Memorial Day Weekend is a time for relaxation, reflection, and enjoying the company of friends and family. And what better way to celebrate than with a delightful picnic and some mouthwatering barbecue? If you’re in the vibrant neighborhoods of Lakeview East or Wrigleyville in Chicago, you’re in luck. These areas offer a fantastic selection of stores, markets, and barbecue joints where you can find everything you need for the perfect Memorial Day picnic and grill-out. From fresh meats and fine wines to delectable barbecue options, let’s explore the top spots to pick up picnic supplies and barbecue essentials in Lakeview East and Wrigleyville.
Picnic Supplies
For those seeking a unique and curated selection of wines and spirits, BottlesUp! is local favorite in Lakeview East. This boutique wine shop prides itself on offering a carefully handpicked assortment of wines from around the world. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to discover new flavors, BottlesUp! has knowledgeable staff who can guide you in finding the perfect bottle for your picnic or celebration. They also offer a selection of craft spirits, including whiskies, gins, and more, for those looking to elevate their cocktail game. With its cozy atmosphere and personalized service, BottlesUp! is a must-visit destination for wine and spirits enthusiasts in Lakeview East.
When it comes to satisfying your craving for delicious bagels and sandwiches, The Bagel in Lakeview East is a go-to spot. This neighborhood institution has been serving up freshly baked bagels for years, and their menu boasts a wide array of mouthwatering options. Whether you prefer a classic plain bagel with cream cheese or a stacked sandwich filled with premium meats and flavorful toppings, The Bagel has something for everyone. Their bagels are baked to perfection, boasting a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior that is sure to please. With friendly and efficient service, picking up food from The Bagel is a breeze, ensuring that your picnic or mealtime is filled with scrumptious flavors and satisfying bites
Want the best & easiest charcuterie board in the neighborhood? Look no further than Mariano’s in Lakeview East for an exquisite selection of charcuterie. This popular supermarket chain offers a wide array of premium meats and cheeses that are perfect for creating a picnic-worthy charcuterie board. From thinly sliced prosciutto and artisan salami to a variety of flavorful cheeses, Mariano’s has all the ingredients you need to elevate your picnic experience. Their charcuterie section boasts a diverse range of options, allowing you to curate a board that caters to your preferences. Mariano’s charcuterie selection will add a touch of sophistication and delectable flavors to your outdoor gathering. With their high-quality offerings and convenient location, Mariano’s is a go-to destination for your picnic charcuterie needs.
When it comes to indulging in delectable pastries for your picnic, Maison Marcel in Lakeview East is a must-visit destination. This charming bakery offers a delightful assortment of freshly baked treats that are perfect for any outdoor gathering. From flaky croissants and buttery pain au chocolate to delicate macarons and decadent cakes, Maison Marcel’s pastries are a true delight for the senses. With their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional baking techniques, you can expect nothing less than perfection with each bite. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic in the park or a leisurely afternoon by the waterfront, picking up pastries from Maison Marcel will add a touch of French elegance and irresistible sweetness to your outdoor feast.
At Taste of New York Bagels and Deli in Lakeview East, their wrap platter is the hassle-free way to feed a crowd at a picnic. Packed with flavorful wraps featuring premium meats, fresh veggies, and savory spreads, it caters to diverse tastes. From classic turkey and Swiss to zesty chicken Caesar and vegetarian options, everyone will find something to enjoy. With the wrap platter from Taste of New York Bagels and Deli, you can focus on enjoying the picnic while ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Bittersweet Pastry, nestled in Lakeview East, is a pastry lover’s paradise and the perfect destination for selecting picnic treats. This charming bakery offers a delightful array of handmade pastries and desserts that are sure to elevate your outdoor gathering. From flaky croissants and buttery tarts to luscious cakes and delicate macarons, Bittersweet Pastry has something for every sweet tooth. For a picnic, be sure to grab a variety of their delectable pastries, such as fruit-filled turnovers, bite-sized tartlets, and decadent brownies. These portable delights are not only visually appealing but also deliver an explosion of flavors.
Memorial Day Events
This Memorial Day, don’t just see a parade, walk in one! The Wellington / Oakdale Old Glory Marching Society is excited to announce this is the 60th Anniversary of their Memorial Day Parade! In this parade, no one watches, everyone marches! This is a fun, free, family event for all ages! Bring your pets, bikes, scooters, and strollers. All are welcome, join in on the fun! Starting at 11 am.
The Cubbies are playing a 1:20 pm home game on Memorial Day! Enjoy the day cheering on your favorite baseball team. They’ll be playing the Tampa Bay Rays!
Make your Memorial Day fabulous! Kit Kat will be serving Brunch with divas Angelicia Maria & Keri Traid! Sip on bottomless pink champagne, mimosas, bellinis, & bloody mary packages! Get your ticket in advance and guarantee your seats. Reserve here
The Queens of Pop are blessing us with a Memorial Day performance! Free-flowing bloody marys, mimosas, Nutrl, House Of Love canned cocktails, sangria, & bellini packages + $5 Bud Light. Hosted by Venus! Lark opens at 11 am.
Restaurants Open with Memorial Day Deals
Backyard BBQ Fundraiser at Graystone Tavern
On Sunday, May 28th from noon to 6 pm, Graystone Tavern is hosting a Memorial Day Backyard BBQ! For a $10 donation, all proceeds will go to the Wounded Warrior Project. Attendees can enjoy an all-you-can-eat BBQ menu!
Drink specials for the day include an $8 22-ounce stein of Empirical’s Local Lager, and $4 from every stein will also be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project!
Celebrate Memorial Day on a shady patio with a margarita in hand. El Nuevo Mexicano opens at 4 pm on Monday, and has happy hour from 4 to 6 pm!
Drink Specials include $8 margaritas, $6 glasses of house red and white, $9 sangria, $6 Jimador Silver shots, $4 imported beer.
Drew’s On Halsted is open all day on Memorial Day! Come in for a Mimosa Brunch from 10:30 am until 3 pm, and enjoy bottomless mimosas and a brunch entrée. If you’re attending IML, mention this Instagram post to receive 10% off your bill!
Duffy’s Tavern Memorial Day Brunch
Duffy’s is ready for a three-day weekend! They’ll be open on Memorial Day and are offering a great $40 brunch package. Included are bottomless mimosas, bloody mary’s, all drafts, well drinks, and a buffet!
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill
El Mariachi is serving up a $31.99 Bottomless Mimosa Brunch! Included are unlimited mimosas for two hours, and any entrée from their brunch menu. They’ll also be selling $7 house margaritas! Brunch will be served from 10 am to 3 pm, and dinner will go from 3:30 pm to 10 pm.
