Chicago weather is tricky. One day its cold(last week) and everyone’s pulling out their Northface and Moncler with gloves and the next(like today) it’s 80 and you’re eating tacos on Big star patio in October, fucking tricky I tell you. Let me be the first to tell you NOT to fall for the trick show, the temps are going to drop and then what sexless, single susie?!
Reality is this: it’s October, you’re reading this because you either want to meet new men or errr that guy on reserve might not be working out so much. Here are my suggestions for some spots to find a snuggle buddy(or 2 but don’t be greedy).
Haberdash– this store is always crawling with cute guys (straight and gay) and for good reason. Their selection of clothing ranges from brands like Red Wing heritage, Levi, Rag & Bone, and more.Guys can also get a hot shave and a cut while in store(bonus he’s into grooming). Here’s my suggestion make friends with the Haberdash Associates or go in there to browse some selections for your brother, Uncle, dad, second cousin once removed.
First Fridays at MCA and Second Fridays in Pilsen– Although these 2 happen in two different parts of town, they both have their fair share of men. The best time to hit First Fridays at The Museum of Contemporary Art is when a new exhibit is showing. The first time I attended First Fridays was during the Jeff Koons exhibit and that was such a great time.
Second Friday’s in the Pilsen Arts District has a mix of people from all over the city. That whole stretch on Halsted comes alive and the beverages offered at different galleries help break the ice.
PHLI: The Hyde Park outpost is no longer but they are now located in the Lacuna Lofts.
This store owned by Dave Jeff is a sneaker fiend and streetwear haven. Dave Jeff is that dude and he knows a lot of guys I went to a party once(when they were located in Hyde Park) and I ran into an ex situation, met 2 new guys and a one we will call “for a reason.”
Go in tell them you are looking for some cool sneakers or something to surprise someone with and be engaging.
2150 S. Canalport Ave
BULLS Game: This really is a no brainer but you have to be a bit strategic with it. Know the basics of basketball if you don’t already. Don’t go to a bulls game with like 5 girlfriends because someone’s feelings will get hurt. Looking to nab athletes is so 2000 really(unless that’s your thing, I guess) as there are tons of cool guys watching the game and avaailable. If you can snag courtside tickets awesome, if not no worries but please don’t do 300 section(how much can you see that far up). Pregame in bar one and if you can the Ketel One lounge is a chill place to spy guys too during the game. Overdressing is also really not necessary(unless you are in box seats).
Volunteer: One of the perks of being altruistic is you get to meet some cool new people and you may even meet your Mr. Right or Mr. just for now giving back. The untold truth is MOST people join junior boards/volunteer to meet partners. It helps that you are all there serving a great cause and to some degree it cuts out some vetting because they may be on the same wavelength as you. I met my recent situation* volunteering(but that’s not really saying much).
Honorable mention: Yolk in Streeterville. Although it’s stigmatized as tourist central, Streeterville has a decent amount of single guys(helloo-NMH, RIC, Kellogg, Booth, Children’s, Fox & Obel)
Whole Foods Lincoln Park- Seriously this place is awesome sauce! Let’s go try some beer, walk around with glass of wine and let the scoping commence.
Good luck!
So tell me what do you think? Did I miss some spots?
*A “situation” is an undefined partner.
