Mr. Obama's neighborhood
Michelle Obama's field guide to can't-miss places in Hyde Park
We could take a stroll around Hyde Park, and I could point out landmarks like Rockefeller Chapel or Jimmy's Woodlawn Tap.
We might even stop by my favorite spot for fajitas, Mellow Yellow, just off Harper Square.
But if you want a better Hyde Park tour guide than I'd be -- maybe someone who lives in one of those stately Hyde Park mansions and happens to be running for president -- then I'm here to help.
(AP)
She was kind enough to offer up some family favorites for outsiders who don't know where to find the good stuff.
"I love living in Hyde Park, so close to so many of our friends and family," Michelle says. "The community is diverse and very family-oriented, and, as the mom of two daughters, I really appreciate that."
Besides, Hyde Park is where the Obamas shared their first kiss -- outside the Baskin Robbins on 53rd and Dorchester.
Family suppers out often include a pie at Pizza Capri, or Caribbean grub at Calypso in Harper Square.
Back when they could blend into a crowd, the Obamas would take their girls to enjoy the lake breeze at Promontory Point.
For years, the Obamas have shopped at 57th Street Books.
"The variety of titles, the programs for kids and the neighborhood feel make it a wonderful place to take a walk to and browse around," Michelle Obama says.
Now, the store has a shelf dedicated to just Obama books, a tribute to its most famous regular, even though the bookstore manager hasn't seen them in quite some time.
But they are pretty busy these days.