When the "Bichu" is the Deal-Breaker

Sorry Congress Pizzeria—the lovely and delicious pizzeria and cocktail lounge on North Milwaulkee Avenue in Chicago—but there are certain lines we just can't cross.

Last night was a friend's going away party. The friend is spending five months volunteering in South Asia - kudos to that - and had a lovely, low-key, pizza, soda and beer soirée last night as one last "hoorah" with friends. And it was wonderful, it really was. The people were all great, we stayed for nearly three hours, the pizza was incredible, and I was set to leave with wonderful reviews and a glowing smile.

That was, at least, until someone called my name to turn around and look at something he'd found on the ground. A cockroach. Also known as a bichu in Spanish, and I just happen to like the way that rolls off the tongue better (by the way, bichu is actually just general for an annoying pest or bug, not a cockroach specifically).  

Dear Congress Pizzeria, I no longer love you. In fact, I was almost sick at the thought of having eaten in a place that shares rent with such horrid little bichus.  

I would like to say it's been great, but this relationship is officially over.

To our friends, however, have a wonderful time abroad!