🫘 Our new format is out: Spilled Beans!
And an exclusive promo code for you!
Good morning, Cool Beans!
Our first issue with the new format is here, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you! This week, there’s a lot happening — from Chicago Electronic Music Conference to EXPO Chicago for all the art lovers out there. Our goal is to offer a 360-degree selection of experiences so you can enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer and create memories worth keeping. Enjoy!
Find the coolest picks for Chicago, this week:
🤤 If you are craving something new: A few weeks ago we tried Bar Mar in the Loop and we really enjoyed it! The food was good, and the cocktails were even better. A standout on the menu is the hamachi cone, filled with smoked hamachi, sesame mayo, and crisp radish — the perfect bite of flavor and texture. But the real showstopper was the Air Margarita with Mezcal — a smoky, citrusy twist on the classic, topped with a light, foamy cloud that makes every sip both fun and unforgettable. Whether you're in the mood for creative cocktails or beautifully crafted plates, Bar Mar is definitely worth a spot on your list.
🕺🏻 If your feet can’t stop (won’t stop) moving like Michael Jackson: Chicago Electronic Music Conference weekend is almost here — and we’re kicking things off with a proper warm-up! Join us this Friday, April 25, at Podlaise Club from 9 PM to 2 AM for the official CEMC Pre-Party. Michael Serafini — owner of the legendary Gramaphone Records and SmartBar resident — will be behind the decks, serving up a night of deep grooves, house classics, and fresh underground sounds as we bring together Chicago’s electronic music lovers, creators, and curious souls under one roof. No tickets needed, just show up with your good vibe!
🎤 If live music is your vibe: Zoofunkyou, a Chicago-based band known for their high-energy blend of psychedelic blues, funk, and improvisation, is performing this coming Saturday at Martyrs’. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just looking to discover something new, this is the kind of night that promises good vibes, great music, and plenty of reasons to hit the dance floor. Click here to buy your ticket!
🛋️ If the couch is calling your name: This week, we’d like to share a true gem of a movie that doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves — My Blueberry Nights by Wong Kar-wai. The film captures that same dreamy, melancholic atmosphere as his earlier works (In the Mood for Love, Chungking Express), but this time it’s set against the backdrop of American diners and road trips instead of Hong Kong’s backstreets. The way it uses food, especially that untouched blueberry pie, as a subtle symbol of longing and connection is simple yet powerful — and you all know how much we love connections! Starring a young Jude Law and Norah Jones, this movie is the perfect choice for a relaxing, introspective night.
🎭 If you feel artsy: If you have passion for art, attending EXPO CHICAGO is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant art scene. From April 24–27, 2025, Navy Pier's Festival Hall will host over 170 galleries from 36 countries, showcasing contemporary and modern artworks from both emerging and established artists. It's not just an art fair—it's a cultural experience that offers a glimpse into global creativity right in the heart of Chicago. We already got the tickets and going Sunday, grab yours here!
🤔 Still not feeling it? Check these others out:
On Wednesday April 23rd, some of us will be at Charlie’s the to learn some line dancing at the sound of “MMMBop” by the Hanson, organized by Second City Country Dance Association (SCCDA). Their free line dancing and two-step lessons every Wednesday and Saturday at Charlie’s Chicago are beginner-friendly and open to all. It's a great opportunity to connect with the LGBTQ+ community and enjoy some lively country/western dancing.
Our April Calendar is out!! Check it out here.
The recap of our Collage event in case you missed it!
On April 17th we hosted an Happy Hour at Lizzano. We had great charcuterie boards, Spritzes and we welcomed a lot of news members from Singapore, Colombia, France, Argentina and more!
BIG NEWS!! On April 26th we are hosting a strength class at SALT Fitness with donuts and coffee from Stan’s Donuts and samples of fruits and granola from Playa Bowls. Sign up here.
Here you’ll find our active promo codes:
Lori’s Shoes: COOL15, both online and in store (cannot be used with other promos and it’s limited to one order per customer)
📷 Our Instagram page
💬 If you want to join our exclusive WhatsApp Community, please send us an e-mail with your phone number
🎵 Curated Spotify playlists
✉️ E-mail: coolbeansexpatclub@gmail.com
All typos are intentional, we are expats ;)
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I cannot wait to try all of your suggestions! 🔥
What a fun Substack!! Congratulations to you! I noticed you on Nolan's interesting post interviewing you and then zipped on over to take a look. Though I'm not from Chicago (though am very familiar w/ it--my brother and family lived there for years, frequent visits) thought I'd check you out. Carry on!!!