Taste of Chicago

I spent much of this afternoon at the Taste of Chicago. Lately, I haven't really been a fan of going to events which such a large crowd, but I thought why the heck not. In addition to being a great place to sample some of Chicago's ethnic restaurants, event is also the perfect spot for people watching. Plus it's also usually a great place to hear live music for free. While there, my friend and I saw a great performance by Vance Kelly and the Back Street Blues Band. After they ended around 6:45pm, we went to check out the other stages and was surprised to learn that there was only a country and western band on the "don't mess with Texas" stage and they were in the process of wrapping up their performance. After trying to rack our brain on where else to hear live music without paying a huge cover, I suggested we head to the Grape Street Piano Bar. I've been there a few times before, and always have a good time as the piano player Arturo gives a great performance. He takes probably one too many breaks, but hey -- they have no cover. So in you’re ever in the Streeterville neighborhood, highly recommend that you check them out.