Geeze, is it really Monday again? Well despite the weekend being over, I am very excited to share the first post of the “Local Loves” series. As mentioned, I will be selecting a Chicago local each month to share their favorite “go to” spot or event in the city. I really hope you guys like this as much as I do. I had so much fun with Jessica and was thrilled when she volunteered. So let’s dive right in and meet this little lady shall we?
NAME: Jessica
OCCUPATION: 3rd grade teacher
LIVES: Gold Coast
LOCAL LOVE: Mariano’s Fresh Market
LOCATION: Streeterville
WHY: A grocery store with an ambiance! A reasonable price point with quality products…giving Wholefoods a run for its money.
Who says grocery shopping has to be such a task? Jessica just loves Mariano’s for the incredible food selection, FREE parking, live piano music and best of all…the affordable prices.
 |
| {you can sip wine and shop at the same time!} |
She recommends heading straight to the wine bar for a nice glass of wine, prior to pulling out the shopping list. You can browse the aisles or wait for your cold cuts, all while sipping your favorite vino! Genius right?
This little wine bar even has a happy hour. Every day from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, you can get quality $5 glasses, $3 beer bottles and free appetizers.
 |
| {speaking of vino, they have a killer wine selection} |
 |
| {an equally impressive plethora of microbrews and beer} |
 |
| {affordable & gorgeous flowers} |
 |
| {they even play live piano music on the weekends! I mean seriously, right?} |
 |
| {gourmet pre-made entrees and sides} |
 |
| {extremely friendly and HELPFUL staff. Asked a few questions as to where things were and each person was eager to assist} |
 |
| {food court – sushi station} |
 |
| {outside seating…} |
 |
| {…with this gorgeous skyline view. Are you dying this is a grocery store?!} |
 |
| {fancy sweets} |
 |
| {fell in love with their mini cakes for only $10! Perfect for a friend’s birthday} |
 |
| {pre-made cheese plates – Jessica purchases these for Ravinia, book club or any other time she is expecting company} |
One of my favorite tips Jessica offered was that Mariano’s whips together “park baskets“. Pick one up for the free music concerts in Millennium Park right next door! It does not get any more convenient than this ladies.
Shop Well. Eat Well. Live Well. Sounds like Mariano’s is on to something… Jessica, thanks again for showing me this amazing little gem. I had such a blast with you and enjoyed exploring every aisle. Be sure to follow Jessica on twitter and Instagram to see where else this cutie pie wanders.
Do you have a favorite event, go to spot or know where to get the perfect cup of coffee? Email me to be considered for a “Local Loves” feature!
Great first Local Loves feature! Looking forward to more to come 🙂