In the pantheon of cuisines that usually get thrown out as options when deciding where to go for dinner, Turkish food is usually not one of them. Mexican? Thai? Italian? Yes, we all have take out menus stuffed into that “misc./tool” drawer in our kitchens. But I’m guessing there aren’t many of you craving a … Continued
Some like buffets. Others prefer their Easter brunches a la carte. If you’re still trying to figure out where to go this weekend, here are five excellent choices, ranging from casual to partial mortgage payments. 1. The Four Seasons If you work for JP Morgan or Goldman Sachs, go ahead, blow some of your bonus money … Continued
The best roast chicken I ever had was at Zuni Café, on Market Street in San Francisco. I’m not sure what Judy Rodgers does to it – they’re most likely brined to retain moisture well ahead of time, and the heat, well, I’m positive it comes from a lot of hardwood. Chicago isn’t exactly a roast … Continued
Has it jumped the shark yet? Is bacon as ubiquitous as tiramisu on Taylor Street? Some would argue yes, but many in the food community say bring it on. While the back/side of the hog – the source of bacon – continues to show up on nearly every menu, right alongside beet-and-goat-cheese salads, if you … Continued
Grabbing a beer and a shot in Chicago is easy. But it seems like every other neighborhood bar has the same menu these days: (fill in the blank) sliders, “flatbreads” (a.k.a. weak pizza) and that ubiquitous duo – beets with goat cheese and/or some form of pork belly. But there are bars in Chicago where … Continued
I realize the sheer number of Italian restaurants in our area makes this a somewhat daunting proposition. After last week’s “overrated” edition, I’m turning to my top 5 this week, and all of these places have a few things in common: for one thing, they make pretty much everything – from the grissini and focaccia, … Continued
I realize today is St. Patrick’s Day, but did you also realize that Saturday is St. Joseph’s? This Italian day of feasting occurs during Lent and features several seafood courses, if not an entire spread (don’t forget the zeppole!) I figured now was as good a time as any to reveal what I believe to … Continued
The Hawks have been on a tear (with the exception of the last two nights), as they head into the home stretch, (hopefully) headed for the playoffs. With just 14 games left in the regular season (six of which are at home), demand for seats is high, which is why you might want to gather … Continued
Last year, I happened to be in New Orleans for Mardi Gras, and recall it was just a week after the Saints had won the Super Bowl; it was mid-February. This year, the festivities get going a little later, with Ash Wednesday falling on March 9, meaning Fat Tuesday occurs on March 8. Back-timing it … Continued
They remind us of those carefree backpacking trips through France, or, if you’re from the Midwest, perhaps a trip to The Magic Pan as a kid. Either way, crepes are making quite a comeback, and these five places all offer both sweet and savory renditions. Now all you need to do is pass the Nutella. … Continued
Now in its fourth year, Chicago Restaurant Week (Feb. 18 – 27) was originally created to help generate business at a typically slow time of year. This time around, more than 200 restaurants will be offering a 3-course prix-fixe meal for the same price — $22 for lunch, and $33/$44 for dinner. Beverages, tax, and tip not … Continued