Unfortunately, the south loop where you are located is the financial district and is pretty much a ghost town after office hours. It’s been improving the last few years, but there still isn’t a whole lot going on at night. The hot dog stands you refer to are mostly scattered thoughout the neighborhoods or nightlife areas like Lakeview or Lincoln Park. River North (around Malnati’s) is a little better. The Magnificent Mile (Michigan Ave. north of the river) and Navy Pier aren’t really roadfood havens, but they have a lot of nice shopping and touristy attractions.