Today, I took a worthwhile journey into previously unexplored territory. Ok, I've walked this path a few times before, but never have I more enjoyed the fruits of my efforts. It began at noon today, when I walked East down Madison Avenue to the red line. Now, my normal routine would be to get on the Howard red line and ride that mama to the Wilson stop, and to my homestead. But not today. Not when so many were depending on me.
The 95th/Dan Ryan train arrived shortly after I pushed through the turnstiles. It expeditiously carried me to the station at Cermak/Chinatown. I made my way down the concrete steps and out onto Cermak (22nd Street, for the layperson). I began my walk East towards my destination. As I walked, I made sure to take time to enjoy the scenery that this area of the city had to offer. From the closed down gyros and sausages stand, to the fabulous Hilliard Homes (http://www.thecha.org/housingdev/hilliard_homes.html), it was all a visual treat. As I approached Wabash Avenue, I could see it. It was the White Castles that I craved.
Upon entering said White Castle, I noticed that this location did not have an indoor seating area. There was only a small vestibule for ordering, and then dual drive through lanes. One gentleman, who had just received his food order, decided that it was time to dance in the vestible, to the sweet sounds of Michael Jackson's "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'". I then knew that I was right where I belonged. His gyrations provided the perfect entertainment whilst I waited for my turn in line. When it became my turn to order, the friendly woman behind the window took down everything that I said. Unfortunately, as I would find out later, she did not include all of the food items in my to-go bags.
As I waited for my food to come up, an older gentleman entered the restaurant and asked me for some spare change. I just laughed, as I had not yet received my change from my payment. He had asked too soon! But nonetheless, he made sure to drop by the restaurant a few more times to ask again.
When my food was ready, I graciously thanked the woman behind the window, and made my way onto Wabash Avenue. After walking for about two blocks, I was able to hail a cab, with a driver who was more than happy to pick me up with my steaming, aromatic treasures. He delivered me safely back to Madison Avenue, where I was able to share the love with some of my famished co-workers. Overall, an incredible journey. And yet, I don't see myself returning to that location anytime in the near future.
Chas goes to White Castle