Win this book, become a better cook. We’re giving away some more cookbooks, as we kick off 2014 with a commitment to learning how to cook. I’m in the midst of Michael Pollan’s Cooking right now, which I highly recommend, even if you haven’t read Omnivore’s Dilemma. It has me yearning to spend more time … Continued
Cubano from Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop Miami, FL – Beware of staff members asking questions. That is, unless you’re ready to open up your wallet. This was the lesson my family and I learned the hard way after a frustrating, weeklong stay at the gloriously refurbished Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel. The 60 year-old landmark underwent a … Continued
So much of what makes chefs successful today is their approach to dealing with the press. Just look at Graham Elliot. If you have a big personality, your own restaurant and a unique offering, chances are pretty good the media – and by that I mean TV, radio, print and online food blogs – will … Continued
Pecking Order’s Pinoy Eggs for Christmas Eve. If you haven’t already made your reservations in Chinatown this Christmas Eve, or you’re just in the mood for something a little different next Tuesday night, may I suggest Christine Subido’s family tradition from the Philippines: nochebuena. Traditionally celebrated in Latin America, Spain and the Philippines, this Christmas … Continued
Last week, Michael Roper tackled a few US beers in the Christmas spirit; today, it’s off to Belgium, where he’s got three more to recommend, including his favorite, Gouden Carolus, a deep, intense beer that really delivers a lot of flavor – without the cloying spices inherent in so many of this season’s brews. This … Continued
With Texas-style brisket on my mind this week, after my second trip to Austin last weekend, I felt it would only be prudent to let you know about my favorite Texas-style brisket in Chicago. This is not the Montreal influenced, coriander-and-pepper-rubbed, cured and smoked beauty that is Fumare, but rather, a humble expression of brisket … Continued
AUSTIN, TX – My friend Lewis has been talking about returning to Central Texas, ever since we attempted to conquer most of the notable barbecue houses last year. Over the course of three days in October of 2012, we hit eight different places, including some non-barbecue restaurants and even a doughnut shop. After I posted … Continued
Click here to read Steve’s interview about how he started Culinary Communications, a media training business focusing on the food & beverage industry
This week, Michael Roper is talking Christmas beer, but not just with one pick – Anchor, of course – but also Great Lakes and Ommegang. These three U.S. producers are all making toast-worthy Christmas ales right now, so go pick up a six-pack, or just head over to The Hopleaf, where they have plenty. Cheers.
For the past several Decembers, we’ve made a tradition out of attending the annual julbord, or Christmas buffet, at Tre Kronor, on Chicago’s Northwest Side. The Swedish restaurant turns itself into a Christmas jewel box, offering two seatings every night at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. (except Sundays) and lays out the largest spread of … Continued
Rapini and parm bruschetta from Eataly’s vegetarian restaurant, Le Verdure The numbers alone are staggering: $70 million invested in a 63,000 square foot space (13k larger than New York’s, by the way), and a labyrinth of 10 different eating opportunities/restaurants. Add to that a Lavazza coffee bar, a butcher, a fishmonger, a dry goods section, … Continued