Alex Linardos is Mr. South Loop. The full-time Southwest flight attendant just celebrated two years of his blog this week, a pandemic project meant to bring more attention to the small businesses and attractions in the area.
Ahead of the Printers Row Lit Fest this weekend — where City Cast Chicago’s Jacoby Cochran is performing (!) — here are some spots to check out.
Something to eat: “Honeyberry Cafe. My personal favorite is the mile high skillet: eggs, hashbrowns, peppers, cheese, and ham. Plus, it comes with a side of pancakes! Make sure you upgrade to the specialty pancakes: The cinnamon roll pancakes are delicious!”
Something to see: “Museum Campus. The 57-acre park houses the Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Soldier Field. My personal favorite is the Shedd! Make sure to stop by and see the penguins.”
Something to do: “Tight Ship Comedy at Half Sour is a standup show every Thursday featuring up-and-coming comedians from across the country — get there early to secure a seat!”+ Tell us about YOUR neighborhood! What should we eat, see, and do near you? Fill out this form, and we'll share with other readers.
Get to Know South Loop with Mr. South Loop

Sidney Madden

Shedd Aquarium, Alex Linardos celebrating two years of his blog Mr. South Loop, and brunch at Honeyberry Cafe. (Jacoby Cochran / City Cast Chicago; Alex Linardos / Mr. South Loop)
Share article

Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.
Neighborhood Guides
Your Guide to May 2026
May kicked off with a May Day jolt, and I expect the energy will stay high.
Where to Read in Chicago
It’s National Library Week through April 25 — which is coincidentally Independent Bookstore Day! There’s an official crawl across Chicago...
Celebrate 420 at These Chicago Dispensaries
It’s been a little over 6 years since recreational marijuana was legalized in Illinois. At the time, Gov. JB Pritzker called it the “most...
Is Avondale Really That Cool?
We investigated Avondale ourselves, and think that Time Out might be onto something.
Get to Know Bronzeville
Check out this guide on what to see, eat, and do in this historic Chicago neighborhood.

Walk Around the Bottom of Western With Me!
My stroll to the bottom of Western Avenue took me through West Morgan Park, Kennedy Park, and Beverly Woods.
Wander Through Ford City Mall With Me
Once a haven for young mall rats, Ford City Mall may soon become an industrial park. But it's not gone yet.
Scooter Another Mile Along Western With Me
Today, we’re zooming into the Tri-Taylor Historic District, starting on Madison Street and scooting to Roosevelt Road.
The latest in Chicago
Take This Week's Chicago News Trivia Quiz
How closely were you paying attention to this week's current events? Test yourself in our weekly trivia quiz.
Chicago’s Indoor/Outdoor Bars
Here are some of our favorite bars that offer outdoor patios to grab a drink.
Jim’s and the History of the Maxwell Street Polish
After nearly 90 years in the Maxwell Street Area, Jim’s Original is moving to Pilsen. The stand popularized the Maxwell Street Polish.
New Spots To Dine & Drink in Chicago
Chicago has no shortage of good places to eat around town. Here are some of the bar, restaurant, and café openings we're watching.
Chicago Bridges Quiz
Think you know Chicago bridges? Test your knowledge!
Welcome to The Belmont and Decibel — AKA New Berlin
Decibel is now open in the former Berlin space on Belmont. Comparisons are inevitable.
Chicago Was — Is? — a Magic Town
The Hand & The Eye is a new venue marketing Chicago-style magic. But what is Chicago-style magic?
The End of an Era For Lincolnwood Town Center
Lincolnwood Town Center shuts down April 30 — depending who you ask. I went to the mall to check things out for myself.
