Eileen Tull is a multi-hyphenate actor, writer, director, teacher, comedian, and founder of Fat Theatre Project which tells stories by/for/about/with fat people to disengage from the usual fatphobic narratives and open the doors for the characters and stories fat artists can tell. Their next production, The InterPlays, is a series of short plays that tell an intertwining story of love at any size and its many facets and phases, opening Aug 9-25 at Berger Park Coach House (6205 N Sheridan Road). As busy as she is and with a show about to open, Tull let me in on her favorite spots around the city, including how pie is the new happy hour and I couldn't agree more.
It's first thing in the morning, coffee or tea? And who does your favorite brew?
Definitely coffee! My unsophisticated palette will go with the nearest Dunkin. But I love Ridman's Coffee for a stop before a weekend walk with friends.
For the most important meal of the day aka breakfast, where do you go and what do you order?
A scone or hand pie from Metropolis if I'm commuting. For sit-down breakfast/brunch, nobody beats Taste of Heaven. I get the Silverland every time, why mess with success?
Are you a grab-and-go lunch eater or a slow sit-down type? What's your place and order?
Definitely grab-and-go on the regular, but when I have time for a sit-down, I love hitting up anywhere on Argyle for Thai, Vietnamese, or Chinese. Da Nang Kitchen and Chiu Quon Bakery especially! Anything you order will be incredible, but I usually go with pad see ew or a pork roll.
Afternoon pick me up? Snack? Caffeine or happy hour? Where is your favorite spot to jump-start the evening?
As a sober person, I'm always on the lookout for late-night spots that don't revolve around alcohol. Kopi Cafe is usually my go-to place. I also enjoy a bit of pie and relaxation at First Slice in Andersonville.
Dinner time, what place or meal brings your day to a close the right way?
I'm not specifically vegan, but Alice & Friends Vegan Kitchen has some of my favorite food and vibes. It's my favorite place to bring out-of-town friends and family.
Fat Theatre Project opens The InterPlays this Friday. Running Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until August 25. For more information visit or to purchase tickets, visit the website.