Jenny McCarthy is a Chicago girl at heart, but now, her heart belongs to Boston-born hubby Donnie Wahlberg. And it’s no secret she loves to eat, so we had to ask what her favorite spots are back home as well as in Donnie’s hometown. Check out Jenny’s restaurant recommendations, must-shop stops, and more in our exclusive interview.
Where do you find the best deep dish pizza in Chicago?
Giordanos, by far. If you’re going to go to Chicago and try deep dish pizza, you have to go there. I get the cheese and sausage; most people like the cheese. Just know that it’s very cheesy, so you better be a cheese lover.
What's your favorite non-pizza restaurant in Chicago and why?
I'd have to go with RPM, which is an Italian restaurant. Guiliana Rancic, from E!, is an owner. They have a trendy, Italian gourmet vibe. If you’re like, “I don’t feel like going to a club tonight, but I still want a fun bar atmosphere,” it’s perfect. You get the best of both worlds.
What do you order there?
They’ve got this amazing goat cheese bruschetta, and then usually any type of pasta.
What's your ideal weekend in Chicago like?
Without a doubt -- shopping. The stores have gotten to be phenomenal there.
Where are you shopping?
Barneys. They just opened a Christian Louboutin store. The stores are all lined up -- a dream. Also, I love to do the carriage rides with [my son] Evan.
What is a great restaurant in Boston that Donnie's taken you to?
Almanove, which is the Wahlbergs' restaurant. It’s American cuisine. I get oysters. I got lobster there last time.
How do you stay in shape while traveling?
I pack SkinnyStix wherever I go. There isn’t a better travel companion -- it gives me great energy, puts me in a good mood, and helps me not eat everything while I’m traveling.
What other activities do you like to do while visiting Boston?
We go to Plymouth and that little town in there. We walk around by the water, we step on the Plymouth Rock! We really like walking around that area and riding [Donnie's] motorcycle up and down.