Karen's place is wonderful. Very charming, really comfortable. As a former Chicagoan, I picked her place mostly because I love the neighborhood, and it doesn't disappoint in that regard, either. It's a very quiet side street, but is a block off the lake, and is walking distance to Montrose Beach, the bars and restaurants in East Lakeview/Boystown, and the great ethnic food joints in Uptown. It's also an easy walk to the Sheridan Red Line stop. Pro tip: if you're looking for good food and beer nearby, go to the Bar on Buena. It's one of my favorite hidden gems in the city.