Chicago Spots Get a Boost From Obama Win!!
68Every since Barack Obama became the President- Elect, all of his Chicago "hotspots" have received much attention. And Chicago/Illinois tourism is hoping to get a huge boost from all of the Obamamania.
First of all there is his barbershop, Hyde Park Hair Salon on 53rd and Blackstone, where his barber, Zariff has been cutting Obama's hair for close to 15 years. Zariff is credited with giving Obama his signature low-cut look and now patrons come in asking for the "Obama Cut". It has also been reported that visitors and tourists stop by the shop just to take pictures and sit in the chair that Obama sits in. Zariff will remain Obama's barber, but is not sure if he will move or commute.
Next is "Obama's Bookstore", which is 57th Street Books on 1301 E 57th St. After Obama won the election, the bookstore put a banner in their window that congratulated Obama and thanked him for being a longtime customer (since 1986). I have been to this store myself and it is a gem of a store. It looks rather small and unassuming on the outside, but it is filled with little nooks full of great books. It definitely has that cozy, neighborhood feel and I really enjoyed my visits there.
Directly down the street from the 57th Street Books is Medici (1327 E. 57th St.) which is a causal eatery that is frequented by Obama and his family. Medici created a tee shirt that says "Obama Eats Here", and has sold nearly 3,000 of the shirts at $18 each. I have eaten at Medici a few time and usually opt for the pizza.
Although Chicago is famous for its deep dish pizza, Obama likes the thin crust variety served by Italian Fiesta Pizzeria (1400 E 47th St). Italian Fiesta Pizzeria has several locations and are not dine-in restaurants.
Obama recently caused a stir in Chicago when he made a surprise visit to Manny's Deli located at 1141 S. Jefferson. And just in case you haven't heard, he ordered the corned beef sandwich which Manny's if famous for. Also, this deli is a spot where many politicians regularly eat lunch, and visit during campaigns.
When it comes to soul food Chicago has got many options, but MacArthur's (5412 W. Madison St.) is Obama's choice-He even wrote about it in his book Audacity of Hope. It has also been reported that he rang up MacArthur's on election night to order mac and cheese.
For more upscale dining The Obamas favor Rick Bayless' Topolobampo ( 445 N. Clark St) which serves gourmet Mexican food. Rick Bayless has even been noted as a contender for the White House chef position although he does not have his sights set on D.C.
Spiaggia (980 N. Michigan Ave) is another upscale, swanky restaurant where the Obamas have been spotted dining. This restaurant specializes in Italian fare and is where the Obamas had their post-election date. You will need to have a bankroll to eat here, however, Spiaggia does have a sister cafe (2nd level) that offers a less expensive menu.
To get suited up Obama sports Hart Schaffner and Marx (HSM) which is an Illinois based apparel company . HSM tailored a worsted-wool, navy blue, two-button suit (retails for $1500) especially for Obama and now shoppers are asking for it. All of HSM's ' suits are made in the USA in a Chicagoland factory and can be bought at various retail shops.
Mrs. Obama gets many of her stylish dresses from designer Maria Pinto (135 N. Jefferson St) who has been gaining much press for being one of Michelle's favorites. Oprah is also a fan of Maria Pinto's designs so she (Pinto) is set for life.
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