In this week’s Seek Like a Local, Pooja Naik shares her favorite restaurant to snag a lobster roll spot, family-friendly activities, and the best shopping district that’s earned the right to be called, “magnificent” in Chicago.
Explore Chicago Like Pooja Naik
Pooja Naik is a Chicago-based food and lifestyle content creator. She is also the founder of Organizing With You, Inc. and grew up in India. Pooja is a passionate Buddhist who loves food, traveling, and enjoys experiencing both together if she can. She shares her love for all things delicious on her Instagram page Chicago Pescetarian.
What are some family-friendly activities that you enjoy experiencing in Chicago?
My favorite thing is to eat. Surprise, surprise! I love trying new restaurants and new food experiences. In the summer, food festivals are my go-to hangouts, most are kid-friendly. If I had several hours to show someone around the city, I’d have them visit Museum Campus, try deep dish pizza (if they haven’t), and take a River or Lake boat tour!
Where are the best shops in Chicago?
As cliched as it is, Mag Mile! So many options on Michigan Avenue stores. White House Black Market always has the perfect clothes and fit for me!
Who has the best seafood in Chicago?
I love a good Lobster Roll. Luke’s Lobster hands-down has the best ones. I believe they got over 70 locations nationwide. I love the location in the Chicago Loop!
What community organizations do you like to support?
I highly regard and have been involved with Pratham USA, which aims to address gaps in the Indian education system and, Upwardly Global which tries to eliminate employment barriers for refugees and immigrants.
Who are your favorite artists—from music to muralists?
When it comes to music, I have very eclectic taste. For example, I love Pearl Jam but I’m also an avid Chance the Rapper fan. For murals, my favorites are Rushmore by Kerry James Marshall and Chicago Has My Heart by Amoz Wright, Sarah Wilson, and Skylar Sun.
Seek Like A Local, and discover things to do, places to dine, and more of what the city of Chicago has to offer this week. Check out previous guides from influential Chicago locals here.
