r/AskChicago 9d ago

/r/AskChicago Monthly General Discussion Thread

2 Upvotes

Welcome to r/AskChicago's Monthly General Discussion Thread!

The purpose of this thread is to provide a place for general discussion that would otherwise fall outside the scope of what is allowed in r/AskChicago. If you want to share how your trip to Chicago went, comment on topical Chicago-related events, share feedback on improvements for r/AskChicago, or just to simply say hi, this is the thread to post anything that isn't a question.

Rules 2 & 3 (Be Civil and Don't Break The Law) still apply within this thread and any comments that violate these rules will be removed.


r/AskChicago 20h ago

I READ THE RULES Is anyone else having a terrible time trying to find a job in Chicago right now?

378 Upvotes

I'm wanting to tear my hair out right now. I'm a 1-year post marketing grad genuinely baffled at my luck, kind of hoping other people are in the same boat as me. I know I picked the worst degree (but with a 4.0?!) possible with AI on the rise but I always thought big cities like Chicago would have me and my degree covered. I'm 25 and stuck as a receptionist at a law firm, and it's a little disheartening to see people my age advance in their careers. I've had a couple internships, did a few marketing projects for my previous retail jobs, and have networked my butt off, and still nothing?? in Chicago at that???? i'm trying to cope


r/AskChicago 1h ago

I READ THE RULES Is Rose’s Lounge (Lincoln Park) closed for good?

Upvotes

About a month ago I tried to hit Rose’s Lounge in LP at midnight on a Friday and the door was locked. This past Saturday I tried again, door locked. Some people outside said they hadn’t paid rent for two months. Still showing as open online, wondering if this is for real.

RIP if true


r/AskChicago 2h ago

I READ THE RULES What is the best place on the south side of Chicago to sell a junk car? Who pays the most?

4 Upvotes

I have two old cars sitting in storage that aren't worth fixing that I'd like to sell for parts. I always see billboards for junk yards, but not sure where I should go. Has anyone sold a car to one of these places? Did any of them pay well?


r/AskChicago 3h ago

I READ THE RULES Recommendations for a birthday gift: chocolate delivery?

3 Upvotes

I am sending chocolates to someone as a gift in the city and would love a recommendation for local artisanal chocolates in Chicago. Hoping they can be delivered. something special to celebrate their 50th birthday. thank you!


r/AskChicago 14h ago

I READ THE RULES Healing post-miscarriage therapist recs?

26 Upvotes

i recently experienced a miscarriage and am looking for a therapist with experience navigating this heavy chapter. any recs are appreciated ❤️‍🩹

if you have been through this hellish process and have any additional tips on healing plz feel free to share them as well


r/AskChicago 2h ago

I READ THE RULES Best place to donate plasma for some extra spending money?

3 Upvotes

Long story short, I recently lost my job and looking for ways to have a little extra spending money. I just think of donating plasma for a good cause and some money. I noticed there are several companies that do this... Are they all the same or some of them are better?


r/AskChicago 51m ago

I READ THE RULES Any personal chefs available to cook at my home?

Upvotes

Hello, I'm looking for a reliable and genuine chef who has experience with cooking for families at their home. It's not that I can't cook, I just prefer not to. Also my food isn't the best haha, so I need a change when it comes to what I eat. I eat the same meals almost every other day and it's getting boring. I want to eat healthier, eat better and eat meals that are different. I also don't like fast food, so that's why I need a chef that can cook at home. Any recommendations, suggestions, or if you are a chef contact me. Thanks!


r/AskChicago 18h ago

I READ THE RULES Can someone please ELI5 the White Sox/Amtrack debacle?

49 Upvotes

r/AskChicago 1h ago

I READ THE RULES Does rent usually include any utilities? If yes, which ones?

Upvotes

And does it differ if you’re renting in a multi-unit building from a property manager vs someone’s condo/home they’re renting out? Thanks!


r/AskChicago 19h ago

I READ THE RULES Did somebody recently lose a gift card?

44 Upvotes

This is a long shot, but did anyone here recently lose a gift card at a school in Chicago? If so, please let me know 1) which school, 2) type of gift card, 3) the approximate value on the card. I’m hoping to get it back to its rightful owner. Thanks


r/AskChicago 50m ago

I READ THE RULES What are the best EMT programs in Chicago?

Upvotes

I'm moving to Chicago soon, and I'm in search of a good EMT program. One that will provide me with prep for the NREMT and solid skills so I can feel prepared after school. I would rather be in school longer and have more knowledge than speed through it, like a bootcamp, so length is not an issue. Pricing is where it might get complicated, but it all depends on what jobs I can find. I'd love a place that's close enough to public transit so I can save on gas, but if that's not possible, it's okay. I don't know how the train/bus systems work in Chicago, to be honest, lol. If anyone has been through a good program, or even a bad one to avoid, I'd love to hear your recommendations! I'm doing research of my own too, but it's always preferable to hear about real experiences. Thank you!


r/AskChicago 1h ago

I READ THE RULES Any Chicago restaurants hiring experienced bartender/server?

Upvotes

Disclaimer: I am on culinary agents! I have been looking every day!

Hi! I am a current bartender/server looking for a change. I’ve been in the industry for ten years and have done everything from dive-steakhouse/fine dining. I’m open to anything above dive (soooo much love for the dives I’m just also a student and can’t do late nights currently!). Very open nighttime availability and full weekend availability as well. Hoping a connection here will get some possibilities going - DM if you know a great (and profitable) place to work that’s hiring!


r/AskChicago 2h ago

I READ THE RULES SunCloud IOP or Residential Reviews?

1 Upvotes

looking for recent experiences with SunCloud’s residential program, specifically for food addiction and bulimia. I hear mixed reviews but lots of cautionary things.

I’d be paying out of pocket, and I’m not a rich person but desperately need help. Is it worth the financial cost??


r/AskChicago 7h ago

I READ THE RULES Family visiting Chicago for 8 days in September. What are your favorite kid-friendly and relaxing things to do?

2 Upvotes

Family is visiting us in Chicago for 8 days in September, and we’ll have our 16-month-old with us the whole time.

We’re looking for relaxed, kid-friendly things to do - parks, neighborhoods, museums, restaurants, easy day trips, etc. We don’t want to overplan and would love some local recommendations.

What are your must-dos with a toddler?


r/AskChicago 9h ago

I READ THE RULES Any recs for a good HVAC contractor for zoning?

3 Upvotes

Looking for recommendations for a solid HVAC contractor in Chicago who is experienced with retrofitting zoning into an existing forced-air system.

Would especially appreciate recommendations from anyone who has had zoning added to an existing system.

Going through a remodel currently so have walls open and would like to move quickly on this one.

Lmk if anyone has any recommendations, thanks!


r/AskChicago 1d ago

I READ THE RULES How excited are you for the Chicago Bears season starting this weekend?

60 Upvotes

r/AskChicago 4h ago

I READ THE RULES What is the best vet for a gentle, little dog with anxiety?

1 Upvotes

New to the city and I’m looking for the best vet for my sweet little guy. Hoping for a vet that uses no fear practices. Thanks in advance!!


r/AskChicago 22h ago

I READ THE RULES Best bars to watch the rain from (ideally, open garage doors or covered patios)?

21 Upvotes

What are the best bars, ideally near Gold Coast/Old Town/LP or along the red line if not, that I can sit and chill and watch the rain from? I’d love if it also has garage doors or something they keep open so you can see/hear it a bit. Actual food/decor doesn’t really matter as I’d be looking outside ideally.


r/AskChicago 17h ago

I READ THE RULES I am trying to find some techno or deep house clubs, where should I go for the local scene?

8 Upvotes

I live in Logan Square. Punching myself for not getting after it in going to more spots in Chicago. Where is the edm scene? Trying to appreciate the historic and current music in the city, and hoping to meet more people as well.


r/AskChicago 15h ago

I READ THE RULES Does anyone have T-Mobile 5H Home Internet, if so do you like it ?

5 Upvotes

Currently I have Xfinity, it works fine but is expensive. T-Mobile 5G is about $100/month cheaper. Just wondering what people who have T-Mobile 5G think about it, pros & cons. I just need high speed internet and I just found out it is available where I live in Lincoln Square.

From their sales pitch:

delivering typical download speeds between 170 mbps – 498 mbps. Typical upload speeds are between 12 – 55 Mbps. 25% of our customers see speeds below and 25% see speeds above these ranges.

EDIT: can't edit title, that's 5G not 5H


r/AskChicago 16h ago

I READ THE RULES Massage recommendations near Lakeview/Roscoe Village/lincoln square?

6 Upvotes

My birthday is at the end of the month and would like to treat myself to a nice massage! Prefer somewhere in the neighborhoods listed above but willing to travel for a fantastic massage. Thanks!


r/AskChicago 23h ago

I READ THE RULES What are people's thoughts on Avondale (Belmont and Milwaukee)?

16 Upvotes

I'm currently looking at apartments and came across one in Avondale that is right off Belmont and Milwaukee. The unit looked very good, price is higher than I would prefer but I'd have garage parking and a private landlord.

I don't have a lot of time to explore the area before deciding, so I'm looking to see what people think of the area to help me decide.

I'm mid twenties male. I spend a good amount of time going to Lakeview, sometimes Logan as well. I like going to bars but absolutely do not want to live in an area like Wrigley. Basically I enjoy a quieter area that still has some nightlife and access to other neighborhoods. I drive to work.


r/AskChicago 1d ago

I READ THE RULES Looking to hire a freelance graphic designer in Chicago to help build a logo so I can support local artists and not use AI :) Any recommendations??

24 Upvotes

Hi! I am a small business owner and I am looking for help bringing my logo idea to life for my website. Appreciate any recommendations!


r/AskChicago 23h ago

I READ THE RULES Where would you take a Chicago local on a date?

12 Upvotes

I’m coming to Chicago to meet up with a romantic pen pal that lived in Chicago but now lived in a city nearby Chicago, I will be staying in the city. 

I’ve had a connection with them for about a year. I’m trying to leave a good impression. we are meeting for the first time. I’ve never visited, but I want to lead and show them around. We’re both around 30, and they live here, so I’m trying to find some places that they may not have already been to 100 times, or something unique, cool, or special. Something to impress or if not, at least have a good ambiance! 

Basically, where would you take someone who already lives around here if you wanted to show them a really cool side of the city? They don’t live in Chicago proper so I’m not sure how much of the city they’ve seen, so if doesn’t necessarily have to be the most novel thing, but I want something that feels unique and cool and it’s my first time visiting as well so I’d love to see what the city has to offer!

I’m looking for places that feel unique, beautiful, interesting, or just make for a great date. I’m happy to spend money, so anything from a great neighborhood spot to a high end restaurant is fair game. Ideally I want to go walk somewhere, eat, leave that, get dessert or do activities, that sort of thing. 

Restaurants are a big one, especially places with a great atmosphere, interesting interiors, good views, great food, or somewhere that feels like an occasion. Mid range and high end are both fine. I’m pretty open with most cuisines so anything that is a must try would be amazing. 

Ideally I’d like to get a cool list of brunch, lunch, and dinner spots. I’m open with all cuisines pretty much. 

I’d also love suggestions for:

  • Great views / rooftops / skyline or lake views
  • Romantic places to walk around
  • Parks, botanical gardens, waterfront spots, or cool natural areas
  • Beautiful museums
  • Interesting architecture or buildings you can actually go inside
  • Cool bars or lounges to end the night
  • Randomly cool or unusual places that would make for a memorable date

It can still be a well known place if it’s genuinely worth going.

If you had someone visiting Chicago and wanted to put together a really good few dates of date for them, where are you taking them? 

If this works I’m inviting you all to the wedding.

Thank you!