Chicago Public Transit

I actually don't mind the el. In theory, I love that I can get anywhere via bus/train. I love that I can do my "green" part and use public transit. AND, I love people watching on the train: the good, the bad and the ugly.

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Sometimes it's not so bad, but then sometimes, you've had a bad day, the heat/air isn't working on the el, it's so crowded you're staring at someone's ass your entire commute home, and then the douche next to you decides this is the perfect time to have a conversation.

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Overall, though, it's not so bad. I love the CTA... or at least that's what I have to keep saying to myself.

BUT THEN I MOVED TO LAKEVIEW and experienced the horrible-ness that is SWARMS of Cubs fans.

Yesterday, on my commute home I was cornered by a bunch of loud obnoxious Cubs fans who were shouting and hitting one another, and blocking the doors at EVERY. SINGLE. STOP. My anger was about to bubble over, when I saw my chance.

I was sitting near one of said fans, who was wearing a Fukudome bandana (which 1. hasn't it been years since he was on the team? and 2. why people, why?).

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Side note: it bothers me when people have Asian letters tattooed on themselves. I mean, c'mon folks, it could easily just say "POOP" and you would have no idea!

So back to this obnoxious fan. I waited until we we're near the Wrigleyville stop, and started to giggle. Then I leaned in and asked him, "do you want to know what that REALLY says?"

I'm Korean, so I have no idea, but that bewildered look on his face was worth it. SO, so worth it.

Tasty Thai Treasure at Tac Quick

Last night, I asked Neighbor J to join me for dinner. Although we live only 1.5 blocks away from each other, we hardly see each other these days, as we've both become consumed amidst work, school and etc.

Being the dictator I am, I gave Neighbor J three options: Falafel (my favorite), Ethopian, or Thai. Neighbor J loves Thai, so it came as no surprise when we began heading on over to a well known Thai staple.

Tac Quick's sleek interior

Tac Quick is pretty well-known amongst Chicago foodies, although I hadn't had a chance to visit until now. I was taken aback when we walked in, to see the upscale interior where most of Chicago's Thai places are bare minimum decor. Our waitress was super friendly as she beckoned us to our table.

Crab Rangoon

I usually don't order crab rangoon. I feel like a traitor Asian, for choosing a menu item that has become so Westernized. I read in many reviews, though, that this was the appetizer to get, so we ordered it. OH MAN, it was good. Tac Quick makes their crab rangoon with, get this... REAL CRAB. Not to mention, there was a subtle kick of black pepper adorning the gloop inside.

Gyoza

This picture was taken after Neighbor J quickly each ate one, as they came to the table pipping hot. The dipping sauce was the star of this dish, as it was thicker than just plain soy sauce, and had pepper afloat.

Pad See Eiw

Neighbor J got this crowd favorite, which was presented in the most artful manner I've ever seen for a Thai place.

Kuay Teaw Tom Yum Muu Sab

Now this is the key to really enjoying your Tac Quick experience, order from the secret menu. I ordered the Kuay Teaw Tom Yum Muu Sab, a delicious spicy and bitter soup filled to the brim with rice noodles, veggies and pork on pork madness.

Just because I liked it so much, a close up

Portions were huge for this $7.25 dish, I barely finished half!

And because I'm sure you're wondering what my dear friend Neighbor J looks like, 

Neighbor J

Tac Quick is located on the border between Wrigleyville/Lakeview and Buena Park, just a quick three steps south of the Sheridan redline stop. It's BYOB, so make sure you stop at Sheridan L Liquors first!


A Tasty Thursday Treat for YOU,
♡M