Every now and then, some swag will come across my desk, and most of the time it’s pure crap: boxed mashed potatoes, neon-colored kids’ drinks, “time saving” devices for home cooks, etc. But two weeks ago, a box from foodzie.com arrived, and when I got it home, I was pleasantly surprised with its contents.
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
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
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
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
Van Berg & DeWulf has been to Belgian beer what Mario Batali has been for all things Italian. Tirelessly promoting the beer – long before it became fashionable – the importer is preparing for a massive, nationwide party this Tuesday, November 15th, in honor of its 30th anniversary. Not surprisingly, The Publican is serving … Continued
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
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
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
Sang Yoon initially wanted to be a professional hockey player – he was a goalie at Boston University – but he also wanted to be a cook. He’s worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens in Europe, as well as venerable ones in the U.S., like Michael’s in Santa Monica. But for the … Continued
Like soup and bread, whenever pie and charity cross paths, it’s always a good thing. This holiday season, whenever you order a pie from Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab, Joe’s has pledged to donate a dollar from every sale to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Whole pies cost $29.95, by the way. After the … Continued