The Pour House - On East Bellevue - Best Burger I've had...EVER...ANYWHERE!!!

O'Rourke's Pub - W. North Ave. (just a couple blocks west of Wells) - Best Irish pub in Chicago! Still remember the morning after headaches from swilling too many pitchers of Half and Half (Draft & Guinness). It was owned by a guy named Jerry who was also the bartender. Over the years I saw his hair go from black to grey. The place finally closed when he retired.

Cheese place on N. State Pkwy. (just north of Division) - Don't remember the name of the place, but it was operated by Stauffer's. They served a cheese board of 4 or 7 items, and a sliced apple was included. You got to pick from a great choice of cheeses and pate. Fondue was also on the menu. Great place for a leisurely, light dinner and a glass of wine. Remember spending some great Friday nights there!

And of course the original "gone, but not forgotten" (drum roll)....RIVERVIEW PARK!!! - This was a park with CHARACTER...unlike the sterile theme parks today!

And, since they earned their money by charging per ride, not a flat admission fee like the parks today, it was in their economic self-interest to get you on the ride ASAP. I don't think I ever waited more than 10 minutes to get on a ride! And you could always ride again without leaving the ride, for a reduced admission.

Another advantage, since it was in the city (Western & Belmont), you could get there quickly and cheaply on the CTA. You didn't need a car!