Unforgettable Chicago Weekend: Air & Water Show, Culinary Delights, and Family Fun
Weekend Waffles
This past weekend has truly been an extraordinary whirlwind of fun, laughter, and unforgettable Chicago experiences. The city really knows how to put on a show, and this time, it was amplified by the joyous company of my eldest sister, Alessandra, and my brother-in-law, Cassidy, who made the journey all the way from San Francisco. Their visit, though purely coincidental in timing, perfectly aligned with one of Chicago’s most iconic events: the Chicago Air & Water Show.
Watching the legendary Blue Angels slice through the sky, their jets roaring against the stunning backdrop of the Chicago skyline, was an experience that truly took our breath away. We were incredibly fortunate to view this spectacular display from one of the city’s most exclusive rooftops, offering unparalleled panoramic views. The precision and power of the aerial acrobatics were nothing short of magnificent, painting vivid streaks across the expansive blue canvas above. If you happened to be following my adventures on Snapchat (@blogoverthyme) this weekend, you would have caught some incredible clips of this mesmerizing performance!
Exploring Chicago’s Iconic Sights and Culinary Gems
Beyond the high-flying excitement of the Air & Water Show, our weekend itinerary was packed with quintessential Chicago activities. A definite highlight was embarking on the renowned Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise. Gliding along the Chicago River, we gained a unique perspective on the city’s world-famous architectural marvels. The knowledgeable guides brought the history and innovation of each towering skyscraper to life, from the Art Deco masterpieces to the modern giants, making us appreciate the rich design tapestry of this incredible metropolis even more.
To truly embrace the summer spirit, we also enjoyed a refreshing swim in Lake Michigan from Ohio Street Beach. The cool waters offered a perfect respite from the city heat, and the views of the skyline from the beach were simply spectacular. It’s moments like these that remind me why Chicago is such a special place to live, offering both urban sophistication and natural beauty right at your fingertips.
A Taste of Chicago: From XOCO to River Roast
No Chicago visit is complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene. We made a highly anticipated return to Rick Bayless’s XOCO, a favorite of mine, and it was just as delicious as I remembered. This marked my first time back since moving here, and the authentic tortas were a comforting and flavorful treat. The bustling atmosphere and rich aromas of Mexican cuisine made for a truly satisfying lunch experience, solidifying XOCO’s place on my list of must-visit Chicago eateries.
The culinary journey continues today, with exciting plans for brunch at River Roast downtown. This acclaimed restaurant, known for its stunning riverfront views and delectable dishes, promises another memorable meal to cap off our fantastic weekend. I’m eagerly anticipating their unique take on classic brunch fare and the chance to soak in more of the city’s dynamic energy.
Adding another layer of excitement to an already action-packed schedule, my parents are flying in today for a short but sweet visit through Wednesday. This means even more opportunities to explore the city, share delicious meals, and create lasting family memories. Make sure to follow along on Instagram and Snapchat for live updates and fun clips of all our adventures and, of course, every mouthwatering bite we take throughout the city!
Weekly Culinary Inspirations and Must-Try Recipes
This week has also been brimming with culinary inspiration from my fellow food bloggers and creators. Here’s a roundup of some truly exciting finds that have caught my eye and are now on my “must-make” or “must-try” list:
- Major excitement this week: My talented friend Adrianna made a big ass doughnut with equally big ass sprinkles! This whimsical creation is a testament to joyful baking and certainly a showstopper for any gathering. It’s the ultimate treat for a special occasion, guaranteed to bring smiles and deliciousness.
- I’m absolutely craving Jocelyn’s incredibly buttery peach bars! With peaches at their peak, these bars look like the perfect combination of tender fruit and a rich, crumbly topping. They’re ideal for a summer dessert or a delightful afternoon snack.
- This gorgeous succotash…with lobster looks absolutely divine. This elevated classic side dish, featuring sweet corn, lima beans, and the addition of succulent lobster, is something that needs to happen in my kitchen immediately. It’s a sophisticated take on a comforting staple.
- Billy created a delightful peach rose quick jam, which perfectly fulfills my long-standing dreams of jam-making while also taking into account my admittedly short patience. The elegant hint of rose combined with fresh peaches sounds like a sublime spread for toast or pastries. Why, thank you, Billy, for this perfect recipe!
- I just spotted this incredible and vibrant Kung Pao cauliflower on FoodGawker! It looks like a fantastic vegetarian alternative to the classic Kung Pao chicken, packed with flavor and a satisfying texture. This is definitely on my list for a weeknight dinner.
- Um, how amazing does this smoked sugar ice cream with fig butter swirl sound?! It’s incredibly creative and unique, blending smoky, sweet, and fruity notes into what promises to be an extraordinary frozen treat. I’m always impressed by such innovative flavor combinations.
- Todd consistently makes the most beautiful cocktails ever. His latest banana daiquiri not only looks stunning but also comes with a DIY banana rum recipe. This is perfect for elevating your home bartending skills and impressing guests with fresh, tropical flavors.
- Learning the best way to preserve fresh herbs is always a valuable tip, and this article provides exactly that. Keeping herbs fresh longer is a game-changer for any home cook, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor in everyday cooking.
- These green beans with ginger and lime are absolutely my kind of side dish. The bright, zesty flavors of ginger and lime promise to elevate simple green beans into something truly special and incredibly delicious.
- Are you familiar with Sarah’s fantastic dessert blog The Sugar Hit? It’s truly amazing! I was thrilled to receive her new (and soon-to-be-released!) cookbook this week, and I can honestly say it is one of the coolest and most inspiring dessert cookbooks I’ve ever seen. I practically read through the entire thing cover to cover, mesmerized by the creative recipes and vibrant photography. I’ll be sharing a recipe from the book in the next few weeks, but in the meantime, I highly recommend you absolutely pre-order it. You won’t be disappointed!
From the Archives: A Year Ago in the Kitchen
It’s always fun to look back and see what was cooking in my kitchen around this time last year. One dish that always stands out and remains a firm favorite is:
- My go-to Farmer’s Market Hash! This vibrant and hearty breakfast option is something I truly love. Its beauty lies in its versatility – you can easily switch up the ingredients with whatever fresh, seasonal vegetables you discover at your local farmer’s market this weekend. It’s a delicious way to start the day, packed with flavor and wholesome goodness, often crowned with perfectly poached eggs.
As this incredible weekend winds down and a new week begins, I’m filled with gratitude for these moments of joy, discovery, and connection. From the exhilarating aerial displays to the rich flavors of Chicago’s dining scene, and most importantly, the cherished company of family, it’s been a weekend to remember. Here’s to more adventures, more delicious food, and more shared memories!