Chicago Recap / The Surprise

I've been meaning to post a recap of my latest trip to Chicago for the past week, so here ya go! It was awesome wrapping up my summer in this beautiful city. I attended North Coast Music Festival (officially kicking off my hiatus until Coachella) where Waceracer threw it down! Also, when in Chicago you just HAVE to try out a brunch joint or two. The Publican is one of those places that definitely deserves a visit. Their house bacon was good enough to cry for (and I almost did). Other than music and brunch, the boy also took me to the Brookfield Zoo (who doesn't love Zoos?!). 

As for the big surprise, I'm sure for those who are already following me on Instagram already know that on this same trip...YOUR GIRL IS NOW ENGAGED! Here are few of my favorite pictures captured by Chips Media of the entire proposal under the city lights. And of course, it wouldn't be us if we didn't throw in a dorky pose at the end.

XOXO
THE CALI CHEMIST 

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FYF Fest, LA.

(Bauble Bar Necklace | H&M Hat | Forever 21 Shorts + Top | Newdress Sunglasses)

This summer, my life consisted of going to festivals, indulging in good eats, and going to more festivals. Yo girl ain't complaining! One of my favorites include Splash house and also FYF Fest in LA. I guess you can say it was like a mini-coachella. With a plethora of selections in good food, you could easily just grab a beer and hang back while you enjoy the different artists (this year's favs include Kanye freakin' West and Flume etc.) What got me through the blazing sun this summer was definitely a good can of sunblock as well as a good pair of shades. These particular sunnies from my good friends at Newdress got me through FYF. Who can resist a cute cat eyed frame? I have another festival coming up in a week in Chicago until I officially go on festival hiatus until Coachella. Anyone going to North Coast fest? 

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST 

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Travel Diary: San Francisco ,CA Pt. II

(House of Prime Rib | 1906 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94109)

This place is often compared to Lawry's, and let me tell you if you love Lawrys you will love this place. The difference isn't exactly in the prime rib but in the sides option. Unlike Lawry's thats infamous for their creamed corn, House of Prime rib takes creamed spinach to the next level. I got the "House of Prime Rib Cut" which is the thicker option. For the smaller eaters out there they do ofter the "City Cut", which is significantly thinner sliced. Must try in SF if you're looking for a heartier/fancier meal. Quick tip, if you decide to show up without a reservation try snagging a spot at the bar which still allows for dine-in. 

(Coqueta | Pier 5, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105)




Coqueta was recommended by a close friend of mine, and probably one of my favorite meals on the trip. This spanish tapa style restaurant overlooks the water. Aside from it's extremely trendy interior and ambiance, the service was also great. Everyone's favorites include the Crusted Chicken Croquetas (cause you can't go to Coqueta and not get Croquetas) and the Pork Shoulder which was both tender and flavorful. Recommended for foodies, cause what is better than tapas style the provides options to taste?! We also had the Sangria, but from what I've heard the gin and tonic will knock your socks off.

(R&G Lounge | 631 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108)

If you like Chinese style salt & pepper crab then R&G takes it to the next level. They fry the crab till its outer shell is coated with a crispy layer all around. Although pricing is seasonal, a whole crab serves about 3 people generously. We ended up getting two more dishes, but this stole the show.

(El Techo de Lolinda | 2518 Mission St. San Francisco, CA 94110)

Since it was a nice and warm day in SF, we decided on dining at El Techo, a rooftop restaurant that overlooks the city skyline. Even at 5pm, there was a line that formed outside which shows how lively this place was. My favorite were the Empanada de Carne w/ Chimichurri dip but their infamous Chicharrones was also amazingly tender. Although the corn did hit the spot, I would say that nothing beats the authentic corn carts on the street. 

Let me know if any of you guys have given these spots a try and your thoughts on your experience! Till next time! 

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST 

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Travel Diary: San Francisco ,CA Pt. I

Nothing beats stepping out of the regular day-to-day routine by doing some weekend traveling. In my case, I took some time off for a quick turn around trip to San Francisco to visit a few friends. Of course, as a California native I had already been to the bay area a number of times but so glad I was able to document my trip this time around. Above are a few pictures from the historic (and super touristy landmark) Dolores Park, the streets of China Town,  and snaps from the Made in America Festival held at Crissy field (which overlooked the Golden Gate Bridge). Highlight was watching the entire Bay Area "tell you where to go" during E40 (I see you Bay Area)! But aside from hanging out with friends and frolicing around the streets of SF, the highlight of my trip was THE FOOD. Thus, please look out for part II of my SF travel diary where I will highlight the many places I was able to try. 

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST 

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Blow a Kiss, Fire a Gun

(Sunglassspot Shades | Forever 21 Slit Tank | Foreign Exchange Bralette)

Sorry loves its been a minute! Just wanted to provide a quick update with a few snaps from one of my favorite spots in LA arts district. I've also got a vacation recap of my trip to Wisconsin for ya'll coming your way! In the meantime, stay cool like I did in this high slit tank from F21. My latest obsession this summer has also been sunglasses, on and obviously colorful doors! 

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST 

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Great Heights

(YesStyle Jersey Dress | Dimepiece LA Beanie | Nikes/Boots)

These incredible shots were taking by Timbocracy. Not only is his work amazing, he also goes through great heights (literally) for his photos. Can't thank him enough for pushing me to the limit for these pictures. Scaling buildings, climbing fire escapes, and lighting smoke grenades was all a first for me. However, every bit of normal for him (no big at all). Hope you enjoy these shots as much as I do :) Till next time, where I'll be blogging about my first Coachella experience. Anyone else going this year? 

XOXOJOANNIE

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