Holt’s mac & cheese pizza

What you do for a living: I’m a master-level hairstylist at Ash & Willow Eco Salon and Beauty Apothecary here in Park Ridge, specializing in both cut and color services.

How long you’ve lived here: I was born and raised in Park Ridge, living here for 39 years.

What you like best about Park Ridge: I like how the community does a great job supporting the local small businesses. Growing up here, there weren’t many restaurants that were both adult and kid friendly. This past decade though, it’s been great to see new restaurants and bars that are family friendly open and flourish. A lot of people who grew up here are now raising their families here, and as a parent myself, it’s nice to be amongst people who I’ve known for many years.

Best meal you’ve had recently: The spicy gnocchi at Pines Room! It’s a light cream vodka sauce so it’s not heavy like a lot of cream sauces tend to be. And the spice is just enough where it’s not overpowering the taste. The vibe of the atmosphere is relaxing, even on nights it gets crowded. The dark lighting and decor give off a very mysterious, romantic feel, almost like you really are living back in the Prohibition era. Perfect for date night or with a small gathering of friends.

Favorite restaurant in the area: I’m a big fan of Holt’s and Pennyville Station. Holt’s has a family-orientated atmosphere yet is still a good place to gather with friends and have drinks. Their unique pizza menu is great too. I like Pennyville because they do a great job hosting private dinner events. It’s nice to have a private room to eat and then be able to walk to the bar for drinks to finish the night. Also, the owner, who is a Park Ridge native, does a wonderful job meeting and greeting all the guests and makes sure everyone feels at home.

Favorite “hidden gem” restaurant: Pines Room. A lot of people at first didn’t realize they served food, but they offer a small menu with unique food options. As much as I love going there for drinks and enjoy the vibe of the atmosphere, their small menu is delicious!

Ash & Willow Salon

Best bar to grab a drink or to catch the game: Holt’s. You don’t feel too crammed with the larger high-top tables they have. I’m not much of a sports girl, but being around it all my life I’ve adapted to enjoy being with friends who are sports fans. I tend to get sucked into the “emotion” of the sport, especially during the year the cubs won the World Series. I was pregnant with my daughter at the time they won, and I remember going there with work friends for the winning game and it was so fun getting sucked into the adrenaline-filled room and celebrating the win with my ice water!

I like Pennyville because they do a great job hosting private dinner events. It’s nice to have a private room to eat and then be able to walk to the bar for drinks to finish the night.”

A great night out with friends usually includes… dinner and drinks! Usually we start out eating at one of the local restaurants and then hopping around town having drinks at all the restaurants/bars. It’s nice because everything is pretty much within walking distance.

The best way to spend a Saturday in the summer: On Murphy Lake and Park Lake with family, good friends and our kids. Both lakes are located here in town, surrounded by beautiful residential homes. You can do most lake activities such as swimming, fishing and paddle boating. It’s nice to be able to enjoy the perks of “lake life” without having to drive anywhere!

Mystic Waters

What’s something you look forward to every summer?
Taking my daughter to the Centennial Aquatic Center. Her favorite summer treat is a Sponge Bob popsicle, so it’s become a special summer tradition to go to the pool together and get one. Plus it’s always nice to see and hang out with friends we have here in town. We also enjoy going to Mystic Waters in Des Plaines for a change of scenery. They have water slides, a sand play area and our favorite, the lazy river.

Secret spot: Chief O’Neill’s Pub on Elston Avenue on the northwest side of the city. They have the best Sunday brunch I’ve ever had! It’s a family-owned Irish pub with amazing traditional Irish food. I’m especially impressed with the outside patio area, which gives a magical vibe being surrounded by flowers and hanging string lights. The brunch menu is huge and offers a wide variety of dishes. My favorites are the corned beef hash and taco bar.

2 Sisters Boutique

Favorite local store or best shopping area: 2 Sisters Boutique. Very friendly and helpful staff. I very rarely wear jeans because I can never find a brand that fits me well, but I recently discovered the brand Dear John Denim at 2 Sisters and it’s the best pair of denim I’ve ever owned. I’m always finding cute summer dresses that can be worn both casual and dressed up. I like the fact they don’t overstock their clothing items so not everyone is walking around town wearing the same thing!

Underrated activity in the area: Going to Centered Clay Collective, a new pottery studio and private art therapy space in South Park. They’re always offering fun classes.

The best staycation experience we’ve had yet was at the Swissotel on Wacker Drive. They provide the room with activities based on the age of your children.”

Weekend getaway spot: I enjoy taking my daughter into the city for a “staycation.” I find a good rate for a room at a nice hotel, and we order room service and walk around the city. If we don’t stay the night, we bring our dog down to the dog beach or go on a Chicago boat tour when they have a pet-friendly day. The best hotel experience we’ve had yet was at the Swissotel on Wacker Drive. They provide the room with activities based on the age of your children. In our case, there were coloring books and board games!

What have you heard great things about but have yet to try?
Weso Mexican Steakhouse. So far I’ve heard positive reviews about the food, atmosphere and staff.