Tag Archives: Chicago

Big Announcement!

Posted in blogger, Chicago, Lifestyle by

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I am excited to share with you guys that I will be a contributor to the Chicago Scene Magazine! It’s something I never really thought I would be doing, but I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I remember in college, I would always pick up a CS magazine in the lobby of my building and look to see who was featured that month. Fast forward ten years later, I get to make the magic happen.

They have taken a break from printing, but are now re-branding with the website launching next month and the magazine soon after. They have continued to have their events like New Years Eve at the Drake or the largest boat party on Lake Michigan, but now they will be diving deeper into Chicago neighborhoods and covering the best of the best.

I can’t wait to share some really great content with you!

I’d also like to say how thankful I am for all of you even reading this right now. In a day in age where time is limited, I appreciate the support and the few minutes you have to share with me. So THANK YOU!

Until next time,

Christine

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A Stroll down Southport Corridor (adults only)

Posted in blogger, Chicago, City, Date, Datenight, Dinner, food blogger, Lifestyle, Restaurant, Wine by

The Southport Corridor may be known for strollers, moms and boutiques, but recently, there has been a surge in places for adults to play. So ditch those strollers, grab a glass of wine, and take a peek into some adult friendly places popping up on the Southport Corridor.

Coda Di Volpe-Ā  Boasting Southern Italian fare like pizza, steak and seafood, they are most known for their Neapolitan pizza that comes with a side scissors to cut your own slices. Chef Thompson brings his own flair with a seasonal menu, house-cured meats, along with a contemporary vibe that all creates a great spot on Southport.

Coda has a great wine list (award winning in fact) and a creative cocktail menu.Ā  As for starters, my absolute favorite appetizer is the goat cheese with beets appetizer (I am not sure this is on the menu anymore, sigh…) and the pork & prosciutto Meatballs.

Howā€™s your Friday night looking? #chicago #tailofthefox

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Goat Cheese and Beets Appetizer

Next, pizza! The Funghi and Diavolo pizza are both delicious, but really, they all look fantastic.Ā  Thompson crafts traditional VPN-certified Neapolitan pizzas served with authentic pizza shears that adds an element of fun to the dining experience.

Next up, pasta. All the pastas are made in-house and available gluten free upon request. A stand out dish is theĀ Trombette Trapanese made with Coda’sĀ fennel sausage, tomato, almond, garlic, and basil. It’s also just beautiful to look at.

They are also now serve brunch on the weekend. Itā€™s perfect for date night or a night out with the ladies.

Ella Elli- The newest addition to the 4 star restaurant group, is the wine bar, Ella Elli. This sexy, romantic spot is so swanky, I felt like I had been transported downtown to a fancy hotel in River North. The over sized lanterns, fireplace and couches, make for THE perfect date night spot.

We love Fridays! Stop in for a drink at the bar before we fill up! šŸ“ø: @nadia.ryan

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Ā The wine list is extensive, but Pinot Noir Rose by Willamette Valley really paired nicely with our cheese board.Ā  We also tried the creamy mushroom toast with creme faiche and thyme, this would make me come back. Everything isĀ presented beautifully and our server paired everything really well with our wine.

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Ella Elli

They have pizza great for sharing, pasta and burgers. The burger is supposed to be outstanding, as well as their brunch menuĀ  When I visited, we shared the charcuterieĀ  and toasts, which really can be a meal in itself. Next time, the burger is on my list.

@Eater_Chicago named our pizzas as some of the hottest in Chicago!! Have you tried them yet?

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If you need a date night, Ella Elli should absolutely be on your list.

Tied House– Just opening in February 2018, this is brand new on Southport. The reviews are rolling in and everything aboutĀ Tied HouseĀ has been outstanding.

Schubas TavernĀ has been around for three decades, and now there is a new additionĀ  with the opening of Tied House,Ā the ownersā€™ new restaurant next door. The modern architecture and the courtyard that separates the restaurant from Schubas with a giant outdoor fireplace just dazzles from the inside and out.

Schubas will continue to have the same menu, Tied House’s chef, Debbie Gold (who happens to beĀ  James Beard Award-winning chef) to create her own menu, including short rib, crudo, porridge with beets and house made ice cream.

Tied House will be perfect for pre and post concerts and is a great addition to the area looking for more “adult” friendly dining.

With so many options now on Southport, there is really something for everyone.

Until next time.

Christine

 

National Margarita Day (but that could be any day really…)

Posted in blogger, Chicago, drinks, food blogger, Lifestyle, margaritas by

Turquoise Margarita Day Trivia Facebook Post

If you know anything about me, I enjoy two kinds of drinks: a glass of Cabernet and a margarita with salt.Ā  But margaritas can be overly sweet, watered down, or just really, really bad. Whether it is Cinco de Mayo or a warm day in Chicago, a margarita is the perfect cocktail to sip on. To help you get your buzz on,Ā  I have rounded up a few of my favorite marg’s around the city.

Big Star– This might be the most obvious choice, but their margaritas are really tasty. Either by the pitcher or glass, I prefer the Big Star mezcal rather than the Classic. The classic is made with blanco tequila, which doesn’t give the smoky taste I prefer like the Big Star. They have an amazing patio and it’s perfect for the warmer ChicagoĀ months, and of course, let’s not forget their tacos.

Masa Azul– This Logan Square Mexican and cocktail bar is a little gem that might have the best margaritas in the city. Seriously. Their margaritas are that good. With almost 20 cocktail options to choose from, all ranging from $6- $12 dollars, lots of tacos (lots of vegetarian options), this is my top 5 favorite Mexican places in Chicago. This is a bold statement, considering myĀ husband’s discerning taste. With such a variety of options, there might be a margarita for everyone.

#nationalmargaritaday

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The two margaritas I recommend are the Prickly Pear and Where there is smoke. This has mezcal joven with a Serrano Chile. Smoky with a little spice.Ā  Pair it with their guacamole = perfect meal.

Crio Bar and Restaurant– Located in West Lincoln park on Clybourn Avenue, this Latin American gastropub has some really flavorful margaritas, great empanadas and drink specials throughout the week. On Tuesdays, Margaritas are only $6 dollars.

New Guava Margarita šŸ™ŒšŸ½ it's so refreshing, already had 10 šŸ˜œ

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$6 margaritas for Lunch and Dinner šŸ˜œ #happytuesday #tacotuesday

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I have two go-to drinks here. First, the hibiscus marg is a delicious combination of sweet and spicy.Ā  Second, they have a version of a Moscow mule, made with mezcal, which is really good.Ā Plus, for all you instagrammers, the mural and flower wall make a great photo opportunity.

Del Toro– Located in Pilsen, this little gem is always packed and always worth the wait. The tacos are delicious, but the margaritas is make me coming back. My favorite is theĀ  jalapenoĀ margarita.Ā  It literally comes with a flaming jalapeno which is not only entertaining, it makes for fun experience. It was also delicious – which is a double plus.

These are just a few places, but Chicago is full of so many amazing places to grab a margarita. I’d love to hear your go-to places!

Until next time…

~xoxo~

Christine

Bring Your Own Date and Booze: My Favorite BYO Spots in the City

Posted in blogger, BYOB, Chicago, Chicago Restaurant, City, Date, Datenight, Dinner, food blogger, Lifestyle, Restaurant by

Gold Fancy National Wine Day Social Media Graphic

BYO (bring your own booze, beer or wine) is one of those great restaurant qualities thatĀ  many look for when dining out. It’s cheaper (usually), much more casual and a great place to dine with groups.Ā Chicago has an abundance of BYO options ranging from casual to upscale dining, so I have rounded up a list of my favorite spots throughout the city.

Sushi Mon – Located in Lincoln Park, this BYO sushi restaurant has a wide variety of sushi rolls, sushi bowls, pressed sushi and an impressive list of veggie rolls. My personal favorites are the Godzilla, V6 and Sparking rolls (see all three below). They recently expanded from one tiny room to now a much bigger space. The service is friendly, prices are great and no corkage fee. Go check it out and tell them I sent you šŸ™‚

Sushi mon is a BYOB in lincoln park

Various Rolls at Sushi Mon

Sushi Mon:Ā 2441 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

90 Miles Cuban Cafe– My family has been coming to 90 Miles for years now for their traditional Cuban cuisine. We have celebrated graduations, anniversaries and birthdays here. It is huge, has an outdoor seating and the decor all make for a fun dining atmosphere. The empanadas and ropa vieja are not to be missed, some of the best I have ever had (sorry mother-in-law!)

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Photo by Lindsey Howald Patton

The service is top-notch, especially since thereĀ are many large groups at time. They take reservations and it is definitely recommended. In addition to being BYOB, they have a sangria and mojito mix, so bring wine or rum they will make you a cocktail. There are a few locations in the city. To find out more information, clickĀ here.

1.Ā 3333 W Touhy Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712

2. 3101 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

3. 2540 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Home Bistro Chicago– The first time I dined at the cozy and quaint Home Bistro, was on a date (with my now husband years ago) when we first started dating. Located in Lakeview, with a constant changing New American menu, along with no corkage fee, this is the ideal date night spot.Ā  They have an option for a prix fix on Wednesdays andĀ Sunday brunch. For parties of 7 of more, they have a family style prix fixed menu at $45/person. They take reservations and are highly recommended.

Photo from Home Bistro

Home Bistro Chicago:Ā 3404 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

Caro Miro- For our very first Valentine’s Day (7 years ago…), we came to the Italian BYO Caro Miro and have gone several times since. Located in Ravenswood, this cozy, neighborhood spot has homemade pastas with huge portions, big enough to share. The pesto filled gnocchi is the best and chicken parmesan is also another favorite. There is not a corkage fee, but if you plan on sharing entrees, there is a $4 sharing fee. They recently expanded their dining room and take parties to up to 80 people now. Reservations are taken for parties of 4 or more. Bring your appetite and a bottle or two for some delicious Italian food.

Gnocchi Gratinati @ Caro Mio Italian Restaurant

Photo from Food Spotting.com

Caro Miro:Ā 1833 W Wilson Ave, Chicago, IL 60640

Semiramis- This LebaneseĀ restaurant is intimate, welcoming and the food is fantastic. I love the mixed grilled platter, falafel, and hummus are delicious. There is plenty of street parking, but it is located right off the Kedzie Brown Line stop. There is a corkage fee and don’t take reservations, but so worth the wait. Promise.

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Photo from @TammyGreen

Semiramis: 639 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

There are plenty of BYO restaurants to choose from in Chicago and a little something for everyone. Now get those appetites and bottles poppin’. šŸ™‚

Until next time…

Christine

7 Last Minute Family Friendly Holiday Activities

Posted in Chicago, family friendly, Holiday, Lifestyle, Tourist by

The holidays are pretty much here. The season goes by so fast with parties, events, shopping, etc. It’s hard to experience it together as a family. But it’s not too late to get out there and enjoy some festive activities throughout the city as a family. I rounded out some events that are still happening and some of our own personal favs. Enjoy!

1.Ā Nutcracker– The Joffrey Ballet is running Nutcracker from now until December 30th. Tickets run from $35 to $100 dollars. You can also find them on Stub HubĀ here.

2. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker- Holiday Lights Tour-Ā Experience the magic of the holidays with Chicagoā€™s most spectacular light displays at the cityā€™s most popular destinations.

holiday lights tour on Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Tour. Makes a great holiday gift for Chicago Families

Photo Courtesy Chicago Trolley

This tour is great for even Chicagoans that want to enjoy the holiday lights as a family out of the cold. As a bonus, A FREE holiday cupcake from Sprinkles is given to all riders. Tours are running now until December 23rd, 2017. Adult tickets are $29 dollars and Kidā€™s tickets are $18 dollars (ages 5-15). Reservations are highly recommended due to the popularity of the tour. You can make reservationsĀ here.

3.Ā Holiday Market- Randolph Street Market– The market is a unique shopping experience for the whole family. There are unique gifts from thrifty to extravaganza. It is December 16-17 from 10am-5pm. This is an indoor market with free parking onsite. They have a $30 dollar family package that includes 2 adults/drinks (wine, beer, champagne) and up to 4 kids plus a kids snack (online special only) You would definitely find a gift for even the pickiest shopper on your list.

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Photo Courtesy Randolph Street Market

4.Ā Caroling at the Cloud Gate-Ā  Get ready to singĀ some holiday classics during Caroling at Cloud Gate. This festive series is part concert, part sing-along atĀ Cloud Gate, aka “The Bean” on Fridays, through December 15 from 6-7pm. Weather permitting.

5.Ā White Christmas at Music Box Theater– In its 34th year, this annual tradition brings the family together at the Music Box theater to see Santa Claus, sing along and watch a holiday classic. Santa welcomes the audience and, accompanied by Music Box organist Dennis Scott, leads them in the sing along to the most cherished Christmas carols. The lyrics are projected onto the theaterā€™s screen so no one misses a chance to sing their hearts out. Then, the audience gets to enjoy a Christmas movie classic.

6.Ā Christkindlmarket- Park at Wrigley –Ā We have enjoyed many family friendly activities at the Park at Wrigley since it opened this year like movies, Green City Market, and live music for children. But now it is turned into a winter wonderland perfect for any age. I found this to be a little easier to navigate with little ones compared to the Daley Plaza Market, especially if you have a stroller or with several children. Ā There is ice skating and rentals are available, lots of food options and unique shopping. Santa does make an appearance on Saturdays (and it is inside!) It runs now until December 31st, with ice skating until February 2018.

Sweet treats at the Park at Wrigley. Makes a great activity to do with the family

Photo Courtesy of Alex @sassyconfetti

7.Ā Santa Suite at Swissotel–Ā  One of the best things we did as a family this holiday season was our first Santa visit at the Swissotel. On the 41st floor, in a 5 room Presidential Suite, it is completely transformed into a winter wonderland experience. The space is decorated with twelve Christmas trees, a table set for Santa, and even a station to write letters to the North Pole.

Santa Suite at the Swissotel is a great way to spend the holidays with the family

Writing Letters to the North Pole

They also have different pop up shops, including floral crowns fromĀ Crowning Event.

Christine

The Gift Guide for Every CHICAGO FOODIE on Your List

Posted in Chicago, foodie, gift, gift guide, Holiday, Lifestyle by

Copy of Red Illustrated Gift Guides Blog Graphic

holiday gift guide, chicago brand, social sparking wine. gift, wine, holidays1.Ā Social Sparking Wine– This sparkling sake is a local Chicago company andĀ makes the perfect gift for all your holiday parties. Especially for any foodie hostess. Buy a case, stick a bow on it, and your gift is done! You can get 15% off using the code socialchristine when you purchase them onlineĀ here.Ā If you stock up for the season and spend $49 dollars, shipping is free!

2. State of Illinois cutting board B00FDN70CUmakes a cute gift to either use in the kitchen or for display. They are usually really expensive, but I found this one onĀ Amazon Prime for $15.99. You can find itĀ here.

3.Ā Chicago Pizza Tours– If your foodie friend likes to get out and explore, Chicago Pizza Tours is great way to experience the city and the best pizza around town. They offer different types of tours great even for your out of town guests. Use the codeĀ holiday2017 and you get 15% off any ticket or evenĀ giftĀ certificates (theĀ giftĀ certificate still has the same full value) BookĀ here.

4.B0153GD6ECĀ  This Chicago flag apron makes a great gift for men and women that love two things: Chicago and food. Available on Amazon Prime for $28.99. You can find itĀ here.

5.Ā Ā Bumble and Bustle-Ā Ā Who doesn’t love a cute coffee mug right? These mugs make the perfect gift (I own two!) and there are a lots of options to choose from. Best part is the owner is right here in Chicago. You can get 10% off using the discount code GOODLIFE10.

Holiday gift guide, Chicago mugs from a local chicago company

6.Ā Old Town Olive Oil – Did you know most olive oils in stores are actually filled with canola oil? I learned that a few months ago after a visit to old town olive oil make a great gift, local chicago company, gift guideOld Town Oil.Ā Ā You can sample lots of differentĀ kinds (my favorite is Tuscan Herb) and they bottle it right in front of you. They have sampler boxes with 2-4 bottles that make the perfect gift for every foodie and chef in your life.

7.Ā Chicago Food Planet–Ā  Offering various tours around the city, taste the diverse food and drink of Chicago as a neighborhood food expert offers a local’s perspective of the city. It’s really quite an experience to eat and drink at the best places around the city. From now until the end of the year, you can book a private group tour for 15% discount. A great options for family and friends outings of 8+ people looking for a privateĀ foodĀ & beverage experience.Ā  Private tours can be booked directly at 312-932-932 ext. 5.

8. For any Chicago pizza lover, this shirt is perfect. And who doesn’t love pizza? Available Chicago pizza lover shirt for women, chicago pizza, gift guideon Amazon Prime for $11.50. You can find itĀ here.

9.Ā Chicago Wine Candle–Ā  This local candle company hasĀ beenĀ working up with local bars and cafes around the Chicago land area to receive used wine bottles. They have unique scents likeCocktails champagne, bourbon (personal favorite), sangria and wine. They also started candle making classes. You can find more informationĀ here.

10. Saving the best for last. Every true Chicagoan knows how we eat our hot dogs. You can find it
here.
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5 things to take your Turkey Day to the next level

Posted in appetizer, blogger, Chicago, City, Dinner, Easy Meals, easy recipe, family, family friendly, Family meal, Food, food blogger, foodie, Holiday, Lifestyle, mom, recipe, Recipe Review, toddler, Tourist, travel, Wine, wineries by

With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, there are a lot of things we need to do. Whether it is cooking, creating the right place setting or finding the perfect hostess gift, Thanksgiving can be overwhelming. I have rounded out some great recipes and fun gift ideas to make your Turkey Day a little more enjoyable with your family and friends.

Beet Bruschetta with Lavender- Vanilla Honey Drizzle

IMG_0156 (1)I don’t know what says more than Thanksgiving than beets. It’s like a must right? So why not take those beets and turn them into something fun that everyone would like?! This recipe is from the Ryanne, the blogger atĀ Pineappple Expression.Ā Her stuff is always amazing and under 40 minutes, it is sure to be a serious crowd pleaser.

Prep and Assembly time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes Prep
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:Ā 

  • 1 French baguette loaf of bread
  • 1 (5.02 oz) small package of Boursin Cheese (garlic and herbs flavor is best)
  • 1 medium sized red beet
  • 1 package of fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh lavender
  • 1/2 of a vanilla bean
  • 2 tablespoons of honey
  • 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
  • kosher salt

Directions:

  1. First, preheat the oven to 375F. Ā Peel and slice the beet into 1/4 slices. Ā Place the slices on a roasting pan and toss with a light drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper and a few sprigs of thyme. Ā Roast the beets for 30 minutes, but flip after 15 for a more even cook. Ā When the beets are done, pull from the oven and let them cool.
  2. While the beets cool, slice the bread as you would for bruschetta. Ā Coat lightly with olive oil and place in the oven under the broiler for a maximum of 5 minutes. Ā The slices should still be soft, but have a nice golden color to the tops.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the honey, lavender and vanilla bean (scrape the insides out to produce the black flecks) along with the apple cider vinegar. Ā  I love this combo!!
  4. After the beets have cooled, chop into cubes as evenly as you can. Ā 1/4 inch on each side. Ā First cut into strips, then rotate the knife as you move through.
  5. To assemble the toasts, use a butter knife to spread a layer of Boursin cheese onto each slice of bread. Ā  Next, crumble on a small mountain of the roasted beets. Ā Using a spoon, drizzle a little bit of the honey mixture over the tops of each toast. Ā Sprinkle with some coarse kosher salt or flaky sea salt on top. Ā  For more pizzazz, use the sprigs of thyme to garnish the plate.
  6. Enjoy!

Thanksgiving Wine Bottle Labels

Whether you are bringing wine or serving it, these ThanksgivingĀ themed labels would get a good laugh from all your guests at the table. A set of 4 is $8.89 and available on Prime. Perfect for all wine lovers.Ā Find them here.

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Skinny Pumpkin Bars

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Whether a pre-dinner snack or a dessert, these pumpkin bars are delicious.Ā  They are not overly pumpkin and the chocolate chips are a great addition. My son devoured three in one day (he’s 20 months) and I am not going to even tell you how many I ate…..

Prep time: 25 mins
Cook time: 25 mins
Total time: 50 mins
Serves:Ā 24
Ingredients
  • 3 1/3 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter, softened (I tried margarine. It doesnā€™t taste the same)
  • 2 eggs and 4 egg whites
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 (15oz) can All Natural mashed pumpkin (I like Trader Joes and Aldi)
  • Ā¾ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Ā Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
  2. Coat a cookie sheet with cooking spray; set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl whisk together flour, spices, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt; set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl cream butter and sugars; mix until creamy.
  5. Add eggs one at a time; beating and scraping bowl with each addition.
  6. Add egg whites; mix until fluffy.
  7. Add applesauce and pumpkin; mix until all blended together
  8. Add dry ingredients all at once and mix until thick consistency.
  9. Add in mini chocolate chips.
  10. Evenly spread into prepared cookie sheet.
  11. Bake 23-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
  12. Cool and enjoyĀ šŸ™‚

Thanksgiving T-shirt- Turkey, Wine and Feeling Fine

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Ok, I know this technically doesn’t go on the table, but how cute is this t-shirt? And prettyĀ accurate right? Thanksgiving is about turkey, wine and RELAXING. It is available for men and women.

It is $17.99 and available on Prime. You can find itĀ here.

Thanksgiving Party Boxes

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I really like these party boxes for either your adult guests or a nice addition to your kids table. It can be filled with candy from a candy bar, leftovers or desserts to go, it is a cute way for your guests to leave with something special from the day.Ā  For a set of 12, it is $11.04 and available on Prime. You can find themĀ here.

However you are celebrating, I hope you have a blessed day with friends and family, because in the end, that’s all that matters.

Until next time,

Christine

Ā Recap: Taste Talks

Posted in appetizer, blogger, Chicago, Chicago Restaurant, City, Dinner, Food, food blogger, foodie, Lifestyle, Recipe Review, Restaurant, Tourist, Wine by

Taste Talks is a 3 day national series filled with seminars, tastings, dinners and parties. It is an intimate way to bring amazing chefs, restaurants and influencers together to engage in conversations through Q & A, demos and sampling. I was fortunate enough to attend the conference on Saturday and the cookout the following day. More about this eventĀ on Chicago Taste Talks.Ā Ā Read more atĀ Travel & City Adventures

Chicago Gourmet Recap: 5 products I discovered

Posted in blogger, Chicago, Chicago Restaurant, City, Dinner, Food, food blogger, foodie, Restaurant, Sunday Funday, Tourist, travel, Wine, wineries by

Chicago Gourmet is one of those events I had been wanting to attend for a long time. I finally had the opportunity and was thrilled to be among the best chefs, restaurants and brands in the world. Lucky for me, it was extra special because Chicago Gourmet was celebrating their 10th anniversary.

The week long event is thrown by the Illinois Restaurant Association along with the title sponsor Bon Appetit magazine every year in Millennium Park. It brings together renowned chefs, restaurants and wine and spirits. There are tastings, book signings, cooking demos, and wine and cocktail seminars throughout the event. It is truly a “foodie” experience.

This was my first year attending and it will not be my last. I sampled everything from Thai food, types of honey, wine, sliders, charcuterie, truffle mac & cheese and so on. I left discovering so many products I fell in love with. Even a few from brands I have never heard of. Read more atĀ Restaurants & Recipes

Old is New Again: The Berghoff

Posted in appetizer, blogger, Chicago, Chicago Restaurant, City, Datenight, Dinner, family, family friendly, Food, food blogger, foodie, Lifestyle, Photography, Restaurant, Tourist, travel, Wine by

My parents grew up going toĀ The BerghoffĀ in downtown Chicago. Most Chicagoanā€™s probably have. I used to go as a kid, but the last time I was there, I was in high school. In fact, I thought for the longest time it was closed. Recently, I had the opportunity to dine and tour the restaurant and was so impressed. Not only because of the history, but the revival of the menu. Ā The Berghoff is known for their German food like Weiner Schnitzelā€™s, bratwursts and giant Bavarian pretzels. Of course, those dishes are legendary, but there are new additions to the menu that are more modern and appealing to a younger generation. More contemporary dishes that even include certified gluten-free options. But first, let me tell you about the history and how it all began.Ā 

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The Berghoff has been around since 1898, and is rich in Chicago history. Ā Herman Berghoff posted right outside the Chicagoā€™s World Fair in 1893, similar to a pop-up cafe. His success from that, is how he made enough money to bring his family to Chicago and open his cafe. Ā 

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End of Prohibition- 1935 (Photo Courtesy of The Berghoff)

During the prohibition, the bar remained opened by selling a ā€œNear Beerā€ which contained less than 0.5% alcohol. This made it possible for Herman to sell and stay open. After prohibition ended, The Berghoff was issued Chicagoā€™s first Liquor License. Chicago has honored this every year and they will always receive the first license.

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The Berghoff had a separate menā€™s only bar until 1969, when Gloria Steinem demanded service and this ended the male-only streak.

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Now for the food. We sampled a lot of everything, some classic dishes and contemporary ones. I also had the opportunity to meet Chef Matt and Chef Javier. Their love for not only the food, but their passion for working at the restaurant shined through. They have been at the restaurant for years and are dedicated to making great food. Chef Matt went into detail on how everything is made in house.Ā With a bakery and 4 kitchens in the 50,000 square feet space, everything is made on site. That is something unique and many Chicago restaurants canā€™t claim.Ā To take a closer look at the behind the scenes in the bakery, lookĀ here.

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With all that being said, my top 3 dishes are:

3. Red Velvet Cake- I am not usually one for dessert or sweets in general, but this red velvet cake is fluffy with the right amount of sweetness. Served with a side of vanilla ice cream, this dessert will make anyone go out of their way to dine here.

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2. Braised Short Ribs- This is fantastic. Melts in your mouth good. Served with a side of mashed potatoes and topped with fried onions. The textures are just right. Perfect comfort food during the cooler months.

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1.Butternut Squash Lasagna- Layered with diced butternut squash and Manchego, then topped with grilled asparagus and glazed walnuts, it is outstanding. The combination of the sweetness from the squash with the cheese is perfect. It is light enough to eat year-round and vegetarians should go crazy over it. Definitely a stand out dish.

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The Berghoff is also known forĀ Oktoberfest. This runs from September 7th- October 7th. With live music and food specials, it will put you in the mood for the fall festivities ahead.

Whether you are from Chicago or here to visit, The Berghoff is a must stop for great food and some Chicago history.

Until next timeā€¦

Christine