I was just in Naples for a few days, checking off a bucketlist trip to the birthplace of the pizzeria. Neapolitan pizza is adored for its quick, high heat bake; its leopard spotted cornicione (perimeter) and somewhat juicy/soupy middle. It’s the original “pizza” but of course, it’s not as widely known in America. In fact, … Continued
This taqueria, along busy Western Ave., hand-stacks their tacos al pastor with pork, but they also make a delicious vegetarian version with celery root and portobello mushrooms in butter confit. The melding of French and Mexican techniques is consistent, since each of the two chef-partners hails from different backgrounds. Taqueria Chingón 2234 N. Western … Continued
Shawarma stands selling falafel, kabobs and other Middle Eastern dishes are all over the region. But a locally-owned concept – with locations in Skokie and the West Loop – differentiates itself, by hand-stacking their shawarma each day into giant cones that are cooked slowly. Crave Kabob 1521 W. Madison St. 312-600-6800 http://www.cravekabob.com 7240 Niles Center … Continued
There were no ball drops last night at midnight, but Friday is the Chinese New Year. The Year of the Ox would typically usher in parades and family feasts in Chinatown, but with COVID-19, it’s obviously a different story. I visited a pair of restaurants this weekend. One specializes in Hunan cuisine and the other focuses … Continued
As we kick off Black History this month, I’ve been searching out some of the oldest Black-owned businesses in the area. I talked to the family behind a pioneer: Harold’s Chicken Shack, which just celebrated its 70th year in business. Harold’s Chicken 45 locations (26 in Illinois) http://www.haroldschickenscorp.com/locations/
February is Black History Month, and to kick things off, I’m taking a look at a couple of legendary Black-owned businesses where they’ve been feeding their neighbors for decades. Old Fashioned Donuts 11248 S. Michigan Ave. 773-995-7420 https://m.facebook.com/Old-Fashioned-Donuts-Inc-111494095555975/
For years, fans of the Jewish deli have lamented its demise in Chicago. Only a handful remain, like Eleven City Diner or Manny’s in the South Loop. But a couple of new options have emerged during the pandemic – offering takeout – including one in the West Loop that’s sure to be a destination once indoor dining … Continued
While the pandemic has been brutal for restaurants, it’s been even harder for bars. At least with restaurants, you can order take out; but most bars are unable to bottle their handcrafted cocktails, especially if they call for fresh juice. But a new company in Skokie is helping them create, bottle and ship those cocktails all … Continued
Had enough turkey this week? Well, if you think you can’t handle another bite, there’s a barbecue spot in Forest Park where they’re smoking turkey breast – along with ribs and brisket – to create some memorable meals, even if you’re still full from Thanksgiving. Small Batch BBQ 7441 W. Madison St., Forest Park 708-689-8075 … Continued
2020 has been a brutal year for restaurants, but for a few local icons, it’s been a year of milestones: 70 years for D’Amato’s Bakery and Pat’s Pizza. A hundred years for Vito & Nick’s. And a very thankful third generation at Lawrence’s Fish and Shrimp, where they’re celebrating 70 years in business as well. … Continued
With the holidays approaching and most restaurants closed to indoor dining, bakeries seem to be opening at a frantic pace. This week, I visited two new spots in the city where creative pastry chefs are leading the way. Sugargoat 820 W. Randolph St. 312-667-0108 www.sugargoatsweets.com Brite Donuts & Baked Goods Available at Metric Coffee, 2021 W. … Continued