On my way to work this morning, something different caught my eye. On North Michigan Avenue, not far from where Oprah closed down the streets for her season opening party, sat a statue of a black man.

On the Northeast corner of Michigan, across the street from the Wrigley Building, you will find a brand new bronze bust of the “founder of Chicago”, Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable, 1745-1818. The plaque reads: "African-Caribbean, born in St. Marc, Haiti. In the 1770’s he opened the first trading post beside the Chicago River, establishing the settlement that became Chicago."

The monument was given to the city by Haitian-born Mr. Lesly Benodin to honor the legacy of its founder. The bust was created by Eric Blome.

If you find yourself strolling down the Avenue, stop by and check out the statue.

Chicago’s West Loop is up and coming, and has some of the most eclectic restaurants in the city. Among them is Carnivale, a Latin restaurant with cuisine from Brazil, Argentina, El Salvador, Cuba and Colombia. Located right off the Kennedy Expressway, Carnivale is equally known for its food as its atmosphere.

The ambience alone makes this restaurant a must-visit. It’s dimly lit, with mostly dark walls. However, it’s a very playful atmosphere. There are colorful lamps throughout that make the restaurant seem like a party is waiting to happen. Its vibrant furnishings just add to the experience. There are beautiful paintings that adorn the wall, while Latin dance music plays. I was definitely entertained as soon as I walked in.

I went to Carnivale in the summertime, and opted to sit on their patio, which has a view of the Kennedy Expressway and downtown Chicago. It was amazing. On the interior, Carnivale has 7 private dining rooms, all decorated differently. A couple of them have their own bar area.

Carnivale’s menu has such delicious dishes like pernil, which is glazed pork shoulder, fried plantains and Puerto Rican rice and beans. Their …

If you're in the Wicker Park area checkout Bin Wine Bar on Milwaukee. Really cool/low key date or just hanging with the girls spot. Please don't confuse this place with Bin36. Bin Wine Bar has more of a food selection.