đ« Week 51: Spilled Beans!
Stay tuned for BIG NEWS in 2026!
Good morning, Cool Beans!
Did you know that on Sunday, December 14th, we had the earliest sunset of the year? And do you know what this means? Starting yesterday, the sun will set a little later each dayâwhich, for some of us, might feel like summer is coming! Just kiddingâweâll have to dream about that for now with all the snow and freezing weather weâve had so far. But that hasnât stopped us from exploring new places and events. Hereâs this weekâs selection. Enjoy!
Find Simonaâs coolest picks for Chicago, this week:
đ€€ If you are craving something new: A few weeks ago, we tried Strapoli, a cozy Italian pizzeria in Lincoln Park (with another location coming soon to Roscoe Village) that feels like a little slice of Italy in the neighborhood. Known for its warm, welcoming vibe, itâs a BYOB place where you can build your own pizza just the way you like itâperfect for a relaxed lunch or a casual dinner with friends. Simple, authentic, and made with care, Strapoli is all about good pizza and easygoing neighborhood vibes.
đșđ» If your feet canât stop (wonât stop) moving like Michael Jackson: On Wednesday, December 17th at 8 PM, Dorianâs in Wicker Park hosts an intimate night of smooth jazz and vibrant Brazilian rhythms. Presented by Afrotrak, this event brings together soulful live music and delicious gumbo by Chef Rah (available for purchase), all set in Dorianâs cozy, speakeasy-style space. Itâs a great way to experience Chicagoâs live music scene, meet new people, and enjoy a laid-back yet unforgettable evening out. Click here to get your ticket!
đ€ If live music is your vibe: This Wednesday, December 17th Pink Martini is bringing their signature mix of jazz, pop, and global sounds at The Auditorium for a night that feels polished but easygoing. Known for their multilingual vocals and retro-inspired style, their concerts are lively, elegant, and genuinely fun. Itâs a great pick for a date night or a night out with friendsâmusic you can dress up for without feeling over the top, and a show youâll leave humming on the way home. Click here for tickets
đïž If the couch (or the armchair) is calling your name: If youâre looking for your next show to watch, weâve got a recommendation for you. We just finished watching the Netflix limited series The Beast in Me and let us tell youâit was good! Both lead actors delivered compelling performances that really elevated the story. We personally werenât familiar with Matthew Rhys before this show, and his interpretation was absolutely outstanding. Just when you think the narrative might lose momentum as revelations unfold, another twist pulls you right back in, keeping you glued to the screen from start to finish. Highly recommended!
đ If you feel artsy: Bruce Goffâs work is finally getting the spotlight it deserves with âBruce Goff: Material Worldsâ at The Art Institute. The exhibition brings together over 200 pieces, from his inventive architectural drawings and models to his lesser-known abstract paintings. Goffâs designs are anything but ordinaryâthink spirals, domes, and unexpected materials like seashells and sequins. Influenced by everything from Native American art to Asian cultures, his work broke the rules of modern architecture and carved out a truly unique vision that still inspires today. Tickets and more info here.
đ€ Still not feeling it? Check these others out:
Our team is hitting pause on events until January to recharge for the new year! âš Weâre all heading off to travel, reconnect with family and friends back home, and soak up some well-deserved rest. The community is winding down too as we all take time to unwind and reflect on what an incredible year itâs been.
Stay tuned for BIG NEWS coming in 2026... đâ€ïž
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All typos are intentional, we are expats ;)
We wrote 3 articles in collaboration with 3 great expats around the world. Read them below!
The story of Cool Beans and our take on Community with Emanuela
We registered a podcast (in Italian) with Americanate on the wedding culture in the US from an Italian point of view. Listen here!
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