Food & Travel...

So I spent a few days in Chicago last week and, as always, had a lovely time in the Windy City. I already knew about the greening efforts going on in Chicago, thanks to our incredibly engaging and informative RiverWired video on the subject, but I am happy to report that I encountered some more new, green additions to the city since I last visited. 

I recently blogged about my friend (and fellow Northwestern graduate), Jessa Brinkmeyer, being mentioned on TreeHugger when her new clothing store, Pivot, became the first eco-boutique in Chicago.  I had the opportunity to check it out this past week, and I have to say, I was struck by just how damn hip it was. Jessa’s set up quite an operation, combining cutting-edge designers and products with an environmentally conscious, responsible mindset.  If you’re in town, head down to Fulton Market and check it out ASAP.

That same night, I had dinner with some friends at a place called Crust, which is the very first certified organic restaurant in the Midwest.  It specializes in organic, gourmet pizzas (which are referred to on the menu as “flatbreads”), and boasts a wide selection of organic beer and wine to accompany your meal.  It’s a bit pricey for the amount of food you get, but it’s a great concept, and the food is incredibly tasty, so I have to say I’d be inclined to dine there again the next time I find myself in the Chicagoland area. 

I also ventured to the Chicago Green City Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday in Lincoln Park, from May through October.  It’s been named one of the top ten farmer’s markets in the country by USA Today, and boasts an incredible selection of local and organically grown produce.  You can continue to visit the market through November and December at its winter location inside the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

Finally, if you’re in Chicago on May 17^th and 18^th,2008, head over to Navy Pier and check out the Chicago Green Festival, which features green businesses, fair trade green products, and food from around the country. Should be a good time. Perhaps I’ll see you there.

Well, there you have it.  Chicago is a city at the forefront of sustainability.  ‘Nuff said.