Dining Chicago Writer Hosts Book Party

This weekend, Dining Chicago's very own Matt Kirouac is poised to host a book release party for The HUNT Guides: Chicago, a project he's been working on for the better part of a year. The event, dubbed "Bubbles, Brunch & Books," takes place at RM Champagne Salon in the West Loop from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. for a leisurely brunch time affair with the author. 

 

Some background on the project: The HUNT Guides: Chicago is part of an international book series from Gatehouse Publishing. The Singapore-based company originated overseas with its series, which functions as a glorified guide book collection curated by local writers and designed to engage both tourists and residents. After rapid success in markets like Hong Kong, Singapore, Paris, and London, it was time to expand to the U.S. Early editions have been written for New York City, Austin, New Orleans, and San Francisco, with Kirouac helming the Chicago version. 

The HUNT Guides: Chicago is a neighborhood-focused book consisting of nine neighborhood chapters, each featuring roughly 10 venues ranging from restaurants and bars to galleries, museums, shops, parks, and much more. It's a thorough, unique, irreverent approach to the city guide template, filled with personal anecdotes and insider tips that make the book seem more like an amplified journal or love letter to Chicago. With such a wide geographic and cultural range, the book is filled with interesting and offbeat spots to explore, which is ideal for tourists looking to venture beyond the downtown norm, and equally great for locals itching to uncover new gems in their own city. Neighborhood chapters include Andersonville, Lincoln Square, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Logan Square, River North, West Loop, Pilsen, and Hyde Park. Additionally, further themed chapters cover the likes of wintertime activities, rooftop bars, museums, and lakefront spots. There's also a nifty 48-hours guide in the front of the book that functions as a concise hit-list of must-visit spots in Chicago if you're only in the city for two days. 

The book is available for purchase via Amazon here, and tickets to the release party are $20 per person, inclusive of bubbly and a brunch buffet ($30 with book). Purchase tickets to the event here. 

Good Luck Matt!
- David Lissner