"For the ultimate picnic basket, I make a pit stop at The Goddess and Grocer, a delightful little deli and grocery. Half the fun of popping in is the chance to chat up the owner (rather, the Goddess), Debbie Sharpe, a transplanted Australian gourmet who stocks her darling food shop with everything from organic veggies and pungent cheeses to beet salad and fresh, warm breads studded with almonds and olives. Escape the Chicago chill with a steaming bowl of homemade soup – or pick from the creative assortment of excellent wines, which also serve as a perfect antidote to the nip in the air."

Read foodie's Chicago reviews | Comment