Guanajuato is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located at 73 Green Bay Rd. in Glencoe, Ill. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days per week. The bar is open Monday through Wednesday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 4 p.m. to midnight; Saturday, Noon to Midnight; and Sunday, Noon to 10 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Guanajuato at (847) 242-0909 or online at http://www.myguanajuato.com/.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Spend New Year's Eve with Guanajuato
Guanajuato is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located at 73 Green Bay Rd. in Glencoe, Ill. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days per week. The bar is open Monday through Wednesday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 4 p.m. to midnight; Saturday, Noon to Midnight; and Sunday, Noon to 10 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Guanajuato at (847) 242-0909 or online at http://www.myguanajuato.com/.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Urban Acupuncture: Make Your Everlasting New Year’s Resolution a Reality in 2011
So what can you do differently this coming year, to ensure that you will stick to your resolution? Consider the ancient treatment, acupuncture! Known for its curative powers dating back more than 8,000 years, acupuncture reduces stress, helps people quit smoking and lose weight.
“From what I have personally seen, acupuncture curbs cravings and irritability that come along with dieting, ultimately helping with correcting food choices,” says licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.), Kyla Boles of Urban Acupuncture (3020 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago; (773) 727-5042).
It is important to understand how the tiny needles are inserted into the body and how they can help with weight-loss. “People are nervous at the thought of acupuncture needles,” says Kyla. “Acupuncture needles will not send you out of the room screaming.” They are virtually painless, feeling like a slight pinch to ‘I didn’t even know you started.’ Compared to the hollow, hypodermic needles used by doctors, acupuncture needles are very, very thin. In fact, 40 acupuncture needles can fit into the tip of a standard hypodermic needle.
Acupuncture steals the show when it comes to stress relief. When the hair-thin needles are inserted into specific points of the body, endorphins are released. Acupuncture creates a calming, relaxing effect, making it easier to deal with everyday stress that is often associated with weight gain. Additionally, those endorphins affect the organ systems related to metabolism and can aid in metabolic and hormonal issues.
Of course acupuncture is not the answer alone. Acupuncture should be combined with a committed lifestyle change including healthy eating and a moderate exercise regimen.
Urban Acupuncture uses not only acupuncture but also other forms of Oriental Medicine to treat a variety of conditions.
Consider yourself in good hands. Kyla's training in acupuncture and Chinese herbology is impressive. She is a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine (Dipl.OM.) and has received a Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine (MSTOM) from one of the most prominent colleges training Oriental Medicine practitioners in the U.S., Pacific College of Oriental Medicine.
During the first visit, a thorough health history is taken to get a better understanding of the person. Oriental Medicine focuses on treating the person as a whole rather than just the specific problem. Typical appointments last one hour and should be scheduled weekly for best results.
Don’t make another dreading New Year’s resolution that you won’t keep. Turn the “I’m going to get in shape,” to “I am in shape and I feel wonderful!”
For more information, visit the Urban Acupuncture at http://www.urbanacupuncturechicago.com/ or call (773) 727-5042.
Consider a healthy fig-sesame jam recipe to help ease digestion.
Fig-Sesame Jam Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup sugar
¾ cup water
2 lbs firm-ripe fresh figs, trimmed and quartered
2 (3-by-1-inch) strips from fresh lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
¼ cup sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions:
Simmer sugar and water in a heavy saucepan; stir until sugar is dissolved. Gently stir in figs, zest and lemon juice. Simmer uncovered until thick and syrupy (1 ¾ to 2 hours). Gently add toasted sesame seeds.
Recipe adapted from Gourmet Magazine, August 2001.
Source: Komada, J. L.Ac. (2010). How to lose the weight and keep it off with acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Acupuncture Referral Service. Retrieved from www.acufinder.com
Restaurant Trends and Predictions for 2011
Each year brings a wealth of growth and change in the restaurant industry. Chicago boasts a number of influential restaurateurs, chefs and foodies whose hands are at the pulse of those changes. We polled our clients to see what trends they predict for 2011, and weigh-in on a few of our own. We were delighted to see so many similarities.
BELLA BACINOS
36 S. La Grange Rd., La Grange, Ill.
(708) 352-8882
http://www.bacinos.com/
Bella Bacinos owner, Dan Bacin, predicts that the restaurant food trend for the year 2011 will reflect highly on local and organic foods when possible. Bella Bacinos prepares its one-of-a-kind pizzas with 100% real Wisconsin cheese. Neither preservatives nor MSG will ever be found in Bella Bacinos’ pizza.
About Bella Bacinos La Grange
Bella Bacinos serves authentic Napoletana wood fired pizza, homemade ravioli and other Italian specialties in the restaurant’s dining room and outdoor patio. Bella Bacinos’ award-winning wine list includes more than 600 wines from around the world, including more than 20 served by the glass. The restaurant is located at 36 S. La Grange Rd., Downtown La Grange, Ill. Winter hours are 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, and is closed Monday but available for private events. For private events or more information, call Dan Bacin’s cell phone at (708) 420-9600 or visit http://www.bacinos.com./
About Bistro One West
Bistro One West is a contemporary fresh American Restaurant located at 1 W. Illinois St. in St. Charles, Ill. The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The dining room bar is open from 11 a.m. to close. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, contact Bistro One West at (630) 444-0600 or visit http://www.bistro1west.com/. Follow Bistro One West on Twitter at @Bistro1West, and “Like” them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BistroOneWest.
EVEREST BURGER (coming mid-January)
91 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, Ill.
No Phone Yet
“Burgers, burgers, burgers,” says Everest Burger owners, Mark and Margarita Challenger, who finds that burgers will continue to be a trend in the year 2011. Everest Burger, set to open mid-January, is named after Mount Everest, the largest mountain in the world. With the idea that burgers from Everest Burger being apex, their tasty burgers will be hormone free, chemical free, and steroid. Their chicken and turkey burgers will be free range. They'll have vegetarian selections and all will be served on home-made buns, including a gluten-free option.
GUANAJUATO
73 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, Ill.
(847) 242-0501
About Guanajuato
Guanajuato is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located at 73 Green Bay Rd. in Glencoe, Ill. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days per week. The bar is open Monday-Wednesday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 4 p.m. to midnight; Saturday, noon to midnight; and Sunday, noon to 10 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Guanajuato at (847) 242-0909 or online at http://www.myguanajuato.com/.
About Restaurant Michael
Restaurant Michael serves classic haute cuisine in a contemporary presentation with French country flair. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday through Thursday 5:30 p.m. -10:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 5:30 p.m. -11:30 p.m.; and Sunday 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Call for seasonal hours. Complimentary parking is available. Major cards accepted. Be sure to “Like” Restaurant Michael on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RestaurantMichael and follow Michael on Twitter at @RestoMichael. Visit http://www.restaurantmichael.com/ for more information.
SAIGON SISTERS
567 W. Lake St., Chicago, Ill.
(312) 496-0090
http://www.saigonsisters.com/
About Saigon Sisters
Saigon Sisters is a contemporary Vietnamese restaurant located at 567 W. Lake St. in Chicago. The restaurant is open for lunch and late lunch 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; dinner 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and dinner and late-night service 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Sunday. For more information, contact Saigon Sisters at (312) 496-0090 or online at http://www.saigonsisters.com/.
KURMAN COMMUNICATIONS’ TOP 16 RESTAURANT PREDICTIONS FOR 2011
Kurman Communications will be celebrating its 28th anniversary in 2011. We've seen a lot of trends come and go. As representatives of the restaurant and hospitality industry, we’ve kept a keen eye on what we believe will shape the industry this coming year. Here are our predictions for the restaurant industry in 2011 (in no particular order):
2. Deep-fried foods, especially fried chicken and root vegetables (with infused aioli)
3. Miniature desserts - guilt-free tastings
4. Cheap and casual is better than upscale and pricey
5. Food with benefits (i.e. gluten-free, allergy-free, immunity building, etc.)
6. Butchers and charcuterie; house cured and smoked.
7. Simplicity; back to the basics
8. Pop-up restaurants / Food-trucks: chefs take food on the road (with the aid of social media)
9. Pies are the new cupcake
10. One ingredient restaurants: think burgers, grilled cheese, hot dogs - all with a twist toward the upscale/gourmet for adult tastes
11. Lifestyle markets in unusual places with organic/sustainable selections, casual restaurant dining, and cocktails in retail stores, convenient stories and shopping centers (look for Westfield's new market by Richtree coming to Old Orchard this summer)
12. Value without sacrificing taste, quality, or creativity
13. Retro cocktails (bourbon-focused), local craft beers, wines and spirits
14. Fast food: Korean BBQ (actually BBQ everything)
15. Mobile technology for tableside orders and payment, self service and promotion
16. Groupon discount programs grow with a vengeance
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Weekly Specials for Saigon Sisters
Udon, pork broth flavored with Kombu, soy sauce marinated 5:10 egg, roasted pork belly, King and shiitake mushrooms, fish cake and Nori ($12).
Spare Ribs, with rice and pickled veggies, paired with Dogfish Head IPA beer ($12, includes beer).
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Bistro One West now serving lunch
Friday, December 17, 2010
Kurman Staff At Chicago French Market's First "Bon Anniversaire"
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Robert Launay, PhD Presents ‘Appetite for Africa’ This Saturday
Dr. Launay is a Professor of Anthropology and member of the Program of African Studies at Northwestern University. Through his presentation, attendees will learn how Africans have combined native ingredients with imports from Asia and America to develop an overlooked culinary tradition that is distinctive and rich. Dr. Launay’s knowledge can be accredited to the several years he spent in the Ivory Coast living and eating with an African family. Dr. Launay has published two books, several articles about West Africa and descriptions of food in European travel literature.
Attendees are encouraged to get there early as seating is limited. To make a reservation for the lecture, please call Dawn McGlone at (630) 620-1457 or e-mail culinary.historians@gmail.com. The morning lecture is $5 for the public, $3 for students and no charge for CHC members.
An optional, all inclusive luncheon follows the program at an extra cost of $27. Paid reservations are required for the luncheon. Luncheon reservations may be made online by credit card at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/138070 or by phone at (800) 838-3006. The menu includes savory West African dishes including AKARA (Bean Cake), savory, spicy and rich Jollof Rice (Thiebou Jen), Foofoo (pounded yams served with soup), Goat and Groundnut Stew with peanuts, Fish with Attieki (fermented manioc), and Mafe hakoo (beef stewed with cassava or potato leaves). Luncheon dishes are paired with wines.
For more information, please e-mail culinary.historians@gmail.com or call (847) 432-8255.
Free Release Tuesdays at Kurman
This is part of Kurman Communications’ Free Release Tuesday series. Are you a non-profit or charity with an upcoming event? Let us help promote it with our new service, FRT-Free Release Tuesdays.
What is it? All you have to do is send us news on your upcoming event, including the details—date/time, location, images, a link to a website, etc. We’ll pick out top selections and post them on our highly-read 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! Send all materials to kurmanstaff@kurman.com, and remember to follow us on Twitter @kurmanstaff.
Saigon Sisters Restaurant Announces New Weekly Specials
Try their Diver Scallop Dish, seared scallops with red kuri squash broth and grilled persimmon for $17; or one of their noodle dishes: Pork Belly Egg and udon noodle in a rich broth for $13, or Salt and Pepper Prawn with egg noodles for $17.
Saigon Sisters has also added a late night dinner special! From 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays choose from Op La; Pork Belly, Egg and Rice; Charcuterie; or Mussels paired with selected craft beers for $17. You can also try the Carmel Chicken Wings or Pork Spare Ribs paired with Saigon or Great Lakes beer for $11.
Saigon Sisters is the brainchild of owners (and sisters) Mary Nguyen Aregoni and Theresa Nguyen. They were born in Vietnam, lived in Vietnam and Thailand as children and came to the United States with their family. Saigon Sisters is a contemporary Vietnamese restaurant located at 567 W. Lake St. in Chicago, Ill. For more information including a complete menu call (312) 496-0090 or visit http://www.saigonsisters.com/.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Bistro One West brings Fresh American cuisine to the banks of the Fox River in St. Charles
Of course, Guggeis settled for nothing but the best when it came to selecting an executive chef for his new restaurant. D’Avico himself boasts more than 20 years of experience in the kitchen having been professionally trained at the Culinary Institute of America before helming numerous kitchens.
“George has a great vision,” says D’Avico. “The menu at Bistro One West uses fresh ingredients with simple, artisan techniques to create a number of flavor profiles for a high quality, modern American cuisine.”
Dessert features a number of selections, including Caramelized Roasted Banana, baked cinnamon wonton and Nutella cream ($7); Chocolate pot e Crème, roasted pumpkin seed brittle ($7); Bread and Butter Pudding with poached berry compote ($6); and French Butter Cookies, with lemon curd, raspberry jam and chocolate sauce ($7).
Bistro One West is a contemporary fresh American Restaurant located at 1 W. Illinois St. in St. Charles, Ill. The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The dining room bar is open from 11 a.m. to close. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, contact Bistro One West at (630) 444-0600 or visit http://www.bistro1west.com/. Follow Bistro One West on Twitter at @Bistro1West, or "like" them on Facebook.
New Year's Eve Prix-Fixe Selections At Saigon Sisters
Entrees options include: Anise Smoked Duck with honey miso scallops, beet, persimmon and pear; Five Spice Veal Chop with opo squash, mustard greens and candied walnuts; Smoked Tofu with a blood orange glaze, garlic noodles, stir fry Chinese celery and shallots; and Sturgeon with red kuri squash broth.
Dessert is a Vietnamese Che Tri Color. Saigon Sisters’ Che was recently named as one of the “100 Best Things we ate this year” by Time Out Chicago.
Saigon Sisters will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Saigon Sisters is a contemporary Vietnamese restaurant located at 567 W. Lake St. in Chicago, IL. The restaurant is open for lunch and late lunch 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; dinner 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and dinner and late-night service 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Sunday. For more information, contact Saigon Sisters at (312) 496-0090 or online at http://www.saigonsisters.com/.
New Year's Eve At Bella Bacinos
Bella Bacinos’ regular seating offers the New Year’s Eve Special Menu ala carte along side their regular menu until 7:30 p.m.
The special four-course menu will feature entrees such as the Hand-made Lobster Ravioli, Braised Halibut and Wood-Oven roasted New Zealand Lamb Shank among others.
For those looking for a more intimate New Year’s Eve, Bella Bacinos offers their catered dinner. Tailored for your needs, this package includes dinner to serve parties of 2 to twenty, party favors, bubbly and a CD from The Redhead Piano Bar. Call for pricing.
Bella Bacinos will close Christmas Eve at 5 p.m. and be closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
About Bella Bacinos
The restaurant is located at 36 S. La Grange Rd., Downtown La Grange, Ill. and is open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, and is closed Monday for private events. For private events, please call Dan Bacin (708) 352-8882. For more information, visit http://www.bacinos.com/.
Monday, December 13, 2010
New Year's Eve Four-Course Prix-Fixe Menu At Bistro One West
About Bistro One West
Bistro One West is a contemporary fresh American Restaurant located at 1 W. Illinois St. in St. Charles, Ill. The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The dining room bar is open from 11 a.m. to close. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, contact Bistro One West at (630) 444-0600 or visit http://www.bistro1west.com/. Follow Bistro One West on Twitter at @Bistro1West.
Ring In The New Year At Guanajuato
Guanajuato will be closed on Christmas Day.
About Guanajuato
Friday, December 10, 2010
Kelly Beyer and Christopher Auld of OSI Restaurant Partners Return from Operation Feeding Freedom VIII
About Outback Steakhouse
About Bonefish Grill
As the "Fresh Fish Experts," Bonefish Grill specializes in market-fresh fish and other wood-grilled specialties. Knowledgeable and attentive Bonefish Grill Anglers (our service staff) provide the best in what we like to call “chef’s coat service.” Our Anglers pride themselves on guiding our guests’ journey through our innovative, seasonal menu and specials, which feature only the highest-quality, freshest ingredients, including traditional and unique varieties of fish and seafood as well as numerous non-seafood items. We combine this with a big city bar that offers bar fresh cocktails and an affordable, interesting wine list.
Recently named “Best Seafood” and “Top Service” category winner in the 2010 Zagat Survey of National Chain Restaurants and “Best Seafood Restaurant in the Nation” by a leading consumer product guide, Bonefish Grill has locations across the country and prides itself on the local feel of each restaurant. For more information on Bonefish Grill, visit www.bonefishgrill.com, facebook.com/BonefishGrill or follow us on Twitter via @bonefishgrill.
About Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Nationally acclaimed Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers the best in steakhouse dining – Prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders—with a unique wine list known as the “Fleming’s 100™” that features 100 wines served by the glass. Fleming’s was launched in Newport Beach, California in 1998 by successful restaurant industry veterans Paul Fleming and Bill Allen. Today there are 64 restaurants nationwide. Fleming’s is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including Wine Spectator’s annual Awards of Excellence, and Wine Enthusiast’s annual Awards of Distinction. For more information about Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and the Fleming’s 100, please visit www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com.
About Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion® Cuisine
First introduced in Honolulu by James Beard award winner Chef Roy Yamaguchi, Roy’s has become well known throughout the world for its Hawaiian Fusion® Cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients, European sauces and bold Asian spices, with a focus on seafood. For more information, please visit www.roysrestaurant.com.
Chicago French Market Celebrates 1st Anniversary Dec. 17-18
Anniversary Festivities: Saturday, Dec. 18
Visit Santa Claus at the market from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and enjoy a special cake cutting and refreshments at 1:30 p.m. While there will be live entertainment 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., a special performance from the LaSalle Academy Carolers will be from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. A drawing will be held at 5 p.m. for two separate $300 gift certificate to L2O, a Michelin three-star restaurant. There is no purchase necessary to enter the drawing, and the winner does not need to be present.
About Chicago French Market
Chicago French Market is a European-inspired market offering an array of local produce, meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheese, wine, chocolates, pastas, artisan-made goods, specialty drinks, flowers, prepared meals and a seating area for customers. Chicago French Market’s diverse group of local vendors stay open year-round, six days per week, and is located within the new MetraMarket development at 131 N. Clinton St. (between Washington and Randolph Streets). For more information, visit www.chicagofrenchmarket.com.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Spend The Holiday Season With Restaurant Michael
A four-course Lobster menu for $59 per person (plus tax and gratuity) will be featured Friday, Dec. 10 at Restaurant Michael. The menu will consist of a lobster appetizer, lobster salad, lobster entrée and dessert. Restaurant Michael will be open during regular dining hours and will feature weekly jazz duo, vocalist Petra Van Nuis and guitarist Andy Brown. Reservations are required (847-441-3100).
A Candlelight Dinner at Restaurant Michael, Dec. 17
Enjoy A Candlelight Dinner on Friday, Dec. 17 at Restaurant Michael. Guests will be overtaken by a soft glow as Chef Michael Lachowicz goes from table to table carving Whole-roasted Tenderloin of Beef paired with truffle potato croquettes and classic Béarnaise sauce. Restaurant Michael will be open during regular dining hours during A Candlelight Dinner and feature live jazz duo, vocalist Petra Van Nuis and guitarist Andy Brown. Reservations are required (847-441-3100).
Christmas Eve at Restaurant Michael
Restaurant Michael hosts a Christmas Eve Three-Course Prix Fixe Menu Friday, Dec. 24 featuring the “greatest hits” of Restaurant Michael. Guests will choose from several options for each course for $49 per person (plus tax and gratuity) and half price for half portions for children under 10. This magical evening will feature live jazz duo, vocalist Petra Van Nuis and guitarist Andy Brown. Reservations will be taken from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. every 15 minutes.
New Year’s Eve at Restaurant Michael
Celebrate the New Year with Restaurant Michael’s Prix Fixe Menu Friday, Dec. 31. Reservations can be made from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 15 minute intervals. Different options will be available for guests who wish to celebrate before or after 8 p.m. All guests prior to 8 p.m. will enjoy a Four-Course Prix Fixe Menu including a plated hors d’oeuvre, hot appetizer, entrée and dessert with a glass of Tattinger Prestige Blanc Brut Champagne for $72 per person (plus tax and gratuity). All guests after 8 pm. will enjoy from a Five-Course Prix Fixe Menu to include a lobster course between the appetizer and entrée course, and party favors at midnight for $88 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Live music will be featured by jazz duo, vocalist Petra Van Nuis and guitarist Andy Brown beginning at 7 p.m. until midnight.
Celebrate the first day of the year 2011 at Restaurant Michael! Restaurant Michael favorites will be on hand Saturday, Jan. 1 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Enjoy the Prix Fixe Menu including three courses for $49 per person (plus tax and gratuity).
About Restaurant Michael
Restaurant Michael (64 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka, Ill.) serves classic haute cuisine in a contemporary presentation with French country flair. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday through Thursday 5:30 p.m. -10:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 5:30 p.m. -11:30 p.m.; and Sunday 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Call for seasonal hours. Complimentary parking is available. Major cards accepted. Be sure to “Like” Restaurant Michael on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RestaurantMichael and follow Michael on Twitter at @RestoMichael. Visit www.restaurantmichael.com for more information.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Join the River North Business Association for the "Holiday Soiree"
This event is open to the public and tickets, for $50 pp, include beverages, food stations, hors d’oeuvres and a dessert buffet provided by Jewell Events Catering and staffed by Prime Staffing. Guests will enjoy entertainment by professional ballroom dancers from Chicago Dance and music to dance to provided by a disc jockey from NBarin Music & Audio Productions.
Ticket holders can pull an ornament from the holiday tree to win a variety or prizes from River North Business Association members.
Additional information is available at www.rivernorthbusinessassociation.com.
Celebrate the holidays with Fleming’s
It’s that time of year, when the chill in the air and decorations on the houses say the holidays are here. Each year, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar creates a special holiday cocktail just for the occasion. This year, Fleming’s decided to create a contemporary whiskey cocktail; something as cozy as a hot toddy, but cool and sophisticated as a martini. With Maker’s Mark, Chambord and holiday juices of cranberry, citrus and pomegranate to add tartness, Fleming’s has created the Merry Maker’s, available now through December 31 for $10.95.
Join Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for New Year’s with Veuve Clicquot. In typical Fleming’s fashion, the restaurant is going over-the-top with a three-day New Year’s celebration: Thursday, Dec. 30; Friday, Dec. 31; and Saturday, Jan. 1.
Begin the evening with a glass of legendary Veuve Clicquot Champagne, $25. Then indulge yourself with a Fleming’s favorite, or enjoy a special New Year’s selection and selected wine pairing available New Year’s weekend only. Seating is limited for the three-night celebration at both Chicago area Fleming’s locations: 25 E. Ohio St., 312-329-9463; and 960 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, Ill. 847-793-0333.
The nationally acclaimed Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers the best steakhouse dining – prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders – with a unique wine list known as the “Fleming’s 100” that features 100 wines served by the glass. Fleming’s is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including Wine Enthusiast’s annual Awards of Distinction and Wine Spectator’s annual Awards of Excellence. Learn more at http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Westfield Old Orchard announces leap into cutting edge culinary arena with new open kitchens and natural market concept
The American public’s and retail shopping industry’s perception of food courts in shopping malls will change dramatically when Westfield Old Orchard’s forthcoming open kitchens and natural market food showplace launches next year. Skokie, Illinois based Westfield Old Orchard announced plans today to develop this world-first culinary-focused dining and “green” food shopping venue which replaces the former food court, which closed on September 1, 2010 to make way for the development of the new culinary venue, with an anticipated opening in summer 2011.
During the build-out period, the construction area will be surrounded by oversized graphics displaying colorful photo illustrations and renderings of the new concept, which is the brainchild of Richtree Market Restaurants Inc., a Canadian food service firm that has created innovative restaurant and marketplace concepts in a number of Canadian shopping malls. Westfield Old Orchard’s venue is envisioned as a contemporary approach to dining and food shopping that will feature a wide assortment of gourmet food stations plus a dynamic market offering organic, sustainable and natural artisan specialty foods, seasonal fresh produce and other grocery items to be enjoyed by all.
"We believe that, with its multiculturalism and well-known passion for food, Chicago is the perfect city to host our first U.S. location,” said Kevin McCormack, Director of Richtree’s Large Format Restaurants Concept. “The decision to choose Old Orchard was based on the mall’s positioning as a flagship shopping center in the Midwest, and part of a world leading property development group. Westfield's style of combining shopping with dining set the standards in the industry, and we believe we share a similar vision. With this trendsetting concept of fresh, on-stage cooking, and the fun approach to dining out, we're looking forward to welcoming our guests, and bringing the dine-in experience at the mall to a next level of innovation."
“Our new open kitchens and natural market experience will reflect the ever-growing sophistication and culinary awareness of our customers,” said Deborah Mattes, Senior General Manager of Westfield Old Orchard. “Today’s Old Orchard customers are enthusiastic explorers—and enjoyers—of creative food. They seek out fresh, healthy and delicious food items and specialty products representing a variety of tastes and culinary styles. Our new venue will offer a wonderful new dine-in experience and, for customers who want to shop for items to take home, the natural market will feature organic, sustainable and natural freshly prepared foods, meat, produce, seafood and specialty items they can easily pick up without having to leave the mall. It will be a convenient, one-stop adventure. We believe the venue will also be a powerful, magnetic destination for visitors and tourists.”
The open kitchens and natural market will be arranged as a casual yet sophisticated series of food stations or “kitchens,” where all-natural food is freshly prepared before customers’ eyes. The décor will be contemporary, and there will be common seating areas with both indoor and alfresco style dining. The spacious venue will cover 22,500 square feet.
As customers explore the various kitchens, they will be able to choose from a wide variety of food offerings such as seafood, pizza, fresh pasta (made on premises), fresh grill, French rotisserie, carving station, freshly smoked meats, bakery, omelets, cheese, fresh fruit juices and smoothies, sushi, oyster bar, Asian specialties, salads, desserts, pastries, gelato and coffee creations. The menus will change often (they will be presented on chalkboards), reflecting current seasonal ingredients. There will be vegetarian and gluten-free options as well.
The new concept will be a great place for the whole family. Children will be excited at the large number of delicious kid-friendly items, while their parents can rest assured that the food and grocery offerings will be fresh and healthy.
“Our new approach to dining and food shopping reflects the continued growth and vitality of Westfield Old Orchard,” said Mattes. “In spite of the ongoing recession, Old Orchard has continued to grow, adding several new and exciting retailers and offering a wider, more dynamic shopping experience. This is another step in our vision to ensure that Westfield Old Orchard continues to set the standard and to exceed the expectations of our customers, while drawing people from all parts of the Chicagoland area and beyond.”
Westfield Old Orchard is conveniently located in Skokie, Illinois, at the intersection of Skokie Boulevard and Old Orchard Road. The center is home to Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor and Macy’s, along with 140 specialty shops, restaurants and cinemas. The center abounds with fantastic choices including Anthropologie, Crate & Barrel, L.L. Bean, Tiffany & Co., Williams-Sonoma and Zara to name a few. Dining options include California Pizza Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory, Maggiano’s Little Italy, McCormick & Schmick’s, as well as fast casual options including Johnny Rocket’s, Potbelly Sandwich Works, Noodles & Company and more. For more information call (847) 673-6800 or visit http://www.westfield.com/oldorchard
Westfield Old Orchard is owned by the Westfield Group (ASX: WDC), an Australian-based company with interests in 119 shopping centers in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. In the U.S., the Group has a portfolio of 55 shopping centers that are home to more than 9,000 specialty stores and comprise approximately 63 million square feet of leasable space in California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio and Washington.
Holiday Gift Giving From Bella Bacinos
Making the perfect holiday and Valentine’s Day gift for someone special, Bella Bacinos (75 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago; 312-263-2350) accepts mail-orders for made-to-order stuffed half-baked pizzas, available for overnight shipping.
Bella Bacinos mail-orders include an array of options. Order a small (10” serving two to three) stuffed half-baked pizza for $45.99 or medium (12” serving three to four) for $55.99. Pizzas can also be made heart-shaped for a popular Valentine’s Day gift. Add a bottle of red or white, pizza-friendly wine with a pizza order as a special package for a grand total of $85. All prices include overnight shipping via Periship, a new division of FedEx that offers express shipping for the perishipable foods industry, and arrive between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. the next day. Not only has Bella Bacinos partnered up with Periship to deliver stuffed pizza to its destination fresh and fast, it is also the only operation in Chicago to ship pizza via Periship.
Unlike other local competitors, Bella Bacinos prepares their one-of-a-kind pizzas with 100% real Wisconsin cheese, making them America’s first heart healthy pizza. The American Heart Association took note by placing Bella Bacinos’ spinach pizza, a 30 year favorite, in the Eat Well Guide. Preservatives and MSG will never be found in Bella Bacinos’ pizza. Celebrities such as Josh Duhamel, Jaclyn Smith and Chicago Bears punter Brad Maynard can attest to Bella Bacinos’ exceptional fare as they are frequent dine-in and mail-order customers.
All orders are shipped from the Bella Bacinos Chicago location (75 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago; 312-263-2350), but may be picked up at any Bacino’s location. For more information or to view a menu, visit www.bacinos.com.