Chop Shop

"Half restaurant / half vintage corner store deli. Chop Shop is Wicker Park's hidden gem offering up a full-service bar with artisan wines, craft beers, and local spirits." - Anna Zajac

"The Chop Shop wears many hats in Wicker Park. It’s a butcher shop and restaurant, plus a music venue and private events space. There’s also a cute little rooftop where folks can escape to during these crowded events." - Ashok Selvam, Naomi Waxman

"Chop Shop is a bar, restaurant, butcher shop, and live event space year-round. That’s a handful, but during the summer there’s only one part of Chop Shop you need to worry about: their rooftop. It’s a more secluded and laid-back outdoor space than its partytime neighbor, Big Star, so it’s ideal for a midweek casual hang. We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Team Infatuation

"Stop by this small butcher and cheese shop if you need a quick lunch and want to pick up some fancy gouda. You can't go wrong with the Butler Dip sandwich, caramelized onions and aged beef on perfectly-tangy sourdough bread, and the Detroit-style Sauce and Salumi pizza is so hefty that one delicious slice is often enough. As you’re eating, you’ll spot locals stopping by for wine night meat and cheese or parents busy with PTA meetings stocking up on Bolognese sauce for an easy dinner. Whatever you do, don’t leave without a banana pudding and chocolate mousse from the fridge." - Jené Shaw

"Chef and artist Won Kim (Kimski) will reanimate his annual Boo Ha-Ha: The Awakening beer party from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 28 at Chop Shop in Wicker Park. Costumes are strongly encouraged, and revelers can expect unlimited pours from more than 20 craft breweries including Marz, Middle Brow, and Moor’s. It’s all topped off with a buffet from Chop Shop and DJ sets from Kim, Brother B, and Mike Slugs. Tickets ($67.62) are available online." - Naomi Waxman, Ashok Selvam