Currently browsing Blog

Mitsuwa Marketplace Offers Japanese Food, Produce in Revamped Space

After more than three decades in business, the Mitsuwa Marketplace in Arlington Heights just completed a major renovation. The store is a beacon for all things Japanese, and draws customers from all over the Midwest. It’s a completely different feeling at Mitsuwa these days. Gleaming shelves, wide aisles and the usual assortment of freshly-prepared Japanese … Continued

Neapolitan and Artisan Style Pizzas

We all know how important pizza is in Chicago, there are now two new spots that make great pies and aren’t deep dish or tavern-style. Not many pizza places in town are making their own cheese, but at the new Mozzarella Store, Pizza and Caffe just off of Michigan Avenue, the Italian import is making … Continued

Where to Find the Best Boudin in Louisiana

In early 2002, Calvin Trillin wrote a funny yet memorable story in The New Yorker about Cajun boudin (“Missing Links”) that has stuck with me ever since. In the years since I read the story, I’ve been to New Orleans several times, and have seen boudin on local menus; it’s usually gussied up with a … Continued

Fine Indian Dining, Rooh Chicago

A new wave of Indian restaurants have been popping up in Chicago recently. Not to be confused with all-you-can-eat buffets on Devon Avenue, these are in high-rent areas, with classically-trained chefs making dishes inspired by classics, but often reinterpreted. And that’s the case at our food reporter’s latest find, on West Randolph. You can tell … Continued

Fast Indian Food at Tikka N’ Curry

There are plenty of fast food options near the Chicago Board Options Exchange, but most of those South Loop options are of the burger, fry or sub sandwich variety. A new concept – promising fast, fresh and flavorful Indian food – has already a gained a loyal following in the short time its been in … Continued

Classic Desserts

One has been making and selling its ice cream for 84 years in Wilmette, while the other has been doing the same for more than 90 years in Beverly. People come from all over the South Side for a taste of nostalgia at The Original Rainbow Cone. Located in a house once occupied by Joe … Continued

French Bistro is Served, Bon Appétit

French restaurants haven’t completely gone out of fashion. A little bistro in downtown Highland Park is giving the North Shore reason to go out to eat. It’s run by a couple with decades of experience in the restaurant business, with a simple menu of French classics. You may think French bistro fare consists of mainly … Continued