Everest Burger 2.0, new and improved for 2012

Most restaurateurs would agree that any new concept should be fine-tuned during its first year as it climbs up the learning curve and gets to know its customers. This wisdom has not bypassed Mark and Margarita Challenger, owners of Everest Burger, located at 91 Green Bay Rd. in Glencoe, Ill. (847-242-0909). This "better burger" joint, which opened in February 2011, is located on the Winnetka/Glencoe border in the North Shore area of Chicago. The owners are an engaging couple who also own the very popular Guanajuato Contemporary Mexican and Tequila Bar a few doors down from Everest Burger. They have made several key changes during 2011 and the customers couldn’t be more pleased.

"We’ve learned a lot during our first year at Everest Burger," said Mark, "and we’ve made some significant changes that will better serve our customers. We’ve moved to a different supplier of beef, changed some of our ingredients, added new recipes, changed our menu presentation, and moved to full table service because that’s what our customers want. We’ve also started daily breakfast service." The core mission of Everest Burger has not changed, however. "Our goal still remains to serve fresh, healthy food that our guests will find to be a delicious, intelligent alternative to typical burger joint fare," he says.

The beef is juicier and richer tasting
The first thing the Challengers did was to review their choice of all-natural beef. "We originally chose a Piedmontese beef that is a very lean, healthy, all-natural product that contains no hormones, additives or antibiotics," said Mark. "It’s a great product, but we found that it was simply too lean to please our customers tastes—they are used to richer beef. What was missing was the robust flavor that can be found in beef that has a higher fat content." So the Challengers spent several months researching other beef suppliers and eventually chose Missouri-based Rain Crow Ranch.

"This company brings to Everest Burger all of the qualities we look for," said Mark. "The beef is still all-natural, grass-fed and free of any hormones, additives and antibiotics. It’s also raised in the most cattle-friendly way possible. The difference is that the beef is from Angus cattle and delivers a heartier flavor experience. Our burgers are now juicer, moister and more flavorful than before and our customers love them. So do our kids." Everest Burger still grinds its beef in-house and the process has been improved for better texture. By grinding them in-house we can be assured that we are using the exact cuts of beef that we want. When you buy a pre-ground product as most burger restaurants do, you cannot be assured you are getting the quality you want.'

The burgers are now larger and the pricing is also simpler. The regular sized Everest Burger served with fries ($9.95) has been increased from 4 ounces to 5 ounces. The "big and juicy" burger (8 ounces) is also available at $12.95. Each burger recipe is priced the same no matter if the guest chooses grass-fed beef, free-range chicken or turkey, or organic vegetarian (black bean, Portobello or walnut). However, there is a $3 up-charge for choosing Wild Alaskan Salmon, which is flown in from Alaska. All burgers now come with choice of homemade French Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Carrot Sticks or Coleslaw included in the price.

There are some other nice changes to the menu. The all grass-fed beef hot dogs are now served Chicago-style, with mustard, onion, tomato, celery salt, sweet pickle relish, sport peppers and a pickle spear. Sweet potato fries and homemade coleslaw are new options and there are also weekly specials like the Glencoe Burger (arugula, olive oil mayonnaise, tomato, and onion, ketchup and served on a house-made sesame bun) and the Great Gringo Burger (Corona beer marinated beef served with chipotle mayonnaise, tomato, ketchup, lettuce and grilled jalapenos). All condiments and produce are organic. On the dessert side, Everest Burger’s frozen yogurt is creamier than ever and they use real organic yogurt from Wisconsin in the recipe, unlike most other frozen yogurt that is made from powder.

The kids menu continues to be popular and there are several improvements. Pasta and meatballs are now available as well as meatball sliders. The kids’ meals are served in delightful, artistic cardboard cars and trucks.
Another big change has involved the menu presentation. "When our guests walk in, they view our large menu board on the wall behind the front counter," said Mark. "It lists all of our food choices, including our special recipes. The problem we had is that, originally, the menu board contained all text and no photos. We found that our customers had a hard time visualizing our burger creations and so ordering was too difficult. We’ve now designed and installed a brand new menu board, complete with color photos of the signature items. It’s bright and very appealing and ordering is much easier."
To make ordering and overall service even better, Everest Burger has added full table service and free WiFi. Guests can now be seated in the dining room and a server will give them all of the service they need, including explanations of the menu items. "It’s a better experience for the customers and it gives us more opportunity to chat with them and get to know them so we can continue to make them happy. That’s what a neighborhood restaurant should be," said Mark. "People on the go can still order at the counter and then sit down; the food will be brought to them, ready to eat in the dining room or packaged for takeout."

Everest Burger’s bakery becomes a central focus
The restaurant has always prided itself on its homemade baked goods. From the beginning, we’ve baked our burger buns from scratch, in-house," said Margarita. "We started out offering healthy, whole wheat buns that were delicious. But our customers told us they didn’t absorb the burger’s juices as readily as lighter white buns and the burgers were a bit too messy for some. After months of testing, we’ve designed a new, bigger burger bun, made from organic whole wheat white and unbleached flour. We didn’t sacrifice any flavor, though—they’re tastier than before. It’s a very good improvement." For those who prefer, Everest Burger still offers its sesame, whole wheat, vegan and gluten-free buns. The gluten-free buns are made from rice flour, buckwheat and flaxseed. Margarita tested several recipes before choosing this one.

New Breakfast Service
The bakery is also now the impetus for Everest Burger’s new breakfast service.
"Everest Burger, with its free parking, is a convenient stop for breakfast and we’re now offering some hearty breakfast entrées as well as a variety of wonderful pastries that are baked on premises," said Margarita. All egg dishes are prepared with free-range, organic eggs. The turkey bacon and sausage are hormone-free. Organic flour is used in the pancakes and waffles.
"Together with our fresh juices and our new espresso and cappuccino service—using excellent coffee, I might add—we have become an attractive spot for people who want to get off to a great morning start." Everest Burger’s breakfast service begins at 8 a.m.

The breakfast menu feature such items as the Breakfast Burrito, warm, flour tortilla filled with beef chorizo, black beans, scrambled eggs and cotija cheese ($7.95); the Everest Waffle, a home-made Belgian waffle with choice of strawberries, bananas or blueberries ($8.95); Blueberry Pancakes, three fluffy buttermilk or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes cooked with fresh blueberries ($9.95); Everest Pancakes, three fluffy buttermilk or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes cooked with shredded carrots, Granny Smith apples and raisins, and served with a side of plain yogurt ($10.95).

Omelette choices include the Nova Lox Omelette, three eggs, lox, onion, tomatoes and cream cheese; Steak Omelette, three eggs, steak, mushrooms, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion and sharp cheddar cheese; Everest Omelette, three eggs with a wonderful mix of spinach, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms and avocado, and the Mediterranean Omelette, three eggs, roasted sweet bell pepper, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, parsley, fresh garlic, scallions and feta cheese. All omelettes start at $10.95.
The bakery and coffee service are open all day and there are plenty of freshly baked cookies, cupcakes, muffins and brownies to choose from.

The new and improved Everest Burger is just another step for the Challengers as they continue to refine their business and become increasingly involved in their community. "We love this area and we’ve been fortunate to have sponsored some local sports teams and other programs, said Mark. "We hope the community will continue to support us as well and, if they weren’t convinced their first time at Everest Burger, they should come back and give Everest Burger another try. We think they will be very pleased with version 2.0. We want to hear from our guests about what we’re doing right and how we can make our restaurant the place to go for delicious, healthy burgers, great breakfast and much more."

About Everest Burger
Everest Burger is a better burger restaurant and bakery located at 91 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, Ill. The restaurant and bakery is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, contact Everest Burger at (847) 242-0909 or online at www.everestburger.com.

Chicago Area Valentine's Day Celebrations & Gift Ideas

While it may seem like this year just started, let’s not forget that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. If you’re stuck while trying to come up with a way to show the special person in your life how much they mean to you, let us help. From decadent dining options to spicy Mexican meals, ways to celebrate the day with your children or gifts to spoil your sweetheart, here are our suggestions for celebrating the love in your life. 

 

With its ties to Paris, the City of Love, the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago, IL 60661; 312-575-0306) is the place to be to celebrate love this season. Delightful Pastries will feature raspberry linzer hearts, raspberry ganache tarts and decorated heart butter cookies for Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking for a more Parisian pastry, stop by Vanille Patisserie for their famous macarons. Light and sweet, these cookies are perfect for Valentine’s Day.

For the traditionalist, Les Fleurs offers unique, handmade bouquets every day. You can’t go wrong with their fresh flowers for Valentine’s Day. For the traditional, you can also find the perfect chocolates are to spoil the one you love at Canady le Chocolatier. They are offering their beautiful nine-piece chocolates in a floral box for $22, and the more extravagant 30-piece floral box is $50. If you are looking for a plainer box, Canady also offers their 11-piece box for $17 and a one-pound box for $40.

If you are shopping for a coffee lover, Lavazza Espression in the French Market is giving away a free cup and saucer with the purchase of a pound of their gourmet coffee for $14.75 or $15 through February 29. Lavazza also is offering decadent specialty coffees during February. The Meringato, espresso and Nutella crowned with whipped cream ($3.59), and the Strawberry and Strawberry Choco Nespressone ($2.95 to $3.75) are delicious ways to celebrate early. Lavazza also offers delicious food to celebrate Valentine’s Day. While they will have the more traditional Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies ($3.99), they also feature a mouthwatering Torta di Cioccolato ($4.50), artisan crafted chocolate cake layered with raspberry and covered with ganache, and Crostata di Cioccolato ($3.99), an artisan crafted chocolate ganache tart. All Lavazza’s special Valentine’s Day food items are available January 23 through February 17.

For a more luxurious gift, Abbey Brown Soap Artisan offers many handmade soaps, lotions and bath salts in an array of tempting scents. If you plan to celebrate the holiday with a little something bubbly, Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine has an array of luxury gifts available. Pastoral is offering a Caviar for Two Collection, a gift medley featuring a tin of Sturgeon Caviar from Italy; Picolo, a creamy California cheese; cocktail toasts and a bottle of L Mawby Blanc de Blanc. Additionally, they are featuring a Chocolat et Fromage gift box, which includes an enticing assortment of chocolates from around the world and two cheeses to pair with them. This box is also available with one of Pastoral’s wine selections.  If you want to celebrate the holiday with the one you love before Valentine’s Day, Pastoral’s gift boxes are available at their website, www.pastoralartisan.com. 

 

 

The bakery at Everest Burger (91 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, IL 60022; 847-242-0909) will feature delicious Valentine’s Day treats made on-site from all-natural ingredients. They will have heart-shaped Valentine’s Day cookies and beautiful strawberry cupcakes for $2 each. They’re the perfect treat to take home to your family or for kids to share with their classmates.

Fat Rosie’s Taco and Tequila Bar (1890 W. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174; 630-762-0235) is hosting their annual Amor Valentine’s Day Dinner 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 14. The dinner will feature Executive Chef Raul Arreola’s Recipes of Love and two Classica Margaritas. The Amor Valentine’s Day Dinner is $65 per couple, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.

The Amor Valentine’s Day Dinner starts with Uchepos Gratinado, a corn tamale with poblano cream, melted cheese and esquites. This is followed by a choice of either Ensalada de Palmitos, hearts of palm with mixed greens and roasted red peppers drizzled in Cilantro Serrano dressing or Sopa de Chipachole, tomato chipotle broth with crabmeat and grilled asparagus. For the third course, diners can choose between Pescado Adobado, a fresh fish of the day served with Adobo sauce, roasted fingerling potatoes and baby spinach or Puerco in Mole Verde, pork loin in Oaxaca green mole with whole black beans and mashed potato. The meal ends with the delicious Chabelas Cake, a Tres Leches cake with fresh fruit and berry sauce.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar (25 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60611; 312-329-9463 and 960 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, IL 60069; 847-793-0333) is extending their Valentine’s Day celebration from February 12 through 14. This is always a popular destination for Valentine’s Day, so make sure to make your reservations early. Each couple celebrating Valentine’s Day with Fleming’s these days also will receive a $25 dining card toward a future rendezvous at Fleming’s. Don’t miss out on this amazing offer.

Fleming’s Valentine’s Day menu includes a three mouthwatering entrées, special wine pairings and a decadent dessert. Each Valentine’s Day entrée is $69.95. These special, decadent meals include Filet Mignon and Prawns, filet mignon on a bed of sautéed Portobello mushrooms and smoky bacon, paired with crab-stuffed prawns and a lemon garlic butter sauce; Prime New York Strip and King Crab, which is presented Oscar-style, topped with butter-poached King Crab, grilled asparagus and champagne béarnaise sauce and served with a sweet potato quenelle; and Lobster and Lobster, Colossal North Atlantic lobster tail with drawn butter and served with lobster mac and cheese.  Finish this delicious meal with a luxurious dessert for two, Red Velvet Cake served with Espresso Truffles for $9.50.

While you enjoy Fleming’s delicious Valentine’s menu, don’t forget the wine. Fleming’s recommended wine pairings for their holiday meal are Tiamo, Chianti Italy, 2010; Terra Valentine, Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2007; and Roderer Estate, Brut Rosé Anderson Valley NV. Each wine is available by the bottle and by the glass. Fleming’s also is featuring   special Valentine’s cocktail, the Bella-Tini. It’s a special way to toast to your Valentine. This bellini-inspired cocktail with Belvedere vodka, peach purée and Mas Fi Cava sparkling wine is $9.95 a glass.

Make reservations for Fleming’s Valentine’s Day celebration by calling either the Chicago or Lincolnshire location or visiting http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com.

Francesca’s restaurants locations are celebration Five Days of Valentines Friday, February 10 through Tuesday, February 14. During these five days, Francesca’s will feature Pizza con Prosciutto e Rucola, arugula, lemon, olive oil, roasted plum tomatoes, mozzarella and Prosciutto di Parma, for $11.99. They will also feature the festive Ravioli Tartufati, heart-shaped cheese-filled pasta with a garlic Parmesan cream sauce, fresh tomatoes and a drizzle of white truffle oil for $16.99. (This pasta will be available at all locations except Francesca’s Forno). Francesca’s special edition "Hearts on Fire" Martini will also be available for $9. This tasty drink is made with vodka, Cointreau, Aperol, Disaronno and fresh lemon juice. For dessert, Francesca’s offers beautiful Torta di Frutta Della Passione, a passion fruit tart with white chocolate cream and fresh berries. A Valentine’s evening at Franceca’s is sure to be a treat.

Francesca’s Bryn Mawr (1039 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Chicago, IL 60660; 773-506-9261) will be kicking off their brunch specials soon, but if you dine with them during Valentine’s week, February 10 through 14, you can receive a gift certificate for $10 off brunch at the restaurant, which can be redeemed from February 18 through April 15.

Francesca’s on Chestnut (200 E. Chestnut St., Chicago, IL 60611; 312-482-8800) is offering a special menu for Valentine’s Day Diners. The St. Valentine’s Day Couples Special is $103.99 for four courses and a bottle of wine, not including tax and gratuity.

The St. Valentine’s Day Cupid Special comes with a bottle of either MASI Modello Delle Venezie Bianco 2009 or MASI Mondello Delle Venezie Rosso 2008. Couples start the meal with Alaskan Snow Crab Claws, four crab claws over julienne lettuce and chives, served with honey Dijon mustard sauce to share. This is followed by the Francesca Salad, a delicious mix of romaine lettuce, endive, radicchio, blue cheese and fresh vegetables to share. Each diner may choose his or her own entrée from three delicious choices, including Braised Beef Brassato with potato gratinatti, crispy asparagus and natural juice, Pork Tenderloin wrapped in prosciutto with a bed of sautéed spinach and oven-dried tomatoes in an oregano wine sauce, or Mahi Mahi, almond crusted mahi with fennel, beets, baby greens, and champagne mustard sauce. This delicious and romantic meal concludes with Chocolate Mousse for the couple to share.

Valentine’s Day celebrating isn’t just for adults! Francesca’s Fortunato (40 Kansas St., Frankfort, IL 60423; 815-464-1890) is celebrating Junior Cupid Day 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, February 11. Parents are invited to bring their Junior Cupids in wearing pink or red, and they will get a complimentary special dessert with their meal. There will also be the opportunity to wine a $25 gift certificate to Toys R Us by guessing the correct number of Sweethearts in the jar.

Planning to dine at Francesca’s Tavola (208 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005; 847-394-3950) the week of Valentine’s Day?  The restaurant is offering a special personal touch for your Valentine’s Day. When making their reservation, guests can order a box of homemade truffles with a personalized note for only $10. It will be waiting at your table when you come to enjoy your Valentine’s Day meal. It’s a sweet, personalized treat to show your dinner companion just how much you care.

Francesca’s at the Promenade (641 E. Boughton Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440; 630-739-6300) has partnered with Aloft Hotel (500 Janes Ave., Bolingbrook, IL 60440; 630-410-6367) to create a special romantic package for couples. Throughout the month of February, enjoy a one-night stay for two at Aloft Hotel and a fantastic dinner at Francesca’s at the Promenade for $199. With such a great partnership, we can be sure it will be an evening to remember.

If you’re looking to keep the romance alive after Valentine’s Day, Francesca’s Tavola (208 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005; 847-394-3950) is hosting a romantic wine dinner 7 p.m. Thursday, February 16. The dinner will feature the wines of Buglioni Vineyards with aphrodisiac foods. The dinner is $55 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour featuring Ostriche di Amore, oysters on a half shell with a pomegranate mionette. This is paired with "Il Vigliacco" Brut Rose. The first course for the evening is Carciofi al Miele, shaved sunchokes on Romaine leaves with honey, roasted lemon and pecorini sardo paired with "Il Intruso" Bianco Veronese. Following this is Orecchiete de Rapini, orecchiete, rapini, roasted garlic and calabrian chiles paired with Alpolicella Classico. The third course is Costine Bue con Polenta, braised short ribs, creamy herbed polenta and asparagus. This is a perfect pair for "Il Bugiardo" Valpolicella Classicao Superiore Ripasso DOC. The evening of aphrodisiacs ends with Duo di Macaroon, an almond and walnut fig filled macaroon with gorgonzola dolce and date and raisin conserva. "L’Amarone" Amarone della Valpolicella is paired with the dessert course. Guests also receive homemade chocolate truffles to take home and continue the celebration.

Guanajuato Contemporary Mexican & Tequila Bar (73 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, IL 60022; 847-242-0501) will feature a special Cornish Game Hen with garlic spinach, black beans and smoky red salsa to share for $24.95 on Valentine’s Day. For a unique Valentine’s Day dessert, try Guanajuato’s delicious Strawberry Flan made with real roses for $9.95. A date night at Guanajuato would not be complete without one of their legendary margaritas. For Valentine’s Day, Guanajuato is featuring their amazing Prickly Pear Margarita and a Blood Orange Margarita for $10. The restaurant also will have live music  on Valentine’s Day and be open until 10 p.m. To treat your Valentine an authentic, romantic trip south of the border while staying on the North Shore, make sure to visit Guanajuato.

For the art lover in your life, or for a unique and beautiful gift, visit the Judy A. Saslow Gallery (300 W. Superior, Chicago, IL 60654; 312-943-0530). Currently, the gallery is displaying outsider art as a part of its Far Out: 2012 show. When you make a piece from this show part of your home, your Valentine will always remember this year as a special one. Whether your loved one desires a painting, a print or a sculpture, the Judy A. Saslow Gallery has an array of lovely options. The gallery also showcases intricate handmade jewelry. Visit the Judy A. Saslow Gallery Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

Maxwell’s at the Club (500 N. Kingsbury St., Chicago, IL 60610; 312-527-5800) will feature a special Valentine’s Day menu in addition to their normal a la carte menu 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. February 14. This prix fixe menu is $40 per person, not including alcohol, and includes an appetizer, salad, entrée and dessert. Entrée selections include steak and lobster tail, seafood and chateaubriand for two. Dinner guests may also attend the Valentine's Day Party Riverview from 6 to 10 p.m. at no extra cost. This party includes a hors d'oeuvres buffet, cash bar and performance by cover band Midnight Sun. The cost of attending the Valentine’s Day Party without Dinner at Maxwell’s is $30 per person. For dinner reservations call Maxwell’s at 312-527-5800, extension 301.

Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, IL 60062; 847-205-4433) has Valentine celebrations available for diners of all ages. February 13, children are welcome to come in for dinner and decorate cookies for their parents. Each child will receive three heart-shaped cookies, one to eat and two to give away. They will decorate them using Prairie Grass’s house-made, all natural frosting and receive a card to decorate and box to present it in for just $14. It’s a great way for them to show their parents love.

If you’re looking to make naturally colored icing at home, why not borrow a recipe from Prairie Grass? You’ll need two cups of powdered sugar, two and a half tablespoons of heavy cream and a small beet, coarsely grated. Blend the sugar and cream with a hand mixer until smooth and stir in the grated beet a little at a time until reaching the desired color. Press the icing through a fine sieve to remove beet strands.

Prairie Grass also is featuring a special Valentine’s Day menu of February 14. The menu features half-dozen Oysters Rockefeller for $15. Delicious Shrimp Cakes with tomato chutney, forbidden black rice and crunchy vegetable slaw make a delicious entrée for $26. Prairie Grass will also feature Bison Filet Mignon as an entrée with sweet and savory potato gratin and "River Valley Ranch" mushroom ragout for $42. Prairie Grass’s specialty dessert offerings include the PGC "Date" Cake, rich cake infused with Medjool Dates and covered in a sticky toffee sauce, topped with homemade vanilla bean ice cream for $7.50 or their famous Mom’s Cherry Pie, featuring Door County Sour Cherries for $7.50.

The Valentine’s Day Sparkler, Prairie Grass’s special holiday cocktail, is made with a dash of Angostura Orange Bitters, half an ounce of Mathilde Raspberry Liquor and five ounces of Prosecco. It is garnished with a delightful raspberry juice ice cube in the shape of a heart. For $11, it’s a great cocktail to celebrate the holiday.

Prairie Grass Cafe’s unique and tasty menu is perfect for a memorable holiday with the one you love.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Grand Chefs Gala January 27 Oscar-like Benefit for Foodies

GRAND CHEFS GALA

¡VIVA LA REVOLUCIÓN! Come celebrate the 15th annual Grand Chefs Gala/Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence 6 p.m. Friday, January 27. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is again bringing Chicago’s finest chefs to the stunning Fairmont Chicago, Millennium (200 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago).  The diverse collection of award-winning culinary artists will each prepare and present their signature dishes for more than 750 guests. Your senses will be liberated when ¡Havana! showcases mouth-watering food, festive decór, and premium silent and live auction items. The Oscar-like atmosphere will be abuzz when the Jean Banchet Awards are bestowed upon Chicago’s outstanding chefs, restaurants, catering companies, mixologists, and sommeliers in their respective categories. The only weapons you'll need for this insurgence are hope, joy, generosity, kinship and, above all, celebration. !VIVA PARA UNA CURA!


This year's chef chair is Curtis Duffy of Grace. More than 40 chefs and mixologists will be featured including Davanti Enoteca’s Jonathan Beatty. Other chefs and their respective restaurants include: Blackbird, David Posey; The Bristol, Chris Pandel; Gaetano's, Gaetano DiBenedetto; Heaven on Seven, Jimmy Bannos; Inovasi, John des Rosiers; Lockwood, Greg Elliott; Mercadito, Patricio Sandoval; Piccolo Sogno, Tony Priolo; The Purple Pig, Jimmy Bannos, Jr.; Rockit Bar & Grill, James Gottwald & Amanda Downing;Vie, Nathan Sears;

The Fairmont Chicago, Brad Parsons; BOKA, , James Gottwald & Amanda Downing; The Bristol and Balena, Amanda Rockman; Pump Room at Public Chicago, Kady Yon; and Sarah's Pastries and Candies, Sarah Levy.


Visit here for a complete list of chefs and mixologists. Purchase tickets here.


EVENING PROGRAM

5:30pm – 6:30pm
VIP Reception – Ambassador Room
for silver sponsors and above and their guests

6:00pm
Cocktail Reception and Hors d’oeuvres – International Ballroom
featuring Chicago ’s Finest Chefs

8:00pm
Dinner and Program – Imperial Ballroom
featuring dinner prepared by The Fairmont Chicago Chef, Brad Parsons
Master of Ceremonies - Steve Dolinsky
Presentation of the Founders' Award
Presentation of the Jean Banchet Awards presented by Chef Jean Banchet
Presentation of Eurest People's Choice Award
Live Auction, Bid for a Cure and Silent Auction

9:30pm – 12:00am
Nightcap - Imperial Ballroom
featuring Chicago ’s Finest Pastry Chefs and Chicago ’s Hottest Mixologists
Dancing to live music by Matt Lewis and The Union

Black Tie Preferred



TICKET INFORMATION

All proceeds help benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's research for a cure.

Please see our Sponsorship page for information on table purchases and sponsorship info.

Individual Ticket $400 (includes Nightcap)
$235 of each ticket is tax deductible.

"Nightcap" Ticket $75
$55 of each ticket is tax deductible.
9:30p-12:00a
Desserts, Mixologists and Dancing

[Side note] Attention all charities and non-profits: Do you have an event or news that you'd like to publicize? Here at Kurman Communications, we are proud to feature FRT- Free Release Tuesdays. Send us news on your upcoming event, including links, photos, etc. We'll pick our top selections and post them right here on the Got Buzz blog! Got Buzz receives thousands of page views monthly by consumers and journalists who are looking for things to do and content to feature. KCI is pleased to help you spread the news!

Farm-Fresh Weekend Specials at Glen Prairie

Head to Glen Prairie (1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill.) this weekend for specials featuring fresh produce and products from Leaning Shed Farms in Berrien Springs, Mich.; Graue Mill in Oak Brook, Ill. and Dietzler Farms in Elkhorn, Wis. These specials are offered after 5 p.m. this weekend only, Oct. 9 and 10, in addition to the regular Glen Prairie menu.

Start off with an appetizer, Trio of Dietzler Farms Sliders, one bacon with Laack Brothers two year aged cheddar, a caramelized onion with Mindoro Blue Cheese and a roasted pepper with Stickney Hill Goat Cheese ($9). The entree specials consist of either Pan Seared Sea Scallops, Graue Mill Polenta Cake, melted leeks, sauteed green beans and roasted red pepper coulis ($24); or Iowa Farmed Espresso Braised Beef Short Rib, whipped sweet potatoes, caramelized Brussels sprouts and natural jus ($21).

Make a reservation for this weekend at Glen Prairie by calling (630) 613-1250 or visit http://www.glenprairie.com/ for more information.

Good Karma Brings a Complimentary Night Stay at Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore

After 5 p.m. next Friday, Sept. 25 only, pan-Asian restaurant Karma (510 E. Route 83, Mundelein; 847-970-6900) offers guests a complimentary one-night stay in December at the Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore, when they spend $50 at the restaurant and present this coupon.

The complimentary night can be redeemed at the Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore, adjacent to Karma, any night that month, including holidays. December is a month of holidays and festivities, and with budgets a little tighter this year a complimentary evening might be the perfect way to celebrate, hold a meeting or just have some fun.

Dinner reservations are required at Karma, and can be made by calling (847) 970-6900. Don't forget to bring the coupon with you!

Celebrate the 4th with an explosion of delicious food

Looking for something other than fireworks to brighten your Independence Day? Check out the hot holiday and summer specials being offered at your favorite Chicago restaurants. After you work up an appetite outside, make sure to fill up on great food and drink specials!

BIRCH RIVER GRILL
75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, IL
(847) 427-4242

Enjoy an elegant, yet cozy environment while experiencing delicious American-style cuisine at Birch River Grill. Take pleasure in hot summer specials including free appetizers 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily! Experience a twist on a classic, home-style meal with executive chef John Ayaleanos’ delicious entrées, including Birch River Mac N’ Cheese, featuring mild and sharp cheddar cheeses and toasted brioche crumbs upon cavatappi noodles ($10) and Cedar Planked Maple Salmon, served in a maple rosemary garlic glaze with smoked bacon wild rice pilaf ($19). In the mood for something light but filling? Try the Grilled “Baja Style” Fish Tacos –perfect for summer -- served in corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, spicy salsa and cool cilantro lime mayo ($10). Guests looking to enjoy their meal in the lounge should check out its menu, featuring classic choices such as Corned Beef Reuben ($9) and Pulled Pork Sliders ($9).

Birch River Grill’s Express Lunch:
Lunch breaks often don’t give ample time to enjoy a satisfying meal. With Birch River Grill’s Express Lunch, guests can enjoy their choice of two ($7) or three ($9) of the following within a busy workday: Cup of Soup of the Day, Small House Salad or Caesar Salad, and/or Half of the Daily Sandwich. Being busy should not mean eating badly. Swing by today for the perfect mid-day meal!

Birch River Grill Summer Daily Drink Specials:
Monday: $2.30 Bud and Bud Light bottles
Tuesday: $5 Bacardi and Captain Morgan cocktails
Wednesday: $5 Absolut and Stoli cocktails
Thursday: $5 Jack Daniels and Jim Beam cocktails
Friday: $5 Jose Cuervo margaritas; $3 Corona bottles
Saturday: 1 cent bottles of Sycamore Lane Wine (with the purchase of an entrée)
Sunday: $2.50 Miller Lite and MGD bottles

Birch River Grill Summer Dining Information:
Hours: Monday through Thursday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Lounge stays open one hour later)
Meals served: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and lounge menu

For reservations or more information, please call Birch River Grill at (847) 427-4242.

DEERFIELDS BAKERY
25 S. Roselle Rd., Schaumburg, IL
(847) 520-0068

This year Deerfields Bakery will be handing out gluten-free cookies and mini cupcakes at the annual fourth of July parade in Deerfield. Last year, the lauded Northshore bakery handed out more than 15,000 cupcakes. This year, the bakery elected to go gluten-free in honor of its new offering of gluten-free baked goods."We plan to hand out Lemon Buttons and mini chocolate cupcakes," explained Kurt Schmitt, president of Deerfields Bakery, who has made gluten-free his pet project. "No one will even guess these baked goods are gluten-free," he added."In addition to our organic whole grain products that we bake for a large grocery chain," Schmitt explained, "adding a gluten-free line is another avenue for Deerfields to offer a healthier alternative to everyone."

For more information on gluten-free or any of Deerfields Bakery items, call (748) 520-0068.

DELEECE
4004 N. Southport Ave., Chicago, IL
(773) 325-1710

Check out innovative food while enjoying the summer weather at Deleece. Guests are welcome to relax on the outdoor patio and dine on chef de cuisine, Chris Kuziemko’s impressive masterpieces, including Grilled Shrimp Penne Pasta served with grape tomatoes and pesto ($17) and Basil Ginger-Cured Amish Half Chicken in a tangy blueberry sauce accompanied with camembert and frisee panzanella ($15).

Deleece’s Summer Specials:
Mondays and Tuesdays check out Deleece’s special $20 three-course meal. The menu changes weekly, allowing for multiple return trips to try new creations.
Wine lovers beware: don’t miss half-priced bottles every Wednesday.

Deleece Summer Dining Information:
Hours: Lunch: Tuesday through Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Dinner: Monday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Brunch: Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Outdoor Seating: Yes

Deleece offers carry-out in addition to dining-in. For more information or to make a reservation, call Deleece at (773) 325-1710.

DINE
733 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL
(312) 602-2100

Get outside and enjoy the city this summer while feasting on delicious creations at Dine. With outdoor seating, try something from the new lounge menu, like the Seared Maryland Blue Crab Cakes($11), Grilled Norwegian Salmon ($25) and Slow-Dried Rummo Pasta ($18). Don’t forget to save room for dessert. Curb chocolate cravings with the Espresso-Dark Chocolate Moussecake ($8).

Dine’s July 4 Specials:
Spend the day with Dine and holiday specials, featuring $4 Draft Beers, $5 Burgers, and $6 Specialty Red, White and Blue Martinis. Enjoy the summer weather on the 28-seat patio.

Goose Island Beer Dinner, July 26th 2008
Executive chef Christopher Turano treats his guests to a special menu July 26, when he dishes out a special Goose Island beer dinner. The meal begins with Lightly Smoked Sable, served with toasted caraway bilini and pickled ramp, accompanied with Seasonal Goose Island Summertime, followed by a Five Spice Roasted Duck Breast, accompanied with a saffron braised salsify and green apple slaw, served alongside a Classic Goose Island India Pale Ale. The third course features a Moroccan Spiced Lamb Shank with cauliflower “risotto” along with a white asparagus salad, featuring a Goose Island Reserve Matilda, followed by dessert; a Brown Butter Shortcake with palm sugar roasted finger bananas, accented with valencia burnt-orange caramel ice cream paired with Goose Island’s Reserve Pere Jacques.

Dine’s mouth-watering Goose Island Beer Dinner is $40 per person. To make a reservation or more information, please contact Dine at (312) 602-2100.

Dine Summer Dining Information:
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. (lounge is open one hour later)
Meals served: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Lounge menu
Nightly Bar Specials featuring $6 House Martinis on Fridays.

DUNLAYS ON CLARK

2600 Clark St., Chicago, IL

(773) 883-6000

Join the party at Dunlays on Clark this July 4 weekend. The restaurant’s popular brunch is going to be open on Friday, July 4, to ring in Independence Day. Guests can dine on favorite brunch items such as neighborhood namesake Lincoln Park, featuring goat cheese, asparagus, roasted red peppers, and artichokes ($8) or classic Eggs Florentine, which includes toasted brioche accompanied with smoked turkey, poached eggs and hollandaise sauce ($9).

The fun doesn’t stop after the July 4 holiday at Dunlays on Clark. Enjoy one of their summer cocktails, including their featured mojitos. Guests can also choose from many specialty and summer cocktails, including a Clark Street Cosmo, with Stoli Razberi or Stoli Cranberi, Cointreau, cranberry juice and a hint of lime, and the Perfect Manhattan, with Maker’s Mark, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, bitters and brandied cherries. Work up an appetite with all those tasty drinks? Try one of Dunlays on Clark’s delicious entrée’s including their Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi, which is roasted and topped with lemon butter sauce, served with grilled asparagus ($21) or a Margherita Pizza –perfect for a filling snack—with fresh tomatoes, basil pesto, baby arugula, and mozzarella ($10).

For reservations or for more information call Dunlays on Clark at (773) 883-6000.

DUNLAYS ON THE SQUARE

3137 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago, IL

(773) 227-2400

Celebrate the July 4 weekend right with Dunlays on the Square. Enjoy the restaurant’s signature brunch, featuring favorites like the Fresh Fruit Pancakes loaded with strawberries, bananas and blueberries served with potatoes ($8). Dunlays on the Square has extended their weekend brunch to include the holiday and are therefore open for brunch at 10 a.m. on Friday through Sunday.

For reservations or more information, please call Dunlays con the Square at (773) 227-2400.

FRASCA PIZZERIA & WINE BAR
3358 N. Paulina St., Chicago, IL
(773) 248-5222

Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar is celebrating the July 4 holiday with the regular dinner menu featuring favorites such as Fonduta, fontina and pecorino fondue with apples, toasted bread and sopressata ($9) and rich dishes like the Gnocchi Alla Pizzaiolo, homemade potato dumplings sautéed in tomato sauce with fresh herbs, smoked provolone and extra virgin olive oil ($14).

Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar is now open for brunch. Open for the July 4 weekend holiday, the restaurant will begin serving brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday & Sunday. The new menu offers traditional brunch favorites such as House-made Granola and Yogurt served with fresh fruit ($8) to more exotic items like Breakfast Pizza ($10). Don’t forget their featured bottomless mimosa’s ($10).

For reservations or more information, call Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar at (773) 248-5222.

HAUSSMANN BRASSERIE
305 Happ Rd., Northfield, IL
(847) 446-1133

Restaurant-goers searching for casual, yet sophisticated dining need to check out Jacky Pluton’s newest restaurant, Haussmann Brasserie. This new culinary hotspot features Parisian-inspired American cuisine. Enjoy entrées including Striped Bass served with roasted red pepper “aigre-doux” ($25), and Beef Shortribs accented with a seven spice mixture, served with a carrot-horseradish puree ($26). During dinner, try a signature Haussmann Martini ($12) made with Grey Goose pear vodka, Belle de Brillat Liqueur and pear puree. Indulge in one the restaurant’s decadent desserts, including Jacky’s “Childhood” Tiramisu, or Meringues Profiterolles ($8 each).
Haussmann Brasserie’s Current Daily Entrée Specials:
Monday: Trout Almondine ($23)
Tuesday: Duck Confit ($18)
Wednesday: Soft Shell Crab ($26)
Thursday: Beef Bourguignon ($25)
Friday: Meat Loaf ($21)
Saturday: Veil Paillard ($24)
Sunday: Croque Madame ($18)

Haussmann Brasserie Summer Dining Information:
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Meals served: Lunch and Dinner

For a reservation or more information, call Haussmann Brasserie at (847) 446-1133.

KARMA
510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, IL
(847) 970-6900

Stay cool and refreshed this summer with one of Karma’s summer drink specials. Choose from eight delicious drinks including an Asian Pear Mojito ($9), Pom Margarita ($9), Mai Tai ($8), Lychee Sake Mojito ($9), Harvest Peach Sangria ($9), Karma Bloody Mary ($8), Karma Kolada ($8) and an 1800 Margarita ($9). Enjoy these tantalizing drinks with a delicious menu favorite, including Grilled Stuffed Rainbow Trout ($20), Orange Peel Tempura Chicken ($15) or Vegetarian Okonomiyaki ($15).

Karma’s July 4 Dinner Specials:
Celebrate the Fourth of July at Karma with one of two entrée specials. Executive chef Robert Packer invites guests to feast on a choice of Char Grilled 24oz. Porterhouse served with a lime ginger glaze, and wasabi aioli alongside shoestring potatoes and baby vegetables ($39), or the Pacific Rim Tilapia stuffed with Thai chili spiced shrimp and scallops served with wok-fried vegetables, forbidden rice and a lobster tobikko sauce ($24).

Karmas Lounge Drink Specials:
Grab a cocktail after dinner in Karma’s sleek lounge. Drink specials include a Papaya Margarita ($7), Karma’s Green Envy ($8), and a Fruitini ($8).

Karma’s Summer Daily Drink Specials:
Monday: $7 Grey Goose la Poire cosmo martini
Tuesday: $4 draft beer
Wednesday: $5 Bacardi Rum cocktails
Thursday: $3 domestic bottles
Friday: $6 Absolut martinis

Karma Summer Dining Information:
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Lounge remains open one hour later).
Meals served: Breakfast, lunch, dinner and lounge menus.

To make a reservation or for more information, please call Karma at (847) 970-6900.

THE REDHEAD PIANO BAR

16 W. Ontario St., Chicago, IL

(312) 640-1000

Gym shoes or ripped jeans ever kept you out of The Redhead? Well…in honor of July 4th and our 15 year anniversary, we are proud to announce the first ever independence from The Redhead Piano Bar dress code. For the July 3-5 holiday weekend only, liberate yourself from dress clothes and relax in … well let me put it this way; if you have something on your feet, something on your top and something in between, then you’re probably ok. Other than bathing suits, just about anything goes! No cover charge, live entertainment, robust selection of libations and great value year-round. For the July 3-5 celebration only there will be nightly prizes, so bring your business card for the drawing. The Redhead Piano Bar is open Thursday 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.

For reservations or more information, call the The Redhead Piano Bar at (312) 640-1000.

SHOCHU

3313 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL

(773) 348-3313

Spice up the culinary experience with Shochu’s new brunch menu. Executive chef Josh Hansen brings a twist to classic brunch with Asian-inspired menu items, including Lobster Mizuna Benedict accented with truffle hollandaise ($13), a Shitake Goat Cheese and Scallion Omlette ($8) and Pear Ginger French Toast with sesame whipped cream ($7). Don’t forget to order a Bottomless Mimosa ($15), which is currently being offered during Saturday and Sunday brunch!
In the neighborhood for dinner? Have dinner on Shochu’s beautiful 60-seat outdoor patio and enjoy menu favorites such as Blueberry Teriyaki Quail with quinoa spaetzle, served with miso lychee aioli and black sesame seeds ($10), and the Red Curry Shrimp with fuji apple served alongside a peanut scallion and pea shoot salad ($11). Don’t forget a namesake shochu cocktail. Shochu, Japan’s highest-selling alcoholic beverage, is similar to vodka and thanks to its distilling process, easy on hangovers. Try a Bloody Dragon made with rice shochu, blood orange, malibu, and soda ($9).

Shochu’s Current Specials:

Monday: ½ price martinis (with food purchase)
Tuesday: ½ price sushi

Shochu Summer Dining Information:
Hours: Dinner: Sunday through Friday, 5:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Brunch: Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Outdoor Seating: Yes

For a reservation or more information, call Shochu at (773) 348-3313.

THE SMOKE DADDY
1804 W. Division St., Chicago, IL
(773) 772-6656

Celebrate the July 4 with one of Chicago’s most renowned neighborhood barbeque joints, The Smoke Daddy. On July 4, join the Smoke Daddy for the Red, White, and Q Celebration, when the restaurant offers $3 Pabst Blue Ribbon Beers and their full menu all day long.

The Smoke Daddy is located at 1804 West Division Street in Chicago’s eclectic Wicker Park neighborhood. To celebrate Independence Day, The Smoke Daddy is open 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. for dine-in and carry-out orders. Guests enjoy free, live music every evening at no extra charge.

For reservations or for more information, please call The Smoke Daddy at (773) 772-6656.

SWEET BABY RAY’S
800 E. Higgins Rd.,

Elk Grove Village, IL

(847) 437-9555

In the mood for good old fashioned barbecue, but don’t feel like dusting off the grill? Head to Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant in Elk Grove Village, and grab a seat on the outdoor patio Guests will experience executive chef Paul Papadopoulos’ skills on the grill in creating classic dishes. Enjoy nightly drink specials along with favorites such as Baby Back Ribs smothered with Sweet Baby Ray’s famous barbecue sauce, half slab or full slab ($12.99/$19.99), Jamaican Jerk Chicken Platter ($12.99) and Smoked Shaved Prime Rib Sandwich ($10.99).

Sweet Baby Ray’s at Naperville Ribfest:
Rib lovers prepare, The Naperville Ribfest is right around the corner. The second biggest rib contest in the U.S. kicks off July 3 and continues through July 6. The good people at Sweet Baby Ray’s will be there, serving delicious barbecue to hungry attendees. Guests can feast on St. Louis Style Spare Ribs, Pulled Pork Sandwiches, BBQ Chicken Breast Sandwiches, Boneless Rib Sandwiches, and House-made Barbecue Baked Beans and Cole Slaw. In addition, Sweet Baby Ray’s is one of only two vendors to be selling Baby Back Ribs at the event. Enjoy the summer weather and join Sweet Baby Ray’s at the Naperville Ribfest!

Sweet Baby Ray’s July 4 Weekend Specials:
Nothing goes better with fireworks than Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue. In-house, guests will be treated to a menu of Baby Back Ribs, Smoked Chicken, Fresh Corn on the Cob, and Sliced Watermelon for $19.99. Holiday-exclusive drink specials include a Lemon Crush Martini ($7) and Rum Antique ($6), available only for the weekend. Guests looking to grab barbecue to-go can look forward to the restaurant’s exclusive carry-out specials. Pick up classic Baby Back Ribs ($15.99), St. Louis-Style Baby Back Ribs ($14.99), or a Whole Smoked Chicken ($8.99) at special prices. Feeding a big group? Get multiple orders of favorites or pick up ten pounds of Pulled Pork for $79.95. Both the in-house and carry-out specials are only available July 4 through 6. Make the holiday complete with barbecue from Sweet Baby Ray’s.
Guests checking out the local festivals on the Fourth of July can catch Sweet Baby Ray’s out and about in Chicago. Head to Frontier Days in Arlington Heights and catch some fireworks at Itasca Fireworks. Just make sure to keep an eye –or a more appropriate nose-out for their famous barbeque.

Sweet Baby Ray’s Summer Dinner Specials:
Sweet Baby Ray’s is treating its bar patrons to a Free Appetizer Buffet from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, so grab a drink and chow down! Entrée specials include All-You-Can-Eat Baby Back Ribs every Wednesday ($16.99), and a Smoked Prime Rib Dinner every Friday and Saturday ($18.95). Don’t forget to bring the whole family because kids eat free every Tuesday.

Sweet Baby Ray’s July Daily Drink Specials:
Monday: $2.25 Light drafts; $2.50 Miller bottles
Tuesday: $3 Blue Moon drafts; $5 Sea Breeze and Bay Breeze cocktails
Wednesday: $2.50 Coors Light bottles; $5 Sangria
Thursday: $2.50 Bud & Bud Light bottles; $5 Margaritas
Featured cocktails every weekend.

Sweet Baby Ray’s Summer Dining Information:
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.;Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Meals Served: Breakfast (weekends only), Lunch, and Dinner

For more information on specials or to make a reservation, call Sweet Baby Ray’s Elk Grove at (847) 437-9555.

Ah, foie gras

It took place two years ago, and will be remembered as one of the strangest decisions in Chicago history. Maybe the most bizarre decision. Or silly. No, I’m not talking about the infamous “spaceship” addition to Soldier Field. I’m talking about the ban on serving foie gras in Chicago’s restaurants, which Chicago’s city council repealed on Wednesday by a vote of 37 to 6. Local chefs and the National Restaurant Association rejoiced at the lifting of the odd ordinance, with some restaurants eagerly adding the delicacy to their menus as soon as this weekend.

Buzz About Kurman Restaurants

Congratulations to Kurman restaurants featured in the May issue of Food Arts magazine. I couldn’t agree more with the title of Barbara Revsine’s piece, “Second To None,” because it seems like genius chefs constantly invade Chicago’s restaurant scene with their talents. And who can complain about that?!

Haven’t picked up the latest issue? Not to worry, I’ve posted the Kurman restaurants here:

Sample sophisticated fare at Powerhouse Restaurant & Bar (215 N. Clinton St., Chicago; 312-928-0800), “a stylish restaurant tucked into an historic building that originally housed the power plant for a local rail line. Diners can sample full flavored starters such as slow roasted chicken thigh paired with toasted faro before tucking into equally flavorful entrees such as grilled wild striped bass with chorizo sausage.”

At Aigre Doux (230 W. Kinzie St., Chicago; 312-329-9400), the “seasonally attuned menu… features dishes like glazed duck breast partnered with huckleberry compote, rack of lamb with truffled grits, and sticky toffee pudding.”

The mag also sent kudos to Shochu (3313 N. Clark St., Chicago; 773-348-3313), where “contemporary American cuisine with an Asian edge is featured... Named for Japan’s best-selling liquor, the restaurant focuses on small plates and features cocktails made with its signature spirits.”

Listed as noteable newcomers include suburban eateries Haussmann Brasserie (305 Happ Road, Northfield; 847-446-1133) and Maijean (30 S. Prospect Ave., Clarendon Hills; 630-794-8900).

Thinking about all the stellar food at those restaurants makes me hungry. Dinner date anyone?!

Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar offers seasonal specials

Now through April 20, Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar (3358 N. Paulina St., Chicago) is offering a unique artichoke themed special in honor of Italy's annual April artichoke festival. The menu includes:

Trio of Bruscette ($5):
-Artichoke and Ricotta
-Artichoke, Roasted Red Peppers, Pancetta and Goat Cheese
-Artichokes with White Beans, Oven Dried Tomatoes and Mozzarella

Insalata alla Carciofi e Crescione ($6):
-Artichoke salad with Watercress, Oranges and Shaved Onion

Risotto con Carciofi e Gamberi ($13):
-Creamy Italian Rice with Roasted Artichokes and Shrimp

Rigatoni con Salsa di Carciofi ($12):
-Rigatoni pasta with Roasted Vegetables, and a Light Artichoke Sauce

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Monday, April 21 marks the birthday of Rome (753 BC). Lakeview's own Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar will feature a special Roman-inspired menu in honor of this holiday:

Fritto Misto di Mare ($7):
-Fried Calamari, Shrimp and Mahi Mahi with Lemon and Caper Dipping Sauce

Gnocchi alla Romana ($10):
-Classic Roman Semolina Gnocchi baked in the oven with Parmigiano-Regiano Cheese

Pollo Saltimbocca Alla Romana ($13):
-Chicken Breast with Sage and Proscuitto, Wilted Spinach and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Pesce alla Romana ($18):
-Skatewing with Fresh Scallions, Peas and Mint on a bed of Escarole and Artichokes

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Originating from the Friuli region of Italy, a frasca (wreath of tree branches) hanging over a farmhouse door signifies the sale of food and wine within. As a result, a frasca has come to symbolize a pleasant gathering place for family and friends. Chicago’s own Frasca Pizzeria and Wine Bar has embraced this tradition inside its contemporary, Italian influenced restaurant and wine bar. Frasca offers a vast array of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes, artisan pizza and an extensive wine list from Italy, France and North America.

Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar is located in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood at 3358 N. Paulina St. at Roscoe, Paulina and Lincoln. For more information about Frasca, please call (773) 248-5222 or visit http://www.frascapizzeria.com/.