Mom's Day Off : A Saturday in the City

Why Every Mom Needs a Day in the City

As a mom of two, most of my days revolve around snacks, school drop-offs, diaper changes, and bedtime routines. Don’t get me wrong, motherhood is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had, but every once in a while, I crave a little break from the everyday chaos. This past Saturday, I finally made it happen. I met up with a good friend for a much needed day in Chicago, and it was everything I didn’t know I needed.

First Stop: Bar Pendry

We started downtown at Bar Pendry, a cozy spot that instantly caught my attention when I saw puppy chow on the menu. As a true Midwest girl, that sealed the deal. The bar itself was small but inviting, with just the right amount of upscale charm. We sipped on cocktails, enjoyed some bites, and of course grabbed our puppy chow to go.

Riverwalk Views & City Winery

A short walk brought us to the Chicago Riverwalk, one of my favorite spots in the city. We grabbed drinks at City Winery, skipped the reservations, and found a seat right along the river. I’ll be honest, the frozen cocktails were overpriced and just okay, but the views and atmosphere were unbeatable. Sometimes, a vibe can make up for what a drink lacks.

Caffeine & the West Loop

From there, we made our way toward the West Loop with a quick Starbucks iced coffee pit stop. Refreshed, we headed to the rooftop bar at Nobu Hotel for panoramic views of the city. There were some good bar snacks on the menu but we weren't that impressed with the service. However on the way down to the lobby we ran into the hotel manager, and this is where things turned around for us. We mentioned that the rooftop was just ok, and somehow we noticed the scent in the elevator. He quickly commented that we could purchase either diffusers or candles with the signature Yuzu Ginger scent that Nobu Hotels are famous for. He quickly packed up the diffuser and candle for us and offered us complimentary glasses of Vueve. Just when I was about to be disappointed I was pleasantly surprised with the level of service and how one person went above and beyond to make our experience memorable. (Update: my home now smells amazing.)

Retail Therapy at Uncommon James

Next, we stopped by Kristin Cavallari’s Uncommon James on Randolph Street. I went in for candles (my usual go-to) but walked out with a cozy, stylish sweatshirt I can already tell will be a wardrobe favorite.

A SoHo House Nightcap & a Cocktail Story

We wrapped up the evening at SoHo House for one last drink, where we struck up a conversation with a couple who own an Australian restaurant in Streeterville. When I mentioned the purple gin martini my husband and I have perfected over the years, they were intrigued. I ordered one for them, and as true millenials we ended up bonding over cocktails, “Bluey,” and even Mary-Kate & Ashley movies.

I suggested they put my drink on their menu, it’s photogenic, refreshing, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. We even joked about naming it after Our Lips Are Sealed, the Mary-Kate & Ashley movie filmed in Australia. Honestly… I think it’s fate.

Here’s the recipe in case you want to try it at home:

Our Lips Are Sealed

• 2 oz Empress Gin

• ¾ oz simple syrup

• ¾ oz lemon juice

• Shake over ice, strain into a chilled glass

• Top with Prosecco & a twist of lemon

Why This Day Mattered

It wasn’t just about the bars, the food, the shopping, or the views (though those were amazing). It was about pressing pause on my mom life for a few hours and remembering the part of me that loves exploring, connecting with people, and just being me. Motherhood is beautiful, but so is letting yourself be more than “mom” every once in a while.

If you’re a fellow mom who hasn’t had a day like this in a while, consider this your sign. Make the plan. Book the sitter. Put on the outfit that makes you feel good. The kids will be fine, and you’ll come home feeling lighter, refreshed, and maybe even smelling like a Nobu candle.

XOXO

Effortlessly Sophisticated