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Watch Then Taste The 2011 Chicago Food Film Festival

What’s better than popcorn, boxed candy and a giant cola for a date night at the movies? Going to a film festival where you can taste what you see. The second annual Chicago Food Film Festival features short food documentaries that pair well with what attendees are tasting. The festival is broken down into four … Continued

Eating Farm Fresh at Duke’s

By Rebecca Zborowski Hapless Intern   I recently watched the documentary “Food Inc,” which was like Scared Straight for my diet. In the past, I’ve tried to make a conscious effort to go vegetarian or even just focus more on organics, but it never sticks.  No matter how long I deny them, McDonald’s and bacon … Continued

Hawaiian Shave Ice from Ululani’s

  I fully realize that it’s getting much colder outside, so why the tease for Hawaii? Because honestly, couldn’t we all use a little dose of extreme sunshine every now and then? This was from a trip I took back in September; just 10 minutes from the airport on Maui, in Kahului, I stopped by … Continued

Join Me For Dinner, Help A Great Cause

One of my favorite ways to experience the finesse, precision and beauty of Japanese cuisine is through an omakase, or chef’s tasting menu. I’m also a huge supporter of the local chapter of Share Our Strength, an organization that is committed to ending childhood hunger. So when the folks at Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar … Continued

avec

One of my favorite places to eat in Chicago. Refined rusticity, with an eye toward the Mediterranean. Craveable dishes complemented by an ambitious wine list.

Thanksgiving Alternatives, No Cooking Required

Those Rockwellian images of Thanksgivings past – replete with familes gathering around food-laden tables – impart a little too much pressure on the modern family. Two income households, ridiculous travel plans involving plane changes or delays, bratty kids; I get it. Compounding the problem is every media outlet and magazine, devoting way too much space … Continued

Four Seasons “Re-Concepting,” Chicago’s Fine Dining Landscape Continues To Evolve

After the ball drops next month, so will the hammer.   Chicago is losing yet another fine-dining destination after New Year’s Eve, as the Four Seasons will close Seasons Restaurant, then drastically renovate the area encompassing its bar, lounge and conservatory area, creating a new restaurant concept that democratizes the dining experience.   “It will … Continued

Top 5 Wine Lists in Chicago

In honor of Pinot Days coming to Chicago this weekend (and keep reading to see how you can score a discount if you’re interested in going), I thought it would be appropriate to run down the list of Chicago’s best wine lists. I sought some input from Fernando Beteta, a Master Sommelier who is the … Continued

How To Make An “Apple Cider” For Grown-ups

  I realize not all ciders are equal. While I love nothing more than drinking the unfiltered juice of apples straight off a cider press, sometimes the situation calls for something a bit more, how shall I say, inspired? Fortunately, the guys over at Tenzing – a Chicago-based wine and spirits company – are constantly … Continued