Slice of Life: The Forbidden Door

Yes, it's another alley shot.  This time of a foreboding door in an alley near the Sears on State (2 North State Street).  I'm not sure what building it leads to, but it certainly is atmospheric, especially in the light of sodium lamps.  This is the photograph's natural color.  It has not had sepia or any other effect added.

Slice of Life: Alley Dining

What do I love about Chicago?  One of the things is its alleys.  Sure, they're not as plentiful as New York or as intriguing as Tokyo, but even just in the Loop they contain a number of hidden treasures.

Recently I've begun to notice that there are several restaurants and clubs that are accessed either partially or exclusively through the city's alleys.  Often these alley entrances are flanked by regulars who know how to get in and get out quickly.

This one is not technically an alley, it's West Calhoun Place.  But the main entrance for this restaurant in the Burnham Center is 111 West Washington Street, and hardly anyone uses West Calhoun Place for anything other than collecting the trash or taking a shortcut.

Slice of Life: Our Favorite Alley

Historic cobblestones?  Check!
Overflowing vegetation?  Check!
Dark tunnel?  Check!
Trains rumbling above?  Bonus check!

This little stretch of cobbles linking West Grand Avenue with West Hubbard Street is our new favorite Chicago alley.  Of course, visiting with the noonday sun at our backs is easy.  Coming back after dark is where the challenge lies.