tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79101781549467064592024-03-13T06:47:07.199-05:00DineWise ChicagoThe DineWise Chicago column appears weekly in StreetWise magazine and on the DineWiseChicago blog. Features written by Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman explore Chicago's restaurant scene. StreetWise, is a social enterprise designed to help severely impoverished men and women out of poverty. The print publication is sold by authorized vendors at locations through Chicago and its suburbs. Contact DineWise@Kurman.com if you'd like to be featured.Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-62490748517790868902011-02-05T08:58:00.000-06:002011-02-05T08:58:09.950-06:00Chicago’s celebration as a world-class dining destination: Restaurant Week 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjc4kkWRRQE0H076Sk_xiPoH0_k2RD11AdUURTxs8IzGrFcdy33jQ6NAZJLIvu2__DEZZGlWno1_cxYje3cY3SU1SVWBoqOlLTO14UcRmLXkdVmkBfoUX0Q09pkxhCI4tqEXcHnLz8jZc/s1600/crw2011_headrev-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjc4kkWRRQE0H076Sk_xiPoH0_k2RD11AdUURTxs8IzGrFcdy33jQ6NAZJLIvu2__DEZZGlWno1_cxYje3cY3SU1SVWBoqOlLTO14UcRmLXkdVmkBfoUX0Q09pkxhCI4tqEXcHnLz8jZc/s400/crw2011_headrev-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By Cindy Kurman and Lee Barrie<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Originally published in Streetwise magazine</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For ten days beginning February 18 through February 27, Chicago celebrates Restaurant Week, with more than 200 restaurants offering special prix fixe menus at $22 for lunch and $33/$44 for dinner (beverage, tax and gratuity not included). This is a great opportunity to try new restaurants or old favorites and enjoy a great meal at a fabulous cost. Beverage, tax and gratuity are not included.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having trouble deciding where to eat? Here’s our pick of must try restaurants who are participating.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.bennyschophouse.com/"><b><span style="color: #051b8e; font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;">B</span><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">enny's Chop House</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Steak, American | Lunch Only (running special all month Feb. 1-Feb. 28!) $22 <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Bennys_Menu.pdf">Menu</a></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">444 N. Wabash Ave. | Chicago IL 60611<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-N.Michigan | 312 626-2444</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.blackbirdrestaurant.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Blackbird Restaurant</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">American | Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Blackbird_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">619 W. Randolph St. | Chicago IL 60661<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-West Loop | 312 715-0708</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://www.spiaggiarestaurant.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Cafe Spiaggia</span></a></span></b></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Italian | Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_CafeSpiaggia_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">980 N. Michigan Ave. | Chicago IL 60611<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-N.Michigan | 312 280-2750</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.catch35.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Catch 35</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Seafood | Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Catch35Chicago_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">35 W. Wacker Dr. | Chicago IL 60601<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-Loop | 312 346-3500</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.decerotaqueria.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">De Cero </span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Mexican | Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_DeCero_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">814 W. Randolph St. | Chicago IL 60607<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-West Loop | 312 455-8114</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><u><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;">East Bank Club / Maxwell's at the Club</span></u></b><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Maxwells_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">500 N. Kingsbury St. | Chicago il 60610<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 527-5800</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.elatechicago.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Elate Restaurant</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Elate_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">111 W. Huron St. | Chicago IL 60654<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-Loop | 312 202-9900</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Steak & Beef | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner only</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Flemings_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">25 E. Ohio St. | Chicago IL 60611<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 329-9463</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.japonaisgroup.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Japonais</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Japanese | Restarant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Japonais_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">600 W. Chicago Ave. | Chicago IL 60654<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 822-9600</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.joes.net/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Seafood, Steak & Beef | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Joes_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">60 E. Grand | Chicago IL 60611<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-N.Michigan | 312 379-5637</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.dinelamadia.com/"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">La Madia</span></a></span></b><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Italian | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_LaMadia_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">59 W. Grand Ave. | Chicago IL 60654<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 329-0400</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.lecolonialchicago.com/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Le Colonial Restaurant</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Vietnamese | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_LeColonial_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">937 N. Rush St. | Chicago IL 60611<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-N.Michigan | 312 255-0088</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.peninsula.com/chicago/dining.aspx"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">The Lobby at The Peninsula Chicago</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"><a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_TheLobby_Menu.pdf">Menus</a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Breakfast/brunch | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">108 E. Superior | Chicago IL 60611<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-N.Michigan | 312 573-6695</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.monamigabi.com/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Mon Ami Gabi Lincoln Park</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">French | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner only</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_MonAmiGabiLP_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">Belden Stratford Hotel 2300 N. Lincoln Park W. | Chicago IL 60614<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-Lincoln Park/Lakeview | 773 348-8886</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.n27chicago.com/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Nacional 27</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Latin | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Nacional27_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">325 W. Huron St. | Chicago IL 60610<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 664-2727</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.naha-chicago.com/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Naha</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_NAHA_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">500 N. Clark St. | Chicago IL 60654<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 321-6242</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.parkgrillchicago.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Park Grill</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">11 N. Michigan Ave. | Chicago IL 60602<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-Loop | 312 521-7275</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.piccolosognorestaurant.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Piccolo Sogno Restaurant</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Italian | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_PiccoloSogno_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">464 N. Halsted St. | Chicago IL 60642<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River West | 312 421-0077</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.prairiefirechicago.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Prairie Fire</span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_PrairieFire_Menu.pdf">Menus</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">215 N. Clinton St. | Chicago IL 60661<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-Near North | 312 382-8300</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.riccardotrattoria.com/"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Riccardo Trattoria </span></span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Italian | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_RiccardoTrat_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">2119 N. Clark St. | Chicago IL 60614<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-Lincoln Park/Lakeview | 773 549-0038</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.roysrestaurant.com/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Roy's Chicago</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Fusion | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Roys_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">720 N. State St. | Chicago IL 60654<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-N.Michigan | 312 787-7599</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.salpicon.com/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Salpicon</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Mexican | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Salpicon_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">1252 N. Wells St. | Chicago IL 60610<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-Near North | 312 988-7811</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Topolobampo</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">Mexican | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch only </span><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"><a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Topolobampo_Menu.pdf">Menu</a></span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">445 N. Clark St. | Chicago IL 60610</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 661-1434</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="http://www.zealousrestaurant.com/"><b><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 16pt;">Zealous</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: #082765; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #e75c00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13pt;">American | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner only</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> <a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/Document%20Resource%20Gallery/crw_2011/CRW2011_Zealous_Menu.pdf">Menu</a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">419 W. Superior St. | Chicago IL 60654<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">City-River North | 312 475-9112</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Participating restaurants may offer Restaurant Week menus for lunch, dinner or both – at their discretion. Please view individual restaurant profiles for menu details. For a complete list of participating restaurants, </span><a href="http://www.choosechicago.com/chicago_restaurant_week_2011/pages/default.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">go here.</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-89615500167848926582011-02-02T12:33:00.000-06:002011-02-02T12:33:39.744-06:00Arami rises above the pack with beautifully rendered and delicious Japanese cuisine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjf8URq566zp-1KSNxBu37SHgnOyyOp8QvSh29ewmGG_jE7SqO_mOOF1lXh7iBkaoMSom2uT3Nh-7WvH8oM0a93POf2b7NX-v4jWcXgJ6IeHkzOOv9QWg_HssWHO_v8vAwjEiG-4JjNoU/s1600/arami.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjf8URq566zp-1KSNxBu37SHgnOyyOp8QvSh29ewmGG_jE7SqO_mOOF1lXh7iBkaoMSom2uT3Nh-7WvH8oM0a93POf2b7NX-v4jWcXgJ6IeHkzOOv9QWg_HssWHO_v8vAwjEiG-4JjNoU/s1600/arami.jpg" /></a></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Arami</span></b><br />
1829 W Chicago Ave., Chicago<br />
312-243-1535<br />
www.aramichicago.com (website is still under construction)<br />
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<b>Hours: </b>11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Tues.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 5-10:30 p.m. Sun.; closed Monday<br />
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<b>Pricing: appetizers:</b> $4-12; noodle dishes, $12-15; nigiri and maki, $2-10; special dishes, $8-$13. Chef’s choice combinations are also available at a premium price.<br />
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We are definitely sushi lovers and we have written about it many times in DineWise. As much as we don’t want to overdo the topic, we just had to tell you about Arami, a new Japanese restaurant in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. We dined here last weekend with our good “foodie” friends and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience.<br />
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Arami is a modestly sized, hip-casual restaurant with a bar/lounge area in front, a generously sized sushi bar in the middle and an exposed brick walls and wood floored dining room in the back. We’re told there will be a nice outdoor patio in the back this coming spring.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOnFgy6_JiLkHwY62iDeZbbmI6v4OpKEm9bnS9O_AVjUWDPEBfziIvjYevR27hyphenhyphenI6lIOLSpXNQudtbj7wKS-zJNwJ7oElo7f3Km_7bt3s13nEdh9eiq5DZ6HSm_OboIQ1E1gy8za74pY/s1600/PB050531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOnFgy6_JiLkHwY62iDeZbbmI6v4OpKEm9bnS9O_AVjUWDPEBfziIvjYevR27hyphenhyphenI6lIOLSpXNQudtbj7wKS-zJNwJ7oElo7f3Km_7bt3s13nEdh9eiq5DZ6HSm_OboIQ1E1gy8za74pY/s200/PB050531.jpg" width="200" /></a>The crowd was on the younger side and the vibe was sophisticated but energetic. We were pleased with the ambiance, which includes handsome wooden tables, a modest but visually pleasing art collection on the walls and warm lighting throughout.<br />
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The menu is beautifully presented on a bamboo slab. It includes both sushi and many other Asian dishes, with an emphasis on Japanese food. The specialty of the house is the Geunkang Nigiri, which we will cover in a moment.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnehkC8bSvGgtJJyS16xoKTGsYcZjsNjcHXnoHsV0O8Ow7M4G6ZEzz-SNVA5F00ovfyE1qvrC-V7jNc6K5kTF_GCK4Edis7Z96WM3MVLSAHFRW5H0-zJVfjl5WYgeywLiL7Fj8xsTJyo/s1600/PB050532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnehkC8bSvGgtJJyS16xoKTGsYcZjsNjcHXnoHsV0O8Ow7M4G6ZEzz-SNVA5F00ovfyE1qvrC-V7jNc6K5kTF_GCK4Edis7Z96WM3MVLSAHFRW5H0-zJVfjl5WYgeywLiL7Fj8xsTJyo/s200/PB050532.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The menu begins with a generous selection of cold appetizers. For a quick amuse bouche, you might want to try the Toro Tartar Bite, fatty tuna, chives, caviar and house special soy sauce. But even better is the full app-sized Togarashi Seared Tuna, with seared tuna on top of a perfectly conceived seaweed salad, with kelp noodle, creamy Meyer lemon dressing. Another interesting beginning is the Spicy Tako Springroll, spicy octopus with cilantro and crisp mixed greens.<br />
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Hot appetizers include a wondrous Mushroom Salad, with citrus, sesame, warm mushrooms and micro shiso. Another good choice is the Seared Hotate, pan seared scallops, unagi, mushroom, shiro miso.<br />
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Noodle dish lovers (broth with noodles and other ingredients) have four good choices. The most popular, we’re told is the Veggie Udon, with soy braised daikon, mushrooms, eggplant, carrot, scallions and a poached egg floating on top. We gave it a try—the presentation was gorgeous and it was flavorful, with more than a touch of sweetness, which was different but very good.<br />
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As befitting a sushi restaurant, there is a large choice of typical nigiri and sashimi, as well as your basic maki and sushi choices. What shines here, however, are the special sashimi dishes, the special Geunkang nigiri and the special maki.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJCcOOqLwZPXC8TgZf7MXqCiQb4WHXWDNK5jTmasWO5Cp2M5PrW8tEGeWVXMj1SM61H1u5YJ_GgetV4eyBiRsRD6pE4IWioaOIa85giEeA84wgRNBiyUKBzKsW06IJO5h6hFL4rVYwKI/s1600/PB050535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJCcOOqLwZPXC8TgZf7MXqCiQb4WHXWDNK5jTmasWO5Cp2M5PrW8tEGeWVXMj1SM61H1u5YJ_GgetV4eyBiRsRD6pE4IWioaOIa85giEeA84wgRNBiyUKBzKsW06IJO5h6hFL4rVYwKI/s200/PB050535.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>In the special sashimi category, the Secret Hamachi, yellow tail with mushrooms and truffle oil, and the Sake Garlic, salmon with garlic and vinegar, are two good choices. We asked what Geunkang nigiri is and we were explained in detail. In Japan, a clump of sushi rice is hand-formed and a strip of seaweed is wrapped around its perimeter to form a “container”, which is filled with fine chopped ingredients that requires confinement, such as roe, oysters, vegetables and so forth. At Arami, a strip of fish is used instead of the seaweed, making for an enhanced and very tasty rendition. We thoroughly enjoyed the Zuke Sake Hotate, spicy scallop wrapped with salmon.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3romHZvBZB0kfuxfVM7Rg_ZXl9ZWUxH0nQqvkrUDHl0v3ZzrOqJduRwcdYp77iI_FuSd9lhOxltCa1_bsNP1bz0aPOUWCAvoWQaQLBXOnpuOXpPNetO43fiiddeqnCAcwlRizaCqfbE/s1600/PB050538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3romHZvBZB0kfuxfVM7Rg_ZXl9ZWUxH0nQqvkrUDHl0v3ZzrOqJduRwcdYp77iI_FuSd9lhOxltCa1_bsNP1bz0aPOUWCAvoWQaQLBXOnpuOXpPNetO43fiiddeqnCAcwlRizaCqfbE/s200/PB050538.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Once we moved on to the special maki, we were enraptured. Our favorite dish of the evening was the beautiful Hamachi Maguro Ebi, yellow tail, tuna, scallion, jalapeno, shrimp, and spicy mayo. The freshness stood out and the flavor combinations were unique and perfectly complimentary.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com. Photos by Cindy Kurman</span>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-27791665301249189982010-12-28T15:45:00.000-06:002010-12-28T15:45:33.738-06:00Artisan Food Gifts for New Year's in Chicagoby Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman<br />
Reprint from DineWise column in StreetWise Magazine<br />
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Celebrating the New Year with friends and family? Like so many of us, you're probably making the rounds or hosting your own gathering. If comfort and pleasure are your stock in trade, it’s time to bestow some tasty, locally created food items upon your family and friends. Here are some of our favorite local artisans who have made a name for themselves with unique, deliciously fresh goodies.<br />
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<b>Ugly Truffles and Damn Good Cookies</b><br />
<a href="http://www.chocolategourmet.com/">www.chocolategourmet.com</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZFCCxEwYHY0u_BWJLfFki5jzVP4kN4sF45YRTE7E0dLJw1oji_kDdln2wvlrqewX6Y2t6ju4u__4pgXtoZpILNl9TXvUtLo2YRz2BgcSlzKsFl9ZvJLq1jos-8gPunQXi5OViLtGEO_w/s1600/Ugly+Truffles.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZFCCxEwYHY0u_BWJLfFki5jzVP4kN4sF45YRTE7E0dLJw1oji_kDdln2wvlrqewX6Y2t6ju4u__4pgXtoZpILNl9TXvUtLo2YRz2BgcSlzKsFl9ZvJLq1jos-8gPunQXi5OViLtGEO_w/s1600/Ugly+Truffles.gif" /></a></div>Mary Winslow is one of Chicago’s custom cake artists. Her Take the Cake is one of Chicago’s finest wedding cake studios. For gift givers, she has created a line of cookies and candies that have won a nationwide following. Ugly Truffles are handcrafted candies and Damn Good Cookies are a line of assorted cookies. Don’t take the tongue-in-cheek name too seriously; these are truly delicious. Order them online; they’re shipped fresh.<br />
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<b>Terry’s Toffee</b><br />
1117 W Grand Avenue, Chicago<br />
(312) 733-2700; <a href="http://www.terrystoffee.com/">www.terrystoffee.com</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6bDI-1hhqoYn5pFq5WEZpscIVF94BKII7KZCrFZbeKL4I2Pnm5cChFK9QOnnUel1AlMcw7XtdnlhFU_ZI98zk5S2Qc1CAP8vzHyas08DtsHBL41CXnWlbBvbxpg5mSl_l4aSAYxfi1c/s1600/Terry%2527s+Toffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6bDI-1hhqoYn5pFq5WEZpscIVF94BKII7KZCrFZbeKL4I2Pnm5cChFK9QOnnUel1AlMcw7XtdnlhFU_ZI98zk5S2Qc1CAP8vzHyas08DtsHBL41CXnWlbBvbxpg5mSl_l4aSAYxfi1c/s200/Terry%2527s+Toffee.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>Terry Opalek’s artisan toffee has become a fixture at the Academy Awards banquet for good reason: the rich flavors are creatively conceived and the quality is top-notch. In addition to gift boxes of toffee, you can also indulge your loved ones with biscotti, granola and other treats. Check them out by visiting the store or order online.<br />
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<b>Gene’s Sausage Shop</b><br />
4750 N Lincoln Ave., Chicago<br />
(773) 728-7243; <a href="http://www.genessausageshop.com/">www.genessausageshop.com</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9C0hjTYM4FqYk6L9JrVQBO3SPoYGHHmtJK2NVgF14043Wd-F_wf3zchn9zvsmeVH9nHr589_VwF4iN5BQvlKplK_hqxpVhyphenhyphenDbt1D8DtHldsk6Q_lBPsCePabhBmyN8Sezp9QICGzmeo/s1600/Gene%2527s+Sausage+Shop+basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9C0hjTYM4FqYk6L9JrVQBO3SPoYGHHmtJK2NVgF14043Wd-F_wf3zchn9zvsmeVH9nHr589_VwF4iN5BQvlKplK_hqxpVhyphenhyphenDbt1D8DtHldsk6Q_lBPsCePabhBmyN8Sezp9QICGzmeo/s1600/Gene%2527s+Sausage+Shop+basket.jpg" /></a></div>Gene’s is one of Chicago’s newest food boutiques. It’s a deluxe Polish deli and bakery in Lincoln Square, the likes of which you’ve probably never seen before. The beautiful space is filled with homemade foods including meats, bakery, salads, blintzes, pierogies and shelf after shelf of unique packaged foods from Europe. They will make up custom food gift baskets, so head on over and treat your senses while you design the perfect food gift.<br />
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<b>The Spice House</b><br />
1512 North Wells St., Chicago<br />
312-274-0378; <a href="http://www.thespicehouse.com/">www.thespicehouse.com</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAZ9eW11ZuK-THb9_ymSYSuI2KAD-Xb9jBtsR5xVNgfou8-NTv7myBRQMOVK-Vj3gZUcuBgpunFcnr4Fy7bKCddrTLvgLQefyHEDo8dB_oF3ToND5ff21zt-D1G2GJwCD0Nd3NxYy96I/s1600/Spice+House+gift-box-pile-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAZ9eW11ZuK-THb9_ymSYSuI2KAD-Xb9jBtsR5xVNgfou8-NTv7myBRQMOVK-Vj3gZUcuBgpunFcnr4Fy7bKCddrTLvgLQefyHEDo8dB_oF3ToND5ff21zt-D1G2GJwCD0Nd3NxYy96I/s320/Spice+House+gift-box-pile-small.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Food lovers in the know are quite aware of the difference that quality, fresh spices make in their home cooking. So, a wonderful gift for your home chef friends and relatives is a collection of freshly packed spices from this iconic spice emporium. The store features spice collections from all over the world; you can buy individual spices or pre-packed collections that will cover a wide range of cuisines. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. You’re certain to learn something interesting while you’re there.<br />
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<b>Chicago French Market</b><br />
131 N. Clinton (between Randolph & Washington), Chicago<br />
Hours: 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat.; closed Sun.<br />
www.chicagofrenchmarket.com<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46cbnHtkEd8Jd_Pvh6Ll6Ja3uxJnAlIgY6qtIacn7zjaDvMgacjoqUxlWGPTqYAMU2XM4VX3LPf2MGoaK9serNBkfVFjvmmo_cfofKbluF5FoUo8OX2ic1MrAgrg22hYdJwRnr5EOqLA/s1600/Pastoral+at+French+Market.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46cbnHtkEd8Jd_Pvh6Ll6Ja3uxJnAlIgY6qtIacn7zjaDvMgacjoqUxlWGPTqYAMU2XM4VX3LPf2MGoaK9serNBkfVFjvmmo_cfofKbluF5FoUo8OX2ic1MrAgrg22hYdJwRnr5EOqLA/s320/Pastoral+at+French+Market.png" width="149" /></a></div>This fabulous year-round indoor market is located at MetraMarket, just north of the Ogilvie Transportation Center. The Market boasts 15,000 sq. ft. of European-inspired shops which carry fresh locally grown, artisan-made produce, meats, fish and seafood, breads, cheese, chocolates, and patisserie and gift items. Enjoy this taste of France in Chicago, bring family and friends and, while you’re there, pick up some beautiful and delicious gifts for the holidays. Great food gifts include pastry delights at Vanille; artisan chocolates from Canady Le Chocolatier; artisan cheese, breads and wine at Pastoral, and hand-crafted flavored pastas at Papperdelle’s.<br />
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<b>Bella Bacinos</b><br />
75 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago; 36 S. La Grange Rd., La Grange, IL<br />
(312) 263-2350 or (708) 352-8882; <a href="http://www.bacinos.com/">www.bacinos.com</a><br />
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If you’ve been in Chicago for any amount of time, you’re probably familiar with Bacino’s and Bella Bacinos. These Italian trattorias serve up some of Chicago’s finest pizza and they’re all made with 100 percent real cheese, which makes them America’s first heart healthy pizza. Now you can order stuffed half-baked pizzas and have them shipped overnight to your pizza-loving friends and relatives, ready for finishing in the oven.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswP_jbTl0pUZmH5sGGiXGxDeS4S0mOfbySmWthKo1sQIzS917oz8YVYVTn7qbpEqiaQMUqqagTtMlZEXn9d2NSTzHzUOzZUyjrf_Q-bOqrTYHBbBMgZMP9yGz2MwFPUNkmbq73jXtdKI/s1600/BacinosWacker-45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswP_jbTl0pUZmH5sGGiXGxDeS4S0mOfbySmWthKo1sQIzS917oz8YVYVTn7qbpEqiaQMUqqagTtMlZEXn9d2NSTzHzUOzZUyjrf_Q-bOqrTYHBbBMgZMP9yGz2MwFPUNkmbq73jXtdKI/s200/BacinosWacker-45.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><br />
A small (10" serving two to three) stuffed half-baked pizza is $45.99 including shipping and a medium (12" serving three to four) is $55.99. Choose from Cheese, Spinach Supreme, Broccoli Bacinos, Very Vegetarian, Bacinos Special, Pesto Bacinos and Hawaiian. Overnight shipping is via Periship, a division of FedEx; pizza will arrive between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. the next day. Add a bottle of red or white, pizza-friendly wine with a pizza order as a special package for a grand total of $85.<br />
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<b>Koepsels Farm Market</b><br />
Baileys Harbor, WI<br />
(920) 854-2433; <a href="http://www.koepsels.com/">www.koepsels.com</a><br />
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Koepsels is a Door County, Wisconsin, institution and gives you an opportunity to send made on premises Midwestern packaged food gifts anywhere. So go to their website (www.koepsels.com) and design your own food gift collection online. You’ll find a rich selection of jams and jellies, no sugar jams, butters, pie fillings, canned goods, pickled goods, dried goods, cheese and salad dressings, all nicely packaged.<br />
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Jam and jellies include both traditional and creative varieties: red chopped cherry, whole cherry, red cherry/red raspberry, cherry amaretto, red hot raspberry, blueberry/cherry, hot pepper jelly, strawberry, peach, rhubarb, red currant, boysenberry, apricot, blackberry, apple, apple cinnamon, cranberry. If you prefer a no-sugar added jam, try blackberry, strawberry, peach, red cherry, blueberry, strawberry rhubarb, just to name some. There are many more food items, so browse the aisles online.<br />
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<div class="WfxFaxNum"><st1:personname w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Cindy Kurman</span></st1:personname><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"> Barrie and <st1:personname w:st="on">Lee Barrie</st1:personname> are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-64271071535118880532010-12-28T15:00:00.000-06:002010-12-28T15:00:26.573-06:00The Michelin Guide to Chicago Restaurants: It's A Simple Yes or No Question: "Was it good?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">by <a href="mailto:lbarrie@kurman.com">Lee Barrie</a> and <a href="mailto:prcindy@kurman.com">Cindy Kurman</a></div>reprint from <b><i>StreetWise Magazine</i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm0x8-5-dTGy8BI05qH44gOpGiZMupEYs2Hp9DTmqvOIss0GPRi5lpK8w3ak3nvtLMoEEdAqyw1AVRCrSp4pq6HnuOvzo17p7mydiU_HZvenVKfGDxQEEi3phIZNnTw2gd2G87FWVZOE/s1600/Michelin+Guide+Chicago+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm0x8-5-dTGy8BI05qH44gOpGiZMupEYs2Hp9DTmqvOIss0GPRi5lpK8w3ak3nvtLMoEEdAqyw1AVRCrSp4pq6HnuOvzo17p7mydiU_HZvenVKfGDxQEEi3phIZNnTw2gd2G87FWVZOE/s200/Michelin+Guide+Chicago+Cover.jpg" width="119" /></a></div><br />
When word got out on November 16 that Michelin (yes, the tire company) was about to launch the first ever Michelin Guide to Chicago Restaurants, there was a feeding frenzy of speculation in Chicago’s culinary circles as to which restaurants would be included and with how many stars. During the next 24 hours the media, bloggers, as well as the social media mavens were abuzz, nonstop, with commentary about who was included, who was left out and who deserved its designated number of stars.<br />
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Michelin is considered by many to be the most influential and credible restaurant rating source in the world. The fact that there is now a Michelin Guide Chicago is proof that the Windy City has taken its place among the preeminent culinary centers of the world.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG_ROhqzLAlv4H1h-gcbiST78C7Cf4brWjh-_5RQwjq_miRcGuX2p25nhU4MAXjpoP6mBhWxczWPezU1thINTDVm_GDJMDyY_ER1G0j-bBuWhry_3aG2C6VwSppYKP9tGHQLGQx5YMWgo/s1600/Jean-Luc+with+Laurent+and+Grant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG_ROhqzLAlv4H1h-gcbiST78C7Cf4brWjh-_5RQwjq_miRcGuX2p25nhU4MAXjpoP6mBhWxczWPezU1thINTDVm_GDJMDyY_ER1G0j-bBuWhry_3aG2C6VwSppYKP9tGHQLGQx5YMWgo/s200/Jean-Luc+with+Laurent+and+Grant.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Three stars is Michelin’s top rating, and any restaurant that earns three stars works very hard to keep them. Three star restaurants represent the best of the best—the finest food in the world. In Chicago, there are now two three-star restaurants: Alinea and L2O.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Throughout all of the buzz, there were two overarching questions: How do the restaurants get rated and were Chicago restaurants rated according to the same standard as European restaurants? We were invited to sit down for a one-on-one interview with Jean-Luc Naret, the director of the Michelin Guides, which we eagerly accepted. Our meeting with Mr. Naret and other Michelin representatives was very cordial and informative. One lasting impression stood out: people simply don’t understand how Michelin goes about rating restaurants and this is one reason there tends to be so much controversy surrounding them. But as the Michelin folks admitted, controversy goes with the territory.<br />
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Rather than discussing the why’s and wherefores of who was included in the Michelin Guide Chicago, we’ve decided to do our best to explain how the Michelin ratings work.<br />
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<b><u>The Inspectors</u></b><br />
The individuals who have the enviable task of eating their way through Chicago’s culinary spots are called “inspectors.” They are not journalists or food critics. They are, in fact, full-time employees of Michelin who anonymously travel from restaurant to restaurant and hotel to hotel. Their job is to determine the quality of the food and dining experience offered to the ordinary diner. Inspectors pay their own bills and make no mention of who they are or why they are there. According to Naret, they have been in the hotel or restaurant business for at least ten years or have formal training in the hotel or culinary field. “They have to be passionate about food, have an eye for talent, and know what they’re talking about.”<br />
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There are ten American inspectors—there were 3,500 applicants for the job. Inspectors go through a rigorous training period before they are allowed to visit restaurants on their own. They spend months in Europe and Japan and must accompany existing inspectors on many restaurant visits before they are set loose to do their own thing.<br />
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Some of the American inspectors come from Chicago. Three of the ten American inspectors live in Chicago, where they are responsible for staying informed about new restaurants and, in general, monitoring the local culinary scene. They were involved in rating restaurants for the first American Michelin Guide (New York) and also spent time in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, rating restaurants in those cities.<br />
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Naret commented on the inspectors: “We invest a lot in these people. They are passionate about revealing the talent of the chef. We call them ‘revealers of talents.’ We’re not looking at the reputation of the chef. We’re looking at the personality of the chef on the plate. They [the inspectors] go to restaurants for lunch and dinner every day and they have to fill out a report.”<br />
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<b><u>Independent Choice</u></b><br />
Michelin makes this point clearly: Restaurants do not pay to be included in the Guide. If they are in the Michelin Guide Chicago, they were chosen independently by the inspectors. The restaurants are visited by both the American-based inspectors and inspectors from Europe, to insure consistency in ratings on a global level. For the most important selections, specific inspectors from around the globe are brought in to dine at the restaurant and provide their opinion. The starred restaurants may have, in fact, been visited ten times. The choices represent, in the opinion of the Michelin staff, the best restaurants in their respective categories.<br />
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To answer one key question: Chicago restaurants are rated according to the same criteria and by the same standards as restaurants anywhere in the world. Three stars in the U.S. is equivalent to three stars in Europe, Japan or elsewhere.<br />
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<b><u>Comfort Classifications Are Separate from Food Ratings</u></b><br />
Michelin distinguishes comfort (service, décor, ambiance, style) from the quality of the food. Restaurants that are notable for their charming décor or ambiance are noted with a red-colored comfort rating rather than a black-colored rating.<br />
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A restaurant can have a high comfort rating without having a high food rating and vice versa. This is arguably why Michelin ratings are so often misunderstood by both culinary professionals and the public. Theoretically, a restaurant can have a high star-rating for food and yet be only moderate in comfort and service. Restaurants with a high food rating but a more moderate comfort rating are often casual restaurants which offer excellent food, yet they tone down the service or comfort a bit to stay within a certain restaurant genre, style or price point.<br />
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<b><u>Rating the Food</u></b><br />
When someone talks about “how many stars” a restaurant has received from Michelin, he or she is talking strictly about how the inspectors have rated the food, period. “We believe when you go to a restaurant, it’s really to eat food,” says Naret. Inspectors must answer two simple questions: “is it good or not good?” and “will I recommend this restaurant to a friend of mine?” He points out that the inspectors are, most importantly, rating restaurants for their readers, not for the benefit of the chef or the industry.<br />
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What do the inspectors pay attention to when it comes to the food? According to Naret, inspectors note “how the restaurants choose produce [ingredients] and how are the flavors kept? Is there personality on the plate? Is there consistency across the menu and across visits?” He noted that generally the difference between a two-star and three-star rating is consistency.<br />
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Most of the restaurants in the Michelin Guide Chicago do not have a star rating. This doesn’t mean they have mediocre food. It simply means that the food doesn’t meet the global standard needed to earn a star. Each of the 342 restaurants listed in the Guide has proven it has good food. As Naret explained, “We recommend a restaurant because we know the food is good. If you have a beautiful restaurant and the food is not good, it isn’t in the Guide.”<br />
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<b><u>Ratings for Less Expensive Restaurants: Bib Gourmand</u></b><br />
In today’s economic times, in which diners are more frugal, it has been fairly common for upscale restaurants to have re-thought their menu, opting for less expensive ingredients (but not necessarily lowering the quality) in order to lower the price of the food. For example, we know of one restaurant that developed a simply delicious appetizer using pork belly instead of foie gras. There are also many restaurants which have always been lower priced but offer great food in a casual environment. To ensure that these restaurants are given proper recognition, Michelin has given the special “Bib Gourmand” designation to restaurants the inspectors feel are a particularly good value—and less than $40. “Bib Gourmand restaurants are the inspectors’ favorites,” says Naret. “They are the ‘little secret black list.’”<br />
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Naret explained that people recognize Bib Gourmand as equivalent to a Michelin star. He also noted that during the past two years, American chefs were much more receptive than their European counterparts to the fact that the recession was coming and they were more creative in putting menus together at a price point that would attract more customers.<br />
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<b><u>Drilling Down to the Details</u></b><br />
Although some people reading the Michelin Guide Chicago may focus their attention on the star ratings almost exclusively, Michelin understands that, when it comes to choosing a restaurant, the deciding factor may be a specific characteristic that makes it preferable. For example, a wine aficionado would most likely prefer a restaurant with an excellent wine program over one that has a limited wine program, even if the food quality and the comfort classification were approximately the same. Similarly, a diner may need valet parking or wheelchair accessibility and won’t visit a restaurant without these features.<br />
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Michelin makes note of important details using a variety of special designations (i.e. symbols): price category, notable wine list, notable cocktail list, notable sake list, valet parking, wheelchair accessibility, outdoor dining, cash only, late night dining offered, small plates offered, brunch offered.<br />
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<b><u>Where Does Chicago Stand as a Culinary Center?</u></b><br />
According to Naret, what makes Chicago unique as a food center is that “it has some very avant garde and creative chefs…and on the other side of the scale you have very good restaurants where you eat incredible [food]. You will never find a pizza place in a French Guide or any other Guide. You will find them in the Michelin Guide Chicago because there is great pizza. You will find great hot dogs and great breakfasts. This is the only place in the world where you actually have a list of breakfast places. People go for big breakfasts here [Chicago]. We don’t do that in any other place.”<br />
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<b><u>Where Does the Michelin Guide Chicago Go From Here?</u></b><br />
Nothing in the Michelin Guide Chicago is cast in stone. “Every restaurant in the Guide will be revisited by the inspectors, perhaps even tomorrow,” says Naret. “Any restaurant that was close but didn’t make it into the Guide, will be revisited. Any new restaurant that has the potential to be in the Guide will be visited next year.”<br />
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This is the first edition of the Michelin Guide Chicago and, as Naret predicts, “It’s definitely going to grow. As we expand to the other suburbs and the more we go deeper into the selection, I’m sure the numbers will grow. No doubt, in three to five years we’ll have more than 500 restaurants in the Guide.”<br />
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As Chicagoans, we wondered about the steakhouses. It’s a Chicago staple and the list keeps growing. There are many steakhouses in the Chicago Guide, but none with stars. Naret was quick to point out that there is only one starred steakhouse in the U.S.: Peter Luger in New York. “It’s something to shoot for in Chicago,” we all agreed.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyEgofoWHw1Nxxwu0OFxMGqrqsg-MUfszL7K1Bz-AMP04dbrerHucdhhPZuSGMOTGAt1_-23PjfIVwocd51daVkYJzSHYEppmdcMqznvBf7nlBT8pVObFTwMpa-stSQ9fP3809_S75gs/s1600/Jean-Luc+and+Lee+Barrie+lr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyEgofoWHw1Nxxwu0OFxMGqrqsg-MUfszL7K1Bz-AMP04dbrerHucdhhPZuSGMOTGAt1_-23PjfIVwocd51daVkYJzSHYEppmdcMqznvBf7nlBT8pVObFTwMpa-stSQ9fP3809_S75gs/s200/Jean-Luc+and+Lee+Barrie+lr.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Our advice</b>: Do yourself a favor and purchase the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Michelin-Red-Guide-Chicago-2011/dp/2067156527/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1291410443&sr=1-1">Michelin Guide Chicago</a>. We’re impressed with the level of detail and objectivity that goes into it and we also know that, to keep any publication alive, one must support it. It’s worth the investment. You’ll love the way it is organized by neighborhoods and you’ll like the special section on breakfast specialists. We love breakfast, and Chicago is our kind of town. Bon appetit—or we should say, “Thanks for the grub, Bub!”Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-28225024543973376732010-12-02T19:12:00.000-06:002010-12-02T19:12:45.054-06:00Fogo de Chao Delivers on Its Promise: Great Feast for the Carnivores<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ikw5FfUa63Ke4aRvRbe_EYPo-SkwJATBZYyXke1M5zuFUVIFXlnvQ39WZwFb5kFdYOf-_s2EQiUhiaGbbl1Fwwwq2AHsgpbSkM5dXs4_LKTboxT4g0X3fKkTjNpL6-B1w-MRMoTPkTM/s1600/fogo+de+chao+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ikw5FfUa63Ke4aRvRbe_EYPo-SkwJATBZYyXke1M5zuFUVIFXlnvQ39WZwFb5kFdYOf-_s2EQiUhiaGbbl1Fwwwq2AHsgpbSkM5dXs4_LKTboxT4g0X3fKkTjNpL6-B1w-MRMoTPkTM/s1600/fogo+de+chao+logo.jpg" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Fogo de Chao</b></span><br />
661 N. La Salle St., Chicago<br />
(312) 932-9330; www.fogodechao.com<br />
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<b>Hours:</b><br />
<b>Lunch: </b>11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Mon.-Fri.<br />
<b>Dinner:</b> 5-10 p.m., Mon-Thurs.; 5-10:30 p.m., Fri.; 4:30-10 p.m., Sat.; 4-9 p.m., Sun.<br />
<b>Prices:</b> lunch, $26.50 or $19.50 for salad bar only; dinner, $46.50 or $24.50 for salad bar only<br />
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By <a href="mailto:lbarrie@kurman.com">Lee Barrie </a>and <a href="mailto:kurmanstaff@kurman.com">Cindy Kurman</a><br />
Reprinted from <b>DineWise</b> column in <b>StreetWise Magazine</b><br />
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We were talking about where we might want to travel for a warm winter getaway and we thought of Rio and other South American destinations. The conversation became more interesting and focused when we went to Fogo de Chao for a dinner hosted by the Chicago Brazilian Consulate. There were many Brazilian guests at this event us as well as many local Brazilian Americans. Although we can’t claim any Brazilian heritage, we were told we have Brazilian soul, which we take as a wonderful compliment.<br />
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Our dinner companions seemed very pleased to be at Fogo de Chao, a fact that speaks to the authenticity of this restaurant, which features the gaucho way of preparing meat in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Rather than preparing a special menu for this event, the restaurant introduced the group to its signature Fogo de Chao dining experience and then set us loose to satiate ourselves on their special kind of feast.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjPqZ2d-r6IaMGi61Egudmib9uPUlCCo0Dc7M5XksmduNzj3Uuav8YjhIh50xaavYNlX5MsKJ6QJsq4sVK8H_SmWBZxB_tVgHopLgwmSMEtCTSiCh8B4uKNlhdNGWJ4DhBeYhGEmvGbIw/s1600/fogo+de+chao+salad+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjPqZ2d-r6IaMGi61Egudmib9uPUlCCo0Dc7M5XksmduNzj3Uuav8YjhIh50xaavYNlX5MsKJ6QJsq4sVK8H_SmWBZxB_tVgHopLgwmSMEtCTSiCh8B4uKNlhdNGWJ4DhBeYhGEmvGbIw/s200/fogo+de+chao+salad+bar.jpg" width="200" /></a>Phase one of the journey began with a stroll to the long salad bar. Starting at one end, we chose from the many ingredients that together form a hearty mixed green salad. Fresh spinach, spring mix, hearts of palm, asparagus, fresh and sun-dried tomatoes and many other items. As we turned the corner, the other side of the salad bar offered a wide range of fresh cheeses, condiments and prepared salads. Coupled with a range of dressings and vinegars, there was more than enough to create an excellent first course that would ensure our meal was well balanced and healthy.<br />
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Returning to our table for phase two, we began a much better than expected feast of grilled meats and side dishes. In total, Fogo de Chao offers more than a dozen different meat and poultry offerings, all mounted on robust swords. The servers (sword carriers, if you will) brought the meat to us; we could choose between a rarer portion or one that’s more well done—a nice personal touch. The server carved the portion off the sword and we captured it with special tongs. The parade of servers, each with a different cut of meat, seemed to go on forever. There is no question that we could have completely stuffed ourselves if we chose; fortunately, we knew when to say no and so we could still walk when we left the restaurant. In reality, it’s a good idea to take a break during the meal so that you can regain a little room for that special cut of meat that you crave when it finally comes around.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J2jkAAjl7fjEA4sqpxAVoWyQgzsSoW5_tdaZJUNfFagiMZD4XbrKMQc2Q6rQxR41IVcukdXJz7bn6DKU0hPAM4eQMpR1s7_pX1L_arLZWy3_75kxe0-7lnHd0UEv7xgQuXAXclW3DC4/s1600/fogo+de+chao+meat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J2jkAAjl7fjEA4sqpxAVoWyQgzsSoW5_tdaZJUNfFagiMZD4XbrKMQc2Q6rQxR41IVcukdXJz7bn6DKU0hPAM4eQMpR1s7_pX1L_arLZWy3_75kxe0-7lnHd0UEv7xgQuXAXclW3DC4/s200/fogo+de+chao+meat.jpg" width="118" /></a>Here’s a rundown on some of the cuts of meat offered, and those we really liked. First, we must mention that our Brazilian friends were very pleased that Picanha (pronounced pea-CAN-ya) was one of the first to be served. This is a prime cut of top sirloin that is very popular in southern Brazil. It wasn’t one of our favorites, but it is good and very authentic. Another authentic dish is Alcatra, another top sirloin cut from southern Brazil.<br />
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The Filet Mignon was extremely tender and juicy. It was one of our favorites. Fogo de Chao serves it with or without a bacon wrap. Another very flavorful and tasty cut was the Fraldinha (pronounced fral-DIN-ya) a well-marbled bottom sirloin.<br />
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If you’re not the beef lovers we are, you’ll still have much to enjoy. We were very pleased with the Cordeiro (pronounced cor-DAY-roo) the grilled, mint-marinated lamb. Both lamb chops and leg of lamb were offered and both were delicious and tender. Personally, we liked the chops better but both were worth choosing. Poultry lovers have two varieties of chicken to choose from. Our favorites were the chicken breasts wrapped in bacon. The grilled chicken legs were moist and tender, even if somewhat bland, but that may a good thing if you’re not a fan of spicy food.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivw7YFyydQibjHECpJ4qMIGKDDo7tB60NZ644c4lgsNQQJeoInvlsQ5LS9I7M9KwlrwH6Fio_oN3P07M4xVdAH2PEVQknj-41IHyKQNdm-7f86SNjC3rP7lVrcTEIypliefJpjRxDwkgk/s1600/fogo+de+chao+linguica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivw7YFyydQibjHECpJ4qMIGKDDo7tB60NZ644c4lgsNQQJeoInvlsQ5LS9I7M9KwlrwH6Fio_oN3P07M4xVdAH2PEVQknj-41IHyKQNdm-7f86SNjC3rP7lVrcTEIypliefJpjRxDwkgk/s200/fogo+de+chao+linguica.jpg" width="118" /></a></div>Among the pork selections were the Linguica (pronounced lin-GWEE-sa), grilled cured pork sausage with a barbecue tang, and the Lombo (pronounced LOM-bo), grilled pork loin. The sausage was zesty and fun; the loin was a little less seasoned than we’re used to and we probably could have taken a pass.<br />
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Rib lovers can choose from two styles. If you’re a bone-in steak fan, you’ll love the Costela (pronounced co-STELL-a), which are beef ribs grilled for several hours. They were juicy and flavored in a very straightforward manner, with only slight seasoning, but needed nothing more. The Costela de Porco (pronounced co-STELL-a gee PO-co), are Fogo de Chao’s baby back pork ribs. These were very tender and flavorful and the dry rub seasoning came through nicely.<br />
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The meats are accompanied by a host of family-style side dishes. The most addictive were the pão de queijo (warm cheese bread), small popover-like rolls. We could have eaten these until we burst. Other favorites were the crispy polenta and the caramelized bananas.<br />
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There really isn’t enough room for dessert, but we must admit Fogo de Chao has a great selection. The Brazilians in our group were thrilled to get the signature Papaya Cream, while we indulged in the Molten Chocolate Cake and the New York style cheese cake. All were very good; surprisingly so.<br />
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All in all, Fogo de Chao delivered on its promise. The service was well orchestrated and professional; the servers seemed quite happy with their roles and the food was very good. Fogo de Chao may be a haven for tourists and convention-goers in Chicago, but by no means should Chicagoans write it off. We really enjoyed the experience.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of <a href="http://www.kurman.com/">Kurman Communications, Inc</a>., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at w<a href="http://ww.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">ww.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>.</span>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-26131227728192651062010-11-15T11:34:00.001-06:002010-11-16T13:07:02.260-06:00Saigon Sisters: Making its mark with delicious modern Vietnamese cuisine in Chicago<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdKCQpFjM8v4sySlcTr6eGOktctjApgDmAGQfGbl3HnUwPdBoKSyCMoey8zixStjYeygKJPiJZhCA_sdXFaOkqfyQyfq2BiaNnlXADoXyezklwIlJVN-Ei0LZ8qB1_PDNYsg-KVaPJv4/s1600/Saigon+Sisters+Restaurant+logo+official.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdKCQpFjM8v4sySlcTr6eGOktctjApgDmAGQfGbl3HnUwPdBoKSyCMoey8zixStjYeygKJPiJZhCA_sdXFaOkqfyQyfq2BiaNnlXADoXyezklwIlJVN-Ei0LZ8qB1_PDNYsg-KVaPJv4/s1600/Saigon+Sisters+Restaurant+logo+official.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:place w:st="on"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Saigon</span></b></st1:place><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> Sisters</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on">567 W. Lake St.</st1:street>, <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city></st1:address> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">(312) 496-0090; <a href="http://www.saigonsisters.com/">www.saigonsisters.com</a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hours:</i> Lunch/late lunch, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; Dinner/after hours: 5-10 p.m., Mon.-Thurs., 5 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">Chicago French Market location (lunch only): 10 a.m.- 7:30 p.m.; Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Prices:</i> lunch sandwiches, $7-8; dinner entrees: $12-$19</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">You should get to know Mary Nguyen Aregoni and Theresa Nguyen. They’re so not clichés. They are, in fact, Vietnamese sisters who own Saigon Sisters, the Vietnamese restaurants. The first location is a very popular kiosk at the Chicago French Market. The new, second location is a sit-down restaurant a couple of blocks north, at Lake and <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Clinton</st1:place></st1:city>.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Uwa8oKyIMd15PvKoubaxu5EN7wj2JPOQ_ZRRODtnxljWPtXAS02Y6wFMwS1BsL9lbjiMjFTcGBZAf2b1AspFN_KOHpC5YRTuyK1JiyaukHXf2KDBRTP6j1jz-jaCA48NMeFRnqxNt5Q/s1600/Lamb+Luc+Lac+PA150519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Uwa8oKyIMd15PvKoubaxu5EN7wj2JPOQ_ZRRODtnxljWPtXAS02Y6wFMwS1BsL9lbjiMjFTcGBZAf2b1AspFN_KOHpC5YRTuyK1JiyaukHXf2KDBRTP6j1jz-jaCA48NMeFRnqxNt5Q/s200/Lamb+Luc+Lac+PA150519.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">Why do we say these delightful ladies are not clichés? After all, there are many, many immigrant families who start their lives in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region> by opening a neighborhood ethnic restaurant. What makes the Nguyen sisters unique is that they came to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Chicago</st1:place></st1:city> as kids and became quite assimilated into the American lifestyle. Then they did what most American kids do—they pursued “normal” careers. After college, Mary wound up in marketing at Procter & Gamble, while Theresa went to <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">New York</st1:place></st1:state> to pursue her career in fashion design.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">Only then did they go back to their roots by opening a neighborhood ethnic restaurant. In 2009, after, months and months of planning, they formulated their Saigon Sisters concept. They started in the new Chicago French Market, serving lunch only. They chose traditional ingredients, but they use ingredients the way so many of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Chicago</st1:place></st1:city>’s best chefs use them—creatively, with a modern twist. It works. Saigon Sisters has become one of the most successful vendors at the Market.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLFnn2Rb0zKTdZawrbSd5ShCuC9Bm6eQs71c_i5w0tltCRG_bV8Cgsj_2rnAXIMz-KHrNvIFNAIc01tbUF2Dlc5RgTCLkktc9R1-vZXN5SxNJ4k8LOVldRIvV4cKJwJDxnEjHgtUdctRg/s1600/Chef+Matt+Eversman+20101014_241+lr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLFnn2Rb0zKTdZawrbSd5ShCuC9Bm6eQs71c_i5w0tltCRG_bV8Cgsj_2rnAXIMz-KHrNvIFNAIc01tbUF2Dlc5RgTCLkktc9R1-vZXN5SxNJ4k8LOVldRIvV4cKJwJDxnEjHgtUdctRg/s200/Chef+Matt+Eversman+20101014_241+lr.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">But the story doesn’t end there. Phase two of their nontraditional American dream kicked in when they began planning a second location, independent of the French Market. Their goal was to offer the same delicious food during lunchtime but take it up a notch or two for dinner. This is where the story gets interesting. They began a search for the right chef and they found it in the young, very personable Matt Everson, who has paid his culinary dues at Charlie Trotter’s and May Street Market, among others. He’s ambitious, he knows a thing or two about excellent cooking, and he loves Asian cuisine.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">Working as a team, the sisters and the staff (along with their mother, Mama Nguyen, herself an entrepreneurial success who had a large, thriving marketplace in Saigon), have designed a dinner menu that takes Vietnamese cooking to a beautiful and delicious level. They’ve also kept to their dream of having a casual, come-as-you-are place. The food is great and the atmosphere is hip, unpretentious and totally casual.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">The space is small (only 32 seats) but the 20-foot ceilings give diners an amazing feeling of space and the floor-to-ceiling windows provide a surreal (i.e. great) view of Chicago’s “L” tracks and surrounding buildings, especially at night. The seating is contemporary, woodsy and comfortable. The place and the people exude warmth, making it a fun gathering place.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;">The food? At lunchtime Saigon Sisters gets busy, as people enjoy the variety of foods that are arguably better than they have had at other Vietnamese restaurants. The lunchtime draws are Bánh Bao (steamed rice buns), Phở (noodle and broth dishes), Bánh Mi (sandwiches), and Gòi Cuón (spring rolls; choose shrimp or tofu).</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 5.5in 5.75in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">The Bánh Bao are served open faced (taco style). If you get a full order of three, you get a complete meal with ample vegetables and protein; quite filling, perfect for lunchtime. Choose from Caramelized Chicken, Hoisin glazed pork belly or Wagyu beef in coconut milk.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">The Phở (pronounced “fuh”, in case you haven’t been told) portions are large. Pho choices include Beef Phở (sliced beef flank, beef meatball), Vegetarian Phở (sliced tofu & veggies), and Chicken Phở (poached chicken & garlic chips).</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">We love, love, love the Banh Mi sandwiches, which are large, filled with tempting flavor combinations. Typically we will buy two, cut them in half and share. Among our favorites are the Classic (American ham, French country pate, mayo), The Porky<b> </b>Glazed Pork Belly <b>(</b>braised pork belly, pho flavors, hoisin glaze, mayo), The Frenchman <b>(</b>duck confit, pickled mustard seeds, candied kumquat, rouille), the Vegetarian (lemongrass, teriyaki tofu, red peppers), and the Sun Tanned Cow<b> </b>(coconut milk, braised Wagyu beef, kaffir lime leaf). <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87adlSd3-4HcaJnqiZF6c7MD2KehKbOzCAOtudDg62YAyd-alwwD-Rzx-qAUnlrdnqmfxhvhsMJqO15L9Ma49CLtHUsLrJXLMdJJRS-y27R_NI2S_92bIhFiIY3BeVHYEBlLX7wJJXlo/s1600/Papaya+Salad+low+res+by+Cindy+Kurman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87adlSd3-4HcaJnqiZF6c7MD2KehKbOzCAOtudDg62YAyd-alwwD-Rzx-qAUnlrdnqmfxhvhsMJqO15L9Ma49CLtHUsLrJXLMdJJRS-y27R_NI2S_92bIhFiIY3BeVHYEBlLX7wJJXlo/s200/Papaya+Salad+low+res+by+Cindy+Kurman.jpg" width="200" /></a>Once evening arrives, the bustling sandwich-shop atmosphere is transformed into a dinnertime foodie’s delight. Candlelight bathes the tables and the mood is sensual and relaxed. It’s also time for executive chef Matt Everson and his culinary team to delight your taste buds as well as your eyes.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">The dinner menu allows guests to sample some traditional Vietnamese dishes or take a more adventurous journey through the contemporary interpretations. For starters you can enjoy house-made charcuterie, easily shareable, featuring selections chosen by the chef. Another popular beginning is the Caramel Chicken Wings, crispy drummettes and wings in caramel sauce, with lemongrass, ginger and red chiles. These are not your typical chicken wings! We also love the Green Papaya Salad, with cherry tomatoes, red chiles, Thai basil in nuoc cham dressing. It’s a large portion, making it work as a shared appetizer or a vegetarian entrée. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Meat dishes include a delicious Lab Luc Lac, lamb tenderloin seared in XO sauce, with watercress, red onions and broken rice. The watercress is the perfect tangy accompaniment to the sweet lamb. Another delight is the Braised Short Ribs, in tomato sauce, lemongrass, star anise, pickled okra, carrots and pearl onions.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Fish and seafood lovers can indulge in the Lobster Fritter on Sugar Cane, which includes lobster, shrimp mousse, fennel, chayote, with kohlrabi salad and lime ginger dressing. Another dish that can serve as a shared app or a full entrée is the Tuna Tartar, made with grapefruit confit, pickled ginger, scallion oil and a crisp lotus chip. If you’re an octopus fan, you won’t want to miss the Baby Octopus, perfectly grilled confit octopus, togarashi, and black cuttlefish ink rice. A Saigon Sisters specialty is the Sesame Sardines, grilled whole sardines with peppery greens in a sesame lime dressing.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">There are a number of vegetarian selections such as Black Pepper Tofu and Rice, with shallot butter sauce, garlic, ginger, black pepper, soy sauce and broken rice. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">The dessert of note is Che, a smooth butternut squash, coconut milk custard, with sticky rice, vanilla beans and a taro chip. It is unique and delicious; highly recommended. </div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Saigon Sisters offers an atypical (i.e. good) beverage menu, which includes G.U.S. Sodas (wonderful, low sugar, all natural); Nirvana Coconut Water, Orange Aranciata and Vietnamese Coffee. For now it’s B.Y.O.B. until the liquor license comes through.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #818386;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><st1:personname w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cindy Kurman</span></st1:personname><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Barrie and <st1:personname w:st="on">Lee Barrie</st1:personname> are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>.<br />
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Photos by Cindy Kurman<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-91546151018096766852010-10-28T17:05:00.001-05:002010-10-29T11:34:36.097-05:00Road Trip: Culinary Delights in Elkhart LakeSince we seem to be continuing our “Adventures in Autumn” series, we just had to write about our recent weekend excursion to the Elkhart Lake/Sheboygan area, since we found this to be a wonderful getaway, with food that went far beyond our expectations. You might consider this area for your next Chicago escape; there is something magical to experience there at any time of the year, with racing, food and wine events, jazz festivals and much more.<br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Our journey started with a two hour and fifteen minute drive from Chicago to Elkhart Lake, which included one quick stop at Prime Outlets in Gurnee Mills, just past Six Flags’ Great America, and another at a Culver’s drive-through to savor the frozen custard while we drove.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80_0s_fNyX_EHPiYu6VHbTL9RkJHYKl0GsaYJNYyCHXTzFXZ1-o55DIoMy8ojVmdElU_MkWBAK4SbmeideTzf6CZc5BLdXB7rubPgrn-80uzZvRHbpqwvHdqGa9zOWoYpJ3CmEkCx4tI/s1600/Ostoff+Resort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80_0s_fNyX_EHPiYu6VHbTL9RkJHYKl0GsaYJNYyCHXTzFXZ1-o55DIoMy8ojVmdElU_MkWBAK4SbmeideTzf6CZc5BLdXB7rubPgrn-80uzZvRHbpqwvHdqGa9zOWoYpJ3CmEkCx4tI/s320/Ostoff+Resort.jpg" width="320" /></a>We arrived at our destination, <b>The Osthoff Resort </b>in Elkhart Lake (101 Osthoff Ave., Elkhart Lake, WI; 800-876-3399 or 920-876-3366; <a href="http://www.osthoff.com/">www.osthoff.com</a>). This grandiose resort, on spacious grounds, has been in operation for decades and has been updated with two newer buildings, one built in 1997 and the other in 2005. The grounds are beautiful, with a colorful landscaped reflecting pond. The Lake, with a private beach for the resort, is a very short walk away. The beds are extremely comfortable and the accommodations are well appointed. Most rooms are suites with a full kitchen.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Our first meal was a relaxing dinner in <b>Lola’s</b>, The Osthoff’s fine dining restaurant. This elegant and comfortable venue serves American cuisine, with an ample wine selection and courteous service. We enjoyed a pork belly appetizer, roasted beet salad, roasted lamb shank and roasted pork tenderloin, all nicely prepared and unpretentiously presented. The server stopped by with a dessert tray and we shared a marvelous chocolate torte.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Our friends drove to Sheboygan to visit the regionally acclaimed Italian restaurant <b>Trattoria Stefano</b> (522 S. 8<sup>th</sup> St., Sheboygan, WI; 920-452-8455; <a href="http://www.trattoriastefano.com/">www.trattoriastefano.com</a>). The chef/owner is Stefano Viglietti, who has also designed the menu for the excellent Bella Bacinos in LaGrange. The menu is extensive, featuring Stefano’s masterful touch throughout. There is something for everyone who loves quality Italian cuisine, all prepared with top-notch ingredients and TLC.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The next morning we met our friends for breakfast at the resort’s casual spot, <b>Otto’s</b>. The breakfast menu is extensive and everything was made from scratch. The food was exceedingly good, including great coffee, sumptuous blueberry buttermilk pancakes, Johnsonville breakfast sausage (as fresh as can be; Johnsonville is close by) and some hearty omelets. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">That evening we enjoyed a beyond-expectations fish fry at <b>Bo Mallies</b> (N7454 Summit Rd, Plymouth, WI; 920-876-2888) a local standout eatery in Plymouth, right next to Elkhart Lake. The restaurant was packed, for good reason. The appetizers and salads were additively delicious and the fried fish, perch coated in tasty bread crumbs, were crunchy on the outside, moist on the inside and had wonderful flavor. The accompanying French fries were also first rate.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Driving around the “downtown” area of Elkhart Lake, we visited <b>Feed</b> <b>Mill Market </b>(44 Gottfried St., Elkhart Lake, WI; 920-876-3354; www.feedmillshops.com), the local gourmet/specialty food store that was packed with fresh, upscale fish, meats and produce, baked goods and a wide range of other delights. If you want to cook at your weekend residence rather than go out to eat, you can’t go wrong here.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We managed to squeeze in two rounds of golf at the <strong><span style="color: black;">Quit Qui Oc Golf Club </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;">(500 Quit Qui Oc Lane, Elkhart Lake, WI; 920-876-2833; <a href="http://www.quitquioc.com/">www.quitquioc.com</a>), which was quite inexpensive and features 27 attractive holes that are very well maintained and offer a definite challenge. There are numerous golf courses in the area, with the flagship being the stellar Whistling Straits in nearby Kohler, site of a recent PGA Championship.</span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;">After golf, we lunched outside in The Osthoff’s beautiful patio, where we enjoyed truly excellent sandwiches, burgers and salads. The onion rings are to die for. </span></strong></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0WsVEh69lbgEfwGtRqJfxxi-3HPR9nTdF5OuXYUqLP8THdHFxMPsdrvwq7HRGdw5LwEh9HQQRciNjGo3OamAHc7-Hanre-3ZU8JQyy2YwR6ab0Pp_HHLq_vpAjmnYPZdfJXaoGl2hM8/s1600/Paddock+Club+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0WsVEh69lbgEfwGtRqJfxxi-3HPR9nTdF5OuXYUqLP8THdHFxMPsdrvwq7HRGdw5LwEh9HQQRciNjGo3OamAHc7-Hanre-3ZU8JQyy2YwR6ab0Pp_HHLq_vpAjmnYPZdfJXaoGl2hM8/s1600/Paddock+Club+logo.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;">Our final dinner was at a relatively new and destined-to-do-well restaurant known as the </span><span style="color: black;">Paddock Club</span></strong><strong><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"> (61 S. Lake St., Elkhart Lake, WI; 920-876-3288; <a href="http://www.paddockclubelkhartlake.com/">www.paddockclubelkhartlake.com</a>. Serving contemporary American cuisine with European flair, the restaurant is located in </span></strong><span style="color: black;">a restored historic building in Elkhart Lake. Executive Chef </span>Lynn Chisholm knows exactly what she is doing, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. <span style="color: black;">We enjoyed excellently prepared homemade gnocchi, delicious butternut squash soup, fresh salad and a tender, perfectly grilled petit Filet Mignon. Desserts were creative, light and not cloyingly sweet.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPpcP02nvF7quNU-Zq-8rM2zU3CLxn1ehIBkTjiB_xIOg4PcTMrozy_0FMQ3sOpmJYXTURTdg7CMqUN_xNJBVndFEUMQC43ZiY8qqssz6bqNVUvU_QB4Vq6p9YFe5kh1dbkDmwwWEP9w/s1600/Paddock+Club+steak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPPpcP02nvF7quNU-Zq-8rM2zU3CLxn1ehIBkTjiB_xIOg4PcTMrozy_0FMQ3sOpmJYXTURTdg7CMqUN_xNJBVndFEUMQC43ZiY8qqssz6bqNVUvU_QB4Vq6p9YFe5kh1dbkDmwwWEP9w/s200/Paddock+Club+steak.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;">Let us repeat ourselves: when you need to take a break from the big city, consider Elkhart Lake. It’s practically a stone’s throw away and it’s one of the most hospitable places we’ve been in a long time. We’d say “Go Packers!” but let’s not get carried away.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cindy Kurman</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-61943908654895595612010-09-29T11:28:00.000-05:002010-09-29T11:28:35.396-05:00JunoWallet app may be the best for getting and giving gifts, earn points and and more<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAnVne7SFr96TNp55dP6n48Flw2KJjgQUENaUTxK8bIKoe5NsGvnG1dLEK6MSTPO8DTXzNAPy3cOovgGpkiZol9j6A1Bd1MoXTkz2WfcBBCkw8Q62UA4DwPaL3vGuwtAR5nheD9WqJc4/s1600/Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAnVne7SFr96TNp55dP6n48Flw2KJjgQUENaUTxK8bIKoe5NsGvnG1dLEK6MSTPO8DTXzNAPy3cOovgGpkiZol9j6A1Bd1MoXTkz2WfcBBCkw8Q62UA4DwPaL3vGuwtAR5nheD9WqJc4/s1600/Logo.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman</span><u><br />
</u></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Have you heard about JunoWallet? We just came across this relatively new iPhone and Android app that's sure to be the next BIG thing in social gifting. If you enjoy receiving and giving gifts (who doesn't), then JunoWallet is for you. Perhaps more importantly, JunoWallet will introduce you to new businesses and provide you with a real incentive to visit them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisSaj0fGkgVkp-4Aip0L5o6bH7o5K4mD4TpyAzfcvTGj2JUUe1LYYnZ4j6xL0lXBz2ibQ-WYpM_AIUlJ4BPxVPop5bM46xV3c-rSsMmEw5iVmI-YMNeUoPP27ahG5NZ9CtElA3SuosASc/s1600/iphone+photo+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQ26Olv6l-rg7xKzicyw6vHUwRyVmmEJDmshc1_uUuuSPwasf5-2Ko-T_sF0Z_iO-3QfPo6wIdakTyoyIl4vs8k7Xc2JxuSd9iTn2hAifWgonCM0L8rloUI3M5r9liPdde9YuQyw5L2k/s1600/Iphone+photo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQ26Olv6l-rg7xKzicyw6vHUwRyVmmEJDmshc1_uUuuSPwasf5-2Ko-T_sF0Z_iO-3QfPo6wIdakTyoyIl4vs8k7Xc2JxuSd9iTn2hAifWgonCM0L8rloUI3M5r9liPdde9YuQyw5L2k/s200/Iphone+photo+2.jpg" width="113" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This is a win win for you and your favorite businesses. Download the JunoWallet app on your iPhone or Android mobile phone and received promotional mobile gift cards and gift certificates from restaurants, bars, and so much more! There's no cost to you and once you've spent your promotional gift card money, you can reload the card, making it convenient to manage your dining and entertainment dollars.<br />
<br />
You can even earn JunoPoints at your favorite haunts in Chicago and nationwide by linking your JunoWallet to your Foursquare account! Typically, you earn 20 points for each check-in. Once you've accumulated 10,000 points, you'll receive a $100 gift card to that business. In the future, you'll be able to gift and share points among your friends, making it easy to reach your goal.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
To start using JunoWallet, <a href="http://www.junowallet.com/kurman">download</a> the app here<br />
<a href="https://junobe.com/v4/script/dwnld.php5?req=eNoriM9MsTVQK4hPzk9JtTW2MAQANGIFcw%3D%3D" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://junobe.com/img/Banner_Ad.jpg" width="300px" /></a> <br />
and enjoy $1000s of dollars in gift cards and certificates.<br />
<br />
Here's a list of some of its benefits:</div><div style="color: black;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 14px;"><u><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">iPhone, iPad 3G, and Android</span></u></span></span><br />
<ul id="featSecond" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 1em; list-style-image: url("http://www.junowallet.com/img/bullet.png"); list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 14px;">
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Store all your gift card information in one place</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Real time balance checking</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Free downloads of promotional mobile gift cards and certificates</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Redeem promotional mobile gift cards/certificates right from your phone</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Push notification letting you know when a new free promotional gift is available</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Facebook and Twitter sharing to let your friends know about new promotional offers</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Convert Check-ins on Foursquare and JunoWallet into Gift Cards</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Buy gift cards and get bonus gift cards and discounts</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Protect your information with a 4-digit PIN code</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Your information never leaves your device</li>
</span></span></ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 14px;"><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><u><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Android</span></u></span></span><br />
<ul id="featSecond" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 1em; list-style-image: url("http://www.junowallet.com/img/bullet.png"); list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 14px;">
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Optional voice entry of your gift card information</li>
</span></span></ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 14px;"></span></span></div><br />
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For businesses who want to participate, you can <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_748564398">signup for JunoWallet</a><a href="https://junobe.com/retailersignup.php?agent=Cindy+Kurman"> here</a> or contact <a href="mailto:cindy@junowallet.com">cindy@junowallet.com</a> for assistance.<br />
<br />
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>.</span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-16537578847961124272010-09-28T11:18:00.000-05:002010-09-28T11:18:15.327-05:00Chicago French Markets sponsors the Good Food Project, October 2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQEextB-lbyEUiMjLQPEjIrhyphenhyphenW2L8bKe9g4lRRxc6C_iyrJoigmKN7M9GF7YlBgpmeCGogkEkd9uo_cqMUgkqb-tDRhq7LA4wcaeWQn2eK_4VUFUdCDOv7M44c340xoDS1sFnu4-JDxI/s1600/Good+Food+Project+Event+Washington+Park+CROPPED.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521991154111713666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQEextB-lbyEUiMjLQPEjIrhyphenhyphenW2L8bKe9g4lRRxc6C_iyrJoigmKN7M9GF7YlBgpmeCGogkEkd9uo_cqMUgkqb-tDRhq7LA4wcaeWQn2eK_4VUFUdCDOv7M44c340xoDS1sFnu4-JDxI/s200/Good+Food+Project+Event+Washington+Park+CROPPED.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" width="182" /></a><br />
<div><a href="http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/">Chicago French Market</a> is proud to be among the first Chicago-area businesses to support the outstanding work of <a href="http://thegoodfoodproject.org/">The Good Food Project</a>, a not-for-profit organization that brings fun and interactive food tastings to schools to teach kids to become young food critics and help them develop a lifelong love of good food.<br />
<br />
Join Chicago French Market as it welcomes the Good Food Project from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2. With help from Susan Taylor, a <i><a href="http://www.chicagotribune.com/">Chicago Tribune</a></i> food critic, children will learn how to taste like a pro. Each child will be among the first in Chicago to taste the new SweeTango apple along with three other varieties of apples. Upon selecting their favorite apple, the children make an apple slinky to bring home to show friends and family. $5 donation to the Good Food Project per child ages 5-10 (includes one guardian) and tickets can be purchased at the door.<br />
<br />
The Good Food Project’s mission is to introduce different flavors of produce to children in order to develop a lifelong love of good food and healthy living. Visit <a href="http://www.thegoodfoodproject.org/">http://www.thegoodfoodproject.org/</a> for more information.<br />
<br />
Chicago French Market’s support has already provided apple tastings to children at Cleveland Elementary School, Saint Ann Catholic School, CICS Longwood and CICS Washington Park with more to come. Chicago French Market vendors <a href="http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/city_fresh_market">City Fresh Market</a>, <a href="http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/produce_express">Produce Express</a> and <a href="http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/chicago_organics">Chicago Organics</a> provide produce for the event.<br />
<br />
For information about The Good Food Project or to arrange an apple tasting in your child’s school, visit <a href="http://www.thegoodfoodproject.org/">http://www.thegoodfoodproject.org/</a> and contact Susan Taylor at <a href="mailto:goodfoodchicago@gmail.com">goodfoodchicago@gmail.com</a> or 773-648-0068. The Chicago French Market is a proud sponsor of The Good Food Project. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/">http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/</a>.</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-52334619935691693892010-09-17T12:59:00.000-05:002010-09-17T12:59:56.783-05:00When it’s Autumn, it’s Time for Hearty Artisan Beer and Comfort Food<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Popping a cold one is a summertime tradition, but sitting down to indulge in a seriously good brew paired with some hearty comfort food is our idea of a perfect cool weather sport. So as autumn closes in, we thought you might want to make some plans to drop by one of these </span><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicago</span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> hot spots for good food and a memorable beer.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5JWjw5SjzE0bLG6NTpQbKod5f01LpFoH9bIaNNHC7yvX1k4Ue4s19S0btx_9pTKzxnba4duzv6qh9sXSkHMdKYLHA9O0DajFvwjU2mmGWRcV6TwZHSVPwKfFqX_w3gAX0fC1f0f2gw0/s1600/The+Beer+Bistro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5JWjw5SjzE0bLG6NTpQbKod5f01LpFoH9bIaNNHC7yvX1k4Ue4s19S0btx_9pTKzxnba4duzv6qh9sXSkHMdKYLHA9O0DajFvwjU2mmGWRcV6TwZHSVPwKfFqX_w3gAX0fC1f0f2gw0/s320/The+Beer+Bistro.jpg" /></span></a></div><h2 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/brewpub/the-beer-bistro-west-loop/146291/content"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Beer Bistro</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></h2><address><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1061 </span><st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">W. Madison St.</span></st1:address></st1:street><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - </span><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicago</span></st1:city></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <br />
312-433-0013; </span><a href="http://www.thebeerbistro.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">www.thebeerbistro.com</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></address><address><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">STATS: Beers on tap: </span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">20 | Bottled beers: 125<o:p></o:p></span></span></address><address><span lang="EN" style="font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This </span><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">West Loop</span></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> spot is a casual neighborhood place to party with good food and great beer. The beer collection showcases domestic craft beers as well as imported delights, while the eats are focused on comfort bar food. Starters include spinach and artichoke dip with pita chips, baked goat cheese, beer-battered chicken fingers. Sliders come in several varieties; if you order them all you get a basket of fries or tater tots free. Try the cheeseburger, pulled pork, buffalo chicken, patty melt, fried fish, Caprese, turkey or Reuben. Other goodies include nachos, quesadillas, wings, soups, salads and large full size burgers. Here’s a unique burger to try: The Gourmet Burger, on a p</span></span><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">retzel roll with peanut butter, fried egg, bacon & cheddar.</span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-style: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></address><address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span> </address><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnApUrXm5UC2rSlVQNioel6rpr-l7fsGnL27WvSH2ba1i0KfnA7x2FlETX7fH0kuGMkqR-NxYPYiXJIvPki8flJM0nvFK53yC5lXXdWn2BpzTNKjk_Xt21xA2c1lcpc1_vSBUZwpQiOgc/s1600/hopleaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnApUrXm5UC2rSlVQNioel6rpr-l7fsGnL27WvSH2ba1i0KfnA7x2FlETX7fH0kuGMkqR-NxYPYiXJIvPki8flJM0nvFK53yC5lXXdWn2BpzTNKjk_Xt21xA2c1lcpc1_vSBUZwpQiOgc/s1600/hopleaf.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><a href="http://hopleaf.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hopleaf</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5148 N. Clark St</span></st1:address></st1:street><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span class="locality"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicago</span></span></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, </span><st1:state w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">IL</span></st1:state><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><st1:postalcode w:st="on"><span class="postal-code"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">60640</span></span></st1:postalcode></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">773-334-9851; </span><a href="http://www.hopleaf.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">www.hopleaf.com</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">STATS: Beers on tap: 36 | Bottled beers: 300</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hopleaf is a great </span><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicago</span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> institution, not unlike a Belgian abbey. If you haven’t been there, it’s time. This is a beer aficionado’s heaven and the food is casual, creative and very tasty. The beer collection is varied, and there is an exceptionally robust collection of Belgian beers. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="line-height: 12.0pt;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The signature starters are steamed mussels, which you can order Belgian-Style, steamed in Wittekerke white ale with sliced shallots, celery, thyme and bay leaf or steamed in White Wine: with sweet and spicy chorizo, caramelized onions and pepadew peppers. Other interesting starters include the Sausage Plate (organic sausages served with bourbon pancetta, white beans or German potato salad); the Sweet Corn Flan and Crepe (savory flan with sweet pepper caramel and a corn crepe stuffed with assorted local vegetables and goat cheese) and the Rabbit Saddle stuffed with housemade Mortadella sausage. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sandwiches are ambitious: Tilapia Sandwich with lemon pickles, butter lettuce & gribiche sauce; the Duck Reuben featuring Pekin duck breast on marble rye with cranberry cream cheese spread; Cashew Butter and Jelly, made with fig jam and morbier cheese with stilton macaroni and cheese; Organic Montreal-Style brisket on sourdough rye, slow roasted, briefly smoked. For entrees, try the Loch Duart Salmon with cucumber-creme fraiche salad w/walnuts & mint, avocado-banana puree, plantain chips, mache, curry oil; pan roasted Poussin w/summer squash pancakes, minted English shelling peas, roasted carrot puree & herb oil; the Fish Stew is made from tomato-white wine fish broth, sweet corn, bell peppers, red onion, new potatoes, plus Lake Superior whitefish, Loch Duart salmon, Laughing Bird shrimp, Prince Edward Island mussels, and smoked salmon rouille. Another robust choice is the Grilled Gunthorp Farms Pork Tenderloin with sautéed sweet corn, shallots, red peppers, mushrooms, sweet corn spaetzle and tomatillo salsa verde.</span><br />
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<div style="line-height: 12.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><a href="http://jakstap.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jak’s Tap</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGleppVBoIgyL58M8HGrXbiZmiRZ4wlqHhZ673EmcxBAOc0rmkuUMlG02vOrHmGk-fHEdIqg8qAJOHQ47oFu3w6hLWRV3S3rbP0O2Tqb8PFv0VSXOuMdXKZ-tGkiG6KciKNLZLZ5kLBs/s1600/Jak's+Tap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGleppVBoIgyL58M8HGrXbiZmiRZ4wlqHhZ673EmcxBAOc0rmkuUMlG02vOrHmGk-fHEdIqg8qAJOHQ47oFu3w6hLWRV3S3rbP0O2Tqb8PFv0VSXOuMdXKZ-tGkiG6KciKNLZLZ5kLBs/s320/Jak's+Tap.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">901 </span><st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">W. Jackson Blvd.</span></st1:address></st1:street></st1:street><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, </span><st1:city w:st="on"><span class="locality"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicago</span></span></st1:city></st1:address></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(312) 666-1700; </span><a href="http://jakstap.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://jakstap.com</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">STATS: Beers on tap: 48 | Bottled beers: 5</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tucked away in the Greektown/West Loop area is this fun neighborhood bistro where draft beer and a large comfort food menu are the main attractions. The beer selection includes a sizeable collection of American regional brews as well as German, Belgian and Irish favorites. The food is an eclectic variety of American, Southern, Mexican and Italian comfort foods covering lunch and dinner and late night, including excellent egg dishes.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Starters include the popular favorites such as nachos, quesadillas, hamburger or pulled pork sliders, wings and baby back ribs. There is a Six Gun Chili (vegetarian) as well as two Mexican inspired salads—</span><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ensalada Del Rey with chicken, avocado, Yucatan pico, cheese, tomatoes, onion, cucumbers and tortilla strips, and the Fiesta, a taco turkey in a tortilla bowl with black beans, rice, lettuce, pico de gallo, cheese, avocado & sour cream.</span></span></strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pizza lovers can choose from six thin crust varieties or they can concoct their own from a variety of toppings. Sandwiches include a Cubano and a decadent Grilled Cheese as well as a Reuben and Pulled Pork. The burger selection is huge (17 choices, to be exact). If you want to go for the gusto, you can choose entrees such as BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Burritos, Country Fried Chicken, Fish and Chips, and Southwest Steak, </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z6tbP4PzNDBgm73B7mHMyS8Tw-JXN9rRJwRiTTvbn4yYez_BI5Uu8A5MMehXbJiza5UBuzpuUgbW_0hxxKv_83pIch18q0mngJmzyquYrWvC-jN8-6RPOeYl5byARcmaAtBcQlaBrD0/s1600/Mrs+Murphy+%26+Sons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z6tbP4PzNDBgm73B7mHMyS8Tw-JXN9rRJwRiTTvbn4yYez_BI5Uu8A5MMehXbJiza5UBuzpuUgbW_0hxxKv_83pIch18q0mngJmzyquYrWvC-jN8-6RPOeYl5byARcmaAtBcQlaBrD0/s320/Mrs+Murphy+%26+Sons.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><a href="http://www.irishbistro.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3905 N. Lincoln Ave.</span></st1:street><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, </span><st1:city w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicago</span></st1:city></st1:address></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(773) 248-3905; </span><a href="http://www.irishbistro.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">www.irishbistro.com</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">STATS: Beers on tap: 15 | Bottled beers: 40</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This Irish restaurant, owned by the same Murphy’s who own Murphy’s Bleachers next to Wrigley Field, is a </span><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mecca</span></st1:place></st1:city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> for quality, modern Irish food and the beer selection is more than ample to pair with the cuisine. Your meal starts with amazing homemade Irish soda bread and then you can meander through a long menu that includes traditional Irish dishes and a wide variety of contemporary creations made from authentic ingredients. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tasty, unique starters include the Duck and Crispy Brie, featuring “corned” duck breast, crispy brie cheese, arugula and candied walnuts and the Baked Cheese Rarebit, a blend of Irish cheeses with bacon and green onions served with a bread basket. Soups include a rich Guinness and Onion soup with white Irish cheddar and a Potato Leek soup. Salad choices include a Barbecue Salmon Salad with whiskey marmalade barbecue sauce and a Roasted Beet Salad with marinated beets, walnut vinaigrette and Irish Chimay Beer Cheese. Among the nicely conceived entrees are the Beef and Guinness Stew with roasted root vegetables and buttermilk mashed potatoes; Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin in a Murphy’s Bleachers Ale reduction; the Fisherman’s Chowder with Cod, Shrimp, Mussels, Littleneck Clams and Scallops, Yukon Gold Potatoes in a Tomato Saffron Broth and the Grilled Lamb and Figs with a fresh fig chutney, tomato-walnut butter, bleu cheese mash and vanilla balsamic cream.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbHmKDnQ-zXmbZdOBHDHpri6EWKXc4vd7RIPoXP6QwQOFrQtJFZ8eg0LGl5obdM34mxymoxgwz3wazpUStUW2WXTJPG0K6ZIy2XZtnEA1-16tYOSTqBwE2e83jD_WaH4uuGthEKRnHLc/s1600/the+Publican.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbHmKDnQ-zXmbZdOBHDHpri6EWKXc4vd7RIPoXP6QwQOFrQtJFZ8eg0LGl5obdM34mxymoxgwz3wazpUStUW2WXTJPG0K6ZIy2XZtnEA1-16tYOSTqBwE2e83jD_WaH4uuGthEKRnHLc/s320/the+Publican.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><a href="http://thepublicanrestaurant.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Publican</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">837 W. </span><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fulton</span></st1:city></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Market; </span><span class="locality"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chicago</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(312) 733-9555; </span><a href="http://thepublicanrestaurant.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://thepublicanrestaurant.com</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">STATS: Beers on tap: 12 | Bottled beers: 62</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This handsome, wood-toned restaurant is the brainchild of chef Paul Kahan and his multi-award winning culinary team from Blackbird and Avec. There is no question about the quality of the food here. The raw oyster bar is stocked with eight kinds of oysters. Also on the menu are many fish and seafood entrées including yellowtail, ahi tuna, swordfish, scallops and trout. Ham lovers will enjoy the artisan aged ham selection, each served with goat’s milk butter and hearty peasant bread. Other inspired entrées feature suckling pig, sweetbreads, Pot-Au-Feu made with sausage, ribs and pork tenderloin; a delicious half-chicken with summer sausage and frites; ribeye steak and a ham chop with beets, leeks and saba.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><st1:personname w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cindy Kurman</span></span></st1:personname><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Barrie and </span><st1:personname w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lee Barrie</span></st1:personname><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please subscribe to their blog at </span><a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and check out all DineWise articles at </span><a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-44924934375260267852010-09-17T08:39:00.000-05:002010-09-17T08:39:29.328-05:00Just Announced: Locavore Green City Market Menu for September 22<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZw8SNBUgEbf32uTkNQhBG1126HrFmn7gE7eLYdJv5UWxw0D5gwmRECLKz1HBuv7WUlvImF3uMHh5-k2dv2zfU-ksLUJJulPO4meNJOS-FhBWWC1jhLXTP3OxNScyjVs8Iyg84YWRqVpg/s1600/Green+City+Market+Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZw8SNBUgEbf32uTkNQhBG1126HrFmn7gE7eLYdJv5UWxw0D5gwmRECLKz1HBuv7WUlvImF3uMHh5-k2dv2zfU-ksLUJJulPO4meNJOS-FhBWWC1jhLXTP3OxNScyjVs8Iyg84YWRqVpg/s200/Green+City+Market+Logo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;">Join Chicago French Market September 22 for an all local family style dinner to celebrate the Locavore Challenge and share recipes and stories with other supporters. The event takes place 5:30pm-7:30pm, Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park. Tickets are just $25 and can be purchased at the Market, or <a href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/126554">online here.</a></span></span></span><br />
<div class="post-body entry-content" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><u>DINNER MENU</u></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Herb Crusted Lamb with Natural Juices</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Whole Roasted Herb Chicken with</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Caramelized Apple and Onion Compote</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Three Sisters Herb Pasta with Spinach</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Pickled Genesis Cucumbers and Radishes</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">over Green Acres Asian Mesclun Greens with Mint</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Yogurt Dressing</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Grilled Corn with Basil Butter</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Delicata Squash Tart</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Cauliflower and Hard Cooked Egg Salad</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Market Bread and Whipped Butter with Chives</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><u>DESSERT MENU</u></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Poached Plum Galette with Limelight Honey Whipped Cream</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Decaf Coffee, Hot Tea, Mint Iced Tea</span></div><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Everyone will also have the opportunity to participate in an interactive community discussion based on their Locavore experience! Help The group frame this discussion by filling out our Locavore Discussion <a href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/locavorediscussion" style="color: #215670; text-decoration: none;">Survey</a> - just </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6 simple questions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Growing Organic Vegetables in Your Own Backyard with Jeanne Pinsof Nolan, Green City Market's Project Manager of The Edible Gardens, and founder of The Organic Gardener, Ltd.</span></b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><b><br />
</b></span>Are you interested in the satisfaction of growing your own food? Come learn the basic principals of organic gardening with Jeanne Pinsof Nolan. If you are a novice, this discussion will provide a start at giving yourself and your kids the very real and rewarding experience of growing your own food. For the more experienced gardener, get advice on organic gardening techniques and soil improvement. She'll talk about what to grow, when to plant, proper garden maintenance and more.</span></span></span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-80890462600168332552010-09-07T13:42:00.000-05:002010-09-07T13:42:18.721-05:00The StreetWise Guide to Passionate Chicago BarbecueBarbecued ribs are one of those subjective things. If you’re asked who makes your favorite ribs, you’ll probably have a quick answer and, no matter what your choice, there is no wrong answer, only what you like.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">So, rather than give you our opinion about who makes the best ribs, we’d like to share with you some of barbecue makers that take their barbecue personally. They are passionate about what they’re doing and so they make the extra effort to create something authentic and special to enjoy.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbSpdSiIn9AD6Bhkt9vhvx5o5ZZa_wWvKFdBiWGUmrswHMB-w40ytyNqupLwI26uI6v6VmBakx2v4W2Aq1uX43orMmCFsznDzX6AsgTxh4RpvrSFqgsJoPCHc-kXo6tNb-2g9dP3qAog/s1600/Sweet+Baby+Rays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPbSpdSiIn9AD6Bhkt9vhvx5o5ZZa_wWvKFdBiWGUmrswHMB-w40ytyNqupLwI26uI6v6VmBakx2v4W2Aq1uX43orMmCFsznDzX6AsgTxh4RpvrSFqgsJoPCHc-kXo6tNb-2g9dP3qAog/s320/Sweet+Baby+Rays.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Sweet Baby Ray’s</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">800 E. Higgins Road</st1:address></st1:street>, Elk Grove; (847) 437-9555; <a href="http://www.sbrbbq.com/">www.sbrbbq.com</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hours:</i> 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Mon.-Tues.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Wed.-Fri.; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat.; 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">249 E. Irving Park Road</st1:address></st1:street>, Wood Dale; (630) 238-8261</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hours:</i> 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.- 9 p.m., Fri.-Sat.; <a href="http://www.sbrbbq.com/">www.sbrbbq.com</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Everyone has heard of the barbecue sauce (it was born in <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city>), but many people still don’t know that there are two Sweet Baby Ray’s restaurants in the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city></st1:place> area. The team at SBR’s includes the original Sweet Baby Ray (Dave Raymond), executive chef Paul Papadopoulos (Elk Grove Village) who earned his culinary stripes at Heaven on Seven, and Dave’s nephew Duce (Wood Dale location), who is also a trained chef and equally enthusiastic about the barbecue. Dave himself is a diehard fanatic with what would be the equivalent of a PhD in BBQ. He’s done his research.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">These guys are experts at a variety of regional barbecue styles and often present specials to showcase authentic offerings that emanate from <st1:city w:st="on">Kansas City</st1:city>, the Carolinas, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">St. Louis</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state></st1:place> and other regions. Dave is passionate about educating Chicagoans about the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city></st1:place> style of barbecue, which centers on baby back ribs.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6CuEti1sOME1l1JINmJQA4XDILrfHJxhswHFYt1BzZDX6PnCqxbtt2QHc9zdSV3Pfs9YtnmKhO_XHYw4Adkuo5Fu9xWF8hBteuc6bc99hwp0N13vIL0qe8hSzRgRd4U8yh2GBCgDxNDQ/s1600/Smokin+Woody.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6CuEti1sOME1l1JINmJQA4XDILrfHJxhswHFYt1BzZDX6PnCqxbtt2QHc9zdSV3Pfs9YtnmKhO_XHYw4Adkuo5Fu9xWF8hBteuc6bc99hwp0N13vIL0qe8hSzRgRd4U8yh2GBCgDxNDQ/s200/Smokin+Woody.jpg" width="135" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Smokin’ Woody’s</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on">4160 N. Lincoln Ave.</st1:street>, <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city></st1:address>; (773) 880-1100; <a href="http://www.originalsmokinwoodys.com/">www.originalsmokinwoodys.com</a> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hours</i>: 11 a.m.- 9 p.m., Mon., Wed.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat., noon-9 p.m., Sun.; closed on Tuesdays</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This neighborhood joint, located where the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">North</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> and <st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Lincoln Square</st1:address></st1:street> areas meet, has been serving up superb dry rub smokehouse baby back ribs to a cadre of fans for several years. The aroma is smoky and pungent and the staff is helpful. We like Woody’s dry rub version so well that we ask for the barbecue sauce on the side and then use just a touch, preferring them unaltered. The place isn’t big, although the outdoor back patio is fun, and so we often get our ribs to go and take them home for a casual feast. Smokin Woody’s takes cash only, no credit cards.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br clear="all" style="page-break-before: always;" /> </span></b> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSJn7gCCn7JZXB_OwpFLM-BwOhZWA2jtLW1jPsRbkNzKvIqlK72lTcLpuo5haN3gjOMjlLZjurZp4EiOjdKiDymhyEcUA8V06mZLeCBS9cDHLvW950bVeRQf-bwHI5nxdpyOtl8EIyHU/s1600/smoque.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSJn7gCCn7JZXB_OwpFLM-BwOhZWA2jtLW1jPsRbkNzKvIqlK72lTcLpuo5haN3gjOMjlLZjurZp4EiOjdKiDymhyEcUA8V06mZLeCBS9cDHLvW950bVeRQf-bwHI5nxdpyOtl8EIyHU/s320/smoque.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Smoque</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">3800 N. Pulaski, Chicago; (773) 545-7427; <a href="http://www.smoquebbq.com/">www.smoquebbq.com</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hours:</i> 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Tues.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat.; 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun.; closed on Mondays</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This Northwest Side eatery has been slammed daily ever since it opened in 2007. The team is quite passionate about the product and they prepare the smoked ribs, brisket and chicken with tender loving care. We particularly like the brisket and chicken, which, thankfully, aren’t drenched in an oversupply of sauce. The sauces, which come on the side, are very good but you’re better off using the amount you prefer. Smoque also makes great hand cut French fries and the corn bread is better than most. If you’re a White Sox fan, we understand there is now a Smoque kiosk at US Cellular Field.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRXU4V-LJHK1jcljaNmUzc4hq2xZ8i7XluPZtqUzkxs2EhbYIieQsvJ6SUjyEIk2XqhGHq7f46orNre8NOqeREJo4f8QWKbWoBp7Ffh_lG0CdOfxsv55_mkuiCiZH6kBrQhe6-aeG0-4/s1600/smoke+daddy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRXU4V-LJHK1jcljaNmUzc4hq2xZ8i7XluPZtqUzkxs2EhbYIieQsvJ6SUjyEIk2XqhGHq7f46orNre8NOqeREJo4f8QWKbWoBp7Ffh_lG0CdOfxsv55_mkuiCiZH6kBrQhe6-aeG0-4/s320/smoke+daddy.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Smoke Daddy</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">1804 W. Division, Chicago; (773) 772-6656; <a href="http://www.thesmokedaddy.com/">www.thesmokedaddy.com</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hours:</i> 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun.-Thurs; 11:30 a.m.-midnight, Fri.-Sat.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This hot food and music joint has been a <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Wicker</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> staple for years, but it was when the Dunlay Group took over the place a few years ago that it really began to shine. The food is hearty and the atmosphere is as homespun as one can hope for, with an intriguing cast of regulars. We like the barbecued baby back ribs the best, although the spare ribs, rib tips and barbecue beef sandwiches have no trouble holding their own. The fries are decadent, too. There are many raves for the burgers, if you’re in the mood. There is live music every night.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgB37v01bpdF_2RZhyphenhyphenLdaL5kjCZGeGD1fGfzuNASpR9bSp1ff6fb78EZu_bh4low45SNSaOHTfharZ-uhTNqzB6epbb_ijOeDptxzMknHj8HddFKNBzEEn64vhkGeoNj-UOAYUzsqsJs/s1600/costco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgB37v01bpdF_2RZhyphenhyphenLdaL5kjCZGeGD1fGfzuNASpR9bSp1ff6fb78EZu_bh4low45SNSaOHTfharZ-uhTNqzB6epbb_ijOeDptxzMknHj8HddFKNBzEEn64vhkGeoNj-UOAYUzsqsJs/s320/costco.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Costco</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Yes, we’re talking about the retail store. One day we purchased the Curly’s pre-cooked barbecue short ribs that come in a 48-oz. pound package. We heated them up according to the directions, and we were truly surprised at how good they were, competitive with the ribs at any of the good barbecue joints. Since then, when we go to Costco, we make a point to pick up 4 or 5 packages and drop them in the freezer. To defrost them quickly we put them in the microwave—20 minutes on the defrost cycle and they’re good to go. Then we scrape off some of the excess sauce, put them in the oven for 30-40 minutes (or on the grill for about 10 minutes to finish them off), and the meat just melts off the bone. Yum. Really. Something to be passionate about. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><st1:personname w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cindy Kurman</span></st1:personname><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Barrie and <st1:personname w:st="on">Lee Barrie</st1:personname> are the principals of <a href="http://www.kurman.com/">Kurman Communications, Inc</a>., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-18996285890719981242010-09-03T10:40:00.000-05:002010-09-03T10:40:29.497-05:00Reza’s healthful and tasty Mediterranean fare hits the mark for quality and variety<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xIWTGAHJOyuA2IhxX864N20mO0b2dQt44a__NOKllBh-6eeUZSlVxlMzEdZgux7syIkj28EjYrxQE5D6566Q6PruP0ED11fkDySZhY2QHD9Qk0COYVVwm78zaNxxJZ2Gcat9vfjpj00/s1600/Rezas+photo+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xIWTGAHJOyuA2IhxX864N20mO0b2dQt44a__NOKllBh-6eeUZSlVxlMzEdZgux7syIkj28EjYrxQE5D6566Q6PruP0ED11fkDySZhY2QHD9Qk0COYVVwm78zaNxxJZ2Gcat9vfjpj00/s200/Rezas+photo+collage.jpg" width="181" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Reza’s Restaurant</b></span><br />
432 W. Ontario, Chicago,<br />
(312) 664-4500<br />
5255 N. Clark, Chicago,<br />
(773) 561-1898<br />
40 N. Tower Rd., Oak Brook, <br />
(630) 424-9900<br />
www.rezasrestaurant.com<br />
<br />
<i><b>Hours:</b></i> 11 a.m.-midnight, seven days a week<br />
<i><b>Prices: </b></i>dinnertime entrées: $14.95-$21.95; family style, $24.95-$29.95 per person <br />
<br />
We were enjoying our delicious Mediterranean dinner at Reza’s so much the other day that we almost forgot to acknowledge we were also eating quite healthfully. Smart eating is easy when you go for Mediterranean fare. The cuisine is, by design, relatively low-fat but high in good nutrition. Reza’s offers the kind of dining experience that lends itself to regular enjoyment. It’s not expensive, there are leftovers to bring home and, if you’ve been at all conscious of your portion size, you won’t feel bloated or tired afterward. You can also enjoy a generous lunch buffet on weekdays. <br />
<br />
These facts are, of course, nothing new to Reza’s large cadre of regular customers. With three locations, Reza’s is an accessible and attractive neighborhood spot in which to enjoy a wide-ranging menu that features many vegetarian dishes in addition to the lamb, beef, poultry and seafood. <br />
<br />
Reza’s mission is not grandiose, and they don’t offer cutting edge interpretations of Mediterranean fare. Rather, the restaurants focus on quality and freshness, offering well-prepared renditions of traditional items that are pleasing to a diverse range of diners. Those who enjoy ethnic food adventure as well as those who prefer to stay with the basics will find much to enjoy here. The emphasis on healthy eating is stated on the menu: no artificial ingredients, additives or MSG are used. <br />
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The lunch and dinner menus are similar although there are more dinnertime choices, including family style dining. The salads are straightforward; nothing fancy. The signature salad is the Fattoush, with Romaine lettuce, scallion, cucumber, parsley, green pepper, radish, mint, toasted pita mixed with olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. <br />
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The meal gets more interesting with the appetizers. Signature starters include Herbed Roasted Feta Cheese, topped with roasted red pepper, black olives and tomatoes, finished with olive oil; Dolmeh Felfel, a sweet green pepper, stuffed with choice of spinach or mushrooms, with cheese, in a delicately spiced Persian tomato sauce, then baked; Vegetarian Shami, patties of minced green vegetables, coated with chickpeas and delicately sautéed, served in a sweet and sour pomegranate sauce with finely crushed walnuts, and Kashkeh Bodemjan, a medley of eggplant, curds and whey, flavored with garlic and mint, served with pita bread. The Grilled Mushrooms and Grilled Potatoes are appetizers that also work well as side dishes. <br />
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Reza’s offers a selection of five lunchtime vegetarian combos; At dinnertime, the vegetarian combos are similar, but there are some additional choices. All are served with fresh Persian bread, soup and a choice of dill or white rice (choose the dill), couscous, grilled potatoes or Persian salad. Veggie combo I features Hummus, Tabbouli, and Baba Ghannouj. Combo II offers Vegetarian Dolmeh, Vegetarian Shami and Kashkeh Bodemjan; Combo III includes Cous-Cous, Reza’s vegetarian appetizer and steamed string beans; Combo IV features eggplant steak, hummus and couscous. Combo V presents Stuffed Green Pepper with spinach or mushroom stuffing, Reza’s vegetarian appetizer and falafel. <br />
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If you’re in the mood for a wrap, choose for the kabob-based Koubideh (seasoned minced beef), Chicken Koubideh, Chicken Breast, Seasoned Ground Chicken, Lamb or Filet Mignon. If you’d prefer a vegetarian wrap, you can order Falafel, Portabella or Eggplant. <br />
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Moving on to entrées, fish and seafood lovers have many choices; all dishes are served with the same accoutrements as the veggie combos. Choices include Broiled Filet of Salmon, Broiled Lake Superior White Fish, White Fish Persian style (breaded and sautéed in olive oil), and Shrimp or Scallops (either choice is garlic marinated). A special dinnertime-only entrée is the Chilean Sea Bass Kabob (charbroiled seasoned chunks of Sea Bass). <br />
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If you’re in a mood for meats or poultry, you will easily find something to fit the mood. Choices include Filet Mignon (charbroiled with grilled mushrooms in a mushroom sauce), Lamb Chops (two double-cut broiled baby spring lamb chops) or Lamb Loin Chops (three broiled loin chops), and Koubideh (seasoned minced beef kabob). The Lamb Shank is simmered in home made tomato-based sauce. Two interesting dinnertime-only entrees are the Fessenjan, boneless chicken breast simmered in a sweet and sour pomegranate sauce, and the Ghamieh Bodemjan, beef and yellow split peas simmered in a tomato sauce. <br />
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Kabobs arrive right from the broiler. Choose the Lamb Kabob (charbroiled lamb loin on a skewer, served with grilled vegetables), the Chengeh (Filet Mignon shish kabob) served with a grilled tomato, Boneless Chicken (marinated boneless chicken breast, charbroiled with grilled vegetables, the Chicken Koubideh (charbroiled seasoned ground chicken kabob with Persian seasonings) or the Quail Kabob (marinated and charbroiled, served with grilled getables).<br />
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The family-style dinners are offered as five-course feasts, offered on a per-person pricing. Choose from three appetizers and three entrees. These are also excellent for carry-out. <br />
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In addition to the tasty Baklava and Bamieh, there are American-style desserts such as rich Double Chocolate Cake, White Chocolate Mousse Cake, Carrot Cake and Raspberry Cheese Cake. Don’t forget to enjoy the aromatic Persian coffee or tea. <br />
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Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. For more information, please call (312) 651-9000 or stay in the know by visiting their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com. For more DineWise features, subscribe to http://dinewisechicago.blogspot.com and follow us on Twitter @dinewise.</span>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-4075674170829718982010-09-03T10:31:00.000-05:002010-09-03T10:31:34.297-05:00Bon Appetit and Chicago Gourmet Dine Around<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="dine_around" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="left" valign="top" width="60%"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDISL_LAxopNzvdlCFNbS7uVNKQ_ISEz9b8tF3NrkHe3DM2qS3yBJOoJccxOUSsH_8p8nhgx97YYbHITJkkn6KhM5iv7elJYagRK9YIdUMv4ustM05nSyOiQ8xNqvBWJxISnZikS1mPCk/s1600/Chicago+Groumet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDISL_LAxopNzvdlCFNbS7uVNKQ_ISEz9b8tF3NrkHe3DM2qS3yBJOoJccxOUSsH_8p8nhgx97YYbHITJkkn6KhM5iv7elJYagRK9YIdUMv4ustM05nSyOiQ8xNqvBWJxISnZikS1mPCk/s320/Chicago+Groumet.jpg" /></a></div><span>The <em><span>Bon Appétit </span></em><span>and Chicago Gourmet</span> Dine Around extends the event beyond Millennium Park into some of the city’s best restaurants. Special prix-fixe menus will be available at participating restaurants offering guests not only a unique dining experience but a chance to earn a free ticket to Chicago Gourmet. Guests who purchase five meals during the Dine Around period, Monday, August 30 through Sunday, September 26, at any participating restaurant must attach a copy of their receipt to their receipt holder in order to redeem a complimentary ticket to Chicago Gourmet. Receipts must be presented at registration the day of the event in order to redeem your one-day pass. </span><br />
<h3><span>2010 Dine Around restaurants:</span></h3><span>Aja<br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=450" target="_blank">aria</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=417" target="_blank">Balsan at the Elysian Hotel</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=436" target="_blank">Bittersweet Pastry Shop & Cafe</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=423" target="_blank">Boka Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=437" target="_blank">Branch 27</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=286" target="_blank">C-House</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=267" target="_blank">Café des Architectes at Sofitel Chicago Water Tower</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=434" target="_blank">cibo matto</a></span><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=424" target="_blank">Courtright’s </a></span><span><a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=424" target="_blank">Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=438" target="_blank">Firefly Grill</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=269" target="_blank">Green Zebra</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=323" target="_blank">Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse</a></span>Henri<br />
<span><a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=290" target="_blank">Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, Chicago</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=325" target="_blank">Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, Naperville</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=270" target="_blank">Keefer's Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=447" target="_blank">L2O</a><br />
Lao Beijing<br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=440" target="_blank">LM Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=291" target="_blank">LUXBAR</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=416" target="_blank">May St. Café & Catering</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=319" target="_blank">Mercat a la Planxa</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=308" target="_blank">Mexique</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=271" target="_blank">Morton’s The Steakhouse</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=415" target="_blank">N9NE Steakhouse</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=272" target="_blank">NoMI</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=273" target="_blank">Oceanique Restaurant</a><br />
Old Town Social<br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=439" target="_blank">one sixtyblue</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=264" target="_blank">Park Grill </a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=422" target="_blank">Perennial Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=274" target="_blank">Phil Stefani’s 437 Rush</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=275" target="_blank">Piccolo Sogno</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=425" target="_blank">Prairie Fire</a><br />
Prosecco<br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=276" target="_blank">Province</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=277" target="_blank">Quartino</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=279" target="_blank">RIVA at Navy Pier</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=420" target="_blank">RL</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=444" target="_blank">Rockit Bar & Grill</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=288" target="_blank">Seasons, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=443" target="_blank">Sixteen</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=432" target="_blank">Sola</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=278" target="_blank">Spring Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=446" target="_blank">Sunda New Asian</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=471" target="_blank">SUSHI SAMBA rio</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=294" target="_blank">Takashi</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=287" target="_blank">Tavern at the Park</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=321" target="_blank">Tavern on Rush</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=433" target="_blank">The Bristol</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=419" target="_blank">The Dining Room at Kendall College</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=268" target="_blank">The Gage</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=289" target="_blank">The Metropolitan Club</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=418" target="_blank">The Parrot Cage Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=322" target="_blank">The Signature Room at the 95th</a><br />
<a href="http://209.252.73.2/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/?page=280" target="_blank">Vie</a></span><br />
<br />
<em>The list of Dine Around restaurants continues to grow. <a href="http://www.illinoisrestaurants.org/associations/2039/chicagogourmet/">Check here for more information</a>. </em></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-42155770224861097592010-08-09T17:45:00.000-05:002010-08-09T17:45:22.444-05:00Amelia’s Mestizo Grill is an oasis of culinary treasure in the historic Stockyards neighborhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7zIcc24NEe0jqO2YCRQNiP52z5b8zTn9NsBGqsrj4j0xGVp78kitGXbBSRwwfJZ8vvX5IdGmocH42PT8ITodHVJYxnX-eflN20paqw_0H9SqsGFq8yqHnefiDgcPBYzMCd4liUnwAWQ/s1600/Amelias+photo+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7zIcc24NEe0jqO2YCRQNiP52z5b8zTn9NsBGqsrj4j0xGVp78kitGXbBSRwwfJZ8vvX5IdGmocH42PT8ITodHVJYxnX-eflN20paqw_0H9SqsGFq8yqHnefiDgcPBYzMCd4liUnwAWQ/s200/Amelias+photo+collage.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Amelia’s Mestizo Grill</b></span><br />
4559 S. Halsted, Chicago<br />
(773) 538-8200; <a href="http://www.ameliaschicago.com/">www.ameliaschicago.com</a><br />
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<i><b>Hours:</b></i> 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat.; 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun.<br />
<i><b>Prices:</b></i> entrées, $17-$24<br />
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Driving south on Halsted to the historic Stockyards area, we were not expecting the warm, sophisticated and gracious atmosphere that greeted us; it’s a tribute to owners Leo and Eusevio Garcia that they have created such a comforting respite in a relatively industrial, stark neighborhood. Through word of mouth, Amelia’s Mestizo Grill has become a beloved destination restaurant for many Chicagoans, and the Garcias have clearly put much heart and soul into it. They are passionate about their food and their desire to please their guests. The beautiful exposed brick walls are generously decorated with Mexican art, the seating is very comfortable and the service is thoughtful and considerate.<br />
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Amelia’s Mestizo Grill presents a sophisticated blend of southern central Mexican and European cuisine, much like the food one would enjoy in cosmopolitan Mexico City. They are using authentic, fresh ingredients and have refined the food with subtle seasonings and flavor combination's that make the dining experience memorable. In keeping with the beautiful décor, the food is handsomely presented as well.<br />
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We chose some popular dishes as well as some we couldn’t resist because they sounded so good. The menu is extensive. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of everything.<br />
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To start your meal, there is a more than ample choice of appetizers, salads and soups, with more than enough variety to please everyone and great for sharing. We loved the Taquitos de Cangrejo, which were more like spring rolls: crabmeat rolled in rice paper, with papaya, cilantro, basil, fresh mint, peanuts and spicy mango. Three other great starters were the Tamal Nejo (ash layered tamal with spicy black bean puree and red mole sauce and sheared chicken), the Croquetas Fritas (artichoke corn fritters, squash blossoms, epazote and salsa cruda), and the Quesadilla de Huitlacoche (corn truffle, Chihuahua cheese, epazote, roasted corn and black bean salad with tomato salad). The guacamole had a nice touch of heat to liven things up. Some other choices to whet your appetite include the Eggplant Empanada (roasted eggplant, caviar, sun dried tomato, baby arugula salad, goat cheese and basil pesto), and the popular Queso Fundido and Ceviche.<br />
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Entrées were equally delicious. We were thrilled with an entrée special, crispy Peking Duck topped with a subtle, spicy Mexican sauce. Another clear winner was the Lomo de Puerco (grilled pork tenderloin with fava beans, andouille sausage, baby spinach in a spicy ciruela sauce) which was well balanced and perfectly prepared, although we recommend getting it medium rare rather than medium. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">On the seafood side, we also loved the Camarones Ala Pipiana (sautéed shrimp served in green mole with plaintains). Other great sounding entrée selections include Cordero Al Carbon (grilled baby lamb chops, polenta cake, roasted tomatoes, asparagus salad in a chipotle pasilla reduction), Raviolis de Queso de Cabra (goat cheese stuffed ravioli, stir fry, eggplant, green peas, cherry tomatoes and basil pesto), and Pescado Empapelado (tilapia wrapped in foil, steamed with nopales, chorizo and epazote, served with rice and grilled banana).<br />
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The dessert menu is also quite intriguing. We loved the chocolate infused tres leches cake with coconut ice cream, which was beautifully presented.<br />
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Keep in mind that weekend brunch is also very extensive, offering some of the same starters and entrees as on the dinner menu, as well as some delicious brunch specials. Special brunch egg dishes include Heuvos Al jardin (two poached eggs, grilled Portobello mushrooms, Mexican zucchini and red pepper hollandaise sauce), San Pedro Omelet (crab meat, roasted corn, quelites and muenster cheese), Halsted Omelet (avocado, pico de gallo, spinach and feta cheese) and the Frittata, an egg white soufflé with artichoke hearts, spinach, cherry tomatoes and pesto.<br />
<br />
Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>. Follow us on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/dinewise">@Dinewise</a>.</span>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-53468073088401140552010-07-30T18:15:00.001-05:002010-07-30T18:18:47.077-05:00Gourmet Brain Freeze: Chicago's Best Ice Cream Shops<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DRu0T4yjW_66z2wIiJZU3ITP-88-Vl9VPOuiEVmXAA5IOf40vq7EO-J-6B1X1LzNkJaTJZuvcNVcaU2EMA7ELoI5FhMR0msEXfDxE0BGMsUacl3xl6TKs6uJfmRb7O-J1a2kJbP_HNU/s1600/Ice+Cream+Cones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DRu0T4yjW_66z2wIiJZU3ITP-88-Vl9VPOuiEVmXAA5IOf40vq7EO-J-6B1X1LzNkJaTJZuvcNVcaU2EMA7ELoI5FhMR0msEXfDxE0BGMsUacl3xl6TKs6uJfmRb7O-J1a2kJbP_HNU/s320/Ice+Cream+Cones.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman<br />
First published in StreetWise Magazine</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />
As we write this, we’re gearing up to attend the second annual <b>Chicago Luxury Ice Cream Festival </b>at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Center in Lincoln Park, July 30-31. By the time you read this, the festival, the brainchild of our friend Jeff Reid, will have become history, but an even bigger annual foodie event. This leads us to consider our topic of the week: artisan ice cream.</span><br />
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<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Almost everyone who likes dairy loves ice cream or a suitable variation like frozen yogurt, frozen custard, and gelato. Whether you’re a purest and prefer your ice cream plain or an adventurer who will try any and all types of flavors, mix-ins and toppings, Chicago offers up many great places to try an ice cream creation that refreshingly rises above the typical supermarket ice cream experience. <br />
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Here are some fun places to try when it’s hot out and you’re looking for a relatively inexpensive fix of frozen delight. <b><br />
<br />
The Chocolate Shoppe</b><br />
5337 W. Devon Ave., Chicago 1823 Waukegan Rd, Glenview, IL<br />
773-763-9778 (847) 998-0809<br />
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We stumbled upon the Glenview location when it first opened last year, taking over a former Baskin Robbins space. What a difference! They feature more than 40 flavors, with a very helpful, enthusiastic staff. Their Zanzibar Chocolate, a dark chocolate scoop of guilty pleasure, is the best chocolate ice cream we’ve ever had. Our advice: go there and get two flavors, one being the Zanzibar and the other a suitable, but lighter accompaniment. There is nothing better. <br />
<br />
<b>Black Dog Gelato</b><br />
859 N. Damen Ave., Chicago<br />
773-235-3116; <a href="http://www.blackdoggelato.com/">www.blackdoggelato.com</a><br />
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Using fresh, locally produced ingredients, this gelato and sorbet shop offers traditional flavors such as vanilla bean, milk chocolate and pistachio, or more adventurous choices such as salted peanut, goat-cheese cashew caramel and roasted red pepper.<br />
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<b>Gertie's Ice Cream</b><br />
7600 S. Pulaski Rd., Chicago<br />
(773) 582-2510<br />
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If you’re nostalgic for an old-time ‘50’s era ice cream parlor, Gertie’s is the real deal. They make their own ice cream and their signature dish is an old fashioned banana split, with three scoops of ice cream, strawberries, pineapple, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, chopped nuts and a cherry. Sometimes classics withstand the test of time for good reason. <br />
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<b>Homer’s Homemade Gourmet Ice Cream</b><br />
1237 Green Bay Rd., Wilmette, IL<br />
847-251-0477<br />
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We know you’ve heard of it, but now is as good as any time to actually give it a try. Homer’s is family owned, award-winning, offering 35 flavors of premium frozen joy. Rave reviews for the Fresh Peach ice cream, and many say that the simpler flavors are so good that they are worth ordering over the more complex flavors. Either way, you’ll get your fix of pure pleasure. Don’t forget the shakes and malts, either. <br />
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<b>Bobtails</b><br />
2951 N. Broadway<br />
Chicago, IL 60657<br />
(773) 880-7372; <a href="http://www.bobtailicecream.com/">www.bobtailicecream.com</a><br />
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Bobtails is another delightful retro journey back to the days of yesteryear’s soda jerks. The ice cream is made on-site; you can even view the factory while you’re there. Choose from about 20 original flavors, including the “signature sunset”, which is a merlot ice cream with dark chocolate chips. It’s also a great place to try a special ice cream creation such as a sundae. <br />
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<b>Artisan Micro-Creameries for your Ice Cream Radar Antennae</b><br />
We’re the first to admit that it would take page after page to describe all of the wonderful ice creams available in Chicagoland. So here’s a shortcut: peruse the following list of micro-creameries and then keep your eyes open for a restaurant or ice cream shop that carries these brands. You’ll enjoy some of the finest ice cream made in the Chicago area, some with offbeat flavors and unusual ingredients. Then enjoy the brain freeze:<br />
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Blue Marble Dairy of Chicago<br />
Sibby’s Ice Cream<br />
Trader’s Point Creamery<br />
Nice Cream<br />
Ruth & Phil’s Gourmet Ice Cream<br />
Mayfell Farms (sheep’s milk ice cream)</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaeIGJ56hUzgB307T-V7SMdJ_uG5B2T2pUZX-N0Fokbck2bd30CTb0COuk8N9D11ZutA-U09pgBcHhbVdhmcKrql4nlE4rPQhIRi5hpcYIZ6Fn3bf9P5YVoeJDfWQkcIBUC-2qfBhFvX0/s1600/The+Chocolate+Shoppe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaeIGJ56hUzgB307T-V7SMdJ_uG5B2T2pUZX-N0Fokbck2bd30CTb0COuk8N9D11ZutA-U09pgBcHhbVdhmcKrql4nlE4rPQhIRi5hpcYIZ6Fn3bf9P5YVoeJDfWQkcIBUC-2qfBhFvX0/s200/The+Chocolate+Shoppe.jpg" width="137" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyW58Y4rq2-wnm89Bo5fcEHTqFnH3Pnf2REFGYct6Ts21hiXMp83RQD2f9v_fG-2ddQz6kXFt0y4rozsz87l6NRJNsIJisHXrjgQmRVuqh1v4rEF9O3PUCW2lbKhQEfjY_GMg_OcKvDmw/s1600/black+dog+gelato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyW58Y4rq2-wnm89Bo5fcEHTqFnH3Pnf2REFGYct6Ts21hiXMp83RQD2f9v_fG-2ddQz6kXFt0y4rozsz87l6NRJNsIJisHXrjgQmRVuqh1v4rEF9O3PUCW2lbKhQEfjY_GMg_OcKvDmw/s320/black+dog+gelato.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KUHv4Da_vKfOaqT58SkrSGwTwFbIQdJVhNI9Khh5FsreMvYwwrTUqiPbZhA8zfGUonPj5yFyOJSOAOX9KpEdgAeRpC5My5f_L_qEpAzZMa0evrJ6c6cpNHsPeU6B23csED4g4NYz3Wo/s1600/Homer's+Ice+Cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KUHv4Da_vKfOaqT58SkrSGwTwFbIQdJVhNI9Khh5FsreMvYwwrTUqiPbZhA8zfGUonPj5yFyOJSOAOX9KpEdgAeRpC5My5f_L_qEpAzZMa0evrJ6c6cpNHsPeU6B23csED4g4NYz3Wo/s320/Homer's+Ice+Cream.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-Z_lk60oy4QrJ-_VySMhyzjGw5d4FWD1cwToDjIAtgzyXq7_myzznLmUw6TRC6YVavJVYp-Xgbu8nJtit5sAvKWl5YznQrlGA16L6b91OJ8xXZWx3biU_KLVaxGiFvxAzXW8qXidAgM/s1600/Bobtail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-Z_lk60oy4QrJ-_VySMhyzjGw5d4FWD1cwToDjIAtgzyXq7_myzznLmUw6TRC6YVavJVYp-Xgbu8nJtit5sAvKWl5YznQrlGA16L6b91OJ8xXZWx3biU_KLVaxGiFvxAzXW8qXidAgM/s320/Bobtail.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq90XbRuuaYaP7qcM2h9KG31uLPOUMoEXYcaP9gDGUJXiHu_glVRMIj0Lv3BnCcQ0PRRWEEe7wK2gbjI60bBhRv7iTZBF09nC7n3i0ognw43V1GZsHTNJ44Hd2901HUYSoFJJDqBvZDR0/s1600/Gertie's.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq90XbRuuaYaP7qcM2h9KG31uLPOUMoEXYcaP9gDGUJXiHu_glVRMIj0Lv3BnCcQ0PRRWEEe7wK2gbjI60bBhRv7iTZBF09nC7n3i0ognw43V1GZsHTNJ44Hd2901HUYSoFJJDqBvZDR0/s320/Gertie's.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of <a href="http://www.kurman.com/">Kurman Communications, Inc</a>., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com </a>and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>. Follow us on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/dinewise">@Dinewise</a>.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-44199677150237545052010-07-30T16:24:00.000-05:002010-07-30T16:24:58.247-05:00Crepes worth seeking out in Chicago<div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYmfTUjRIaYPpFSXvnUH8HyTXFK-tzmYLicLRyOUtLSAs254X8nsVv_U-bIcIP7eDak8-5mieryR1vm9soTpQ8uB_zSp4Jf7lnq2QEHZcWY_Oni9UEMMApIWCsf6TtCAx0_rm_kqNJMY/s1600/Lutz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline ! important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYmfTUjRIaYPpFSXvnUH8HyTXFK-tzmYLicLRyOUtLSAs254X8nsVv_U-bIcIP7eDak8-5mieryR1vm9soTpQ8uB_zSp4Jf7lnq2QEHZcWY_Oni9UEMMApIWCsf6TtCAx0_rm_kqNJMY/s200/Lutz.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on"><span class="detailaddress1"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lutz Cafe and Pastry Shop</span></b></span></st1:street></st1:address></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on"><span class="detailaddress1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2458 W. Montrose Ave.</span></span></st1:street><span class="detailaddress1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">, </span><st1:city w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chicago</span></st1:city></span></st1:address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span class="detailaddress1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Tel: (773) 478-7785 </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span class="detailaddress1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">http://www.lutzcafe.com/<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="detailaddress1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday - Saturday</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="detailaddress1"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You have to love and respect a neighborhood restaurant that's been around for 62 years. Such is the case with popular Lutz Cafe and Pastry Shop. This internationally inspired cafe opened in 1948 as a pastry shop influenced by the Black Forest region of </span><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Germany</span></st1:place></st1:country-region><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lutz is a </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chicago</span></st1:place></st1:city></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> tradition. Just mentioning the name elicits stories and memories from childhoods passed. While the pastry shop is a destination for fabulous pastries, cakes and tortes. A menu staple includes Chicken & Mushroom Crepes ($8.95) and Spinach Crepes ($8.95) both finished with hollandaise sauce. Always delicious and worth coming back for return visits. The lovely outside garden in back is one of </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chicago</span></st1:place></st1:city></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">'s most charming.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Crepes A Latte</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthnBmT8IrFbfaLkosCgHe1LUNOZfy386Pj-Qc975iKkJI9OL-Jmbz3UbIueS6qX_drbHZQy7R-tREX4S4KIU46YV9YbiKNOS4XqDbmTvVU8hkRvQ3G_RpJ-JbkcYfzYVcMTAv_OcPno4/s1600/Crepes+a+Latte+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthnBmT8IrFbfaLkosCgHe1LUNOZfy386Pj-Qc975iKkJI9OL-Jmbz3UbIueS6qX_drbHZQy7R-tREX4S4KIU46YV9YbiKNOS4XqDbmTvVU8hkRvQ3G_RpJ-JbkcYfzYVcMTAv_OcPno4/s200/Crepes+a+Latte+logo.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1840 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Tel: (773) 549-4444</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">www.crepesalatte-thecafe.com</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We were pleasantly surprised at Crepes A Latte with blue "clouds" suspended from the ceiling, a clock tower and a caricature of a Parisian street scene on the back wall, Crepes A Latte is whimsical and fun. We don't think that you'd find Crepes A Latte in France but the broad crepe selection is impressive if not confusing. With breakfast crepe options ranging from egg and cheese to the enticing crumbled blueberry muffin with vanilla bean sauce for under $5, there's something for everyone. We have to note that we were confused by the printed menu. While it appears that there are choices other than crepes, the perhaps too cleverly worded menu packages everything in a tasty light wrap. For lunch, dinner or an afternoon snack, there are a variety of savory options ($6.75), Avocado, Tomato & Cheese, Baked Apples with Brie, or Chicken Peanut Satay. There's also a Smoked Turkey and a number of veggie selection. Visiting Crepes A Latte for dessert? You won't be disappointed. Try a twist on an old favorite, Bananas Foster or Caramel Apple Pie or be more European and enjoy our favorite, Nutella Banana (all $5.75). They have a nice selection of "hot stuff", i.e. coffee, tea and hot chocolate drinks, as well as drinks to "chill out" with including frappes, iced, smoothies and milkshakes. Crepes A Latte is a perfect for a multi-unit operation. Look for more coming to Chicago. This is one concept with legs worth the run.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSnEI27FzXgY-NB-c0-JPpFht0Y8t5Km4FNP57-catLfv9SKCtzM8usl4BuSS67jYAENuPCVabAMd0alLsMiuzgB5vrClybhEPMl5WxaCginBXkBW4jCqwlDo-gZLMFEF8G2ewPvok18/s1600/Crepes+Cafe+Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSnEI27FzXgY-NB-c0-JPpFht0Y8t5Km4FNP57-catLfv9SKCtzM8usl4BuSS67jYAENuPCVabAMd0alLsMiuzgB5vrClybhEPMl5WxaCginBXkBW4jCqwlDo-gZLMFEF8G2ewPvok18/s320/Crepes+Cafe+Logo.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Crepes Cafe</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">410 S. Clark St.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Tel: 312-341-1313</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.crepescafe.net/">http://www.crepescafe.net/</a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6px_z5eiZpvXzEUFWuASwkXPclIAvF_VuTHXekmABt_b0f0cVooTZsyvLJSnMcaUhdrY4SbliYF-V1JId7P6IL5E5fenxZ_L_mf4XafnK9myqniEJnR8t-zjsaYlkv2RVuyPlPgP23MY/s1600/Crepes+Cafe+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6px_z5eiZpvXzEUFWuASwkXPclIAvF_VuTHXekmABt_b0f0cVooTZsyvLJSnMcaUhdrY4SbliYF-V1JId7P6IL5E5fenxZ_L_mf4XafnK9myqniEJnR8t-zjsaYlkv2RVuyPlPgP23MY/s200/Crepes+Cafe+1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you can dream it, you can have it at Crepes Cafe. They offer a large variety of traditional and not-so-traditional crepes, sweet and savory, including Beef Stroganoff ($12) or Frutti di Mare ($11), Spinach and Feta ($7), Sweet Lemon ($4), Maple Syrup ($4), Vanilla Cheese ($7), PB&J ($7), and Fruit Preserves ($7), among others. If you're a hot dog ($7) fan, you don't have to go elsewhere. They wrap theirs in a crepe. You can also have a Polish Sausage ($10), Chili ($7), Corned Beef ($12), or Lasagna ($10). And, if you haven't guessed, you're welcome to "create your one."</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Other's worth mentioning:</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"></span><b>Crepe Bistro & Martini Bar</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">186 N. Wells, Chicago</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.crepebistro.net/">www.crepebistro.net</a> - (312) 269-0300 </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>FliP Crepes at Chicago French Market</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">131 N. Clinton, Chicago</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.flipcrepes.com/">www.flipcrepes.com</a> - (312) 504-2541 </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Crepes and Coffee Palace</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">2433 N. Clark, Chicago</div><div class="MsoNormal"> (773) 404-1300 </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Crepe Crave & Gelato</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">1752 W. North, Chicago</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.crepecrave.com/">www.crepecrave.com</a> - (773) 698-8783 </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-46207851930551583762010-06-24T16:52:00.000-05:002010-06-24T16:52:21.072-05:00Let's Do Lunch at the fabulous Chicago French Market<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Chicago French Market</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">131 N. Clinton, Chicago (entrances on Canal St. and Clinton)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/</span></a><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>Hours: 7 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday. Closed on Sunday. Vendor opening times vary, but all are open by 10 a.m.</em></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eI_3tERUN3KuYTJLLzCEZqEIHnpgL1H6onemdXMRby9rOzhGutS1TFx_aHkj1YQ82vH5I5lPoAaEklaW1nuzNjW3Kfy2OYMC8YBe8VOs_wTafnfFVTvbXKHk1x0YB0yXC4JpzOnIA2Y/s1600/lunch+at+French+Market+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eI_3tERUN3KuYTJLLzCEZqEIHnpgL1H6onemdXMRby9rOzhGutS1TFx_aHkj1YQ82vH5I5lPoAaEklaW1nuzNjW3Kfy2OYMC8YBe8VOs_wTafnfFVTvbXKHk1x0YB0yXC4JpzOnIA2Y/s320/lunch+at+French+Market+collage.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The buzz continues to grow about the new Chicago French Market, located adjacent to the Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago between Canal and Clinton. This memorable and exciting European style market is home to a diverse collection of specialty food booths. Some vendors offer food to take home and prepare, while others offer freshly prepared gems to be enjoyed right at the market. The spacious dining area offers ample room for market goers to settle in and enjoy their treats. It’s a food lovers’ paradise so take a stroll and enjoy the adventure. If you become a regular, you’ll get to know the vendors and you’ll learn a lot about the foods. How nice to actually know your food seller!</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Our suggestion: come to the market, pick up lunch, relax while you eat in the dining area, then take time to browse the aisles and pick out some fresh meat, fish or cheese, organic produce, prepared meats, fresh pasta, some wonderful bakery or chocolates to take home. If this becomes a routine, you’ll have a daily adventure that’s memorable and you’ll have some very happy family members.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When you’re inclined to do lunch at the market, here are some of the stops you should be sure to check out.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Chundy’s Bistro</strong> features Indian-fusion cuisine. There are hot meals, delicious soups, salads and sandwiches. Chundy’s offers Indian-fusion dishes, plus a variety of quality grab-and-go meals, salads, snacks and drinks. Menu highlights include cold sandwiches, meat and vegetarian Panini, soups such as green curry coconut, traditional Indian mulligatawny and lentil, salads, side dishes, a selection of chutneys and slaws and a collection of fruit and vegetable sweet breads, flatbreads, plus fresh fruit smoothies, milkshakes and iced fruit teas.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Buen Apetito</strong> is a family owned taqueria that specializes in traditional Mexican favorites with a modern flair and a focus on healthy, fresh and flavorful ingredients. The menu features grilled steak, chicken, salmon and vegetarian tacos and tostadas, plus burritos. All dishes are prepared with fresh herbs and distinctive spices. Appetizers include a hot or cold selection such as ceviche, pico de gallo or guacamole as well as tortilla soup, cebollitas or quesadillas. For the sweeter side, Buen Apetito offers Dona Marias signature flan cheesecake, rice pudding or tropical fruit medley.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>FliP Crepes</strong> serves a delicious variety of savory and sweet crepes, prepared with a master’s touch using healthy ingredients such as wheat flour, buckwheat and wheat germ. FliP gets its name from its distinctive presentation: the crepes arrive on your plate in the shape of a burrito.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Saigon Sisters</strong> is an authentic Vietnamese eatery such as one would find in the bustling markets of Vietnam. This popular stop offers a more modern environment but is operated under the same principle: offer fresh delicious food and products sourced from local suppliers. Choose from the delicious Pho (noodle and broth dishes), spring rolls, herb noodle salads, and Banh mi (sandwiches). The ingredients focus on healthful, flavorful and aromatic herbs, spices, vegetables, seasoned meats and seafood from locally sourced farmers and purveyors. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>RAW </strong>is the very popular stop at the Chicago French Market for raw foods. The raw food diet continues to grow in popularity, in part due to the fact that it is delicious and very satisfying. The food items are made from 100% organic raw vegan ingredients and the delicious foods taste as fresh as can be. Choices include sandwiches, salads, pizza, pastas, muffins and granola. smoothies, desserts, drinks and snack items, all made on-site.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Bowl Square</strong> serves healthy, traditional Korean fare. Korean food is also growing in popularity and here you’ll find approachable Korean food in nicely-sized portions. The menu focuses largely on simplified versions of popular Korean food with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and fast service. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Pastoral</strong> is a European-inspired, authentic neighborhood cheese shop, offering fine artisan cheeses, small production wines and freshly baked breads along with a full complement of related items such as charcuterie, olives, tapenades, honeys, jams, olive oils and artisan sweets. For lunch check out the prepared gourmet sandwiches, salads and side dishes. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Fumare Meats:</strong> You won’t find any more passionate or knowledgeable people about cured and smoked meats than these folks. Working with the finest purveyors, Fumare offers traditionally cured and smoked meats from local producers, including prosciutto, hams, smoked sausages, and bacons. You’ll find a nice selection of prepared sandwiches and side dishes. Make sure to try the old-fashioned Montreal-style smoked meat, cured and naturally smoked, peppered and slow-cooked to a well-marbled tenderness. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Frietkoten:</strong> If you love fries, you’ll have to stop here to enjoy Amsterdam’s traditional ‘fry shack’ experience: hand cut Belgian fries served in a paper cone. They’re crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, the way fries should be. Keeping with the Amsterdam tradition, there are nearly 20 different dipping sauces to choose from every day. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Espression by Lavazza</strong> raises the bar for coffee stops with a wide range of creative espresso beverages made with world-famous Lavazza coffee. This Italian company has taken Chicago by storm and the Chicago French Market location is the perfect setting. You’ll also love the gelato. Better yet, get a scoop of gelato topped with a shot of espresso.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Juice Bar</strong> is the place to go to round out your meal with fresh, squeezed-to-order fruit and vegetable juices, plus homemade smoothies made with seasonal fruits. All juices are 100% juice, with zero added sugar or concentrates.</span> </span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-77158797907225160362010-06-10T09:15:00.000-05:002010-06-10T09:15:22.784-05:00Yelp Eats Offering $25 Dining Deals at 33 Chicago Area Restaurants June 21-27Yelp.com, the website that connects people with great local businesses, presents Yelp Eats, June 21-27, a week-long promotion dedicated to giving consumers the chance to try local restaurants at discounted prices.<br />
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Prix fixe dinner menus are being offered at 33 restaurants throughout Chicagoland for $25. <br />
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Restaurants participating in the promotion include:<br />
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Chicago<br />
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1492 Tapas Bar, River North <br />
Bin Wine Cafe, Wicker Park<br />
Bin 36, Near North Side<br />
Blue 13, River North<br />
Branch 27, Noble Square<br />
Broadway Cellars, Edgewater<br />
Corner 41, North Center<br />
Duchamp, Bucktown<br />
Eve, Gold Coast<br />
Fontana Grill, Uptown<br />
Green Zebra, Noble Square<br />
Kinzie Chop House, River North<br />
La Madia, Near North Side<br />
LM Le Restaurant, Lincoln Square<br />
LOKal, Wicker Park<br />
Nacional 27, River North<br />
Sapori, Lincoln Park<br />
Scoozi, River North<br />
Spring, Wicker Park<br />
State & Lake, The Loop<br />
Thalia Spice, River West<br />
The Drawing Room, Gold Coast<br />
Treat, Humboldt Park<br />
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Chicago Suburbs<br />
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Birch River Grill, Arlington Heights<br />
Bluegrass, Highland Park<br />
Glen Prairie, Glen Ellyn<br />
Kama Bistro, La Grange<br />
Karma Asian Food & Wine, Mundelein<br />
Marion Street Cheese Market, Oak Park<br />
Meson Sabika, Naperville<br />
Oceanique, Evanston<br />
The Stained Glass, Evanston<br />
Vie, Western Springs<br />
Zak's Place, Hinsdale<br />
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These special menus are open to the public. Reservations should be made in advance by calling the business and mentioning Yelp Eats. For more information about the special menus, visit www.yelp.com/events/chicago-yelp-eats-3.Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-2218492839336120002010-06-04T20:05:00.000-05:002010-06-04T20:05:03.975-05:00Deleece: this restaurant was always good, but now it’s approaching amazing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNKpglZj3p4vVEHOEP2-L9Tp5bKNeS_bXWhgWLMJ5VOASW2MTZ1SJPjTIJpoT2KTEv3rX_TXdfuJIq-iYtaE5SNHj32Z1ANrn5eA76I2fMG96jtImOzlWagZ1DyKCWRKp9kO2URDdPtg/s1600/Outdoor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNKpglZj3p4vVEHOEP2-L9Tp5bKNeS_bXWhgWLMJ5VOASW2MTZ1SJPjTIJpoT2KTEv3rX_TXdfuJIq-iYtaE5SNHj32Z1ANrn5eA76I2fMG96jtImOzlWagZ1DyKCWRKp9kO2URDdPtg/s200/Outdoor.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Deleece</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">4004 N. Southport, <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Chicago</st1:place></st1:city></div><div class="MsoNormal">(773) 325-1710; www.deleece.com</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>Hours</b></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">:</i> 5:30-10 p.m., Mon.; 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-10 p.m., Tues., Wed., Thurs.; 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-11 p.m., Fri.; 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-11 p.m., Sat.; 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9 p.m., Sun.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>Prices:</b></i> most entrees are under than $20 and every Monday and Tuesday, Deleece features a three course special for $20!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s always a pleasure to write about a neighborhood spot that’s so good it’s worth a drive or L-ride, no matter where you live. So we’re happy to report that Deleece, a favorite among Lakeview residents since 1995, is better than ever and definitely worth the journey. A casual and beautifully artistic restaurant, owned by husband and wife team Lynne Wallack and John Handler, Deleece specializes in good contemporary American cuisine. With a foundation in American comforts, the restaurant brings a creative, global sensibility to its menu. The quality of the food has always set it apart from the bulk of even good neighborhood restaurants and these days, it has raised the bar even further. And topping off the good news, the menu continues to be very reasonably priced.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJrgvWZGmXcppipawBLloVM8lVDD8FAYab2dgPMHn1WEa9tc7ZInCoinV0URBIctqL7s5D923MH3g4xf39hL51NqHXKA_KRtnEvGxb06-D3narKhi3XykXzB6mwIoG_WHq8X0lyswoIg/s1600/Chef+Brandon+Canfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJrgvWZGmXcppipawBLloVM8lVDD8FAYab2dgPMHn1WEa9tc7ZInCoinV0URBIctqL7s5D923MH3g4xf39hL51NqHXKA_KRtnEvGxb06-D3narKhi3XykXzB6mwIoG_WHq8X0lyswoIg/s200/Chef+Brandon+Canfield.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Four months ago, Deleece brought in a new chef, Brandon Canfield, who was recently at mk in <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city> but has also cooked in <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state> and <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:city></st1:place>. His food is exceptional and we hope he has found a long term home at Deleece. We dined there very recently and we were very, very pleased, indeed. Canfield’s seasonal menu emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and he continues the tradition of presenting a wide assortment of flavors to please everyone.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Reading the menu, the dishes sound interesting, but not necessarily out of this world. In truth, the food is marvelous and brings the menu to life in a way we couldn’t have anticipated. We started our meal with an appetizer and salad. The Herbed Ricotta Gnocchi, with fava beans, maitake mushrooms, in white wine butter, was delicious. The gnocchi were perfectly done (not an easy feat) and the flavors were complex and fresh. The Arugula Salad was a culinary composition that was even better than the sum of its delicious parts. The honey-champagne dressing had a tantalizing sweet tartness, the honey glazed figs were a treat and, topped with a rich Stilton blue cheese, the salad was one of the best we’ve had in a long time.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZZW5n6lkHRXhkJVGN8q8FyKr_joJ_0ioxKgwJa1zFo4HumhTplkNZowjerKPaF88Y6xmnfHSpXYXQms6vm4PEwtQzwkbdHfL-7_7fKWt9m9n2CeLxuhubqeeY2R_FcSlXPOPX6yJdN0/s1600/Salmon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZZW5n6lkHRXhkJVGN8q8FyKr_joJ_0ioxKgwJa1zFo4HumhTplkNZowjerKPaF88Y6xmnfHSpXYXQms6vm4PEwtQzwkbdHfL-7_7fKWt9m9n2CeLxuhubqeeY2R_FcSlXPOPX6yJdN0/s200/Salmon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">We both ordered the Caramelized Salmon, a nicely-sized fillet, pan roasted with a somewhat sweet, teriyaki-like glaze, served with herbed black Chinese rice and a tasty sauté of fresh spinach and leeks in a pear ginger sauce. We were very, very happy. We asked for medium rare salmon and that’s what we got. We savored every bite, for this was one of the best salmon preparations we have ever had.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So, without dwelling on the many superlatives at Deleece, let’s run down other menu items, but keep in mind that the menu will change frequently and there are daily specials. Other current appetizer choices include Crab Risotto Cakes with truffle aioli; Chicken and Vegetable Potstickers with ginger, coriander, mustard seeds and honey; Rosemary Scented Polenta layered with sun-dried tomato and garlic pesto, wilted spinach and Ancho chili oil; Veggie spring rolls in butter lettuce salsa verde and nuoc cham.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Salad selections also include California Butter Lettuce with spiced walnuts, goat cheese, roasted peppers in a sherry vinaigrette; a Caesar salad with polenta croutons, and an entrée-sized Szechwan Salad with <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state></st1:place> strip, napa cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red peppers, peanuts, fried rice noodles in a basil-cilantro-mint dressing.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Additional entrées include Boneless Half Amish Chicken with a salad of fingerling potato, caramelized onion, bacon and celery, in a fig mostarda sauce; Grilled Pork Tenderloin stuffed with spinach and bacon, garlic green beans, savory apple bread pudding and champagne-caramel demi glace; Grilled New York Strip with sautéed spinach, truffle mashed potatoes and port wine demi glace. Fish lovers should also try the Grilled Halibut Steak with peas, baby carrots, chickpea fries and arugula-mint pesto. Note also that many of the sides which come with the entrées are available ala carte as well. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Deleece also presents a special $20 three-course prix fixe dinner menu on Mondays and Tuesdays and bottles of wine are half-priced on Wednesdays. There is a kids menu and the restaurant is family-friendly, without a nice outdoor seating area.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Also keep in mind that there is a second Deleece restaurant: Deleece Grill Pub, at 3313 <st1:place w:st="on">N. Clark</st1:place> in Wrigleyville, which focuses more on high-quality burgers, mac-and-cheese other comfort fare.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><st1:personname w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cindy Kurman</span></st1:personname><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Barrie and <st1:personname w:st="on"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_242725780">Lee Barrie</a></st1:personname><a href="mailto:dinewise@kurman.com"> </a>are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>. You can follow us on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/dinewise">@DineWise</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-10594165654677320042010-05-28T09:00:00.000-05:002010-05-28T09:00:38.916-05:00Delizioso: Neapolitan pizza invades Logan Square via Ciao Napoli Pizzeria<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8Ij8d4QbO-nxGC40kfGAJRIteNE_cEVenonp8X48ieSddWTuqN4mc4Tq7J4GL6Pk3sDYFXGcVSErl0P3JzX0KW6MSoLLF-f4sZQmGu5wstv_uEF-uybPBf0DMFuskNcT-Eo9tRGFbvw/s1600/Ciao+interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8Ij8d4QbO-nxGC40kfGAJRIteNE_cEVenonp8X48ieSddWTuqN4mc4Tq7J4GL6Pk3sDYFXGcVSErl0P3JzX0KW6MSoLLF-f4sZQmGu5wstv_uEF-uybPBf0DMFuskNcT-Eo9tRGFbvw/s200/Ciao+interior.jpg" width="149" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Ciao </span><st1:place w:st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Napoli</span></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> Pizzeria</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-outline-level: 1;"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on">2607 N. Milwaukee Ave</st1:street>, <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city></st1:address></div><div class="MsoNormal">(773) 278-7300 </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-outline-level: 1;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>Hours:</b></i> 4 p.m.-midnight, Tues.-Fri.; 11 a.m.-midnight, Sat.-Sun.; closed Monday </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">The welcome invasion of authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan style pizza in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Chicago</st1:place></st1:city> continues in a big way. With the recent opening of Ciao Napoli Pizzeria, <st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Logan Square</st1:address></st1:street> is now the proud territory to this excellent pizza and more. This contemporary styled yet homey newcomer is a good neighborhood spot. The restaurant overlooks the Square with ceiling to floor glass windows. The décor is exposed brick and beautiful rustic wood tables. The staff is super friendly and enjoys schmoozing with the guests. It’s already bustling and, although it’s not a spacious restaurant, it doesn’t feel cramped. There is an ample bar area next to the main dining room.</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijL05irYHUXSFZg03GTovgrNLX_sTzMso1kXtJ2k0xxirtUIIAiOT8dT2DMkQQRuEXPNtsTO9K38B4reR47RbjBZl7mHmtwUUmWNoR1IsDxHqFDyarH8klrBtK89eJ4CKb8frUm9FqnFc/s1600/Pizza+Margarita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijL05irYHUXSFZg03GTovgrNLX_sTzMso1kXtJ2k0xxirtUIIAiOT8dT2DMkQQRuEXPNtsTO9K38B4reR47RbjBZl7mHmtwUUmWNoR1IsDxHqFDyarH8klrBtK89eJ4CKb8frUm9FqnFc/s200/Pizza+Margarita.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">The main draw is the pizza, which comes in two sizes (12” and 18”), is made from fresh, mostly imported ingredients. Whether you order a tomato-sauced version or a white version, the crust is king. Thin, chewy and slightly charred on the bottom, the way it should be. Among the choices, you can order Pizza D.O.C., a traditional Margherita, with tomato, fresh bufala mozzarella and basil. Pizza alla Diavola features tomato sauce, bufala mozzarella with spicy salamino; the vegetarian Pizza Primavera comes with tomato sauce, artichokes, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, artichokes, olives and zucchini. If you’re a cheese lover, don’t miss the<span style="color: black;"> <em><span lang="EN" style="font-style: normal;">Pizza 6 Formaggi,</span></em><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN"> </span></i><span lang="EN">featuring (only!) six cheeses. Pizza Pestum is a white pizza with bufala mozzarella, shrimp and parmigiano. </span></span><span style="color: black;">Pizza Bella features tomato sauce, bufala mozzarella, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, basil, crushed black pepper, extra virgin olive oil.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Btt9D9p_CG4xTknlewCKyJhdYsFtBoFZRk0C4wszGsQn-Pi81U_IThmp3NXa7v9ZaEgn1W2XDUIQnP2EA5zMpdbXozUkaY22vdqDMBTXhPh0fQCYJZDuP4yNwWrZdOU3P8q983vDcqo/s1600/Ciao+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Btt9D9p_CG4xTknlewCKyJhdYsFtBoFZRk0C4wszGsQn-Pi81U_IThmp3NXa7v9ZaEgn1W2XDUIQnP2EA5zMpdbXozUkaY22vdqDMBTXhPh0fQCYJZDuP4yNwWrZdOU3P8q983vDcqo/s200/Ciao+1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">There are a variety of home style appetizers and salads to start. The calamari was somewhat bland although properly cooked; some dipping sauce helps out and don’t be shy about asking for your choice of sauce to spruce it up. There are several bruschetta choices as well. You’ll also enjoy the prosciutto and mozzarella rollups.</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">The menu also offers several pasta dishes. For many, you can simply choose the type of pasta—fettuccini, gnocchi or penne—and your choice of sauce. Other dishes, such as Lasagna, come only as prepared, which isn’t a bad thing.</div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="color: black;">For dessert, we liked the Nutella (hazelnut spread) Italian doughnuts. You can also order </span>tiramisu and chocolate mousse, among others.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">As with many new restaurants, the food and/or timing can be a bit inconsistent. By now, however, most of the kinks should be worked out and we think it’s worth a try. If you haven’t tried this type of pizza, you’ve been waiting too long. Go for it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><st1:personname w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cindy Kurman</span></st1:personname><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Barrie and<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_530526029"> </a><st1:personname w:st="on"><a href="mailto:dinewise@kurman.com">Lee Barrie</a></st1:personname> are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>. You can follow us on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/dinewise">@DineWise</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-19776246814135101382010-05-25T12:58:00.000-05:002010-05-25T12:58:00.199-05:00Mexican seafood lovers, the road to happiness leads to Mariscos El Veneno<div class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Mariscos El Veneno</span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8flWnGht6BHw1GVtG7FoJI5WBEzDi8DgN0ItIv3oy5fl5e_whvrrW1OjAQrGwIEpRWLUOb3MEUyhyzsP8DSq9_32Zy9DqdKHSY5fFyHgAs5L4UCNc9Sqgg1XkGjL5cNXzH4wnAfEj-Q/s1600/Mariscos+El+Veneno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8flWnGht6BHw1GVtG7FoJI5WBEzDi8DgN0ItIv3oy5fl5e_whvrrW1OjAQrGwIEpRWLUOb3MEUyhyzsP8DSq9_32Zy9DqdKHSY5fFyHgAs5L4UCNc9Sqgg1XkGjL5cNXzH4wnAfEj-Q/s200/Mariscos+El+Veneno.jpg" width="175" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on">1024 N. Ashland Ave</st1:street>, <st1:city w:st="on">Chicago</st1:city></st1:address>; (773) 252-7200</div><div class="MsoNormal">6651 S. Pulaski, Chicago; (773) 582-5576</div><div class="MsoNormal">6835 S. Pulaksi, Chicago; (773) 735-7888</div><div class="MsoNormal">4465 S. Archer, Chicago; (773) 475-7044</div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on">1590 Busse Rd.</st1:street>, <st1:city w:st="on">Mt. Prospect</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">IL</st1:state></st1:address>; (847) 364-9988</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>Hours:</b></i> 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.-Sun.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Ashland Avenue</st1:address></st1:street>, just south of Division in the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ukrainian</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Village</st1:placetype></st1:place> neighborhood, has become a haven for casual, family-style Mexican restaurants. Typically, they are modest, mom and pop venues that cater to a largely Hispanic neighborhood crowd. But the one that often has the line of eager diners out front is Mariscos El Veneno, an exceptional Mexican seafood restaurant that has been under the radar screen for many Chicagoans. There are three other locations in the city and one in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">Mt.</st1:placetype> <st1:placename w:st="on">Prospect</st1:placename></st1:place>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This understated but festive and friendly casual eatery prepares a wide range of fish and seafood comfort dishes emanating from the Mexican west-central state of Nayarit, along the Pacific coast. These dishes are delicious and huge, huge, huge. The dining room is filled with the laughter and joy that comes from people loving their food, the staff and each others’ company. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Once you’re seated you’ll notice four bottles of hot chile sauce on the table, from mild to atomic—take your pick. Starting with the Shrimp Tostada, you’ll also notice that everything is freshly homemade and very tasty. When your server brings out the delicious taco chips and salsa, be forewarned—the salsa is HOT, HOT, VERY HOT. If you take more than a small dab, your mouth will burn for the next half hour. Trust us. So let us repeat: HOT, HOT, HOT! You’ve been forewarned.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBVlUH3rQoH9rvJi6Fo6yfLvdYn6idy35VqEyEf-6mdF3vbY32xbA8XTjrU1Hi35WfiP6OHKCGbBmtSYSE66Pp4bCXbZKbvtAQ4hmr-myENruBQmBNmY3d4DIVfRlbqSHT5ds2Kdi0Vk/s1600/Comp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBVlUH3rQoH9rvJi6Fo6yfLvdYn6idy35VqEyEf-6mdF3vbY32xbA8XTjrU1Hi35WfiP6OHKCGbBmtSYSE66Pp4bCXbZKbvtAQ4hmr-myENruBQmBNmY3d4DIVfRlbqSHT5ds2Kdi0Vk/s200/Comp.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">There are many delicious starters from which to choose. The oysters on the shell are very fresh; you can order them with melted cheese if you like. You’ll also enjoy the fish or shrimp tacos. The shrimp and fish ceviches are colorful and excellent. We think that the shrimp and octopus cocktail is memorable (you can get just shrimp if you prefer). There are two sizes; the large size can actually work as a light entrée. Another wonderful cocktail specialty is the so-called Poison Cup with shrimp, octopus, oysters, clams and marlin ceviche.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHz4cR7Al-lNaC5DZXfZUGlg2SjNlo2Zaf9HaFCD7J652oQg0LHYsBySpTTf8JcGBpxo0cMCxqMyBo4o3-V3Y7TKIchInFGfz2eS_9h823gFm0eAeJdHilm2nVAnAQkmkzZzuGfasCeY/s1600/Shrimp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHz4cR7Al-lNaC5DZXfZUGlg2SjNlo2Zaf9HaFCD7J652oQg0LHYsBySpTTf8JcGBpxo0cMCxqMyBo4o3-V3Y7TKIchInFGfz2eS_9h823gFm0eAeJdHilm2nVAnAQkmkzZzuGfasCeY/s200/Shrimp.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Moving on to the entrées, there is also a wide selection. These huge dishes are perfect for sharing, family style. You need order 2-3 entrees for four people, depending on how hungry you are. Even then, you still may wind up taking some home. There are many favorites. One of our personal favorites is the Cucarachas, a plate full of steamed shrimp prepared al ajillo (in a rich garlic sauce). You can also order the shrimp rancheros style (butter sauce) or a la diabla (breaded in a chile sauce). These are simply perfect, as well as perfectly simple. If you would like a wider variety of seafood, go for the Chapuzón del Mar, which includes octopus, oysters and shrimp, If you’re a crab legs fan, you’ll be very pleased with the Crab Legs Nayarit Style, marinated and steamed, served with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes and onions. Other seafood specialties include Stuffed Lobster, served either Nayrarit style or in a mushroom cream sauce.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If fish is your preference you have several ways to go. Filet of fish (catch of the day) can be prepared garlic-style, butter style or breaded. If you’d like whole fried fish you can order Fried Mojarra (tilapia) or Fried Huachinango (red snapper), served three ways.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Also note that you can order platter sized dishes if you’re with a larger group. For an added touch to your meal, enjoy some garlic bread and herbed rice as sides. The specialty dessert is homemade Pina Colada pie.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="WfxFaxNum"><st1:personname w:st="on"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Cindy Kurman</span></st1:personname><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"> Barrie and <st1:personname w:st="on">Lee Barrie</st1:personname> are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at <a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/">www.gotbuzzatkurman.com</a> and check out all DineWise articles at <a href="http://www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com/">www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-19206233093602443472010-05-12T16:14:00.000-05:002010-05-12T16:14:04.885-05:00Green City Market's 12th Outdoor Season Opened Today<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial-BoldItalicMT; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Reprinted from </span><a href="http://www.gotbuzzatkurman.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Got Buzz</span></a></span></div><b><i><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial-BoldItalicMT; font-size: 14pt;">Opening Grand Celebration May 15</span></i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sMe5aHAXI/AAAAAAAAKF8/lpOyfb2xxUU/s1600/P5120569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sMe5aHAXI/AAAAAAAAKF8/lpOyfb2xxUU/s200/P5120569.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;"><o:p> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">Chicago</span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">'s Green City Market (GCM) opened for its 12th outdoor season today (May 12) and is set for a lively grand opening celebration this Saturday (May 15). In addition to the wealth of farmers and producers, there will be a number of special activities during the opening celebration.</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings;">n </span><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">7:30 a.m. – Guided tour<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings;">n </span><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">8:00 a.m. – “Container Gardening” workshop taught by Edible<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">Gardens manager and organic gardener Jeanne Pinsof-Nolan<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings;">n </span><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">8:30 a.m. – Guided tour of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Edible</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Gardens</st1:placetype></st1:place> in Farm-in-the-Zoo led by<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">Jeanne Pinsof-Nolan<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings;">n </span><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">9:30 a.m. – Savor the Seasons Lettuce Fest<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 11pt;">§<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: CourierNewPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">F</span><i><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial-ItalicMT; font-size: 11pt;">eaturing chefs from Mon Ami Gabi, Big Bowl, Foodlife, Frankie’s and Café Ba Ba Reeba<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings;">n </span><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">10:30 a.m. – Chef demos with James Beard award winning chefs Carrie<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">Nahabedian of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">NAHA</st1:city></st1:place> and Sarah Stegner of Prairie Grass Café and<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">Prairie Fire.<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 11pt;">§<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 11pt;">NAHA</span></st1:place></st1:city><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 11pt;"> chefs Carrie Nahabedian and Craig Harzewski will collaborate with Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris (Prairie Grass Café and Prairie Fire) on demos featuring local goat cheese, rhubarb, duck eggs, bacon and bread from Bennison’s Bakery. Pastry chef Harzewski will demo making Goat Cheese Ice Cream topped with Rhubarb Compote made by Prairie Grass. The collaborative demos also will feature a grilled cheese, bacon and duck egg sandwich and a salad of spring greens, asparagus and herbs – all ingredients are available at GCM.<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><u><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">New this year:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sLMR1GEMI/AAAAAAAAKFs/WiwZRgfF4C4/s1600/P5120570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sLMR1GEMI/AAAAAAAAKFs/WiwZRgfF4C4/s200/P5120570.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">Green City Market boasts an impressive list of 55 vendors for its 2010 outdoor season with two new vendors: Dietzler Farm and Becker Lane Organic Farm.<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">A family-run beef operation, Dietzler Farm is located in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Elkhorn</st1:city>, <st1:state w:st="on">WI</st1:state></st1:place>. They raise a mixture of Angus and <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Hereford</st1:place></st1:city> cows that are custom slaughtered and dry-aged for 28-days. They are awaiting confirmation of their Food Alliance certification.<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sLw39Mj6I/AAAAAAAAKF0/Fwhs1xSexcc/s1600/P5120572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sLw39Mj6I/AAAAAAAAKF0/Fwhs1xSexcc/s200/P5120572.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: ArialMT;">Becker Lane Organic Farms is Green City Market's first <st1:state w:st="on">Iowa</st1:state> farm, located in Dyersville, just north of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Dubuque</st1:place></st1:city>. Jude Becker's farm has been in his family since 1850. He raises Heritage Breeds Cheshire White and <st1:place w:st="on">Berkshire</st1:place> pigs. The animals graze on 100 percent Certified Organic pastures and are supplemented with acorns, corn, and hay in the winter. <o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sNNhdbVoI/AAAAAAAAKGM/-c5FM7w_XfA/s1600/P5120582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sNNhdbVoI/AAAAAAAAKGM/-c5FM7w_XfA/s200/P5120582.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sMxZx6tlI/AAAAAAAAKGE/pIct7B3Gl0U/s1600/P5120578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_426TlpD_5gA/S-sMxZx6tlI/AAAAAAAAKGE/pIct7B3Gl0U/s200/P5120578.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-8426090296013094522010-05-04T07:53:00.000-05:002010-05-04T07:53:48.837-05:002010 James Beard Foundation Winners AnnouncedBy Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9ebpoLADzFfw5dhWHXQ4qRG_Z6nOKUCE2cbZAvBbeTm9q76z2-GAWAmQudcs12lIdZH7jz22b9rEEAgqAJGDP403XwhtI3YEuyMhQGQ3lGgCGb4fGZ46hlgLRl7jvYd9L4aZ-auJvak/s1600/Cindy+Kurman,+Lidia+Bastianich.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9ebpoLADzFfw5dhWHXQ4qRG_Z6nOKUCE2cbZAvBbeTm9q76z2-GAWAmQudcs12lIdZH7jz22b9rEEAgqAJGDP403XwhtI3YEuyMhQGQ3lGgCGb4fGZ46hlgLRl7jvYd9L4aZ-auJvak/s200/Cindy+Kurman,+Lidia+Bastianich.JPG" tt="true" width="200" /></a></div>Writing restaurant features for DineWise has its perks. We’ve met a lot of wonderful restaurateurs and have eaten some tremendous meals. Along the way, we’ve been fortunate to attend a lot of fabulous events, including this week’s 2010 James Beard Foundation Awards, the nation’s most prestigious recognition program honoring professionals in the food and beverage industries. <br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Chicago can be proud as it takes home a number of Beard awards including two Journalism Awards, one for Multimedia Food Feature, Kevin Pang, Chicagotribune.com for “The Cheeseburger Show;” another for Newspaper Feature Writing went to Cliff Doeksen, Chicago Reader, “The Real American Pie.”</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhccN3RZtp0AVNJVc3wfLh-M6h4gn7CaG0ij44K3yPU12CmEAuDaxb5-VHbG8VAjiFQQlbkYpVwKJKhkCjTRwepmtKstYZG5Be41YwvvM2bHQ1xxlhlkYV9JuBE2cR7p2g77msggO7zw/s1600/Grant+Achatz,+Lee+Barrie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhccN3RZtp0AVNJVc3wfLh-M6h4gn7CaG0ij44K3yPU12CmEAuDaxb5-VHbG8VAjiFQQlbkYpVwKJKhkCjTRwepmtKstYZG5Be41YwvvM2bHQ1xxlhlkYV9JuBE2cR7p2g77msggO7zw/s200/Grant+Achatz,+Lee+Barrie.JPG" tt="true" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The Outstanding Service Award went to Chicago’s Alinea, chef/owner Grant Achatz. Koren Grieveson, Avec chef, took home the award for Best Chef, Great Lakes.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Whether or not nominees took home an award, being recognized by the James Beard Foundation is an honor for chefs, restaurants and journalists who cover them. </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtQTNL_HXQrW3dQzpN_4CeLGcOa7HjcII01NUgKvDfaw3zZ9bsPLmj94n-yQNMETaF89vkMju5zwMGFVHg6NEhyO4TAAwmmGhg7OZ9ON7Sg6GzKO3mrnR3e4naKqPFI7THwH8QVDxKxQ/s1600/P5030231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtQTNL_HXQrW3dQzpN_4CeLGcOa7HjcII01NUgKvDfaw3zZ9bsPLmj94n-yQNMETaF89vkMju5zwMGFVHg6NEhyO4TAAwmmGhg7OZ9ON7Sg6GzKO3mrnR3e4naKqPFI7THwH8QVDxKxQ/s200/P5030231.JPG" tt="true" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Chicago’s nominees represented our best, Michael Carlson, Schwa; Arun Sampanthavivat, Arun’s; Mindy Segal, Hot Chocolate, and Bruce Sherman, North Pond.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
Journalists nominated included WLS-TV’s Hungry Hound Steve Dolinsky; Mike Sula, Chicago Reader; Kevin Pang, Chicago Tribune, and Monica Eng, Chicago Tribune. Rick Bayless was nominated as a TV Food Personality for his PBS series, Mexico One Plate at a Time.</div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBmDMVhJg0nlxDQ3ucPmwh-mPi3O24NWAYTzVtpAG3EyRcaoPivBiE1Yir4kTNE8LtIyxHTQ1jK10BY-zMi6IHdnZ7HzzzxWUIEaQHLrbgluBX1vcpQaxrzilUX55lg1vNP8d3cGSXTM/s1600/Kevin+Pang,+Andrew+Zimmern.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBmDMVhJg0nlxDQ3ucPmwh-mPi3O24NWAYTzVtpAG3EyRcaoPivBiE1Yir4kTNE8LtIyxHTQ1jK10BY-zMi6IHdnZ7HzzzxWUIEaQHLrbgluBX1vcpQaxrzilUX55lg1vNP8d3cGSXTM/s200/Kevin+Pang,+Andrew+Zimmern.JPG" tt="true" width="200" /></a>Restaurateurs are known for mentoring young professionals interested in the business. This year’s theme embraced the idea at all levels. In addition to the luminaries, the function showcased up-and-comers at the post-event reception including Priscilla Satkoff (Salpicon), serving Miniature Tostadas with Shredded Pork, Chorizo and Roasted Tomato-Chipotle Sauce, and Curtis Duffy (Avenues) who showcased Alaskan King Crab with Cucumber Consomme, Kalamansi, Floral Cream, and Lemon Balm.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">During a ceremony hosted by Lidia Bastianich, Alton Brown and Wolfgang Puck at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall, awards in the Restaurant, Chef, Design and Graphics categories were presented, as well as a number of special achievement awards including Who's Who of Food and Beverage in America, America's Classics, Lifetime Achievement, and Humanitarian of the Year. Winners of the Foundation's Book, Broadcast Media and Journalism awards categories were presented the evening before, on Sunday, May 2, 2010, at the annual Media and Book Awards dinner at Espace in New York City, hosted by Kelly Choi of Bravo's Top Chef Masters and Andrew Zimmern of the Travel Channel's Bizarre Foods. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A complete list of all award-winners can be found on<a href="http://www.jbfawards.com/"> www.JBFAwards.com. </a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Highlights from this year's list of winners include: </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Outstanding Chef: Tom Colicchio (Craft, NYC)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Outstanding Restaurant: Daniel (NYC, Chef/Owner: Daniel Boulud, Owner: Joel Smilow)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Rising Star Chef: Timothy Hollingsworth (The French Laundry, Yountville, CA)<br />
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</div>Best New Restaurant: Marea (NYC, Chef/Partner: Michael White, Partner: Chris Cannon)<br />
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</div>In addition, special achievement award honorees included:<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Who's Who of Food and Beverage in America: Leah Chase (Chef/Owner, Dooky Chase Restaurant, New Orleans, LA); Jessica B. Harris (Author and Historian, CA); Paul C.P. McIlhenny (President/CEO, McIlhenny Company, Avery Island, LA); David Rockwell (Founder/CEO, Rockwell Group, New York, NY); L. Timothy Ryan (President, Culinary Institute of America, New York, NY); Susan Spicer (Chef/Owner, Bayona, New Orleans, LA)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">America's Classics: Al's French Frys (owners: Bill Bissonette and Lee Bissonette, South Burlington, VT); The Bright Star (Owners: Jimmy Koikos and Nicky Koikos, Bessemer, AL); Calumet Fisheries (Owners: The Kotlick and Toll Families, Chicago, IL); Gustavus Inn (Owners: JoAnn and David Lesh, Gustavus, AK); Mary & Tito's Cafe (Owners: Mary Gonzales and Antoinette Knight, Albuquerque, NM)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Lifetime Achievement Award: Ariane and Michael Batterberry (Founders, Food and Wine and Food Arts)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Humanitarian of the Year: Wayne Kostroski (Founder, Taste of the NFL)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The Book, Broadcast Media and Journalism awards categories were presented on Sunday, May 2, 2010, at the annual Media and Book Awards dinner at Espace in New York City. Highlights included:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Cookbook of the Year: The Country Cooking of Ireland by Colman Andrews (Chronicle Books)<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Cookbook Hall of Fame: A Book of Middle Eastern Food by Claudia Roden</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writing Award: Francine Prose, Saveur, "Faith and Bacon"</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Television Show, In Studio or Fixed Location: French Food at Home with Laura Calder, Host: Laura Calder, Network: Food Network Canada, Producer: Johanna Eliot</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Television Show, On Location: Chefs A' Field: King of Alaska, Host: Rick Moonen, Network: PBS, Producers: Heidi Hanson and Chris Warner</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">TV Food Personality: Andrew Zimmern, Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, Network: The Travel Channel</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Newspaper Food Section: The Washington Post, Joe Yonan</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Craig Claiborne Distinguished Restaurant Reviews: Jonathan Gold, LA Weekly, "Sauced," "Hot Birria, Cold Cerveza," "Hare Today"</div><br />
Website Focusing on Food, Beverage, Restaurant, or Nutrition: Chow.com, Jane Goldman<br />
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</div>Food Blog: Serious Eats, Ed Levine, Seriouseats.com<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Industry leaders from across the country attended the highly-anticipated festivities, which celebrated this year's Awards theme of "The Legacy Continues," a tribute to the enduring impact of the standards of culinary excellence set by James Beard himself and all the talented professionals who keep those traditions alive. In a nod to this year's theme, each of the Outstanding Chef winners honored over the years, including Mario Batali, Thomas Keller, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Daniel Boulud, Nancy Silverton, Rick Bayless, Grant Achatz, Alfred Portale, Dan Barber, Larry Forgione and David Bouley, served as award presenters throughout the evening at the Awards Ceremony on Monday, May 3, 2010. At the Gala Reception immediately following the Awards Ceremony, guests enjoyed a dine-around gala prepared by notable chefs from across the country, each of whom was personally selected by a past Outstanding Chef winner.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Established in 1990, the James Beard Foundation Awards recognize culinary professionals for excellence and achievement in their fields and continue to emphasize the Foundation's mission: to celebrate, preserve, and nurture America's culinary heritage and diversity. The annual James Beard Foundation Awards honor the best and the brightest talents in the food and beverage industries, celebrating outstanding achievement in each of the following categories: Restaurant and Chef, Restaurant Design and Graphics, Books, Broadcast Media, Journalism, and special achievement awards. Each category has an individual Awards Committee made up of industry professionals who volunteer their time to oversee the policies, procedures, and selection of judges for their respective Awards program. All award winners receive a certificate and a bronze medallion engraved with the James Beard Foundation Awards insignia. There are no cash prizes.<br />
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</div>The 2010 James Beard Foundation Awards are presented with support by the following companies: In Association Sponsors: All-Clad Metalcrafters, Visa Signature®; Premier Sponsors: Green and Black's® Organic Chocolate, Lenox Tableware and Gifts, Mercedes-Benz; Supporting Sponsors: The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines, Food Network NYC Wine and Food Festival, illy caffe North America, Inc., Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Southern Wine and Spirits of New York, Stella Artois; Gala Reception Sponsors: Acqua Panna® Natural Spring Water, Beijing Tourism Administration, Ecolab, Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival, Pernod Ricard USA, Rums of Puerto Rico, S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water; Media Sponsor: The Wall Street Journal and with additional support from Chefwear.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">About the James Beard Foundation</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Founded in 1986, the James Beard Foundation is dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and nurturing America's culinary heritage and diversity in order to elevate the appreciation of our culinary excellence. A cookbook author and teacher with an encyclopedic knowledge about food, James Beard, who died in 1985, was a champion of American cuisine. He helped educate and mentor generations of professional chefs and food enthusiasts. Today, the Beard Foundation continues in the same spirit by administering a number of diverse programs that include educational initiatives, food industry awards, scholarships to culinary schools, and publications, and by maintaining the historic James Beard House in New York City's Greenwich Village as a "performance space" for visiting chefs. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.jamesbeard.org/">http://www.jamesbeard.org/</a>. Find insights on food at the James Beard Foundation's blog Delights & Prejudices. Join the James Beard Foundation on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=50289624027&ref=search&sid=632515766.1442172773..1">Facebook</a>. Follow the James Beard Foundation on <a href="http://twitter.com/beardfoundation">Twitter.</a><br />
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<a href="http://kurman.mycapture.com/mycapture/folder.asp?event=997058&CategoryID=29437&ListSubAlbums=1">Photos of the May 2 Media & Cookbook Awards</a>.<br />
<a href="http://kurman.mycapture.com/mycapture/folder.asp?event=997063&CategoryID=29437&ListSubAlbums=0">Photos of the May 3 Awards.</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Photos: <br />
Cindy Kurman and Lidia Bastianich<br />
Grant Achatz and Lee Barrie<br />
Mindy Segal and friend<br />
Kevin Pang and Andrew Zimmern<br />
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<a href="http://dinewise.blogspot.com/">DineWise</a> is a weekly column appearing in <a href="http://www.streetwise.org/">StreetWise</a> magazine. Lee Barrie is on the StreetWise board of directors and he and his wife Cindy own Kurman Communications, a Chicago-based public relations agency specializing in lifestyle, restaurant and hospitality strategic branding, marketing promotions, media relations and social networking. If you'd like your restaurant to be featured on the DineWise blog and in StreetWise magazine, please contact <a href="mailto:dinewise@kurman.com">dinewise@kurman.com</a>. You can follow DineWise on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/dinewise">@Dinewise</a> and follow us <a href="http://www.twitter.com/kurmanstaff">@kurmanstaff</a>.<br />
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</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7910178154946706459.post-9618967830555739842010-04-19T10:30:00.000-05:002010-04-19T10:30:39.938-05:00Mother’s Day: Time for a Sunday Drive and a Hearty Spring Feast in ChicagoMother’s Day is the unofficial beginning of spring. So hop in the car and enjoy a Sunday drive with the family, then sit down to a gracious brunch at one of these popular spots.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NjevO_a9HCMYMOAgN869_OjAtbqUf7DnNC-OFurTp39RXfmMTYKS2ZcP6Fhxh_43UzYuccH8YtQnxPoFJfNuM6HH5K1SKzlyP6CBVxWvdkNIcmuXrbN3r3Du28EA5GJeSytPF5ZWiIc/s1600/Glen+Prairie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="35" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NjevO_a9HCMYMOAgN869_OjAtbqUf7DnNC-OFurTp39RXfmMTYKS2ZcP6Fhxh_43UzYuccH8YtQnxPoFJfNuM6HH5K1SKzlyP6CBVxWvdkNIcmuXrbN3r3Du28EA5GJeSytPF5ZWiIc/s200/Glen+Prairie.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>WEST:</b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://glenprairie.webs.com/">Glen Prairie</a></span></b>, 1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, IL (630) 613-1250; www.glenprairie.com<br />
Mother’s Day Brunch, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $29 for adults, $12 for kids age 5-12, kids 4 and under are free<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAHp8Huj0ss3RN8fHzIEF77yc_wMGFcJ1GW8mdcZAgvuz2ix6kVn7R5v-aPGVe4PraEX1ndMK7kjcoTzMijIwHI3T5a2krrMLAxE-KDzx6B4JTrIIoJ4DeYTvquPwXddxusR8nXFPGuY/s1600/Glen+Prairie+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAHp8Huj0ss3RN8fHzIEF77yc_wMGFcJ1GW8mdcZAgvuz2ix6kVn7R5v-aPGVe4PraEX1ndMK7kjcoTzMijIwHI3T5a2krrMLAxE-KDzx6B4JTrIIoJ4DeYTvquPwXddxusR8nXFPGuY/s200/Glen+Prairie+photo.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>One of Chicago Magazine’s top new restaurants in 2008, the beautiful Glen Prairie has won a large following with its top notch locally produced contemporary American fare. <br />
<b>Highlights:</b> Salad Station, with Grilled Vegetable Salad with herb and balsamic glaze or Spinach and Berry Salad; Bakery Station, with assorted house baked breakfast pastries, artisan rolls and maple thyme butter; Farm Fresh Buffet includes Omelets Made to Order, Broiled Tilapia, Scrambled Eggs with chives and aged cheddar, Applewood Smoked Bacon and Maple Sausage; Chefs Station offers Honey and Sage Roasted Turkey Breast with cranberry citrus relish and Herb Roasted Iowa Farmed Beef Sirloin with marchan de vin; Kids Corner, with French Toast Sticks, Amish Chicken Nuggets, Pasta with Marina Sauce, French Bread Pizzas and Fruit Cup. For dessert, indulge in the Sweet Table.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM4RA0JEAS_9Ul1-Ro-hAFPWC1skAuK2PEgZhATY6NYEWbl2C1TBrimQDYGME5UNKCXK3XkypkZxWqMATqfu9pgwA70W7n7VofW4BlEeeEIA98yleWZdej-MPutkqP0WXluvUt6_Pmzo/s1600/Birch+River+Grill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM4RA0JEAS_9Ul1-Ro-hAFPWC1skAuK2PEgZhATY6NYEWbl2C1TBrimQDYGME5UNKCXK3XkypkZxWqMATqfu9pgwA70W7n7VofW4BlEeeEIA98yleWZdej-MPutkqP0WXluvUt6_Pmzo/s200/Birch+River+Grill.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>NORTHWEST:</b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.birchrivergrill.com/">Birch River Grill</a></span></b>, 75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, IL; (847) 427-4242; www.birchrivergrill.com<br />
Mother’s Day Brunch, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $31.95 for adults, $13.95 for kids 5-10; kids under 4 are free.<br />
Birch River Grill, with its comfortable lodge décor and rustic gourmet American cuisine, is a special restaurant in the Arlington Heights area.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvm5g7VX7lTT56cDahHRIoNYwYrcn3cGvCjRbuSJrFpwKVIActnxUTq8tjdbfajYMkB74G5ITMSUmlVZ6Duk3HBmLC3xmLze5W_HDCgWlRnWLC8FOkoEdQtpn9KwK_U0pBV_InIJIfTU/s1600/Birch+River+Grill+Heath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvm5g7VX7lTT56cDahHRIoNYwYrcn3cGvCjRbuSJrFpwKVIActnxUTq8tjdbfajYMkB74G5ITMSUmlVZ6Duk3HBmLC3xmLze5W_HDCgWlRnWLC8FOkoEdQtpn9KwK_U0pBV_InIJIfTU/s200/Birch+River+Grill+Heath.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Highlights:</b> Seafood Station, with whole smoked King Salmon, whole smoked trout and peel and eat cocktail shrimp; Continental Station, with fresh baked bread, muffins, croissants, Danish, fresh fruit and berries; Made to Order Station featuring eggs, omelets, waffles, fresh Belgium waffles, country sausage links and peppered bacon; Carving Station, sirloin of beef and roasted turkey breast; Hot Buffet, fire roasted rainbow trout with wild rice pilaf and citrus butter; Salad Station; Kidz Buffet, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, mac and cheese, pizza sticks, French toast sticks and fruit cups; Desserts, including their signature carrot cake, cakes and tortes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFM5N37XHqKm4OKqMDWJq-jCd-OgtQ6ZlUQpv9Po4xPdjoSoRpQB-XYbSRejnX9BY5PzQoc27g8eGiZeDWMrWFinDomKTdiZ40Mgagiw0hZY_4yQKOKwwP4l_i-m-iMd4_NmSl_VZgls/s1600/Courtrights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFM5N37XHqKm4OKqMDWJq-jCd-OgtQ6ZlUQpv9Po4xPdjoSoRpQB-XYbSRejnX9BY5PzQoc27g8eGiZeDWMrWFinDomKTdiZ40Mgagiw0hZY_4yQKOKwwP4l_i-m-iMd4_NmSl_VZgls/s200/Courtrights.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>SOUTH-SOUTHWEST:</b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.courtrights.com/">Courtright’s</a></span></b>, 8989 South Archer, Willow Springs, IL; (708) 839-8000; www.courtrights.com<br />
Mother’s Day All-Day Dinner, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; 4 courses, $55; 3 courses, $49; kids menu, $29.<br />
Courtright’s has been a noteworthy fine dining staple in the southwest suburbs for years. It’s an attractive and welcoming restaurant, both inside and out, and the extensive wine collection is exceptional. Mother’s Day is an all-day feast, with 3- and 4-course menus and a special children’s menu.<br />
<b>Highlights</b>: Starters such as Duck Terrine with Vidalia onion-rhubarb chutney; pan-seared scallops with artichoke-bell pepper terrine, tomatoes and basil-feta vinaigrette; or prosciutto-wrapped asparagus with sauce gribiche; entrees include roasted Alaskan halibut with fennel puree, saffron brandade, roasted peanuts, pearl onions and mussel jus; roasted rack of lamb with minted lamb sausage, bacon-spring pea puree, braised baby carrots and lamb jus; and beef tenderloin with celery root puree, shiitake mushrooms and Cabernet sauce. Dessert includes Grand Marnier-marinated strawberries with a chocolate waffle and Chantilly cream.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hO9MpEhs6NVZnwmjoYsd0sxfJLJiOvgSQZSmAldaCyzotubXuG71dTp4ctKcjN57s32GMtkELsaLY3r9AeaHz_kpF8MKoqaYu-vaYEeonhTEQU6v59SeKtiaihwPFnYJ3yo04Fapg3Y/s1600/Restaurant+Michael.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="95" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hO9MpEhs6NVZnwmjoYsd0sxfJLJiOvgSQZSmAldaCyzotubXuG71dTp4ctKcjN57s32GMtkELsaLY3r9AeaHz_kpF8MKoqaYu-vaYEeonhTEQU6v59SeKtiaihwPFnYJ3yo04Fapg3Y/s200/Restaurant+Michael.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>NORTH:</b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.restaurantmichael.com/">Restaurant Michael</a></span></b>, 64 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, IL; (847) 441-3100; www.restaurantmichael.com<br />
Mother’s Day Brunch, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; adults, $39; kids under 10, $19.50<br />
Take the scenic route along Sheridan Road and then migrate to nearby Green Bay Road to enjoy iconic chef/owner Michael Lachowicz’s always amazing French fare.<br />
<b>Highlights</b>: six appetizer choices including smoked salmon, Seared Scallops, Bacon and onion tarts, three entrées including Baby Lamb Chops, Roast Chateaubriand of beef tenderloin and Lobster Risotto, plus traditional omelets and Eggs Benedict, and four seasonal desserts.<br />
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<b>WEST-NORTHWEST</b>: <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.entourageventures.com/">Entourage on American Lane</a></span></b>, 1301 American Lane, Schaumburg, IL; (847) 995-9400; www.entourageventures.com<br />
Mother’s Day Brunch, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; adults, $36.95; kids 6-12, $15.95; kids under 5, free<br />
Entourage is one of the best suburban restaurants to open in the past few years. It’s spacious and stylishly contemporary, with excellent food and creative drinks.<br />
<b>Highlights:</b> Chef-carved prime rib, turkey and ham, omelet station, smoked salmon, cocktail shrimp, oysters on the half shell, egg specialties, lots of salads, French toast, pasta dishes, Hawaiian chicken, a children’s table and a decadent dessert station.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCuMOpSdtyO-b14SQRKlQQcXIZjHyip-V4tU8z7Tn1Nz4JsdlLZblpALs854T5lzMRlCPynrdmWoD5qLCUzCu5unf_0MgWJi6fA7jbQgbR7DgHdIadyof7V5UB6nkfQOJ3KlowWb9_SQ/s1600/Karma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCuMOpSdtyO-b14SQRKlQQcXIZjHyip-V4tU8z7Tn1Nz4JsdlLZblpALs854T5lzMRlCPynrdmWoD5qLCUzCu5unf_0MgWJi6fA7jbQgbR7DgHdIadyof7V5UB6nkfQOJ3KlowWb9_SQ/s200/Karma.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>NORTH-NORTHWEST:</b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.karmachicago.com/">Karma</a></span></b>, 510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, Illinois, 847-970-6900, www.karmachicago.com<br />
Mother’s Day brunch, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; adults, $27.95; kids, $12.95; kids under 5 free<br />
Karma is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the Chicagoland area. For Mother’s Day, Karma will offer an eclectic brunch featuring contemporary American dishes as well as their signature pan-Asian fare.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNwCm-4IDfHplWyFZh-MO0mUfaKIoh0PlnaRtsuyTURSsKYg0piBI1-3gBc_cmyUTCHXklu61i-rlvLFrJJb5hx6v0T4TH6LsGl-f4sK0op-FpClOCKA5Lel9ZjKKFMY43_HOejOFGcI/s1600/Karma+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNwCm-4IDfHplWyFZh-MO0mUfaKIoh0PlnaRtsuyTURSsKYg0piBI1-3gBc_cmyUTCHXklu61i-rlvLFrJJb5hx6v0T4TH6LsGl-f4sK0op-FpClOCKA5Lel9ZjKKFMY43_HOejOFGcI/s200/Karma+photo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Highlights:</b> Seafood Station with citrus poached King Salmon and Creole Seafood Salad;<br />
Omelet Station; Hot Food Station with Asian BBQ seared Salmon and Mustard Crusted Roast Pork Loin; Carving Station with Herb and Garlic Crusted Roast Beef and<br />
Oak Roasted Turkey Breast; Dessert Station with assorted mini French pastries and bakery fresh Tortes and Pies<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PLjXSLYh1-J3pHKDjQBkcB95w8SM3Owe2tzvFWX9V142FM25jlmjbZm27isQh0Jyetr841Y8HyniXfrHkyFRvpZFlchE-sjSKs93-yXXsMsypzif0qkxb_nyMGgH0raWpYELklqmrJY/s1600/Dine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PLjXSLYh1-J3pHKDjQBkcB95w8SM3Owe2tzvFWX9V142FM25jlmjbZm27isQh0Jyetr841Y8HyniXfrHkyFRvpZFlchE-sjSKs93-yXXsMsypzif0qkxb_nyMGgH0raWpYELklqmrJY/s200/Dine.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>IN THE CITY:</b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.dinerestaurant.com/">Dine</a></span></b>, 733 W. Madison, Chicago, IL (312) 602-2100; www.dinerestaurant.com<br />
Mother’s Day brunch, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; adults, $39; kids, $15; kids five and under, free<br />
Dine’s generous, tasty brunch has been popular in Greektown for quite awhile. For Mother’s Day, they’re turning it up a notch with a down-home comfort food feast.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66eexhf29ND-9W-xS_ddgerdmijhcHUDd2WD9aSQrjaa2fTiDjcB2L6NbGb2V1Y68VTf6pl2Jzd5JBXxiAqAgJhi8NpZjnfVEYskL6PcD1wHZzWb9n6HCXHkyIn6QUPE8kH5ulrYeHXo/s1600/Dine+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66eexhf29ND-9W-xS_ddgerdmijhcHUDd2WD9aSQrjaa2fTiDjcB2L6NbGb2V1Y68VTf6pl2Jzd5JBXxiAqAgJhi8NpZjnfVEYskL6PcD1wHZzWb9n6HCXHkyIn6QUPE8kH5ulrYeHXo/s200/Dine+bar.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Highlights: </b>Carving Station, with smoked bone-in ham, oven roasted turkey and beef tenderloin; Build Your Own Omelets; Breakfast Selections with peppered bacon and sausage links, biscuits and gravy, waffles with maple syrup, smoked salmon, fresh fruit and berries; Lunch Entrees, including stuffed chicken marsala, poached salmon, beef stir-fry; Build Your Own Pasta, featuring homemade sauce with fresh meats and vegetables; Assorted Seafood, including shrimp, oysters, clams and mussels; Kids Station, with macaroni and cheese, chicken tenders, cheese pizza and creamed corn; Assorted Gourmet Desserts.<br />
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</div>Cindy & Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01895822322119609436noreply@blogger.com0