'The Ghost Guest' Blogger Amanda Topper's Guide To Chicago

Amanda Topper is not your average dinner guest. Whether she's scouring all the finest eateries in Chicago or detailing her unique experience in each establishment, Topper's popular blog and Instagram account The Ghost Guest has become a go-to resource for reliable and unbiased info on Chicago restaurants.

By day, Topper is a Chicago-based restaurant industry expert who analyzes restaurant trends and menus for a global market intelligence firm. By night, she is a social media influencer and food writer for both local and national publications. In other words, her discerning "ghost ratings" of local restaurants tend to be spot-on.

The Chicago native has always embraced her "friendly, wacky and delicious"city, and she considers its resilient people to be her favorite part. "We suffer through the long winters, embrace the nonexistent spring and soak up every minute of summer," says Topper.

From indulging in a glass of wine at Income Tax to taking in the Chicago skyline from Fullerton Beach, this foodie has tons of ideas on what to do in the Windy City. Check out her favorite spots around town, below:

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What neighborhood do you live in? Edgewater

What’s your occupation? Foodservice industry analyst and consultant.

Describe Chicago in three words: Friendly, wacky, delicious

What’s your favorite overall Chicago restaurant? Monteverde

Best sushi: Kai Zan

Best Italian food: Monteverde

Best dessert: Margie’s Candies

Best pizza: Lou Malnati’s

Best spot for a quick lunch: Chicago French Market

Best food truck: Doughnut Vault

Best spot for a romantic date: Bavette’s

Best glass of wine: Income Tax

Best Sunday brunch: The Publican

Best spot for a power business meeting: Gibsons Italia

Best cup of coffee: La Colombe

Best steak: Bavette’s

Best craft cocktail: The Aviary

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

Favorite shopping venue or boutique: Foursided

Best gym or fitness studio: Soulcycle

Best spa: Chuan Spa at The Langham

Favorite charity event or organization: LuxeHome Chill

Favorite cultural event: Chicago Gourmet

Favorite cultural institution: Chicago History Museum

What’s the best museum or current exhibit in Chicago? The Art Institute of Chicago

Best historic or iconic Chicago landmark to see or explore: Wrigley Field

What’s your all-time favorite spot in Chicago? Fullerton Beach overlooking the Chicago skyline.

The best aspect of Chicago is: The people! We are up for anything, we suffer through the long winters, embrace the nonexistent spring, and soak up every minute of summer.

More city guides from notable Chicagoans:

• Bar Siena Chef Fabio Viviani's Guide To Chicago
  
• Mixologist Julia Momose's Guide To Chicago
  
• '312Food' Blogger Erin Byrne's Guide To Chicago

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Image Credit: Amanda Topper