CenterstageChicago.com Presents: Food

New Restaurants

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:00:00 CST

FDM's sauteed squid tastes as good as it looks.

Stuck in a rut when it comes to eating out? Good thing the Chicago restaurant scene gets an injection of new life almost every week. Whether you want to know where to go tonight or what opening to mark on your calendar, our guide to fresh feasting spots has all the details you crave.

Visit a new restaurant lately? Tell us what you think. Want to wash it all down? Check out our list of brand-new bars.

Ready to Digest

Who doesn't love breakfast at Yolk?
Start your day off right at this River North outpost of the popular South Loop breakfast spot.

Browntrout rules the waters on the North Side
You expect two things from a restaurant named Browntrout: fish and lack of pretense. Indeed, that's just what you get at this North Center eatery. The menu features a line-caught Canadian walleye-pike and Wisconsin golden trout, among others.

Nightwood always keeps you guessing (in a good way)
The sibling to Logan Square's popular Lula Cafe opens in Pilsen. If the lack of a fixed menu makes you nervous, count on staple chicken dishes and fresh baked cookies. Plus, the 120-bottle wine list that includes mostly biodynamic and small-batch selections guarantees an enjoyable meal.

Fritz Pastry keeps it sweet and simple
There may not be anything flashy or eye-catching about this Lakeview bakery, but that also means it's a quiet, unassuming cafe, where the ills of the city can't disturb you. Also, there are cheap pastries - nothing wrong with that.

Tutto Fresco: No flash, just good food
If you're tired of eating Italian comfort food in a setting that just ain't comfortable, Lakeview's casual trattoria may be just what you want. Highlights of the decor include burgundy tablecloths and fresh flowers. But aside from these simple touches, the main emphasis is on the food.

Can't cook? Zebda's got you covered
This Mediterranean restaurant on the Northwest Side focuses on flatbreads and couscous dishes, as well as take-out and catering options.

Have a toast to Salute Wine Bar
Not to stereotype, but if there's one thing Italians know, it's food and wine (okay, so that's two things). Salute capitalizes on this fact, pairing an array of piatti piccoli, insalate, panini and dolce with more than 50 wines representing all 20 of Italy's regions.

Birchwood Kitchen is where the heart is
Home-made is the name of the game at this Wicker Park cafe, including in-house roasted meats.

Soak up the past at Ristorante Al Teatro
Pilsen's newest upscale restaurant, in the beautiful and historic Thalia Hall, features a number of different pizza concoctions, as well as a gelato bar for dessert.

Frida's honors all things Kahlo
The menu at Frida's (named after Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and a sibling to Andersonville's La Cocina de Frida) is still being tinkered with, but the menu offers simple, decent, slightly overpriced Mexican food such as tamales and enchiladas.

Take pride in your town at Chicago's Dog House
Even if it's just hot dogs, they're some of the best around. Try the "Mayor Daley," topped with Irish cheddar and caramelized onions. Or the "Snoop Dog," complete with homemade chili, onion and Colby cheese. Meals go for $4.99-$8.50 and include a dog, fries and a drink.

Kin Sushi and Thai Cuisine is the best of both worlds
Foodies who love mixing their sushi and Thai food ordering options will go crazy for this laid-back, dual-cuisine dining joint in West Town.

Drop on in to State and Lake
State and Lake may not have the jaw-dropping views that the Wit Hotel's 27th floor Roof lounge offers, or the ultra-modern living room-style seating. However, because it's usually far less crowded, chances are you'll be able to get a seat - and that's reason enough to stop by for a stiff drink.

The original Buona makes a triumphant return
In the ongoing debate as to where to find the best Italian beef in Chicago, there's a select group of suburbanites who'll insist you have to venture outside of the city limits - they've pledged their allegiance to this Berwyn staple. As the sleek renovation of this location will attest, the design of the Buona storefronts have evolved with the times, but the beef, thankfully, has remained the same.

Wally & Agador's Gourmet Cafe not just for the dogs
Get fresh sandwiches and pastries in this new Boystown cafe, which also caters much of the menu from Winnetka's Restaurant Michael and is named after the owner's favorite pets.

FDM: Even better than the original
Luis Montero and Angel Hernandez ? who brought the city decidedly non Tex-Mex, seafood-heavy fare with Logan Square's Fonda Del Mar open a new place to further their mission of transforming American conceptions about real deal Mexican. Mole verde (served on adobo-marinated pork chop) and creamy walnut-goat-cheese (covering grilled tilapia) are among the new sauces to go ga-ga over.

Art is on the menu at Terzo Piano
Location is everything for Terzo Piano, on the third floor of the new Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago. The fancy Italian lunch spot offers views of Michigan Avenue, the park and the Bluhm Sculpture Garden from its outdoor piazza. The food's not too bad, either.

Family first at La Fonda Del Gusto
Inspired by the cuisine of the Mexican state of Michoacan, Jose Palomino and his wife, Lisa Lee, have set out to provide Wicker Park with home cooked, comfortable and inexpensive meals.

Andersonville gets a little sweeter at George's
Occupying the space of former Sweet Occasions, George's pays homage to late Andersonville resident George Stotis. His kids preside as owners, whilst manager Jim Veikos adds a Greek touch (European-like decor and spanikopita) to the mix.

Hot Off the Grill

Hot Woks Cool Sushi (Loop)
The popular sushi spot opens a second location on Michigan Avenue.

Istanbul Restaurant
Turkish dishes rule the menu at this Lakeview BYOB, featuring traditional kebabs and gyros, plus fresh-baked Turkish breads.

Il Poggiolo
Fine Italian dining from Jerry Kleiner comes to Hinsdale.

Little Bucharest Bistro
Find Eastern European favorites in Albany Park.

Felony Franks
The motto of this hot-dog stand: "Food so good, it's criminal." If that doesn't say it all ... then there's this: the place will be staffed by ex-prisoners.

Fogo 2 Go
Get Brazilian pizza and other South American dishes at this casual BYOB Lincoln Park cafe.

Fianco
This intimate Italian restaurant (taking the place of the former Winston's Market on Southport) serves relatively affordable (mostly under 20 bucks) pasta dishes along with entrees like "chicken under a brick" and milk-braised pork. Pair it up with an equally affordable wine list.

Red Mango (Lakeview)
The second area location of popular fro-yo chain (the first is in Evanston) opens on Diversey. I Dream of Falafel
Build your own falafel in the Loop.

90 Miles Cuban Cafe (Logan Square)
Second outpost of the popular Cuban cafe opens in Logan Square.

Mod Pizza
Enjoy family friendly dining at this West Loop pizza place.

Branch 27
American bistro takes root on Chicago Avenue.

Falafill
Make your own falafels in this Boystown cafe.

Fuego Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar (Logan Square)
Satisfy your Mexican cravings at this offshoot of the Arlington Heights hot spot.

Johnny D's
West Loopers (and UIC students) get an inexpensive new pizza place.

Still Cooking

La Farine
Find pastries, baguettes and other sweet sensations at this West Town bakery, which opens in late June.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries
The popular burger chain opens two more Chicago locations, in Rogers Park (July 6) and another in Lincoln Park (July 20).

My Pie
Northbrook gets the reincarnation of the popular Lincoln Park pizzeria, which closed in June 2008. Expect it to open in summer.

Chicago's Home of Chicken and Waffles (West Loop)
The unique restaurant's second location is set to open in fall 2009.

Masada
The owners of Sultan's Market open this Logan Square Middle Eastern sit-down eatery sometime in 2009.

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You Are What You Eat

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:00:00 CST

Get produce from King's Hill Farm at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

If we truly are what we eat, then most of us should stop calling ourselves Chicagoans ? we're more like foreign exchange students, or Californians. That's what happens when the majority of food from our grocery store travels an average of 1,500 miles just to get there. Fortunately there's a local, farm-fresh alternative known as community-supported agriculture (CSA), where nothing (aside from plenty of organically-grown crops) stands between you and the farmer. Here's a look at Chicago's best in terms of cost, value and convenience.

Angelic Organics
Touted as one of the largest CSAs in the country, this Caledonia locale feeds more than 1,400 families on average. The farm grows its food in accordance with biodynamic principles, so you don't have to worry about any artificial chemicals lingering in your cucumber salad or your homemade apple pie. You also don't have to stress over hiking it out to Caledonia, as Angelic Organics offers more than 20 different drop-off spots in the Chicago area. Shareholders (that's you) receive a weekly bushel of fresh veggies and herbs. Expect plenty of tomatoes, potatoes, sprouts, cauliflower and squash. Half-bushels are also available for those living the single life, and you can bet boxes are filled to the brim, no matter which size you choose. Twelve-week shares (from mid-August to October) are still available for $410, with the option to extend through December for an extra $100.

King's Hill
This year-round CSA-focused farm may be located in Wisconsin, but you can still get the goods locally at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Much like Angelic Organics, members receive a full bushel, with the option of half-shares ($320 for 10 weeks). King's Hill is big on seasonal veggies like asparagus, spinach, summer squash, sweet corn, tomatoes, garlic, parsnips and rutabagas. Sign-ups for summer membership end on July 5, so get on it!

Broad Branch Farm
This popular CSA is booked for summer, but there are still a number of $50 fall subscriptions available for veggies, meat and eggs. A typical Broad Branch box contains six or seven items with the variety, as you might expect, depending on the time of the season. If you opt for the egg share, you'll get one dozen per week during the main season. Like most CSA shares, veggies are packed on the day of delivery and each box contains a weekly newsletter listing the latest farm happenings. And as a bonus, Broad Branch includes preparation ideas and recipes for your seasonal goods. The farm also offers a once-per-month meat share, in which all animals are raised on the farm with access to pasture, sunshine, clean water and certified organic feed. The cows here are 100 percent grass-fed and the hens are free to graze all day long until they return to shelter to roost for the night.

Triple A Farms
At $300 for the entire summer/fall season, we found Triple A Farms to provide one of the best bushels in terms of cost. The 12-week share breaks down to $25 per week (for a full bushel), which is just about right if the bulk of your diet consists of fresh fruits and veggies. If you can't justify spending that much on produce each week, or you're worried about wasting it, we suggest going in half with a friend ? though you and your mate may have a tough time divvying up those vibrant red tomatoes, spicy jalapenos and sweet cantaloupes. Other seasonal items include potatoes, green beans, sweet onions, zucchini, sweet corn and cucumbers. The goods can be picked up at the Logan Square and Andersonville farmer's markets, but if you got an extra 60 bucks to swing, you can opt for home delivery.

Cedar Valley Sustainable Farm
Dear vegetarians, we admire your healthful diets and we're secretly jealous of your will power. But this one's strictly for our carnivorous readers, because at Cedar Valley, it's all about the meat. A sample monthly share from the Ottawa farm includes stir-fry beef, hamburger, round steak, Italian sausage, pork chops, ham steak, pasture-raised chickens and farm fresh eggs. Cedar Valley offers pickup locations throughout the Chicago area, including Logan Square, Lincoln Square, Oak Park, Naperville, Beverly and Evanston. Prices range from $255 for three months to $975 for the whole year. Irv and Shelly's Fresh Picks
While not technically a CSA, Irv and Shelly's uses resources from multiple farms to provide year-round home delivery of fresh organic produce, meat and dairy products.

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Grilling 101

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:00:00 CST

"I am a company man to say the least," says Albert Gonzales, executive chef for Weber Grill's Chicago location, and it's true. After starting his career in hotel kitchens, Albert started with Weber in its Lombard location, opened the Schaumburg location, worked in Wheeling (now closed) and recently transferred downtown to man the monstrous grills at the Weber Grill flagship location at Ohio & State. "It's pretty much the only job I've ever had. I've just cooked."

That experience serves Gonzales well not only in his kitchen, but at barbecues throughout the summer ? and it can help you, too. Centerstage checked in with the grillmaster to find out how to get the most out of the season.

People probably assume that you're just called "Weber Grill" but you use a standard kitchen. I don't know if people realize that you're cooking on actual grills with burning charcoal back there.
We cook on authentic Weber charcoal kettles and that's probably what surprises people more than anything. Especially our [Chicago] location, we have a lot of tourists [and] a lot of out-of-towners, and obviously we have the red kettle hanging out front, which really brings people in the door. The look on peoples faces when they come in and see those grills...it's a look of amazement that we actually do use giant Weber kettles, very similar to our ranch kettles. These are stainless steel for restaurant purposes, but to date I think the thing that people are most surprised about is that we do use charcoal on our grills.

I've taken a quick look into your kitchen - your grills are absolutely huge. How much charcoal do you go through?
On a good weekend, I burn well over a ton of charcoal. We do have five of those giant charcoal grills, and also three gas grills that we use for our barbecue. But on a busy Saturday, I can use 1400 lbs. Of charcoal. It's quite a bit. When loaded up, each of those grills can be loaded pretty much to capacity with a bag and a half of charcoal. When you load that much charcoal in there, the internal temperature in there ranges from 1400-1800 degrees.

That sounds like it burns a lot hotter than an at-home grill. How do your kitchen kettles compare with home grills temperature-wise?
Typically, the standard kettles that most people use are 26 inches, ours are 38 - significantly larger in diameter. Even [in] those 26-inch kettles - charcoal just burns hot, that's what it knows how to do ? you can soar up to anywhere from 800 to 1000 degrees. But we get quite a bit more out of it because our grills are specially designed for restaurant use. What we've done is open up the bottom a little bit, to let a little bit more of that ash go through. Most people at home aren't cooking on their grill for 12-13 hours straight. It's usually [for] an hour or two then you shut it down. But since we are going for such an extended period of time, we actually designed our grill with a large opening in the bottom so we can keep dumping ash into our ash catchers. But because of that big opening, it also feeds in a lot more air than your average home kettles. And that air really allows those grills to get as hot as they get.

I wanted to ask you about the Pittsburgh steak that's on your menu, also known as a black & blue - do you sell a lot of those?
We get a fair amount of them, actually. The whole Pittsburgh thing came from back in the days of the Pittsburgh steel mills, the steel workers didn't get a long lunch break, but it was hard work. So what they would do is they'd actually bring a raw piece of meat to work with them, take a sheet of steel and put it over one of the heating cauldrons, and that piece of steel would get superhot - they'd take the steaks, throw it on there, and it would char and blacken the outside but it happened so fast that the inside would stay very rare. Because we do burn our charcoal at such a high temperature, we actually can accomplish that exact same effect really well, and I think you'd be surprised at the amount of people that really like that nice charred outside and the rare cool inside. We probably get the same amount of Pittsburghs as we do plain rare steaks.

I've always considered the "marked" steak a real macho thing - for the guy that says "knock the horns off and put it on the plate, give me something nice and bloody." I tend to assume that people who order the Pittsburgh don't know what they're getting into. Do you think that's true - and then are they surprised they enjoy it?
Oh, yeah. Like a lot of things, there's such a shock value to it, [as in] "I like it still mooing, just dead on the plate," absolutely. And I think people that like their steaks rare get into the Pittsburgh, since you do char it you develop a little bit more of the flavor. So not only do you get that cold rare steak, but you get that a little bit of that external flavor that you're looking for as well. But yeah, I believe the vast majority of the people who eat it like that order it the first time not sure what they're getting into, and then stumble on something that they actually like.

What are the three main steps, in your opinion, for a quality grill experience?
The first thing is: A clean grill. You gotta have a clean grill. You can do it before or after, and either one is fine - I 'm the kind of person that after I'm done grilling, I clean my grill the next time I use it. I like to get my charcoal stoked up nice and hot, make sure it's all covered in a grey ash already, and I keep the lid on - that's going to build up the heat and get all those bars nice and hot. Once those bars get nice and hot, it brushes off very nice and easy. You get rid of all that burnt carbon and you have a clean surface. The reason a clean grill is so important is that it's going to keep your food from sticking, and it's also going to help from imparting any kind of an off flavor. It's going to give you more true, authentic flavor to what you're actually cooking, as opposed to what you cooked last time interfering with it.

Second: If you're using charcoal - which we're big proponents of - no more lighter fluid. Get rid of the cans of lighter fluid. We use Kingsford Briquettes, lump charcoal works [as well], but what we do is we use a chimney starter. All it is is a metal tube with a handle and you can buy paraffin wax cubes that ignite the charcoal without imparting any kind of flavor. Any time you think about lighter fluid, everyone knows the smell of lighter fluid immediately. Well, smell and taste being so closely intertwined, any time something has that strong of a smell, it's going to have a lingering taste as well. Getting rid of that lighter fluid is what's going to preserve the purity of the food. You're not going to add any off flavors, you're just going to bring out the flavor of the food that you're cooking. No more lighter fluid.

My third and final one is: know the product you're cooking. If it's the first time you're going to be cooking something, maybe that's not the best time to be cooking that for a group of guests. Practice once or twice on something at home. For instance: if it's the first time you're cooking fish filets on the grill, give it a run before and realize that you might have to lightly oil the fish. Knowing your product, and knowing the steps that you're going to be going through, is really going to help eliminate a lot of the guesswork and a lot of frustration. In my eyes, the whole summer grilling experience is very social - it's having a good time and being around friends. The last thing you want to do is be frustrated with all the outside variables.

Is there one main thing that nearly everyone does wrong?
Absolutely. We do monthly cooking classes in our Schaumburg location, and one of the things we always try to let people know is "stop being grill-peekers." We use direct and indirect heat. We start it over the charcoal and get our nice marks, and then we pull it off the charcoal and finish it. And one of the things that I notice people do constantly is the second they get their protein or their vegetable on the grill, they want to get in there and turn it right away. A little bit of patience, you know? Let it spend a minute right on the direct heat so they get those sear marks, they get that nice cross pattern. Don't open the lid of the grill any more than you have to.

Every time you open the lid of the grill, you lose a good 60 degrees of heat immediately. That's how you get the chicken that's got the skin all shredded off - if you have a nice hot, clean grill, putting that chicken right on that hot grate will let it sear and come off the grill very nicely - but it is going to take time and a little bit of patience.

In your opinion, what is the perfect grill food?
Oh, that's a great question. If it's me, the perfect grill food is a nice bone-in ribeye, little bit of salt, little bit of pepper. That's all I need. Very simple, nice hot charcoal fire, a little bit of that flavor, and get a great steak on the grill.

When you're invited to barbecues, how long is it until someone inevitably asks you to take over on the grill?
[laughs] If I'm over at my mom's house, I've already learned to expect that any time it's a family function, I've resigned myself to the fact that I'm going to be doing most of the cooking. As far as friends go, they're all pretty good about it until somebody runs into a snag. But I can't remember the last time I was at a barbecue and I didn't somehow wind up rolling my sleeves up and getting involved. But you know, to say the least, I'm a very fortunate person in that I love what I do. Despite the fact that we work five days a week and we have long hours and we grill all day long - those two days off, if it's nice out I'm grilling. Without a doubt, it's a passion that carries over into my personal life as well.

Well, it really is a male dream job. I also think that a lot of guys believe that the grill is the only place a "guy" can cook.
Absolutely they do. There's a strict division for some reason - like "the women can have the kitchen, but me, I'm the one outside on the grill." A lot of times, what we do is we take that charcoal grill and with just a little bit of manipulation, we turn it into an oven. We do a breaded tilapia dish that we bake, for all intents and purposes, on our charcoal grill. And we never burn the breading, because it is the same principle. I think a lot of men would be surprised to learn that they can transfer a lot of what they know on the grill right over into the house.

Most of those "grill-only" guys probably don't realize that most of these high end steakhouses don't use grills; they use broilers and ovens.
There's a good number of places that will start off with on some sort of broiler or a grill to get those marks, but they'll finish it off right in the oven and that's a standard method of cooking. When I speak about direct and indirect, we keep all of our charcoal loaded in the back of the grill to mark our steaks - to get that nice char mark, to get that cross-pattern, to get that grilled look that everyone strives for. But after that, we pull them all off to the front of the grill and we shut that lid, which is great about the way the Weber grill is designed - once you shut that lid, and you have that heat in the back, that heat all rolls along the top and you basically create a giant convection oven inside your grill. For all intents and purposes we use our grills to "bake" our steaks.

I have to ask - working around all these big fiery grills all day, what's the worst burn you've ever had in the kitchen?
I've been pretty fortunate and I haven't had any bad ones. Typically, when people do burn themselves in the restaurant, it's actually not on the grill. They are so massive and so hot, there's an intimidation factor, even when you deal with them every day. You've learned better. You know. When we burn ourselves here it's typically on a sheet pan that's coming out of an oven. The worst I've ever had, I was working an Asian concept and I was working a wok...I got a little too much oil in there and it splashed on my hands. I had some pretty good burns for a month or so. I decided to give up my career as a hand model when I entered this industry.

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Chicago Father's Day Events

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:00 CST

Dad's done so much for you, from teaching you to play catch to putting you through college. Pay him back this Father's Day with a feast he won't soon forget at some fine Chicago-area restaurants. Events and specials take place on Sunday, June 21 unless otherwise noted.

Park 52
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; make a reservation at the restaurant's website
Nothing makes Dad happier than a big, fat steak. Enjoy this Hyde Park favorite's three-course prix-fixe prime rib special for $45. The meal includes salad or soup, 12 oz. prime rib served with choice of veggie sides and flourless chocolate cake, bread pudding or creme brulee to top it off. Reservations are recommended.

SushiSamba Rio
Adventurous fathers will find a lot to like at this always vibrant eatery in River North. The Father's Day brunch special includes one appetizer (fried oysters, kobe beef tataki, kimchee tuna tartar, yellowtail ceviche) and one main plate (open-faced churrasco sandwich, mini-moqueca, cast-iron baked eggs, Peruvian anticucho assortment) for $25, with optional beer pairings an additional $15. Plus, all dads will leave with $10 gift cards.

Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
Throughout June, Jake Melnick's is serving the Big Daddy Burger: A 9 oz. hand-crafted burger, stuffed with bleu cheese and basted with homemade steak sauce, then topped with black peppercorn bacon, horseradish havarti, crispy onion strings, aioli, lettuce and tomato on a pretzel bun. It's paired with a Phin & Matt's Extraordinary Ale and fries for $9.95. On Father's Day, this burger-and-a-beer combo will only be $5 for Dad.

John Barleycorn (Schaumburg)
10 a.m.-3 p.m. (brunch); 5-9 p.m. (dinner)
If Dad is the early-to-rise type, head to Barleycorn for an all-you-can-eat $9.95 brunch buffet. The spread includes breakfast fare, hand-carved prime rib, made-to-order omelets, an interactive pasta station and more. The first 25 fathers who dine at John Barleycorn receive free tickets for the Chicago Improv. If you're letting Dad sleep in, make plans for the all-you-can-eat $12.95 dinner buffet instead. The spread includes hickory-smoked baby back ribs, hand-carved prime rib, made-to-order pasta, side dishes, desserts and more. Drink specials for the day include $15 Miller buckets, $3 Sam Adams drafts and $4 Fat Tire drafts.

Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
4-10 p.m. (Chicago); 5-9 p.m. (Rosemont); 4-9 p.m. (Lombard)
All Harry Caray's locations have special menu items meant for fathers to enjoy, including a bleu cheese-crusted prime rib (Lombard) and a BBQ basket featuring ribs and brisket (Chicago). But the biggest draw, in our opinion, is that Dad can enter to win a dinner for four at any location with Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks. That'll make him forget all about the fact that you gave him another tie.

Harry Caray's Tavern
7 p.m.-close
Taking Dad to the Cubs game? Stop into Harry Caray's afterward and get him a free burger from the Holy Cow! burger bar, featuring a wide selection of meats, toppings and buns. The deal doesn't start 'til 7 p.m., so you may have to take him to a few bars first, depending on how long the game goes.

Joey's Brickhouse
$25 per person
Got a family full of picky eaters? Everyone's bound to find something to eat at Joey's Dad's Day Italian-Style Buffet, which includes a section of favorites from the old country (lasagna, Sicilian pizza, spicy seafood pasta, chicken vesuvio). Your table will also get fresh homemade garlic bread and your choice of first and second courses including stuffed artichokes and caesar salad. And something special for those extra-picky eaters: kids under 12 get a complimentary bowl of spaghetti and meatballs and a cookie cup of homemade ice cream.

Niche (Geneva)
11 a.m.-2 p.m.; $35
Enjoy a three-course beer brunch at this modern Geneva cafe. The meal includes: signature Szechwan beef hanger steak grilled and carved with crisp won-tons, sesame aioli and fresh scallions served with Omegang Abbey Ale; tender braised pork shoulder in a traditional mole sauce layered with crisp tortillas, lime-aleppo chile dressed jicama, toasted peanuts and queso fresco served with Rogue, Dead Guru Ale; and dark chocolate ice cream and Young's Double Chocolate Stout beer float with sweet malted whip cream.

La Tache
10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Indulge in this Andersonville bistro's special brunch menu featuring items like Fathers Day pancakes (citrus-braised short ribs over Johnny cakes), corned beef hash (Boars Head corned beef, green bell peppers and confit shallots, with eggs and toast) and Kobe burger (8-ounce Kobe meat, a sunny-side up egg, garlic aioli and onion frites).

Le Titi de Paris
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $36-$39
So, ton pere likes zee French cuisine, eh? This Arlington Heights restaurant should provide that certain je ne sais quoi, with a three- or four-course menu including braised short ribs, Mediterranean rubbed duck breast, creme brulee and more.

The Pony
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
This Lakeview bar commemorates Father's Day with a two-for-one deal on all breakfast items with a complimentary beer or one of the bar's mouthwatering burgers and beer. Fathers and sons can enjoy the deal throughout the day and The Pony will pick up the tab on one of the items for equal or lesser value.

Sweets and Savories
If Dad loves free French food, take him to this Lincoln Park spot, where he'll get his meal for nothing with the purchase of an entree of equal or greater cost. The kobe beef burger with foie gras ($17), named Chicago's best burger a while ago, could be the way to go.

O'Donovan's
10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $13.95 for adults, $6.95 for kids 11 and under
If Dad can really put it away, this all-you-can-eat brunch is a good choice, as O'Donovan's has supplemented its already hearty brunch buffet fare (a waffle station, carved ham and roast beef, biscuits and gravy, a bottomless pit of Sloppy Joes) with some Father's Day specials including Philly steaks, grilled hot dogs and brats, a nacho station, paella, a south-of-the-border skillet with chorizo, mini apple pie with cream filling and corn bread stuffed with cranberry sauce. $6 White Trash mimosas (Tang and Miller Lite, we hear) will also be available.

Shaw's Crab House
10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (Chicago); 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (Schaumburg); $49.99 for adults, $19.99 for kids, those under five eat free
Shaw's is so sure Dad will love its hotel-style brunch, the restaurant is offering every father who visits a $25 gift certificate for a future dining experience. The buffet features classic breakfast specialties, a make-your-own omelet and waffle station with 13 ingredients, a carving station with beef tenderloin and roast turkey, a cold seafood bar with sushi, oysters and Alaskan king crab bites and a Sweet Table with bite-size portions of many desserts.

Captain Morgan Club
10 a.m.-noon
Cubs-fan dads have another chance to fulfill a dream; if he fills out a raffle card at this bar attached to Wrigley Field before noon, he could be getting his picture taken on the field with up to three guests (hopefully he chooses you) one hour before game time. Game tickets are not necessary.

Holy Mackerel!
If you don't want to hear another story about the one that got away, take Dad to this Lombard seafood spot, where he can chow down on a whole red snapper, served with white sticky rice, stir-fried vegetables and a sesame scallion glaze ($34.95). The full seafood menu will be available.

Smoke Daddy
noon-3 p.m. Saturday, June 20; $25 per person
Want to start your celebration a little early? Smoke Daddy hosts a pre-Father's Day pig roast featuring all-you-can-eat smoked pork, coleslaw, and housemade chips, plus unlimited drafts of Bud Light. The Tri-State Blues Band performs live, and the full regular menu is also available.

Duchamp
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Take advantage of this Bucktown staple's $29 prixe fixe brunch menu, which includes a three-course meal of favorites from Executive Chef Michael Taus. Start off with a choice of apps like chilled rock shrimp and roasted tomato gazpacho, followed by main courses like steak & eggs, smoked Norweigan salmon or havarti cheeseburger with tomato remoulade. Finish things of with desserts like caramelized lemon tart with strawberry-cardamom, cupcakes and homemade ice cream sandwiches.

Sheffield's
10 a.m.
Planning to take Dad out for an afternoon on the links? Stop by Sheffield's first, where he'll get a complimentary sleeve of golf balls with the purchase of a meal (he can also enter to win two tickets to an upcoming Cubs game). Brunch specials include prime rib with baked potato and roasted corn on the cob ($12.95).

Salute Wine Bar
Four courses, including beer pairings, for just $19 - now that's a deal any dad can get behind. Salute's Father's Day deal includes mushroom and goat cheese bruschetta (paired with Manabrea Blond), house-made duck pate and duck prosciutto (Cassissona), bresola and tartufo panini (Moretti La Rossa) and mini-cannoli and fig compote (Draco). Beer expert David Frost will be on hand from 1-6 p.m. to answer questions about the pairings and about Italian beer culture. The special is available all day.

Between Boutique Cafe and Lounge
6-10 p.m.; $50
New chef Noah Sandoval offers a five-course menu with beer pairings, including mixed greens (Three Floyds Alpha King), venison carpaccio (Dogfish Head 90-Minute IPA), duck breast (Rocquefort #8 Trappiste), ribeye (La Chouffe Belgian ale) and Betwinki, a golden sponge cake with white chocolate ganache and three-chocolate soups (Lindemans Raspberry Lambic).

WingTown Grill
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dads dining with their kids at this chicken-crazy spot on Sunday will receive a free pound of wings covered in their favorite WingTown sauce. There are tons of sauces to choose from, ranging from "tame" to "ouch!" in terms of spice. There are also six specialty wing creations, including a cheesy Italian version.

Glen Prairie
This Glen Ellyn restaurant aims to please Dad with items straight from the grill, with meals including spice-rubbed baby-back pork ribs (full slab $22, half-slab $15), grilled half Amish chicken with pineapple brown sugar glaze ($21) and "the Cowboy," a bone-in ribeye ($34). Each meal includes a choice of two sides, including BBQ pork and beans, grilled sweet corn, loaded baked potato, coleslaw, French fries, mac 'n' cheese and sauteed green beans ($4 if purchased separately).

Maxwell's at The Club
10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $45 for adults, $15 for children under 10
Pops can stuff himself silly at this lavish all-you-can-eat buffet, including a variety of appetizers, salads and entrees, a carving room with prime rib and rack of lamb, and an omelet and waffle station.

Pappadeaux (Arlington Heights)
9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $19.95
This may be a seafood restaurant, but there's nothing fishy about its all-you-can-eat brunch buffet, which includes a carving station with ham, prime rib and lamb, a made-to-order waffle, pancake and omelet station and more. The regular menu will also be available, and there will be live jazz and a balloon artist.

Sweet Baby Ray's Barbecue (Elk Grove Village)
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; $28.95, $14.99 for children
What could say "I love you, Dad" better than a barbecue buffet? Sweet Baby Ray's feast includes an outdoor grill station with Southern-style spit-roasted pig, fresh bratwurst and sausage, mini garlic burgers and Jamaican jerk chicken wings; a carving station with brisket, smoked pork loin, shrimp and grilled mahi mahi; and breakfast items like made-to-order omelets, eggs Benedict, French toast and more. Add on the Bloody Mary Bar for just $7.99.

Farmerie 58
$34
Spend some family time at the Farmerie with a special three-course prix-fixe menu. Choose from crab saffron fondue, bacon-wrapped prawns, chopped house salad and sweet corn ravioli for the first course, bone-in ribeye, cola BBQ ribs and wild salmon for the second, and chocolate cake with ice cream or apple pie with spiced apple ice cream for dessert.

Leona's
At this popular Italian spot (12 locations in the area), Dad can select any entree on the menu for half-price. We suggest one of the 11 lasagna varieties, including five cheese with tomato cream sauce and grilled shrimp, or spinach and artichoke with roasted salmon.

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba
Papas who love tapas will enjoy getting a $25 gift certificate when they dine at this Lincoln Park restaurant for brunch (with over 15 breakfast tapas, cava cocktails and a build-your-own bloody mary bar) or dinner on Sunday. Paramount Room
11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Enjoy Father's Day specials from Chef/Partner Stephen Dunne like the Dad "Slam" Breakfast (available until 3 p.m.) - 2-ounce NY Strip steak, Berkshire bacon, house-made breakfast sausage, 2 eggs any style, and a 4-ounce bloody Mary "Shorty" (12.95). Or take Pops out for dinner after 3 p.m. and his entree is free.

The Spot
Want to show Dad something he's never seen before (or at least not in a long time)? The Diva Brunch, featuring the Flaming Dames and Off Off Broadzway Burlesque Sketch Revue, should do the trick. Miss Scooty hosts shows at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Still need a gift? Check out our list of Father's Day Finds.

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Pack the Perfect Picnic

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Clifton Henri

pictured: Goddess and Grocer

/From concerts at Ravinia and Millennium Park to the Outdoor Film Festival in Grant Park, summer in Chicago is full of opportunities for outdoor dining. And while we'd never suggest you race around town hand-picking two dozen items to create the mother of all picnics, mayonnaise salad and Wonder Bread buns simply don't cut it when you have so many awesome options at your fingertips. Trade one or two of your ho-hum plastic tubs for a couple of these tantalizing items and watch your picnic go from blah to wow in no time flat.

Fresh meets fantastic at Goddess and Grocer
Though it'd be easy to snag an entire picnic from the packed deli cases at Goddess and Grocer, stick to the salads to knock your picnic out of the park. The pre-made mozzarella and tomato is simple yet sensational, while the persnickety picnicker can create a salad built to order with the fully stocked salad spread.

Share the (sandwich) love with Trotter's To Go
While many of our wallets can't hack a meal at Trotter's sit-down restaurant, sandwiches from the chef's express shop are more likely to fall within your budget. Go upscale up with artisan, hand-carved classics like the French brie on baguette with green apple and celery remoulade or the Darjeeling tea-cured smoked salmon with English cucumber and creme fraiche.

Love grows on trees at Andy's Fruit Ranch
Strawberries will never go out of style, but a fruit salad tastes even better when you punch it up with a few less-traditional pounds of produce. Hit up Andy's Fruit Ranch with your reusable grocery bag and leave fully loaded with everything from kumquats to monster-size cherries to bitter melons. Your biceps will thank you later.

Eat your veggies with Cooking Fools
Sick of coleslaw for the requisite veggie side dish? Cooking Fools' has you covered. Among the healthy, prepared foods just itching to be eaten in the sun, we prefer the eggplant foldovers, eggplant planks stuffed with spinach, pine nuts and aged gouda. It's the perfect forkless feast.

Rock and roll(s) at Red Hen Bakery
Hit up the Hen for killer rolls. At least two dozen breads, from chewy to crusty to herb-infused?come out of the oven daily for drop-by customers, so you'll have plenty of options to scoop into your picnic basket. And what's a picnic without great bread?

Smile and say cheese at Pastoral
This gourmet cheese and goodies shop stocks more than 80 international and domestic cheeses, mostly from artisanal producers. Even better, the smarty-pants staffers each boast a culinary school degree, and they're eager to make suggestions and pairings.

Score sensational Sicilian snacks at L'Appetito
Arancini derive their name from oranges because at first glance you could mistake the fist-sized, golden skin of these Sicilian snacks for a piece of fruit. One bite of these sinful rice balls, stuffed with peas, meat sauce and mozzarella, tears that healthy fa�ade to shreds. What they are is delicious, with a firm, crunchy exterior and warm, savory interior that's nearly addictive.

End it on a sweet note with a trip to Pasticceria Natalina
Swing by this Sicilian bakery just before hitting the lake. Owner Natalie Zarzour hand-fills the cannoli after they've been ordered, which means the pistachio-crusted sweet ricotta filling doesn't have time to make the pastry shell soggy before it hits your belly. Go on, order a few.

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Farmers' Markets

Sun, 24 May 2009 12:00:00 CST

Travelers make pit stops for sweet corn along the road for a reason: The foreign allure of the fresh-from-the-vine fruits and vegetables. Luckily, your urban veggie experience isn't restricted to chain shopping, and it certainly doesn't require a car (just a backpack or strong biceps). Chicago offers a bevy of long-standing markets that bring the best of the farm to your neighborhood. Expect a solid dose of Americana?rhubarb, basil, flowers and homemade breads?and expect to pay a bit more. You won't see 99-cent containers of strawberries, but you won't see rotting, pale red berries either. You'll want to get up with the roosters, too. Most markets open at 7 a.m. and call it quits by mid-afternoon. Though a complete roster of Chicago farmers markets follows, here are our favorite weekend ones...because we work, too: Check out the big mamma-jamma at Green City Market
Truly a family of local producers, farmers, restaurateurs and chefs, Green City Market is open on Saturdays, too (hallelujah). Past producers include Red Hen Bakery, Herbally Yours and Nichols Farm & Orchard, which always boasts a staggering number of strawberry varieties. You'll also find herbs, heirloom tomatoes, organic free-range chicken, gourmet vinegars and a mean crepes stand that uses fillings gleaned from neighboring booths. Learn how to prepare your food with the 10:30 a.m. cooking demo; famed chefs include Rick Bayless of Frontera Grill and Gale Gand of Tru. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday; May 6-Oct. 31. Get veggies on the North Side at Edgewater Green Market
There's no need to trek downtown for organic produce. This weekly farmers' market is stocked with fruits and veggies, compliments of Kings Hill Farm Cooperative and True Nature Foods. You'll also find jams, flowers, honey and breads from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin. In the past, Soul Cafe has sold fair-trade coffee to help rouse early risers, while Soothe Your Senses presented bath salts, eye tea and massage oil to wind down your day with. Additional specialty vendors participate on the third Saturday of each month. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; June 20-Oct. 31. Brunch at Lula, then shop at Logan Square Farmers' Market
What started as a bi-weekly market in 2005 has already jumped to a weekly one, and it's a farm-centric gathering worth supporting. Held at the intersection of Logan & Milwaukee, this is an easy market for Wicker Park/Bucktown residents to get to. Once there you'll find produce from City Farm, organic bread and pastries from Golden Rise Bakery, flowers from D&K Farms and M's Organic vegetables, flowers, canned goods and soaps. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday; June 7-Oct. 25. Shop like Frank would at Oak Park Farmers' Market
What better time than summer to take a jaunt to the Frank Lloyd Wright-heavy village of Oak Park? And what better way to return than laden with fresh veggies? Offering locally grown produce in a setting that heralds back to those early Arts & Crafts days, the "gastronomic event" comes complete with bluegrass tunes, the scent of freshly-made old-fashioned cake donuts, produce, traditional and unusual flowers and plants, artisanal cheeses, honey, vinegars, herbs and more. A bag check area lets you temporarily set down your load while you enjoy other local goodies. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; May 23-October 31. Take a weekend drive to Northfield Farmers' Market
Rainy Saturday got you down? Hop in the car and take a trip to Northfield, where you'll reap vitamin-filled rewards thanks to the town's rain-or-shine farmers market. In addition to seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables, you'll find Wisconsin cheeses, maple syrup, honey, just-from-the-oven breads, herbal soaps and fresh cut flowers. 7:30 a.m.-noon Saturday; June 6-Oct. 24. Don't miss these other weekly markets, which take over pockets of the city from the heart of downtown to the edge of Rogers Park: Tuesdays

Federal Plaza, at Adams and Dearborn
7 a.m.-3 p.m.; May 12-Oct. 27

Lincoln Square, at Lincoln, Leland and Western
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 9-Oct. 27

Lombard, at St. Charles and Elizabeth
8 a.m.-1 p.m.; May 12-Oct. 13 Museum of Contemporary Art, at Chicago and Mies van der Rohe Way
9 a.m.-4 p.m.; June 9-Oct. 27

Prudential Plaza, at Lake and Beaubien Court
7 a.m.-3 p.m.; June 9-Oct. 27

South Chicago, at 83rd and Marquette
9 a.m.-4 p.m.; July 7-Oct. 27

Wednesdays

Chatham, 87th and Langley
9 a.m.-2 p.m.; July 15-Sep. 30

Gately/Pullman, at 111th and Cottage Grove
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 10-Oct. 28

Lawndale, at Central Park and Homan
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; July 8-Oct. 14

ShoreBank, at 7054 S. Jeffery
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 10-Oct. 28

South Shore, at 70th and Jeffery
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 0-Oct. 28

Thursdays Daley Plaza, at Washington & Dearborn
7 a.m.-3 p.m.; May 14-Oct. 15

Dunning-Eli's/Wright College, at Montrose and Forest Preserve Avenue
7 a.m.-3 p.m.; June 8-Oct. 29

Englewood, at 63rd and Halsted
8 a.m.-1 p.m.; June 18-Oct. 29

Hyde Park, at 3424 Edwards
8 a.m.-3 p.m.; June 14-Oct. 29

Sears Tower, at 233 S. Wacker
7 a.m.-3 p.m.; June 18-Oct. 29

Smart Home, at Museum of Science and Industry
8 a.m.-3 p.m.; June 5-Oct. 16 (first and third Fridays)

The Park at Jackson and Wacker
7 a.m.-3 p.m.; June-Oct.

Saturdays Austin, at Madison & Central
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; July 11-Oct. 24

Conuco, at 2626 W. Division
9 a.m.-1 p.m.; June-Oct. Evanston, at University and Oak
7:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; May 16-Nov. 7

Lincoln Park, at Armitage and Orchard
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; May 16-Oct. 31

Morgan Park, at 92nd and Ashland
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June-Oct.

Near North, at Division and Dearborn
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June-Oct.

North Center, at Damen and Lincoln
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June-Oct.

Printer's Row, at Dearborn and Polk
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 13-Oct. 31

Southport Green Market, at Grace and Southport
8 a.m.-noon; June 13-Oct. 10

Sundays Ashburn, at 87th & Kedzie
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 28-Oct. 18

Beverly, at 95th and Longwood
7 a.m.-2 p.m.; May 17-Oct. 25

Bronzeville, at E. 44th and Cottage Grove
8 a.m.-1 p.m.; June 6-Oct. 31

Portage Park at 4100 N. Long
10 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 21-Oct. 24 (first and third Sundays)

Wicker Park/Bucktown, at Wicker Park along Damen
7 a.m.-2 p.m., June 7-Oct. 25

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Springtime Spears

Wed, 13 May 2009 12:00:00 CST

It's the season for all things green, and there's a reason why asparagus tops the list of our favorite farm-fresh picks each year. Its vibrant green stalks (or white, if you're into that sort of thing) are great for snacking raw, drizzling with olive oil, tossing in a salad, blending into a soup and (our personal favorite) wrapping in bacon. In fact, the possibilities for asparagus are almost endless, but the spears themselves aren't. They'll only be around for the next month or two, so get over to these venues before you miss out.

NoMI
We wouldn't normally think of calling this Michigan Avenue restaurant "budget-friendly." But NoMI's $25 prix-fixe lunch is helping to change that. The value-minded three-course meal kicks off spring with a chilled asparagus soup, topped with toasted brioche and vanilla creme fraiche. For the main course, you can have your pick of the flat-iron steak sandwich, ricotta gnocchi, the ikebana sushi platter or NoMI's fresh catch of the day. Desserts include seasonal sorbets, peaches-and-cream ice cream bars and chocolate-raspberry savarin. If a $25 lunch is still enough to make you wince, try the asparagus soup a la carte for $12.

Arrowhead Restaurant and Bar
It's one thing to offer a seasonal asparagus dish, but its entirely another to give the perennial plant its very own menu. That's exactly what Arrowhead has in store for its first annual Asparagus Fest. Throughout the month of May, guests will have the chance to sample a lineup of unique dishes like asparagus and shrimp risotto, polenta and gruyere timbale with asparagus-morel sauce and asparagus soup with white truffle crouton. You can also get the stuff coated in tempura with bearnaise sauce or wrapped in prosciutto. For the main course, Arrowhead is featuring a pork tenderloin and asparagus roulade, served with potato-asparagus hash and apple cider reduction sauce, along with an Alaskan halibut and asparagus-mushroom ragout in red wine sauce. Prices range from $4-$21.

Nettelhorst French Market If you like your asparagus in the raw, or are just looking to save some dough by preparing it yourself, then hike it over to the French Market. This little spot, located in the Nettelhorst School parking lot, brings together an eclectic bunch of farmers, bakers, fromaggiers, florists and other artisans every Saturday (through November 1) from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. But before you get too caught up in nibbling on scones, coconut macaroons and giant chocolate cupcakes, pay a visit to the produce guy. Not only will he keep you on the right track, he'll sell you a full bundle of the freshest white or green stalks in the city for about $4.

Farmerie 58
When it comes to seasonal ingredients, it only makes sense for a farm-focused restaurant to already be a step above the rest. So we weren't surprised when we noticed an asparagus soup on Farmerie 58's new spring menu, and we weren't disappointed, either. The $8 dish, served with sauteed spring peas and creme fraiche, makes for the perfect perennial appetizer or figure-friendly meal. We recommend following up with something light, like the restaurant's seafood salad, a mix of scallops, crab, shrimp, mixed greens and honey-lime dressing, $12.

Carnivale
Carnivale is all about asparagus this month, and to prove it, the restaurant will feature the green in a special salad from Monday, May 18-Sunday, May 24. In addition to the main ingredient, the farm-fresh dish will bring together jonah crab and green-garlic jalapeno dressing, $12. Other farm-inspired dishes include a white gazpacho (marcona almonds, blue marble yogurt, grapes, extra virgin olive oil), wild salmon (roasted mushrooms, leeks, aji rocoto cream) and panna cotta (yogurt lemon custard, quince, cheese empanada), $7-$28.

Tapas Valencia
This recently opened South Loop spot boasts a brand-new lunch menu, complete with our favorite seasonal spear. The menu, featuring salads, entrees and hot and cold tapas, makes good use of asparagus in its pisto manchego with sauteed vegetables, $5.25. But we think the green really makes a statement in the esparragos con salmon, crisp asparagus spears wrapped in smoked salmon and served on dill sour cream toast points with mixed baby greens, $9.25.

Kohan
Asparagus is always in vogue at this Japanese restaurant, where it makes appearances in a number of signature maki rolls like the regionally inspired Chicago Bulls and the student-friendly UIC. The first showcases asparagus in a spicy mix of tuna, fresh yellowtail, sliced jalapeno, avocado and tobiko, $15. The second, designed with the college crowd in mind, brings together spicy tuna, crab, avocado and asparagus, and then deep-fries it for an extra crunch, $10. There's also a little something simple here for the vegetarians with the broiled asparagus roll, $4. But our personal favorite is the asparagus beef; the pan-fried perennial gets wrapped in a slice of beef and served with Kohan's sweet teriyaki sauce, $8.

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Mother's Day Brunches

Wed, 06 May 2009 12:00:00 CST

Treat Mom right with a Mother's Day brunch.

While there's nothing like a home-cooked meal from Mom, it's never really the same when you try your hand in the kitchen. Spare everyone the embarrassment of burnt toast and runny eggs and take the family to one of these Mother's Day brunches. It may not be breakfast in bed, but at least it's edible.

More Mother's Day: Gift ideas | Great bakeries

Shine
4 p.m.-10 p.m.; $24 per person
This Lincoln Park restaurant is offering Mom a three-course Chinese-fueled menu featuring ethnic treats like satay beef with peanut sauce, chicken pot stickers with sweet sesame soy, fried garlic prawns, sesame chicken with baby bok choy and chocolate tarts with espresso sauce for dessert. Mom can also choose from Shine's regular menu featuring classic Chinese dishes and a savory selection of sushi.

Sixteen
10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; $115 per adult, $25 for children under 8; call (312) 588-8030 for reservations
Mom can dine like a queen at this swank restaurant, located on the 16th floor of the Trump International Hotel & Tower. Executive chef Frank Brunacci will prepare elaborate brunch dishes including sushi, omelets, charcuterie, pastries and children's stations. Mom can choose from items like corn bisque with truffle, seared halibut with pea puree, ahi tuna nicoise and forest mushroom salad. There will also be on-site paraffin and hand massages throughout brunch and will have the chance to win a day of pampering at the hotel's spa. Sixteen will open for dinner on Mother's Day from 6-9:30 p.m.

May Street Market
10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; $45 per person; reservations required, call (312) 421-5547 or e-mail food@maystreetmarket.com
Executive Chef and Owner Alexander Cheswick will prepare a unique three-course brunch to celebrate Mom's special day. To start, the lady of honor can choose from beef Wellington ravioli, sangria salad and white asparagus soup. For the main course, Mom can have her pick of slow-roasted beef tenderloin, pan-seared Alaskan halibut and grilled zucchini frittatas. Dessert choices include warm chocolate fondant with lavender ice cream and strawberry shortcake with vanilla poached rhubarb and balsamic ice cream. The $12 kids prix-fixe menu features fresh fruit plates with yogurt, waffles with sliced bananas, cheddar cheese risotto with barbecue chicken and vanilla cupcakes (or toffee milkshakes) for dessert.

Sortie
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Join the recent Gold Coast addition as it kicks off its new Sunday brunch menu with a worldly Mother's Day brunch. Sortie will feature an eclectic spread of Turkish and American fare in the form of a $15 pre-fixe buffet, which includes a complimentary bloody mary or mimosa. Mothers will also receive a pink rose. In Fine Spirits Lounge
1-4 p.m.; call (773) 334-9463 for reservations
Looking for an alternative to all those run-of-the-mill hotel brunches? Head over to this Andersonville lounge for a chic cocktail luncheon. Mom can nibble on figure-friendly salads like arugula with goat cheese, tuna confit with roasted potato and spring mix with beets, oranges and pea shoots. She can also choose from a selection of entrees like the roasted chicken tartine, pan-seared halibut or butter-poached chicken bowtie pasta. Specialty cocktails include the Godmother (vodka, armaretto), The White Lady (gin, Cointreau, egg white) and the Swedish Mary (aquavit, spicy bloody mary mix).

Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; $79 per adult, $30 per child, children 6 and under eat free; call (312) 324 4000 for reservations
This indulgent champagne brunch in the Grand Ballroom will include a bevy of treats from executive chef Martial Noguier and executive pastry chef Suzanne Imaz. Highlights include homemade crepes and French bean salad with roasted hazelnuts, vine ripe tomatoes and creme fraiche. There will also be a number of buffet stations boasting favorites like homemade granola with yogurt, made-to-order Belgian waffles, poached Madagascar shrimp, oysters on the half shell and crab salad with cabbage coleslaw and lemon confit. The brunch will feature a special buffet station for the little ones, including mac n' cheese, pasta, hot dogs, mini burgers and chicken fingers.

David Burke's Primehouse
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $48 for adults; $20 for kids 12 and under
David Burke's is pulling out all the stops this year for its family-style Mother's Day brunch. Breakfast highlights include Chef Jove's homemade strudel, mini bialies and lobster with scrambled eggs. If its lunch Mom is hankering for, she can pick from dishes like baked spinach and artichoke hearts, veal meatballs and chopped salad. For dessert, the restaurant will offer sweet selections like carrot cake, strawberry crisp and special "fortune" doughnuts (with hidden gifts and messages inside). For an extra $10, guests can indulge in all-you-can-drink champagne, mimosas, bloody marys and screwdrivers.

C-House
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
C-House, located downtown in the Affinia Hotel, will celebrate Mother's Day with a Brazilian-themed Bossa Nova brunch. Executive chef Seth Siegel-Gardner will treat Mom to plenty of festive dishes, along with traditional staples like French toast, buttermilk pancakes, eggs benedict and granola parfaits. There will also be a selection of sandwiches including the C-House whitefish burger with tartar sauce and the BOSSA burger with beef, cheddar and pastrami-smoked smoked. All moms will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and a special treat from Executive Pastry Chef Toni Roberts.

Fulton's on the River
10 a.m.-6 p.m.; $42.95 for adults, $15.95 for kids ages 7-12; call (312) 822-0100 for reservations
If Mom is longing for a tranquil escape from the mess of her own kitchen, she'll find it at this relaxing riverside restaurant. Mom can kick back with a complimentary glass of champagne while she chooses from dishes like fresh-baked quiche, smoked salmon benedict and classic French toast. Fulton's also has something for the little ones with its menu of chicken tenders, penne pasta, mini pizzas and grilled PB&Js.

Zest
Noon-3 p.m.; $55 for adults, $20 for children ages 12 and under
Zest, located in the Intercontinental Hotel, will offer an impressive selection of brunch favorites in honor of Mom's special day. In addition to its traditional brunch items, Zest will also feature a seafood bar with fresh-shucked oysters, house-cured salmon and assorted sushi. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the carving table with roasted prime rib and mahi mahi, or choose from special entrees like glazed pork loin, spicy chicken and roasted duck.

NoMI
11:15 a.m.-3 p.m.; $110 for adults; $30 for kids ages 6-12; call (312) 239-4030 for reservations
Skip the runny eggs and dry toast this year and treat mom to NoMI's lavish park brunch. The restaurant will offer a bevy of hot and cold items highlighting treats from the ocean, the bakery, the garden, the deli and the griddle. Guests can also take advantage of the carving station and finish with a little something sweet from the pastry table.

Bistro 110
10:30 a.m.; call (312) 266-3110 for reservations
Bistro 110 will serve a mom-friendly menu, highlighting its signature French cuisine and complimentary mimosas for all moms. To start, guests can indulge in the restaurant's asparagus and mushroom au gratin, followed by beef carpaccio or sauteed skate wing served on a bed of French green beans. For dessert, Bistro 110 will offer an old fashioned lemon pudding cake with raspberries and whipped cream. Prices range from $5.95-$21.95.

The Pony
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Treat Mom to a traditional American brunch with The Pony's festive menu, featuring special items like bacon-brie quiche and French toast with berries. House favorites like chicken n' waffles, breakfast stacks and breakfast sliders will also be available, $7-$8.

Silver Cloud
10 a.m.-4 p.m. brunch; 5 p.m.-midnight dinner
Mom will love the classic comfort food at this 1940s-style Bucktown restaurant. She can choose from brunch dishes like cheese-baked eggs, smoked salmon benedict, blueberry pancakes or stuffed turkey sandwiches. For dinner, there's marinated pork chops, brie burgers or grandma's meatloaf. To make it even better, Mom's meal is on the house, leaving you more dough to splurge on a round of Silver Cloud's signature mimosas (including orange, pomegranate, mango, pineapple and papaya), $6.95 each.

Fiddlehead Cafe
$19
This Lincoln Square staple will offer a brunch buffet complete with house-smoked beef brisket, honey-baked ham, made-to-order omelets, waffles and a dessert bar. Reservations will not be accepted, but the restaurant claims that there's never more than a 15-minute wait.

Via Ventuno
4 p.m.-9 p.m.;$29
Executive Chef Jim Kilberg will present mom with a four-course tasting menu at this old Capone haunt. The recently opened restaurant will offer a choice of lobster ravioli, pan-roasted halibut, and filet mignon with sauteed morels, along with a selection of salads and desserts. Each mom will also receive a complimentary Mother's Day bouquet cocktail, made with Hendricks Gin, St. Germain liqueur, Peachcello and Prosecco ($10 for all non-moms). Kids can choose from a kid-focused menu, featuring spaghetti with meatballs, penne alfredo, chicken Parmesan and steak with fries.

Signature Room at the 95th
10 a.m.-7 p.m.; $65 for adults, $25 for children ages 4-12; call (312) 787-9596 for reservations
The Signature Room's Mother's Day buffet will feature plenty of hearty fare, including honey-glazed ham and slow-roasted strip loin. Mom can also choose from guilty breakfast favorites like blueberry or chocolate chip pancakes or she can keep it light with the restaurant's raw bar or its selection of gourmet salads. Whatever she chooses, she'll want to save room for a slice of layered carrot cake or the popular chocolate mousse cake.

Park 52
9 a.m.-7 p.m.; call (773) 241-5200 for reservations
Bring Mom over to Park 52 before 2 p.m. and she can indulge in the restaurant's selection of brunch favorites, including French toast, waffles, salads and sandwiches. After 2 p.m., Mom can pick from a bevy of dinner dishes like pasta, steaks, chicken and baby back ribs to go along with her complimentary mimosa. Park 52 will also offer a little something for the kids, including mini-cheeseburgers, grilled cheese, fried shrimp, grilled chicken, penne pasta and mini filet mignon.

Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $29.95 per person
Mom can enjoy a four-course meal at this swank Boystown lounge. Highlights include family-style beignets, gazpacho with creme fraiche, slow-roasted corn beef hash, petite sirloin steak, Texas-style French toast and mini cupcake duos (red velvet with mascarpone, honey lavender) for dessert. Throughout the meal, guests will also enjoy live performances by the legendary Kit Kat Diva, Madame X.

Pappadeaux (Westmont)
10 a.m.-10 p.m. Mom can enjoy all her favorites from the restaurant?s regular menu, including hazelnut-crusted tilapia, jumbo sea scallops with fresh ginger butter and blackened catfish (with oysters, shrimp and crabmeat) in a lemon-garlic butter sauce, $19.95-$26.95. A balloon artist and clown will also be on site to keep the little ones entertained.

Pappadeaux (Arlington Heights)
9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $19.95 per person
Pappadeaux's Arlington Heights location will celebrate Mother's Day with an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet. The restaurant will feature different stations, stacked with choices like ham, prime rib, lamb and made-to-order omelets. In addition to a live performance from jazz pianist Timothy Hardin, a balloon artist will be on site for the kids to enjoy.

Tramonto's Steak & Seafood
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $39.95 per adult, $13.95 for children ages 12 and under
Tramonto's will offer a variety of breakfast staples, including sausage, bacon, pastries and pancakes. Guests can belly up to the omelet station for a made-to-order favorite, or go for something a little lighter with the restaurant's assortment of salads and pastas. Carnivorous types will enjoy Tramonto's roast beef with horseradish cream and turkey breast with giblet gravy. There will also be a dessert station and complimentary cocktails at the mimosa and bloody mary bar. As a special treat, Mom will receive a $25 gift card to enjoy on her next visit.

Petterino's
$29.95 per adult, $12.95 for children 12 and under; call (312) 422-0150 for reservations
Executive chef Francis Brennan will treat Mom like the belle of the ball with a fresh rose corsage, a Mother's Day card, a Petterino's gift certificate and plenty of seasonal fare. Highlights include tomato bisque, roasted Alaskan halibut, broiled Atlantic salmon, roasted leg of lamb and lobster-asparagus omelets. The restaurant will also offer a special menu for kids 12 and under, featuring banana-orange-strawberry smoothies, apple-cinnamon French toast, blueberry pancakes and Belgian waffles.

Chandler's Chophouse & Grille
Noon-9 p.m.; call (847) 885-9009 for reservations
The Schaumburg restaurant will offer all of Mom's favorites this year. First, there's the soup of the day, a creamy lemon herb chicken with rice and a crab rangoon appetizer served with sweet chili-garlic sauce. For dinner, Mom can choose from specials like Chandler's surf and turf, a 12-ounce prime rib with seasonal vegetables crab meat-stuffed sole with grilled asparagus or fried chicken with all the fixin's, $21.99 and under. For the kids, there's Kraft mac n' cheese, mini cheeseburgers, chicken fingers and mozzarella sticks, $3.99 each. The restaurant will also offer a number of drink specials just for Mom, including $2.75 glasses of house wine, $4 Skyy vodka cocktails and $4 Skyy martinis.

Le Petit Paris
11:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; call (312) 787-8260 for reservations
This downtown bistro and wine bar is offering an extensive a la carte menu in honor of mothers everywhere. Chef and owner Alain Sitbon will serve classic French dishes such as avocado Belgium endive with crab meat lemon aioli, cheese ravioli with shiitake mushroom, asparagus and pesto, and rack of lamb with herbs and port wine sauce. Starters range from $5-$9 and entrees are $16-$24.

Karma
10 a.m.-4 p.m.; $26.95 per adult, $12.95 for kids 12 and under
Mom and grandma will both receive a complimentary glass of champagne during Karma's Mother's Day celebration. The restaurant will feature a number of buffet stations, including dishes like Creole Bay seafood salad, made-to-order omelets, ginger French toast, pepper-cured bacon, roasted chipotle chicken and garlic-crusted prime rib. For dessert, Mom and grandma can nibble on assorted mini French pastries, fresh tortes and pies.

Maxwell's at The Club
10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $45 per adult, $15 for children under 10
This recently renovated restaurant will give Mom plenty of brunch choices with its extensive buffet menu. She may have a tough time choosing between favorites like roasted rack of lamb with mint jelly and traditional eggs benedict. Of course, that's just the beginning. Mom will also get her pick of roasted potato salad, prime rib of beef, applewood-smoked bacon and cinnamon brioche French toast. Additionally, Maxwell's will offer a Mother's Day dinner buffet from 4-6:30 p.m.

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba
10 a.m.?3 p.m.; call (773) 935-5000 for reservations
Go small plate crazy at Ba-Ba-Reeba's Tapas for Mamas. All "mamas" can enjoy a festive tapas brunch and wash it down with a build-your-own bloody Mary bar, all in the restaurant's lively outdoor patio. Mothers also receive a $10 gift certificate as well as a special treat created by pastry chef Michel Briand.

Duchamp
10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $29 per person
Duchamp will kick off its brand new brunch menu this Mother's Day with an indulgent three-course meal. The festive menu will feature neighborhood favorites like chilled rock shrimp with roasted tomato gazpacho, citrus-roasted beet salad, French toast with lemon mascarpone, havarti cheese burgers with tomato remoulade and homemade ice cream sandwiches for dessert.

Michael
11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; $39 per person, $19 for children 12 and under
Michael will begin its Mother's Day brunch with a choice of house-cured smoked salmon, roasted portabella mushroom with goat cheese and basil, nicoise salad and steamed zucchini blossoms with veal and truffle mousse. For the second course, Mom can have her pick of a French rolled omelet, poached eggs over toasted brioche croutons with lobster raviolis, pan-roasted white fish, grilled flat iron steak or exotic mushroom crepes with rosemary-scented morel cream and silky carrot mousse. Finally, Mom can finish her meal with Michael's seasonal fruit tart, a bittersweet Valrhona chocolate crepe or a white chocolate semifreddo (ice cream pie).

Joey's Brickhouse
Call (773) 296-1300 for reservations
Self-proclaimed "mama's boys" Joey and Greg Morelli will celebrate Mother's Day with an eclectic brunch featuring all of Mom's favorites. Highlights include mascarpone-stuffed French toast, chicken in the pot with matzo balls, chicken breast burgers with curly fries and Reuben melts on rye bread with Munster cheese and napa slaw. The Morelli brothers will also feature some of their own favorites, including Cajun scrambles, California fajitas, roasted artichoke dip and chopped chicken salad. For dessert, Mom can indulge in the restaurant's homemade chocolate chip cookies, s?mores and donuts with strawberry or chocolate dipping sauce.

Bin 36
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $38 per adult, $19 for children ages 12 and under; call (312) 755-9463 for reservations
Bin 36 will honor Mom with a gourmet spread including artisinal cheeses, homemade desserts and specialty drinks. The Mother's Day buffet will include an omelet bar, Belgian waffles, blueberry-ricotta pancakes, asparagus salad, citrus-glazed ham and traditional eggs benedict. Brunch-friendly drinks include $12 flights of bloody marys and mimosas, or $4 milk and juice flights for the little ones.

O'Donovan's
10 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:30 p.m.; $15.95 per adult, $7.95 for children under 11; call (773) 478-2100 for reservations
This North Center pub will offer an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet, featuring festive dishes from Chef Victor DeLeon. Highlights include citrus-crusted grilled tilapia with citrus butter sauce, assorted mini quiches (mushroom-gorgonzola, grilled vegetables with Parmesan, four-cheese with smoked bacon), scrambled eggs with bacon, corned beef hash and homemade pineapple bread pudding with brandy and pecan sauce for dessert. The restaurant will also offer its white trash mimosas and domestic pitchers, $6 and $10 respectively.

Pane Caldo
10 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; call (312) 649-0055 for reservations
Executive Chef Maurice Bonhomme will feature two specialty courses during brunch and a complimentary glass of champagne for Mom. Dinner will include a three-course meal and will be served with a complimentary glass of wine from the restaurant's internationally recognized collection.

Ann Sather (Belmont)
11 a.m.-4 p.m.; $17.95 per adult, $10.95 for children ages 12 and under
In place of its regular menu, the popular Swedish restaurant will serve a selection of Mother's Day dinners. Mom can choose from favorites like roasted leg of lamb with mint jelly, baked ham with sweet potatoes, roasted turkey with celery-sage stuffing, broiled salmon with mustard-dill sauce and beef tenderloin with grilled mushrooms. Each meal will also include assorted homemade breads, tossed salad, fresh asparagus and a choice of apple or pecan pie for dessert. Reservations will be accepted for parties of 6 or more and can be made at (773) 348-2378.

Birch River Grill
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $29.95 per adult, $13.95 for children under 12
This suburban spot will feature plenty of options on Mom's special day. First, there's the seafood station with oysters and cocktail shrimp, followed by the salad station with chopped, Caesar and pasta salads. The continental station will offer assorted fresh breads, muffins, croissants, bagels, and fresh fruit, while the egg and omelet station will make room for made-to-order favorites. And let's not forget about the carving station, complete with turkey and beef tenderloin with red wine demi glaze.

Dine
9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; $39 per adult, $15 for children 12 and under
This West Loop favorite will also offer a number of buffet stations featuring items like seafood bisque, roasted beef tenderloin, salmon with shallot butter sauce, Portobello pasta and Dine's signature meatloaf with garlic mashed potatoes. The restaurant will also offer traditional breakfast dishes like made-to-order omelets, scrambled eggs, hash browns, bacon, sausage and brioche French toast. To finish, Mom can belly up to the dessert table and have her pick of homemade pastries like Dine's popular red velvet cupcakes.

Glen Prairie
$27 per adult, $12 for children ages 5-12; call (630) 613-1250 for reservations
This farm-focused restaurant will celebrate Mother's Day with an extensive brunch buffet featuring dishes like grilled vegetable salad, house-baked breakfast pastries, made-to-order omelets and a specialty Chef's station. The little ones will be pleased with kid-friendly items like pancakes, Amish chicken nuggets, mac 'n cheese, French bread pizza and fruit cups. And Mom will be delighted with the restaurant's specialty drink specials including the honeydew melon Motherly Love, the fruity Rainbow Sherbet and the decadent Chocolixir, $7-$9.

Arrowhead Restaurant and Bar
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $35 per adult, $15 per child ages 5-12
Suburban moms can dine with urban flair during Arrowhead's Mother's Day brunch. The restaurant's city-inspired menu will feature carving, omelet and seafood stations complete with traditional choices like leg of lamb, ham and roast beef.

Brasserie Jo
11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
The River North brasserie will offer a traditional French brunch selection with plenty of mom-friendly a la carte items. Highlights include shrimp bisque, crab cake Benedictine, Brie omelets, smoked pork chops and grilled salmon with watercress and radicchio salad, $6.95-$22.95. The restaurant will also offer complimentary entertainment and activities for the little ones, along with a special kids menu including pancakes with maple syrup and fresh fruit, scrambled eggs with peas and kids chicken, $7.95 each. Brasserie Jo's main dining room will open for dinner from 4-9 p.m.

Carnivale
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
If Mom is feeling adventurous, take her to Carnivale for Chef Mark Mendez's ethnic-fueled fare. Mendez will prepare unique dishes like asparagus empanadas with Parmesan cheese and roasted red peppers, organic eggs with chorizo and Manchego cheese, vanilla butter French toast with honey, and pineapple-coconut bread pudding with rum anglaise for dessert, $6-$10. Mom will also receive a $15 gift certificate for her next visit.

Koi and Chen's
If you're still feeling the blow from tax season, take Mom to Koi (or its sister restaurant, Chens), where she can eat for free from the restaurant's Chinese Plate menu. Of course, you should maybe get her flowers or a little something extra, as she'll probably figure out what you're up to. And don't worry, dads, Koi and Chens will offer you the same special treatment on Father's Day.

Duke's Alehouse and Kitchen
10:30 a.m.; $19.99 per person
It's Mom's day to indulge, and she'll get to do exactly that with Duke's all-you-can-eat brunch buffet. The special spread includes an egg station, fruit platters, veggie plates, assorted breads, cheese plates and plenty of traditional breakfast favorites. A mimosa bar will also be available, so Mom can work up the courage to sing on stage during the restaurant's annual Mother's Day karaoke event.

Durty Nellie's
10:30 a.m.; $15 per adult, $9 per child under 12
Durty Nellie's will offer a family-style prix-fixe brunch including eggs benedict, French toast, roasted pork loin, garlic mashed potatoes and a festive assortment of desserts. A la cart items will feature Nellie's burgers, pulled pork, fish 'n' chips and wings. Mom will also receive a complimentary mimosa.

Gioco
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Gioco will serve its annual Italian Mother's Day brunch featuring macadamia nut pancakes with maple syrup, morel frittatas with sweet peas, roasted pork paninis with Dijon and braised rabbit leg with prosciutto and polenta, $10-$17.

La Madia
In celebration of Mother's Day, La Madia will provide complimentary house-made chocolate truffles just for Mom, along with a $10 gift certificate for her next visit.

Tapas Valencia
10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; $29.95 per adult; $12.95 for children ages 6-12
The recently opened Tapas Valencia will serve a unique brunch buffet complete with a carving station, made-to-order omelets, homemade desserts and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages.

Ritz-Carlton Chicago
10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.; $95 per adult, $30 for children ages 5-12; call (312) 573-5003 for reservations (required)
Show Mom a little love and luxury at The Ritz-Carlton's Mother's Day brunch (in The Greenhouse and The Cafe). The menu will feature fresh stone crab claws, smoked salmon, artisan cheeses with rhubarb preserves, made-to-order sushi, brioche French toast with strawberry compote and marinated leg of lamb with lemon-apricot relish. Mom can also enjoy a dessert buffet that includes seasonal pastries like blackberry cheesecake, warm banana pudding, rustic apple galette and peach trifle, all highlighted by ice cream floats and a chocolate fountain. All moms will be eligible to win a deluxe gift basket from Water Tower Place, including a ladies watch from Tourneau, a Custo Barcelona dress, a designer handbag, a sterling silver and gold pearl ring, an assortment of upscale beauty products and a one-year Tea-Of-The Month Club membership from Teavana (total value of $3,000).

Enzo & Lucia Ristorante
11 a.m.-9 p.m.; call (847) 478-8825 for reservations
Head over to Long Grove this Mother's Day and let the husband-and-wife team behind Enzo & Lucia handle the cooking. The family-focused restaurant will offer both lunch and dinner, and will feature a number of vegetarian dishes, wheat pastas and gluten-free choices.

Shaw's Crab House
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Shaw's, in Chicago and Schaumburg, will treat Mom to fresh flowers, a $25 gift certificate and a traditional brunch buffet with all of her favorites. Highlights include an omelet and waffle station, a carving station featuring beef tenderloin and herb-roasted turkey and a cold seafood bar with sushi, oysters and Alaskan king crab. You and Mom will both appreciate Shaw's sweet table, complete with bite-size desserts like creme brulee, raspberry tartlets, key lime pie, chocolate cupcakes and assorted candies. A bloody mary and mimosa bar will also be available for an extra $5.

Short ribs from sola.

sola
Call (773) 327-3868 for reservations
Chef Carol Wallack is making it possible for you to pamper Mom this year with sola's seasonal fare and deluxe gift bags from Chicago's C.O. Bigelow (available to the first 100 moms), packed with beauty products. If you're dining during brunch, try the pineapple upside down French toast with mango curd, tropical fruits and creme anglaise. If dinner is more Mom's style, make sure someone at the table orders sola's famous braised short ribs.

La Tache
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; call (773) 334-7168 for reservations
Executive Chef Andrew Alcid will prepare a savory, French-American brunch, including asparagus salad, quiche Lorraine, brioche French toast, steak and eggs and seared salmon, $8-$15. The Restaurant at Conrad
Call (312) 377-0979 for reservations
Take Mom to the Conrad Chicago's signature restaurant to treat her to a brunch consisting of an appetizer buffet, a breakfast or brunch entree selection and a dessert table. Top it all off with a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice and a glass of sparkling wine, $42-$52. Heaven on Seven
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; call (630) 717-0777 for reservations
If you feel like dodging the city brunch crowd this Mother's Day, check out Naperville's Heaven on Seven. With scrumptious dishes like bananas foster French toast, crabcakes and poached eggs, Mom will be on cloud nine. Funk band Professor John will be on hand from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. to add a lively, rhythm-and-blues groove to the brunch experience.

Jack Binion's Steakhouse
10 a.m.-4 p.m.; call (866) 711-SHOE, ext. 7027 for reservations
Jack Binion's Steakhouse, located in the Horseshoe Casino, will help Mom get her game on with its hearty brunch menu. Highlights include eggs benedict with steak, French toast, roasted duck, prime rib and lobster diablo. Mom can also pick from a number of popular side dishes, like the colossal biscuit bowl with wild boar gravy. To finish, the restaurant will offer chocolate pecan bread pudding and fresh berry parfaits.

Sheffield's
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Two manicurists from Paint will be on hand (get it?) from 11 a.m. on, offering $10 manicures to interested moms, who will also receive a complimentary mimosa and flower. Everyone gets to enjoy brunch items like pulled pork hash and french toast. Va Pensiero
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (brunch); 4-8 p.m.(dinner)
Whether you want to celebrate early or late, this Evanston favorite has you covered with three-course brunch ($38) and four-course dinner ($42) menus. The Italian eggs benedict with mascarpone hollandaise sounds divine.

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Study Spaces

Tue, 05 May 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Stacy Warden

Students cram at Metropolis.

With final exams just around the corner, you'll need a place to stay alert while you work. These spots may not be as distraction-free as the local library, but they do offer plenty of space for books, laptops and sleep-deprived students.

Cafe Avanti
Cafe Avanti gets an A-plus for being at the top of its class in nearly all coffeehouse categories. Unlike those java shops that provide guests with a timed Wi-Fi card, internet access at this place is completely open and unlimited. That said, you're bound to see the same regular faces frequenting the place and holing up here for hours. But Cafe Avanti's friendly staff doesn't mind at all; in fact, they've grown quite fond of their hardworking patrons and treat them like old friends, striking up conversation the minute they walk through the door. In addition to stocking beans from Chicago's local Coffee and Tea Exchange, Cafe Avanti gets extra credit for its select choice of Bleeding Heart Bakery scones and teacakes. You'll also find a small menu of lunchtime favorites including sandwiches, salads and soups. During the warmer months, a spacious sidewalk cafe provides extra seating.

Dollop Coffee Co.
Despite its quiet Buena Park location, Dollop Coffee is anything but secret. And after waiting around for a table to clear, you'll certainly wish it was. Mismatched tables and chairs provide space for studying and quiet conversation, while a number of tattered sofas (which look as if they were found on the roadside) create an ideal spot for group meetings. A cooler stocked with bottled beverages and a pastry case full of Alliance Bakery cupcakes offer a quick sugar-jolt, and pack twice the punch when paired with one of Dollop's espresso-infused drinks. The shop swears by Metropolis coffee beans and also sells a few select blends by the pound. And if you're up for heading a little farther north, you can get your java straight from the source with our next pick.

Metropolis Coffee Co.
Located just two blocks east of the Granville Red Line station, Metropolis is always packed with commuters in need of caffeine. The place is also a favorite with nearby Loyola students, which often poses a challenge for seating; that's saying a lot for a shop that has three full-size sitting rooms. Pre-packaged sandwiches and salads offer a healthful pick-me-up, while pastries and sweet granola from Milk and Honey Cafe provide a temporary sugar-high (just the thing you'll need to plow through an evening of theory and criticism).

Bourgeois Pig
If the pretentious moniker hasn't already tipped you off to the intellectual crowd that hangs out here, the cafe's floor-to-ceiling book-lined walls should tell all. With its close proximity to DePaul, the multi-level space is nearly always packed with students and disheveled, elbow patch-clad professors. Your chances of scoring seating in The Pig's main room are slim, but a quick trip up a flight of creaking stairs will lead you to an unofficial study den, where the students look as if they've never seen daylight. Bourgeois Pig could be in the running for valedictorian if it weren't for the pay-as-you-go Wi-Fi. But until it's free, we'll forget that the economy is in a rut and continue to splurge on the delicious coffee drinks and sandwiches like the Catcher in the Rye (a Reuben).

Fixx Coffee Bar
It's a good thing that Fixx Coffee Bar isn't any closer to Bourgeois Pig, as the place would pose some serious competition. Appealing also to the DePaul demographic, Fixx offers a full menu of study essentials like free Wi-Fi, spacious tables and an abundance of outlets. And then there are the heavy, java-filled mugs. Fixx stocks beans from Chicago's local Coffee and Tea Exchange and always has a regular and flavored blend brewing. Next to Metropolis, its one of the largest coffee shops we've come across and almost always has an open table. The food here isn't anything to write home about, but plates filled with fresh veggies, pita and hummus are just enough brain food to keep you cranking out those research papers.

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Brain Food

Sat, 02 May 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Clifton Henri

Do your brain a favor with the Walnut Room's spinach salad.

With finals on the way, you need to be sure you're functioning at peak capacity. Here are a few foods to feed your brain?along with your belly?and some of the best places to find them:

Eggs at Lula Cafe
Eggs have gotten a bad rap over the past few decades for being artery-clogging cholesterol bombs. But the incredible, edible egg is a superfood, containing loads of beneficial fats, B vitamins and choline?a nutrient that transmits signals between nerves and muscles. Choline is also a vital component in the fatty cell membranes that make up the physical bulk of the brain.

So maybe we can thank the preponderance of stellar brunch spots all over town for making Chicagoans such a bright, responsive bunch. Fabulous benedicts and quiches and imaginative egg dishes grace plates from the Bongo Room to M. Henry to any one of the Orange branches, but the strada at Lula has my heart; it's elegant, fluffy and the perfect size. If you're looking for something a little heartier, the breakfast burrito is one of the best on the west side. Lula also offers organic, cage-free eggs for an additional charge.

Sushi from Tanoshii
Fish: It's the quintessential brain food?high in Omega-3 fatty acids, fish helps build gray matter and cell membranes. However, studies show that high cooking temperatures can compromise the health benefits of oils containing Omega-3s, so to get the biggest bang in the brain for your buck, do it raw. Salmon is considered the best (great news for us spicy sake maki aficionados) but if you find yourself at Sushi Mike's counter in Andersonville, be sure to try whatever is on special; it's sure to be the freshest, most inspired cut on the menu. Wise patrons keep their mitts off the soy sauce?smothering the chef's artistry in brine is a major faux pas at this establishment. Besides, the buttery play of avocado and salmon on your taste buds is an intellectual experience in its own right. Spinach salad at the Walnut Room
Vegetarians needn't despair: The one food higher in Omega-3 fatty acids than salmon (besides flax seeds, but that's for a different story) is the mighty walnut. This legendary restaurant in the Department Store Formerly Known as Marshall Field's serves the title ingredient in its signature spinach salad. The combo is a veritable brain feast; spinach is high in folic acid, which has been shown to improve memory and overall cognitive function as well as fight depression?which has an insidious way of creeping in as the days get shorter. And if you don't care for food with a face but do want to please the relatives, the historic Walnut Room provides enough elegant downtown distraction and familiar American fare to keep your visiting aunt from shooting disapproving glances at your meatless selection.

Coffee from Metropolis Coffee Co.
Despite my exhaustive, highly biased research, I found no scientific evidence that coffee does anything to boost brain functioning. The closest I came was one study that indicated there are two kinds of people: those who are dependent on caffeine to tweak their wits and those who are not. As a long-time member of the former camp I hereby denounce these findings as complete bunk. Anyone who's pulled an all-nighter will testify to the near-magical mind-enhancing powers of the bitter bean, particularly after a night of imbibing the harder stuff. One should also factor in the erudite atmosphere of the coffee shop itself; just walking into a laptop-and-textbook-laden joint like Metropolis?which draws scholars from both Loyola and Northwestern Universities?makes you feel a few ticks smarter.

In five short years Jeff and Tony Dreyfuss have turned their Edgewater roastery into a local empire. Independent coffee houses across the city carry Metropolis beans. Take one sip of Good Soldier Schweik's Ottoman Adventures blend and you'll understand why the father-son team landed Microroaster of the Year for 2007 in Roast Magazine. Brilliant!

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Take the Cake

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Misty Tosh; Mandy B's sweet cupcakes

"Oh, you don't have to get me anything, dear. Just seeing you is enough." Yeah right, Mom. Why is it that that they always lay the passive-aggressive guilt trip down just in time for Mother's Day?

When you need to show Mom some love, but she refuses to tell you what she wants, you can't go wrong with an impressive cake. While you might be tempted to try and bake it yourself, just remember the time when you tried to make Mom cupcakes back in grade school?when you learned that salt and sugar may look alike, but boy do they taste different. Doesn't Mom deserve better? How about one of these signature cakes from Chicago's best bakeries?

BomBon
Few things evoke homemade charm quite like some old-fashioned south-of-the-border desserts. If you don't happen to be a Mexican grandma yourself, finding the perfect tres leches cake can be a hassle. Lucky for you, Pilsen's BomBon offers a full menu of authentic (and tasty) tres leches cakes?from the delicate Amaretto, with light vanilla sponge cake, roasted almonds and a dash of amaretto liqueur, to the tropical rum-laced Acapulco, with a pina colada flavor and pineapple chunks. If you really want to impress Mom, go with the signature Bombon version: vanilla sponge cake soaked with condensed, evaporated and regular milks, topped with a dash of rum, sweet cream vanilla and a sprinkle of Mexican cinnamon. It's made daily in 6-inch or 9-inch versions, and larger cakes available with special order (from $30).

Sweet Mandy B's
Who says vanilla has to be dowdy? Mandy B's can be a little overwhelming; cupcakes beckon from every direction, in every conceivable flavor: carrot, banana, devil's food, red velvet. Yes, it takes some substantial willpower to make your lips say, "Vanilla, please," when so many tempting options lie in front of you, but trust us: Order the vanilla cake with plain-old vanilla frosting (from $8). The simple profile of the vanilla-vanilla cake showcases what we all already know: Sweet Mandy B's has some mean pastry chops. Moist, delicate and with just a hint of vanilla aroma, this cake is sweet without being too sugary. Who knew that simple vanilla could be such an indulgence?

Tipsycake
Remember the thrill of making Mom her Mother's Day present? How proud you were about the awkward crayon-drawn greeting cards and the clay vessel that you intended as a vase, but accidentally squashed and presented to your non-smoking mother as an ashtray. Get back in touch with that childhood creative streak at Humboldt Park's Tipsycake, where you can build Mom a custom cake. Start with basic flavors like chocolate or yellow, or go all out with decadent takes on devil's food and flourless chocolate. To really impress her, order up a rich red velvet with choice of frosting; Italian buttercream, ganache and a myriad of gluten-free, vegan varieties are available, but we recommend you go with the classic cream cheese. Cakes start at $30.

Eli's Cheesecake World and Cafe
There once was a time when cheesecake was just about the most indulgent dessert that regular folks could get their hands on. And then the "Golden Girls," with every episode showing the four women huddled around a cheesecake in the middle of the night, came along and ruined it for everyone; after all, feeling like Bea Arthur isn't exactly cause for celebration. Fortunately for Chicagoans, Eli's hawks cheesecakes that are so delicious, there's not a chance you'll be thinking about anything else. In fact, the only thing negative that can be said about an Eli's cheesecake is that it's virtually impossible to decide on which flavor to buy. Enter the Original Flavors Sampler ($40), a nine-inch saucer split into quarters. Chocolate-chip, retro-chic strawberry, candy-bar crunch and that perfect original come together for a gift that Mom won't refuse (and probably won't share, either).

Mom can't survive on cake alone! Read our guide to Mother's Day Dining to find a brunch or lunch that'll start her special day off right. And forget the flowers; get her a gift she'll really like.

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In the Raw

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

Eating in the raw doesn't exactly mean sashimi for the rest of your life. Raw vegan diets consist of plant-based foods that have not been cooked or heated above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Raw foodies swear by their diets, and doctors who advocate for raw food say that your body needs nothing more than plant-based, non-cooked food. Even Chicago's most famous chef, Charlie Trotter, will "cook" up a raw menu upon request. Our guide to raw eating in Chicago tells you where to get your livin' food fix.

Karyn's Raw
Karyn Calabrese's Fresh Corner Cafe makes live food even sexier than it already is. Start the day with an energizing Morning Cleanser, a combination of the guru's own superfood green meal powder, apple juice, the cleansing agent rejuvelac, banana, flax oil and lecithin. Karyn also serves sandwiches like the raw "BLT," which is best followed by a naturally sweetened carob oat cake. If you'd rather dine in, try the elegant raw food restaurant located next door. Many raw foodies say that once you start eating raw, you'll have a sudden urge to detox?one of Karyn's specialties. Check out her website for info on detoxing, yoga and all the health benefits of eating raw.

Chicago Diner
In addition to vegetarian and vegan entrees, this Boystown favorite also serves raw food. The selections vary, but you can bet raw nachos will be on the menu. These corn flax chips come topped with fresh carrots, beets, tomatoes, onions, portabellos, olives, sprouts, cashes "cheese," guac, "sour cream" and pico de gallo. The Diner recently served a raw bacon cheeseburger (a portabello-walnut patty served on onion-flax bread with all the fixins) and jicama "fries"; try it before this better-than-beef concoction disappears. If you want to hit your sweet tooth, ask about the raw dessert options.

Cousin's Incredible Vitality
Once upon a time, Mehmet Ak weighed 235 pounds and owned the popular Turkish restaurant, Cousin's. That was before he discovered raw food, which he says saved his life. After intensive training, he completely revamped his restaurant into one of the healthiest spots in Chicago. But he never gave up his Turkish roots: items on the menu include dolmas, falafel wraps and hummus, along with spiced up American favorites like "tacos," "fakin' bacon poppers" and flax seed pizza. If you're ready to take the next step, try hot yoga classes next door at Awakened Lotus Yoga Center, or cleanse your body completely with Ak's transformative detox class.

Charlie Trotter's
If you're looking for a raw Trotter experience minus the cooked stuff, call ahead for the seasonal seven-course tasting menu. A few items on the current menu include arugula and oyster plant with concord grape vinaigrette, Asian pear with chestnut and chervil, parsnip spaghetti with savoy cabbage and sultana and a fudge brownie with walnuts and vanilla ice cream, among others. And for a bit of extra dough, you'll get a non-alcoholic beverage to go with your uber-healthy dinner.

Borrowed Earth Cafe
Danny and Kathy Living were already vegan when they tried going raw for the first few days after a month-long detox. They were so excited about the feeling of well-being that they decided to keep it up. After joining a raw food meet-up group in the west suburbs, the health-conscious couple discovered The Secret, which helped them envision their own raw cafe. Well guess what? It happened. Borrowed Earth Cafe defies American eating conventions, and even standard business hours. The cafe is open Monday 3:57?9:03 p.m., and Tuesday?Saturday from 10:57 a.m.?9:03 p.m. And the menu features favorites from multiple cultures. The nori rolls come with avocado, cilantro and jicama "rice" wrapped in raw nori, and entrees like the Earth Sampler are loaded with kebab, falafel, stuffed mushroom, dolmas and side salads. Worth the trip.

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Take Me Out to Eat Before the Ballgame

Sat, 11 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Clifton Henri

Another baseball season is upon us, and it couldn't come a second sooner. If you root for the North Side, you're no doubt looking to get out to as many Cubs games as possible. But a fan can't live on peanuts and Cracker Jack (or even ballpark nachos) alone. With that in mind, here are some places that go above and beyond the normal ballpark grub and Wrigleyville bar fare ? and a few cheapie food options, so you'll have enough scratch left over for a $6 Old Style at the game.

Better than ballpark food:

Tapas at Twist
A touch of class mixed in with the dirty watering holes around Wrigley, Twist serves up the usual Spanish hot and cold small plates but takes it a step further with its international fusion dishes. Try the jalapeno gnocchi, or if you want something a little more substantial, go with the twisted paella, topped with chicken and seafood. A word of warning: The small dining space gets crowded and it doesn't take reservations, so plan ahead. But summertime brings additional seating in the patio out front, and you could do much worse than sipping sangria on a warm game night while you wait for a table ? and a Cubs rally.

Smoked duck wings at Risque Cafe
The rest of the menu at this BBQ joint just south down Clark is nothing to write home about, but oh those wings. They're fall-off-the-bone succulent, and would contend for the title of "best duck wings in the city," if there were such a category. If you're going to the game with friends, skip the entrees and order a pound of wings for the table. Wash 'em down with one of Risque's nearly 200 microbrews from all around the country?including Eureka, California's Lost Coast 8-Ball Stout topped with ice cream for those sunny summer days?and you've got a pretty good start (or end) to your game day.

The Holy Cow! Burger Bar at Harry Caray's Tavern
The newest Harry Caray's locale, which took over the former Hi-Tops space, offers so many different takes on the standard patty, that you can build one grand slam of a sandwich. In addition to the traditional sirloin, you can order burgers made of Wagyu Beef (from Australia), lamb, turkey, venison, black beans or Tallgrass Beef. You get a multitude of choices and extras, like eight cheeses, ranging from goat to fresh mozzarella; a choice of preparations, including Cajun-style; Giardinera, sauteed mushrooms or fired onions; and five different buns. And the location on Sheffield means you're practically in the park when you're done. And if you want to get even closer, check out Harry Caray's offshoot patio bar/resto Captain Morgan Club, which is actually adjacent to the park.

On the cheap:

Free hot dog at Full Shilling
You can't get any cheaper than free, and that's how the Shilling attracts hordes of hungry penny-pinchers on game days. Stop by the sports bar just north of the park and get a free hot dog with a beer purchase an hour before or after the game. We know what you're thinking: They're probably the reject franks from last year's playoff run. But the dogs are surprisingly fresh and filling, and come with all the fixings. You could also do a lot worse than the $6 "big ass" 24-ounce cans of Bud, Miller and PBR.

Burger and fries for $6 at Merkle's Bar and Grill
Stop in to this Clark Street favorite just south of the park before or during any Cubs game and get a half-pound burger and order of fries for just $6.

Tortas at El Burrito Mexicano
If you've been heading west every time you exit the Addison Red Line stop, you've been missing out. Just east of the station (and the ballpark) is this quaint little burrito joint?the only one in the area, really? that pumps out cheap and tasty Mexican food to those in the know. Watch your food made right in front of you, or wait for it outside (it can get kinda sweaty inside). The burritos are good, but the $3.99 tortas (basically a burrito in sandwich form) are even better.

More of a White Sox fan? Check out these great places to watch the South Siders battle all season.

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Degeneration of Swine

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Clifton Henri

Not one to argue with an opportunity to gorge myself on swine, I never really questioned the whole "eat ham on Easter" tradition. That is, until I was the one that had to lug that hog's ass around the kitchen, trying to make heads or curly-tails out of how to cook the damn thing. Ham will do just fine for a family gathering, when someone else is doing the heavy lifting, but Chicago is rife with tasty pork alternatives. This year, I've decided to explore other parts of the pig.

Pulled pork at Smoque BBQ
Ham, like loin, was once considered high-brow meat; it's where the term "high on the hog" came from. But when it comes to good Southern eats, the cheap cuts have always prevailed. Take for example, Boston Butt, which is the go-to cut for authentic barbeque.

Smoque, a restaurant built on the concept of low-and-slow cooking, smokes its pork over applewood for 12 hours before plucking it by hand. The result? Pure pork bliss. Ideal in the sandwich ($5.95, $7.95 with sides), where the charred outside pieces mingle with the juicy insides in an exquisitely proportioned pile of BBQ, this meat is so good you might not even put the side of barbeque sauce to use. Ordering up the platter version allows you to better appreciate the tinge of peppery vinegar that keeps the pork's sweet, smoky flavor in check.

Pork belly sandwich at Blackbird
We all know about the magic of bacon, but still so many of us wrinkle our noses at the notion of noshing on pork belly. Even the squeamish should be able to appreciate that this full-flavored, fatty cut is?for all purposes?just a slab of unsliced bacon.

Chef Paul Kahan has long been one of Chicago's most visionary pork innovators. Newbies should go for the organic pork-belly sandwich ($13). Served with a spicy cabbage slaw, a touch of dijonnaise and side of garlic frites, this impossibly tender sammy packs a flavor that ham can't touch. Pork bellies have reached new popularity recently, with ambitious chefs trying to up the gourmet factor with fancy frills. But Kahan knows that there's still something so quintessentially blue-collar about the pork-belly?something that begs for it to come served on bread.

Lechon jibarito at Borinquen Restaurant
Nothing says "celebration" quite like heaving a pig onto a spit and lighting a fire. Few pork dishes can hold a candle to that old-fashioned charcoal-roasted flavor that comes from it, and Chicagoans are lucky to be surrounded by Cuban, Filipino and Puerto Rican eateries that serve up lechon, a crackling, flavorful meat that's heavy on the fat and has a depth of flavor unmatched by even the best cuts of ham.

It's tempting to just pile a roasted pig's tender meat high on a plate and go to town, but Borinquen had a better idea: It claims to have invented the jibarito ($6.95). This untidy meal features smoky piles of lechon between two garlicky fried plantains. Slippery, sloppy and dripping with fatty juices, it's basically a heart attack on a banana.

Honey jalapeno pork chops at Cafe 28
Once a mainstay on American dinner tables, pork chops now conjure up visions of clogged arteries and love-handles, and the embarrassment of gnawing on a bone in front of strangers sway many diners toward more refined entrees.

But Cafe 28's honey jalapeno pork chops ($19.50) are worth the hassle. Two gargantuan chops of pork are marinated in honey and jalapeno sauce, grilled, baked and served over a generous pillow of honey-mashed sweet potatoes. The high fat content in the chops brings out that salty flavor that pork-fiends crave; the honey glaze makes for a sweet counterbalance and the jalape�o adds a Cuban kick.

Dye-ing for more Easter fun?

Easter Brunches
Ethnic Easter Eats
Easter Egg Hunts
Easter Dessert Recipes

Check out more from Centerstage's 2009 Chicago Easter Guide.

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Easter Brunches

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel

Four Seasons Hotel offers a sweet ending to Easter brunch with its strawberry-rhubarb panna cotta.

After 40-days of self-restraint, you've got a right to overindulge. Whether it's chocolate, booze or fried fare you're craving, these restaurants have just the thing to soothe your sacrificial woes on Easter Sunday.

Try green eggs and lamb at sola
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
In addition to sola's regular weekend brunch menu, guest can indulge in Easter specials like green eggs and lamb, lobster and asparagus quiche. Reservations can be made at (773) 327-3868.

Satisfy your sweet-tooth at David Burke's Primehouse
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $48 per person, $20 for children 12 and under
Easter brunch at David Burke's Primehouse means plenty of sweet treats like "killer" French toast muffins, cans of creme brulee and whimsical molten chocolate eggs. Of course, there's plenty of savory stuff, too, like lobster scrambled eggs, veal meatballs, grilled dry-aged lamb chops and peppered dry-aged beef brisket. The family-style meal also includes all-you-can drink champagne, mimosas, boody marys and screwdrivers for just $10. David Burke's Primehouse will continue its regular Sunday supper from 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Share small plates at Tapas Valencia
10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; $29.95 per person, $12.95 for children ages 6-12
This recently opened restaurant will offer a brunch buffet featuring made-to-order omelets, prime rib, seasonal cocktails and a selection of homemade desserts.

Get back to basics at Between Boutique Cafe and Lounge
April 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Between will serve its newly launched Back-to-Basics Sunday Brunch featuring sustainable ingredients and organic produce in items like duck confit eggs benedict, French Toast (brown sugar Texas toast, cinnamon maple syrup, vanilla whipped cream), ginger pancakes and apple bread pudding.

Dine in luxury at Sixteen
10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; $115 per person; $25 for children under 8
Sixteen, located in the Trump Hotel, will offer plenty of Easter festivities for the whole family. Children will be greeted by the Easter bunny and receive their own basket to fill with eggs and homemade candy during scheduled Easter egg hunts at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. As for food, Executive Chef Frank Brunacci will offer made-to-order sushi, omelets, salad, carving and children's stations. Guests can also pick from specialty items like artichoke and bacon soup, seared sea bass, veal loin with sweet Vidalia onion jam and soba noodle salad with poached salmon. To finish, each family will receive a house-made chocolate bunny from Pastry Chef Hichem Lahreche. Sixteen will also be open for dinner on Easter evening from 6-9:30 p.m. Reservations can be made at (312) 588-8030.

Have a side of scenic views at Fulton's on the River
10 a.m.-7 p.m.; $42.95 per person, $15.95 for children ages 7-12
Next to its complimentary scenic views, Fulton?s on the River will offer a variety of specialty chef's tables in honor of Easter. To start, guests can choose from house made soups like clam and grilled corn chowder, carving stations with garlic-studded beef and pineapple-glazed ham and an omelet station featuring fresh breads, cheeses and traditional breakfast sides (read: hash browns and veggies). Fulton's will also offer a pasta station with classic pappardelle and penne dishes, a crab cake station with jumbo lump cakes and a decadent dessert selection including the restaurant's award-winning banana cream pie. Fulton's "Kids' Corner" will keep the little ones pleased with simple choices like chicken tenders, pizza and mac n' cheese.

Keep it classic at Bistro 110
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Bistro 110 will offer Easter classics like shrimp cocktail, scrambled eggs with andouille sausage and lamb stew with veggies and a pastry top. For dessert, the restaurant will serve up festive Easter sundaes. Bistro 110's regular brunch menu will also be available.

Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch at Dunlays on Clark
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
In addition to its regular menu, Dunlays will offer traditional Easter brunch items including French toast, fruit pancakes, fried egg sandwiches, Wrightwood salads and triple-decker BLTs, among others. Children can order from a list of special mini-meals, including one pancake, single-order eggs and English muffins. Beginning at 2 p.m., the restaurant will offer an Easter egg hunt for the little ones, complete with candy-filled eggs, toys and trinkets.

Have an Asian-inspired Easter at Le Colonial
11 a.m.-3 p.m; $22
Le Colonial Executive Chef Chan Le will offer a non-traditional three-course prix-fixe menu for those looking to branch out this Easter. Highlights include banh coun (steamed Vietnamese chicken ravioli with mushrooms and chili-lime garlic sauce), goi bun so (grilled sea scallop salad with garlic noodles and lime vinaigrette) and mi xao don chay (stir-fried mixed vegetables and tofu with crispy egg noodles in a light oyster sauce). Call (312) 255-0088 for reservations.

Feast on Lamb at Arrowhead
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; $35 Adults and $15 Children ages 5-12
Chef Alan will feature unique culinary creations like a carving station featuring leg of lamb, ham and roast beef. Guests can also choose from made-to-order options at Arrowhead's omelet or seafood stations.

Have a family-style brunch at Birch River Grill
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $32.95 per person, $14.95 for children 12 and under
The warm, rustic atmosphere at Birch River provides the perfect setting for a family-style Easter brunch. The restaurant's holiday buffet will feature dishes like smoked king salmon and trout, fresh shucked oysters, herb-roasted prime rib, maple-roasted turkey breast and three-cheese au gratin potatoes. Desserts include an assortment of mini fruit tarts, tortes, cakes and Birch River Grille's signature carrot cake.

Don't skip the red velvet cupcakes at Dine
9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; $39 per person, $15 for children 12 and under; free for children under 5
Dine's Easter buffet will feature carved honey ham, made-to-order omelets and a ceviche bar with shrimp, tuna and vegetarian offerings. The restaurant will also offer a selection of festive desserts including red velvet cupcakes, petite pastries, gourmet cookies, brownies and tortes. Mimosas and sparkling sparkling cider will be available for $5.

Feast like a farmer at Glen Prairie
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $27 per person; $12 for children 12 and under, free for children under 4
If it's farm fresh foods you seek on Easter, head over to Glen Prairie for plenty of home-style favorites. Highlights include asparagus salad, bagels and artisan rolls, made-to-order omelets, eggs benedict, rustic skillet potatoes and glazed ham. Glen Prairie will also offer a "kid's corner" with silver dollar pancakes, Amish chicken nuggets, mac n' cheese, French bread pizzas and fruit cups.

Try a little bit of everything at Karma
10 a.m.-4 p.m.; $26.95 per person, $12.95 for children
This suburban spot is pulling out all the stops for its Easter brunch buffet. First, there's the salad station, complete with mixed greens and pasta salads, followed by the seafood station, where you'll find citrus-poached King salmon, and shrimp with plum tomato and horseradish sauce. Next up is the omelet station with all the proper fixin's including chives, pepper-cured bacon and country sausage links. Of course, you could skip all that and head straight for the carving station stacked with herb- and garlic-crusted prime rib and oven-roasted turkey breast. Whichever you choose, be sure to save room for Karma's selection of mini French pastries, fresh tortes and pies.

Indulge in endless options at Maxwell's at The Club
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $45 per person, $15 for children 10 and under
If you're really looking to indulge after all that fasting, head to Maxwell's at the Club, where you'll find an overwhelmingly large Easter buffet. The options are quite literally endless, with choices like shrimp cocktail, poached salmon with mustard sauce, curried chicken salad with apples, Applewood-smoked bacon and sausage, toasted cinnamon brioche and three-cheese tortellini with spicy tomato sauce. And that's not even including the spread of seasonal fruits, berries and pastries. Oh, and did we mention the omelet and waffle bar, or the carving station with roast prime rib, lamb and honey-glazed spiral ham?

Take a tropical escape at Trader Vic's
10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; $37.95; $20 for children ages 5-12, free for children 4 and under
The infamous mai tai lounge and restaurant, located in Chicago's Gold Coast, will offer a lineup of Easter favorites in addition to its signature menu. The holiday fare will include a traditional carving station, an omelet station and a display of tropical fruit. Keeping in line with Trader Vic's festive atmosphere, each guest will also enjoy island retro music and a complimentary mai tai or mimosa. Reservations can be made at (312) 642-6500.

Enjoy a live piano performance at Chez Colette
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; $48 per person, $24 for children 12 and under, children under age 6 eat free
Executive Chef Christian Gaborit will prepare an Easter brunch, complete with a special performance by pianist John O'Keefe. Menu highlights include a gourmet crepe bar, Montana smoked trout, eggs benedict, braised ham with honey maple sauce and an assortment of French cheeses. The little ones can take advantage of a special children's buffet. Each meal includes one complimentary glass of champagne. Reservations should be made at (847) 678-4488, ext. 6951.

Spend the weekend at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
11 a.m.; $105 per person; $25 for children ages 5-12
Chicago's popular Four Seasons Hotel is offering numerous Easter festivities for families this year. Beginning at 3 p.m. on Friday, April 10, the little ones can enjoy Storytelling Teas, featuring storyteller Betsy Means and "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" in the hotel's State Room (located on the 8th floor), $55. The weekend will commence on Sunday, April 12 with a 10 a.m. puppet performance in the LaSalle Room and a traditional Easter brunch in the Seasons Restaurant and Lounge. Menu highlights include Spring lamb with mint pesto, glazed ham with honey and made-to-order omelets and crepes. For reservations, call (312) 649-2349.

Eat like a Frenchman at Le Titi de Paris
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $38 per person, children's menus start at $15
Chefs Michael and Susan Maddox have crafted a special Easter prix-fixe menu featuring upscale appetizers like chilled spring rolls with Maine lobster and warm seafood crepes with Black Tiger shrimp and sea scallops. Easter entrees offer eight different choices including slow braised lamb shank, grilled Alaskan halibut, roasted pork tenderloin and quiche Lorraine. For dessert, you can have your pick of Chef Michael's "symphony of chocolate," the Tahitian scented creme brulee, classic Meyer lemon tart or a trio of apricot, raspberry and coconut sorbets. Call (847) 506-0222 for reservations.

Save room for dessert at one sixtyblue
11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; $35 per person
This family-friendly restaurant will keep the kids entertained with its interactive waffle station, featuring Belgian waffles ready to decorate with toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, chocolate sauce and sprinkles. Meanwhile, sophisticated palates will enjoy Easter-inspired dishes like tropical fruit salad with angel food croutons, slow-cooked pork belly with buttermilk biscuits and spicy sausage gravy, omelets with king crab and farfalle pasta with morels. For dessert, pastry chef Stephanie Prida will whip a selection of seasonal desserts, including her popular chocolate panna cotta with chocolate-peanut butter fudge.

Try something new at Markethouse
$45 per person, half-price for children 12 and under
The recently opened MarketHouse Restaurant, located on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, will celebrate its first Easter brunch with favorites like eggs benedict and made-to-order omelets. Additionally, the adjacent Doubletree Hotel will offer overnight accommodations and Sunday brunch for two, rates start at $129.

Dine like a diva at Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $29.95
Kit Kat's annual Easter brunch will feature free-flowing mimosas, a four-course menu by Executive Chef Matt Stovey and performances by the legendary Kit Kat Diva, Madame X. Menu highlights include family-style beignets, baked oatmeal with strawberry preserves, slow-roasted corned beef hash, grilled petite sirloin steak and a mini cupcake duo for dessert.

Say hello to Spring at Va Pensiero
10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. brunch, 4-8 p.m. dinner; $38-$42
Chef and Owner Jeff Muldrow will feature elegant brunch dishes like housemade chicken liver pate with crisp flat bread, pancetta risotto with heirloom tomatoes, grilled lamb loin and cinnamon raisin bread French toast with orange-honey mascarpone maple syrup. Va Pensiero's Easter dinner makes room for even more indulgent choices, including tagliatelle with exotic mushrooms, rosemary pappardelle with pancetta and saffron couscous salad with lemon vinaigrette. Additionally, Muldrow will offer a special children's menu featuring scaled-down portions of seasonal favorites, $15-$18.

Have a moveable feast aboard the Spirit of Chicago
12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m.; $49.50 per person, half-price for children ages 3-11
Celebrate Spring with a midday cruise and Easter brunch buffet on the Spirit of Chicago. Along with scenic skyline views, guests will enjoy live entertainment, complimentary goodie bags for children and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny. Reservations are required and can be made at (866) 211-3804 or here.

Celebrate Easter with a jaunt on Odyssey Cruises
11 a.m.-2 p.m.; $67.90 per person, half price for children ages 3-11
The Odyssey will offer a gourmet Easter brunch buffet, live entertainment, appearances from the Easter Bunny, goodie bags for the little ones and complimentary champagne for Mom and Dad. Reservations are required and can be made at (888) 957-2322 or here.

Hop over to Ann Sather (Belmont)
11 a.m.-4 p.m.; $17.95 for adults, $10.95 for children 12 and under
The Swedish restaurant will serve a selection of homestyle Easter dinners in place of its regular menu on Sunday, April 12. The special menu will feature traditional Easter items like roasted leg of lamb with mint jelly and mashed potatoes, baked ham with fruit glaze and sweet potatoes, broiled salmon with mustard dill sauce, roasted turkey with celery-sage stuffing, beef tenderloin with grilled mushrooms and fresh spinach lasagna. Each meal also includes a selection of Ann Sather's homemade breads, vegetable soup, fresh asparagus and apple or cherry pie for dessert. Additionally, a limited menu of popular breakfast items (including those famous cinnamon rolls, we hope) will be available throughout the day beginning at 7 a.m.

Meet the bunny at Petterino's Easter Brunch
11 a.m.-2 p.m.; $29.95 for adults, $12.95 for children 12 and under
Located in the heart of Chicago's theater district, Petterino's will dazzle guests with a special prix-fixe Easter brunch menu from executive chef Francis Brennan. To start, sip on a champagne bellini or mimosa and then choose from a variety of carvery items including ham, lamb or prime rib. Better yet, try something breakfast-inspired from the Hen House like the fresh lump-crab omelet, classic eggs benedict or an egg white and vegetable omelet with fresh fruit and tomato salsa. Petterino's will also offer special brunch items just for the little ones, featuring an Easter bunny breakfast with egg-shaped pancakes, fruit and bunny-shaped bacon, complete with a tableside visit from the Easter bunny himself.

Listen to live jazz at Old Town Brasserie
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $29 per person
Old Town Brasserie's Easter brunch couldn't be any classier with its mix of live jazz and upscale cuisine from executive chef Andy Motto. The three-course prix-fixe menu will feature dishes like roasted beet and goat cheese salad, grilled salmon, herb-roasted chicken and a duo of roasted lamb leg and rack. Dessert poses an even bigger challenge with selections like pistachio souffle with white chocolate-orange sauce, dark chocolate terine with passion fruit mousse and an assortment of sorbets.

Try an Easter-inspired empanada at Carnivale
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Carnivale's Easter brunch menu will feature festive dishes like asparagus and Parmesan-stuffed empanadas, huevos en cazuela with eggs, chorizo and manchego cheese, French toast with vanilla butter, honey and fresh fruit and pineapple-coconut bread pudding with rum anglaise for dessert. Prices range from $6-$10, Carnivale's regular menu will be available from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Brunch with the bunny at The Restaurant at Conrad
11 a.m.-3 p.m.; $42-$52 for adults, $17.50 for children 12 and under, children 4 and under eat free
The Restaurant at Conrad will celebrate Easter with a special guest appearance by the Easter Bunny during brunch. The special menu will include an appetizer buffet, one entr�e selection of breakfast or brunch, a dessert table and a glass of champagne and fresh-squeezed orange juice.

Eat to your heart's content at O'Donovan's
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $15.95 for adults, $6.95 for children ages 3-11
Head over to this North Center pub for an all-you-can-eat Easter brunch buffet. Highlights include tilapia with roasted shiitake mushrooms, assorted mini-quiches (mushroom and gorgonzola, grilled veggies with Parmesan cheese, four-cheese and smoked bacon) and scrambled eggs with bacon and cheddar cheese in potato baskets. Additionally, O'Donovan's will feature its regular Sunday buffet items like made-to-order omelets, a waffle station, biscuits and gravy, French toast, carved meats and an assortment of muffins and pastries. And don't forget to wash it all down with a jumbo screwdriver or a "white trash" mimosa.

Say Oui Oui to Easter brunch at Brasserie Jo
11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Head over to Brasserie Jo for a traditional French brunch this Easter. The festive menu includes dishes like cream of asparagus soup, French-style brie omelets, brioche crab cakes, smoked pork chops, grilled salmon and bananas foster French toast; prices range from $6.95-$21.95. The restaurant will also offer a special kids menu, featuring pancakes with maple syrup and whipped cream, scrambled eggs with peas and "kids" chicken, $7.95 each. The little ones can also enjoy games, crafts and other kid-friendly activities in the restaurant's salon. Brasserie Jo's main dining room will be open for dinner service from 4-9 p.m.

Brush up on your Italian at Gioco
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Skip the traditional ham and mashed potatoes this year and try something a little more exotic with Gioco's Italian Easter brunch. The restaurant's holiday menu will include sweet breakfast selections like macadamia nut pancakes with orange zest and morel frittatas with sweet peas, and savory lunch options like roasted pork paninis with spicy salami and braised rabbit leg with procuitto and polenta. Prices range from $10-$17. Gioco will be closed for dinner.

Brush up on your buffet etiquette at Shaw's Crab House (both locations)
10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $49.99 for adults, $19.99 children
Shaw's Chicago and Schaumburg locations both offer lavish spreads of food on Easter Sunday, from the make-your-own omelet and waffle station to the cold seafood bar featuring sushi, oysters and Alaskan king crab bites. Ever looked at a dessert menu and wanted a little bit of everything? The Sweet table allows you to do just that, with bite-size portions of all the classics. If you're really looking to celebrate, add an extra $5 for the bloody mary and mimosa bars.

Get tipsy on Bunny-Tinis at The Leg Room
7 p.m.; $10 for men, ladies get in free
Once you've had your fill of meat and potatoes, head over to The Leg Room's Babes & Bunnies Martini Mixer. The charitable event, held in honor of the Red Door Animal Shelter, will feature a signature Bunny-Tini cocktail, a charity raffle and photo ops with a large bunny. You'll also have a chance to win prizes including Cubs and Sox tickets, a beer pong table, an adult gift basket from Lover's Playground, numerous gift certificates and DVDs. In addition to the signature drink, The Leg Room will offer a number of half-price drinks and liquor bottles.

Dye-ing for more Easter fun?

Ethnic Easter Eats
Ham Alternatives
Easter Egg Hunts
Easter Dessert Recipes

Check out more from Centerstage's 2009 Chicago Easter Guide.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

Where to Shop for Passover Seder

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of Illinois Nut & Candy

You'll do more than clean your plate if you use one of these at your seder.

It's crunch-time. Passover is just days away, and you're anxiously waiting to play gracious host to the entire family. You've stocked up on matzo, you've memorized your bubbe's brisket recipe, you've busted out the good china and you've even gone through the trouble of shining each delicate piece. In your intoxicating cleaning frenzy, you realize you forgot a couple of key ingredients (not to mention that you already drank most of that wine you bought specifically for seder). Luckily, these nearby shops have plenty of Passover goods to save your tokhes.

Stock up on the wine at Hungarian Kosher Foods
You'll be hard-pressed to find a better selection of kosher wines anywhere in the nation. This 25,000 square-foot specialty market does, after all, stock the largest inventory of the stuff (bottles can also be purchased online at kosher.wine.com). If you're strapped for time, Hungarian Kosher Foods also serves as a great one-stop shop with its abundance of kosher meats, fish, produce, pastries and candies. But let's get back to the wine; in honor of Passover, the shop is offering a huge sale on over 60 bottles (some even as low as $4.99) from a wide spectrum of regions including Israel, Chile, France, Spain, Hungary, Argentina, California, Australia and New York.

Grab a quick bite at Good Morgan Fish
This kosher fish market, located in Rogers Park, has been a staple in Chicago's Jewish community for more than 40 years (it wasn't always Good Morgan, but it was always about fish). The popular pick here is whitefish, which is offered in a variety of preparations including grilled, fried and fresh. You'll also find plenty of trout, chub, cod, salmon and snapper. Good Morgan also offers a selection of kosher soups, sandwiches and salads, so you can grab a quick bite during your Passover shopping spree.

Find the best brisket at Ebner's Kosher Meat Market
Also located in Rogers Park is Ebner's Kosher Meat Market. The place has been around since 1966, which may explain why most of the customers here are on a first-name basis with Ebner's staff. But don't let the old timers throw you off, newcomers are just as welcome and it won't take long for the jovial employees to warm up. In fact, buying meat from Ebner's may just be a guise for some quality socializing, though the product is just as good as its suppliers, so stock up before you get too carried away in conversation.

Don't skip out on the sweet stuff at Illinois Nut & Candy
If Hungarian Kosher Foods is the Midwest's Mecca for wine, then Illinois Nut & Candy is its kosher-candy counterpart. The shop offers over 45 different varieties of Passover candy samplers, including chocolates, mint bark, chocolate rum raisins, peppermint patties and ju ju fruits. If you're looking for something truly unique, check out the "perfect Passover plate" (a large round disc designed to look like a traditional Passover plate), made entirely of chocolate. The staff recommends using it as a sweet centerpiece, in which case, we recommend getting two (trust us, the temptation is enough to make you meshuge). Note: Illinois Nut & Candy will be closed April 8-18 in honor of the holiday, so get there soon.

photo: courtesy of Angel Gardens

Find a floral centerpiece at Angel Gardens Florist
If you'd rather play it safe and not be at risk of devouring your own centerpiece, we recommend a good old-fashioned floral arrangement. This place specializes in bouquets for just about every occasion you can possibly fathom, and Passover is right at the top of that list. Angel Gardens traditional arrangements include everything from a vibrant yellow Sunshine Express bouquet neatly displayed in a simple clear vase, to the more colorful (think pinks, lavenders and whites) Touch of Butterflies, thoughtfully bunched in a rustic wicker basket. Simple potted displays like the White Garden (which, incidentally, is mostly green) make for humble centerpieces, while more extravagant arrangements like the Incredible Iris (standing firmly in a clear tall vase) are sure to spark a reaction from your guests (though probably not as much as a chocolate plate would).

Take it easy with Fox & Obel's catering menu
Fox & Obel's Passover catering menu will be available from April 6-12 and includes traditional dinner choices like matzo ball soup ($8 per quart) and gefilte fish with fresh beet and horseradish puree ($28 per half-dozen). Desserts offer plenty of Passover-friendly sweets like flourless chocolate cake with bittersweet chocolate glaze ($20 serves 8-10) and chocolate-dipped strawberries ($18 per half-dozen). Complete Passover dinners ($200 for 6, $400 for 12) including matzo ball soup, gefilte fish, apple cider-braised beef brisket, whole rotisserie chicken, charoset, apple-walnut matzo kugel and steamed asparagus with lemon zest and pine nuts will also be available. Ritual seder plates (included in the complete dinner) with maror (grated fresh horseradish), chazeret (lettuce) charoset (made with honey, apples, walnuts, raisins and red wine), karpas (parsley), z'roa (roasted lamb shank bone) and beitzah (hardboiled egg) can be purchased a la carte for $12.

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Ethnic Easter Eats

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of Bridget Montgomery

We make a lot of hullabaloo over Christmas here in the states. But in many parts of Europe, Easter is the most anticipated Christian holiday?a celebration of spring and rebirth marked by feasts of foods as drenched in symbolism as they are in frosting. Whether you're in Greektown or Little Italy, during Holy Week you'll find some native version of sweet leavened bread: the staff of life. Here are a few bakeries cooking up traditional Easter treats to help you break fast like they do back in the old country.

Tsoureki and koulourakia from Artopolis Bakery Cafe
Sweet, yeasty loaves of Greek tsoureki are braided around hard-boiled eggs?dyed crimson on Holy Thursday to signify the blood of Christ?and eaten on Easter Sunday to break the Lenten fast. Artopolis Bakery, a bastion of Greek tradition, offers two sizes of the strikingly attractive bread. Pick up the bigger loaf and partake in another Greek tradition: cracking your egg against a friend's. The person holding the un-cracked egg enjoys good luck for the rest of the year.

Pick up a dozen koulourakia for dessert to set, as Artopolis GM Maria Melidis puts it, a "proper Easter table." The little butter cookies are baked year-round, but get dressed up in twists and braids for the holiday, and make the perfect complement to an after-dinner Greek coffee.

Hot cross buns from Bennison's Bakery
Hot cross buns are an English tradition, baked and immediately consumed on Good Friday. Elizabeth I can be credited with giving the buns special Easter significance when, in 1592, she banned them except on religious holidays and special occasions. The yeasty buns, spiced with cloves, cinnamon and allspice and topped with a cross, were considered good-luck charms?hung from rafters to ward off fires, kept aboard boats to prevent shipwrecks, even buried in stacks of corn to scare away pests.

photo: courtesy of Bridget Montgomery

Legend has it that hot cross buns baked on Good Friday never get moldy, but you won't have the will to test the theory if you pick up Bennison's version: a spicy, sticky delight that doesn?t skimp on the icing. Traditionally, the buns are baked from simple, yeasty dough and sweetened with dried currants, but the award-winning bakers here also offer jazzed-up versions christened with custard, apple, raspberry or cherry jelly.

Pastiera from Original Ferrara Bakery
The origins of pastiera are a matter of debate; did the egg-laden cake start as a pre-Christian rite of spring, offered to Ceres by a pagan priestess? Or was it first baked at the behest of a Neapolitan nun to capture the essence of Easter in its citrus fragrance? Regardless of which story you prefer, this rich egg-and-ricotta dessert is now an Easter tradition in Naples.

Slow-cooked, fermented grains and a balance of aromatic spices mark an authentic pastiera. It's a labor-intensive recipe, made with love and guarded jealously by housewives throughout Naples. Fortunately, you need only go as far as Little Italy to taste the Ferrara family's version of this creamy, cheesecake-y delicacy.

Makowiec and paczki from Pasieka Bakery
Although makowiec is commonly served alongside the Polish sausages and sugar lamb at Easter dinner, this sweet roll isn't strictly a holiday dish. Lucky for us, it's available at Pasieka Bakery year-round. The dense loaf is made from rich sour-cream-and-egg dough, rolled with a crumbly filling of poppy seeds, raisins and nuts and doused in lemon icing. Pasieka displays rows of handsome makowiec in its front window. If your Polish is rusty, you may have to do some pointing to complete your purchase; the authenticity of the baked goods here is without question.

And if you didn't get your paczki on Fat Tuesday, or if you haven't tasted the jelly-filled doughnut the angels eat in heaven each day, Pasieka has an assortment to counteract the effects of all that fasting. Dye-ing for more Easter fun? Check it out:

Easter Brunches
Ham Alternatives
Easter Egg Hunts
Easter Dessert Recipes

Check out more from Centerstage's 2009 Chicago Easter Guide.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

All Bulked Up

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of Bridget Montgomery

It's not as simple as buying "healthy food" anymore. These days, you have to take into account how your food was farmed, where it came from, which major food company is lurking in the shadows, how sustainably it was packaged and whether any farmers were slighted in the process. Most of us spend more time reading labels at the supermarket than we do actually eating our grub.

Turns out, there's an easier way: buying in bulk. Aside from the environmental benefits to minimal packaging, bulk products let you choose how much to buy, meaning you only pay for what you need. Most bulk foods also tend to be whole, putting an end to your routine label-scanning for MSG, excess sugar and preservatives. And, you can be sure your bulk dollars go right back into the local economy by shopping at these businesses. Now that's nothing to balk at.

Java-junkie overdose at Coffee & Tea Exchange
Coffee & Tea Exchange roasts its beans at a Grand Avenue warehouse and then trucks the goods across town to its Lakeview outlet, where they're loaded into barrels. As if it wasn't hard enough to choose from the espresso and dark roasts, you'll also have your pick of specialty blends and a selection of flavored coffees: Amaretto, cinnamon and vanilla are some of the more predictable ones, while adventurous types will go straight for coconut, orange, chocolate-raspberry or chocolate-mint.

Most cost $8-$11 per pound. While canned coffee might be a tad on the cheaper side, the huge jump in quality, freshness and ethical business practices makes Coffee & Tea Exchange the better value by far. Be sure to check out the wall of bulk teas and spices before leaving.

Aspiring gourmets can't get enough of Treasure Island Foods
On the scant list of situations that would make a foodie break out into a happy dance in the middle of a grocery store, stumbling upon a bulk selection of fancy dried mushrooms is right at the top. The blink-and-you miss-it display sits between the olive bar and cheese cooler in Treasure Island's deli section. Ten glass jugs showcase all of the shitake, morel and trumpets you need to really get a sauce going. The damage will run you $2.98 per ounce of the lowly?but tasty?cloud ear funghi to $3.98 per ounce for the mighty morel.

Before you hightail it back to the kitchen, swing by the olive oil aisle for a tin of Filippo Berio; if you cook regularly, the three-liter vessel is a steal at only 30 bucks.

photo: courtesy of Bridget Montgomery

Nibbling on namkeen at Patel Brothers
When you need a 20-pound bag of basmati or 16 liters of vegetable oil, head north to Patel Brothers. Resist the curry smell that teases from all directions on Devon and keep telling yourself this: "There are free samples inside."

The shelves at this stalwart grocer stretch up to the ceiling, framing broad aisles full of Indian mothers guiding overstuffed carts. If you're not looking to whip up a dinner for 12, just nudge your way to the southwest corner's display of 32 earthenware cauldrons, each filled with its own blend of namkeen. Running $2 to $4 per pound, these savory snack mixes are staples in any Indian household. The basic formula is to take various crunchy things (dried peas, nuts, rice flakes) and add a blend of Indian spices (cumin, coriander, curry, cardamom, fennel) in varying proportions. Pop the treat in your mouth for a quick hunger fix.

Getting your crunch on at Newleaf Natural Grocery
One of the chief benefits of buying bulk items is to avoid food manufacturers' astronomical markups. Case in point: breakfast items. A box of individually packaged oatmeal typically costs $3 to $5. A pound of bulk oats runs just $1.50-$1.59. That's one hell of an increase for a bunch of debris.

Granola suffers this same fate; many people pass on the crunchy stuff because it's just too expensive, but New Leaf offers six bulk blends, from hemp to French vanilla. Each will set you back about $3.50 to $5 a pound, a steal when compared to the fancy-pants bags you'll find in the health food aisle at chain grocers. If you want to go even cheaper, make your own from the other bins of Newleaf: Load up on oats, brown sugar, a couple kinds of nuts, sunflower seeds and raisins. Toss with salt, flaxseed oil and maple syrup and bake on a cookie tray for an hour at 250 degrees, tossing every 15 minutes.

Kick it up a notch at Spice House
Even those of us with the best culinary intentions treat seasoning as an afterthought?always buying the cheapest option so that we can put the extra dollars toward a good olive oil. Adding insult to injury is the outrageously long shelf-life we expect our spices to endure. Be honest, just how many half-empty shakers of McCormick garlic salt do you have in your spice cabinet right now? And what are the expiration dates on those babies? To do their job right, spices should be treated gently, ground in tiny batches and used right away.

That's where The Spice House comes in. It knows that the sensory boost you get from properly treated thyme, oregano and chipotle is astronomical. Each spice and housemade blend is measured out from apothecary jars into shakers, reusable bags or vessels you bring from home. From a three-buck bag of garlic salt to a $150 tin of superior-grade Spanish saffron?and the whole stick Indonesian Cassia Cinnamon, truffle salt and bay leaves in between?prices vary wildly.

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Easter Dessert Recipes

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

You can skip that trip to the bakery this Easter. We got some of Chicago's best pastry chefs to give us their recipes for seasonal desserts that'll make your Sunday extra sweet. They may require a bit more effort, but we promise that your guests will talk about the results for years to come - once they get over the envy, that is.

Rhubarb Almond Crumble
Toni Roberts, C-House
When Executive Pastry Chef Toni Roberts thinks of spring, she thinks of rhubarb. Growing up, the succulent stalks were a staple on her family's Easter table. She loves this recipe because it's simple to prepare and makes the perfect dessert for welcoming the season. Roberts notes that the Moscato wine can be left out of the recipe, but says that it really enhances the flavor of the rhubarb. And, the rest of the bottle can be an excellent accompaniment to enjoy as a nice treat with the finished crumble.

FILLING
2 1/2 lbs rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
2 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar
2 tsp lemon juice (zest and reserve for crumble)
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup Moscato
1. Heat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Combine rhubarb, sugars, lemon juice, and salt in a large bowl.

3. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and Moscato. Pour over rhubarb mixture and combine.

4. Fill either a 9? x 9? pan or ramekins with the filling. If using ramekins, leave an inch of space between the filling and the rim.

CRUMBLE TOPPING
1 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
2 1/4 cup rolled oats
3/4 cup (3 oz) sliced almonds
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup light brown sugar
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
8 oz cold butter, cubed
1/2 tsp salt

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Using the paddle attachment, mix on low until the butter is smaller than peas.

2. Sprinkle generously over the top of the rhubarb filling. Bake until the filling is bubbly and the tops are golden brown, 30-45 minutes, depending on pan or ramekins used.

3. Allow to cool a bit. Serve with vanilla or almond ice cream.

Brown Butter Carrot Cake
Stephanie Prida, one sixtyblue
When it comes to Easter Sunday, pastry chef Stephanie Prida of one sixtyblue likes to stick with the classics. "This one is a little more special," says Prida of her indulgent dessert, "because it incorporates brown butter and it gives the cake a more toasty flavor." She notes that the brown butter adds a moist consistency, as opposed to your run-of-the-mill carrot cake. And of course, it wouldn't be carrot cake without the classic cream-cheese frosting. If you're not up to the challenge, you can grab a $7 slice of the stuff during one sixtyblue's Easter brunch.

CAKE
1/2 pound butter
1 cup flour
1/2 cup almond flour
1 tsp B. Powder
1 tsp B. soda
1/8 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 tbsp vanilla paste
2 cup carrots, grated

1. Preheat the oven to 325. Brown butter over low heat and strain. Next, sift the flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon.

2. In a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment combine the sugars, add eggs and vanilla one at a time. Add sifted dry ingredients. Slowly stream in brown butter. Add grated carrots last.

3. Bake in mini loaf pans for 15 minutes.

VANILLA BEAN CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
115 grams butter 225 grams powdered sugar 4 grams vanilla extract 1 vanilla bean 170 grams cream cheese

1. Cream butter and vanilla bean. 2. Add sifted powder sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and cream cheese and beat until mixture is white and fluffy (no cream cheese lumps).

Lavender Scented Panna Cotta
Anna Jarosz, Birch River Grill
You won't need to worry about preheating or over-baking anything with Anna Jarosz's sweet Easter treat. The Birch River Grill pastry chef welcomes spring to the suburbs with fresh lavender and citrus elements, while adding a light sweetness and a clean, refreshing bite to the dessert.

LAVENDER PANNA COTTA
2 sheets gelatin
1 tsp. dried lavender flower
1/2 cup sugar
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup buttermilk

1. Bloom gelatin. Steep the rest of the ingredients, except buttermilk, together for half an hour.

2. Strain all ingredients from step 2. Add gelatin. Add buttermilk and whisk together.

3. Place in ramekin and let set in cooler for 1-2 hours.

APRICOT GLAZE
1/4 cup apricot puree
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste
1 sheet gelatin

1. Bloom gelatin. In a sauce pot heat the other ingredients. Add steps 1 and 2 all together.

2. Spoon over cooled panna cotta and place in cooler to set.

Hawaiian Sweet Potato & Golden Beet Tart with Creme Fraiche
Carol Wallack and Gerardo Villagomez, sola
Pastry novices may tremble in their non-slip kitchen-safe shoes over this one, but any skilled hand will appreciate the complexity of this Easter treat, created by sola executive chef and owner Carol Wallack and pastry chef Gerardo Villagomez. "I'm always the one who steers towards the savory dessert," says Wallack. And this alternative is no exception with its unique combination of sweet potatoes, golden beets and miso. "I absolutely love it. The beets are local and sweet from Werp Farms in Michigan. They are slow roasted and then candied a little bit more. We use Hawaiian sweet potatoes a lot here at sola and they are the perfect accent. Gerardo makes the creme fraiche in house, and folds in miso for a slightly savory finish."

BEET & SWEET POTATO CONFIT
16 oz. each, Hawaiian sweet potatoes, and golden beets, 1/4-inch dice
For each vegetable:
1 quart water
2 cups sugar
1 vanilla bean
Pinch of salt
1/2 stick of lemongrass
2 kaffir lime leaves

1. Combine water, sugar, vanilla bean, salt, lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves in two separate pots. Boil sweet potatoes and beets separately in mixtures until tender (about 10 minutes each). Drain both, saving liquid from beets. Let vegetables rest in refrigerator for 24 hours.

MISO CREME FRAICHE
10 oz cream
5 oz buttermilk
1/2 tsp ginger powder
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 oz white miso

1. Pour cream and buttermilk into a container. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 48 hours. Whisk, and then cool.

2. Once cooled, whip together with ginger powder, sugar, vanilla and white miso.

SAUCE
1 cup liquid from the beet confit
2 oz. white miso
1. Boil together and reduce by half.

ALMOND FLOUR DOUGH
1.4 oz butter, softened
1.6 oz powdered sugar
1.7 oz honey
1.7 oz almond flour
1 oz egg whites
Pinch of cinnamon
Pinch of salt

1. Combine butter, powdered sugar, and honey with a paddle in the mixer. Add whites. Incorporate the dry ingredients.

2. Roll out dough, cut out circles. Bake flat on a silpat until golden, about 12-15 minutes at 300 degrees. Remove from oven, wait about 20 seconds and lift to lay over a small bowl to get a formed shape of the bowl. Let cool.

3. To plate: put a spoon of miso creme fraiche inside the cookie bowl. Spoon beets and sweet potatoes in and add another spoon of the creme fraiche on top. Ladle a spoonful of sauce onto plate around the "bowl." Garnish with a piece of mint and crushed almonds.

Hot Cross Buns
Jove Hubbard, David Burke's Primehouse
Executive pastry chef Jove Hubbard finds his favorite Easter treat in family tradition. "My mother always makes these on Easter," says Hubbard. "She loves to bake, and this reminds me of growing up."

1 cup warm milk (105�?115�F.)
two 1/4-ounce packages (5 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup plus 1 tsp granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt
1 1/4 sticks (1/2 cup plus 2 tsp) cold unsalted butter
2 large eggs
1 large egg yolk
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/3 cup golden raisins
2 tsp finely grated fresh orange zest
2 tsp finely grated fresh lemon zest
3 tsp superfine granulated sugar
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice

1. In a small bowl stir together milk, yeast, and 1 tsp granulated sugar. Let mixture stand 5 minutes, or until foamy.

2. In a large bowl sift together flour, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Cut butter into bits and with your fingertips or a pastry blender, blend into flour mixture until mixture resembles coarse meal.

3. Lightly beat 1 whole egg with egg yolk. Make a well in center of flour mixture and pour in yeast and egg mixture, apricots, raisins, and zests. Stir mixture until a dough is formed.

4. Transfer dough to a floured surface and with floured hands knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

5. Transfer dough to an oiled large bowl and turn to coat. Let dough rise, covered with plastic wrap, in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 1 1/2 hours.

6. Butter 2 large baking sheets. On a floured surface with floured hands, knead dough briefly and form into two 12-inch-long logs. Cut each log crosswise into 12 equal pieces. Form each piece into a ball and arrange about 1 1/2 inches apart on baking sheets. Let buns rise, covered, in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes.

7. Preheat oven to 400�F. While buns are rising, lightly beat remaining egg with superfine sugar to make an egg glaze. Brush buns with egg glaze. Bake buns in upper and lower thirds of oven, switching position of sheets halfway through baking, until golden, about 12 minutes. Transfer buns to a rack to cool slightly. 8. Mix the lemon juice and powdered sugar. Place in a piping bag and pipe crosses onto the buns. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Dye-ing for more Easter fun? Check it out:

Easter Brunches
Ham Alternatives
Easter Egg Hunts
Ethnic Easter Eats

Check out more from Centerstage's 2009 Chicago Easter Guide.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

Eat Your Words

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of the Edible Books Festival

As a culture, we're obsessed with food?preparing it, sharing it, smelling it and most of all, eating it. French gastronome and author Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin (1755-1826) put it best in his celebrated book, The Physiology of Taste, when he wrote, "Gourmandise is an impassioned, rational and habitual preference for all objects that flatter the sense of taste." And sometimes, those objects just happen to be books.

But we're not talking about your average paperback or hardcover bestsellers here. No, the objects in question are showcased annually at the International Edible Books Festival and are handmade from edible mediums like seaweed, filo dough, cake, spam, hot dogs, fondant and rice paper. And with today's innovative culinary techniques and resources like edible ink and play-dough, this palate-pleasing literature is looking (and tasting) better than ever.

The festival has become a worldwide trend thanks to its founders, librarian Judith A. Hoffberg and artist Beatrice Coron. The first International Edible Books Festival was held in 2000 and the event has grown dramatically over the past 10 years, reaching numerous countries. To date, these include Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Russia and, of course, the United States of America, where our very own Columbia College will host its 10th Annual Edible Books fest this year on Wednesday, April 1. The "foolish" date isn't just a coincidence, either; it happens to be the birthday of Brillat-Savarin.

This year's festival will feature work from culinary artists, literature-loving chefs and plenty of bibliophiles. The two-hour event will take place at the Columbia College Library (600 S. Michigan, third floor) with book judging at 6 p.m., followed by book eating at 7 p.m. Everyone in the community is invited to participate, bearing in mind one golden rule: the artwork must be edible and book-related (registration deadline is Friday, March 27).

photo: courtesy of the Edible Books Festival

"The Book of Pi"

If you're at a loss for words (pun intended), check out the photo gallery on the International Edible Books Festival website, where you'll find plenty of inspirational pieces from past events. Some of our favorites include literary puns like the "Tequila Mockingbird," portraying a faux dead bird floating in a glass of tequila, and the more literal "Book of Pi," featuring a rectangular slab of pie with number cutouts in its crust.

Perhaps eating a book isn't quite what the French gourmand had in mind when he constructed his own popular work on good eating. But surely his sense of taste would've been at least mildly flattered by a palm-size chapbook made from fresh snap peas, or a crunchy graham-cracker novel bound together by strings of bright red licorice. And if we truly are what we eat, according to Brillat-Savarin, then what better to be than a literary work of art?

If you're interested in participating as a bookmaker, you can register at book&paper@colum.edu or by calling (312) 369-6630. Entries must be dropped off on the day of the event between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Columbia College Library. Admission is $10 per person (free for those who enter an edible book) and $5 for Friends of the Library. Tickets are available at the door (cash and check only); all proceeds will benefit the college's Center for Book and Paper Arts' Equipment Fund.

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Burrito Showdown

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

Just because we're in a recession, it doesn't mean you should stock up on Spam, as CNN reports say many Americans have unfortunately already started doing. Drop the processed slop; you can still meet your nutritional needs on the cheap without sacrificing flavor. Our guide will tell you when, where and how to get the best cheap burritos in Chicago.

photo: Alicia Eler

Taqueria El Chorrito
Whether it's 4 a.m. or 9 p.m., count on this easy-to-miss storefront gem for top-quality, inexpensive burritos. And since it's almost next-door to gay bars Jackhammer and Touche, chances are good that you'll get some eye candy with your eats. An old-fashioned, now-defunct, maroon-colored neon sign proclaiming "Hamburgers Chili" testifies to this space's food-service legacy. Burritos come out fresh, hot and packed with the usual goods. Add extra avocado if you want the full experience.

La Amistad
So long as Montrose Avenue isn't flooded with water?which it seems to be anytime more than three inches of rain falls?make this fast-service spot a North Side stop for lunch or dinner burritos. Paintings on the wall wax nostalgic about the old country, suggesting this place's down-to-earth values. Service is prompt: chips and a variety of salsas arrive at your table only moments after you sit down. Big windows make for perfect people-watching on this busy commercial strip. The laid-back atmosphere's all good, but it's the perfect toasty tortilla outer layer gives these burritos that extra oomph.

Perez Restaurant
Gallery-hopping on a Saturday afternoon is hard work. After you buy that work of art you've been eyeing for some time, spending money on an expensive dinner might not sound quite as appealing. That's where Perez comes in. Located around the corner from the Peoria Street and Washington Avenue galleries, this two-room restaurant offers friendly, speedy service for here or to go. Salsa comes by the bucketful, so don't be shy about spreading the spicy stuff all over your burrito.

Tweet
Sure, burritos are great for lunch and dinner, but Michelle Fire's organic, locally focused brunch spot knows how to make 'em work for breakfast, too. Choose from one of six mouth-watering burritos that cater to the health-conscious crowd. We recommend the simple yet satisfying "numero cuatro," a flour tortilla loaded with organic beans, organic eggs, avocado and cheddar or Chihuahua cheese. Sure, $9.50 sounds like a lot for a burrito, but Tweet delivers good bang for you buck with heaping portions.

Rique's Regional Mexican Food
Rique's Regional, one of Uptown's many hidden gems, offers everything you'd expect from a family-owned business. Inside the homey storefront, which features a new artist's work every month, even the tables have that rickety homemade quality; they lean slightly to the left. You'll get the best of Central Mexican cuisine, and food comes made-to-order. Quietly tucked away from the commotion of neighboring streets, Rique's works best for dinner. Order the tender, fresh burrito filled with beans, avocado, tomatoes and onions. It's a recession deal that you won't soon forget.

Didn't find a spot close to your 'hood? Check out our full directory of Mexican eateries.

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Where's the Corned Beef?

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of Bridget Cicenia; Wilde's dressed-up take

Growing up, I spent every St. Patrick's Day in my Great Aunt Judy's Baltimore kitchen. We'd get busy right away, mixing that first batch of soda bread, shredding cabbages and preparing the meat. I'd watch her mix the spices for the brisket from my post over the sink, washing the dozens of red potatoes it would take for the feast.

The sheer volume of food always frightened me; it seemed like we were getting ready for a disaster, and I wasn't too far off: Our extended family of Irish-Americans were, every one of 'em, rabid eaters. But what was it about this simple meat-and-potatoes meal that made animals out of my uncles? There's just something about the familial allure of corned beef that prompts us to eat ourselves into catatonia.

While most cities host the corned beef revival every March, Chicago embraces the salty meat year-round. So why settle for the lackluster brisket that every bar, pub and corner tavern will churn out this week when you can embrace some of Chicago's best menu items? Come on, make Aunt Judy proud.

Old-fashioned: Corned beef entree at Fado Irish Pub
Corned beef rose to popularity in the late 19th-century, when Irish immigrants would preserve cheap cuts of meat with a salt cure as a way to stock up for winter. At the time, the word "corn" represented any pellet-like granule, and referred to the coarse chunks of salt used to brine the beef. Cabbage, being abundant, inexpensive and a throwback to the old country, was the obvious sidekick for the new dish.

While every pub in town can throw a brisket into a crockpot and call it dinner, only a few lay out a spread worth breaking Lent for. The components of Fado's traditional meal couldn't be more humble: boiled red potatoes, buttered cabbage, brown bread and a tender hunk of beef. But as generations of Irish-Americans have learned, the comfort is all in the simplicity.

For Breakfast: Corned beef hash at Sweet Maple Cafe
When dealing with those post-St. Patrick's hangovers, few things take the edge off like a plateful of corned beef hash. This coarsely chopped hodgepodge of potatoes, onions and leftover corned beef has been a diner staple for years, but most versions have little more to offer than an urgent need for an antacid tablet.

Sweet Maple's house-made version proves that the requirements for a perfect, old-fashioned hash are simple: Big chunks of salty beef must abound; a hefty coating of grease is essential; and the blend cannot, under any circumstances, come from a can. The UIC staple even scores extra Americana-cred for serving its mountainous portions alongside twin eggs and a fluffy, homemade biscuit.

On bread: Corned beef at Manny's Coffee Shop & Deli
It really isn't fair; there just aren't many sandwiches that can contend with Manny's bloated corned beef on rye. For a 10-spot at this short-order cafeteria, you get your daily calorie intake, over 60 years of history, and the smug satisfaction that comes with knowing all those New York deli snobs can't make a case against this Chicago classic.

We should give those whiny New Yorkers one nod, though: Ever wonder how corned beef is able to so eloquently straddle both Jewish and Irish cultures? It all started on Manhattan's Lower East Side, when Irish immigrants asked their Jewish neighbors to recommend a cheaper substitute for their homeland's bacon.

For starters: Irish spring rolls at Moher's
The argument can be made that corned beef is about as Irish as General Tso's chicken is Chinese. Indeed, you'd have less difficulty tracking down the meat in a Chicago bar than in a Dublin pub. But don't judge the dish too harshly. This briny brisket fed the folks that made America?just as our cities were built on carry-out Chinese, anchored by the inauthentic fried eggroll.

In a clever homage to the American culinary mishmash, Moher's serves up Irish spring rolls, the pub's most popular item. Corned beef, cabbage and Irish cheddar are stuffed into a fried eggroll and served with yet another Americanized novelty: Grey Poupon. Each serving yields two rolls, cut in half for easy sharing.

New-fangled: Molasses-glazed corned beef at Wilde Bar and Restaurant
Believe it or not, even lowly Irish grub can be dressed to impress, with its simplicity still firmly intact. And it's no surprise that a bar named after Oscar Wilde figured out how to turn a working-class favorite into a decadent?yet unpretentious?masterpiece.

One of the most popular items served at Wilde, the brisket is slow-cooked for three hours before a molasses, brown sugar and Irish whiskey (Jameson, of course) glaze is applied. The tender meat then bakes for another hour. Cabbage dresses up in an apple braise, while red potatoes get tossed with butter and parsley.

From the source: 3XL corned beef at Vienna Beef Cafe
Could anything taste better than corned beef straight from the source? Okay, so technically the source is the lower chest of a cow, but the 3XL Corned Beef at the Vienna Beef Factory is much easier to catch.

Located inside of the actual factory, this hidden treasure is usually filled with Vienna employees taking lunch breaks, but the cafe is open to the public. Nine (yes, nine!) ounces of hot corned beef are piled high onto your choice of bread. Have them throw a few slices of pastrami on top; the classic deli meat is actually just smoked corned beef.

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Forget the Fish Sticks

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

Meat-free Fridays are no longer a challenge, thanks to the city's strong selection of seafood-fueled dishes. From fried calamari to tasty tempura, these local spots are serving up plenty of tempting dishes throughout the Lenten season.

David Burke's Primehouse
Sure, David Burke's may be known for its expertise in the meat department, but executive chef Rick Gresh also knows a thing or two about fried oceanic fare. The tempura shrimp salad with cucumber, carrot, bell peppers and ginger-soy dressing, for one, is enough to strike envy in the guy chomping steak at the table next to you. To make it even better, the savory salad can be ordered during lunch as part of a three-course prix fixe, which also includes an appetizer and dessert, for just $20.09. And hey, if you can't indulge in steak at a steakhouse, you might as well be a little naughty and order up the fried calamari with tomato olive ragout?the dish even comes with a few grilled pieces so you don't have to feel too guilty, $11-$13.

photo: courtesy of C-House

Fish and chips

C-House
If there's one thing this downtown restaurant knows how to do, it's seafood. The menu's fresh selections are endless and the restaurant's raw bar is just as pleasing. And while all these options promote figure-friendly eating, we recommend the one that encourages frequent trips to the gym; C-House's classic fish 'n' chips, $20 ($17 for lunch). Executive chef Seth Siegel-Gardner adds a gourmet touch to the dish with homemade ketchup and tartar sauce for dipping. And hey, if you're going all out, you may as well finish your meal with a handful of bergamot chocolate truffles, pistachio brittle or a cup of hazelnut hot cocoa, prepared by pastry chef Toni Roberts.

sola
It's tough to steer clear of Chef Carol Wallack's popular bacon burger, but if you must, she's got an Asian-inspired calamari dish that'll help you miss meat a little less. Wallack prepares the dish tempura-style and serves it up with cippolini, lime and sweet saffron aioli dressing for dipping, $12. If you've got room for more fried fare, try Wallack's award winning hand-cut fries, drizzled with truffle oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

Red Light
Red Light's regular vegetarian menu offers a bevy of meatless alternatives, including a lineup of small plates for sharing. Crispy tempura artichokes get served with sweet, spicy and salty dipping sauces, $7. Another tempting choice is the classic Vietnamese spring roll with vegetables and rice noodles, rolled in a Vietnamese rice paper and served with sweet chili vinaigrette, $6. If you're steering clear of the fried stuff this season, try the roasted eggplant with sweet peas and potatoes in a shiitake mushroom broth, $6. Entrees include phad see ewe with shiitake mushrooms, egg and sweet soy ($17) and the popular kung pao tofu with peanuts, scallions and pea shoots, $14. If you can handle the spice, go for Red Light's potato curry with bean sprouts, mushrooms and sweet peas, or keep it simple with a the pesto fried rice and veggies.

Fulton's on the River
Here's to another local spot that knows how to please with its traditional English preparation of Pembrokeshire fish 'n' chips, $14.95. The fried favorite is served with tartar sauce and malt vinegar, just like the Brits enjoy it. While you?re waiting for your entree, try one of Fulton's meatless appetizers, like the deep-seared calamari with lime-mustard sauce or the Maryland-style crab cake with coleslaw and tartar sauce.

photo: courtesy of Martini Park

Shrimp tempura

Martini Park
Martini Park's recently revamped menu offers a sweet and sour lineup of sizzling seafood options for Lent. First, there's the Thai-style calamari with a sweet and tangy flavor that just might make you swear off meat for good, $11. And if that's not enough to soothe your carnivorous craving, order up a plate of the bar's sweet and sour tempura shrimp with fried veggies and Thai dipping sauce, $12.

Duchamp
Sometimes abstaining from meat means having to choose from a seriously limited menu, but at Duchamp, it means getting to pick from a separate (and affordable) Lent-inspired one. Every Friday during Lent, the chic Bucktown restaurant is offering a $25 prix-fixe menu, complete with three meat-free courses. First, you can choose from a selection of soups and salads, or start with something more indulgent like the white pizza with royal trumpet mushrooms. After that, the main course boasts a lineup of seafood items, like a roasted roulade of salmon, seared cod sandwich and Duchamp's version of fish 'n' chips with crispy skate wing and garlic fries. And if you've still got room after all that, you can finish with a dessert trio of caramelized lemon tart, chocolate cupcake and ice cream sandwich.

Glen Prairie
Suburban folks can stay on track during Lent with Glen Prairie's down-home menu. Crispy appetizers like the buttermilk-fried garlic and herb cheese-stuffed mushrooms (served with horseradish sauce for dipping, $7) are a welcome substitute for the restaurant's tempting beef tenderloin with pearl couscous. And while Glen Prairie's main selection of meat dishes warrant a good once-over, its chervil-crusted Wisconsin Northern pike, served with mac 'n' cheese and sauteed green beans ($18) will quickly divert your gaze, along with any ill intentions. Karma
This pan-Asian spot's got a Lent-friendly dish or two up its culinary sleeve as well. We recommend starting with the restaurant's Hawaiian panko crab cakes appetizer, served with pineapple-almond salsa and ginger tobiko butter, $10. You may have trouble sharing this one, but you'll need room for the striped bass entree, anyway. The tempura-style fish gets served with sesame jasmine rice, wok-tossed veggies and black bean garlic sauce, $25.

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Beer-Battered Bliss

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Stacy Warden

Wilde's fish gets the Bass Ale treatment.

You don't have to hail from the Emerald Isle to enjoy a heaping plate of fish and chips. But you might have to hail a cab after noshing on the stuff at these beer-crazed pubs.

Duke of Perth
Next to its sweeping list of scotch, the made-from-scratch fish and chips is the main draw here. Especially on Wednesdays and Fridays when the pub offers an all-you-can-eat special. And special it is with the Duke's select choice of cod fried in Tennant's Lager beer batter, served alongside peas and chips with malt vinegar. Not only is it one of the tastiest fish 'n' chip choices Chicago has to offer, but at $9.50, it's one of the cheapest. Duke of Perth is also one of the few pubs left in the city that has yet to give way to sports-streaming TV's, or any TV's, for that matter. Keeping in line with its lack of cultural distractions, the small space encourages socializing with strangers and making new friends. If all that chatter isn't doing the trick, offer up a strip of your fish; you'll be a guaranteed hit.

Chief O'Neill's
This classy little North Side joint boasts an entire menu of traditional Emerald Isle dishes, but it's the restaurant's signature fish and chips that puts the rest of its regional fare to shame. While it's not quite as cheap as Duke of Perth's ($11.95 vs. $9.95), it's certainly on par with its preparation. Chief O'Neill's choice of Atlantic cod gets dipped in the restaurant's homemade beer batter, fried until golden brown and served up with coleslaw and steak-cut fries. And as if there weren't already enough cod competition with the Duke, Chief O'Neill's also offers an all-you-can-eat fish 'n' chips deal on Fridays. On top of that, the restaurant features the fried stuff on its Sunday brunch menu, which just might put this one in the lead.

Wilde Bar and Restaurant
Bookish types will fall hard for this culinary tribute to the Irish author, playwright and poet. The restaurant's heaping basket of fish and chips is as much of a nod to Wilde as its full-functioning library and crackling fireplace. Dipped and fried in a Bass Ale batter, the Atlantic cod gets served with chips, slaw and a small tin ramekin of tartar sauce, $14.95. Finicky foodies may find Wilde's coating a bit too thick, but it holds the flaky fish together well and draws on the cod's mild flavors.

Grafton Pub & Grill
You may want to order more than one basket of fish and chips to soak up the many pints of beer you're bound to drink here. With imports from Germany, Quebec and Holland and domestics from local breweries like Two Brothers and Goose Island, it's damned near impossible to settle for just one bottle. And Grafton's fish and chips brings out the best in all of the pub's brews. Perhaps that has a little something to do with its beer-batter coating, though it could also be the homemade tartar sauce-simple and nearly as satisfying as the fish itself. Grafton's fish 'n' chips plate comes with the standard fries and slaw, $11.95.

Celtic Knot Public House
This European-themed pub in Evanston is the ideal spot for those who just want a little bit of fish 'n' chips, along with a little bit of everything else. Celtic Knot's dinner entree, the Celtic Collection, allows its patrons to sample the restaurant's lamb stew, fish 'n' chips and corned beef cabbage, $13.95. If that doesn't strike your fancy, look to the pub menu, where fish and chips can be ordered on its own for $11.99. Even the kids can revel in their own plate of fish fingers and chips for just $5. Unlike the cod used in our other picks, you never know what you'll get at Celtic Knot, as the restaurant changes its variety to reflect the freshest available ingredients.

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Where Can I Find Paczki in Chicago?

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:00:00 CST

If you've never heard of "paczki" before, no worries - not a lot of people have. But these fried, jelly-filled pastries are becoming a local Fat Tuesday tradition, thanks in part to Chicago's large Polish population.

At first glance paczki may look just like a large jelly-filled doughnut, but in actuality, they're much richer and denser than anything you'd find at your corner Dunkin' Donuts. Typically eaten during the last day before Lent (in Poland, they're actually eaten on Fat Thursday the week before), paczki are traditionally made up of sugar, lard, eggs and fruit. It was the best way for the Polish to get rid of these forbidden kitchen standards before Lent. They call it "Fat Tuesday" for a reason.

So if you want to add these pastries to your Mardi Gras celebrations, here's a list of bakeries in the Chicago area serving these Polish treats.

Delightful Pastries
This Northwest Side bakery is proud of its paczki; you won't find imitation donuts here. The staff makes traditional and original Polish paczki all year round. Flavors for 95 cents include apricot, blueberry, raspberry and plum. Those filled with rose petal jelly go for $1.15, while a fresh strawberry paczki with whipped cream is only $1.50.

Bridgeport Bakery
This South Side bakery has always been known for its daily-fresh pastries. It's no different for paczki here. Bridgeport Bakery offers a wide range of flavors at really low prices. Flavors include apricot, apple, butter with chocolate, lemon, peach and prune (85 cents each). Whipped cream-filled are $1.10 and strawberry whipped-cream is $1.25.

Alliance Bakery and Cafe
Though this bakery and cafe prides itself on its upscale and decadent desserts, you'll still find a good selection of the fried Polish pastry here, sold individually for $1.35. Filling flavors include apple, blueberry, cheese, poppy seed, raspberry and rose.

Weber's Bakery
Weber's is celebrating Paczki Day by offering 14 varieties of the pastry from February 19-24. Flavors include custard with chocolate top and powdered top, strawberry, apple-cinnamon and lemon. New additions include blueberry, fresh strawberry with chocolate top and fresh strawberry with white top. Each pastry is only 85 cents, but buy a dozen and you'll get a 13th treat free. Who says gluttony is a bad thing?

Oak Mill Bakery
Along with towering wedding cakes and gorgeous tortes and tarts, this West Side bakery has also got you covered for paczki. Flavors for $1.25 include apricot, lemon and poppy seed. For another 10 cents, flavors include rose and Advocaat (egg liqueur). Oak Mill's specialty, the blueberry with whipped cream, goes for $1.69.

Dinkel's
Since opening its doors in 1922, this neighborhood staple has been cranking out some bakery goodies, from cakes to bread to holiday treats. On Paczki Day, flavors for $1.29 each include Parisian lemon, plum, cherry, custard, apricot and chocolate. But if you're looking for something truly special, try the fresh strawberry paczki for $2.59.

Caesar's Deli
This Polish shop and deli specializes in pierogis, but its paczki won't disappoint, either. And you can expect freshness here, as the earliest they'll have the treats available is on the morning of Fat Tuesday itself. The Polish pastries will cost anywhere from $1.25-$1.50 depending on what flavor you get; choices include vanilla and chocolate custard, apricot, prune, strawberry and cherry.

Oak Park Bakery
From cookies to coffee cakes, this Oak Park bakery has it all. This includes an extensive selection of paczki. Their selection includes apple, apricot, blueberry, custard, butter cream, pineapple, lemon, raspberry, cherry, cheese, poppy seed and fudge for $1.09. For just a few cents more ($1.35), you can enjoy one with fresh strawberries.

Bennison's Bakery
Bennison's plans on celebrating Paczki Day by making the pastries with extra large dough, rich with egg yolks and, of course, fried. The Evanston bakery's available fillings include prune, apricot, cheese, raspberry and apple flavors for $1.28 each. For $1.96, you can get one with fresh strawberry and whipped cream.

Other paczki-purveyors:

Ace Bakeries
Vesecky Bakery

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