It seems like there are more food festivals than ever. Not just the biggies, in places like Aspen, South Beach and Pebble Beach, but also regional events that bring together local artisans. Chocolate, however, transcends frequency and inclement weather. In three weeks, chocolatiers from as far as California and Maine are going to be bringing … Continued
There are dozens of Italian restaurants in Chicago, but only a small percentage go that extra mile and make all of their pastas in-house from scratch. A new restaurant in the West Loop is committed to hand-making everything, including one pasta dish that has become a personal favorite.
Though a meatball concept in Wicker Park failed to capture the city’s heart, Formento’s perspective on the humble Italian icon remains unfazed. This Sunday, Chef Chris Pandel of B. Hospitality Co. and The Bristol’s Sean Pharr welcome a slew of acclaimed chefs to compete in a friendly Battle of the Balls. The only traditional ball … Continued
I’ve always thought Nick Nitti had a way with dough. Ever since he opened Forno Rosso in the Dunning neighborhood, on the city’s far West Side, he’s been consistently cranking out some of the best Neapolitan pies in the region. He is somewhat of an evangelist on the merits of fior di latte, San Marzanos … Continued
Whereas retail boasts sales aplenty after the holidays, restaurants typically suffer low attendance – not to mention worn-out staff whose vacation (if such a respite exists) lasts a few short days in January. Restaurant Week, running from Friday, January 22 through Thursday, February 4, aims to ameliorate a typically quiet two weeks with prix-fixe feasts across … Continued
Since retiring from his famed namesake in Avondale last year, Doug Sohn has humbly managed to stay as relevant – and line-inducing – as ever. Starting at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 18, he pulls an all-day shift behind the counter (in true Hot Doug fashion, no table service) at Publican Quality Meats. In addition … Continued
Despite our pre-occupation with turkey this week, Chicago still loves its steaks. That’s due in part to men like Gustavus Swift, who helped establish beef processing in the old Union Stockyards. Steakhouses continue to multiply in the city, but a new one in the West Loop sets itself apart mainly due to the items on … Continued
To be honest, I usually just get a sandwich at Publican Quality Meats, the butcher/sandwich shop/deli across the street from The Publican in Fulton Market. I know they care deeply about their pork products – yesterday during lunch alfresco, I saw them unload at least four whole pigs from Slagel Farms, and a quick scan … Continued
You’ve got a look a little harder to find Nonna’s, tucked into the back of the big and flashy Formento’s on West Randolph, but the search is worth it.
From the Boka Restaurant Group (Boka, Girl & the Goat, GT Fish, etc.) the company’s first Japanese concept is a stunner. Up until I went, there were only a handful of sushi restaurants in Chicago I would even recommend (Katsu, Mirai, Juno), but add Momotaro to this list. Not only is the fish sliced expertly, … Continued
Say what you will about Montreal smoked meat, but Schwartz’s – that legendary icon – is nothing more than a tourist trap. On my most recent visit, a few years ago, I got a tour of the kitchen and noticed they don’t smoke the cured briskets anymore; haven’t since the 60s. What they serve at … Continued