The South Loop has seen a flurry of bar and restaurant openings in the past year and a half, and four of them happen to be on the west side of Michigan Avenue between Roosevelt Road and 16th Street. If you haven't paid these bustling blocks a visit, let this mini-map serve as your guide.
Karamela Coffee, Sweets & Crepes
1250 S. Michigan Ave. 312-322-0400
Opened in: October
This just-opened cafe offers Julius Meinl espresso and a pastry case full of sweets for a quick-grab snack as well as crepes, sandwiches and salads.
Waffles
1400 S. Michigan Ave. 312-854-8572
Opened in: August 2011
Waffles featuring flavors both sweet (green tea, strawberry) and savory (meatballs, short ribs) are the main event at this breakfast shop. Next door neighbor Square One not only shares the same street address, but also serves Waffles' namesake breakfast item on its weekend brunch menu.
Square One
1400 S. Michigan Ave. 312-786-1750
Opened in: August
Why wait for a bartender? This wine bar is the only place in the city where you can dispense your own wine, thanks to a self-serve soda fountain-style machine.
City Tavern
1416 S. Michigan Ave. 312-663-1278
Opened in: June
At this 18th century tavern-inspired restaurant, new dishes are being rotated onto the menu courtesy of chef Jackie Shen, whom you may recognize from her time at Red Light or Chicago Cut Steakhouse.