The start of a relationship is always the interesting part -- you get to learn about all of the flaws and quirks of your significant other. However, if you are dating someone from Chicago, you will soon begin to realize that these will probably revolve around the fact that they are from Chicago and all that encompasses that. Here are 10 things that are bound to happen when you start dating someone from Chicago (whether you like it or not, get ready).
1. "Portillo's" will begin to enter your vocabulary.
If you don't know what Portillo's is, you should definitely get acquainted. Your significant other from Chicago will no doubt take you to this place and you better be ready for one of the most amazing food experiences of your life. If you've ever wanted a shake with actual cake in it -- you can get it here. And it's amazing. I can definitely say my life has been significantly altered after this food experience at Portillo's (and that I also eat my body weight every time we go there).
2. You will have to non-stop hear about Chicago sports.
You may start to hear your boyfriend or girlfriend talk about how "at least they have the cubs." Chicago sports are one of the most important parts of their lives and you may have to swallow your pride as they beat your favorite team (Cough, Cough -- The Red Wings). While they are unfortunately Blackhawks fans ... and this may be a deal-breaker ... You will just have to realize one day that all dynasties fall (Cough, Cough -- The Blackhawks). However, at the end of the day, you both respect your team's rivalry.
3. You will realize there is a correct way to pronounce "Chicago."
Your boyfriend/girlfriend will probably say things differently and have a Chicago accent (which they will deny). However, all Chicagoans know the correct way to pronounce their city, and will make you say it over and over again until you get it right (I'm pretty sure I'm still not saying it correctly).
4. You will walk. A lot.
Although I am not complaining because walking is good for you ... there is A LOT of walking you will be doing in Chicago. I would definitely recommend wearing some comfy shoes if you are going to be visiting the city because you will definitely be ditching the cabs and walking instead. At least you will have your boyfriend/girlfriend for moral support!
5. TGFLM (Thank God for Lou Malnati's).
While I know there are MANY different deep-dish pizza places, you will start to realize your significant other from Chicago will say that their favorite deep dish place is the best. As I have learned, Lou Maltnati's is honestly the best deep dish there is. Shout out to Lou's -- you're the bomb.
6. You will learn about the beauty of Wrigley Field.
Even as a Detroit Tigers fan, it is hard not to love the Cubs and Wrigley Field. And if your boyfriend/girlfriend is from Chicago, there is no doubt they will have a Wrigley poster up in their room. After your first visit to Wrigley, you won't ever want to leave. Wrigley is just plain awesome, there's no need to further explain it.
7. You will learn it is sacrilegious to only put ketchup on your hot dog.
Come on ... You are in the land of hot dogs. I unfortunately (as I have learned) only put ketchup on my hot dogs, which turned out to be a huge mistake in seeing that people will give you dirty glares and seem to act very confused. Chicagoans know how to eat hot dogs, and it's clear as an amateur how wrong you were to put only ketchup on your hot dog. Goodbye ketchup, and say hello to the Chicago-style hot dog.
8. Union Station will become your second home.
The first time I have ever been on a train was on my way to Chicago. While I had seen Union Station in movies, I had never actually been there (and now I can say I would like to stay away from there). If your significant other is from Chicago, one of the best and cheapest modes of getting there is definitely the train, and you will, unfortunately, most likely be taking it a lot. So get excited (yay). However, it is always better when you have someone to ride with you.
9. You will learn about the awesome music scene.
There are so many amazing artists that have come out of Chicago and are currently dominating the music scene. As a music enthusiast myself, I am glad that I am able to learn about new and up-and-coming artists coming out of Chicago and being able to see where they will go. Regarding my boyfriend's favorite artist, Chance The Rapper, it has been awesome to learn and listen to more of his music. As an independent artist, Chance has done amazing things for not only the music industry but also the city of Chicago. I am excited to see what he does next.
10. You won't realize how much you will fall in love with the city of Chicago.
Before dating my boyfriend, I had never even been to Chicago. However, after getting to go back and visit, I have learned that it is such a special and dynamic place. Chicago has so much to offer everyone, and I can definitely say that the city of Chicago has a special place in my heart.
