'312Food' Blogger Erin Byrne's Guide To Chicago

Growing up in a family that frequented the same local Chinese restaurant every Sunday, Erin Byrne has always had a passion for supporting local food businesses. That soft spot for locality — along with her love for Chicago, food, travel and photography — served as the inspiration behind her Chicago-based food blog and Instagram account, 312food, which showcases the latest restaurants and chefs in the area.

So what brought this foodie to Chicago (aside from wanting to be closer to her now husband)? Its "genuinely friendly people," says Byrne. The blogger takes pride in the city that constantly makes her feel welcome, as it is unlike many places she has experienced before, and she's constantly inspired by its "fun, friendly and hungry" atmosphere.

Since her local food coverage is always encouraging people to try new things, we decided to ask Byrne to suggest some of her favorite destinations around Chicago. From where to sip a glass of wine (Rootstock Wine and Beer Bar) to which restaurant has the best Sunday brunch, here are some of her top picks around the Windy City:

How long have you lived in Chicago? 7 years

What neighborhood do you live in? Lakeview

What’s your occupation? Marketing consultant and local food blogger

Describe Chicago in three words: Fun, friendly, hungry

What’s your favorite overall Chicago restaurant? The Purple Pig

Best sushi: Kai Zan

Best Italian food: La Scarola

Best dessert: The Purple Pig

Best pizza: Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder Company

Best spot for a quick lunch: Heaven on Seven

Best spot for a romantic date: Bavette’s

Best glass of wine: Rootstock Wine and Beer Bar

Best Sunday brunch: The Gundis Kurdish Kitchen (order the Kurdish Breakfast for 2!)

Best spot for a power business meeting: Gibsons Italia

Best cup of coffee or tea: Sparrow in Naperville

Best steak: Steak 48 (Try to get a booth in the kitchen.)

Best craft cocktail: CH Distillery and Cocktail Distillery

What hotel would you recommend for your out of town guests? The Conrad or The Langham

Favorite shopping venue or boutique: Foursided

Best gym or fitness studio: Flywheel

Best spa: King Spa & Sauna

Favorite charity organization: The Catcade (we just adopted our cat from there!); Greater Chicago Food Depository

Favorite cultural event: Chicago Gourmet

Favorite cultural institution: The Second City

What’s the best museum or current exhibit in Chicago? Museum of Science & Industry

Best historic or iconic Chicago landmark to see or explore: The view from Adler Planetarium

What’s your all-time favorite spot in Chicago? Biking along the lake on a sunny day.

The best aspect of Chicago is: Its genuinely friendly people!

Image Credit: Kristen Mendiola