I love a good ramen place, but recently, this city is being overcome by them. I feel like there is one every few blocks, it makes it hard to find one that stands out. So many places skimp out on the noodles and protein and it is just a bowl of salt. So when Fab Food Chicago invited me check out Jinya Ramen Bar at 553 W. Diversey Pkwy in Lakeview, I jumped at the chance to try a new place with hopes of it being great. Read more at CGL Food
Tag Archives: Dinner
Quest for the Best *Thin Pizza Only
There are a few things that can get me out of the house during winter hibernation or away from my summer Netflix and Chill; pizza,  wine and maybe a manicure. If I’m desperate enough.
There are so many good places in Chicago to eat a good slice, but I can’t stand deep dish. Except, maybe when I’m hungover. Or pregnant. One of those happens more than the other.  But really, I’m a thin crust kind of girl. I have narrowed it down to just three, but there are so many more options in the city. Read more at CGL Food
Your Non-Hipster Guide to Pilsen
If you know anything about the various neighborhoods in Chicago, you would know that Pilsen has always been a predominately Mexican neighborhood. Recently, Pilsen has been slowly gentrifying as hipsters and young families move into the area, the culture is still very present. Although the restaurant scene is thriving with places like Michelin rated Dusek’s and Honky Tonk BBQ, there are still plenty of authentic, Mexican taqueria’s and bakeries. My husband’s family still lives in the area, so we know some less touristy places that might not be as well-known. Plus, he has a discerning taste 
Read more on CGL Travels and City Adventures
Margaritas in May
If you know anything about me, I enjoy two kinds of drinks: a glass of Cabernet and a mezcal margarita with salt. 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, I have rounded up a few of my favorite marg’s around the city. Read more at CGL Food
Getting Fresh Retro at Rhyme and Reason
Between sports bars and brunch spots, it’s difficult to stand out on Division Street. But, Le’Qoinne Rice and Zafer Genc are doing it with Rhyme or Reason, 1938 W. Division. Their 70’s themed interior, menu from Chef Chris de la Cueva, and live entertainment, all help bring a fun, retro vibe to the Wicker Park area.
Plush rugs, velvet couches and mirrors sets the mood for the 70’s eatery with shareable food and innovative cocktails. The mural around the base of the bar is by Jas Petersen, a Chicago visual artist and painter, which surrounds the circular bar. With an open kitchen, large windows, and an outdoor patio with seating up to 75 people, this is a perfect spot to spend the warm summer months ahead.
The Tuesday through Friday dinner menu has a touch of comfort food like fried oysters, lamb meatballs, wings, burgers and poutine, while the weekend brunch has some of my favorites.
On the brunch menu is a delicious edamame toast, an upgrade from avocado toast. For those who enjoy a little heat, the fried chicken and donuts topped with fresno chili is the perfect choice. Their Bloody Mary comes with a slice of house smoked bacon and mini grilled cheese sandwich. It’s like a meal before the meal or a side for your drinks of choice.
The $1 oysters as well as the bottomless mimosas for $18.95 with orange, hibiscus and grapefruit juices are more reasons for Rice’s and Genc’s Rhyme or Reason to be one of your favorite brunch spots too.
During happy hour from 4pm to 6pm, Tuesday through Friday, $5 dollars gets you bites like lamb sliders, fried oysters and the West Town pizzette. Wash it all down with Prosecco on tap and a glass of Retro Fruit Punch.
Tuesdays are special community giveback to Chicago Public Schools. CPS receives a donation of 15% off all sales.
Rhyme or Reason’s music scene is live Friday and Saturday and ranges from local funk to soul and disco. During the week, the vinyl only DJ booth is coolest and brings a unique quality to the venue.
Le’Qoinne Rice and Zafer Genc opened the business in February 2016 and have been friends for years. Rhyme or Reason reflects their relationship, coming from opposite backgrounds, but managed to develop a relationship and now business.
Whether you stop by for food, drink or music, you’ll find there is both rhyme and reason.
A Stroll down Southport Corridor (adults only)
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-Â 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. This swanky spot has a great wine list, but an even better cocktail menu. The blood orange is not only pretty, its delicious and perfect way to start your meal. As for food, my absolute favorite is the goat cheese with beets appetizer. I usually never order beets, but you CANNOT miss this dish.
Coda di Volpe
Next, pizza! The Funghi and Diavolo pizza is delicious, but really, they all look fantastic. All the pastas are made in-house and the chef curates all the meat for charcuterie boards. The decor is contemporary and cool with a trendy crowd. It’s perfect for date night or a night out with the ladies. No need to head downtown anymore! Coda Di VolpeÂ
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 oversized lanterns, fireplace and couches, make for THE perfect date night spot.
Ella Elli
The wine list is extensive, but Pinot Noir Rose by Willamette Valley really added greatness to my experience. The cheese board and toasts was presented beautifully and paired well with the wine. 
Ella Elli is a great place to start or even end your night at with their variety of desserts. Who needs the the Four Seasons, when Ella Elli has hit Southport.
With so many options now on Southport, there is really something for everyone. Go check them out and let me know what you think!
Until next time..
~xoxo~
Christine
