Ever wondered how your favorite TV stars unwind when the cameras stop rolling? Nick Gehlfuss, known for his role as Dr. Will Halstead on Chicago Med, opens up about what a perfect day in Chicago looks like for him. Spoiler alert: it’s not just hospitals and scripts—it’s jazz, lake walks, and hidden gems that make the Windy City feel like home.
Ready to follow in his footsteps?
🌆 The City That Captured His Heart
Why Chicago?
Unlike Hollywood or New York, Chicago has a gritty charm. According to Nick, it’s “real, alive, and full of stories.” That makes sense for an actor who thrives in storytelling.
From Set Life to Street Life
Filming Chicago Med might be intense, but when he clocks out, Nick dives into a very different side of the city—one that’s filled with calm corners, great coffee, and culture.
☕ Morning Vibes – Coffee First, Always
Favorite Coffee Spot – Sawada Coffee
Nick kicks off his day at Sawada Coffee in the West Loop. A military latte (yes, it’s a thing) and the cozy industrial vibe set the tone for what he calls his “mental reset.”
Why It’s His Go-To
He loves how the spot is tucked away—less chaos, more charm. “It’s like a scene from a quiet indie film,” Nick says.
🚶 Mid-Morning Stroll – Lakeshore for the Win
Lakeshore Path Magic
Post-coffee, it’s time for a walk or jog down Lakefront Trail. The breeze off Lake Michigan and the city skyline are “everything you need to recharge.”
Why It Matters
Nick compares the walk to “flipping the page of a great book.” It clears the mind and fuels creativity.
🎭 Afternoon Escapes – Theater is Therapy
Steppenwolf Theatre – A Place of Passion
One of Nick’s biggest passions outside of TV is theater. His perfect day includes catching a matinee or just dropping by the Steppenwolf Theatre—a creative haven for actors and art lovers.
Why Steppenwolf?
Founded by legends like Gary Sinise and John Malkovich, Steppenwolf is a core reason why Nick finds Chicago’s art scene unmatched. “It reminds me why I act,” he says.
🍽️ Lunch Like a Local – Flavor Explosion
Lula Café in Logan Square
For lunch, Nick heads to Lula Café—organic, inventive, and ridiculously delicious.
Best Picks on the Menu
He swears by their ricotta pancakes or seasonal grain bowls. “It’s food that feels like a warm hug,” he jokes.
📚 Hidden Gem Stop – Indie Bookstores Are His Weakness
Unabridged Bookstore in Lakeview
If he has extra time, Nick makes a detour to Unabridged Bookstore, one of Chicago’s beloved indie bookstores.
What He Loves
According to Nick, “The handwritten staff picks make it feel like a conversation.” He often leaves with a new script idea—or at least a new novel.
🎶 Evening Chill – A Jazz Kind of Mood
Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
As the day winds down, you’ll likely find Nick at Green Mill, Chicago’s iconic jazz bar.
Time Travel, But Make It Musical
With Al Capone-era booths and live jazz, it’s the kind of spot where time slows down. “It’s Chicago in its truest form,” he says.
🍷 Dinner Done Right – Sophisticated, Not Stuffy
Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
Dinner is never just dinner when it’s at Bavette’s. Nick’s a fan of the ambiance—low-lit, velvet booths, and Sinatra playing in the background.
What’s on His Plate
He often opts for filet mignon or seafood towers. “It’s indulgent, but earned,” he laughs.
🎬 Late-Night Reflection – Movies Over Clubs
Music Box Theatre for the Win
Instead of hitting nightclubs, Nick prefers ending his night with a film at the Music Box Theatre—an old-school movie house that screens indie gems.
Why It’s His Vibe
He calls it “a cinematic lullaby”—the final scene to a day well spent.
🧠 What His Perfect Day Says About Him
More Than a TV Doctor
Nick’s itinerary shows his deep love for creativity, solitude, and city life. It’s not just a list of places—it’s a reflection of his soul.
The Takeaway for Fans
Want to experience Chicago through Nick’s eyes? Mix hustle with hush. Adventure with reflection.
📍 Nick’s Top 5 Must-Visit Chicago Spots
-
Sawada Coffee – for a jolt of caffeine and charm
-
Lakefront Trail – to recharge by the water
-
Steppenwolf Theatre – for art that moves you
-
Lula Café – for feel-good food
-
Green Mill – for music and magic
📝 Conclusion: Walk a Day in His Shoes
Nick Gehlfuss doesn’t just live in Chicago—he experiences it deeply. His perfect day is a love letter to the city: bold, artistic, relaxed, and thoughtful. If you’re ever in the Windy City, try following his path—you might just fall in love with it too.
