Where to eat and drink if you're not at Lollapalooza

Magnolia Bakery's Lollapalooza Cupcake

Photo courtesy of Magnolia Bakery

Some people see Lollapalooza as the pinnacle of the Chicago summer, with its three days of partying, top-notch lineup, and, most importantly, hipsters babies in headphones. Others see it as a cesspool of sweaty crowds, expensive beer and porta-potties. So, for those in the latter category (or those smart enough to eat during the fest), there are still other—albeit, less thrilling—ways to celebrate Chicago’s big weekend.

Magnolia Bakery is serving a Lolla cupcake in vanilla or chocolate, topped with the festival’s iconic blue and orange colors Friday through Sunday. For each cupcake sold, Magnolia plans to donate $1 to Rock for Kids, a non-profit that provides music education to children in need.

If you think you'll need some protein to make it through the marathon that is Lolla, head to Brasserie by LM on Saturday or Sunday during the festival for a $15 burger-and-beer special. 

The Florentine looked to the diets of artists including vegan Ozzy Osbourne and carnivore Calvin Harris when constructing its Lollapalooza menu. The specials available Friday through Sunday include vegan options, steaks, octopus, melons and specialty cocktails.

Lockdown Bar & Grill is also drawing inspiration from Black Sabbath, more specifically the song, “War Pigs.” The burger is constructed from bacon, Angus beef, prosciutto and carnitas and is obviously not-so vegan.

Or, maybe you want the best of both worlds and bought a one-day pass. Head to any of I Dream of Falafel's three loop locations on Friday or Saturday and present your wristband to get a wrap and a drink for $5.