“I was aware of Second City’s importance growing up, and it left a big impression on me. When I was in eighth grade, I wrote a paper on Second City’s impact on comedy. Then I interned there in college. This institution was a large reason why I wanted to become a comedian and get into this business.”

“This is my favorite burger in Chicago! When I interned at Second City in college, I would go here for lunch all the time. It’s just a really cool vibe in that zany Second City area. It’s such a simple menu: burger, cheeseburger, and the golden fries. I always get a lettuce-wrap burger. I crave it.”

“The Park West is an amazing theater in the neighborhood where I grew up. It was inspirational to me as a kid. I’ll be performing there next year, in March 2025, which is kind of wild!”

“No matter where I am in the world, I always crave the gyro salad and ‘wet fries’ from Athenian Room, a very casual Greek restaurant with amazing food. You wouldn’t expect it to be that good just by looking at the outside. Ask for the red sauce.”

“My mother, Linda, started this incredible Chicago business. She’s kind of a mad-scientist genius, coming up with all these brilliant, creative flavors. You can order them online, or there’s a window you can go up to. They’re the best cookies I’ve ever had—and not just because they are my mom’s! The Oreo Nutella and the half-chocolate/half-vanilla are some of my favorites. I hope everyone goes to buy them!”

“Home of my Chicago Cubs, this is the baseball park where my childhood was made. I went to middle school a few blocks away and remember hearing whenever a team would score at recess. I remember how amazing it was in 2016 when they won the World Series!”

“Located in The Peninsula hotel, this high-end Chinese spot is simply the best. The food itself is unique, and the staff is so friendly. I like the kung pao chicken, and the purple rice is amazing. My grandparents like the Peking duck.”

“I have so many memories of picking up pints of mint chocolate chip ice cream here with my dad. Located just outside Chicago in Wilmette, Homer’s is the best ice cream in the area. My grandfather John loved their peach flavor.”

“Green Street Smoked Meats is an absolute Chicago gem. I crave their prime chopped brisket and elote-style corn. Plus, the vibe is extraordinary. Located in the West Loop, it’s the perfect summer spot!”

“This was another restaurant I would frequent growing up—it’s really amazing. My favorite things are the beef rolls in rice paper and the amazing fried rice. It’s a great location in downtown Chicago, very Gold Coast, trendy vibe, and a cool bar in there as well to get drinks.”