07-03-2025
From "Chicago Med" to Steppenwolf: Nick Gehlfuss shares his perfect day in the city
Steppenwolf Theatre's " Fool For Love" has been a big hit for the legendary North Side theater, which is extending the Sam Shepherd play through March 23.
Last produced by the company in 1983, the show stars Steppenwolf ensemble member Caroline Neff and actor Nick Gehlfuss, who is making his first appearance with the company.
Yes, but: That doesn't mean Chicago audiences don't know him. Gehlfuss is best known as fan favorite Dr. Will Halstead on NBC's "Chicago Med."
Spoiler alert: He left the show in 2023 after eight seasons.
What they're saying: " I love connecting with Chicago audiences more intimately through theater having only been on their televisions for the past decade," Gehlfuss tells Axios.
With this run at Steppenwolf and his time playing a Chicago doctor, it seems fitting to ask how Nick would spend his perfect day in the city:
🥞 Breakfast:" Batter and Berries in Lincoln Park. I'd get the Green City Omelet and if I'm feeling frisky, obviously the French Toast Flight."
🌊 Morning activity:"Kayaking on Lake Michigan or bike riding with my family along the bike path — basically any activity near the water."
🇪🇹 Lunch: " Demera in Uptown. I'd order the misir wot/ingudai, tibs/quosta and all the teff injera one can muster."
☕️ Afternoon activity:"Having a matcha latte and reading at The Understudy."
🥘 Dinner: " Bloom Plant Based Kitchen in Wicker Park. I'd eat anything there from the cornbread casserole to the turnip causa to the beet tart to the stuffed Piquillos."
🎸 Evening activity: "Accomplishing my goal of visiting every music venue in Chicago."
What's next: Gehlfuss is on stage with "Fool for Love" at Steppenwolf through March 23.
