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
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
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.
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
Turkey/stuffing/duck/stuffing/chicken = turducken I typically toss the freebies and swag into the garbage or put them out on my desk for co-workers to devour. But when the folks at Echelon Foods (a former Canadian company that has moved to Chicago) asked if they could send me an Original Turducken, I was intrigued. I had never … Continued
The far western suburbs have a few food and drink highlights, among them, Paul Virant’s Vie, Katy’s Dumplings and the massive Super H Mart in Naperville. But head out to Warrenville, and you’ll come across the headquarters of Two Brothers Brewery, one of the region’s craft brewing pioneers. This week’s pick is a red rye … Continued
Facing dilution? I spent a few hours over the weekend working on my entry for the 2014 James Beard Awards, which will be held in May. The deadline is right after the first of the year, and the nominations come out on March 18th. But a few years ago, the Foundation started releasing the semi-finalists, that … Continued
Mott Street will be there. Will you? Tasting Table is getting ready for what looks to be the first market of its kind in Chicago. The Tasting Table Open Market, a food bazaar and holiday shopping experience, takes place December 6 and 7 downtown. The two-day market will feature a handpicked group of more than 50 … Continued
Taking its show on the road (to Block 37) The artisanal, prepared-food market that’s already making a delicious splash at Logan Square’s Sunday market is heading downtown next week, albeit briefly. The NOSH at Block Thirty Seven will be a twist on the usual market, running every weekday for lunch, from 10:30 am to 2 pm, beginning December 3rd (starting at noon on this … Continued