Chicago French Market Celebrate the Holidays with Jinglefest December 15

Santa Claus is making a special appearance at the Chicago French Market for Jinglefest 2012, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 15. This fun filled family event features an opportunity for kids to have their picture taken with Santa.

Alan Jania a children’s author, also will be reading from his book The True Tale of Dasher (available for purchase for $19.95). To end on a sweet note, there will be holiday cookie decorating for kids. This fun event is sponsored by the Chicago French Market vendor Vanille Patisserie.

Prairie Grass Cafe New Side Dish an Unlikely Favorite?

We’re quite certain that one of the reasons the Brussels Sprouts at Prairie Grass Cafe are outselling all other side dishes is that they are paired with bacon – a combination made in heaven. The delicious dish is described as Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Local Bacon and Parmesan Cheese ($7) is served with a yummy Basil Remoulade. It’s not only a customer favorite but one of chef/owners Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris. If you’re looking for a great holiday side, consider this winner from Prairie Grass Cafe, 601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, IL (847)205-4433.

Photo by Grant Kessler

Chicago French Market Vendor Buen Apetito Announces New Menu Items

Buen Apetito debuts new dishes to its authentic Mexican menu.  The family-owned taqueria prides itself on bringing customers traditional Mexican favorites with a modern flair.

The new menu items provide a greater selection for market diners. The Tilapia Plate ($9.75) is topped with lettuce, tomato and ranchero sauce and is served with a side of rice and beans. The Vegetarian Plate ($8.25) is filled with fresh produce including red and green peppers, zucchinis, portabella mushrooms, onions, rice and beans.

Buen Apetito also has introduced an assortment of Enchiladas including: Succulent Steak, Savory Chicken, Sautéed Salmon, Grilled Tilapia, Sizzling Shrimp, Vegetarian Delight, and Cheese, available for $2.50 to $2.95 each, accompanied with red sauce, cheese and sour cream. Or try the Enchiladas Supreme which adds lettuce, tomato and avocado for $3.25 to $3.70.

Fulton River District Association Tree Lighting at the Chicago French Market December 8

Join the Fulton River District Association Neighborhood Tree Lighting ceremony on the concourse of the Chicago French Market, 3:30 p.m. December 8. The Skinner Elementary School choir will be on hand to sing classic Christmas songs along with several honored guests who will light the tree. This event is sponsored by The Chicago French Market, LavAzza Espression, Fulton River District, The True Tale of Dasher and Ovie Bar and Grill.

Enjoy a Special Breakfast with Santa at Westfield Old Orchard, December 8

Kids visiting Westfield Old Orchard are in for a special treat this year. Maggiano's Little Italy will be hosting Breakfast with Santa, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. December 8. Santa will be jolly and ready to read a special holiday story and visit with the kids. Additional activities will include face painting and a performance by the Niles North High School Choir. Breakfast will be a delicious buffet of pastries, fruits, eggs, sausage and beverages at $14.95 a person. Reservations can be made with Maggiano's at (847) 933-9572.

Throughout the season other Westfield Old Orchard retailers will host similar Breakfast with Santa events. Macy's offers numerous breakfast with Santa events at 9 a.m. on December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23. The price is $17.95 for adults and $13.95 for children. Macy's reservations are accepted at (877) 556-2297.

Traditional Menorah Lighting Ceremony December 8

To celebrate the start of Hanukkah, Westfield Old Orchard will host a traditional lighting ceremony for patrons of the Jewish faith, 5:45 p.m. December 8. The 8 ft. menorah resembles other larger-than-life Magical Moments attractions displayed in the center's common area. The event will be facilitated by Beth Hillel of the Congregation Bnai Emunah. Enjoy the lively children's choir, hot beverages, sweet treats and a wonderful evening with family and friends.

Musical Guests and a Holiday Wine Tasting at the Chicago French Market

Thursday, December 6 & 20 - Rush Hour Music with Annalee Hooson

Annalee Hooson

4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Complimentary

Grab something to eat and drink and wind down your day with Annalee Hooson, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. December 6 and 20. She is a Chicago French Market favorite and will be performing many original pieces as well as popular easy listening cover songs. Hooson has been enchanting audiences with her jazz acoustic sounds since the age of 13. The Chicago French Market is proud to share her musical styling as a perfect way to wrap up the hectic day.

Steve Justman

Wednesday, December 12 - Lunch Hour Music with Steve Justman     

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Complimentary

 

Make your lunch more enjoyable with the Chicago French Market’s complimentary Lunch Hour Music. Folk musician Steve Justman joins the lunch hour crowd from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 12. He hails from the Chicago area and specializes in Americana music. Justman has performed in many of the best acoustic venues in the Chicagoland area and is excited to return to the market. 

Thursday, December 13 - Wine Tasting with Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine

4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Complimentary

Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine is an European inspired neighborhood cheese shop at the Chicago French Market. In addition to featuring fine artisan cheeses from America and around the world, they also offer small production wines, freshly baked breads and a full complement of related items such as honeys, jams and olive oils. Continuing its monthly wine tasting series, Pastoral will sample varietals ideal for holiday entertaining needs, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. December 13. Its broad wine selection also makes great holiday gifts.

Tis the Season to Celebrate Friendship & Giving Special Guests include Ed Swiderski III of TV’s Bachelorette Fame

Stimulus Social Club and StreetWise Magazine are hosting a benefit with special guest Ed Swiderski III of TV's Bachelorette fame tomorrow night (December 5) at City Winery Chicago.

The benefit begins 5:30 p.m. in the distinguished Concert Hall at 1200 W. Randolph. The cost is only $10 per person with proceeds benefit Streetwise.

Streetwise benefit hosts are Veronica Resa, Olivia Pantoja, Kayla Klobe, & Carly Leviton.

In 2012, Streetwise will have assisted more than 500 men and women in crisis. In executing its mission, Streetwise receives no government funding. The agency’s workforce development and social services are funded by private foundations and the generosity of individuals. The mission of Streetwise is to assist Chicago area men and women, who are facing homelessness, achieve personal stability by providing them with a combination of supportive social services and immediate access to gainful employment.  StreetWise Magazine is the oldest operating street newspaper in North America.

For more information, the public can visit the web: StreetWise.org or call 773-334-6600.

Healthy Holiday Gifts from Oh Olive at the Chicago French Market

Black Cherry Balsamic Brownies

Oh Olive, the olive oil authority at the Chicago French Market, is offering a variety of holiday bundles perfect for gift giving. The Butter Oil Popcorn Basket is a complete kit at $21.95. The natural, organic and vegan basket contains Oh Olive’s Butter Oil, popcorn and the shop’s gourmet seasoning blend. Whether shopping for family, friends, teachers or coworkers, this basket is the perfect healthy and delicious gift. Call ahead to reserve your basket and it will be ready to grab and go on your way home.

 The shop also is featuring its Black Cherry Balsamic for $17.95. When you pick up a bottle this holiday season, you will receive a complimentary recipe for Oh Olive’s signature Black Cherry Balsamic Brownies.

Tiesta Tea Holiday Special

Looking for a holiday spin on your favorite wines and juices? Oh Olive has created a blend of traditional mulling spices ($12.95) to dress up apple cider and cranberry juice for a tasty holiday drink. Also, pick up the Tiesta Tea Holiday Special at 3 for $21 containing the Oh Olive Blend, Minty Winter and Nutty Almond Crème ($3 savings).