Another Option to "Dine" in the West Loop

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

There are so many choices to enjoy a great meal in the city that a lot of restaurants simply get looked over or don't make the cut. Some places that are decent, but won't blow your socks off, still have a place for foodies. Dine, located in the West Loop, is such a place that could be added to your dining options.

Executive Chef Chris Turano uses unpretentious ingredients and escalates them. His menu consists of American cuisine that has a lot of options. Some of the more memorable items were from the starter side of the menu, which included "Braised Veal Cheek, Caramelized Cauliflower Puree, and Mustard Seed Consomme". The "Cast Iron Seared Wild Alaskan Scallops, Soft Porcini Polenta, Parmesan, and Baby Arugula" also received high marks. Although I sampled their "Bone in Ribeye" and "Braised Domestic Lamb Shank" entrees, I preferred the "Block Island Monkfish, Wild Mushroom Broth, Beluga Lentils and Shellfish Mushrooms". The best dish of the evening came via the "Finishing Touches" dessert menu. I indulged in the "Red Velvet Cake" that had me licking the cream cheese frosting from my fingers.

Dine is a 1940's - style eatery and design essentials include vintage elements such as antiqued glass, terrazzo flooring, and over-sized printed art. It doesn't have that contemporary feel of other popular West Loop restaurants, but could be a good alternative to the contrary.

Dine is located at 733 W. Madison St. and is connected to the Crowne Plaza Hotel. For more information check out www.dinerestaurant.com.

Labels: chicago dining, chicago restaurants, crowne plaza hotel, dc crenshaw, dine restaurant, fete chicago, fete select tv, food, west loop restaurants

The Real Mole Deal in Logan Square

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Let's face it, there are a lot of restaurants in Chicago that feature Mexican cuisine, but there are only a handful that really, really stand out.

You can place the new Logan Square eatery Real Tenochtitlan (2451 N. Milwaukee Ave.) in the standout category. Let's say it together: Re-AHL-teh-NOCH-tee-tlahn.

Executive Chef Geno Bahena's specialty is mole sauce. Mole literally means "concoction" and describes a whole genre of sauces. Mole is complex to make and also represents the tradition of Mexican cooking. There are seven classic moles from a southern Mexico region called Oaxaca by which all moles are categorized.

Bahena features a different mole each night of the week, and they include, Amarillo, Manchamanteles, Verde, Chichilo, Rojo Coloradito, and Negro.

The menu is filled with a combination of traditional and specialty dishes that will make your meal memorable. Real Tenochtitlan credits the quality and authenticity of their dishes to the use of harvested fresh local organic ingredients.

Appetizers such as the Sopes Surtidos -- corn masa boats with a sampler of fillings like chicken, plantains, and black beans with chorizo, are a great way to get your meal started.

Memorable specialty entrees include a Natural Black Angus trater steak, a Chilean sea bass dish and a Sugar River Farm baby rack of lamb. I had the Negro specialty mole, which is considered the king of moles. Spicy and sweet the Negro mole contains over 28 ingredients that gives it a nice thickness and an intense flavor.

Skipping dessert here is not an option. The 10 desserts range from Mexican bread pudding and key lime pie, to buttered crepes and a warm individual pumpkin cake.

The restaurant is BYOB, which is another great reason to enjoy this restaurant during this challenging economy. The environment compliments the more upscale Mexican cuisine, and they have a separate dining room for private parties.

Take my word for it: Real Tenochtitlan is the real deal.

Labels: byob, chef geno bahena, chicago dining, chicago restaurants, dc crenshaw, fete chicago, fete select tv, logan square, mexican cuisine, mole sauce, real tenochtitlan

An Evening of Fine Wines From Around the World

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

The best wine event of the year, an evening of wines and eclectic hors d'oeuvres to please your palate.

Featuring 4 tasting stations and open bar

LUSH will pour12 wines, including champagne, whites, and reds that span the globe.

New this year isGoose Island's boutique beer station. Come learn about the sophistication of beer and food pairing.

You and your guests will enjoy a beautiful display of food and passedhors d'oeuvres.

An evening to participate in live and silent auctions to support children's education. A relaxing evening after work to support a resource that has helped kids and their parents for over 45 years.

Join the Sue Duncan Children's Center Foundation Board and Auxiliary Board at The University Club of Chicago for our annual fundraiser.

Thursday November 13th, 2008.

6:30 pm Wine & Hors D'oeuvres

8:00 pm Live Auction

It's all for the kids!

log onto www.sueducanchildrenscenter.org for tickets.

Labels: charity event, chicago events, dc crenshaw, fete chicago, fete select tv, goose island brewery, LUSH wines, sue duncan childrens center, wine event

20 Regions of Italy in River North's Ristorante Prosecco

A trip to Italy may not be on your travel agenda in the near future, especially with the state of the economy. However, thanks to a new River North Italian hot spot, you can experience Venice, Italy right here in Chicago. Ristorante Prosecco is a chic yet unpretentious white table cloth restaurant in the heart of the River North gallery district. Prosecco offers sophisticated, regional comfort foods from Italy's 20 regions, as well as the largest selection of Italian sparkling wine in Chicago. The interior of the restaurant was designed based on the beauty of Venice and the and the soft color of a glass of Proseco.

Executive Chef Mark Sparacino created Prosecco's menu to be seasonal and offer the finest foods from Italy. Their appetizer, salad and entree selections are plentiful and done very well. An appetizer menu favorite is the Capesanto con Brasato, a diver scallop stuffed with braised short rib of beef served on a bed of saffron risotto, shitake mushrooms and carrots. Their house made pasta and risotto are remarkably savory and popular. A couple of their notable pasta dishes are the Orecchiette Tartufate, served with wild mushroom, artichoke heart, sun-dried tomato, and black truffle cream and their Roasted Duck and Goat Cheese-Filled Ravioli. Proseco's meat and fish dishes such as the Full Rack of Lamb and Pistachio Crusted Halibut keep customers returning for more. The Tiramasu and Torta di Mele, a baked apple layered pastry tart, are two of at least six house made desserts that Prosecco offers.

Prosecco's extensive wine list is divided into two categories, sparkling and still. They offer some of the best and finest Italian wines in the country. They are Chicago's first proseccheria, a wine bar devoted to the enjoyment of Italian sparkling wine. Prosecco is planning to host several Italian sparkling wine dinners to showcase their flavor and versatility.

Ristorante Prosecco is located at 710 N. Wells St. in the River North gallery district. They are open for lunch and dinner. Check out Ristorante Prosecco at www.ristoranteprosecco.com. As always, watch Fete Select TV to check out the newest and best restaurants in Chicago.

Labels: chicago dining, chicago gallery district, chicago restaurants, dc crenshaw, fete chicago, fete select tv, italian food, new restaurants, ristorante proseco, river north chicago

My Best Dining Experience Ever!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

A month before my second wedding anniversary I was trying to decide what I would do for my wife. Of course our first year anniversary was special, but my goal was to make our second year just as memorable. My new Facebook friend, Pam Spritz, is a sassy, cute, and energetic mother and grandmother. Our connection came through the birth of my son Tru on August 5th and her granddaughter Sunney Lou on August 6th. Pam also has a son, Jordan, the founder and Executive Chef of Jordan's Food of Distinction (JFOD). He asked to cook for my wife and I on our anniversary and what followed was the best dining experience ever!

JFOD is in an unassuming location on Thomas St. near Ashland and W. Division St. The dining room and kitchen are open and connected. The room is intimate, homey, quaint and exudes food. I never imagined upon my arrival that such a modest spot would leave us with an incredible experience. We were their special guests for the evening. A table set for two complete with candles and a flower arrangement created by Pam that reflected my wife's wedding bouquet. Cocktails, wine, and champagne flowed steadily. A dining scene that heightened all of our senses. The eight courses prepared for us were stunning and included "Marinated Hawaiian Black Fin Tuna and Japanese Day Boat Hamachi", "Pan Roasted Diver Caught Scallops with Slow Poached Fresh Water Baby Rock Shrimp", "Crispy Soft Shell East Coast Whole Crab" and "Extra Virgin Oil Poached Artic Salmon". The dessert, "Candied Fresh Ginger and Warm Brazilian Mango", was ridiculously good.

Jordan customizes his cuisine to individuals. He actually interrogates his clients about their likes, dislikes, lifestyle etc. He wanted to know who we were, which allowed him to create and produce a menu that evening that hit home and provided a unique dining experience. His inspiration came from two famous Chefs, Charlie Trotter and Rocco Dispirito. Trotter taught him quality vs. quickness and Dispirito helped him to respect ingredients that come from farms.

JFOD is non traditional in their approach to dining. Although we had many courses, they don't matter here. It all depends on what the customer wants and likes. The more pickier the customer and the more challenging the task, the more excited Jordan becomes. For example, he once prepared a meal for a Japanese company that wanted 15 different dishes that represented the flavors of 15 different countries where they were located. The client has been a repeat customer ever since.

JFOD, on any given week, has artistic chefs from top Chicago restaurants such as Alinea, Trotter's, Moto, and NoMi that help out in the kitchen . Jordan wants his clients to feel that they had the perfect meal, at the perfect time, in the perfect place, during the perfect season. He wants his cuisine to reflect everything about life and the bubble that surrounds them at that moment. Everything that represents that meal.

JFOD can host up to 75 people for a cocktail party and 2 - 40 people for a sit down dinner. If you want a dining experience customized to your palate, then JFOD is a must try.

Jordan's Food of Distinction, 1551 Thomas Street, Chicago, IL. www.jfod.com (773) 278-8111

Labels: catering, charlie trotter, chicago dining, chicago restaurants, cuisine, dc crenshaw, farm food, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, jordan spritz, jordan's food of distinction, rocco dispirito

City Provisions Supper Club Farm Dinner

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Cleetus Friedman, owner of City Provisions Catering and Events, has put together an exciting event to educate, enlighten and entertain his guests.

Joined by Two Brothers' Brewery from Warrenville, Illinois and Faith's Farms of Bonfield, Illinois, the Farm Dinner is designed to help guests gain a better perspective on the origins of their food, the farming process, and how this all gets incorporated into the dining experience.

At 2 p.m. guests will meet at City Provisions (1820 West Wilson, Chicago , Illinois ) and board a chartered bus to Faith's Farms with arrival scheduled at around 4 p.m..

The experience will comprise of a five course meal with meat raised at Faith's Farm, paired with beers by Two Brothers and will also include a hayride tour of Faith's Farm, courtesy of farmer Kim Snyder. Jim Ebel, brewmaster at Two Brothers, will be on hand to discuss the brewing process and speak about the beers.

The Farm Dinner
Saturday October 18, 2008
RSVP to Brenda Uraski at 773-293-CITY (2489)
www.cityprovisions.com

Labels: chicago dining, chicago events, city provisions, cleetus friedman, D.C. Crenshaw, dinner, farm food, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, organic food, supper club

Brunch With Me in the South Loop

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Brunch is arguably my favorite meal on the weekends. My selection criteria for the perfect brunch spot is pretty particular when it comes to my Sunday afternoon feast. I must have good food, an extensive menu with a nice selection of breakfast and lunch items, and great cocktails. The vibe must be appealing, and of course, cost is always a factor. Next to New York City, Chicago has some of the best hidden gems for brunch when it comes to major cities. I found one such gem, maybe not as hidden as most, in the South Loop.

Cuatro Cocina Nuevo Latino has it all when it comes to my criteria. Their Bossa Novo Brunch was delectable. The food was bangin', the cocktails were slammin', and the vibe was on point. In a nutshell, I liked it a lot. Executive Chef Edie Jimenez' menu consists of soulful flavors of Latin America, Caribbean and Mexican cuisine. Brunch standouts include the Tropical Pancakes, Chilaquiles, and Pan Frances (thick french toast with vanilla roasted sweet plaintains and farmers cheese). Cuatro's 10 cane rum cocktails flowed nicely and were a perfect complement to my meal. Great music adds to any brunch vibe and Cuatro has it with the lively Brazilian sounds of "Bossa Tres".

Cuatro's brunch is served Sundays 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. "Bossa Tres" performs 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. Dinner is served Monday - Saturday 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm and Sundays 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm.

Cuatro is located at 2030 South Wabash Ave. (312) 842-8856 www.cuatro-chicago.com.

Labels: bossa tres, brazilian cuisine, brunch, chicago restaurants, cocktails, cuatro cocina nuevo latino, dc crenshaw, fete chicago, fete select, latin america, music, south loop, sundays

P Diddy is "Ciroc Obama"

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

The political discussions are not just happening on NBC, CNN or Fox, but also in bars and lounges. In-fact, Plan B Bar in Bucktown has it's own Barack Obama drink called the Ciroc Obama. P Diddy has actually proclaimed himself "Ciroc Obama", as an homage to the brand of vodka he represents and the candidate he is supporting.

The Ciroc Obama
2 oz Ciroc Vodka 1 oz Chambord Fresh squeezed lemonade, the pulpier the better. Rim a highball glass with sugar and fill with ice. In a shaker with ice, mix vodka and chambord. Strain into glass and top off with lemonade. Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Plan B Bar and Kitchen
1635 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago
Tel: (773) 252-2680

Labels: chicago bars, chicago lounges, chicago restaurants, ciroc obama, ciroc vodka, cocktails, dc crenshaw, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, p diddy, plan b chicago, political drinks, sean combs

Barack Wins Sushi Battle

RA Sushi , the stylishly edgy sushi restaurant and bar, announced the winning roll from VOTE RA!, the taste test campaign for political pundits and sushi supporters held during the span of the Democratic and
Republican conventions.

With ballots collected from all three RA Sushi Illinois restaurants (Chicago, Glenview and Lombard), the Barack Attack defeated the McCain Terrain with 174 votes to 166 votes as the best tasting maki.

The roll created to embody the character, integrity and honor of Democratic nominee and Illinois Senator Barack Obama will be inaugurated onto the menu for $10, with $3 of every order benefiting Rock the Vote.

In honor of this culinary commemoration, RA Sushi and Rock the Vote will host registration events to encourage diners at each Chicagoland location to register to vote prior to Tuesday, Oct. 7, the last day to register in Illinois to be eligible to vote for the 2008 Presidential election.

BARACK ATTACK -Layered with smoked salmon, cream cheese, cucumber and artichoke rolled in rice and seaweed and topped with crunchy blue tempura bits, finished with a sweet eel sauce and wasabi mayo

EVENTS:

Thursday, Oct. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. -VOTE RA! registration event at RA Lombard

Friday, Oct. 3 from 6 to 8 p.m.- VOTE RA! registration event at RA Glenview

Monday, Oct. 6 from 6 to 8p.m. -VOTE RA! registration event at RA Chicago and official check presentation to Rock the Vote

RA Sushi will also offer $6 Appletini and Cosmopolitan cocktails during the Rock The Vote registration events.

RA Sushi Chicago at1139 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60610

RA Sushi Lombard at310 Yorktown Center, Lombard, IL 60148

RA Sushi Glenview at2601 Aviator Ln., Glenview, IL 60026

Labels: barack obama, chicago, chicago restaurants, contests, dc crenshaw, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, john mccain, ra sushi, sushi

Coca - Cola Sponsors Fete Select TV and Hispanic Heritage Month

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Sept. 16th marked the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month which is celebrated in the US - a national holiday that began under President Lyndon B. Johnson and highlights the significant contributions Latinos have made on US culture.

Coca-Cola and Fete Select TV celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an inside look at Mercat a la Planxa.

Inspired by Catalan cuisine, acclaimed Executive Chef Jose Garces' new restaurant shows us of why Latino chefs are making a huge impact on fine dining.

Mercat a la Planxa on Fete Select TV.
Mercat a la Planxa
638 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL
www.mercatchicago.com

Check out Fete Select TV's new segment on Mercat a la Planxa.

Labels: chicago dining, chicago restaurants, dc crenshaw, dinner, fete chicago, fete select tv, hispanic heritage month, mercat a la planxa, nbc 5 chicago, nbc 5 street team, new restaurants

This "House" Packs "Power' and Elizabeth Taylor History

eliza
Longevity in any industry is rare nowadays, but especially within the restaurant industry. A combination of great food, service, location and price is what every restaurant owner desires, in order to make their venue last. Chicago restaurant veteran Jimmy Alexander has been doing it for years, and now has another winner with his new restaurant Powerhouse.

Built in a historic landmark in Chicago's Fulton River District, Powerhouse gets its name from the Western Railway power plant. The main dining room vibe reminds me where powerful business meetings take place, but the separate bar area is much more casual and contemporary. The menu, by Executive Chef Jeff Mauro, is packed with an array of traditional American dishes with a powerful twist. One of my favorites was the Tartare of Hawaiian Ono, an appetizer item. The Lemon Risotto and Wild Boar Rack and Loin were also very tasty and enjoyable. One of the highlights of the menu was the famous Alexander salad dressing on their Romaine Hearts salad. Mr. Alexander explained that the salad dressing has been on the menu at all of his restaurants since the 1950's. In-fact, Conrad "Nicky" Hilton enjoyed the dressing so much, that he had it shipped to his 1950 wedding with Elizabeth Taylor, for their dinner reception. Now that’s a history lesson for you. The desserts are plentiful with a selection of cheescake, cake and sorbet, but the winner hands down were the Sweet Potato Doughnuts! Being a doughnut connoisseur, I have to say that these were the best doughnuts that I've ever had. Period! Gotta try the doughnuts folks.

Powerhouse is located at 215 Clinton Street between Randolph and Fulton. It's open for lunch and dinner and their casual bar is a great place to watch the game. You can check out their web site at www.powerhouserestaurant.com or call (312) 928-0800 for reservations. As always, check out Fete Select TV for an inside look at the newest and best restaurants in the city.

Labels: chicago dining, conrad nicky hilton, D.C. Crenshaw, dinner, elizabeth taylor, fete, fete chicago, fete select, jimmy alexander, powerhouse restaurant

El Barco Mariscos..."To Dine For" by Maddie

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

After several failed attempts to get my friend Jordan to have dinner at Graham Elliot or L2O he finally told me to quit whining and would take me to a spectacular “gem”– a place with the “best ceviche in Chicago”.

As we drove west on Division, I guessed all of the wrong spots. Are we going to Takashi? Nope. Mexique? Nope. After all of my superciliousness and uninformed attempts at guessing our destination we arrived at El Barco Mariscos (1035 N. Ashland).

Upon sitting down at one of the communal-esque tables, our server set down a plate filled with crispy tortilla chips, salsa and mole. Not for the faint of heart, these were some seriously spicy but scintillating condiments. I delighted by the satisfying smoky Chile flavor from the tar looking mole – a smokiness I’d never experienced before.

Set down in front of me in what can only be described as a huge chalice (my first thought was Pimp Cup), filled with a cool and refreshing sangria– without any of chunks of wine soaked fruit getting stuck in the straw. Jordan, as it turns out, knows what he’s talking about. The ceviche arrived next on an oblong plate divided into three sections: octopus, fish, and shrimp. Each prepared the same and included tiny bits of tomatoes, generous chunks of perfectly ripe avocado and as promised the freshest seafood I have ever had in Chicago. The preparation was so simple that we were instructed to take a lime from the cute wire basket on our table and squeeze fresh juice over the entire dish. The octopus was my favorite – just chewy enough not to be chewy and lacking nothing in flavor.

The other dish we tried was the whole fried Red Snapper. I generally shy away from whole fish – not because I don’t enjoy it but because I’m a hypocritical conservationist. I have trouble seeing the head and the eyes staring at me. Let me just say I got over it quickly and was soon enjoying the flavorful fish cooked with garlic and green onions. I’m embarrassed to admit that I eventually was picking up pieces with my fingers like other patrons – something only a place as affordable and relaxed, as El Barco Mariscos would welcome.

Labels: ceviche, chicago dining, chicago restaurants, dining blog, el barco mariscos, fete chicago, fete select tv, maddie, mexican, restaurants, sangria

Obama vs. McCain Maki Roll Showdown

Monday, August 25, 2008

The political scene has been at the forefront for Chicagoans the past 18 months. My personal friend and Illinois Senator Barack Obama has taken the world by storm with his charisma and inspiring speeches that has won over hundreds of millions of people. John McCain is experienced, but is trying to change his perception of being old and out of touch with typical Americans. With the help of the media, You Tube and cyberspace nothing has been off limits when comparing and contrasting the Presidential candidates on policy, style, age, family, wealth, and now...um...sushi?

Yes folks, it's true. Now Obama and McCain will go "maki-to-maki" in a taste test at RA Sushi for the best maki roll. You will have a chance to vote for either the Obama roll or the McCain roll as the best political roll conceived by the RA Sushi chef.

The "Blue" Barack Attack Roll is layered with smoked salmon, cream cheese, cucumber and artichoke rolled in rice and seaweed and topped with crunchy blue tempura bits, finished with a sweet eel sauce and wasabi mayo.

The "Red" McCain Terrain Roll consists of spicy tuna, crab mix and cucumber rolled in rice and seaweed and topped with crunchy red tempura bits, finished with a sweet eel sauce and spicy mayo.

In a non biased taste test, I personally liked the McCain roll better, although I think that they could have come up with something better for Barack who represents more flavor than the roll that represents him. Nonetheless it was an interesting and enjoyable taste test.

During both the Democratic and Republican National Conventions starting Monday August 25th thru Sept 5th, you can taste and vote for your favorite Presidential roll on the Campaign Platter at RA Sushi for $10. A portion of the proceeds, $3 from every sale of the Campaign Platter, will benefit Rock The Vote. The winning candidates roll will be inaugurated onto the menu at all three Illinois RA Sushi restaurants starting on Friday, September 12 through Friday, Oct 3. Also diners will be able to register to vote at RA Sushi Chicago on Monday, Oct 6, as part of a Rock The Vote event that will be held there.

Check out RA Sushi at www.RAsushi.com for more information.

Labels: barack obama, chicago, chicago restaurants, dc crenshaw, fete chicago, fete select, john mccain, maki rolls, ra sushi, restaurants, sushi, taste test

"To Dine For" by Maddie

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

This summer, simply filling up my gas tank has stalled my ability to
embark on the types of culinary adventures I have come to crave. My
personal hero, Anthony Bourdain, chef, author, and foodie
extraordinaire has taught me a thing or two about what defines a great
culinary experience. So, since I can't afford to travel the world on
an adventure of my own, I settled for watching the new season of his
hit show "No Reservations" on the Travel Channel (airing Monday nights
at 9 PM CST) and try to fill that void at home.

Bourdain and his crew traveled to Spain this week and in preparation,
I did a bit of "research" at my favorite place to blow a whole
paycheck, Fox and Obel (401 E. Illinois), where I picked up a few
items to assemble a Spanish influenced antipasto platter to munch on
during the show.

The first thing I included is thin slices of Serrano ham, an uncooked
and cured Spanish variety. Next, I chose two cheeses with the help of
the cheese monger – Nevat, a goat's milk cheese from the Catalonian
region (think Barcelona) and 12 month-old aged Manchego – a sheep's
milk cheese from La Mancha and officially my new obsession.

After picking up some Marcona almonds and Manzanillian green olives I
decided to look for some wine. I took the opportunity to try a
different type of grape, Tempranillo. This black grape is used in
full-bodied red wines, such as Rioja, and can be consumed while young
and have flavors and aromas of berries, plum, tobacco, vanilla,
leather and herbs.

Bourdain's eloquent and honest reporting gave me a new appreciation
for a country I've visited twice before and even transported me back
for a moment but sadly, my sofa continues to be a far cry from dinner
at El Bulli.

Labels: anthony bourdain, chicago restaurants, dining blog, efete.net, fete chicago, fete select, food, maddie, no reservations, travel, travel channel

Open Mic Night at Plan B

So you think that you have musical skillz? Then showcase them at Plan B on Wednesday nights for "open mic" night.

Located in Bucktown at 1635 N. Milwaukee Ave., Plan B also has weekly specials every Wednesday and Thursday. Their wings are slammin'!

Wednesday
$1 bud lt drafts
1/2 off apps and wine
open mic hosted by Chris Grant of Trippin Billies

Thursday
$1 bud products
$2 house shot
$3 house vodka
$.30 wings
DJ

For more information about open mic night at Plan B log onto www.planb-chicago.com

Labels: bars, bucktown, chicago, clubs. lounges, dc crenshaw, dj, fete, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, food, music, open mic, plan b chicago, restaurants, wings

Food Network Star Provides "Cravings" at W Hotels in Chicago

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Celebrity chef, author and Food Network star Dave Lieberman has partnered with W Hotels to create exclusive dishes for both IN ROOM DINING and their newly designed LIVING ROOM lounge menus. “Cravings by Dave Lieberman” features globally-inspired foods with a twist. Each Chicago hotel will choose four dishes created by Dave to feature through April 09. Each new menu item takes inspiration from one of the W's upcoming global destinations; from Atlanta to Austin, Milan to Marrakech, Santiago to Spain and everywhere in between. Menu's will change seasonally.

I had the pleasure of tasting four of the menu items at the W City Center last week and they were pretty darn tasty. The “Truffled Taleggio Grilled Cheese” was different from any grilled cheese that I’ve ever had. But not to be out done was the “Meatball Hoagie” with red paper tomato sauce and provolone. The “Chicken Kebabs” on the menu were inspired by the upcoming W Marrakech. All of the menu items feature foods with unexpected flavors and ingredients that add a personal twist. Also be sure to order their specialty cocktails in the LIVING ROOM or WHISKEY BLUE. The best of the cocktails are the “Strawaberry Basil Lemonade” and the “Forbidden Fruit Punch” (made for two). Check out “Cravings” at the W City Center or the W Lakeshore.

Labels: chicago, cravings, dave lieberman, dc crenshaw, fete, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, nbc 5 street team, w city center, w hotels, w lakeshore, wave

Four New Hot Spots To Dine!

Friday, August 1, 2008

I’m always looking forward to trying hot new restaurants in the city and Chicago always has a lot to choose from, especially this summer. Therefore over the past week I set out to try four new hot spots that have been generating a lot of buzz since opening. My criteria for deciding whether a restaurant is worthy of a repeat visit boils down to the cuisine, service, vibe, cocktails, cost, and location. For the most part the four dining venues hit the mark on food, but service was a bit sketchy for at least one of them.

My first stop during my week long dining crusade was Ajasteak. Located at 660 N. State St. (in the new Dana Hotel and Spa), they boast on offering the artful precision of Asian cuisine coupled with the robust flavors of a modern steak house. Basically they serve sushi and a very high grade of beef (Kobe). My wife and I had lunch there and were surprised to see the dining room nearly empty. The lunch menu however, provided an interesting choice of sandwiches, although a little pricey. I ordered the Pulled Pork Sandwich, which our server touted as his favorite, and the steak fries deemed the best ever. My wife chose the Seared Tuna Sandwich and a side of their heaping Onion Rings. We both shared a Maki roll to compare to our favorite sushi joints. The sandwiches were tasty; the service not so much. The steak fries were not even close to being the best ever. The sushi was decent, but nothing better than our more affordable BYOB sushi spot in Lakeview. Be prepared to open your wallet for an expensive and tasty meal, but the service may not coincide with the price.

My second stop was at OTOM, the sister restaurant to futuristic cuisine MOTO. OTOM Executive Chef Daryl Nash prepares post modern cuisine without being futuristic. They pride themselves on having stress free and fun food and I have to say that we had a lot of fun trying his creations. Cuisine such as Carbonated Watermelon to cleanse the palate and Butter-poached Shrimp appetizer were big hits. I’m not a huge fan of tofu, but their tofu poached in olive oil, corn puree and topped with freeze dried corn was savory. The Chicken ala King with oyster mushrooms and the Fried Short Rib Ravioli entrees were spectacular. After the Coconut-Pineapple Paradise dessert we were sold. The cocktails and service were great and the ambiance was low key. This is a great place to relax and chill with a significant other or a group of friends. OTOM is located at 951 W. Fulton Market St.

C-House was recently opened by acclaimed Chef Marcus Sammuelson. Sammuelson, out of New York City, is the youngest chef to receive two 3 star reviews from the NY Times. C-House is an American Seafood and Chop House restaurant. I taped a segment of Fête Select TV there recently and had a chance to enjoy some of Executive Chef Seth Siegel-Gardner’s specialty dishes, including Chili Crusted Fluke, Yellow Tail Fish Tacos, and Chorizo Mac & Cheese. C-Bar, their raw bar, offers standard seafood favorites and allows guests to sit and view the preparation of their meal. Executive Pastry Chef Toni Roberts created The Candy Bar- variety of bite size chocolates, confections and cookies. C-View is their upscale lounge located on the 29th floor and I became a fan of their Honeysuckle specialty cocktail. C-House is few blocks off Michigan Ave in the new Affinia Hotel (166 E. Superior St.)

The final destination on my parade route of restaurants was Hub 51. Owners R.J. and Jerrod Melman, sons of Richard Melman (Lettuce Entertain You), recently opened this 10,000 square foot space with a 20 ft bar. Hub 51 has definitely attracted a big crowd early and appears to be the new place to see and to be seen. The food is American cuisine with different influences from California, Mexico, Australia and Asia that includes homemade tacos, seafood, signature sandwiches and sushi. We had a Sweet Potato Roll, Chicken Nachos, Halibut Tacos, and the Sea Bass. The dishes were all very good, but the winner was the Sea Bass flavored with horseradish broth. My very pregnant wife couldn’t enjoy the Hub Punch, which is their specialty cocktail concoction of Grey Goose le Citron, tequila, Lcor 43, and pomegranate. The kicker for the evening was Martha’s Carrot Cake; RJ & Jerrod’s mother’s own carrot cake recipe. I’ll be back just for the carrot cake alone. Hub 51 is not a quiet place to have a romantic dinner, however it does offer a lively atmosphere with a bar scene that revs up as the evening grows. Check it out at 51 W. Hubbard St. (Corner of Dearborn and Hubbard)

Now that you have four new spots to try, drop me a line and let me know what you think at dc@efete.net.

Labels: ajasteak, C-House, chicago dining, cocktails, dc crenshaw, fete, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, Hub 51, new restaurants, Otom, seafood, steak house

BYOF (Bring Your Own Food) at WineStyles

Thursday, July 24, 2008

I'm a huge fan of BYOB's in the city, and Chicago has a lot of them that I've discovered over the past few years. They usually have great food, a nice atmosphere and the price is definitely right. But recently I discovered a place that is BYOF (Bring Your Own Food), which I thought was a creative idea in allowing me to still enjoy a unique and intimate evening out without breaking the bank.
Trayce D opened a WineStyles franchise in the South Loop recently and hasn't looked back. Located at 1240 S. Michigan Ave, her goal for WineStyles is to be the neighborhood wine boutique store that carries exceptional wines from all over the world. Wine Styles wines are for drinking, not worshipping and are priced at $25 and under. They take the guesswork out of buying wine by categorizing wines by taste styles rather than grape or varietals. They make learning about wine easy and enjoyable. And, they have an excellent selection of gift items including gift baskets and wine accessories.

The South Loop WineStyles offers the following:
* Wine Club Membership

* Complimentary tastings on Thursdays, 6-8pm

* Online shopping option

* Fine Cigars

* Private parties and events

* Live music on select nights

* B.Y.O.F (Bring Your Own Food) as they serve wine by the glass, or you can open a bottle.

* Wine classes and special order most wines by the bottle or case within 24 hours

Besides being a neighborhood boutique wine store, WineStyles provides a comfort and cozy setting for friends to meet up and partake in libations together. Sara Kay, their on staff Sommelier, can help you select a nice bottle of wine for your special occasion. I particularly like the fact that I can bring my own food, buy a great bottle of wine and still have a few dollars left over for dessert!
Check out Trayce D and her South Loop WineStyles location at 1240 S. Michigan Ave or log onto www.winestyles.net.

Labels: bring your own food, byob, byof, dc crenshaw, fete, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, fine dining, wine store, wine styles

BMW Ultimate Driving BBQ & Fashion Show

THE ULTIMATE DRIVE- BBQ, PARTY
& FASHION SHOW (4pm)

BENEFITING SUSAN G. KOMEN BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION

FREE FREE FREE FREE

HOSTED BY KENNY JOHNSON
SUNDAY, JULY 27TH, 2008
12 PM- 6:00PM

AT THE 63RD ST. BEACH HOUSE
63RD LAKE SHORE DRIVE/ SERENITY COURTYARD

CALL 1-877-4-A-DRIVE OR VISIT http://www.bmwusa.com/theultimatedrive To schedule your test drive.
Registration is still open, vehicles will be assigned on site.


Business owners or Corporations sign up today to be a vendor at the event
Email your contact info to tatiana@richmondgrouponline.com

Labels: bmw, breast cancer foundation, chicago, chicago events, fete chicago, fete select, kenny johnson, susan g komen, ultimate drive

Chicago Chocolate Tours

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Check out Chicago native Valerie Beck's creation of Chicago Chocolate Tours. Choose one of our four routes in different neighborhoods - the Magnificent Mile, Gold Coast, Downtown Loop, or Andersonville - and experience six wonderful chocolate shops or bakeries on each route. Depending on the route, you'll experience chocolate shops from famous favorites to hidden treasures, and from big brands to small often women-owned chocolate boutiques.

You'll be escorted by a lively and knowledgeable tourguide on a fun and fascinating walking tour to a variety of chocolate shops, where you'll sample the specialties of the house and meet the chocolatier, owner, or manager, for a behind-the-scenes talk about what makes the chocolate unique.

You'll sample more chocolate than you can finish. From truffles to tortes to tasty cocoa beverages, experience it all!

The tour is $40 person and when you take a Chicago Chocolate Tour, you will help save the world. In addition Chicago Chocolate Tours donates a portion of proceeds to CARE ( www.care.org ), an international humanitarian organization that helps women around the world exit poverty through entrepreneurship.

Sign up at www.chicagochocolatetours.com

Labels: chicago, chicago chocolate tours, chicago events, chocolate, D.C. Crenshaw, fete, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv, food, mag mile, michigan ave, nbc 5 chicago, nbc 5 street team, truffles

Bastille Festival 2008..."Viva la France"

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Join us on Monday July 14th, 2008 6 pm - 9pm, as we celebrate Bastille Day and the summer menu of Brasserie Ruhlmann, a French Steak House.

Champagne and cocktails on their cafe and beautiful outdoor bar.

Passed Hors D'oeuvres
Gourmet Food Stations
Raw Bar
Dessert and Cheese Tastings
Champagne and Wine Tastings
Beer and Specialty Cocktails
Tickets $40 in advance
$50 at the door

To purchase tickets call 312.494.1900
or visit Brasserie Ruhlmann at 500 W. Superior Street
www.brasserieruhlmannch.com

Labels: bastille day, bastille festival 2008, brasserie ruhlmann chicago, chicago, fete, fete chicago, fete select, fete select tv