In the summer of 2013, I moved to Chicago one month after graduating from college. I didn't no any one, I didn't have a full time job, and I was totally new to the city and was on a mission to just figure it out.
I spent my early days exploring neighborhoods, trying new restaurants, and searching for things to do in Chicago that felt fun, accessible, and actually worth my time. What I realized quickly? The best experiences weren’t always the easiest to find.
Along the way, I became the go-to person for friends, visitors, and even strangers looking for recommendations—from hidden gems to can’t-miss spots around the city.
The Haute Seeker grew from that experience. What started as a personal outlet turned into a Chicago blog focused on helping others discover what to do, where to go, and how to experience the city beyond the obvious. Here, you’ll find curated guides to Chicago restaurants, events, neighborhoods, and cultural experiences—along with travel inspiration for exploring beyond the city. From weekend plans and seasonal events to food spots and local favorites, everything is designed to help you navigate Chicago with a little more ease and a lot more intention.
My goal is to make discovering Chicago feel simple—whether you’re planning your first visit, looking for new things to do this weekend, or just trying to experience more of the city you already live in.