Ravenswood

The Ravenswood neighborhood is a thriving community just north and west of downtown. One of the neighborhood's crowning glories is the Old Town School of Folk Music. It originated in Old Town, but the performance venue (which has hosted the likes of Joni Mitchell) was moved up to Ravenswood in recent years and continues to produce great folk shows. A slew of Ravenswood cafés and taverns also welcome live music and the occasional comedy act, in addition to supplying the bulk of neighborhood nightlife.

On the dining front, a long list of excellent restaurants has made a blip on Chicago's culinary radar. Romantic French bistros, trendy sushi bars, unforgettable Italian pasterias, and satisfying American diners cover any mood or craving with style and masterfully prepared meals.