Articles By: Gene Wagendorf III

Gene Wagendorf III
Gene is a writer who has spent his entire quarter century of life as a resident of Chicago. When not exploring the city he can be found wandering flea markets and garage sales or having a cigarette between classes at Northeastern Illinois University, where he hopes to acquire a degree in the next quarter century. His favorite smells are old books and bowling alleys. His poetry (how embarrassing!) can be found in issues of Kill Poet, Ditch, Word Riot, O Sweet Flowery Roses and Vowel Movements.
C2E2 2012: Chicago Gets Its Geek On

C2E2 2012: Chicago Gets Its Geek On

What’s got Daredevil, John Cusack, C3P0, scantily-clad women, a bubble show and great deals on graphic novels? The Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo! Check out this recap of all 3 days of C2E2!

Ethyl’s Party (Bar, Chinatown)

Located south of Chinatown’s main strip, Ethyl’s Party is one of Chicago’s greatest divey little secrets. Home to good people, cheap beer and Blackhawks fans, there’s no better place to drink until you see ghosts.

Las Palmas (Restaurant, Wicker Park)

A standout Mexican restaurant in the heart of Wicker Park, Las Palmas offers intimate dining and an outdoor patio, the perfect place for a date or a giddy Margarita Night.

Wolff’s Flea Markets

Ever dream of a magical place where you can buy samurai swords, fresh fruit, vintage beer steins and comic books? Wolff’s Flea Markets has all that and tons, tons more.

Malört: The “Unrelenting” Local Liquor

Malört has long been the drink by which Chicagoans test their mettle. Got what it takes to throw one back and keep it down?

Chicago’s Windy City Rollers

Chicago’s premier all-female flat-track roller derby league. A fluid mix of brutality and poetry.

Hagen’s Fish Market: Seafood is Lovefood

Hagen’s Fish Market: Seafood is Lovefood

Hagen’s Fish Market has operated in Portage Park since 1946 and is home to Chicago’s last natural hardwood smokehouse. They sell a variety of fresh, smoked and fried seafood, all prepared with a care and skill unrivaled in the city.

Declan’s Irish Pub (Bar, Old Town)

Born in ’72, Declan’s Irish pub is a great place to catch some Oklahoma football or have a quiet weeknight beer.

The Patio Theater: Portage Park’s Movie Palace

The Patio Theater: Portage Park’s Movie Palace

The Patio Theater, an awe-inspiring old movie palace, is home to a completely restored lobby, state-of-the-art sound and one of Chicago’s largest single screens — all for for five bucks.

The Continental (Bar, Humboldt Park)

A 4am bar in Humboldt Park, The Continental has comfortable booths, good music and an attentive staff.

Montrose Harbor: The North Side’s Natural Playground

Montrose Harbor: The North Side’s Natural Playground

Located at the north end of Lincoln Park, Montrose Harbor has a little something for everyone: swimming, fishing, sledding, bird watching, a dog beach, a great restaurant and tons of bunnies!

The California Clipper (Bar & Music Venue, Humboldt Park)

Looking for a bar slightly off the beaten path that has great music, excellent cocktails and lots of red lights? Welcome to The California Clipper.

Fishing in Chicago

A primer on fishing in the Windy City. From snagging in ponds and casting out in the lake to great river spots and even ice fishing, this article will tell you where to get supplies and where to fish once you’ve got ‘em.

Lollapalooza 2011 Preview

Lollapalooza 2011 Preview

Check out this preview of the 2011 Lollapalooza festival, complete with set times, stage locations and tons of music!