"About Last Night..." Triple G...Gaga...Gia...Graham

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

WHO is that hot blonde? Ahhh simmer down, it's just me, Gia, in a mood to be Lada GaGa for a night. Why not right? It was a night to remember for sure. The festivities kicked off at a most desired restaurant, Graham Elliot appropriately located in the Gallery District. If you've never heard of this place you must Google it immediately because A. the website is very cool, and B. it's AMAZING. Housed in a 19th Century printing warehouse the vibe is hip, relaxed but buzzing with ultra cool people (Gaga included). As Graham puts it, the menu is a juxtaposition of four star cuisine with humor and accessibility. When our server mentioned that the Chef was once known to crack up Altoids and Cheezits out of the vending machine to complement various meals I knew I was in the right place. Truly, this is Chicago's first "Bistronomic" restaurant.

Ordering almost an entire side of the menu I sat back and awaited the meal to begin with a delicious glass of Chardonnay and to my surprise a basket of popcorn? Indeed, like nothing Orville could create. This had garlic and truffle oil and I was horking it down like I was in a movie theatre. Not my best idea as there were crumbs lining the front of my shirt like I hadn't seen food in a decade. Regardless, I swished it off and resumed my position for this gastronomic experience. The portions were small but there were many of them. Nothing was done in typical fashion. Each piece was done like a painting on a canvas. Caesar salad, Beet Salad, Bisque, Macaroni (more garlic and truffle oil), Scallops, Beef. They were all exquisite! The flavors and presentation were all very unique and tasted rich, yet subtle as you could easily move through all the courses without feeling like you've overeaten (not that I would know of course). The desert plate was a chocolate combination of Guinness/malt/cocoa, which I enjoyed with a glass of NV Pineto, Brachetto, Piedmonte from Italy. It was THE best desert wine and complemented the chocolate deliciously.

Though not an inexpensive start to the night I would say it is a PERFECT date night. Especially if your date is picking up the tab and they happen to be a VP, Surgeon, or Entrepreneur - you get what I'm saying, not a first date "we'll see how it goes" kinda night.

Needless to say, blonde wig in tow the night kicked up quite a bit and ended in a strange twist of events. From Crobar to Spy Bar I just couldn't keep the blonde thing up and ended up in my a la natural self....a little wiser...and as always...a little crazier.

Next week I cook on lava rocks. Stay tuned!

Graham Elliot is located at 217 W. Huron St. Chicago, IL 312.624.9975

In these photos: Gia Claire, Professional Bloggess and unnamed super cool guy!

Labels: Chicago dating and dining, dating and dining, new restaurants

"About Last Night..." Bingo Bango Bongo

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

I had a dream. Well, it was something like that for this little establishment on Milwaukee Ave. called the Bongo Room. Someone had a dream that the current owner had a restaurant named The Bongo Room, so there you have it. If it were my dream, I would have embellished a little for dramatic affect, but then again, I'm the writer, not the restaurant owner.

A day of hooky. No work, no cell phones, just the plain enjoyment of a day off from the world. It began here, at the Bongo Room. I must admit, I was not on a traditional date. He was much younger, yes, younger than my normal twenty-something crowd. He was a little less educated, and didn't have his career in line yet, but no matter, it was our special day.

The Bongo Room is pretty. It has fresh flowers, beautiful art, and seats at the counter, which I always find the most interesting. I love to pull up a swivel chair and have a conversation about life, what not. I couldn't help but notice the amount and variety of alcohol stacked high on the shelf. "Umm, excuse me, aren't you only open for breakfast and lunch?" I asked inquisitively. "True, but we get a lot of early morning Mimosa and Bloody Mary requests". Ahhhaaaa....I must make a mental note to self that if ever rounding the early morning near this fine place I must stop in for a cold beverage.

The menu had a variety of fresh choices. I wanted three or four things, and well, I usually do, but opted to try the Chicken and Avocado Club, and the Omelet with feta, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers. And....a delicious Cappuccino whilst waiting. The food arrived and looked like art. Fresh, edible art.

The Avocado Club was amazing. The baguette was crispy and warm and the sandwich sang in great harmony with the cilantro lime mayo. Muah. The omelet boasted just as much flavor. The egg portion was actually wrapped around the ingredients, so you could really taste the individual flavors. The portions were generous. The service was delightful and I have to say that the conversation was as stimulating as any date I've been on in awhile, traversing topics such as XBOX Call of Duty 4, the difference between magma, and lava, and the ever increasing selection of Nerf guns.

What could be better than that?

The Bongo Room is located at 1470 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 773.489.0690

Open only for Breakfast and Lunch (and cocktails!)

Stay tuned for next week - Lady Gaga meets Graham Elliot

Labels: Chicago dating and dining, dating and dining, new restaurants

"About Last Night"...Gia is in a Filter state of mind

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Modern. Eclectic. Chic. Flat out COOL. This is Filter Cafe, the newest coffee lounge, and wireless cafe on Milwaukee Ave. Recently re-opened, you would think they've been in business for years by the size of the crowd. Me and mine decided to do a little writing, sipping and snacking on a Saturday afternoon and the only thing I wished was that Filter took reservations because I almost had to sit on my date's lap (normally not a

problem) but with the Mac in tow, not so much.

Let me explain the awesomeness of this cafe. When you walk in you are immediately taken by the powerful colors, lights, art and hip decor. Large artwork floats on the ceiling, floor to ceiling red lights shine like burning embers, and funky, cool pieces of art randomly adorn the walls. It makes you just want to walk around the place and check it all out cause there's something around every corner and on every wall. Lime green couches, and orange chairs that

previously lived in someones home, or in an antique store surround the walls with small and large lamps that you swore could only look good at Grandma's now add a cozy element to this place. Almost impossible to describe is the look of curiosity that people have when looking at how they've taken old doors and placed on the wall as art. It's like a mini art gallery that is large enough to create a sea of laptops when you walk in. People conversing, typing, thinking, reading, sipping their delicious drinks. No doubt, brilliant ideas are being generated as we speak in this powerful place. The music playing is random and soft enough to think and have a conversation. Don't be fooled, this place isn't just for coffee. You can find a full menu of tasty delights from breakfast to hearty wraps, sandwiches, and salads. Place your order, grab a seat and one of the owners will probably bring the food directly out to you.. Some of my favorites are the Spicy Chicken Wrap, the Turkey Reuben, mac'n cheese, and the chicken chili.

Good food at good

prices. You can spend the day here. Heck, I could live here.

Almost four hours later my fingers were numb from typing. I was wired from the caffeine, full from the food, and yet, I still wasn't ready to leave.

Go there today, tomorrow, and every day after. The owners are so awesome, Jeff & Jeff...you can't miss them. Tell them Gia sent you and I promise you'll get Rock Star service!

Oh wait...you know I always check out the bathrooms because, much like the first kiss, you can tell a lot about a place by the bathrooms. I have to say, even the restrooms are funky;chalkboard and graffiti walls.

Jeff & Jeff - you have outdone yourselves!

I'll see you there on Saturday!

Muah for now!

Filter Cafe is located at 1373 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 773.904.7819

Labels: Chicago dating and dining, new restaurants

"About Last Night..." Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, Samantha, and Gia

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Walking up to Yolk on a Saturday afternoon you would think the ladies from Sex and the City had just taken over the place.  The line was almost curling around the corner and the wait was forty minutes.  "Forty minutes?? are you kidding me?" was my only reaction to the nice little twenty-something girl staring blankly at me from behind the counter.  Oh well, I was committed...I was starving...and I HAD to see what all the fuss was about.  After scouring through the menu, making random play lists on my IPhone, and scoping out everyone else's food when she called my name I leapt from my chair...ready to tackle an omelet the size of a football. The energy in this place is amazing. Much like Sex in the City, there are people gathered in groups, couples in tiny little blue booths and an entourage of interesting people at the bar sipping their coffee and enjoying the food.  I could literally picture the gals there, chatting about men, bad dates, and funky tasting...eggs.  But not here...Oh no, this food was outstanding.  Only open for breakfast and lunch the menu has a wide assortment of omelets, sandwiches, salads, pancakes, you name it.  I chose the Hey Ricky omelet which was Spanish with avocado, Chorizo, jalapenos and cheeses.  It came with a fresh assortment of fruit wedges.  The portion was more than three inches high and took over the entire plate.  HUGE!  But everything was so delicious it made me want to have a standing Saturday breakfast just so I could sample everything on the menu. Yolk is cool, hip, and I suggest you grab your favorite someone (as you can see in the picture...that's exactly what I did), and head there immediately.  And hey..."man up" the forty minute wait is totally worth it.  Text me while you're waiting...I'll put a smile on your face. 

Yolk has two locations: (South Loop) 1120 S. Michigan Ave 312.789.9655 and (River North) 747 N. Wells St. 312.787.2277

In photo:  Gia Claire, Professional Bloggess, and unidentified "favorite someone"

Check me out on Facebook - search "Gia Claire" - don't miss the fun! 

Labels: brunch, Chicago dating and dining, new restaurants

"About Last Night..." Gia says "I know this great little Italian place"

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Probably NOT the best time to wear my shredded boyfriend jeans and rocker sandals, as Riccardo Trattoria is a very mature, sophisticated place.  No worries, I strolled in like I owned the place and found that I was greeted as if I 
was family and treated as such the entire time.  An almost "drive by" location on North Clark, this delicious retreat is a comfortable place to go, relax, have a good meal, and have an intelligent conversation unencumbered by pulsing music, or loud buzzing conversations; which is exactly what I did.   A robust glass of Cabernet to start the evening and a moment to breathe, relax and enjoy the local crowd.  You get the sense that people stroll by and decide to come here for dinner, because it's almost like being in your own home, ya know, plus or minus thirty other people.  Keep in mind with all this subdued, elegance, that if conversation is not your thing, you might want to skip the date and bring a paper...could be just as nice an evening. There's no random conversations to lose yourself in...this is all one on one.

Named after Chef Riccardo, the acclaim, as boasted all over the advertised entry, was very authentic Italian with a menu that had such variety it was almost impossible to choose.  Given the crisp August air a warm bowl of Pasta e Fagioli seemed appropriate.  The cannellini beans and pasta were almost blended into a creamy, slightly spicy texture...molto buono.  We chose the traditional entree of Fettuccine Bolognese and the Pappardelle "Florentine", with diced beef tender ragout/porcini/Chianti sauce.   Both dishes were outstanding.  The Florentine was less familiar and took some getting used to with the finely shredded beef and Chianti sauce.    A delicious meal followed by what can only be tradition...an espresso (or in my case a triple, just to keep the tank full), and a variety of sorbets.  

It's amazing what you can learn about someone when you actually have a conversation!  I can't lie to you friends...I WAS tempted to do a little "under the table" texting...but I was good girl.

In this photo:  Gia Claire, Professional Bloggess

Riccardo Trattoria is located at 2119 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 773.549.0038

Labels: Chicago dating and dining, fine chicago dining, italian cuisine

"About Last Night..." Gia Hits a European Beer Hall

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

The Publican was huuuuuum-mming on Saturday night.  As soon as you walk in you can just feel the electricity.  The conversations, set at large walnut communal tables, are buzzing and the hundreds of globe lights on the ceiling (shown in picture) just make this place bright - electric - happening - totally happening.  If you arrive early you are placed in the middle of the dining section at tiered round cocktail tables whereby you can begin with a tasty cocktail and an appetizer, if that's your thing.  I can't remember when a fine meal didn't start with a fine beverage so I solicited some advice from our waiter for the very BEST choice.  Known for the large, international beer selection I felt obliged to, as before, pick one based on the name.  I chose the Duchess de Bourgogne (shown in picture).  This frothy orange goodness was sweet, sour, cold and delicious. I had my doubts at first, but me and the Duchess got along just fine, times three.  Let me get to the menu because I could go on and on about the strong architectural lines and energy of this place but the food....the delicious food story needs to be told.

Known for market and organic fresh everything, I didn't know where to begin.  The oyster platter had a variety of choices from Canada to New Zealand, and most were very creamy and smooth.  As the menu is divided by fish, meat and vegetables we had something from each.  The lake perch fry was outstanding and came with fried artichokes and even lemon slices (which strangely, are quite tasty when fried).  We were also given a sampler of the shrimp which came right off the ship of Captain Dino in New Orleans, apparently just twenty-four hours earlier.  I stared into the eyes of the shrimp floating in squid ink fettuccine, did a three second pause thinking of the talking shrimp in the move Shark Tale, and gulped it down, poor little guy.   Another fine offering from the fish menu were the bouchot mussels which were steamed to perfection.

You can't really come to a place like this, what with swine artwork on every wall, and not try the pork.  The spicy pork rinds were...like eating spicy air, but it's all good.  More importantly, the "potee" was sausage, pork tenderloin, and pork confit, which all boasted tender juicy flavors.  Thank goodness all the dishes were meant for sharing, in case I didn't mention.  I just couldn't eat another bite - you know I tried, but every girl has her limits.

In this Photo: Gia Claire, Professional Bloggess (and lovely waiter who shall remain nameless)

** for more information on Gia's adventures search "Gia Claire" on Facebook

the Publican is located at 837 W. Fulton Chicago, IL 312.733.9555

Labels: Chicago dating and dining, chicago food, new restaurants

"About Last Night..." Gia catches some of that Wildfire

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Nothing makes for a greater night out than combining a game of competitive pool with a little Wildfire.  Except in my case, the pool consists of dancing around the table and shaking the pool stick around like a ninja...entertaining but not quite competitive.  

Needless to say, I brought my appetite by the time we hit Wildfire on W. Erie.  While I realize this place is neither new, nor is their a doubt in anyone's mind as to whether or not this would make for a great meal.  But you know me by now...it's not just about the meal...it's the whole experience.

This place smells delicious, as you might imagine.  It has a regal and classy feel.  I must have sipped the Stormy Night drink down too fast because I really don't recall the musical selections for this fine establishment.  For the record, that is one puckery drink, I'm certain I had that ear to ear grin like the Joker plastered all over my face.  

The appetizers chosen were classic, yet delicious.  Oven baked goat cheese, spinach artichoke fondue and calamari - all excellent choices.  The main course however was, as shown in the picture above, an item that was not actually written on the menu but a must have item...the Macadamia nut crusted Halibut.  WOW...buttery, rich, and amazing over the white flaky fish.   Another tasty choice was the Fillet medallions with signature crusts...my personal favorite was the mushroom, but you can pick three and try a variety such as Parmesan and blue cheese crusts.  AS IF that wasn't enough food, we were over served with the Au Gratin potatoes, wild rice and steamed broccoli.  I recommend it all, but please make sure you ask for the Halibut, it's like a great little secret.   

Three Stormy Nights later, still smiling like the Joker, I politely declined desert...stood up and curtsied in gratitude for a lovely evening.

In this photo: Gia Claire, Professional Bloggess (pretending to know how to play pool)

Wildfire is located on 159 W. Erie, Chicago, IL 312.787.9000

Labels: Chicago dating and dining, chicago dining, fine chicago dining