Many of you might ask yourself why in the world would I leave beautiful Hawaii in March to attend ACHE’s annual Congress in frigid Chicago? That can be summed up in one word…FOOD! When the weather is so cold, what could be better than indulging in some of the wonderful restaurants Chicago has to offer? This year’s hotel was within close proximity to a wonderful Prixe Fix Spanish Tapas restaurant called Mercat a La Planxa. A variety of small plate delicacies was followed at the end of the already filling meal with a huge plate of paella loaded with pork, beef, and seafood. 

 

 

Another amazing option is Duck, Duck, Goat. In their words they serve “reasonably authentic Chinese food.” I would say they do way better than that! Here we experienced the most amazing desert. This was a delicate crepe wrapped a small bit of vanilla ice cream with delectable fried outer layer and drizzled with hoisin sauce and sprinkled with cilantro. The mix of sweet and savory was indescribably perfect. 

 

 

After a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago a quick walk across the street takes you to The Gage where you can enjoy their “too large to put your mouth around” Bison burger. Before our seeing the Broadway play Hamilton, we chose a quick dinner at Nando's Peri-Peri Chicken, a chain restaurant that began its roots in Johannesburg, South Africa. They serve delicious, fast, food infused with the peri-peri pepper at every turn. Nando’s was so fast we had time for a quick desert so ran next door to The Goddess and the Baker. 

 

 

You can see that there is no shortage for amazing food or cultural events while attending Congress. The week is so full of networking opportunities both during and after the formal courses, that a plan for the week prior to getting there is important. 

 

 

If you are a planner, and a foodie, I have one more suggestion. Do your research early and make a reservation at one of the 22 Michelin Star restaurants such as Topolobampo while in the Windy City. The week will go fast and the options feel limitless. So as you are picking your classes next year also spend some time on your extra-curricular planning. Your time networking at Congress does not end with the last class so make sure you schedule some gym time too while you are there and enjoy!