Celebrate International Bacon Day Saturday with Delightful Pastries

As if we needed a day to celebrate everything bacon, did you know that tomorrow (Saturday, August 31) is International Bacon Day? The official observance, concocted by the residents of the Crag in Bedford, Massachusetts in 2000, is held on the Saturday before Labor Day in the United States. Bacon day celebrations typically include social gatherings during which participants create and consume dishes containing bacon, including bacon-themed breakfasts, lunches, dinners, desserts, and drinks.

Are you excited? It seems that the world is. Ford Motor Company even got into the action this year. If you're looking for a new car but just can't seem to find one that suitably expresses your love for pork products, Ford is feting Bacon Day with "custom bacon graphics that pork purists can have installed on their new 2014 Fiesta."

Closer to home (and more economically feasible), we suggest that you stop by Delightful Pastries on Wells St. or at the Chicago French Market to partake in one of its many bacon offerings. The He Lives!Sandwich (Peanut Butter, Grape Jelly, Lean Crispy Bacon, Banana with a house secret sauce on all-butter croissant, $8.25); The Three Piggly Wiggly Sandwich (Polish ham, lean crispy bacon, pan-fried pork cutlet, pickles served on an "everything bun", $10.00), and the Volcano (potato, onion and pancetta tart wrapped in flaky dough with melted Gruyere cheese on top, $5.50) are customer favorites. Or try the house-made Split Pea Soup with peas, potato, carrot and bacon or Clam Chowder with Bacon ($4.00). The made-to-order Breakfast Sandwich (at the Wells St. store only) includes scrambled egg, bacon, ham, Swiss cheese on house-made butter croissant, $6.95, delicious.

If you're looking for other ideas, visit BaconToday.com for its top 10 things to do on IBD, some of which can perpetuate the holiday spirit long past Aug. 31.

Chicago French Market - WISMA Frozen Pizzas, Ice Cream and Sorbets

Wisma


Wisma at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661) now offers a greater selection of made and prepared frozen pizzas, ice cream and sorbets.  Take home a white pizza ($10), chicken & pesto pizza ($12), veggie pizza ($12) or a 3 meat pizza ($14) for dining made easy.  Dinner isn’t complete without dessert.  Homemade ice creams are available daily with selections like: Vanilla, Chocolate Hazelnut, Amarena Cherry, and Mint Strawberry ($3-4) and homemade sorbets: Lemon Basil and Pink Lemonade ($3). 

For more information call 312-382-1805 or visit http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/wisma

Chicago French Market - Wednesday, August 28 Lunch Hour Music - Chris Goranson

Wednesday, August 28 Lunch Hour Music - Chris Goranson
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Complimentary

Noted Chicago jazz guitarist and Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661; 312-575-0306) favorite, Chris Goranson returns 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 28 for the market’s lunch time entertainment. Goranson is a guitar teacher with a degree in Jazz Performance from Northern Illinois University. Currently, he plays in a rock band called OurGlass, who recently performed for JBTV.

Chicago French Market - Sam's Gourmet Lasagna and Pasta Test-Taste Opportunity

Sam’s Gourmet Lasagna and Pasta


Having trouble deciding which lasagna, mac n' cheese or pasta you’d like for lunch? Sam's Gourmet Lasagna & Pasta at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661) has the solution. This August, Sam's is providing customers with the opportunity to test-taste each of its delicious selections. Samples are available every day from 7am-9am; 11am-1pm and 5pm - 6pm.

Also this month, the purchase of any hot item will be accompanied by Lasagna of your choice from their GRAB N GO! section ($5).
For more information call 312-775-0057 or visit http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/sams-lasagna-pasta

Celebrate National Waffle Day August 24 and 25 at Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook

August 24, 2013 is National Waffle Day. If you've been craving an exquisitely warm and delicious waffle, now is the time to head to Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, 847-205-4433) because this remarkable North Shore restaurant is celebrating National Waffle Day this weekend, August 24 and 25. It's well worth the drive to enjoy chef/owners Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris, two of Chicago's most highly regarded culinary stars, preparing waffles, which are among their favorite treats.

Prairie Grass Cafe's Peaches & Ice Cream Waffle features the tastiest local peaches from "Mick Klug Farm & Orchard," topped with a scoop of homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream ($11) while the Caramel Banana Waffle is a fluffy Belgium-style waffle with brûléed banana and salted caramel sauce ($10), both available on the Cafe's brunch menu.

Did you know that the first waffles originated in Ancient Greece?  The Greeks would cook flat cakes called "obelios" between two metal pans held over a fire. It only stands to reason that Prairie Grass Cafe wants you to celebrate with your family and friends.

Waffles, as we've come to enjoy, are called American waffles and vary greatly from their Greek ancestors.

Waffles in North America date back to 1869 when a man named Cornelius Swartwout received the first U.S. patent for a waffle iron. They were popularized in the United States during the 1964 New York World's Fair by Maurice Vermersch of Brussels, Belgium, and was named the Bel-Gem Waffle.

Despite its name, the "Belgian waffle" doesn't exist in Belgium. There, a somewhat similar waffle is called the Brussels waffle. Brussels waffles in Belgium are hard and crisp on the outside as opposed to a traditional North American variety which uses a lighter batter.
 
Call Prairie Grass Cafe (847-205-4433) to secure for a reservation for this weekend and celebrate!

Celebrate National Sponge Cake Day August 23 at Delightful Pastries

One might ask who thinks of these crazy food holidays but for fans of sponge cake, August 23 is cause to celebrate. Sponge cake is the perfect dessert to enjoy at the end of a warm summer day. It is light and fluffy and has just enough sweetness to cleanse the palate after a meal.

While traditional sponge cake recipes call for three very basic ingredients: sugar, eggs, and flour, perfecting the sponge cake is more difficult than one may imagine. According to Dobra Bielinsky, chef/partner of Chicago's Delightful Pastries, the key to the perfect sponge cake is in the technique. "The batter must be beaten thoroughly in order to create volume," she says.

Did you know that sponge cake is actually one of the oldest and simplest forms of cake? Recipes for it date back as far as 1615. Variations on the theme of a cake lifted, partially or wholly, by trapped air in the batter exist in most places where European patisserie has spread, including the French Génoise, the Portuguese pão-de-ló, the Anglo-Jewish "plava" and the possibly ancestral Italian pan di Spagna ("Spanish bread").

 Our favorite at Delightful Pastries is the Berry Decadent Sponge Cake ($5.25/slice; $42/8 inch, serving up to 12 people) - deliciously moist, tender, spongy, open-grained cake topped with butter cream and berries.

To celebrate National Sponge Cake Day, stop by one of their three locations to enjoy a slice or take on home to share with the family. Delightful Pastries is located at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton Ave., Chicago; 312-234-9644), Old Town (1710 N. Wells St., Chicago; 312-255-0724), or Jefferson Park (5927 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago; 773-545-7215).

Chicago French Market - Raw’s Coconut Yogurt with fresh blueberries ($9)

Raw.

Raw’s Coconut Yogurt with fresh blueberries ($9) is the perfect treat this August.  This delightful grab and go snack, that can be purchased at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661), is free of a dairy, lactose, soy and gluten, perfect for vegans or customers with food allergies, and is made from young coconut meat.

For more information call 312-831-2729 or visit http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/raw

Delightful Pastries in Chicago Takes Homemade Sandwiches, Soups and Other Savory Specialties to a New Level of Goodness

Many delighted health conscious Chicagoans have found that Delightful Pastries, one of Chicago’s most beloved bakeries, is also the creator of wonderfully fresh homemade sandwiches and soups that are as healthy as they are delicious. Delightful Pastry’s focus on savory foods is readily apparent at two of their locations: the Delightful Pastries Café and Bakery in Old Town (1710 N. Wells St., Chicago; 312-255-0724) and the popular Delightful Pastries kiosk at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton, Chicago; 312-234-9644).

“Many of our customers bypass the sweets and instead go for our savory creations,” said partner Dobra Bielinski. “We’re more than happy to please them with a wide selection of sandwiches and soups, all made from scratch. We make these dishes with the same attention to quality and freshness as we do all of our baked goods.” Partner Robert Hawryszczuk takes pride in Delightful Pastries’ homemade offerings. “We use family recipes to make our sandwiches and soups," he said. "Even the sauces in the sandwiches, such as homemade horseradish sauce. We believe that every customer deserves the best quality food just like how we make them at home.”

All Delightful Pastries sandwich ingredients are freshly prepared in-house without preservatives or other fillers. “Our guests appreciate the fresh deliciousness of our sandwiches,” said Bielinski. “If you can imagine a sandwich where the bread is just-baked on premises, the meat is local and all natural, the bacon is lean, thick-cut and locally cured, and where the ham and pork cutlets are from a local Polish butcher, then you have a good idea as to why our sandwiches have so many fans. At the Wells location, we have vegan sour dough bread and gluten free options for those who have these special requirements.”

Sandwich favorites, available at both Delightful Pastries locations, include The Polish ($8), with Polish ham, Swiss cheese, homemade horseradish sauce, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, tomato and field greens, served on a fresh butter croissant; the Thanksgiving ($8), hand carved turkey breast, Swiss cheese, homemade horseradish, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, cranberry sauce, tomato and field greens on a fresh butter croissant; The Fusion ($8), “Ceviche Style” shrimp salad, mayonnaise, spice, pickles and field greens on a fresh butter croissant, and The Three Piggly Wigglys ($10), made with Polish ham, lean crispy bacon, pan fried pork cutlet and pickles, served on an “everything” bun. Peanut butter lovers can’t resist the He Lives! ($8), with peanut butter, grape jelly, lean crispy bacon, banana, house secret sauce, all served on a fresh butter croissant.
 
Signature Specialty Sandwiches at the Wells Street location the unique B.E.L.T. Sandwich ($8.50), made with peppered bacon, egg salad, baby lettuces, tomato, and served on a homemade croissant. The Tuna Sandwich ($8.75) features Mediterranean tuna salad (with artichokes, sundried tomatoes, olives, and vinaigrette), topped with baby arugula and served on sunflower rye sourdough bread.

Delightful Pastries’ soups ($5.50 per 12 oz. serving at Wells Street Location and $4.00 per 12 oz. serving at French Market) are equally fresh and delicious, based around all natural soup stocks that are made from scratch, either chicken or vegan. “We’re pleased to offer a nice variety of freshly made soups,” said Bielinski. “Our guests have discovered that these filling, healthful recipes are perfect any time of the year. Served with our freshly baked bread, they are an amazing meal onto themselves.”

On the lighter soup side are the Chicken Noodle Soup and the chilled Gazpacho (seasonal and vegan). Heartier soups include Split Pea with Ham, New England Clam Chowder, Spring Harvest Soup, Beef Mushroom Barley and the Cream-free, Gluten-free Butternut Squash soup.

The savory collection at the both locations also include freshly baked Quiches, Frittatas and Spinach Lamb Pie, salads, and the to-die-for Pierogi, which have been Delightful Pastries signature items since the beginning.

Chicago French Market - Thursday, August 22 Rush Hour Music - Steve Justman

Thursday, August 22 Rush Hour Music - Steve Justman
4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Complimentary

Folk musician Steve Justman will once again entertain lunchtime crowds this August.  Justman, a Chicago area musician who specializes in Americana music, has performed in many venues across the Chicago. Don’t miss his return August 22 at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661; 312-575-0306) from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Go Nuts. Two Days Slated to Honor the Pecan – August 20 and 21

Celebrate with a Delicious Delightful Pastries’ Chocolate Pecan Bourbon Pie

If you’re a fan of pecans, you’ll go nuts about two upcoming holidays. Tuesday, August 20 is 

National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day. And, if that isn’t good enough, Wednesday, August 21 is National Pecan Torte Day.

Delightful Pastries is celebrating at all three of its locations (Chicago French Market, N. Wells St., and Jefferson Park) by offering their delicious Chocolate Pecan Bourbon Pie ($5.25/mini pie; $25/8-inch pie) by executive pastry chef and owner Dobra Bielinski (recipe below). Delightful Pastry also has the Chocolate Pecan Pie available without Bourbon.
Here’s a tidbit that will pique your interest. Did you know that pecans contain zinc, which boosts testosterone? Zinc is the reason people think oysters are aphrodisiacs. We bet you're in the mood for a slice now!

Not just for Thanksgiving, pecan pie is a Southern staple and for good reason. There’s nothing quite like the smell of its warm, buttery crust and gooey, nutty center coming out of the oven. 

The origin of the pecan pie is a little flaky.  Claims have been made of the dish existing in the early 1800s in Louisiana, but this does not appear to be backed up by recipes or literature. Attempts to trace the dish's origin have not found any recipes dated earlier than 1897, and well-known cookbooks such as Fannie Farmer and The Joy of Cooking did not include this dessert before 1940. 

Some have stated that the French invented pecan pie soon after settling in New Orleans, after being introduced to the pecan nut by Native Americans. Pecan pie may be a variant of chess pie, which is made with a similar butter-sugar-egg custard.

Whatever the history, it holds a well-deserved spot on your dinner menu.

Most pecan pie recipes call for a mix of eggs, butter, sugar, vanilla, salt and syrup or molasses poured into a pastry shell. Adding melting chocolate or bourbon are popular variations of the classic. Regardless, a scoop of fresh vanilla ice cream is always a welcome addition.

Delightful Pastries’ gives it a welcoming twist, adding bittersweet chocolate and bourbon to make a perfect pie for any occasion. 

About Delightful Pastries
Founded in 1989, the Delightful Pastries is family-owned and operated, and is one of Chicago’s most beloved bakeries. The partnership includes mother Stasia Hawryszczuk, who manages the original Jefferson Park location with her daughter Dobra Hawryszczuk Bielinski. Dobra also oversees the Old Town location, and her brother Robert Hawryszczuk, along with his wife, Nico Hua, operates the Chicago French Market location. 

From its roots as the baker of authentic homemade Polish specialties prepared according to European baking traditions that have been handed down from generation to generation, Delightful Pastries has expanded its delicious offering of fresh products to include a wide range of breads, brownies and bars, pastries, croissants, cakes, tortes, pies, macaroons, cookies and savory items such as soups, sandwiches, salads and quiches. 

Delightful Pastries has been featured in numerous local and national publications including the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, all local television news outlets and even the Tonight Show.

The original Delightful Pastries location is at 5927 W. Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, in the Jefferson Park neighborhood (phone: 773-545-7215). Store hours are Tuesday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; closed on Monday. The Old Town Chicago location, which includes the Café, is at 1710 N. Wells St., just north of North Avenue (phone: 312-255-0724). Store hours are Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Chicago French Market location is at 131 N. Clinton Ave., Chicago (phone: 312-234-9644). Store hours are Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on Sundays.

About Delightful Pastries Founded in 1989, the Delightful Pastries is family-owned and operated, and is one of Chicago’s most beloved bakeries. The partnership includes mother Stasia Hawryszczuk, who manages the original Jefferson Park location with her daughter Dobra Hawryszczuk Bielinski. Dobra also  oversees the Old Town location, and her brother Robert Hawryszczuk, along with his wife, Nico Hua, operates the Chicago French Market location. From its roots as the baker of authentic homemade Polish specialties prepared according to European baking traditions that have been handed down from generation to generation, Delightful Pastries has expanded its delicious offering of fresh products to include a wide range of breads, brownies and bars, pastries, croissants, cakes, tortes, pies, macaroons, cookies and savory items such as soups, sandwiches, salads and quiches. Delightful Pastries has been featured in numerous local and national publications including the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, all local television news outlets and even the Tonight Show. The original Delightful Pastries location is at 5927 W. Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, in the Jefferson Park neighborhood (phone: 773-545-7215). Store hours are Tuesday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; closed on Monday. The Old Town Chicago location, which includes the Café, is at 1710 N. Wells St., just north of North Avenue (phone: 312-255-0724). Store hours are Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Chicago French Market location is at 131 N. Clinton Ave., Chicago (phone: 312-234-9644). Store hours are Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on Sundays. For more information about Delightful Pastries, including catering, delivery, and wholesale services, please send an email to info@delightfulpastries.com or visit the website at www.delightfulpastries.com. # # # Delightful Pastries’ chocolate pecan bourbon pie By: Executive Pastry Chef & Owner, Dobra Bielinski 6 ounces butter, at room temperature 1 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup corn syrup 1/4 cup molasses 5 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 6 ounces pecan halves 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped 2 tablespoons bourbon 1 9-inch pie shell Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In an electric mixer, beat the butter with the sugar till smooth. Add the corn syrup and molasses, then the flour and mix well. Beat in the eggs one by one, scraping down after each egg; add the vanilla extract and salt. Fold the pecans and chocolate by hand, add the bourbon. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, till the top is dry and the filling is barely jiggling. Let cool. 8 servings.

The Joke’s on You. Art You Can Laugh At Opening at Ready Coffee’s ORNOT Gallery August 21

 

Art can be funny -- sometimes inadvertently -- but rarely do we see a show pointedly dedicated to funny art, especially at a coffee shop! But Art You Can Laugh At, hosted by resident comedian Nathyn Gibson at Ready Coffee's ORNOT Gallery (1562 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, 773-360-7041) is set to open August 21. Packed with local and regional comedians, this is one comedy show not to miss. Get READY to revel in silliness with the sole purpose of making us guffaw and hiccup, laugh until we cry, and maybe even roll on the floor with laughter. The showcase is complimentary to boot and ORNOT Gallery plans to host similar comedic events bi-weekly with the first slated from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, August 21.

The inaugural performance will feature comics Tyler Jackson, Reena Calm, Conor Delehanty, Odinaka Ezeokoli, Katie McVay and Adam Burke. No reservations are necessary. Seating is limited to first come with plenty of standing room. Be there or be square.

About the Performers

Tyler Jackson
Writer and comedian based out of Chicago doing many other things throughout the day that prevent my death. Tyler Jackson started out doing Stand Up in Louisville, KY, where he dived head-first into the scene and quickly started putting on shows and bringing in national headliners, trying to build up the independent comedy scene. He moved to Chicago in October and is working to do shows all over the place, in hopes that his stand up will get better and better! Tyler also is a co-producer for Black Star Comedy and host a mid-day open mic called the Late Late Breakfast.

Conor Delehanty
Conor Delehanty is an up and coming comic based out of Chicago, and he performs in rooms across the Midwest. Conor's act includes a tone of voice that is as engaging as this bio and a stage presence one woman after a show described as 'tall'. Conor's biggest accomplishment as a comic thus far has been taking full advantage of the free food in the Bob and Tom green room.

Conor is a co-producer of Tuxedo Cat Comedy.
 

Odinaka Ezeokoli
I'm Odinaka.  OD if you're a syllable conservationist.  Try not to stare at my chest. One of my favorite quotes about comedy comes from Richard Pryor, "Search for the truth and the funny will come." I love that idea, easier said than done, but I still love it. I tell the story of my life as a mixed up son of Nigerian immigrants, born and raised in the American South but High Schooled in Nigeria, and try to make sense of it to myself and the world. I search for the truth in my life and in society and most of all I dig for the funny. In the words of Mr. Rogers, "Won't you be my neighbor." I'd like to leave you with another quote, this time from rapper and soulja boy protege, V.I.C., "Get silly, get silly."

Odinaka is also a co-producer of the critically acclaimed "Congrats On Your Success" showcase
 

Katie McVay
Comedian. Part-time cheesemonger. Terminally afraid. Half of Yell You Better.

Katie McVay can only be described as... Katie McVay. There's not really anyone quite like her. You've heard comedians lament loneliness before, but never with the endearing combination of anger and positivity that Katie brings to the table. Katie's inability to be anything other than the tiny firecracker she is has resulted in a quick rise to the top of the Chicago stand-up scene. After only about 18 months of leaving audiences gobsmacked with her unique brand of being extremely comfortable in her own discomfort, Katie was asked to join the elite stand-up cast at Chicago Underground Comedy. Her advice web series "Yell You Better" quickly became a YouTube hit and garnered her fans all over this great nation. Sure, Katie has opened for big stars like Tom Papa, and sure, Katie has performed at comedy festivals like Just For Laughs, but that's not what's important. What's important is the way that you see more of yourself in Katie's admittedly damaged take on life than you'd care to admit. See Katie McVay live and let her yell you better.
 

Adam Burke
Originally from the UK, Adam Burke began performing stand-up after writing a piece on comedy for a Chicago magazine. Before long, Burke became a fixture at Midwestern shows and showcases. His absurdist, verbose comedy covers not only the vagaries of life in his adopted hometown of Chicago, but also the usefulness of mammoths, dogs who study law, and the importance of gangland grammar. He has appeared on the Bob and Tom show, WGN 720 AM radio, and the Benson Interruption Podcast, and was listed as one of the Top 20 Comedians in Chicago by Comedy.com. Adam has appeared at the Bridgetown Comedy Festival in Portland OR, and as part of the Just for Laughs Chicago festival for three years running. In addition, he has opened for a wide variety of comedians including Jeff Ross, Maria Bamford, Bo Burnham, Brendon Burns, and Jake Johannsen, and Marc Maron. Adam also co-hosts the Cole's open mic and is a co-producer of Parlour Car.

 

Reena Calm
Reena Calm was made in Israel, raised near Boston, and is now thrilled to be a part of Chicago's amazing Comedy scene. She performs at venues such as The Laugh Factory, Jokes and Notes, The Second City, ComedySportz and SO many different bars. Her parents are proud. Reena has featured in the Chicago Women's Funny Festival, TBS Just For Laughs, and right now there's a hilarious festival going on in her pants. Reena currently produces and hosts the Three Dead Moose Open Mic on Sundays, 100 Proof Comedy on Mondays, and HooHA Comedy on Tuesdays. She also loves talking about herself in the third person.

 

About Nathyn Gibson, Host
Nathyn Gibson is the host of the ORNOT Gallery's Comedy Showcase: Art You Can Laugh At. Nathyn moved to Chicago last summer to pursue comedy. He also co-produces a monthly showcase in Logan Square called Black Star Comedy and is a regular performer in the A Night of Comedy series in Crown Point, Indiana. "Chicago has an amazing comedy scene, and I want to be an outlet to show what this town has to offer," said Nathyn.

Like "Art You Can Laugh At" on Facebook at www.facebook.com/artyoucanlaughat. The Facebook event can be found at www.facebook.com/events/1407343499481259.


About ORNOT Gallery
READY Coffee brings to the Bucktown-Wicker Park area of Chicago a new space to feature local artists whose passion often involves controversial, poignant, and social statements.

"We are looking to be a real player in the Chicago art scene," said READY Coffee's owner, Adam Banks. "We're used to coffee shops hanging art up on the walls as a secondary attempt to 'be local', but we are focused on being local in the best sense of the word.  We are looking to really support local artists and we're not afraid of pushing the edge."

To further showcase artwork, READY Coffee has an Art-o-Mat machine, a uniquely refurbished vintage cigarette vending machine that has been converted to sell small pieces of art wrapped in cigarette boxes. The art sells for only $5. "The Art-O-Mat is the coolest machine that I have ever seen," said Banks. "There is one in the National Portrait Gallery (a Smithsonian Museum) and it's really a beautiful piece of art in and of itself." Anyone interested in providing art objects for READY's Art-o-Mat should call the store at (773) 360-7041.

Like ORNOT Gallery on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ornotgallery and follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ornotgallery. Interested artists should contact Cody at ornot@readycoffee.com.


About READY Coffee
READY Coffee, located at 1562 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago, is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. For more information, call (773) 360-7041 or visit the website at readycoffee.com, like them at www.facebook.com/readycoffee and follow them on Twitter @ReadyCoffee.

Chicago French Market - Presto Café & Grill Mediterranean Falafel Special

Presto Café & Grill


Presto Café & Grill at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661) is offering its delicious home-made Mediterranean Falafel plate loaded with chickpeas and spices, on special throughout August.  For each Falafel plate purchased (rice, salad, hummus and 5 falafels) $6.99, the second plate is half-off. The special is available between 11a.m. and 3p.m. stop by and bring a friend.
For more information call 312-906-3737 or visit
http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/presto

Complimentary Saturday Morning Yoga at READY Coffee Beginning August 17

Off to READY Coffee? Don't forget a yoga mat! Everyone's favorite Saturday morning destination just became even more irresistible. Beginning Saturday August 17, READY Coffee (1562 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-360-7041) will be offering complimentary yoga classes. The ORNOT Gallery, located inside READY Coffee, will be transformed into a yoga studio each Saturday for 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. classes.

Just bring a mat and READY Coffee will provide the rest. READY Coffee has teamed up with yoga instructor and READY customer Blair Rockoff of Rock Solid Health (2536 W. North Ave., 773-697-4372) to provide patrons with peace of mind, good health, happiness and a great cup of coffee.

When READY Coffee owners Adam Banks and John Grbac set out to find the perfect Guru for READY's complimentary yoga classes, deciding on Rockoff was a no brainer. Rockoff's classes blend many styles of yoga to produce a class designed to challenge, entertain and provide personal discovery for each participant.  Her vast knowledge of the art and her focus on developing her students while making personal connections deemed Rockoff a perfect fit.

Rockoff began studying yoga in 2007. After trying many different yoga studios in both Chicago and California, she realized they were missing the "welcoming personal connection" that she desired. When she determined that owning her own studio and teaching classes was the best way to create her desired environment, she quickly made her dream a reality.

A welcoming personal connection is not foreign to READY Coffee; in fact it is READY Coffee's mantra.  READY Coffee prides itself on its ability to remain in tune with the wants, needs and price points of patrons in the Wicker Park area. READY Coffee regulars value the inviting atmosphere and reasonable prices.

Make READY Coffee part of your Saturday routine with complimentary yoga. We recommend finishing the yoga filled morning with a much deserved Dinkles Donut and cup of READY Coffee or a custom made juice from the popular juicer stand. 

Oceanique Celebrates Julia Child’s 101th Birthday with a Lobster Dish that Julia Would Have Been Proud to Serve

Oceanique Restaurant in Evanston, Illinois (505 Main Street, Evanston, IL; 847-864-3435) will be participating in the 2013 Julia Child Bash sponsored by Chicago Originals ( www.chicagooriginals.com), from August 15-31, celebrating the 101th birthday of the famed French cookbook author and television icon. During this celebration, Oceanique is honoring the memory of Julia Child with their Wild Maine Lobster entrée (with tropea onion, basil potatoes, and yuzu-saffron), priced at $24.

"Julia Child was very fond of lobsters," says Chef Mark Grosz. "On her TV show, The French Chef , she described them as 'unique and beautiful, with a marvelous taste and really just like nothing else.' She also said that lobster was a 'special gastronomic experience.' We consider Julia to be marvelous and like no one else, a person who made French gastronomy a special experience for millions of Americans. That's why lobster is the cornerstone of our Julia Child 101th birthday celebration. We call our lobster entrée, simply, 'Wild Maine Lobster.' The dish includes tropea onion, basil potatoes and yuzu-saffron, and is priced at $24. We think Julia would have been very pleased with our lobster rendition."  

With roots in classic French culinary technique, Oceanique has evolved into a Contemporary Global restaurant. "It's an evolution of which we believe Julia, as a food adventurer, would have heartily approved," said Grosz. "We continue to use the freshest, locally available ingredients, clearly in the French tradition, and we use classic French techniques to bring out the wonderful flavor of the ingredients. What has changed at Oceanique, over the years, is our introduction of lighter ingredients into the menu and our greater use of fresh herbs, both of which reflect today's contemporary preferences. We've also been inspired by our global culinary travels and so you'll find ingredients from around the world."  

The highly acclaimed Oceanique has been voted the best seafood restaurant in the Chicago area by the Zagat Guide since 1993 and has earned the prestigious "Best Of" Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator every year since 1994. Wine Spectator has declared Oceanique as having one of the top 750 wine lists in the world.  

Oceanique recently celebrated its 25th anniversary by undergoing a complete re-design. The new, contemporary look is light, airy and comfortable, with new lighting that brings out the beauty of Chef Grosz's superb cuisine. Oceanique's ambiance remains relaxed and hospitable, making it the perfect setting for food and wine lovers. Additional changes include a new bar and lounge menu featuring shareable small plates.  

Oceanique, located at 505 Main Street in Evanston, Illinois, serves dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday and from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. For more information or to make reservations, please contact Oceanique at 847-864-3435 or visit the website at www.oceanique.com.  

Chicago French Market - Wednesday, August 14 Lunch Hour Music - Maverick and T

Wednesday, August 14 Lunch Hour Music - Maverick and T
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Complimentary

 

Don’t miss well known Chicago-native singing duo, Maverick & T this month. This duo, who both sing and play the guitar, offers a diverse array of songs. Enjoy classic rock and soul favorites in addition to some new, original compositions.  Come enjoy their lunch hour concert at The Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661; 312-575-0306), it’s the perfect musical escape for any hectic workday.   

Chicago French Market - Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine Picnic Boxes

Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine Picnic Boxes



Picnics shouldn't be work. They should be, well, a picnic!
Pastoral has taken all the work out of picnic planning with its portable, themed picnic boxes. Pastoral Picnics are perfect for a concert at Ravinia, a date in the park, or a relaxing evening in your back yard.  They’ve paired cheese, charcuterie and other accoutrements so delicious you'll be looking for reasons to picnic all year long.

Picnic basket selections include: the vegetarian Sweet & Savory; the Locavore; The French Countryside; Tapas for Two; or The Continental Picnic. Orders are available in store at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661) or by phone with up to six hours notice, or online the day before pick up. Pastoral will have the picnic, a full baguette, and even a wine pairing ready for you to go!
Online Ordering Link: http://shop.pastoralartisan.com/index.php/picnics.html

 

For more information call 312-454-2200

Chicago French Market - Klay Oven Kitchen Beef Rogan Josh ($8.50)

Klay Oven Kitchen

Klay Oven at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661) has added a health conscious take on Beef Rogan Josh ($8.50) to its menu. While this Northern Indian curry dish is traditionally made with lamb, Klay Oven’s healthy version is made with lean-beef, which reduces fat while boosting flavor. Beef Rogan Josh is available throughout August with a rice bowl or in a wrap. 

For more infomation visit http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/klay_oven_kitchen

Chicago French Market - Thursday, August 8 Rush Hour Music - Coventry Jones

Thursday, August 8 Rush Hour Music - Coventry Jones
4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Complimentary

Coventry Jones, a Dylan-Esque singer and songwriter from Milwaukee, WI, combines critically acclaimed vocals with many different styles of music. His song list, which expands across a large variety of genres, is best known for its Delta Blues, Folk, and Celtic influences. Catch this talented artist from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, August 8 at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661; 312-575-0306).

Chicago French Market - Thursday, August 8th Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine - Wine Tasting

Thursday, August 8th Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine - Wine Tasting
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661) will be hosting its monthly wine tasting. Taste wines from different vineyards and find new favorites.
For more information call (312) 454-2200 or visit http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/pastoral_artisan_cheese_bread_wine

Oceanique Joins "Evanston Works Together" on WLS TV This Morning

Tune in to WLS-TV, ABC 7 this morning at 11 a.m. for a cooking segment with Evanston pride and Community well-being as main ingredients. As the proud Chef/Owner of Evanston’s premier restaurant Oceanique (505 Main St., Evanston, 847-864-3435), Mark Grosz joins dozens of other Evanston businesses in their support of the Evanston Works Together project.  For the demonstration Grosz will be preparing Warm Day Boat Sea Scallops, a restaurant favorite and staple.

Oceanique has called Evanston home for the past 25 years and with a recently renewed lease and a completely renovated space, Oceanique is ready to embark on 10 more years in its amazing city. Evanston has provided Oceanique with a sparkling and lively social scene within which the restaurant has thrived.

Evanston Works Together is an organization designed to funnel Evanston resources directly back into the community. This month Evanston businesses will encourage Evanstonians to shop and eat locally.  Five percent of all sales made on each Tuesday in August will be donated to Evanston organizations set on making a difference.

The donations will be directed into programs designed to encourage employment and financial stability for Evanston residents. Evanston organizations such as Connections for the Homeless, the YWCA Evanston/North Shore, and Youth Job Center of Evanston, will provide free financial literacy, job-readiness, and job training programs to those in need.

What better way to support Evanston then to enjoy its vibrant and unique local business community. This brilliant collaboration will impact the Evanston community both socially and economically. Come make a difference, shop and dine in Evanston every Tuesday.

Oceanique serves dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday and from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. For more information or to make reservations, please contact Oceanique at 847-864-3435 or visit the website at www.oceanique.com.

Chicago French Market - Abbey Brown Soap Artisan August Specials

Abbey Brown Soap Artisan August Specials

Busy event schedule this summer? Abbey Brown’s owner Deborah Kraemer reminds; “never go empty handed to a summer get together.” Take a Small Custom Gift Box, made-to-order, now $5 OFF at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago IL, 60661)

Gifts are not just for the host, do something nice for you this summer; Treat yourself to a Large Silk Milk Bath. This mix of Dead Sea Salts and Milk is the perfect way to sooth achy muscles and leave you with healthy moisturized skin normally $12 is now $2 OFF. Is your skin itchy, cracked or sunburned? Abbey Brown Soap Artisan’s Shea Balm Special, 2 for $16, is for you.
For more information call 312-738-2290 or visit http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/vendor/abbey_brown