By day, Amanda Topper is the Associate Director of Foodservice Research at a global market intelligence agency, examining restaurant menus and trends to provide insights to her clients. By night, she is the Ghost Guest, a food blogger ranking Chicago's dining scene one meal at a time. Food is Topper’s job—and her life—so she’s the perfect person to whip up a tasting menu for Windy City-bound business travelers and give insightful tips on how best to explore Chicago while in town for work.

You’re only working a half day today. How do you spend the rest of it?

I’d kick off my afternoon with lunch al fresco—I love dining outdoors. I’d probably head to a Chicago rooftop to take in the view while enjoying some sun; then I’d go for a stroll on the Riverwalk. I’d make a pit stop at the Art Institute and then head to the West Loop for dinner and drinks!

You have a free evening and an expense account! Where do you and your team or client go for fun—whether you’re in the mood for sports, music, film or something completely unique to Chicago?

There’s nothing more Chicago than taking in a Cubs game! Wrigley Field is a special place.

You have a free hour or two and a camera. Where do you go to capture the best side of Chicago?

There are so many fun and colorful murals across the city. I’d probably start in Pilsen and work my way to the west side and to Logan Square to explore Chicago and capture the essence of each unique neighborhood.

You have three meals—and only three—to explore Chicago and get a taste of the city. Where do you go for breakfast, a quick lunch and dinner?

I’d start my day with breakfast at Dove’s Luncheonette in Wicker Park. It’s a cozy diner with insanely delicious brisket hash and house hot sauce. I’d grab lunch at the bright and airy Summer House Santa Monica. It’s a great place that feels like summertime year-round. Lastly, I’d have dinner at Monteverde, which serves the best homemade pasta in the city and has a relaxed vibe.

Where’s the best place to re-energize your mind during your lunch break?

I love walking over to the Riverwalk at lunch. It’s a perfect spot to sit and watch boats, kayaks and runners go by. It really forces you to take a breather and appreciate Chicago’s beautiful architecture.

You want to impress a new client, boss or colleague. Where do you meet him or her?

Bavette’s! It’s a perfect French steakhouse with a relaxing vibe. The food and drink never disappoint.

Business is going great. Where do you and your colleagues meet for happy hour to celebrate, and what do you order?

One of my favorite happy hour spots is Three Dots and a Dash. It’s an underground tiki cocktail bar that makes you forget about Chicago’s crazy weather and transports you to the islands.

What’s the coolest thing you can see or do within an hour of town?

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a 30-minute drive north of Chicago and is a beautiful place to tour and enjoy the tranquil gardens.

What’s the one attraction in Chicago you take all of your out-of-town visitors to see?

An architecture boat tour on the Chicago River! It’s an excellent way to explore Chicago, cover a lot of ground and learn a lot about the city’s history in less than two hours.

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