(from chicagotribune.com)

You see, I am a Chicago red light camera, and everyone hates me. I mean everyone. The people who accelerate through the yellow at Belmont and Sheridan and end up with not only a hefty fine, but also a grainy photo in the mail that looks like they’re being blackmailed. The taxpayers who have to foot the $40,000 bill for the over 400 tickets racked up by CTA drivers in the last two years. And especially by my ex: Redflex Traffic Systems Inc., the red light camera vendor that’s being forced to shell out $20 million to settle their $2 billion bribery scandal which involved paying off a (former) high-level city transportation manager. Who also hates me. It’s pretty lonely being a red light camera, despite the fact that we’re literally everywhere, all the time, constantly up your butt and in your business, not giving a hoot about what you’re late for or where you’re going. (MORE HERE)

(from chicagotribune.com)

We’ve all been there. As you lay your head on your pillow at 3 a.m., thanking your lucky stars you managed to make it home alive, you know, in the back of your drunk mind, that in a matter of hours, you will wake in supreme misery.  But those in Chicago whose careers center around the devil’s liquid know a thing or two about staving off a hangover. Take this “hair of the dog” guide to heart this weekend and live your best life. (MORE HERE)

Dylan Winckler
Bar manager at Jerry’s Sandwiches
“My girlfriend and I have this thing called ‘the spread.’ It’s a cup of coffee, a glass of OJ, a bourbon bloody mary and a small side beer. We usually hit a place with a solid brunch and a good bourbon list. The coffee wakes us up, the OJ rehydrates us and the bloody mary and the beer brings us back a little bit.”

Elyse Fuller
Beverage director at Nacional 27
“A couple years ago, I created a cocktail with a blueberry mint julep. I made a mojito out of it. That’s my go-to because it has the antioxidants and everything you need in there. I start with a blueberry honey syrup (blueberry, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon and thyme) and then I muddle some mint with lemon. Then, I add … rye and coconut water—from the coconut, but Vida Coconut Water is fine. The ginger, the blueberry, the coconut—all of it together is going to bring you back to life.”

*Ask for it at Tallboy Taco. 

Caitlin Laman
Beverage director at Mezcaleria Las Flores
“A pretty standard go-to is a michelada, which usually works for me, but when it’s really rough I go with a gin fizz. You’ll want to look for something with salt and acid, and something low-alcohol—like vermouth—to slowly ease you into feeling like a human again.”

We’ve all been there—the night got late, the drinks were free-flowing and that last one put you over the edge. Now, you’re hurting and on the hunt for something to abate the pain. We feel you, so it seemed like a good time to share some of our favorite post-drinking restoratives all-but-made to cure overindulgence. From greasy burgers to rib-sticking dumplings and tummy-soothing soups, consider this your hangover’s best friend. (MORE HERE)

(from chicagoist.com)

Fatso’s Last Stand

When it’s hard to drag yourself out of a self-inflicted fog, head to ketchup and mustard-colored Fatso’s Last Stand for a no-fuss double char-dog and fries. This no-frills Ukrainian Village haunt features plenty of outdoor seating so you can breathe in some fresh air, as well as options like fried shrimp, smashburgers and a thick-cut, griddled salami sandwich that are up to the task.

Fatso’s Last Stand is at 2258 W. Chicago Ave.

Don Pedro Carnitas

While it won’t score high marks for its fluorescent-lit, bare-bones décor or its small, accident-waiting-to-happen parking lot, Don Pedro Carnitas more than makes up for its setting with a near-perfect, by-the-pound rendition of its namesake as well as juicy, sloppy beef barbacoa. Snake your way between the dual lines up front and snag a rickety table, where you can quickly prep tacos from the platter of meat put before you, topping them with pico de gallo and a spurt of lime.

Don Pedro Carnitas is at 1113 W. 18th St.

via Ruby’s Facebook

Ruby’s Fast Food

Hit the cash station before heading to Ruby’s Fast Food, a counter-serve Filipino fave with a cafeteria-style, steam-table approach called turo-turo (point point). Although temptations abound, you’d be wise to settle on the zingy chicken adobo, deep-fried lechon kawali and slightly sweet spaghetti stippled with hot dogs. Or the fried rice. Or the shatteringly crispy pata. Or the tapsilog. You get the idea.

Ruby’s Fast Food is at 3740 W. Montrose Ave.

Johnnie’s Beef

Day in and day out, locals shuffle through the line at Johnnie’s Beef for one good reason: a perfect, destination-worthy rendition of the Chicago-style classic. Do yourself (and your aching head) a favor and make it a beef and sausage combo, juicy, topped with sweet and hot peppers — plus a hydrating cup of lemon Italian ice. Just be sure to have your order ready since indecision at this legendary stand is met with indignation at best.

Johnnie’s Beef is at 7500 W. North Ave., Elmwood Park.

Longman and Eagle

Longman & Eagle

Hip, inviting and farm-to-table in approach, Longman & Eagle delivers comfort in the form of a pseudo-classic two eggs up platter. Only here, eggs come with house-made maple-glazed Spam, crispy potatoes and an ice-cold PBR. Pork belly Benedict, sunny-side duck hash and fried chicken and waffles are among the alternatives. Adding to the appeal, a handful of rooms upstairs are built for those who need to sleep it off.

Longman & Eagle is at 2657 N. Kedzie Ave.