Monday, July 30, 2012

Westfield's WFamily series presents "Dog Days of Summer", August 4

Westfield Old Orchard will be hosting its monthly WFamily program 11:30 a.m. to 12: 30 p.m. August 4.  Can you believe summer is drawing to a close? Come celebrate the Dog Days of summer with Westfield at Barnes & Noble where preschool aged children and their parents will enjoy a free story time and crafting session rejoicing all the best things about summer.    Westfield has partnered with The Skokie Public Library to offer this free event series to Chicagoland families to promote learning through literacy and creativity.  This event is complimentary and registration is not required.

CHICAGO HUMAN RHYTHM PROJECT LEADS AMERICAN RHYTHM CENTER

New Arts Facility and Collaborative Business Model Located at Chicago’s Fine Arts Building

The Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP) announces the establishment of the American Rhythm Center (ARC), a new initiative to provide a shared, affordable and sustainable education, rehearsal and administrative facility for several leading Chicago arts organizations. This new institution is located in renovated spaces at Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Avenue.

CHRP will develop the ARC, a collaborative effort to foster community growth through rhythmic expression, in several phases. The aim is to offer diverse, high-quality dance and movement classes to the general public while centralizing the education programs, rehearsal space and administrative offices of several core groups, as well as additional emerging companies and independent artists.

The idea for ARC grew from a CHRP strategic planning process followed by intensive, collaborative planning with participating community partners, including:

Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre

Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute

Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (already in residence at the Fine Arts Building)

Giordano Dance Chicago

Kalapriya, Center for Indian Performing Arts

Luna Negra Dance Theater

Ping Pong Productions, which facilitates collaborations between Chinese and international artists

River North Dance Chicago

In the first phase of development, CHRP is updating space occupied for three decades by the Boitsov Ballet, which will feature three professional, flexible-use studios ranging in size from 750 to 1,500 square feet, as well as a remodeled lobby, dressing rooms and a separate floor of administrative offices. In the second and third phases, CHRP will add supplemental program space, a black box theater and updated administrative facilities. Limited operations will begin at the end of July in conjunction with CHRP’s 22nd annual Rhythm World Festival; a grand opening with all the partners will take place in early September.

CHRP’s ARC will provide a long-term platform for stability and growth in several key areas by:

• addressing the near-universal need among small and mid-sized dance and other arts organizations for professional administrative, rehearsal and education spaces as well as a desire to unify as many organizational functions as possible in a single location

• creating a venue that will allow arts organizations to develop and maximize earned income from tuition-based education programs while lessening reliance on subsidies

• enabling longer-term program planning as well as enhancing the potential scope and impact of tuition-based education programs

• attracting thousands of students from Chicago, the U.S. and around the world to study dance in Chicago’s emerging dance corridor, furthering Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s vision for Chicago as a center for dance education and performance

• managing the facility, mitigating many users’ current space management burdens

“We are proposing to alter the traditional business model by offering arts groups the opportunity to shift their reliance on contributed income and dwindling revenue from ticket sales to self-sustaining revenue via educational programming,” commented CHRP Founder and Director Lane Alexander, who had the original vision for ARC. “The value proposition for most people has changed, and making art has become more nourishing than watching others make art. CHRP’s new ARC will serve a two-fold purpose: to offer world-class dance instruction for the public and a stable platform for small and medium-sized nonprofit companies.”

According to new CHRP Executive Director Frank Sonntag, who recently led the opening of the Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts in Minneapolis, “Lane’s vision is all about creating a collaborative environment with shared resources, which will provide the partnering organizations with a creative hub and educational platform greater than the sum of its parts. I think such efforts will become more commonplace and integral to capacity-building efforts throughout the arts and culture field in the future.”

Funding

CHRP’s ARC has raised more than $1 million to date as part of a multi-phased $2.5 million capital start-up campaign. Jenner & Block LLP has provided pro bono legal support. Major funding for capital and start-up operations has been provided by Elaine Cohen and Arlen Rubin, The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, The Joyce Foundation and The Boeing Company, with additional support from Pamela Crutchfield, The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, The MacArthur Fund for the Arts and Culture at Prince, Arts Work Fund for Organizational Development, the James. S. Kemper Foundation, the Illinois Arts Council, matching funds from the Polk Bros. Foundation through IFF, Jenner & Block LLP and many generous individuals.

CHRP Board President and ARC lead donor Elaine Cohen said, “It is very exciting for us to think of how much vitality ARC will add to Chicago—providing myriad opportunities not only to CHRP but to a host of ARC resident companies as well as tourists and the public looking to participate in an amazing variety of dance class offerings taught by professionals.”

About Chicago Human Rhythm Project

Founded in 1990, Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP) builds community by presenting American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts in world-class and innovative performance, education and community outreach programs. During the last 22 years, CHRP has produced multiple community-based collaborations involving shared revenue programs, concerts and touring opportunities, including:

• annual National Tap Dance Day concerts, featuring an array of tap and percussive dance artists

• a shared revenue program designed to assist Chicago’s budding tap community to build capacity through audience development, created in 2001

• Thanks 4 Giving, another innovative shared revenue program launched in 2005 as part of its annual Global Rhythms concerts at the Harris Theater, through which CHRP has partnered with more than 100 Chicago-based nonprofits to raise funds for a wide variety of service agencies

• participation in the 5th Anniversary Beijing International Dance Festival, assembling 70 artists to represent the United States
CHRP’s vision is to establish the first global center for American tap and percussive arts, which will create a complete ecosystem of education, performance, creation and community in a state-of-the-art facility uniting generations of diverse artists and the general public.

Friday, July 27, 2012

Chicago Human Rhythm Project presents JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance August 1, 2 & 4 at MCA

Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), in association with MCA Stage, presents JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance, three distinct programs featuring a host of extraordinary foot drummers and percussive arts masters. Tickets go on saile Monday! You can purchase tickets here.

JUBA! is the culminating event of Rhythm World, the oldest and most comprehensive summer festival of tap and percussive dance in the world.

Aug 1: Solitary Soles & New WorksOpening night features solos by the masters and monsters of American tap including Lane Alexander, Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Jason Janas, Derick K. Grant, Sam Weber, Yuji Uragami, and more. Program and performers subject to change.

Aug 2: The Growing Circle
Tap dance is a global phenomenon with some of its greatest practitioners centered in Tokyo. Yukiko’s Misumi brilliantly recreates and re-imagines many American tap classics through her ARTN Tap Dance Company while Yuji Uragami has transformed the art form aesthetically and technically. These pace setters are joined by BAM!, FootworKINGZ, Jump Rhythm Jazz Project, MADD Rhythms, and more. Program and performers are subject to change.

Aug 4: Juba - Masters of American Tap
An evening of new works, new concepts, and new collaborations. This program will feature some of the tops in tap including Derick K. Grant, Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, Sam Weber, Michelle Dorrance, Jason Janas, Yuji Uragami, and more. Program and performers are subject to change.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Maxwell’s at the Club Suspends Lunchtime Service for the Season, But It’s An Excellent Lunchtime Venue for Summertime Private Events

Chicagoans seeking a first rate location for hosting a group event this summer need look no further than Maxwell’s at the Club, the popular open-to-the-public restaurant at the East Bank Club (500 N. Kingsbury St., Chicago; 312-527-5800). During the summer months and through the end of September, when many East Bank Club members choose to eat lunch poolside at the newly expanded outdoor grill (open to members and their guests only), Maxwell’s suspends its lunch service, but during this period will be available for private lunchtime events. The restaurant will be open for business as usual at dinnertime (weekdays, 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.). The bar is open 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays, with live entertainment and a full dinner menu.


For more information on private event services at Maxwell’s at the Club, please contact Sydney Schwartz, Director of Catering, by phone at (312) 527-5800, ext. 241. Additional information is also available at the East Bank Club website, www.eastbankclub.com.

New Store openings at Westfield Old Orchard

Westfield Old Orchard is looking forward to welcoming several new high end retailers to the shopping center this fall. 

Iconic retailer, Michael Kors will be opening at Westfield Old Orchard.  Known for classic American design and sophisticated silhouettes, this high end retailer will bring to the shopping center luxurious women’s apparel, accessories and small leather goods.  Michael Kors is expected to open this fall next to Ann Taylor.

Engineering affordable electric cars since 2003, Telsa Motors will be opening a location at Westfield this fall near Nordstrom.  Telsa values sustainable energy and is one of the leading manufacturers of electric cars in the United States.  

Rolex will be opening a boutique operated by the 3,500 square foot C.D. Peacock located next to Tiffany & Co. near Nordstrom.  The world renowned timepiece crafter and the Chicago-based jeweler will have its grand opening this fall.

Hugo Boss will be added to the list of Westfield Old Orchard’s luxury retailers this fall. The men’s and women’s designer, known for its sleek and stylish collections worldwide, will be opening in part of the old Akira space near Nordstrom. 

eCosway will be setting up a new location at Westfield Old Orchard this summer.  The new retailer specializes in health, beauty and nutrition products and will be located near Champps Americana.

Located next to Coldwater Creek and The Gap, The North Face’s new 6,278 square foot store will carry all of the high endurance and high performance apparel, equipment and footwear that it is internationally known. This will be the third location in the Chicagoland area, joining others in the John Hancock Center in Chicago and Sherman Plaza in Evanston.

Fleming's hosts the "Under the Stars" Summer Wine Dinner, August 3

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (960 Milwaukee Avenue, Lincolnshire, IL 60069; 847-793-0333) will host the “Under the Stars” Summer Wine Dinner 7 p.m. August 3.  Guests will enjoy a special summer dinner featuring 90-point wines from Napa Valley and Washington State, paired with a five-course menu developed by Chef Partner, Roger Abuan.  The meal will be served on the beautiful outdoor patio and guests will enjoy commentary by special guest speaker Kelley Joerns from Chateau Ste. Michelle.  The cost is $100 per person, all inclusive.  Please call 847-793-0333 for reservations.

The meal will begin with an appetizer of Ceviche on Belgian Endive paired with DOMAINE STE. MICHELLE, Brut Columbia Valley NV.  The following course will offer Tomato, Watermelon, Cucumber and Feta Salad which will be paired with CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE, Pinot Gris Columbia Valley, 2010 – 89 pts. Wine Spectator.  The second course features Grilled Pork Tenderloin with balsamic and blackberry glaze and corn relish paired with NORTHSTAR, Merlot Columbia Valley, 2008 - 91 pts; Wine Enthusiast – 90 pts. Robert Parker.  The next course served will be New York Strip with a grilled Portobello mushroom and will be served with STAG'S LEAP, Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2009 – 90 pts. Robert Parker.  Finally the dessert course will feature Cherry Raspberry Buckle paired with CONN CREEK, Anthology Napa Valley, 2007 - 90 pts. Wine Enthusiast.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Westfield French Market continues to grow, adding new vendors

The Westfield French Market is off to a rewarding start as the European-style, Bensidoun USA backed outdoor market adds new vendors and welcomes area patrons as they flock to enjoy the market’s offerings. 

Added to the growing list of vendors including B True Bakery, Hahn Bakery, KAP Farm, Organo Gold Coffee, The Blue Olive, Fraternite and Notre Dame. Also joining the line-up are Provence Imports, featuring table linens direct from Provence; Twin Garden Farms, bringing to the market their Mirai Corn, and The Bakeman which will offer gluten free products, most notably the Zen Brownie. 

To make the trip to the market easier for shoppers, Westfield has recently added ‘dots’ to all the Maps and Directories around the shopping center to guide guests to the French Market area.  A-frame signs also have been placed at five of the major entrances to help navigate eager market shoppers through the center.

The Westfield French Market is open every Thursday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. through September and is located near Macy’s by the Koi Pond. It offers a variety of local artisan products including fresh produce, breads and cheeses and gifts for the home and family. For more information, call 847-673-6800.

Monday, July 23, 2012

Xtreme Bugs on display at Westfield Old Orchard

No need to be afraid of these creepy crawlers!  From July 24 to August 14, shoppers at Westfield Old Orchard (Skokie Boulevard & Old Orchard Road) can experience the invasion of Xtreme Bugs at the gigantic, state-of-the-art animatronic bug on display near Nordstrom.   If you can’t get enough, Westfield will be offering two free admission passes to Brookfield Zoo, including two passes to see the Xtreme Bugs exhibit, to all shoppers who spend $200 or more on their shopping trip.
Bring the family back to Westfield’s Xtreme Bugs exhibit from noon to 2 p.m. August 4 for some hands-on fun, where kids will enjoy making crafts and receive giveaways by the Brookfield Zoo.

For more information on the Xtreme Bugs Brookfield Zoo giveaway, contact the Westfield Old Orchard Concierge at 847-673-6800.


The North Shore Festival of Art returns to Westfield Old Orchard July 27


The fifth annual North Shore Festival of Art presented by Amdur Productions will once again return to Westfield Old Orchard.  July 27-29 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., North Shore and other Chicagoland residents can come and enjoy the weekend long festival celebrating more than 150 of the country’s finest artists.  Their one of a kind works will be featured throughout Westfield’s inner court of the shopping center and will showcase works constructed from an array of mediums that include ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, sculpture, mixed media, paintings, drawings, photography, printmaking, wood and furniture. The open-air exhibition will span throughout the center.

 Additional fun and prizes will complement the art festival as live music will be featured with performances from celebrated bands and musicians.  Children will enjoy a train, crafting projects and more.  To top things off, daily drawings will take place giving festival-goers the chance to receive “Art Buck$” to spend on a piece of art at any future 2012 Amdur Productions festival. 

Admission and parking for the North Shore Festival of Art is complimentary.


Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Bensidoun USA Opens Outdoor French Market at Prudential Plaza


The French market concept that embodies the notion of buying local and fresh has made its way to the Shops at Prudential Center (130 E. Randolph Dr.). This Wednesday marked a successful opening day with a healthy turnout of area shoppers. Managed by Bensidoun USA, this is their second installation of the outdoor market in Chicago. Their first Chicago open-air market is located at the Nettelhorst School campus in the Lakeview neighborhood.

The European style market is now open every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. until September 26 offering community members an unique opportunity to shop from local produce, artisan crafts and more provincial goods. 

Public markets have been a long-standing tradition in Europe — a place where people would gather daily to choose from the best merchandise their geographic region had to offer. The model is now coupled with sustainability as citizens aim to be more responsible consumers.  Bensidoun USA operates a variety of markets each catered to their specific communities.

“What really makes our French Markets unique is the support of the local communities where we operate,” said Sebastien Bensidoun, executive vice-president of Bensidoun USA. “Over the years, we’ve seen businesses grow and flourish in an often challenging economy. The Bensidoun family is truly devoted to supporting local small businesses and creating meaningful relationships within the communities it serves. Many of our vendor and customer relationships go back 15 years to the very beginning of our US efforts.” 

In 1953, Rolland Bensidoun, like his father and grandfather before him, began managing open-air markets in France. For nearly 60 years, Rolland Bensidoun expanded his operations, introducing his sons, Pascal and Sebastien to the family-run and operated business. Today, The Bensidoun Family manage 32 markets in the City of Paris including six indoor markets, the Famous Antique market of Porte de Vanves and the world famous certified organic market "Marche Raspail", as well as in New York, Michigan and the Chicagoland area. For more information, please visit http://www.bensidounusa.com.



Friday, July 13, 2012

New summer menu items at Chicago French Market vendor Vanille Patisserie

The Bastille Day Celebration at Chicago French Market kicks off tomorrow at 1 p.m.  In addition to the French bubbly and performance by Greta Pope, market vendor Vanille Patisserie will be adding to the fun.  Vanille is introducing two new entremets by Chef Dimitri Fayard , which will be available to enjoy during the celebration. 
The Seyla features Lemon Mousse, red fruit compote and brown butter honey Bisquit wrapped in white chocolate and topped with fresh fruit salsa and baked meringue for $6.85

The Tarte aux Figue features baked Mascarpone cream topped with figs and an almond medley for $5.75

Enjoy them at the market or take a few home!  In addition to offering new menu items, Vanille Patisserie also will have a croquembouche on display and will be sampling mini cream puffs for patrons enjoy.  For more information visit www.frenchmarketchicago.com.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Sip & Shop Wine Series continues with Sip, Shop SAVOR, July 26

Sip, Shop SAVOR is Thursday, July 26.  The second installment of the Westfield Summer Wine Series will get you on track to be the perfect summer hostess.  With grilling season in full swing, participants will learn how to give the best barbeque on the block with cooking demos and decorating tips from industry professionals.  Prizes and giveaways will be provided by participating Westfield retailers. Guests must be 21 and over to enjoy this complimentary event. Space is limited and registration is required.  For more information and to RSVP, visit www.westfield.com/oldorchard.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Fleming's celebrates Summer With Steak & Sangria Prix Fixe Options

With long summer days rolling into warm summer nights, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar is celebrating summer with a series of Summer Lovin’ Steak & Sangria Prix Fixe dinners that will take guests on a culinary world tour. This summer menu series, offered July 2 through August 26, will introduce a new steak and sangria pairing every two weeks, each featuring an artfully inspired selection of fresh, seasonal ingredients and internationally inspired flavors.


Every Summer Lovin’ Steak & Sangria menu features a summer salad, a uniquely seasoned specialty prime New York Strip Steak with a vibrant topping and a decadent dessert for $39.95*. Each menu also includes a suggested hand-crafted sangria pairing for $7.95*. Guests visiting the bar or patio, will also have an opportunity to enjoy the series of refreshing, seasonal sangrias.

Summer Lovin’ Steak & Sangria menus include:

July 2 through 15

Fresh Summer Greens, sliced strawberries, Danish blue cheese crumbles, candied walnuts and a red wine vinaigrette

Prime New York Strip with Jamaican jerk rub, chimichurri sauce, roasted pineapple salsa and farm-fresh corn salad

Chilled White Chocolate Almond Soufflé with a graham cracker crust and blueberry sauce, drizzled with housemade caramel

Optional Pairing: Silver Sun Sangria - Red Diamond Merlot infused with fresh fruit of the season and topped with Milagro Silver Tequila, a touch of Crème de Cassis, muddled blackberries and fresh lemon juice


July 16 through 29

Baby Spinach Salad with fresh pears, seasoned bacon, crumbled goat cheese, toasted Marcona almonds and a red onion vinaigrette

Prime New York Strip with garlic herb butter and Burrata cheese, Tuscan-style, blistered grape tomatoes and a balsamic glaze drizzle

Mixed Berry Shortcake with Grand Marnier-soaked strawberries and blueberries, pistachio-orange buttermilk shortcake, and Sambuca cream

Optional Pairing: Sangria Sol - Viñedos Terranoble Sauvignon Blanc, Solerno Blood Orange, Stoli Peach Vodka and fresh peaches, honeydew melon, oranges and lemons


July 30 through August 12

Butter Lettuce and Pear Salad with goat cheese, candied walnuts, crispy onions, and a lemon vinaigrette

Prime New York Strip with a sweet and spicy rub, topped with a savory tomato and roasted red pepper butter and chopped marcona almonds, and served with a side of summer zucchini slaw

Fresh Peach Cobbler with a brown sugar oat streusel and topped with vanilla ice cream

Optional Pairing: South Seas Sangria - Viñedos Terranoble Sauvignon Blanc, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, and Peach Schnapps with fresh peaches, honeydew melon,
oranges and lemons

August 13 through 26

Beefsteak Tomato & Mozzarella Salad with arugula and a red onion balsamic vinaigrette

Prime New York Strip topped with crispy gorgonzola and served with grilled asparagus, pickled fennel and baby golden beets

Lemon-Poppy Seed Butter Cookies with vanilla ice cream and a warm apple-ginger sauce

Optional Pairing: Sailors Sunset Sangria - Red
Diamond Merlot, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum and Peach Schnapps, with fresh peaches, oranges and lemons


Offer is available at both Fleming’s Chicago (25 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60611 312-329-9463) and Fleming’s Lincolnshire (960 Milwaukee Ave. Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-793-0333).  For additional information visit www.flemingssteakhouse.com.

 *Excluding tax and gratuity. Sangrias are sold separately. Fleming’s abides by all local and state liquor laws.





Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Bastille Day 2012 at Chicago French Market


Chicago French Market is hosting its annual Bastille Day celebration Saturday, July 14 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.  Grab your favorite French beret and come celebrate the French National Holiday.  Bastille Day is celebrated in honor of the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789.  It marked the start of the French Revolution, and ultimately the freedom of the French people with the beginning of a new form of modern government. Chicago French Market is happy to celebrate this day of independence with everyone.

This year, for the third time, the fabulous international entertainer, Greta Pope, will grace the stage performing several French cabaret and English favorites including C'est Si Bon, I Love Paris, and Mambo de Paris among others.  She has delighted audiences around the world with her beautiful voice and musical styling.

Also in honor of Bastille Day, Pastoral will be celebrating with a French inspired pairing; French Cheese & Wine. The Pastoral team will guide you through a free sampling of items from farms, orchards, vineyards and distilleries from France.


Don’t miss out on the festivities!  Come and sip on French bubbly in celebration, catch once in a lifetime performances and browse the market for delicious French delicacies.


Monday, July 9, 2012

La Sorella di Francesca Eat & Earn July 11

La Sorella di Francesca (18 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville, IL 60540, 630-961-2706) is participating in an Eat & Earn program July 11.  Dine in or carry out at Francesca’s and 20% of the day's sales go towards building a house for a local war veteran.  For more information visit www.nrfov.org.


Friday, July 6, 2012

Fleming's Summer Sundays Prime Rib Dinner

It's the end of a long summer weekend, and who has time to prepare a special meal? Fleming’s chefs do, and it's the perfect occasion for your family to spend some quality time together. So make a date to come in and enjoy the popular Sunday Prime Rib Dinner. Fleming’s is offering this complete 3-course menu for $29.95* per guest every Sunday through September 2 in addition to its other menu selections. The Prime Rib Dinner is on the Fleming's menu every Sunday all year long, but only at this special price for summer.

The Summer Sunday Prime Rib Dinner features 12 ounces of succulent Prime Rib, served with a trio of sauces, your choice of The Wedge or Fleming’s Caesar salad, your choice of one side dish from Fleming’s menu and your choice of one housemade dessert.  Want to add a bottle of wine for the table?  Fleming’s is offering a bottle of B. R. Cohn North Coast Silver Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2008/2009 for only $40*.

Come to Fleming’s Chicago (25 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60611 312-329-9463) or Fleming’s Lincolnshire (960 Milwaukee Ave. Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-793-0333) and enjoy an amazing dinner at an unbeatable price.



*excluding tax and gratuity. Our Prime Rib Dinner is available every Sunday, but at the special summer price of $29.95 per guest through September 2nd only. Fleming’s abides by all local and state liquor laws.


Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Chipotle Raspberry Steak recipe from Oh, Olive!

 Check out this delicious steak recipe from Chicago French Market's Oh, Olive! just in time for 4h of July!



Oh, Olive! Chipotle Raspberry Steak

If grilling is your game, try this Oh, Olive! recipe with our Chipotle extra virgin olive oil and Raspberry Balsamic vinegar. It’s great for steak!  You’ll want left-over’s, but there probably won’t be any!

Use the sauce as a barbecue sauce, marinade, a glaze, or a dip.
Sauce:
•    3 Tablespoons Chipotle Extra Virgin Oil
•    1/2 cup small diced onion
•    2 teaspoons Oh, Olive! Garlic Seasoning
•    2 teaspoons chipotle chiles in adobo, chopped (can substitute other chiles)
•    2 pints fresh raspberries, rinsed
•    1/2 cup Raspberry Balsamic vinegar
•    1/3 cup brown sugar
•    1/2 teaspoon salt
Preparation: In a medium saucepan, heat Chipotle oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until soft and slightly caramelized, 6 minutes. Add the garlic to the pan and sauté for 1 minute. Add the chipotle chiles and cook, stirring continuously, for 1 minute. Add the raspberries and cook until soft, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the vinegar and stir to deglaze the pan. Add the sugar and salt, and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until thickened and reduced by half, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool before using.
For a clear glaze, strain through a fine mesh strainer to extract as much liquid as possible.
Once the sauce is made, you can make your steak two ways: 

1.     Put the sauce in a Ziploc bag and marinate the steak (4-6) for 2 hours. Grill or broil as usual until done.

2.    Grill or broil your steak until it is ¾ done, baste the steak the last 2-3 minutes until the sauce on top is bubbly.

Eat and Enjoy!

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

July Events at Chicago French Market


 July 4, 2012

The Chicago French Market will be closed in observance of the holiday



July 5, 2012 - Rush Hour Music with Steve Justman

4-7 p.m. FREE

Folk musician Steve Justman joins the rush hour crowds from 4-7pm. Justman is a native Chicagoan and specializes in Americana music.  He has performed in many of the best acoustic venues in the Chicago-area and is excited to return to the French Market!



 July 11, 2012 - Lunch hour Music with Annalee Hooson

11-2 p.m. FREE

Annalee Hooson will be performing many of her original songs as well some easy listening cover songs.  Break up your day and grab your coworker for this free Hump Day concert!


July 14, 2012 - Bastille Day

1-3 p.m. FREE

You are invited to this year’s Bastille Day at The Chicago French Market. 

Enjoy the French National Day sipping French bubbly and stay for an enticing cabaret performances by the famed Greta Pope. 





 July 16 - July 20, 2012 - LevelUp Promotion

7am -7:30 p.m. FREE

Join us for LevelUp Week at Chicago French Market July 16-20!

Pay with LevelUp at the Chicago French Market July 16-20 and get $10 off at any LevelUp business.

LevelUp is the revolutionary way to pay with your phone and get rewarded all over Chicago.  You can pay with LevelUp at over 300 businesses in Chicago, including a dozen in the Chicago French Market!

During the week of July 16, get $10 off at LevelUp businesses when you pay with your smart phone!  To redeem your $10, head to the Chicago French Market and scan one of our posters. Have questions? Ask the LevelUp staff members – who will be present at the market throughout the week.


July 19, 2012 - Rush Hour Music with Jenny Bienemann

4-7 p.m. FREE

Stop in before your commute home and enjoy several original songs performed by Jenny Bienemann.  Her lyrical song-work paired with jazz guitar creates a relaxing and wonderful concert experience.


July 25, 2012 - Lunch hour Music with Annalee Hooson

11-2 p.m. FREE

Make your lunch more enjoyable with The Chicago French Market’s free Lunch Hour Music concert. This time around Annalee Hooson will be performing cover songs as well as some originals.

Specials and features at Chicago French Market in July

Check out some great deals and specials happening this month at Chicago French Market!

Delightful Pastries

Delightful Pastries has relocated within the Chicago French Market to the center aisle next to Kotel Kosher.  To celebrate the move, new offerings have been added to the menu.

The new savory offering will feature Volcanoes, buns stuffed with scalloped potatoes, pancetta, and caramelized onions topped with gruyere. A new dessert bar is now available as well: chocolate raspberry jam, made from scratch, on top of a cookie topped with nuts and cinnamon streusel. Also available is a new gluten free offering, chocolate pebble cookies and chocolate bark, and two new tortes; passion fruit and chocolate mousse torte

Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine

Pastoral is celebrating Bastille Day at Chicago French Market with a free wine and cheese tasting.  Try some of the nation’s most delicious French wine and cheese selections and other accompaniments on the French National Holiday. 

Don’t forget to share all those amazing artisan foods that you tasted during the 2nd Annual Pastoral Artisan Producer Fest. To keep the memory alive, every month Pastoral will sell items from vendors introduced at the Producer Festival.  It’s the perfect opportunity to introduce these artisan foods to your friends and family. 

Ames Honey from the Ames Farm in Watertown, MN will be offering raw honey in single-varietal flavors. Quince and Apple Preserves from Madison, WI is selling some of its inventive and seasonal spreads that showcase the outstanding flavor of the fresh, largely local ingredients that go into its preserves.

Valentine Vodka in Detroit, MI crafts vodka like no other.  Founder and Master Distiller, Rifino Valentine spent four years experimenting with distilling techniques before becoming one of the first distilleries in the world to use a multi-grain recipe.  Featured at Pastoral this month will be a proprietary blend that features locally grown Red Michigan wheat, barley and corn.


RAW

Look out for this Chicago French Market vendor if you will be attending the Taste of Chicago July 11-15 in Grant Park.  Stop by and visit their booth!


Saigon Sisters

Saigon Sisters is always here to bring you the latest and most unique products in the market. Check out some new products that will give you a little boost next time you stop in.

Spindrift Sodas are now available and are truly refreshing. Made with sparkling water, fresh squeezed juice and fruit purees, they pair perfectly with the delicious Spring Rolls, Banh Mis, and Rice bowls. Try the Half and Half brewed tea and lemonade. Delicious!

Who doesn't love premium made Vosges chocolates? Saigon Sisters now carries the new Wild Ophelia line with amazing flavors including New Orleans Chili, Beef Jerky, Southern Peach Hibiscus, and Peanut Butter and Banana.

Red Boat fish sauce is now being sold at Saigon Sisters, for the chef who’s looking to try something new. Also available are a selection of great cookbooks for the Asian cook in your house.  Pick up titles like Momofuku, Into the Vietnamese Kitchen, and the latest one from Andrea Nguyen’s Asian Tofu.


Wisma

Wisma is delighted to introduce its new summer menu which includes an assortment of new entrees, salads, sandwiches and pasta dishes.  Receiving rave reviews are the Baracoa Fajitas, the Vegetable Thai Curry, the Ocean Raised Salmon with Pesto and Semolina Shells, and the fabulous Spinach and Strawberry Salad.  As always, the food is affordable, organic, local and absolutely delicious.  Bring some of Wisma’s sandwiches, spreads/dips and crackers to your next picnic or outing—you won’t be disappointed.

The Hot Dog Guy opens at Chicago French Market


The Chicago French Market (131 N Clinton, 312-575-0306) welcomes The Hot Dog Guy, a new vendor set to open in July.   The unmistakable sights, sounds, smells and tastes of a traditional Chicago hot dog stand will soon infuse the downtown French Market with a bit of traditional Chicago flavor.

The Hot Dog Guy, Chicago’s own Grant Greenberg, is serving up hot dogs and Polish the way Chicagoans prefer: all Vienna Beef products on a poppy seed bun, tomato, onion, hot peppers, mustard, relish, celery salt, and a big pickle spear. He is committed to preserving the authentic Chicago atmosphere and food that goes along with it.

Greenberg is the grandson of a Superdawg drive-in employee, who later opened a Chicago-area family deli of his own.  He left a career in the corporate world to carry on the family's long-standing passion of Chicago comfort food.  Delivering high-quality products and personality is the recipe for success that was passed down to Greenberg from his grandfather.


Greenberg, a master of the “Art of the Cart” and graduate of Hot Dog University, is eager to line up alongside the Chicago French Market’s wonderful vendors and restaurants. The Hot Dog Guy’s grand opening is set for early July in the Metra-Market at Ogilvie Transportation Center.


“What’s better than a Chicago style hot dog?” Greenberg asks. “Happiness is in the hot dog.”

Monday, July 2, 2012

Fleming's offering new 5-6-7 menu all day long this July 4th

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, is making it easy for you this Fourth of July!  On Wednesday, July 4 Fleming’s Chicago (25 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60611 312-329-9463) and Fleming’s Lincolnshire (960 Milwaukee Ave. Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-793-0333) will be offering its 5-6-7 menu all day long!  No need to throw anything on the grill this time, the nightly bar menu, “5 for $6 ’til 7,” is keeping the delicious food flowing until 10 p.m. at both Fleming’s locations in celebration of Independence Day. 

The new 5-6-7 menu offers a terrific selection of appetizers, premium cocktails (including a 99-calorie option!) and distinctive wines by the glass for just $6 each.  Mix and match any item from the menu to create your perfect summer pairing of drinks and bites.  The new updated summer menu is hard to pass up with light and fun summer options and some old favorites.

Take of break this year from your summer holiday responsibilities and let Fleming’s do the work! 

5 COCKTAILS
TROPICAL MARTINI, Malibu Coconut Rum
PURELY FRESH MARGARITA, Sauza Gold Tequila
VINTAGE VODKA MARTINI, Smirnoff Vodka
BLOOD ORANGE FIZZ, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur
*BIKINITINI, Svedka Clementine Vodka

5 WINES BY THE GLASS
SPARKLING, Mas Fi Cava, Spain
RIESLING, Dr. L, Germany
PINOT GRIGIO BLEND, Borealis, Oregon
PINOT NOIR, Mark West, California
CABERNET, 14 Hands, Washington

5 APPETIZERS
BAKED BRIE IN PUFF PASTRY
SWEET CHILE CALAMARI
ROASTED MUSHROOM RAVIOLI
TENDERLOIN CARPACCIO
JUMBO SHRIMP COCKTAIL


THE PRIME BURGER, Cheese and Bacon



Hours and offerings are subject to change in compliance with local or state liquor laws.  Prices in effect from open to close in certain markets (IA, IL, LA, MO, NE, TX).  Liquor by the drink tax embedded for cocktail; liquor by the drink and sales tax embedded for wine (TN).  Due to local and/or state liquor laws, Fleming’s is unable to offer alcoholic beverages on the “5 for 6 ‘til 7” menu in IN, Charlotte, NC, OK, RI, UT.  Fleming’s LA Live location (Los Angeles, CA) offers the 567 bar menu from 4-6 pm, 7 days a week.

Westfield Old Orchard's WFamily series presents "Summertime Fun" July 7!

Summer is officially here and Westfield Old Orchard (Skokie Boulevard & Old Orchard Road) wants to celebrate by taking you down to the shore.  Saturday, July 7 from 11:30 a.m. -12: 30 p.m., Westfield’s Wfamily series will present its monthly hour-long story time and craft session for North Shore and Chicagoland families and their youngsters.  This month, families will enjoy a beach themed program entitled “Summertime Fun” with a reading presented by a staff member from the Skokie Public Library featuring a story about visiting the shoreline and an arts and craft project using beach sands.  Bring the family to the Westifield’s Barnes & Noble for the fun in the sun themed event.  This event is complimentary and registration is not required.