Chicago - August 01, 2010

Here's the Plan

Chicago Events and Diversions

Groove with it.

SPIN
LooseLeaf Lounge Record Swap
What: Trade LPs and share tracks with fellow music junkies. (Tip: The crowd digs blues, jazz, ambient, and rock.)
Why: It’s pure, old-school fun.
When: Tues., 7 p.m.
Where: 2915 N. Broadway, at Oakdale Ave. (773-348-7881). Admission is free.

BRAKE
Gaztro-Wagon
What: At last, the hyped-up food truck hits the streets, delivering modern street fare to the curb nearest you.
Why: Chef Matt Maroni cooks a mean naan-wich (try the smoked salmon with watercress and a side of naan).
When: Tues., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Wed. & Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Where: Follow the truck’s whereabouts on Twitter or get text message updates by registering your phone number online at gaztro-wagon.com.

SHOP
Heartfelt Sale
What: Up to 65 percent off printed silk cocktail dresses, rompers, and skirts from the collaboration between painter Salvatore Principe and designer Kate Gold.
Why: Art’s on your mind, but Picasso isn’t in reach.
When: Now.
Where: Online at Swirl.

EAT
Arami
What: The dudes behind SmallBar give West Town a new hub of Japanese comfort food (slow-cooked short ribs, pan-seared scallops) and sushi.
Why: Zen and the art of appetite maintenance.
When: Tues.-Sun., 5-11 p.m.
Where: 1829 W. Chicago Ave., b/t Wood St. & Wolcott Ave. (312-243-1535).

SWIG
Spudnik Press’s Drink & Draw
What: Grab a PBR. Meet new friends. Finger paint. It’s that simple.
Why: It all goes down in a funky screen-printing studio.
When: Wed., 7-9:30 p.m.
Where: 1821 W. Hubbard St., b/t Wood St. & Wolcott Ave., ste. 308 (312-532-0304). Suggested donation is $5.

Photo: Katherine Lynn / Flickr