GayCities Insiders show you the best of Chicago

From International Mr. Leather to Pride to Market Days and, this year, the Gay Softball World Series, Chicago is renowned for its range of big gay events, drawing fans from across the globe. Once there, however, there’s such a myriad of options, from go-go bars to fine dining, it can hard to know where to begin.

Fear not. GayCities newly appointed Chicago Insiders show you how to get the best out of the Windy City. We’ve featured a few of these members here to highlight their take. (When you stop by the profiles of these true Chicago fans, be sure to say hi!)

Chicago’s GutTaste suggests checking out the drag shows at Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club because “they make you laugh.” If you end the night there after more than a few drinks, head to Melrose Diner because the “service is great and they take care of you if you’ve had a few too many… Been there drunk at 3am and sober at 4am and the food still tastes good.”

On the next warm day, presumably sober, he advocates hightailing it to the heavily gay Hollywood Beach: “Too Bad our summers are only two months long :-(”

Baasecha1, meanwhile, is a Chicago foodie. He recommends the Uptown bar & eatery Big Chicks for the BBQ: “I have been coming here for almost 7 years now and always have fun,” he writes. “Other great reasons to go: down-to-earth crowd, dollar burgers on Monday, fun theme nights, good drinks, friendly staff and Michelle the amazing owner.” In the mood for Boystown Thai? He says check out Joy’s Noodles & Rice, where the “food is good and the prices are low.”

Visiting Chicago from hometown Salt Lake City, SummerLovers enjoyed the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower for modern, comfortable rooms and the “outdoor lounge with groovy couches right on Rush and Chestnut, where you can hang out with friends or clients and order yummy cocktails.”

And, the couple says, don’t forget to check out Little Jim’s Tavern, a “classic old school gay dive… fun bartenders and affordable cocktails.”

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