Friday, May 29, 2009

Dining Deals: Birch River Grill, Glen Prairie and Karma

Looking for dining deals? Celebrate the weekend and choose an appetizer, entrée and dessert to indulge in from one of these three restaurants.

Birch River Grill
75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, Ill.
(847) 427-4242
www.birchrivergrill.com

This weekend, May 29 through May 31, Birch River Grill is offering a three-course meal in addition to the regular menu after 5 p.m. Create your own prix-fixe meal for only $20.

Begin your meal with your choice of an appetizer from the BRG Salad, baby greens, shredded Michigan carrots, beefsteak tomato wedges and seedless cucumber slices; Granny Apple Onion Soup, paprika parmesan croutons, Wisconsin Swiss and provolone cheese; or the Soup of the Day.

For your entrée, choose from Creole Mustard & Honey Glazed Salmon, lentil vegetable ragout and herb broth; Seared Flattened Chicken Breast; garlic and herb marinated chicken breast, arugula slaw and roasted chicken jus; or the Cajun Chicken Pasta, diced blackened chicken breast, andouille sausage and Diablo tomato pepper sauce.

Wrap up your meal with Sorbet, served with fresh berries.

Don’t forget, Birch River Grill has a great space for private dining events. Perfect for graduations, birthdays and showers!

Birch River Grill serves rustic American gourmet comfort food. Weekend hours for the restaurant are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. The lounge stays open one hour later. All major credit cards are accepted. Complimentary parking is available. For reservations or more information, please contact Birch River Grill at (847) 427-4242.


Glen Prairie
1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill.
(630)-613-1250
http://www.glenpairie.com/

This is your last chance to enjoy Glen Prairie’s May specials which include a $20 three-course meal featuring a choice of an appetizer, entrée and dessert in addition to their regular menu after 5 p.m. This special is only available this weekend, May 29 through May 31.

For an appetizer, choose from a Farmers Garden Salad, baby greens, grilled sweet corn, green onions, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers with champagne-cider vinaigrette dressing; Caramelized Bermuda Onion Soup, with herbed croutons and Laack Brothers Swiss & Gruyere cheese; or Organic Tomato Gazpacho Soup, with cucumber, crème Fraiche and croutons.

For the entrée, choose either Grilled Duroc Pork Tenderloin, with caramelized fig and port sauce, Minnesota wild rice and baby vegetables; House Made Spaghetti, with summer squash, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and Peppato cheese; or Spiced Grilled Missouri Catfish, with sweet peas, roasted fingerling potatoes with a rémoulade sauce.

Top it all off with your choice of the Daily Sorbets, served with fresh berries.

Glen Prairie serves contemporary American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local Midwest flavors and products. Glen Prairie is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday. The lounge remains open one hour later than the restaurant each day. For more details, contact the restaurant at (630) 613-1250 or http://www.glenprairie.com/.


Karma
510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, Ill.;
(847)-970-6900
http://www.karmachicago.com/

Join Karma this weekend, May 29 through May 31 and enjoy a $20 prix-fixe three-course meal for dinner.

For the appetizer pick from either the Miso Soup, tofu, sautéed shitake mushrooms, scallions and roasted nori; or the Karma House Salad, crisp lettuce, napa cabbage, cucumber, daikon and carrot ginger dressing.

For your main course choose from Thai Chili Beef, stir fried spiced beef tenderloin with Chinese noodles and baby bok choy, in mirin-miso beef broth (may be substituted for shrimp or chicken; Seared Breast of Peking Duck, duck confit moo shu crepe with raspberry and Thai sauce; or the Asian BBQ Salmon, forbidden rice, sweet potato crisps, wok tossed spinach, napa cabbage and shitake mushroom.

Finish up your meal with Sorbet or Ice Cream for dessert.

Karma is an elegant and sophisticated restaurant with a zen-laced atmosphere that serves Pan-Asian cuisine. Weekend dinner hours for Karma are 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. The lounge stays open one extra hour each night. Karma is located adjacent to the Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore at 510 East Route 83, Mundelein, Ill. 60060. For reservations, call Karma at (847) 970-6900.

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Don't miss Human Rhythm Project's Three World Premieres This Weekend

On May 29-31, in honor of National Tap Dance Day, Chicago Human Rhythm Project presents an exciting program featuring three world premieres, the superman of tap, Jason Samuels Smith and the Chicago debut of the Brazilian body band … Barbatuques!

Founded by musician Fernando Barba, Barbatuques creates a visual and aural spectacle by combining Afro-Brazilian chants, stomping, shuffling, body drumming, and other vocal and movement techniques.


And if that
isn’t enough, this dynamic group will be joined by Emmy award winner and Broadway star, Jason Samuels Smith, as well as the Chicago Human Rhythm Project's resident tap ensemble BAM! BAM! will premiere pieces choreographed by Ted Levy, sand dancer Guillem Alonso, and Barabatuques' Bruno Buarque.

To see videos of these performers and for more information go to www.chicagotap.org and click on “Windy City Rhythms”. For tickets, go to here or call (312)397-4010

May 29-31 Nightly at 7:30 PM
Chicago Human Rhythm Project presents
Windy City Rhythms performances

featuring

Brazil’s body drumming band Barbatuques
Emmy Award winner tap genius Jason Samuels Smith
CHRP's acclaimed tap ensemble - BAM!
At the Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL
Tickets are $35 - discounts for MCA members and students

Sweet Baby Ray's Launches Regional 'Cue Specials for Summer

Now that it's officially summer, head to Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant (800 E. Higgins Rd., Elk Grove Village; 847-437-9555) for the new American regional barbecue menus. Monthly selections include Eastern North Carolina (June), Kansas City (July) and Texas (August) style barbecue, offered alongside the resto's authentic and high quality Chicago style barbecue.

June offers Eastern North Carolina style barbecue, inspired by the way Eastern North Carolina uses the whole hog for its barbecue. Sweet Baby Ray’s offers the Chopped Pork Sandwich, made from a whole smoked pig, including flavors of the shoulder, butt, tenderloin, ham, ribs, belly and hocks, served on a bun with a side of Carolina coleslaw, hush puppies and Eastern Carolina’s unique vinegar-based barbecue sauce (no tomato or sugar) on the side ($9.49). Rib lovers can add a one-third slab of ribs for just $4.

Since Kansas City is thought by many to be the ‘barbecue capital of America’ and the home of the American Royal, the world’s largest BBQ competition, the Sweet Baby Ray’s team is pleased to add the city’s barbecue style to its all-star lineup during the month of July. The restaurant’s rendition of Kansas City style barbecue is the Quarter Smoked Chicken with Burnt Ends, similar to brisket reduction, served with the Original Sweet Baby Ray’s Stovetop Recipe BBQ Sauce, a side of Kansas City style barbecue beans, Kansas City coleslaw and white bread ($10.49). Guests can add one-third slab of Baby Back or St. Louis ribs for only $4.

During the hot month of August, Sweet Baby Ray’s introduces its version of Texas Brisket offered lean or “with flavor,” served with the rich flavors from the fatty part of the brisket. The special menu includes a trio of Texas flavors with smoked brisket, smoked sausage (imported from Southside Market in Elgin, Texas) and pork spareribs, all served Texas style with Sweet Baby Ray’s own Texas barbecue sauce, barbecue beans and potato salad, complimented with all-you-care-to-eat pickles, onions, jalapeño peppers, saltines and white bread ($11.49).

In addition to the specials during these summer months, customers can order the signature Chicago-style barbecue dishes from the original menu. A restaurant favorite and a top selling item is the Pulled Pork Sandwich, seasoned with Sweet Baby Ray’s special rub, smoked low and slow for up to 12 hours, hand pulled with love, and infused with The Boss for $8.99. True Sweet Baby Ray’s fans can enjoy A Full Slab of Baby Back Ribs for $19.99.

Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant is located at 800 E. Higgins Rd., Elk Grove Village, Ill. (847) 437-9555. The restaurant is open Monday and Tuesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday Noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday Noon to 9 p.m. Sweet Baby Ray’s also offers a private room for special occasions. To learn more about Sweet Baby Ray’s, call (847) 437-9555 or visit online at http://www.sbrbbq.com/.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Don't Forget about ASLF's 2nd Annual "Save the Girls" Fundraiser



Don’t forget about A Silver Lining Foundation’s (ASLF) 2nd annual “Save the Girls” fundraiser 6:30 p.m. tomorrow, May 28th at Enoteca Piattini (934 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, 773-935-8466). Enjoy a night of Italian food, drinks and prizes while raising money for the ASLF’s Buy a Mom a Mammogram program.

There’s still time to purchase tickets for $30 online or by calling (312) 345-1322. Tickets are $35 at the door. For more information on this event and Buy a Mom a Mammogram, please visit http://www.asilverliningfoundation.org/.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Chicago Gateway Green Announces Fourth Annual Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament presented by Horseshoe Casino July 15

Chicago Gateway Green announces its Fourth Annual Texas Hold ‘Em charity tournament beginning at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 15 at Galleria Marchetti (825 W. Erie St., Chicago). Texas Hold ‘Em players buy-in with a $150 donation, which earns them $5,000 in chips and the chance to win the grand prize donated by Horseshoe Casino, just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago: a spot in the 2010 World Series of Poker Tournament in Las Vegas, Nev.

In addition to Texas Hold ‘Em, a variety of other gaming has been added to this year’s event including roulette, craps and black jack. There also will be ‘Sit and Go’ tables where eliminated players have the opportunity to buy back in to poker games, although they will no longer be eligible for the grand prize.

For those not trying their luck at the tables, spectator admission is $25. Guests are encouraged to ‘get in the game,’ and take a chance for a great cause.

Due to the charitable nature of this event, no cash is awarded; however, all players are eligible for a variety of prizes for each of the games. All proceeds benefit Chicago Gateway Green, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the greening and beautification of Chicago.

“We have poker players from all over the state and across the country play in this tournament,” says Vince Pagone, managing director of Chicago Gateway Green. “It’s for a terrific cause, and the grand prize is really a priceless opportunity. We’re fortunate to have Horseshoe Casino continue their generous support of Chicago Gateway Green for this event.”

In 2008, more than 120 players participated, including local media personality Richard Roeper, columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times as well as other celebrities, including television personalities Mookie Lee from Survivor: Fiji, and Ali Azhar of HGTV fame.

This year’s event promises even more celebrity participation including WBBM-FM B96 afternoon personalities, Stylz and Roman, who serve as celebrity emcees for the event providing special announcements and commentary throughout the evening.

Last year’s event raised more than $30,000 for Chicago Gateway Green to continue their mission of the greening and beautification of Chicago’s expressways, gateways and neighborhoods.

“We are very happy to be working with Chicago Gateway Green and Horseshoe Casino on this charity tournament again this year, and hope to raise even more money for a wonderful cause that improves the quality of life in Chicago,” says event producer Michelle Durpetti, managing partner of McGowan Durpetti & Associates, a Chicago-based event production firm specializing in event management, creative development and production.

Guests at the event also are treated to a lavish appetizer buffet as well as an open bar with soft drinks, beer, wine and premium spirits with the admission fee. An outdoor patio lounge invites guests to take a break from the game and enjoy the lush Marchetti garden setting and other amenities including a professional cigar roller.

Chicago Gateway Green is happy to have a number of charitable donors and partners for this year’s event including Horseshoe Casino, Chicago Magazine, WBBM-AM, 96.3 WBBM-FM, Votre Vu, Diva Limousine, SYN Vodka, 316 Barber Spa, Joseph A. Bank and Kurman Communications, Inc. Special thanks to North Bank whose volunteers are acting as the evening’s charitable gaming cashiers.

About Horseshoe Casino
The all new 500 million-dollar Horseshoe Casino, a Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. property, just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago is the premier entertainment and gaming destination in Chicagoland. Where legendary gaming lives on, Horseshoe boasts more than 350,000 square feet with 3,200 slot machines, nearly 100 table games, the largest poker room in the Midwest, keno and more. The Venue at Horseshoe Casino is proud to offer the ultimate concert and entertainment destination. In conjunction with AEG Live and created by the award-winning designers of Sceno Plus, The Venue offers a premier experience in a flexible space that can hold up to 4,000 guests. Dining elegance is not overlooked and guests can choose from a variety of dining options including; Jack Binion's Steak House which overlooks Lake Michigan, around-the-globe variety at the Village Square Buffet, a taste of Chicago at Benny's Home Cookin’, and scrumptious fare at J.B.s Gourmet Sandwiches and Salads. For more information, call 866-711-SHOE or visit www.chicagohorseshoe.com.

About Chicago Gateway Green
The charitable gaming license number for this event is CG-01597. Proceeds from the Texas Hold ‘Em event will benefit Chicago Gateway Green, a non-profit organization that has been dedicated to the greening and beautification of expressways, gateways and neighborhoods of Chicago for more than 20 years. For more information about the organization, call (312) 540-9930 or visit www.gatewaygreen.org.

Sweet Baby Ray's and Birch River Grill on TV Memorial Day

It was an exciting weekend for two Kurman clients, which both had television appearances on Memorial Day (May 25). First up was Birch River Grill's (75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights) executive chef John Ayaleanos on CBS's morning news, grilling fish tacos with anchor Don Schwenneker. Chef John's grilled wahoo and accompanying cilantro mayonnaise, roasted peppers and warm corn tortillas created wonderful aromas in the CBS studio.

In case you missed it, view it here. For more information on Birch River Grill, visit http://www.birchrivergrill.com/ or call (847) 427-4242.

Later in the day, Sweet Baby Ray's (800 E. Higgins Rd., Elk Grove Village) chef Paul Papadopoulos appeared on WGN's midday news with anchor Dina Bair, to grill outside with Sweet Baby Ray's signature sauce. Chef Paul also showed Dina how to make traditional Carolina-style barbecue, which features no tomatoes and a whole roasted pig. The restaurant features this Carolina barbecue on special throughout the month of June.

View the segment here. For more information on Sweet Baby Ray's, visit http://www.sbrbbq.com/ or call (847) 437-9555.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Obama's Memorial Day Breakfast with Vets and Pamela's P&G Diner

The call came on Wednesday, says Gail Klingensmith, partner of Pittsburgh's favorite pancake house Pamela's P&G. Thanks to Obama's personal aid Reggie Love who recalled how much Obama enjoyed his meal during a campaign stop in Pittsburgh last year, Pamela Cohen and Gail are heading to D.C. The two have been invited to cook Obama's favorite pancakes for 80 war veterans joining Obama at the White House Memorial Day breakfast. Gail and Pam wanted to bring their staff along but that was nixed by White House security. White House executive chef Cristeta (Cris) Comerford told them not to worry. They will have the full support of Obama's kitchen team. On the menu: Pamela's P&G very thin, crispy-edged pancakes, plain and with strawberries. Read the original story here.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Father’s Day and Summer Months Upcoming Specials

GLEN PRAIRIE LOCAL FLAVOR FINE FOOD & DRINK
1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill. 60137
(630) 613-1250
www.glenprairie.com

Father’s Day Specials at Glen Prairie
Celebrate Father’s day with the whole family mark the beginning of summer with entrees straight from the grill at Glen Prairie Local Fine Food & Drink. Choose from a variety of meals including Spice Rubbed Baby Back Pork Ribs, with kickin’ BBQ sauce (full slab $22, half slab $15); Grilled Half Amish Chicken, with pineapple brown sugar glaze ($21); Half Slab Ribs and Half Chicken Combo ($30); and The “COWBOY” Bone-in Iowa Farmed Beef, ribeye steak simply grilled ($34).

Each entrée includes a choice of two sides. Choose from Homemade BBQ pork and beans, grilled sweet corn, creamy coleslaw, loaded baked potato, French fries, mashed potatoes, mac n’ cheese and sautéed green beans. All sides are $4 if purchased separately. These specials will run noon to 10 p.m. on Father’s Day, June 21.

Glen Prairie is located at 1250 Roosevelt Rd. in Glen Ellyn, Ill. in Chicago’s western suburbs. Glen Prairie’s 60-seat dining room and 40-seat lounge is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 365 days a year. Glen Prairie also boasts private dining seating for up to 40 guests. Glen Prairie is open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday. The lounge remains open one hour later than the restaurant each day. For more details, contact the restaurant at (630) 613-1250 or http://www.glenprairie.com/.


KARMA ASIAN FOOD & FINE WINE
510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, Ill. 60060
(847) 970-6900
www.karmachicago.com

Father’s Day Special
Father’s Day is just around the corner, so make plans to treat Dad with something special. Come on in to Karma from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. to celebrate the occasion. Entrées include Char Grilled 24 oz. Porterhouse, served with a lime ginger glaze, Wasabi aioli shoestring potatoes and baby vegetables ($39); Wild Mushroom Stuffed Veal Chop, with a pepper bacon twice baked potato and grilled asparagus; Chipotle Tempura Shrimp, served with Forbidden rice and steamed baby bok choy ($25); and Asian BBQ Chicken, with spiced chili risotto and stir fried julienne vegetables ($20).

Karma is open seven days a week. Breakfast is served from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.; lunch hours are 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; dinner is served from 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The lounge stays open one extra hour each night. Karma is located adjacent to the Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore at 510 East Route 83, Mundelein, Ill. 60060. For reservations, call Karma at (847) 970-6900.

MAXWELL’S AT THE CLUB
500 N. Kingsbury St., Chicago, Ill. 60654
(312) 527-5800 Ext. 301
www.eastbankclub.com

Father’s Day Specials at Maxwell’s
Come to Maxwell’s at the Club, open to the public and East Bank Club members, and celebrate Father’s Day with loved ones. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. enjoy the all-you-can-eat buffet, $45 for adults and $15 for children under 10 years old. Choose from a variety of appetizers, salads and entrees. Also included is a carving room and omelet and waffle station.

Appetizers include Chilled Shrimp Cocktail, with cocktail sauce and lemon; Chilled Poached and Roasted Salmon with mustard sauce; Lox and Cream Cheese; Sliced Tomatoes and Red Onions; Toasted Bagels, with chive cream cheese; Granola Parfaits; and Seasonal Fresh Fruit and Berries.

Salads include a Caesar Salad; Mesclun Greens, with dried cranberries, toasted walnuts and pear vinaigrette; Heirloom Tomato Salad, with balsamic glaze; Chopped Seafood Salad; Blackened Chicken Salad, with corn salsa; Green Bean and Tuna Salad; Creole Potato Salad; Wild Rice and Asparagus Salad; and a Cucumber and Onion Salad.

Choose from entrées like Applewood Smoked Bacon and Sausage Eggs Benedict; Breakfast Potatoes; Sour Cream Pancakes, with whipped butter and syrup; Banana Nut Fritters; Smoked Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash; Roasted Chicken, with roasted potatoes and vegetables; Seafood Quesadillas, with pico de gallo; Grilled Asparagus, with flame-roasted tomato sauce; and Spinich and Roasted Garlic Tortelloni.

Don’t forget to check out the carving room which features Roast Prime Rib of Beef with Au Jus and horseradish sauce; and Roast Rack of Lamb, with mint jelly. Be creative at the omelet and waffle station which also includes breakfast pastries and desserts.

Maxwell’s at the Club is located in Chicago’s East Bank Club (500 N. Kingsbury St., 312-527-5800, Ext. 301). Maxwell’s is open weekdays 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. for lunch and 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. for dinner. The bar and lounge is open 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Sunday brunch is served 10 a.m.-2 p.m. until June 28. Sunday brunch will return at Maxwell’s at the Club in the fall. Reservations are strongly recommended. For more information visit online at http://www.eastbankclub.com/


SWEET BABY RAY’S
800 E. Higgins Rd., Elk Grove Village, Ill.60007
(847) 437-9555
www.sbrbbq.com

Father’s Day Specials at Sweet Baby Ray’s
Celebrate Father’s Day Sunday, June 21 by treating Dad to a buffet at Sweet Baby Ray’s 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy an Outdoor Patio Grill Station including southern style spit roasted pig, tortilla bar, homemade salsas and all the fixings, fresh made bratwurst and sausage, mini garlic burgers, shrimp and sausage skewers and Jamaican jerk chicken wings.

The Carving Station features barbecue brisket and smoked pork loin, plus seafood selections including smoked salmon, shrimp and grilled mahi-mahi. On-site smoked barbecue ribs and chicken are also available.

The Breakfast Items include made-to-order omelets; eggs Benedict; French toast; Southern style biscuits and gravy; assorted breakfast meats, cheeses and fruit; plus a variety of salads; and much more. Adults can enjoy the Bloody Mary Bar ($7.99).

The buffet is $28.95, and $14.99 for children. Reservations are required and can be made at (847) 437-9555.

Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant is located at 800 E. Higgins Rd., Elk Grove Village, Ill. (847) 437-9555. The restaurant is open Monday and Tuesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday Noon to 9 p.m. Sweet Baby Ray’s also offers a private room for special occasions. To learn more about Sweet Baby Ray’s, call (847) 437-9555 or visit online at http://www.sbrbbq.com/.


WALLY & AGADOR’S GOURMET CAFE
3310 N. Halsted St., Chicago, Ill. 60657
(773) 325-9664
www.wallyandagadorscafe.com

On the go for Father’s Day? Stop in at the new Wally & Agador’s Gourmet Café for fine dining food without the fine dining price. Pick up fresh, gourmet sandwiches to share with Dad and the family from acclaimed chef/owner Michael Lachowicz at his new Boystown hot spot.

Choose a sandwich such as The Esther Williams, lobster and scallop sausage nestled in butter lettuce leaves with tarragon mayo in a soft potato roll dusted with old bay seasoning ($12); Rosie’s Mambo Italiano, thinly-shaved prosciutto, Taleggio cheese, grilled scallions, roasted red peppers, fresh basil and a drizzle of truffle oil on toasted rosemary flatbread ($10); The Elton John, chicken sausage studded with dried huckleberries on brioche with truffle sauce shallot jam and pommes frites ($11); or the Just Jack!, brown sugar-roasted organic breast of turkey (or ham) with preserved tomato petals, butter lettuce and Monterey jack cheese on brioche ($8). Sandwiches all include a bag of housemade chips or a side salad with housemade dressing.

Don’t let the “diva” inspired sandwich names fool Dad, as these sandwiches are fit for a manly appetite. Wally & Agador’s also serves fully prepared entrées from Lachowicz’s Restaurant Michael in Winnetka, Ill. which are sure to please Dad.

Wally & Agador’s is located at 3310 N. Halsted St. in Chicago’s Boystown neighborhood. Hours are Sunday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight. Catering and office party delivery is available. Phone orders are accepted at (773) 325-9664. For more information visit www.wallyandagadorscafe.com.

Friday, May 15, 2009

Dining Deals: Birch River Grill, Karma and Glen Prairie

Looking for dining deals? Check out these suburban hotspots and discover which one fits your style best.

Birch River Grill
75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, Ill.
(847) 427-4242
http://www.birchrivergrill.com/

On May 15 through May 17 Birch River Grill offers a $20 prix fixe three-course meal in addition to their regular menu after 5 p.m.

Begin your meal with your choice of an appetizer such as the BRG Salad, baby greens, shredded Michigan carrots, beefsteak tomato wedges, seedless cucumber slices with your choice of dressing; Granny Apple Onion Soup, with paprika parmesan croutons, Wisconsin Swiss and provolone cheese; or the Soup of the Day.

Next, choose an entrée that intrigues your taste buds. Try the BBQ Glazed Bacon Wrapped Boneless Pork Chop, served with potato pancakes with roasted poblano pepper and corn hash; Basil Pesto Crusted North Atlantic Salmon, with teardrop tomato caper relish, lentil ragout and basil pesto drizzle; or the Grilled and Blackened Sirloin; served with roasted Michigan Yukon gold potatoes, steamed Broccolini and Kentucky bourbon reduction.

Finish off with a choice of the Daily Sorbets, served with fresh berries.




Glen Prairie
1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn, Ill.
(630)-613-1250
http://www.glenpairie.com/

Glen Prairie also offers a three-course meal featuring a choice of an appetizer, entrée and dessert in addition to their regular menu after 5 p.m.

From the appetizers choose from a Farmers Garden Salad, baby greens, grilled sweet corn, green onions, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers with champagne-cider vinaigrette dressing; Caramelized Bermuda Onion Soup, with herbed croutons and Laack Brothers Swiss & Gruyere cheese; or Organic Tomato Gazpacho Soup, with cucumber, crème Fraiche and croutons.

For the entrée choose either Grilled Duroc Pork Tenderloin, with caramelized fig and port sauce, Minnesota wild rice and baby vegetables; House Made Spaghetti, with summer squash, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and Peppato cheese; and Spiced Grilled Missouri Catfish, with sweet peas, roasted fingerling potatoes with a rémoulade sauce.

Top it all off with your choice of the Daily Sorbets, served with fresh berries.




Karma
510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, Ill.;
(847)-970-6900
http://www.karmachicago.com/

For only $20 indulge in a prix fixe three-course meal from Karma May 15 through May 17.

Start off your meal with Miso Soup, tofu, sautéed shiitake mushroom, scallions and roasted nori; or have the House Salad, crisp lettuce, napa cabbage, cucumber with daikon and carrot ginger dressing.

From there, choose from a list of entrées including Orange Peel Tempura Chicken, with sesame jasmine rice, ginger chili cucumber salad, and yuzu orange glaze; Asian BBQ Salmon, forbidden rice, sweet potato crisps, wok tossed spinach, napa cabbage and shiitake mushroom; and Yellow Mango Vegetable Curry, spring vegetables tossed with coconut yellow curry, jasmine rice and kimchi.

Conclude your meal with Ice Cream or Sorbet with fresh berries.

Try out these delicious suburban restaurants and enjoy!

Thursday, May 14, 2009

A Silver Lining Foundation Hosts "Save the Girls" on May 28th

Don’t miss the 2nd annual “Save the Girls” fundraiser 6:30 p.m. May 28th at Enoteca Piattini (934 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, (773)935-8466). Enjoy great Italian food and drinks while mingling to raise money for the Buy a Mom a Mammogram program, which provides no-cost mammograms to uninsured and underinsured patients.

Attendees can also participate in a chance to win fabulous prizes in a raffle. Some raffle items include Cubs and White Sox tickets, mountain bikes and many more!

For every six guests at the Save the Girls event, one woman in Chicago will receive a potentially lifesaving mammogram.

Buy your tickets now for $30 online or at the door for $35. For more information on this event and Buy a Mom a Mammogram, please visit http://www.asilverliningfoundation.org/.

Don’t miss out on a fun night in the city for a great cause!

Community Outreach Health Fair a Huge Success for ASLF


A Silver Lining Foundation's Community Outreach Health Fair was a great success this past Saturday May 9 at George Washington High School in Chicago! More than 200 people came to the family focused event. Attendees participated in the popular healthy cooking demonstrations and received health screenings of all different types.

The Health Fair provided attendees with the opportunity to qualify for no-cost screening mammograms. More than a dozen women qualified.


Volunteer Camille Obrochta, Kristin Kipp, Carrie Handley and Dr. Sandy Goldberg welcoming attendees to the Health Fair.


Check out some pictures from this weekend here!

Friday, May 8, 2009

ASLF's Carrie Handley on WGN-TV

In case you missed it, A Silver Lining Foundation's Carrie Handley appeared on WGN TV's Midday News yesterday to discuss ASLF's Buy A Mom A Mammogram program, as well as ASLF's Community Outreach Health Fair. Carrie sat down with WGN anchor Dina Bair, and they chatted about the importance of early detection and making charitable contributions even in hard economic times.

View the segment here. Don't forget to stop by the Community Outreach Health Fair from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, May 9 at George Washington High School (3535 E. 114th St., Chicago). At the event, receive free health testing for the whole family, health information, food, a special children's health area, and pre-qualify for no-cost mammograms.

For more information, call A Silver Lining Foundation at (312) 345-1322 or visit http://www.asilverliningfoundation.org/.

Author Kathleen Flinn Comes to Chicago

Kathleen Flinn, chef and author of "The Sharper Your Knife, The Less You Cry," is here in Chicago this weekend for several appearances, including one last night at a gathering of professionals from the International Association of Culinary Professionals, of which she is chair of the Food Writers, Editors & Publishers section. Flinn chatted with guests gathered at the event, including Kurman's own Stephanie DeMeester and Catherine Patterson.

Coming up next for Flinn, who's in town through the weekend, is a lecture 10 a.m. Saturday, May 9 at the Chicago History Museum (1601 N. Clark St.) She will also sign copies of the book, with the proceeds going to the sponsors of the event, the Culinary Historians of Chicago. Flinn's visit also celebrates the 10-year anniversary of Chez Joel Bistro (1119 W. Taylor St.), where there will be a luncheon in her honor hosted by ChicaGourmets.

Interested in attending the lecture and meeting Kathleen Flinn? The lecture is $5, $3 for students and no charge for members of the Culinary Historians of Chicago. To reserve, call Barbara Olson at (708) 788-0338.

Afterwards, at 12:30 p.m., the action moves to Chez Joel for a reception, lunch and book signing. Cost is $59.50, inclusive, for members of ChicaGourmets and the Culinary Historians and $69.50 for nonmembers. For information, or to register, call (847) 571-1499, or go to http://www.chicagourmets.org/.
Photo Credit: Roger Steen

Virtual Birthday Party to Raise $20,000 for Pediatric Cancer Research

Today is the birthday of Chicagoan Theresa Carter, better known to some as "The Local Tourist." Instead of presents or cake for her birthday this year, Carter wants to raise $20,000 for pediatric cancer research. Her deadline is tonight (May 8) at midnight.

The reason? Carter lost both sides of her family from cancer. Her maternal grandfather battled illness for 10 years, but finally lost his battle with cancer. Her paternal grandmother passed away less than two years ago from cancer.

On June 22, Carter will head to Tanzania, Africa with Endure to Cure founder Jason Sissel to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. For the geography buffs, Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world!

"Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro represents the struggle my grandparents endured before they died from cancer, and the struggle that every cancer victim must go through" says Carter. "It won't be easy, and it's going to be a lot of work, but there are also going to be moments of great beauty and joy. It's a pretty obvious metaphor for life, albeit an extreme one!"

Since she's celebrating her birthday virtually this year with the help of generous donations, Carter is the one dishing out the gifts. Four random people who donate will be chosen to accompany her with a guest on a special sunset Lake Michigan cruise June 7. The cruise will be aboard the Free Spirit Cruise's Gypsy Spirit. Two oether donors to Carter's cause will win four tickets for a Windy City Film Tour.

To make a donation for "The Local Tourist's" cause, visit her athlete page on the Endure to Cure Web site, here. Remember, the deadline is midnight tonight! For more information, contact Carter at (312) 828-7466 or via e-mail at tlc@thelocaltourist.com.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Wally and Agador's Gourmet Cafe Grand Opening Tomorrow, May 8

Acclaimed chef/owner Michael Lachowicz will bring his classic French techniques to the city with Wally & Agador’s Gourmet Café (3310 N. Halsted St., 773-325-9664), a gourmet sandwich shop and cafe celebrating its grand opening Friday, May 8.

Lachowicz, who owns the highly regarded Restaurant Michael in Winnetka, Ill., is taking his fine dining entrees, and creating their gourmet sandwich counterparts which range in price $7-$12 each. “It doesn’t have to be fine dining to be great food,” he says. “All of the gourmet sandwiches at Wally & Agador’s are made with the same classic French techniques that are used in a restaurant, but without the fuss and expense.”

Wally & Agador’s, named after Lachowicz’s two “diva” dogs, serves a variety of diva-inspired housemade sandwiches such as The Judy Garland, Grilled Portabella Mushroom, Robiola Cheese and Sliced Artichoke Hearts on Multi-Grain Ciabatta with Green and Black Olive Tapanade ($8); Rosie’s Mambo Italiano, Thinly-Shaved Proscuitto, Taleggio Cheese, Grilled Scallions, Roasted Peppers, Fresh Basil and a Drizzle of Truffle Oil on Toasted Rosemary Flatbread ($10); Wham Sammich, Slow-Cooked “Sous Vide” Leg of Lamb, Thyme, Garlic and Black Pepper Mayo Served in a Warm Baguette with Fresh Laura Chenel Goat’s Cheese and Eggplant “Caviar” ($10); and The Elton John, Chicken Sausage Studded with Dried Huckleberries on Brioche with Truffle Sauce Shallot Jam and Pommes Frites ($11), pictured.

The namesake, sweeter sandwiches include The Wally, Peanut Butter, Marshmallow Fluff and Sliced Bananas on a Batter-Dipped Croissant ($7); and The Agador, Nutella, Marshmallow Fluff and Sliced Bananas on a Batter-Dipped Croissant ($7), both served warm. All sandwiches include a complimentary small side salad with a choice of housemade salad dressing, or homemade chips.

Wally & Agador’s also features several pre-made take away items supplied by Restaurant Michael. Composed salad creations served by the pound include “Mr. Gee’s” Creamy Potato Salad, Michael’s grandfather’s recipe ($5); Roasted Yukon Gold, Italian Sausage and Spring Pea Salad ($7); Truffle-Scented Albacore Tuna salad with Grilled Red Onion ($11); and Lightly Cured Grilled Chicken, Pine Nut and Currant Salad ($12). Gourmet deli selections served by the pound include Restaurant Michael’s House-Curried and Smoked Salmon ($18); Classic Duck Confit ($14); and “Le Français” Chicken Liver Mousse ($10). Wally & Agador’s will also feature three extraordinary entrée selections from Restaurant Michael which will rotate each week.

For the at home chefs, Wally & Agador’s offers a Veal Demi Glace (Gluten Free) ($12 per quart); and Classic Bordelaise, Port Wine or Truffle Lamb Jus ($14 per quart).

Pastry creations at Wally & Agador’s include Toasted Almond Biscotti ($1 for four); Tahitian Vanilla Panna Cotta ($2.50); Grand Marnier Valrhona Chocolate Truffles ($11 per half pound); Valrhona Chocolate Fallen Soufflés ($4); Valrhona Pot de Crème ($2.50); and Blueberry-Almond Financier ($4).

Beverages include a variety of Coca-Cola products, Izze beverages, gourmet bottled iced teas, Evian bottled water and San Pellegrino sparkling water.

The 16-seat space features vivid red walls decorated with black-and-white portraits of the divas after which the gourmet sandwiches are named. The opposing wall features photography for sale by local artist, Ron Reason.

“Wally & Agador’s offers a gourmet experience in a vibrant, yet casual atmosphere,” says Lachowicz. “We’re happy to bring this unique, casual concept to the city.”

Wally & Agador’s Gourmet Cafe, located at 3310 N. Halsted St. in Chicago’s Boystown neighborhood, is open Sunday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight. Catering and office party delivery is available. Phone orders are accepted at (773) 325-9664. For more information visit http://www.wallyandagadorscafe.com/.

(Photos: Cindy Kurman)

Monday, May 4, 2009

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Ole! Cinco de Mayo is here, and it's time to celebrate. Head to suburban hot spot Birch River Grill (75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights) for margarita madness and crisp Coronas.

Birch River Grill offers $2 Coronas, $5 margaritas, and their specialty Tequila Mockingbird, a cocktail made with tequila, Triple Sec, lime juice, cranberry juice, and Chambord ($5).

Stick around for Birch River Grill's contemporary American menu. For reservations or more information, call (847) 427-4242 or visit http://www.birchrivergrill.com/. Andale!