastes.

Don't get me wrong, Hyde Park has some very good restaurants and fun bars. To be totally honest, though, I feel like I often have to overlook little "quirks," like slow service, outdated decor, everything-but-the-kitchen-sink menus (e.g. guacamole on an Italian menu), and excessively high prices for food that is good, but rarely innovative or exciting. There's also the obvious issue of there just not being enough options, particularly when it comes to restaurants that sit somewhere between super cheap take-out and special occasion spots. The Snail or the Med, for example, are great for a quick weeknight dinner and Park 52 or La Petite Folie are perfect for your birthday or anniversary, but they are too expensive to visit often.

Ok, ok, I'm going to stop here because Hyde Park is still my main girl and I don't want you to think that I don't love and appreciate her for what she is. (I'm not going to go into the details here because that's what I talk about in virtually every other post, but there are of course things I love about Hyde Park that Andersonville could never compete with.) It's just that I think she's capable of more. Neither Hyde Park or Andersonville is the prettiest girl in the room, but both have a special something that catches your eye and hooks you in. Andersonville, though, does a better job of keeping your attention once she's wooed you. It's like this-- Andersonville knows some people love her, but--given that she's off the beaten path and not the hippest hood in the city-- she knows that she needs to style her hair, put some perfume on, and do a little flirting if she's going to keep folks interested. Hyde Park, on the other hand, seems to have let her self go a little bit. She's started wearing sweat pants to bed. She knows that she has the University of Chicago population and folks who want to be in a thriving south side neighborhood in the palm of her hand, so she doesn't feel like she has to work at keeping the spark alive. The thing is, we (Hyde Park locals) are putting a lot into this relationship-- we pay relatively high rent to live here and we invest a lot of money in local businesses, even when there are often more affordable and/or higher quality options in other parts of the city. It's only fair that our neighborhood meet us half way. Local spots owe it to us to step up their game-- to improve their service, to get real leather menu covers, to repaint their walls, to spruce up their menus. And I think the Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce should be doing more to lure businesses here, to demonstrate that there is a great need and captive market for more dining and entertainment. Yes, the new Harper Court development may help-- but Andersonville didn't need plastic surgery to woo suitors and neither should we.

This Weekend in Hyde Park....

2010-05-14T15:58:00.007-05:00

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? No need to travel out of Hyde Park! Here's what's going on in the neighborhood:

Friday (5/14)

Hyde Park Garden Fair at Hyde Park Shopping Center (55th St. & Lake Park) 9AM-6PM.
A Single Man (2009) at Doc Films (1212 East 59th) 7PM, 9PM, & 11PM. $5 admission.
Revel in the Rhythm, Rhythmic Bodies in Motion's Annual Spring Showcase at Mandel Hall (1131 East 57th) 7-9PM, $10 at the door ($7 if purchased in advance).
Live Improv Show: Montezuma, Eat Your Heart Out, Off-Off Campus’ Spring Revue at University Theater (5706 South University Ave) 9PM, $4 admission.
Cocktails and Clay at Hyde Park Art Center (5020 S. Cornell) 8PM-midnight. Free general admission. Live DJ, dancing, drink specials, and clay making workshops in a cool gallery setting.
Sizwe Banzi is Dead at Court Theater (5535 S. Ellis) 8PM, Purchase tickets here.
Hasan Khan live at Chant (1509 E. 53rd) 9:30PM-12:30PM, no cover, 18% gratuity added to all tabs.

Saturday (5/15)

Hyde Park Garden Fair at Hyde Park Shopping Center (55th St. & Lake Park) 9AM-4PM.
Live dance performances "En Falda Roja" by Silvita Diaz and "Auto Body" by Elena at the Opportunity Shop (1530 E 53rd) 7:30PM, free admission
Sizwe Banzi is Dead at Court Theater (5535 S. Ellis) 8PM, Purchase tickets here.
T'Chaka Abdiraxman-Issa live at Chant (1509 E. 53rd) 9:30PM-12:30PM. No cover, 18% gratuity added to all tabs.
Summer Breeze Music Festival, with live performances by Nas, Damian Marley, and Dirty Projectors at Hutchinson Courtyard (5706 S. University) 5Pm-11PM, must have UChicago ID to purchase tickets. $20(students)/$25(faculty) at the door.

Sunday (5/16)

Passport to Jazz with Eric Schneider’s Hot Dixieland Quartet at the Oriental Institute (1155 E. 58th St). 2PM. Free Admission.
Sizwe Banzi is Dead at Court Theater (5535 S. Ellis) 2:30PM and 7:30PM, Purchase tickets here.
Koku live at Chant's Sunday Brunch (1509 E. 53rd) 12PM-3PM. No cover, 18% gratuity added to all tabs.

Talking to Hyde Park Locals- TA

2010-05-04T21:37:00.008-05:00

Talking to Hyde Park Locals is back! This week's featured local is TA, a 25 year old University of Chicago employee and soon-to-be-grad student. All of the pictures you see in this article were taken by TA himself. Here goes....

University of Chicago Campus in winter

How would you like to be referred to on the blog? (e.g. first name, initials, or a nickname-- whatever you feel comfortable with)
TA

About how old are you? What's your occupation? Feel free to be as vague or specific as you want...
I'm 25 and work at the University. I will be starting an MA program here in the fall.
How long have you lived in Hyde Park? What brought you to the neighborhood and/or what keeps you here?I have lived in Hyde Park since the Fall of 2003 when I moved into the Shoreland as a first year undergrad at the University. After graduation, I got a job with the University and have resided in Hyde Park ever since. The University brought me to Hyde Park, but after graduation, the walkable community, great lake access, and easy access to downtown are what have kept me here. I'm particularly partial to East Hyde Park.

Behind the scenes at Doc Films

How would you describe Hyde Park to someone who isn't familiar with it?
Hyde Park is like a good-sized town/small city within the larger Chicago community. It is small enough to walk/bike wherever you want to go in the community, but it is big enough to have diverse eating, shopping, and entertainment options.

You have friends visiting for the weekend-- What do you make sure to show them in the neighborhood?
The Point! Also Doc Films (where I project), the Obama House, MSI, Oriental Institute, University of Chicago campus, and Osaka Garden in Jackson Park. Renting a bike is an excellent way to do all of this.

Lake Michigan

What is your favorite restaurant and/or business in the area? What about it do you like? What do you recommend there?
My favorite restaurant is Calypso Cafe in the soon-to-be-gone Harper Court. Definitely have the plaintain nachos with jerked chicken. With that and a tropical drink you can easily make a full meal. Another business would be Open Produce on 55th...great selection of produce, good prices, and amazing people.

How do you feel about the Harper Court development project and community re-development in general? How do you feel it will impact the neighborhood? What type of development would you like to see, if any?
If it happens, I would be excited. I'll be sad to see Calypso/Dixie Kitchen go, but I would appreciate greater shopping, entertainment, and food options. 53rd Street and Lake Park are both good streets for high-density developments like this. While other places in Hyde Park would not work for something like this, the proposed location is good.

What do you think the neighborhood is missing (if anything)? What do you see as the barriers to Hyde Park having this?
Generally: more entertainment and a transit line downtown would be ideal. Specifically: A Trader Joe's and an all night diner/eatery would be great. Seems like a perfect market for these.

Overall, how do you feel about the neighborhood?
I really love Hyde Park. You have fantastic lake views, a homey neighborhood vibe, and a surprisingly diverse and intelligent population that is completely unique within Chicago. More recognition for the neighborhood would be fantastic, but I hope that it doesn't lose its quirky vibe.

Bonus Question: Feel free to talk about any neighborhood-related issues or topics that I haven't touched on, suggest a question to be included in future interviews, and/or plug your own website or a cause you're passionate about.
The Point! Something desperately needs to be done to renovate it. I'm terrified waiting for the summer when someone is impaled on a steel girder and the city shuts the Point down for good. The Compromise Plan that was proposed a few years ago was a great idea but never came of anything. I would love to see this blog ask the Save the Point movement why this plan was unacceptable and if their opinion has changed since. An exploration of this debate would be great.

[SAVE THE POINTERS (AND EVERYONE ELSE TOO), I'M THROWING THIS QUESTION BACK AT YOU-- I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR THOUGHTS! FEEL FREE TO POST THEM IN THE COMMENT BOX, OR EMAIL THEM TO ME AND I'LL POST 'EM]

Thanks to TA for taking the time to do the Q&A! If you're interested in sharing your thoughts, you can fill out the survey here.

Favorite Things: The Beach/Lake Michigan

2010-05-02T14:29:00.009-05:00

Ok, so I know that this Hyde Park gem is pretty well known already (at least to locals), but I'm going to dedicate this "Favorite Things" post to the Lake and the cool things along its shore. Why am I writing about this now, when it's not quite summer yet? Well, partly because I've been gazing out my window at the turquoise water, fantasizing about playing hooky from work and spending the afternoon digging my toes into the sand while I read a magazine. Also, I've recently had to spend a bit of time along the lake path up north (jogging with northsider friends who, of course, would never volunteer to meet me in my neck of the woods!) and I'm pretty convinced that the south side part of the trail is better.

A little-known fact about Hyde Park is that it was once popular as a weekend getaway for northsiders. The Shoreland, Windermere, and Flamingo buildings (among several others that have been razed) were once cushy resorts that attracted tourists looking to spend a few days lounging on a quiet beach. These resorts, as we all know, have been transformed into apartment buildings and, ironically, there remain few hotels in the neighborhood, but Hyde Park still possesses a little hint of its beach town past.

Photo via http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/3706627894_4451b5962d.jpg

Many Hyde Park locals have the luxury of living in these one-time resorts, or in other similar buildings that are literally only steps from the water. Lakefront property south of the Loop-- for better or worse--is drastically cheaper than on the north side, which means that even average Janes like me can afford to live right on the water.

Within the boundaries of Hyde Park, the shores of the lake are clean and quiet, without industrialization or the eyesore parking lots, concrete blocks, imported palm trees, and gravel-y sand found along the lake's north-side shores. 57th Street Beach is admittedly tiny and completely under the radar of non-Hyde Parkers, but it is--probably because it's so unknown-- one of the nicest, calmest beaches I've been to in the city. It can get a little crowded on hot weekend days, but at its worst it is still waaay more low-key than any of the other city beaches I've been to. Another nice thing about it is that Promontory Point juts out into the water and essentially cuts it off from the rest of the lake, which seems to block the gravel, trash, and seaweed that so often washes ashore at huge, wide-open beaches like Montrose Beach. There's also a cute little snack shop on the beach where you can get ice cream and cold drinks.

As much as I love the beach, I know we still have at least a month or so before we will truly be able to enjoy it. In the mean time, the weather is perfect for taking advantage of the lake path. The south side portion of the trail is way less crowded than the north side--so you're not constantly having to elbow your way through crowds of joggers--but you still get the same views of the lake and a better view of the city skyline. You also get to pass some pretty nifty stuff along the way. My favorite spots along the lake are, in no particular order:

Promontory Point: (Locals bear with me...) A man-made stone peninsula that juts out into the water, offering the hands-down best views of the city you can get anywhere. It's a great place to barbecue-- they even have firepits! [Thanks to PhotoTravel1, aka Jim Watkins for the beautiful photo!]

The Promontory Point Field House: A field house that looks pretty much like a small medieval castle, which is made even cooler by the fact that it sits on a stony peninsula in the lake. FYI, this is a great, cheap place to have a wedding or other fancy reception. (Almost had mine there!) [Thanks to TonytheTiger for the photo]

63rd Street Beach House: A cool old beach pavilion with national landmark status, complete with pretty (and fun-to-play-in) water fountains, balconies, and, again, striking views of the city. I never would have thought of it myself, but look at these AMAZING pictures of a wedding that was held here last year. [Thanks to TonytheTiger for the photo]

The Model Yacht Basin, aka "Boat Pool": Ok, so this is not technically on the lake, but I'm including it since it's right on the other side of Lake Shore Drive and visible from the lake trail. Located at the north end of Harold Washington Park, the "boat pool" is a shallow reflection pool, with a sculpture by Italian sculptor Virginio Ferrari at its center. The pool/pond/whatever-it-is is pretty nice to look at, particularly at night, and-- on the off chance that you own a toy sail boat-- you can take it there for a sail. [Thanks to PhotoTravel1, aka Jim Watkins for the beautiful photo below!] Also, check out this photostream by Mojosmom for more images of the pond.

Hyde Parkers, would you have anything else to add to this list?

Apologies, etc.

2010-05-02T14:17:00.003-05:00

As many of you have no doubt noticed, I have again been MIA from the blog for a while. I'm not going to make excuses other than to say that I have been overwhelmed at work and just struggling to find the time and energy to write. With that said, I'm going to try my best to get back on the ball, and hope you all will have me back.

Best,
Ms. Hyde Park

On NYC and Falling Back in Love with Hyde Park

2010-04-04T10:11:00.011-05:00

As some of you may have noticed, I haven't been very active on the blog or on twitter as of late. I've been out of town for part of this time (more about that below) and just under the radar for the rest. For a minute, as I'll explain below, I lost my way and started to question my die-hard devotion to my hometown of Chicago and then generalized that frustration to my beloved Hyde Park neighborhood. What I realize now is that, while there are many things about Chicago that I love, there are some things about it that deeply disappoint me. Hyde Park, though, is one place that manages (for the most part) to overcome these obstacles and thus, after a brief period of questioning, my love for it still burns true.

It all started with the aforementioned trip out of town. Overwhelmed by work and in need of a vacation, Mr. Hyde Park and I bought tickets to New York City. I'd never spent any time there and had never really understood why everyone made such a big deal about it. Well, 10 minutes off the plane and I was deep in love or infatuation or something else really intense for the Big Apple. I'd always imagined that NYC would be just a bigger, dirtier, more expensive version of Chicago. It was, in fact, all of those things, but also much more. It was also packed with energy, culture, diversity, and history in a way that our (comparatively little) Midwestern city just is not. Every neighborhood I saw in Manhattan and Brooklyn, whether in the center of the city or tucked in a far away corner, was full of beautiful old architecture, multicultural restaurants and businesses, and hidden history (e.g. a 17th century Sephardic Jewish cemetery tucked into a corner of Chinatown, an aging stop on the Underground Railroad in the middle of a posh Brooklyn neighborhood).

What my time in New York made me realize about Chicago is that, in spite of the amazing diversity and complexity within its city limits, Chicago can often feel alarmingly homogeneous. A white kid who grows up on the northwest side or a black kid who grows up on the south side may rarely if ever have the chance to develop a friendship with a person of another race, to try the food of a different culture, or to visit an important cultural institution outside of the comfort-zone within which his family is willing and able to travel. There are real and deeply entrenched (albeit invisible) lines and walls that exist throughout Chicago and keep us sorted into rigid groups. In my admittedly limited experience in Manhattan and Brooklyn, though, these lines seemed less apparent and less powerful. People seemed willing and able to freely move within all parts of the city, to ride the bus or train with people who looked different from them, or to walk through a neighborhood where they were not a member of the majority culture. I don't doubt that New York has its fair share of racial and economic tensions (I definitely sensed some in Harlem between new yuppy homeowners and longtime locals), but I think that, overall, New York feels far more mature than Chicago in terms of intercultural relations, and I got a little jealous. [As a side note, I fully acknowledge that I don't know NYC intimately and may not see things as locals do. If you know New York well, I would love to hear your thoughts on this!]

When I first left New York, I had a bad taste in my mouth about Chicago. I was reluctant to return to a city where many live in areas where 99% of their neighbors look just like them and the other 1% are treated with mistrust or, at best, discomfort...where many need a car to get to the grocery store...where historical buildings are often destroyed to make way for condos. But then I came home to my beloved Hyde Park and was reminded of why I chose to live here. As a resident of Hyde Park, I'm lucky enough to get to walk past buildings every bit as beautiful and historical as those I saw in NYC, to live beside people with different backgrounds from my own, to have a selection of academically solid and extremely diverse public schools to send my children to (someday), to be able to walk only a block to pick up fresh produce or tasty ethnic food, to hop a bus to get easily to anything my neighborhood doesn't have. Does Hyde Park feel a bit quiet compared to NYC? Absolutely. But, how many Manhattanites have a beautiful beach and 2 or 3 beautiful parks within a mile of their home? Also, our skyline (particularly viewed from Hyde Park) is way better than theirs. So there.

Artisans 21 Gallery-- March 20th Event

2010-03-17T00:29:00.004-05:00

Judith Guajardo from Artisans 21 Cooperative Gallery sent this press release my way. The event sounds really neat, so take a looksee....

Artisans 21 Gallery, Hyde Park’s leading gallery and gift shop, located at 1373 E. 53^rd Street, Chicago, will hold a day of demonstrations on Saturday, March 20, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Learn how to create beautiful art and gifts from recyclables. Join us as our artists demonstrate some fun and easy techniques to turn your trash into treasures. Kids are welcome too.

Artisans 21 Gallery is a cooperative gallery of 20 artisans and craftsmen who sell their work in the gallery as well as work there. Prospective members (artists) are juried according to standards of originality, craftsmanship, and congeniality.

For additional information, call 773.288.7450.

Talking to Hyde Park Locals- Hannah Q.

2010-03-10T20:12:00.005-06:00

This week's featured Hyde Park local is 25 year old Hannah Q. who works as a Library Assistant at the Newberry Library, while earning her Master of Library & Information Science. Here's what she has to say about the neighborhood:

How long have you lived in Hyde Park? What brought you to the neighborhood and/or what keeps you here?
This is my 3rd year in Hyde Park. My husband and I moved here for his graduate school program.

How would you describe Hyde Park to someone who isn't familiar with it?
I think of Hyde Park as being really relaxed. We don't have tons of retail or bar options, but we have the beautiful U of C campus, easy access to the lake and beaches, and tons of parks. I love the cultural options like Robie House, the Museum of Science & Industry, Hyde Park Art Center, Doc Films and all the amazing book shops.

You have friends visiting for the weekend-- What do you make sure to show them in the neighborhood? The Point, Jimmy's [Woodlawn Tap], dinner at Cedars [Mediterranean Kitchen], brunch at The Medici, worship at Saint Paul & the Redeemer Episcopal Church.

What is your favorite restaurant and/or business in the area? What about it do you like? What do you recommend there?
It used to be Dixie Kitchen. Brunch at The Med is always amazing. One of my favorite places in neighborhood is Hyde Park Produce--I'm in there almost every day.

How do you feel about the Harper Court development project and community re-development in general? How do you feel it will impact the neighborhood? What type of development would you like to see, if any?
From what I have read and seen of the project so far, I am mostly in favor of it. In particular, I think that Hyde Park needs more hotel and retail options. And I would love to see more jobs created.

What do you think the neighborhood is missing (if anything)? What do you see as the barriers to Hyde Park having this? Grocery stores. I love having fresh produce stores in the neighborhood, but for my other grocery needs, Treasure Island just doesn't cut it. It is generally more expensive, poorly laid out, and lacks many items we look for. We end up driving to Jewel or Dominick's in other parts of the city to stock up every few weeks. Also, these new CTA cuts are going to make traveling even more difficult for Hyde Parkers as we rely on the 55 bus to get to the Metra and L stations.

Overall, how do you feel about the neighborhood?
Overall, I really feel at home in Hyde Park and enjoy living here. That said, I am glad that I work in another neighborhood, as Hyde Park can feel like an island within the city.

Bonus Question: Feel free to talk about any neighborhood-related issues or topics that I haven't touched on, suggest a question to be included in future interviews, and/or plug your own website or a cause you're passionate about.
I have a photo blog zhparris.blogspot.com where I post pictures from around Hyde Park and my life in general. I'd love to have folks stop by and have a look!

Time Out Chicago versus Chicago Reader: Battle of the Hyde Park Issues

2010-03-07T10:25:00.007-06:00

Just a couple weeks after Time Out Chicago (TOC) put out its What's Wrong with Hyde Park issue (see my post about it here), the Chicago Reader has released its own Hyde Park and Kenwood Issue. If you haven't had the chance to read it, you can check it out here.

Those of you who read my post about the TOC issue may recall that, even though I was bothered by the somewhat negative tone of the title and some of the articles, I generally felt positively about the way the magazine argued for the need for more commerce, entertainment, and dining in Hyde Park. Now that I've read the Chicago Reader issue, though, I'm feeling like I gave TOC too much credit....

As the title suggested, the TOC edition focused essentially on what Hyde Park is missing. The Reader's Hyde Park & Kenwood issue, in contrast, reads like a laundry list of all that is great about the neighborhood. It provides an amazingly extensive guide to local dining, entertainment, shops, bars, arts, theater, and architecture (check it out here, under the Street Level heading). What is refreshing about the Reader issue is that the spin on all of its articles is overwhelmingly positive, yet honest and objective. Whereas TOC used the term "wasteland" to describe the neighborhood, the Reader notes,,"[Hyde Park] is a zip down Lakeshore Drive to astounding treasures." The Reader doesn't, though, ignore the challenges and deep-rooted issues that come into play in the neighborhood. Rather, it thoughtfully explores the complex tension and interdependence between the University and the community and how it plays into local political debates such as the contention over the 6st Street Community Garden.

When all is said and done, the Reader paints a picture of Hyde Park as a community that is fiercely independent, uniquely diverse, and thriving in a way that few other communities could. It values Hyde Park on its own merit and history, unlike TOC which seemed to define it by comparing it to north side communities that may have more yuppy hotspots, but lack the history, culture, and socioeconomic, racial, and cultural diversity and richness that Hyde Park possesses. Some more high quality food and dining in the neighborhood would definitely be nice, but the Reader reminded me that these things are relatively insignificant when you look at the big picture of what living in Hyde Park is all about.

Things to do this weekend! March 6 & 7

2010-03-06T17:00:00.007-06:00

Hi folks! So I confess, I completely flaked on putting together this weekend's "Things to Do." Since I already missed last night and most of today, here's a short list of some cool things going on in Hyde Park this weekend:

Saturday (March 6)

Notes to Nonself Concert and Puppet Show, Hyde Park Art Center (5020 S. Cornell Ave.) Begins at 7pm. Donations suggested. For more info call (773) 324-5520
DJ Born live at Chant After Dark (1509 E. 53rd) Begins at 9:30PM. No cover, but 18% gratuity added to all tabs..
Paranormal Activity at Doc Films (Max Palevsky Cinema, Ida B. Noyes Hall, 1212 E. 59th) Showings at 7PM and 9PM. $5 general admission.

Sunday (March 7)

Free admission to Dusable Museum of African American History (740 E. 56th) Open 12PM-5PM, free general admission all day.
Lecture by architect David Swan: "The Autobiography of Irving K. Pond and Pond & Pond Work in Hyde Park" followed by walking tour of Pond & Pond buildings in Hyde Park. Hyde Park Historical Society (5529 S Lake Park) Lecture begins at 1PM, walking tour at 2PM, free.
Passport to Jazz with Reginald Robinson, Oriental Institute (1155 E. 58th) 2PM-4PM. No cover.
Paranormal Activity at Doc Films (Max Palevsky Cinema, Ida B. Noyes Hall, 1212 E. 59th) Showing at 1PM. $5 general admission.
New Moon at at Doc Films (Max Palevsky Cinema, Ida B. Noyes Hall, 1212 E. 59th) Showing at 3:15. $5 General Admission

Favorite Things in Hyde Park: Powell's Books

2010-03-02T13:43:00.006-06:00

My recent favorite things posts have focused a lot on restaurants and grocers in Hyde Park. This wasn't intentional per se, but I'm a foody and want to show folks Hyde Park has more than they might expect in that department. I definitely have more to say about food and dining in the neighborhood, but I've been overlooking some other great aspects of Hyde Park and want to give them their moment in the spotlight.

With that being said, I'm planning to focus some of my upcoming Favorite Things posts on one of Hyde Park's major claims to fame-- its diverse array of new, used, and antiquarian book stores. For those who are less familiar with the area, Hyde Park is home to several long-standing and nationally well-known Chicago bookselling institutions including 57th Street Books/Seminary Co-op Bookstore, Powell's Books, and O'Gara & Wilson Book Sellers, not to mention our nice but run-of-the-mill Borders and Barnes and Noble store. All of these shops are within a few blocks of each other--most of the same small stretch of 57th-- and each has a unique niche and vibe. I confess, I'm almost as much of a bookstore junky as I am a foody, so bear with me.

This week's featured spot is Powell's Books (1501 E. 57th-- just west of the train tracks, a couple blocks from the museum). Powell's specializes in used, rare, and "academic and scholarly" books. They even have what looks like a mini museum/gallery of rare special edition books from as early as the 1700s. If you're not into academia or antiquarian book collecting, though, don't worry, they also have a big selection of used fiction, comics, art and design books, not to mention all kinds of neat coffee-table-type books (great for last minute holiday gifts!) .

What makes this bookstore so distinctive and fun is that it's also kind of a hang out for locals and a destination spot for Chicagoans from other parts of the city. Unlike most small, independent book shops, Powell's is open until 11PM every night of the week which means people drop in after diner or even on their way out for drinks. I was there once on a Friday night at 10ish and there was actually a young couple there on what seemed to be a first date and, believe it or not, I'm pretty sure they weren't U of C students, as neither appeared to know the area or the store well (I admit, I was eavesdropping a little...). After the couple wandered around the shop for a while, the date ended with the guy buying his date a heavy, rare law encyclopedia. Extremely nerdy? Maybe...but also representative of the store and the neighborhood's quirky vibe.

There is certainly a time and a place for Amazon.com, Borders, and Barnes & Noble, but there is nothing like meandering through walls and walls of books without looking for anything in particular. There aren't many places like Powell's left in the city, and the few that are left really need our support. So, I urge you to check out Powell's next time you're nearby....and maybe even bring a date.

Things to Do This Weekend in Hyde Park (2/26-2/28)

2010-02-26T14:48:00.007-06:00

No plans yet for the weekend? Here's a list of goings-on in Hyde Park and nearby. If you know of a cool event that's not on the list, post it as a comment!

Friday, February 26

Julia Huff live at Chant (1509 E. 53rd) 9:30PM -12:30AM, No cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs
Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge (5201 S. Harper) 8PM-2AM, $10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum

Saturday, February 27

Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre (CRDT) presents its annual “Jubilation” performance at DuSable Museum of African American History (740 E 56th Pl.) 8PM, $30 general admission
South Shore Opera Company of Chicago presents its Annual Salute to Black History Month at South Shore Cultural Center (7059 S. South Shore Dr.) 5:30 p.m., free admission
Ester Hana live at Chant (1509 E. 53rd) 9:30PM -12:30AM, No cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs
Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge (5201 S. Harper) 8PM-3AM, $10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum

Sunday, February 28

Kerry Leung live at at Chant's Sunday Brunch (1509 E. 53rd) 12PM-3PM
Opening reception of Matt Saunders' Parallel Plot Exhibition at Renaissance Society (5811 S. Ellis Avenue) 4PM-7PM, free admission.

Ongoing

Contemporary art exhibitions at Renaissance Society (5811 S. Ellis Avenue, 773.702.8670)
Permanent art collection and rotating special exhibitions at Smart Museum of Art (5550 S. Greenwood Ave.)
Art classes, exhibitions, and community events at Hyde Park Art Center (5020 S. Cornell)
Gargoyle on My Shoulder exhibition about famous gargoyles in history at theat Rockefeller Chapel (8AM-5PM, 1156 East 59th St.)
Ice skating on the Midway Plaisance Park Outdoor Ice Rink. Admission is free, skate rentals are $5. Hot chocolate and concessions available (12AM-7PM, east 59th Street at Woodlawn).
Pioneers to the Past: American Archaeologists in the Middle East, 1919-1920, an exhibition of never-before-seen artifacts from archeologists' post WWI tours of Egypt and Mesopotamia at at the Oriental Institute ($7 suggested donation, 1155 E. 58th)
Twice daily carillon recital at Rockefeller Chapel and then take a free guided tour. Then climb the chapel's 271 steps to get an amazing view of the city. (11:30 AM and 5:30PM, 1156 East 59th Street)
Doc Films, cheap quirky/artsy flicks during the week and 2nd run mainstream movies on the weekend ($5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Talking to Hyde Park Locals- Alex H.

2010-02-19T12:44:00.006-06:00

This week's featured Hyde Park local is Alex Hartzler, a 25 year old law student. Here's his take on the hood:

About how old are you? What's your occupation? Feel free to be as vague or specific as you want...
I'm 25. Student: formerly, presently, and sorta wish always.

How long have you lived in Hyde Park? What brought you to the neighborhood and/or what keeps you here?
Six short months. I moved here in August to go to law school at U of C. I'll be here for the next two and a half years, no question.

How would you describe Hyde Park to someone who isn't familiar with it?
Hyde Park is a neighborhood centered around the University of Chicago but with a culture and feel of its own apart from the university. Lots of ethnic diversity; beautiful, tree-lined streets; and the home of the President of the United States.

You have friends visiting for the weekend-- What do you make sure to show them in the neighborhood?
1) The U of C quad is gorgeous; that's a must-see because it looks exactly like what you picture when you imagine college. 2) The ice rink on the Midway is really cute, too. 3) Seminary Co-Op Bookstore is a place everyone should get lost once.

What is your favorite restaurant and/or business in the area? What about it do you like? What do you recommend there?
Falcon Inn!!!!!! What a bar. Ray always has an ice-cold mug waiting for you. Always a great night soaring at the Falcon [1601 East 53rd Street].

How do you feel about the Harper Court development project and community re-development in general? How do you feel it will impact the neighborhood? What type of development would you like to see, if any?
I live around that intersection. Which part is being redeveloped? The vacant "Obviously Used To Be A Hollywood Video" building is depressing, so if they're gonna put something there, great.

What do you think the neighborhood is missing (if anything)? What do you see as the barriers to Hyde Park having this?
It'd be cool if there was some sort of grungy, underground theatre that would bring in hipsters and artists, like how people trek in from all over the place to see the Neo-Futurists in Andersonville.

Overall, how do you feel about the neighborhood?
Love it. What a genuine place.

Bonus Question: Feel free to talk about any neighborhood-related issues or topics that I haven't touched on, suggest a question to be included in future interviews, and/or plug your own website or a cause you're passionate about.
Many law students complain about public transportation to Hyde Park. Conceding that it would of course be nice for an El line to run through it, like where the Metra is, I really think the complaints are excessive. The #6 is a breeze, and I often take the Garfield bus to the Green or Red lines. But I'm interested in public transportation issues and I'd love to see other people's thoughts on the matter.

__________________________

Have thoughts about Alex's question about public transportation in Hyde Park, or about any other parts of the Q&A? Leave a comment! I don't bite-- promise.

If you'd like to share your views on Hyde Park and/or want the chance to plug your local business or website, click here to complete my online interview. (Note that while I post virtually all survey responses, there may be a 2-3 week lag before yours shows up on the website.)

Time Out Chicago wants to know: What's the matter with Hyde Park

2010-02-17T21:25:00.007-06:00

Weekly events and culture magazine Time Out Chicago (TOC) generally focuses on providing lists of fun things to see and do in the city, and--in my experience--seems to stay away from local politics. I've been a big fan for a while because they acknowledge that the city extends beyond the loop and Lincoln Park, and often promote Hyde Park spots and events (like Hyde Park Art Center's Cocktails and Clay).

Seemingly inspired by the recent unveiling of the Harper Court redevelopment plans, this week's cover of TOC reads (all in huge, bold caps),"What's the matter with Hyde Park?" When I first saw this headline, I was a little peeved, thinking something along the lines of "Just what Hyde Park needs, some hot-shot local publication telling the world about all of its deficiencies!" Once you get past the strange, negatively-spun headline, there are actually some really great articles about the neighborhood. As I read it, the central focus of TOC's Hyde park issue (which you can check out here) is finding out what Hyde Park locals want and need, attempting to identify the barriers to the neighborhood having these things, and then demonstrating that these so-called barriers are based on misinformation and misunderstandings about Hyde Park. Writer John Slania notes:

[Hyde Park] sits on prime lakeside real estate and boasts gorgeous historic architecture. Hyde Park has all the trappings of a commercial star, so why is it a veritable retail and entertainment wasteland?

Later, he provides statistics demonstrating that Hyde Park-Kenwood is an exceptionally large community (50,000+14,000 students and 12,000 University staff-members), with a relatively high average household income ($62,500, comparable to Lakeview) and low crime rate (it's the 6th safest neighborhood in the entire city). He goes on to talk to locals about things they feel Hyde Park needs (answers include "somewhere to buy cute girl stuff," "a Trader Joe's, a "bigger variety of restaurants").

In an accompanying piece, writer Jake Malooley goes around and talks to owners and developers of local and national chains asking why they won't set up shop in Hyde Park. Again and again, he is told that the the owners have never even considered moving to the neighborhood, don't want to "pioneer" development in new parts of the city, and don't feel that Hyde Park has the spending power to support their businesses. When Malooley attempts to argue against their assertions by providing data, the owners eventually confess that they actually know very little about the neighborhood or, in the case of the Trader Joe's representative, that she doesn't really know where Hyde Park even is.

In another sideline, Bren DiCrescenzo provides a side-by-side comparison of Hyde Park to Evanston, which is further from the city center yet has historically been more successful in attracting commerce. The most surprising/interesting stats are:

Total Crimes Reported in 2008
Evanston: 24.4 per capita, Hyde Park:24.3 per capita

Violent Crimes Incidents in 2008
Evanston: 299, Hyde Park: 236

Median Family Income (2010 Projection)
Evanston: $105,318 Hyde Park: $119,565

Finally, Liz Plosser provides a good list of what is lovable about Hyde Park. Her top picks include the lake path, Promontory Point, the many local museums, and great specialty grocer Z&H.

What I found most enlightening and troubling about the TOC articles is their portrayal of just how little the general public and investors know about Hyde Park. The writers--and it's not clear how intimately they know Hyde Park-- seem to believe that the Harper Court redevelopment project could transform the community and resolve the issues outlined above.
I think that planned development in the community is, in theory, a great thing and has transformative potential. BUT, I worry that this type of progress won't be sustainable if the rest of the city doesn't know or care about Hyde Park. Moderately dense North-side communities like Andersonville and Lincoln Square don't thrive solely on locals, but on folks who drive in from a few miles away to visit. For the development to be successful, Hyde Park needs to essentially become a destination neighborhood, and that might take some work.

The Harper Court redevelopment project represents a sort of chicken-or-the-egg conundrum. The type of large-scale planned commercial development proposed has the potential to bring new vibrancy to the community. On the other hand, new commercial development will not thrive unless there is enough buzz about the neighborhood to make non-locals care. Bottom line, Hyde Park needs some good PR and marketing. The TOC issue is a great start. Right on par with what I try to do in this blog, the writers boost the community and write about what makes it special, while still thinking critically about the broader economic and social issues that come into play. They depict Hyde Park as a virtually-untapped market full of desirable real estate and affluent locals eager to spend their dough on upscale food and retail. They make a pretty convincing argument for why Hyde Park is a great place to open up shop. They tell you what's already great about the neighborhood, and where there is potential for growth. If I were an investor, I'd be sold. I'm just hoping that those with investing power see this piece and maybe give the community a second look.

This Weekend in Hyde Park (2/12-2/14)

2010-02-12T11:03:00.003-06:00

It's a busy weekend in Hyde Park, especially if you enjoy art openings and live music! Here's what's going on:

Friday (2/12)

“Principles in Motion” art exhibition and reception, hosted by University of Chicago Office of Technology and Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center (5PM-7PM, free and open to the public, 6030 S. Ellis Ave., advanced registration recommended)
Cocktails and Clay (enjoy drinks+dancing+cocktails while you play w/clay!) at the Hyde Part Art Center (8PM-midnight, $15 recommended donation, 5020 S. Cornell)
Live folk, Zydeco, blues from around the country at the 50th Annual University of Chicago Folk Festival (begins at 8PM, see here for ticket info, Mandel Hall 1131 E. 57th St.)
Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-2AM, 5201 S. Harper). [Note--this is not particularly affordable, but it's a Chicago institution & worth checking out at least once]
Jazz musician Hassan Kahn live at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)

Saturday (2/13)

The Art of Heart, family Valentine's Day Celebration and open house at Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center, (11:00 AM-3:00 PM, free, 1060 E. 47th St.)
smArtkids, free story telling and arts and crafts workshop hosted by the Smart Museum at Bessie Coleman Library (10Am-12PM & 2PM-4PM, free, 731 E. 63rd)
Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge (8PM-3AM, $10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 5201 S. Harper)
Live folk, Zydeco, blues from around the country at the 50th Annual University of Chicago Folk Festival (begins at 7:30PM, see here for ticket info, Mandel Hall 1131 E. 57th St.)
The Usual Mistakes live at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)
Sugar and Chocolate spoken word poetry event hosted by the Organization of Black Students (8pm-10PM,Reynolds Club McCormick Lounge, 5706 S. University, contact atalley@uchicago.edu for details)

Sunday (2/14)

Yoko Noge live at Chant's Valentine's Day Brunch (11PM-3PM, 1509 E. 53rd)
Second Sunday, free family activities and performances at Hyde Part Art Center (1PM-4PM, free, 5020 S. Cornell)
Exhibitions Reception--enjoy light refreshments and opening of 6 new art exhibits-- at Hyde Park Art Center (3PM-5PM, free, 5020 S.Cornell)
Live folk, Zydeco, blues from around the country at the 50th Annual University of Chicago Folk Festival (begins at 6PM, see here for ticket info, Mandel Hall 1131 E. 57th St.)

Ongoing

The Year of Magical Thinking at Court Theater (5535 S. Ellis).
Semi-autobiographical solo exhibition of photographs by Chicago-based artist Anna Shteynshleyger at the Renaissance Society (5811 S. Ellis Avenue, 773.702.8670)
Gargoyle on My Shoulder exhibition about famous gargoyles in history at theat Rockefeller Chapel (8AM-5PM, 1156 East 59th St.)
Ice skating on the Midway Plaisance Park Outdoor Ice Rink. Admission is free, skate rentals are $5. Hot chocolate and concessions available (12AM-7PM, east 59th Street at Woodlawn).
Pioneers to the Past: American Archaeologists in the Middle East, 1919-1920, an exhibition of never-before-seen artifacts from archeologists' post WWI tours of Egypt and Mesopotamia at at the Oriental Institute ($7 suggested donation, 1155 E. 58th)
Twice daily carillon recital at Rockefeller Chapel and then take a free guided tour. Then climb the chapel's 271 steps to get an amazing view of the city. (11:30 AM and 5:30PM, 1156 East 59th Street)
Doc Films, cheap quirky/artsy flicks during the week and 2nd run mainstream movies on the weekend ($5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Talking to Hyde Park Locals- Richard

2010-02-10T10:14:00.004-06:00

This week's featured Hyde Park local is Richard, owner of a computer software development and training company. Here are his thoughts on the neighborhood:

How long have you lived in Hyde Park? What brought you to the neighborhood and/or what keeps you here?
15 years-- I moved here from NYC. My former mother in law lived in Regents Park, and I really liked it on visits.

How would you describe Hyde Park to someone who isn't familiar with it?
A little rumpled, bookish, left of center. Not pretentious or obvious.

You have friends visiting for the weekend-- What do you make sure to show them in the neighborhood?
Museum of Science and Industry, Oriental Institute

What is your favorite restaurant and/or business in the area? What about it do you like? What do you recommend there?
Valois (recommend breakfast and chicken pot pie), The Cove, Woodlawn Tap, Istria Cafe in the Hyde Park Art Center

How do you feel about the Harper Court development project and community re-development in general? How do you feel it will impact the neighborhood? What type of development would you like to see, if any?
Not enthused. Chicago already has a Lincoln Park, [we] don't need another.

What do you think the neighborhood is missing (if anything)? What do you see as the barriers to Hyde Park having this?
Good transit, bars, restaurants... I wish we had a hangout again, like Chances R, with the peanuts on the floor.

Overall, how do you feel about the neighborhood?
Good, but not as great as could be.

Bonus Question: Feel free to talk about any neighborhood-related issues or topics that I haven't touched on, suggest a question to be included in future interviews, and/or plug your own website or a cause you're passionate about.
I am passionate about pedestrian safety and public transit. My website is www.hydeparksystems.com

Thanks to Richard for taking the time to complete the Q&A. If you're interested in being featured on the blog (and/or would like the opportunity to plug your business/website...), click here to complete my online interview.

Harper Court Redevelopment Presentation-Fast Facts

2010-02-08T22:53:00.006-06:00

Hey folks! I just got back from the Harper Court Redevelopment Presentation and wanted to give you all the rundown. I'm going to write more about my reactions, concerns, and hopes for the project in a later post, but here are some quick facts about the plan:

Essentially everything between Lake Park and Harper, 53rd and 52nd is to be razed and rebuilt. This will include the current sites of Park 52, Calypso Cafe, The Checkerboard Lounge, and several small businesses, not to mention the already defunct Dixie Kitchen. For now, the old movie theater building will not be re-developed.

Vermillion Development, the firm selected for the project, is known for its experience in "large-scale, mixed use university-related projects," including UIC's south campus and developments at University of Illinois Champagne-Urbana and Indiana State University

The first phase of building is slated to begin in 2011 and will include: 1) a 12-story office building intended to mirror the Hyde Park Bank building in size and stature, 2) 150,000 sq. feet of retail space (potentially including restaurants, bars, a live music venue, a cinema, and both national chain and small local shops) 3) a large "pedestrian environment" with green space, art, and water 4) a "mix of structured and street parking", 5) a 200 room, 12-15 story boutique hotel

A later phase of development will take place "subject to market," i.e. when the real estate market rebounds. This phase will include construction of two high-rise mixed-income housing structures including condos, apartments, and affordable housing

Based on the plans presented at the meeting, the new structures will be predominantly glass and hyper-modern in design, with a focus on sustainability and green-living standards

My twitter buddy Trish Morse (@hydeparktrish) has posted most of the meeting materials to her website, which you can check out here. Fellow Hyde Park blogger Hyde Park Urbanist also has a detailed post on the meeting here that I recommend taking a look at.

In a few words, I am both excited and concerned about what this plan means for the Hyde Park. It is on a way larger scale than I was hoping and feels a bit sterile -- looks like the developments in downtown Oak Park and Evanston. At the same time, the prospect of more dining options, bars, and live music is pretty cool-- especially because it will also mean new jobs in the community. I just hope we don't lose Hyde Park institutions like Calypso Cafe in exchange for gaining a Buffalo Wild Wings or somethng of that ilk.... More thoughts to come.

What do you all think so far?

Favorite Things in Hyde Park: Open Produce

2010-02-07T11:14:00.006-06:00

It's been a while since I've done a favorite things post, so here goes.... (As you guys may have noticed, I'm a pretty hardcore foodie, so forgive me if my favorites tend to all be food centric...)

Today's featured spot is Open Produce (1635 E. 56th), an itty-bitty, but amazingly well-stocked, grocer selling fresh produce, prepared foods, and kitchen staples in east Hyde Park. While western and central Hyde Park are already well served by Treasure Island and Hyde Park Produce (which I've featured here as well), Open Produce is the only grocer east of the train tracks and is unique in that it is open super late (until about midnight).

If you weren't looking for it, the shop would be easy to miss if not for the carts of fresh colorful fruit that are often parked out front. The storefront is about the size of a walk-in closet, but it is full of copious amounts of both standard and exotic fresh produce (think heirloom tomatoes, tomatillos, leeks, poblano peppers, you name it). In addition to milk, eggs, and butter, they carry hard-to-find ethnic and vegan staples and ready-made curries, soups, and European snack foods (I especially love the dutch "stroop waffles"!). On top of that, they stock prepared foods from from local restaurants and even fruits and veggies from customers' home gardens.

The store has an interesting history and philosophy, which was featured recently on Gaper's Block. As the article highlights, the shop was opened by two U of C grads who set out to apply their economics backgrounds to running an ethical, transparent, and socially conscious business, hence the name Open Produce. One of the owners, Steven Lucy explains in the article:

"I get a lot of positive feedback from people in the community. I wish there were more small stores, like in Pilsen, on Devon, or in New York City. That's the kind of neighborhood I want to live in, so I've made my neighborhood like it.The way to make positive social change is through entrepreneurship. A lot of people in college want to help out [and go abroad to do so], and that's great. I want to fix where I live. It's what I know, and I have the right to muck around in it. I'd rather make practical changes in a place where I live instead of make some far reaching effort to fix something else."

In Chicago, we have all gotten used to shopping at big chain grocery stores and stocking up on weeks' worth of food that will likely sit in a drawer in our fridge for a long time before we use it. Grocery shopping is something we often have to plan in advance and allot a big chunk of time for. Open Produce, though, is more the kind of spot where you can stop in quickly after work, grab whatever produce looks fresh, perhaps chat with the staff, and then throw together a fresh healthy meal for a few bucks. In my opinion, this is a more affordable, healthier, and efficient way to shop and eat. Stores like this were the norm 50 years ago and still exist in New York and abroad, but they are few and far between in Chicago. Not a lot of neighborhoods in the city have anything like Open Produce, and I think it's pretty cool that we do.

Who/What is Ms. Hyde Park (New & Improved)

2010-02-05T13:07:00.006-06:00

I was just looking through the blog and realized that my About Me /Who & What is Hyde Park link at the top of the page was broken. Upon further investigation, I discovered that my blog post of the same name--my very first post to the site--was missing too! I know it was visible at one point, but I have no idea how long it has been MIA. I set out to just re-post the original but, in the process, couldn't help myself from making some edits and additions. So, for those of you who may have missed it the first time around, here is my (new and improved) introductory post:

-------------

Who is Ms. Hyde Park?

I'm a young professional, born and raised in Chicago. I grew up mostly on the north side, but have been a Hyde Parker for about 8 years. I've lived, worked, and gone to school all over the city from Rogers Park to Uptown to Lincoln Square to Humbolt Park to Austin, and have spent time pretty much everywhere else in Chicago. I deeply love this city and many of its neighborhoods, but Hyde Park is my favorite. Why? Well that's largely what this blog will be about but, in a nutshell, I love that Hyde Park is diverse and multicultural, that it is jam-packed with art, culture, and affordable food, that it is very walkable (i.e. you can easily get to great parks, the lake, dining, nightlife, and shopping by foot) and that it somehow manages to feel like a small-town and the big city at the same time.

OK, but why the Ms. Hyde Park blog?

I think a lot of people misunderstand and/or under-appreciate Hyde Park because they just don't know enough about it or haven't had the right person show them around. I'd like for this blog to serve as a sort of guide or reference for people who are visiting Hyde Park either from within Chicago or across the country, as well as a place for locals to discuss community issues and to find and share recommendations about what to eat, see, and do in the neighborhood and nearby. My hope is that this will be a blog about what makes Hyde Park such a wonderful, unique community, and what can make it even better.

I have to confess-- my motives for wanting to help others love Hyde Park are just a little bit selfish. You see, I've noticed that good businesses and restaurants in the area often struggle more than they should because locals are cynical and outsiders simply don't bother coming into the neighborhood to give these spots a chance. This lack of engagement with the community has been a barrier to great existing businesses becoming as successful as they could, and to new businesses coming to the area. I'm in favor of organic, grassroots-driven growth and development in Hyde Park and I think that this happens when people get excited about what the neighborhood has to offer. My basic philosophy is that the more energy, enthusiasm, and interest in Hyde Park we can generate, the more we can help the neighborhood, its businesses, and its locals to thrive.

So, with all of this said, welcome to my blog! Please feel free to comment or email me at MsHydePark@gmail.com to let me know what you think so far, to ask questions about the blog or the community, or just to say hi.

Things to do this Week(end)

2010-02-04T16:12:00.009-06:00

Check out my (a bit belated....) weekly list of fun things to do in the neighborhood this week. As always, if you know of any events and activities in, near, or relating to Hyde Park this week that are not on the list, let me know!

Ongoing

The Year of Magical Thinking at Court Theater (5535 S. Ellis).
Semi-autobiographical solo exhibition of photographs by Chicago-based artist Anna Shteynshleyger at the Renaissance Society (5811 S. Ellis Avenue, 773.702.8670)
Gargoyle on My Shoulder exhibition about famous gargoyles in history at theat Rockefeller Chapel (8AM-5PM, 1156 East 59th St.)
Ice skating on the Midway Plaisance Park Outdoor Ice Rink. Admission is free, skate rentals are $5. Hot chocolate and concessions available (12AM-7PM, east 59th Street at Woodlawn).
Pioneers to the Past: American Archaeologists in the Middle East, 1919-1920, an exhibition of never-before-seen artifacts from archeologists' post WWI tours of Egypt and Mesopotamia at at the Oriental Institute ($7 suggested donation, 1155 E. 58th)
Twice daily carillon recital at Rockefeller Chapel and then take a free guided tour. Then climb the chapel's 271 steps to get an amazing view of the city. (11:30 AM and 5:30PM, 1156 East 59th Street)
Doc Films, cheap quirky/artsy flicks during the week and 2nd run mainstream movies on the weekend ($5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Thursday

Doc Films: Rio Grande (1950). (7PM, $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Friday

Spike Jonze's Where the Wild Things Are (2009) Doc Films. (6:45PM, 9PM, 11:15PM, $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)
Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-2AM, 5201 S. Harper). [Note--this is not particularly affordable, but it's a Chicago institution & worth checking out at least once]
Sarah Marie Young live at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)

Saturday

Printmaking Workshop & Artist Talk w/ Jonathan Green at Little Black Pearl, (12:30 PM, free, 1060 E. 47th St.) [Thanks to @hydeparktrish for the tip!]
Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge (8PM-3AM, $10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 5201 S. Harper)
DJ Born live at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)
The Informant! (2009) at Doc Films. (7PM & 9:15PM, $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Sunday

Superbowl party at Park 52 (kick-off at 4PM, no cover charge but reservations required, 5201 S. Harper. Email dawn@park52chicago.com to reserve a spot,)
Peter Lerner live at Chant's Sunday Brunch (12PM-3PM, 1509 E. 53rd)
Where the Wild Things Are (2009) Doc Films. (1PM, $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)
The Informant! (2009) at Doc Films. (3:30PM, $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

New Feature: Talking to Hyde Park Locals

2010-02-04T11:10:00.008-06:00

I have a lot to say about the Hyde Park neighborhood, but I know that many of you do too. Hyde Park locals come in all different shapes and sizes and I would like for this blog to reflect as many different perspectives on the community as possible. With that said, I'm launching a new feature on Ms. Hyde Park in which I'll interview locals about how they feel about their community. Interested in sharing your thoughts? Fill out my survey here.

Today, my featured local is Alexco, a 28 year old supply chain analyst. Here's what he has to say about the neighborhood:

How long have you lived in Hyde Park? What brought you to the neighborhood and/or what keeps you here?
I have lived in Hyde Park for 1.8 years. My wife is a resident physician at U of C.

How would you describe Hyde Park to someone who isn't familiar with it?
I would describe the history involving the University and the people who have lived here. Definitely would highlight the diversity, culture, old world charm that Hyde Park can show people.

You have friends visiting for the weekend-- What do you make sure to show them in the neighborhood?
I would take them to Promontory Point, the Obama house, Frank Loyd Wright home, the University campus, Museum of Science and Industry, and Medici.

What is your favorite restaurant and/or business in the area? What about it do you like? What do you recommend there?
The Sit Down, The Snail, Park 52, Parkers Pets, Kimbark Liqueur store, and Hyde Park Produce.

How do you feel about the Harper Court development project and community re-development in general? How do you feel it will impact the neighborhood? What type of development would you like to see, if any?
Actually don't know too much about what the plans are for the redevelopment. If it creates jobs and attracts more people to local businesses while keeping/creating Hyde Park charm, then I'm probably glad to see it go forward.

What do you think the neighborhood is missing (if anything)? What do you see as the barriers to Hyde Park having this?
I think the neighborhood could use a more modern sports bar, more art galleries, more placesfor live music.

Overall, how do you feel about the neighborhood?
Overall I really like Hyde Park. I don't think it's a complete package or has some of the hipness that other neighborhoods have, but it is a very interesting and fun place to live.

Bonus Question: Feel free to talk about any neighborhood-related issues or topics that I haven't touched on, suggest a question to be included in future interviews, and/or plug your own website or a cause you're passionate about.
I think it's always good to have discussion about safety and what the neighborhood can do to look out for one another and prevent crime.

On O'Reilly and Why He's Wrong about the South Side of Chicago

2010-01-29T11:20:00.010-06:00

The always subtle, considerate, and well-informed Bill O'Reilly recently made some pretty offensive comments about the south side of Chicago and Haiti. I'm sure most of you have heard about this already, but check out this Huffington Post article, as well as ChicagoNow's Kyra Kyles's post for more details. In a nutshell, O'Reilly stated that the south side, like Haiti, is a disaster area that cannot be saved, no matter how much money you pump into it.

First off, O'Reilly is an idiot and I absolutely think he gets paid to make people angry because that's what generates attention.

That being said, his comment really struck a nerve for me. On the one hand, I can chalk the statement up to ignorance-- he's not from Chicago and, from what I've read, hasn't spent any prolonged time here. What's more upsetting to me is that he is evoking and popularizing a misconception that is already held by many native Chicagoans. I was born and raised on the north side, and lived and went to school in some areas that weren't so hot, yet many friends and family from the old hood act worried, or at least uncomfortable, when they have to pass Roosevelt to come visit me in Hyde Park.

I recently had a friend (who grew up in the Chicago area) come to my place for the first time. The first thing out of his mouth was, "Wow, I was always scared to try to find street parking by the museum [of Science and Industry]. Who knew it was nice around here?!" Later in the night, I overhead him comment to his girlfriend that maybe they should put the south side on their radar when they start looking for a place to buy. This guy has lived in the city for 27 years, had been to the museum countless times, and yet had never ventured off the campus to the surrounding neighborhood. Once he was pushed to actually set foot in a south side community, though, he actually liked it.

I think a big part of the problem is that the media seems to talk about the north side as a collection of distinct neighborhoods, but treats the south side as a homogeneous community. If a crime takes place in Uptown for example, the media and Chicagoans in general are probably not going to generalize that Lakeview or Lincoln Park are also unsafe. If a crime happens in Englewood, though, people interpret that as meaning Hyde Park, Bronzeville, Beverly, Chatham, etc. are unsafe too.

That is not to say that many south side communities are not struggling. There's no doubt about the fact that there are several south side neighborhoods that have major problems with crime. At the same time, I think few people realize that there are about as many south side neighborhoods in the green (i.e. low crime) range as there are north side neighborhoods in this range. (The south side has more high-crime areas, but it's also twice as big as the north-side.) I'd also like to point out that the downtown area and hip west-loop have higher crime rates than many parts of the south side.

If Chicagoans from all sides of the city can support these healthy south side communities by frequenting existing businesses and investing in new commerce, then I think that this revitalization will spread to some of the red and orange areas. And please don't get me wrong, I'm not encouraging a yuppy invasion or neighborhood flipping, I'm just saying that if you're a northsider willing to come to the Loop to check out a new restaurant, I see no reason why you should be afraid of safe-as-the-Gold Coast Hyde Park.

Ok, I'm done with my rant/lecture. Thanks for your patience. :-)

This week in Hyde Park....Week of 1/24

2010-01-25T21:35:00.008-06:00

Here's your weekly list of fun things to do this week in Hyde Park:

Ongoing

Attend The Year of Magical Thinking at Court Theater (5535 S. Ellis).
Visit the semi-autobiographical solo exhibition of photographs by Chicago-based artist Anna Shteynshleyger at the Renaissance Society (5811 S. Ellis Avenue, 773.702.8670)
Learn all about famous gargoyles at the Gargoyle on My Shoulder exhibition at Rockefeller Chapel (8AM-5PM, 1156 East 59th St.)
Bundle up and come skating on the Midway Plaisance Park Outdoor Ice Rink. Admission is free, skate rentals are $5. Hot chocolate and concessions available (12AM-7PM, east 59th Street at Woodlawn).
View never-before-seen artifacts from archeologists' post WWI tours of Egypt and Mesopotamia at Pioneers to the Past: American Archaeologists in the Middle East, 1919-1920 at the Oriental Institute ($7 suggested donation, 1155 E. 58th)
Check out the twice daily carillon recital at Rockefeller Chapel and then take a free guided tour. Then climb the chapel's 271 steps to get an amazing view of the city. (11:30 AM and 5:30PM, 1156 East 59th Street)
Catch super cheap quirky/artsy flicks during the week and 2nd run mainstream movies on the weekend at Doc Films. ($5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Monday

Watch "creepy and atmospheric thriller" Seance on a Wet Afternoon (1964) at Doc Films. (7PM $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Tuesday

Drop in for an hour-long restorative yoga class in beautiful Rockefeller Chapel. Free for students, $5 recommended donation for everyone else (6:45 pm - 7:45PM, 1156 East 59th Street)
Stop in for Poetry Slam night at Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 7:30PM-"until", 5201 S. Harper).

Wednesday

Catch sci-fi flick The Fly (1986) at Doc Films. (7PM & 9PM $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)
Live music (and yummy traditional Italian fare) Wednesdays at Piccolo Mondo (7-11PM, 1642 E.56th Street 773.643.1106 / 9171)
Learn and practice Zen meditation at Rockefeller Chapel. (5:00 pm - 6:45PM, 1156 East 59th Street)

Thursday

Catch She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949) at Doc Films. (7PM $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Friday

Catch the Coen's brother's A Serious Man (2009) at Doc Films. (6:45PM, $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)
Hear live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-2AM, 5201 S. Harper). [Note--this is not particularly affordable, but it's a Chicago institution & worth checking out at least once]
Drop in for drinks and live music at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)

Saturday

Hear live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-3AM, 5201 S. Harper)
Drop in for drinks, appetizers, and live music at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)
Watch post-apocalyptic film The Road (2009) at Doc Films. (7PM & 9:30PM, $5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Sunday

Enjoy all-you-can-eat Asian-inspired brunch while you listen to live jazz at Chant's Sunday Brunch (starting at 11AM, 1509 E. 53rd)

If you know of something going on in the neighborhood that's not on the list, leave a comment or drop me a line at Mshydepark@gmail.com.

[And FYI, I just changed the comment settings on the blog, so now you can leave a comment w/out having to be signed into a google account. Would love to hear from you!]

New in Hyde Park: The Big Easy-- Not Just Another Orly's

2010-01-24T14:05:00.011-06:00

Since last fall, other Hyde Park locals and I had been closely monitoring the storefront at 55th and Hyde Park Boulevard, looking for signs of activity. Finally, about a month ago, a new awning appeared and the walls were painted (yes, I stuck my face against the glass to peek in..). A week later, a sign appears in the window advertising microbrews and Cajun fare. A week after that, lights were on and people could be seen inside eating & drinking, but it did not appear that the place had been opened to the public. It's not everyday that we get a new business or restaurant in the neighborhood, so the suspense was killing us. Finally, about 2 weeks ago, the spot finally opened officially for business under the name "The Big Easy" and Mr. Hyde Park and I rushed in to check it out.

If you're in a hurry, long story short, the food was generally very good Cajun fare reminiscent of Dixie Kitchen, the service was fine (but not great), and the place is definitely worth visiting. Check out the menu here. If you have a little longer, stick around for some history and a more detailed review:

First, the history... 1660 E 55th Street is famous (or perhaps infamous) among Hyde Parkers for its quirky history. The spot was originally purchased by David Shopiro in 1981 and, in the years since, saw several "makeovers" under his ownership. The restaurant and catering company was usually called Orly's, or most recently Hyde Park BBQ, and, in each incarnation, served up an eclectic mix of BBQ, sandwiches, Mexican and Italian cuisine, burgers, and baked goods (yes, all on the same menu). The restaurant (whatever the name) was often criticized for serving mediocre food, for having too broad a menu, and for having so-so service. While some Hyde Park locals had a strange affection for the place, most Hyde Parkers--myself included-- were just lukewarm to it, and it was never particularly successful. (And it was certainly never a place to which anyone from outside of Hyde Park would travel.) Each time the going got tough, Shopiro would announce that he was going to make the place over and then quickly re-open with essentially the same menu and decor. For this reason, Orly's became a sort of running joke in the neighborhood and fueled the negative stereotype that restaurants in Hyde Park don't have their acts together.

This summer, Shopiro announced another remodel of the place, closed its doors, and placed an ad on Craigslist seeking someone to become 90% owner of the spot and take creative control of the menu. (Fellow Hyde Park blogger Hyde Park Progress has a good post about this which provides more details--check it out here.) After this announcement, the neighborhood had little news for several months.

Finally, this winter, we learned that Shopiro had chosen 26 year-old Jennifer Gavin for the job.
Shopiro didn't seem to publicize this as much as he could have, but not only does Gavin have classical and international training, but she was one of the last chefs standing on celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey's reality tv-show Hell's Kitchen. It's not clear, however, whether Gavin has become 90% owner as Shopiro had sought in the Craigslist ad, or if they have worked out some other arrangement. In any case, it seems that Shopiro is maintaining more involvement in the restaurant than he had initially stated he would.

Ok, so now--finally-- back to my review. Mr. Hyde Park and I had dinner there at 8:30ish on their official opening night (they'd had a soft opening earlier in the month). The interior had been upgraded and looked good, although still had some undefinable hints of the 80s. We were greeted by the same goofy, absent-minded waiter who has been there the past 10 years (which concerned us a bit, to be honest). He promptly seated us and bumbled through the Cajun-Creole menu, making mistakes like calling jambalaya "gumboyaya." We ordered a seafood chowder and the gumbo to start-- both were very flavorful and rich. For the main course, my husband had the crawfish etouffee which was solid and fresh. He really liked it and said it was definitely as good as what they served at the well-loved, now defunct Hyde Park Dixie Kitchen, although it wasn't mind-blowing (I think he may have just had food-envy because what I got was better...). I ordered the Shrimp and Grits, which was by far the star of the show. They were DELICIOUS-- the grits were rich, cheesy, and not at all mushy. The shrimp were huge, fresh, and flavorful and they were smothered with a decadent apple-bacon sauce..... It just does not get better than that. We finished the meal with a plate of yummy bite-sized desserts-- including carrot cake, a peach cobbler brownie, and a New Orlean's-style beignet-- that they gave us on-the-house.

Overall, there are definitely some little glitches that will need to be worked out-- we waited too long for drinks, the waiter was pretty absent-minded, the decor still leaves something to be desired-- but I think Gavin knows how to make some delicious food, and that's what's most important. My biggest fear, though, is that the place won't be given the chance to come into its own. Many Hyde Parkers, especially the folks over at Hyde Park Progress, are pretty cynical about the Big Easy because of Orly's history and so they are essentially boycotting the restaurant. I'm not a fan of Shopiro's previous projects, either, and was disappointed to learn that he is still pretty heavily involved in the place. I think Gavin probably could make a better restaurant without him if not for his financial input, but I'm hopeful that she'll have the chance to prove her culinary chops and that her talent and youthfulness will give new life to the space. So, with all of this said, I urge you to check the place out, to approach it with an open mind, and to order the shrimp and grits.

What does "development" mean for Hyde Park?

2010-01-20T22:51:00.006-06:00

Harper Court pre-demolition....

Courtesy of: http://www.flickr.com/photos/reallyboring/ / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

I posted a few days ago about the "redevelopment" project that is set to begin in the Harper Court space later this year. In a nutshell, the University of Chicago has purchased the complex and has hired the Vermillion Development firm (known for its experience with "university town" development projects) to raze the existing buildings and replace them with something shiny and new. I, unfortunately, am not privy to any of the specifics of the plan, but rumor has it that there will be a "tower" including a hotel and gym, possibly a cinema, and lots of commercial space.

Anyway, now that I know that the whispers of "development" in Hyde Park are becoming a reality, I'm sort of feeling uneasy. I'm going to be totally honest-- when I first moved to the neighborhood, I whined and complained to anyone who would listen about how Hyde Park would be perfect if only we had this-that-or-the-other yuppy amenity-- e.g. a place to get microbrews, a tapas spot, trendy sushi, and a non-strip-mall shopping complex with national and higher-end shops. With time, though, I've begun to develop a more nuanced perspective. On the one hand, I think having these things nearby would be great. On the other, though, I worry that too much development--particularly University-driven development-- runs the risk of fundamentally changing the character of the neighborhood and robbing Hyde Park of its distinctive quaintness and authenticity. If Hyde Park starts to look like downtown Champaign-Urbana or Ann Arbor, will it still be the Hyde Park I love?

What this all comes down to is that Hyde Park is not and (hopefully) never will be a college town in the traditional sense. Yes, it is the home to a world-class university and to thousands of students from all around the world, but it is also an economically and culturally diverse urban community within a huge metropolis. I get that the university wants its students to have access to cool places to hang out, drink, and shop, but I hope that the development project will also address and respect the needs and preferences of non-University Hyde Park-ers and Southsiders in general.

Things to do this week in Hyde Park! (Week of 1/17)

2010-01-17T15:38:00.004-06:00

Ongoing

Visit the semi-autobiographical solo exhibition of photographs by Chicago-based artist Anna Shteynshleyger at the Renaissance Society (5811 S. Ellis Avenue, 773.702.8670)
Learn all about famous gargoyles at the Gargoyle on My Shoulder exhibition at Rockefeller Chapel (8AM-5PM, 1156 East 59th St.)
Bundle up and come skating on the Midway Plaisance Park Outdoor Ice Rink. Admission is free, skate rentals are $5. Hot chocolate and concessions available (12AM-7PM, east 59th Street at Woodlawn).
View never-before-seen artifacts from archeologists' post WWI tours of Egypt and Mesopotamia at Pioneers to the Past: American Archaeologists in the Middle East, 1919-1920 at the Oriental Institute ($7 suggested donation, 1155 E. 58th)
Check out the twice daily carillon recital at Rockefeller Chapel and then take a free guided tour. Then climb the chapel's 271 steps to get an amazing view of the city. (11:30 AM and 5:30PM, 1156 East 59th Street)
Catch super cheap quirky/artsy flicks during the week and 2nd run mainstream movies on the weekend at Doc Films. ($5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Sunday

Attend the free Concert: Global Voices Performing Arts Series: Music of Turkey (6PM-9PM, International House, 1414 East 59th Street)

Monday

Take in theatrical performances, story-telling, films, and other MLK tributes at the DuSable Museum's all day Martin Luther King Day Celebration (Adults $8/Children $5, 10AM-6PM, 740 E. 56th)

Tuesday

Take an hour-long restorative yoga class in beautiful Rockefeller Chapel. Free for students, $5 recommended donation for everyone else (6:45 pm - 7:45PM, 1156 East 59th Street)

Wednesday

Live music (and delicious traditional Italian fare) Wednesdays at Piccolo Mondo (7-11PM, 1642 E.56th Street 773.643.1106 / 9171)
Learn and practice Zen meditation at Rockefeller Chapel. (5:00 pm - 6:45PM, 1156 East 59th Street)

Thursday

zzzz....slow night in Hyde Park...

Friday

Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-2AM, 5201 S. Harper). [Note--this is not particularly affordable, but it's a Chicago institution & worth checking out at least once]
Jeff Chan live at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)

Saturday

Try food from around the world at the International Food Festival , UChicago's version of the Taste of Chicago (free & open to the public, 6PM-10PM, Ida Noyes Hall 1212 E. 59th)
Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-3AM, 5201 S. Harper)
The Chicago Legends Blues live at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)

If you know of something going on in the neighborhood that's not on the list, send me a comment or drop me a line at Mshydepark@gmail.com.

A quick post for my local readers...

2010-01-16T09:23:00.005-06:00

Ok, folks, so I don't have much time to write, but I wanted to post quickly that Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that the city and university have (finally!) announced the winner of the bid to re-develop Harper Court. The lucky company is called Vermillion and, according to the article, they're planning to build a large mix-used facility and boutique hotel called Hotel Indigo. Read the full article here: Vermilion wins bid to demolish Harper Court, redevelop site

To get everyone caught up, Harper Court is an aging strip-mall-like structure on 52nd/53rd streets that housed the famous, now-defunct Dixie Kitchen and remains home to the Calypso Cafe and a handful of other Hyde Park businesses. The University purchased the complex a while back and has been working with the city to plan a large-scale "redevelopment project" (i.e. a plan to knock down and replaced the complex with something shiny & new). Several companies have made bids to win the contract to develop the space (including the company that worked on Block 37 downtown) and most proposed plans have included mid-rise structures, a gym, movie theaters, and a hotel. (See the university-run 53rd Street Blog for more history).

Long story short, big changes are about to come to Hyde Park and I think a lot of locals, myself included, have some mixed feelings about what they would like to see happen (I'll post more about this later...) First, though, I'd love to hear from you. How do you feel about the redevelopment project? What would you like to see happen? What concerns do you have?

These are a few of my favorite things....#2

2010-01-14T08:37:00.010-06:00

In the upcoming weeks, I'll be posting, in no particular order, my 10 favorite things to eat/see/do in Hyde Park, including businesses, parks, activities, you name it. A few days ago, I told you all about Jackson Park/Osaka Garden. Today, I want to tell you about Hyde Park Produce (1226 E. 53rd).

First off, I have a little confession to make that may be shocking to local readers... I've lived and/or gone to school in Hyde Park for about 8 or 9 years, but somehow never managed to visit the place until this year. I never had anything against it, I just always lived a little too far to walk and ended up instead grinning and bearing the crummy and over-priced produce at the (now-defunct) Hyde Park Co-op on 55th. Anyway, when I finally did make the (I know it sounds ridiculous now) 7 block trek to Hyde Park Produce, my world just turned upside down.

This place is amazing. The store is located in an admittedly blah strip mall but, once you walk in, it's a different story. The store is clean, well-organized, well-stocked, and full of piles of beautiful, bright produce of the same quality you would see at an outdoor farmers' market. You can find everything from your standard local veggies to exotic items like wild mushrooms, chiles, and bulk fresh herbs, all for shockingly cheap. Want to make some crazy complicated recipe from a Rick Bayless cookbook? You can easily find everything you would need here.

I was always under the false impression that the store only carried produce, but they actually have a pretty full stock of grocery items. You might not find every major brand name cereal that you look for, but you could very easily do all of your shopping here without having to go to a supermarket. The store also has a full gourmet deli counter, as well as prepared foods like soups, salsas, and tamales on the cheap.

I could go on and on, but maybe it's best I just point you to Hyde Park Produce's Yelp page, where the place receives absolutely glowing reviews.

A (teensy-bit political) Side Note: Some of you may be wondering why I would bother taking so much time to talk about something as mundane as a produce/grocery store. Besides wanting to promote a local business that I love, I also thought it was important to write about this place in particular because I want to dispel the misconception that Hyde Park is a food desert, or that we have less access to fresh foods than northsiders. I actually had a harder time finding cheap, high quality fresh fruit and vegetables when I lived in Lincoln Square than I do now! Of course, there is the broad and complex problem of limited grocery options on the Southside---which I won't even try to touch on here-- but I think Hyde Park Produce is a wonderful example of a place where southsiders of all income levels can and do come to buy fresh ingredients on a budget, and this makes me very happy.

Things to do this week! (Week of 1/11)

2010-01-11T21:27:00.006-06:00

Bored and broke? Here are some cool free & low-cost things to do in the neighborhood this week:

Ongoing

The final week of Heartland at Smart Museum of Art, a free exhibition of performances, drawings, photography, and installations made "in and in reference to" the American Heartland (5550 S. Greenwood, 773.702.0200 )
Semi-autobiographical solo exhibition of photographs by Chicago-based artist Anna Shteynshleyger at the Renaissance Society (5811 S. Ellis Avenue, 773.702.8670)
Bundle up and come skating on the Midway Plaisance Park Outdoor Ice Rink . Admission is free, skate rentals are $5. Hot chocolate and concessions available (12AM-7PM, east 59th Street at Woodlawn).
Check out the twice daily carillon recital at Rockefeller Chapel and then take a free guided tour. Then climb the chapel's 271 steps to get an amazing view of the city. (11:30 AM and 5:30PM, 1156 East 59th Street)
Catch super cheap quirky/artsy flicks during the week and 2nd run mainstream movies on the weekend at Doc Films. ($5 general admission, Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall 1212 East 59th Street)

Tuesday

Learn to grow your own organic food indoors during at the Winter Gardening and Sprouting Workshop at Swift Hall (12PM-1PM, 1025 East 58th Street)
Take an hour-long restorative yoga class in beautiful Rockefeller Chapel. Free for students, $5 recommended donation for everyone else (6:45 pm - 7:45PM, 1156 East 59th Street)

Wednesday

Live music (and delicious traditional Italian fare) Wednesdays at Piccolo Mondo (7-11PM, 1642 E.56th Street 773.643.1106 / 9171)
Learn and practice Zen meditation at Rockefeller Chapel. (5:00 pm - 6:45PM, 1156 East 59th Street)

Thursday

zzzz....slow night in Hyde Park...

Friday

Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-2AM, 5201 S. Harper). [Note--this is not particularly affordable, but it's a Chicago institution & worth checking out at least once]

Saturday

Live blues at the Checkerboard Lounge ($10 cover, $5 for students+2 drink minimum, 8PM-3AM, 5201 S. Harper)
The Usual Mistakes live at Chant (no cover, 18% gratuity on all tabs, 9:30 PM-12:30AM, 1509 E. 53rd)

If you know of something going on in the neighborhood that's not on the list, drop me a line at Mshydepark@gmail.com.

These are a few of my favorite things....#1

2010-01-10T12:38:00.019-06:00

Jackson Park & Osaka Garden: A huge park that begins at the Museum of Science and Industry and extends south into the Southshore and Woodlawn neighborhoods, Jackson Park is probably the closest thing Chicago has to New York's Central Park (and was, FYI, designed by the same guys). What makes it so wonderful is that, once you're inside, you feel completely cut off from the bustle of the city. It is quiet and peaceful, a great spot for birdwatching, and full of beautiful flora and fauna. There is a big lagoon (where you can fish!) that stretches out from the majestic back entrance of the museum and, forgive me for being cheesy, looks like a moat around a castle. If you walk deeper into the park, you'll also stumble across the strange-but-beautiful, 24ft high gold Statue of the Republic.

The highlight of the park, though, is Osaka garden which sits on Wooded Island. To try to sum it up, it's a classic Japanese strolling garden, complete with bridges, a pagoda, shady trees and rolling hills. It's a perfect place to bring a book or to just sit and think. I think only pictures can truly do it justice, so see below.

Thanks to Jim Watkins for the beautiful pictures of Osaka Garden. Find him on Flickr.

Hyde Park, Chicago for Dummies (Lesson 1)

2010-01-10T09:33:00.010-06:00

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Hyde Park locals, bear with me, but I think it would be worthwhile to take a minute to provide some basic information about Hyde Park for those who don't know much about it. (If this is all old news to you, feel free to roll your eyes and skip to my next entry..)

Ok, so first of off, let's talk about the location. Many northsiders seem to be very confused about this. I cannot tell you how often I see articles in the Chicago Tribune and Suntimes that describe events as having taken place in Hyde Park when, in fact, they were in Woodlawn or Washington Park. According to most maps, Hyde Park goes East to West from the lake to Cottage Grove, and North to South from about 50th to 59th (i.e. the "Midway"). Just north of Hyde Park is Kenwood, home of Mr. Obama and some of the most beautiful homes you've ever seen. Hyde Park and Kenwood are sort of like Siamese twins and are often considered a single community, even though they are technically separate neighborhoods.

Knowing and understanding the boundaries of Hyde Park is important, I think, because misunderstandings about it often cause people to make inaccurate generalizations about the crime rate in Hyde Park. Yes, the nearby Washington Park neighborhood can be a little rough around the edges and you do hear frequent news of crime in that area. Same with Woodlawn. You might be surprised to learn, though, that the crime rate in Hyde Park-Kenwood is about the same as it is in Lincoln Park-Lakeview, i.e. extremely low. The local public schools-- Ray and Hart-- are some of the best (and most multicultural) in the city. [I'd also like to add that, in spite of some enduring problems with crime, Washington Park and Woodlawn have been revitalized in past years and really have a lot to offer, including new businesses and beautiful parkland].

Another common misconception about living in Hyde Park is that you're removed from most of the goings-on in the city. Not at all true. The neighborhood is literally less than 10 minutes from downtown, and rarely more than 20-30 to any part of the northside. The #6 bus will take you to Michigan Avenue in 15 minutes, or you can hop on the #55 and take it to the Green or Red lines.

There's also tons to do within the neighborhood (see my upcoming posts for a list)-- from live music to museums to bookstores to great restaurants to the beach. What I love most is that you can live locally and walk pretty much anywhere you'd need to go.

Check out this HydePark/Kenwood travel wiki for more info. I'm not a contributor to the wiki and take issue with some of their comments about local dining, but otherwise they provide a pretty thorough guide to the area.

Who/What is Ms. Hyde Park? (new and improved version)

2010-01-07T12:30:00.002-06:00

Who am I?

I'm a young professional, born and raised in Chicago. I grew up mostly on the north side, but have been a Hyde Parker for about 8 years. I've lived, worked, and gone to school all over the city from Rogers Park to Uptown to Lincoln Square to Humbolt Park to Austin, and have spent time pretty much everywhere else in Chicago. I deeply love this city and many of its neighborhoods, but Hyde Park is my favorite. Why? Well that's largely what this blog will be about but, in a nutshell, I love that Hyde Park is diverse and multicultural, that it is jam-packed with art, culture, and affordable food, that it is very walkable (i.e. you can easily get to great parks, the lake, dining, nightlife, and shopping by foot) and that it somehow manages to feel like a small-town and the big city at the same time.

OK, but why the Ms. Hyde Park blog?

I think a lot of people misunderstand and/or under-appreciate Hyde Park because they just don't know enough about it or haven't had the right person show them around. I'd like for this blog to serve as a sort of guide or reference for people who are visiting Hyde Park either from within Chicago or across the country, as well as a place for locals to discuss community issues and to find and share recommendations about what to eat, see, and do in the neighborhood and nearby. My hope is that this will be a blog about what makes Hyde Park such a wonderful, unique community, and what can make it even better.

I have to confess-- my motives for wanting to help others love Hyde Park are just a little bit selfish. You see, I've noticed that good businesses and restaurants in the area often struggle more than they should because locals are cynical and outsiders simply don't bother coming into the neighborhood to give these spots a chance. This lack of engagement with the community has been a barrier to great existing businesses being as successful as they could be, and to new businesses coming to the area. I'm in favor of organic, grassroots-driven growth and development in Hyde Park and I think that this happens when people get excited about what a neighborhood has to offer. My basic philosophy is that the more energy, enthusiasm, and interest in Hyde Park we can generate, the more we can help the neighborhood, its businesses, and its locals to thrive.

So, with all of this said, welcome to my blog! Please feel free to comment or email me at MsHydePark@gmail.com to let me know what you think so far, to ask questions about the blog or the community, or just to say hi.