Foxtail on the Lake in Des Plaines

What you do for a living: I work in analytics. I’m currently the Senior Director of Data Strategy for the University of Chicago, working in the Alumni Department. I’ve worked with data for my entire career, and I absolutely love it. For me, I get great satisfaction in taking a bunch of numbers and helping people understand what they mean. I’m also running for 4th Ward Alderperson here in Park Ridge this spring.

How long you’ve lived here: I’m a newbie here in Park Ridge, having only lived here for 15 years.

What you like best about Park Ridge: The community that is here. Everywhere I go, the people are warm and friendly. We live close to the Uptown area, so it’s so nice to be able to walk into town and have a meal, see some friends, meet some new ones, and just have a great night out.

Best meal you’ve had recently: We finally made it out to Foxtail on the Lake, and wow, was it incredible. The service was top notch, and the food was perfect. I had some amazing paella, and everyone was thrilled with the food. Can’t wait to be back in the summer and enjoy the patio.

Favorite restaurant in the area: Outside of Chef Jerry’s monthly charity wine dinners at Harp & Fiddle, it’s got to be Reyes Steakhouse. When I need a filet, this is where you will find me. From the salads to the fantastic risotto, this place always makes me very happy.

When I need a filet, Reyes Steakhouse is where you will find me. From the salads to the fantastic risotto, this place always makes me very happy.

Reyes Steakhouse filet

Favorite “hidden gem” restaurant: It’s the speakeasy, The Pines Room. Where has this been all my life? If you can find it — and I’m not telling you where it is — just tell Bart to make you a drink. It will be inventive and delicious.

Best bar to grab a drink or to catch the game: I’ve been in to Mully’s Grill a few times now, and it is definitely an up and comer. But for now, I’ve got to say Harp and Fiddle. They have lots of TVs, and are always accommodating when I ask them to flip it over to the game that I want to watch.

The Park Ridge Cycling Club meets up every Saturday morning by the Pickwick Theater, and we ride out to the lake or some other fun spot, and then stop for a coffee and snack before heading back home. There are so many great trails close by.

A great night out with friends usually includes… wine, and maybe an old fashioned or two. Looking forward to enjoying the new Fire + Wine and catching up with friends, talking about the kids and the job and where the next vacation is going to be. Our lives are all too busy to meet up as often as we want, but these are the times I cherish the most.

The best way to spend a Saturday in the spring: On my bike out with the Park Ridge Cycling Club. We meet up every Saturday morning by the Pickwick Theater, ride out to the lake or some other fun spot, and then stop for a coffee and snack before heading back home. There are so many great trails close by too, from the Forest Preserves to some great trails that take you out to the Chicago Botanic Garden. There’s nothing better.

Park Ridge Farmers Market

What’s something you look forward to every spring? 
The opening of the Farmers Market in Park Ridge. It’s such a great place to get some fresh fruit and vegetables for grilling season. And maybe a snack or two.

Favorite local store or best shopping area: I’m not a huge shopper, but as we think about spring, Devon Ave Meats is my go-to for steaks on the grill. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. I have to hit up Triple Scoop’d for ice cream after I’m done picking out steaks. For clothes, I always find some great t-shirts at 2 Sisters in Uptown every time I walk in.

Secret spot: The Wildwood Nature Center has this amazing little walk around two ponds that’s so peaceful. We always see some turtles and so much wildlife. A walk around the area will have you forgetting all your worries.

Devon Ave Meats is my go-to for steaks on the grill. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Then I have to hit up Triple Scoop’d for ice cream afterward. For clothes, I always find some great t-shirts at 2 Sisters in Uptown every time I walk in.

Underrated activity in the area: Trivia night at Beer on the Wall. It’s every Wednesday night, and it’s a great time to hang out with friends and realize they are all just as clueless as you. And we get to all yell, “Science!”

Weekend getaway spot: Boston. I love to pop in for a quick Celtics game and some awesome Italian food in the North End. For a romantic weekend, head to Anaway Place (cabin rentals) in Wisconsin. It’s wonderful, especially in the fall.

What have you heard great things about but have yet to try?
Sad to say this, but I’ve never been to a concert at Ravinia. Everyone says it’s fantastic, and I really want to get there and experience live music in the great outdoors. Hopefully this summer.

Ravinia concert