Kids Will Not Be Left Out at Dine Restaurant this New Years Eve

 

Dine Restaurant lets the Kids celebrate this New Years Eve by offering a "Family Friendly" celebration that features a 3 course "Big Kids" menu along with a very tempting 3 course menu for Adults as well.

The "Big Kids" menu will be unique in that Chef Will Johnson has put just as much time and attention to detail in their menu as he has the Adults menu.  The unique and creative presentations will make the little ones feel like they are just as much a part of the celebration as their parents. 

"Big Kid" Appetizers will include "Ants on a Log", with raisins for "Ants" on a Celery log filled with Peanut Butter and Almond Butter; Ham & Cheese "Sushi" with Honey Ham and Local aged Cheddar rolled up in white bread to look like a Sushi
Roll. Entrees will include "Birds in a Nest" with "Little Chick" meatballs in a Spaghetti nest along with "Oceans of Cheese" with a Hot Dog "Octopus" in a sea setting of Cheddar Cheese Sauce.

Four choices will be available for each course so that each "Big Kid" can find something they will enjoy.  Additionally, for littler ones who may not be able to consume all three courses, an ala Carte option will be available.  A glass of Sparkling Grape Juice is included for the "Big Kids" so that they can toast the New Year with their parents.

Ham & Cheese "Sushi" 

In addition to the menu for Kids, there will be a "Countdown" and Balloon Drop at 7pm and 9pm so that all kids can enjoy the annual celebration of saying "Happy New Year" with their parents, regardless of their bed time.  Hats & Noise Makers will be available along with Face Painting and a Coloring contest to keep everyone entertained throughout the evening.

Adults will enjoy a fabulous three course meal with such selections as Tuna Carpaccio and Hand Made Mozzarella for Appetizers along with Entrees consisting of Roast Venison with Juniper berries, braised cabbage and honey braised apples; Red Drum with a scallion potato cake, braised leeks and a truffle vinaigrette and a traditional New Year’s Eve staple, Surf and Turf with Grilled Beef Tenderloin and Maine Lobster.  A glass of Sparkling wine will be included for the Adults.

Birds in a Nest

The "Big Kids" menu will be $20 (with ala Carte options for littler ones) and Adults will be $65.  Both prices do not include tax, gratuity or additional beverages.  Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant directly at 312-602-2100.

Dine Restaurant & Bar is located adjacent to the Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro at 733 W. Madison.  Complimentary Valet parking is available at the Hotel with validation in the restaurant.

 Hot Dog "Octopus" in a sea setting of Cheddar Cheese Sauce

   

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.

Celebrate National Doughnut Day June 1!

Who doesn't love doughnuts?  They can be added to the list of all-American favorites, next to baseball, barbeque and apple pie.  So on June 1, in honor of National Doughnut Day, celebrate big with a dozen doughnuts from Scott Harris' new artisan doughnut shop, Glazed and Infused!

Glazed and Infused offers up handcrafted doughnuts in 13 flavors; featuring delicious creations like Red velvet, Vanilla cake chocolate frosted, Luscious lemon, Old fashioned, Apple fritter, Vanilla bean glazed, Chocolate glazed, Raspberry glazed, Seasonal jelly filled, Maple bacon long john, PB & J, and Crème brûlée.  Each batch is made fresh on the hour and serves as the perfect option for your National Doughnut Day celebration. 

Take a batch to the office to share or grab a couple on the go; and don't forget the coffee!

Glazed and Infused in the Fulton River District is located at 813 W. Fulton Market, 312-226-5556, with hours from 6:30 a.m. to 2 pm Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m Saturday and Sunday.

The Wicker Park is location at Francesca's Forno at 1553 N Damen Avenue, 773-770-0184, with hours from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Monday-Friday; 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Two New Vendors open at Chicago French Market

Oh, Olive! is now open in the Chicago French Market. The new vendor sells various extra virgin olive oils, vinegars, teas, coffees and spices and is dedicated to educating clients about the delicious and healthy properties of everything it sells. After a lucrative career in education as a former teacher, principal and associate superintendent, owner Sandy Schuenemann quickly transitioned to business woman by opening her first location in Libertyville in 2010. She quickly expanded to Glenview in 2011 and now along with business partner and niece, Mary Koval, her new location at Chicago French Market is up and running.

Schuenemann has made this venture a family affair with her husband, Art and son and daughter-in-law Aaron and Alecia being heavily involved in the business. "We can offer the consumer the nutritional and chemistry information on our oils so that they can make their own educated decisions about what they purchase," Aaron Schuenemann adds, "as well as providing them with a product that will enhance the taste of anything they eat. You don't have to be a chef to use our products; it's really simple, and we teach you how."

Dedicated to educating clients about the healthy benefits of consuming fresh extra virgin olive oil and vinegars, Oh, Olive provides a unique experience in tasting and learning. The stores are staffed with olive oil experts and enthusiasts who are knowledgeable about the oils and vinegars, especially how to use them in everything from appetizers to desserts. All of their recipes are available online www.oo2go.com or in the stores.


Spicy Monkey Soup Company now open

Spicy Monkey will have its official opening this May at the Chicago French Market. Its selection of fresh soups will begin with an amazing, fresh, never frozen and delicious vegetarian stock which is then restyled into a daily variety of soups. All soups can be complemented with anything from chicken breast, bacon, pinto beans and Ditalini pasta.

Gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches will also be on the menu. All sandwiches will be hand-made to order with meats, cheeses and breads not containing preservatives, and fresh veggies. Featured sandwiches will include Asparagus with Swiss, and Provolone and Chihuahua with Blueberry Preserves.

For more information about Spicy Monkey Soup Co., call 312-454-2991.

About Chicago French MarketChicago 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).
Chicago French Market offers complimentary garage parking with entrances at 164 N. Canal St. and 165 N. Clinton St. for one hour or less with a minimum purchase of $20 or more (receipt required).

For more information, visit www.chicagofrenchmarket.com. "Like" Chicago French Market on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ChicagoFrenchMarket and follow the market on Twitter at @ChiFrenchMarket.

Halloween at the Chicago French Market

Over 200 children celebrated Halloween at the Chicago French Market Saturday, October 29

Today may be Halloween, but 100s of kids celebrated this past Saturday at the Chicago French Market. Teaming with the Fulton River District Parent Networking Group, more than 200 people gathered for to enjoy a family-fun-filled Saturday afternoon.

People came from near and far, many bringing aunts and grandparents, to enjoy pumpkin decorating with stick-on color-form faces for the younger guests and traditional carving for the older ones. 

James, Rebecca, Dan and Elizabeth Broderick (Lincoln Park)

Costumed children ranged from silly to scary – the most popular being princes, mermaids, dinosaurs, animals and even a number of law enforcement officers.

Families mingled, enjoyed cider and cookies and admired the array of creative and fun Halloween costumes. Concentra hosted a spinning game contest, distributed helium balloons and provided families with information about their services.

Following the pumpkin decorating, French Market vendors provided treats for families meandering throughout the market. 

Madelin Callahan (Lakeview) of Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine with Kate Wollin (Fulton River District)

Even without a holiday, the French Market is a treat, but the Pumpkin Party made the day an extra special one. All the families seemed to have a lovely time at Saturday’s event and agreed that it was a great way to start celebrating Halloween.

Carter Holland (West Loop) really enjoyed his treats from the French Market

Hi-resolution photos may be purchased here: Chicago French Market Halloween Photos

Presto Cafe and Grill is Open at Chicago French Market

SzudlerBrings Mediterranean Cuisine to Chicago

Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., 312-575-0306), located in the West Loop/Fulton River District, opened its newest vendor, Presto Café and Grill, the week of May 9. Adding to more than 25 vendors found at the market the new vendor brings Mediterranean cuisine to the Chicago French Market.Presto Café and Grill offers 10 percent off any meal after 4 p.m. and any large orders of 10 meals or more gets one meal free.

Chef Israel Szudler has knowledge of Mediterranean cuisine from his work at the Russian Wingiet Sports Institute and his catering business, Taste of Israel Catering. His Mediterranean cooking techniques can be found in menu items such as appetizers, entrees and pitas. Appetizers include Original Hummus— a blend of chickpeas and sesame paste mixed with spices and herbs topped with extra virgin olive oil, spread with homemade pita bread for $3.69, Roasted peppers salad — mix of peppers, fresh and dry province herbs, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, topped with crumbled feta cheese for $3.99, Capri Island salad — sliced vine-ripe tomatoes with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese garnished with fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil with a touch of balsamic glaze vinegar for $4.69, Mediterranean Cabbage salad — thin sliced cabbage and grated carrots with parsley, celery and secret dressing for $2.99, Original Baba Ghanoush salad — grilled eggplants mixed with light mayo, fresh garlic and lemon juice, served with homemade pita bread for $4.49 and Vegetarian Greek Dolma — grape leaves stuffed with rice, served with Labane sauce sprinkled with olive oil and herbs for $3.99.

Entrees include Chicken Shawarma — grilled and lightly seasoned thinly sliced chicken thighs with fried sweet Vidalia onions for $6.99, Chicken Kabob — a skewer of grilled tender chicken breast for $6.99, Beef Kifta Kabob — a skewer of angus ground beef and lamb with a touch of spices and herbs for $8.99, and Grilled Schnitzel — grilled, lightly marinated chicken breast, mozzarella cheese, with pesto sauce for $6.99.

More entrees include Vegetarian Kebab — a skewer of grilled and lightly marinated mix of peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, red onion and cherry tomatoes for $6.99, Beef Tenderloin Kebab — a skewer of finest beef tenderloin grilled and marinated in house secret sauce for $9.99, Moroccan Style Baked Tilapia fillet — fillet of tilapia baked with sliced vegetables with lemon sauce and herbs for $7.99, Falafel — a mixture of ground chickpeas with onions, herbs and spices made into patties lightly fried to golden perfection for $6.99. All entrees are served with Jasmine rice, fresh thinly sliced Jerusalem salad and your choice of Tahini sauce or house special tomato sauce.

Presto Café and Grill offers the Chicken Shawarma for $5.99, Chicken Kabob for $5.99, Beef Kifta Kabob for $7.99, Grilled Schnitzel for $5.99, Vegetarian Kebab for $5.99 and Beef Tenderloin Kebab for $8.99 in a pita. All pita entrees come with homemade freshly baked pita bread, a spread of hummus, fresh thinly sliced Jerusalem salad, and your choice of Tahini sauce or house special tomato sauce.

Chef Israel Szudler graduated with a master’s degree in the Culinary Arts and Economy from the Russian Culinary College in 1975. Szudler then worked four years as a chef in Russia at the Wingiet Sports Institute, before opening Taste of Israel Catering that he successfully ran for eight years. When he moved to Chicago he worked as a chef at the Russian restaurant called Kabak and then later worked as a store manager for Garden Fresh Markets. He will now be fulfilling his dream to open his own food concept of delicious, fresh and healthy Mediterranean cuisine at the Chicago French Market.

Holiday Offerings and December Specials at Chicago French Market

Children’s Holiday Cookie Decorating, Dec. 4
Bring your children and get in the holiday spirit with FREE cookie decorating at Chicago French Market this Saturday, Dec. 4, 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Stop by the market common area for some creativity, cookies and fun!


Wine Tasting at Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine
Join Pastoral 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 for a complimentary wine tasting of the Omrah Unoaked Chardonnay from Australia, the Hedges CMS Red Blend from Washington State and the Robert Sinskey POV Meritage from California.


This December Pastoral celebrates the “12 Days of Pastoral,” its way of giving back to customers and the community through random acts of kindness. On each day beginning Saturday, Dec. 11 through Friday, Dec. 24, one lucky, random Pastoral customer receives a gift from Pastoral. Contact Pastoral at Chicago French Market for details at (312) 454-2200.


Seafood and Meat Specials at City Fresh Market
City Fresh Market is offering a number of seafood and meat specials at Chicago French Market, now through Saturday, Dec. 11.

Seafood selections include Whole Rainbow Trout $3.99/lb., Tilapia Filet $3.99/lb., Smoked Salmon $9.99/lb. and Steelhead Salmon $7.99/lb. Meat specials include Hot Italian Sausage $2.49/lb., Panko Parmesan Breaded Chicken Breast $4.49/lb., Chimichurri Marinated Pork Tenderloin $7.99/lb. and All Natural Texas Rib-Eye Steak $11.99/lb. Call-in orders are welcome at (312) 575-0230.

December Specials and Kosher Items at Fumare Meats & Deli
Fumare Meats & Deli has a number of December specials including Smoked Pheasant $9.99/lb, Smoked Goose Breast $23.99/lb., Goose Liver Sausage $13.99/lb., Swedish Potato Sausage $6.89/lb. and Andouille Sausage $8.99/lb. Fumare is now taking orders for holiday get-togethers. Whether it’s a large client presentation, or simple gathering of family and friends, Fumare is the perfect solution.


Fumare recognized a need in the downtown Chicago area for kosher products. Last month, Fumare began offering pre-packaged kosher items including coffee cake, fresh breads, salmon and more. Be sure to call Fumare before your visit to see what the day’s kosher offerings are. Stop by or call Fumare Meats & Deli at Chicago French Market at (312) 930-4220.

Warm up with Free Mexican Coffee at Buen Apetito
Receive a free cup of imported Mexican coffee with a breakfast purchase at Buen Apetito Taqueria. Known for its fresh, top quality ingredients, Buen Apetito’s breakfast offerings include a Breakfast Burrito, chorizo and egg or veggie filled wrapped in option of flour, spinach, tomato basil, southwest chili, whole grain or wheat tortilla ($6.25); Scrambled Eggs with Spanish Potatoes and Tortillas ($5.25); Chorizo Tacos with scrambled eggs and spicy Mexican sausage ($6.25); Huevos Rancheros with eggs sunny-side up or over-easy with Mexican ranchero sauce ($5.50); and a Spanish Omelet with green pepper and tomato ($5.50).


Also try Buen Apetito’s authentic Mexican hot chocolate ($2). Contact Buen Apetito at Chicago French Market with questions at (312) 234-9600.


Holiday Fruit Baskets at Produce Express
Produce Express is accepting orders for custom-made and grab-and-go fruit baskets for the holidays. All baskets are $25, and orders can be placed at Produce Express.


Stop by Produce Express for one of their new, freshly-made salads featuring housemade vinaigrettes. The farm-fresh vendor is also now offering grab-and-go fruit salads. Contact Produce Express at Chicago French Market for details at (312) 454-4540.

Holiday Treats at Delightful Pastries
Delightful Pastries, specializing in authentic European pastries, offers a number of seasonal pies, cakes and goodies for holiday parties or hostess gifts. Selections include Pecan Pie ($24), Banana Cream Pie ($24), Italian Ricotta Cheesecake ($25), Chocolate Mousse Mississippi Mud Pie ($35), Cookie Tray ($30) and more. Savory treats include Potato Pie ($30), Vegetable Quiche ($42), Spinach Lamb Pie ($56) as well as a number of traditional Polish savory items.


Another promotion at Delightful Pastries includes a free Lemon-Cranberry bar with the purchase of three bars. (variety of flavors). Place holiday orders at Delightful Pastries’ Chicago French Market location at (312) 234-9644.


Free Cookies at Sweet Miss Giving’s
Pre-order holiday gifts from Sweet Miss Giving’s for pick up at Chicago French Market, and receive one free cookie of your choice. Offer valid for orders of $25 or more. Contact Sweet Miss Giving’s at (312) 575-0212.


Buche de Noel from Vanille Patisserie
Award-winning Vanille Patisserie offers traditional holiday Buche de Noel in mocha or red velvet flavors $40 each. A modern Buche de Noel (entremets style) with Chocolate Mousse, Vanilla Bean Cream and Chocolate Cake is also $40.The yule log treats serve 10-12 people each.


Also for the holidays, Vanille Patisserie offers Galette Des Rois, a crispy puff pastry filled with baked almond cream with a French trinket inside, and a golden paper crown $30. Serves 8-10 people. Other selections include 24-piece assorted Petit Four Box ($32), White Chocolate Peppermint Bar ($9/bag) and Vanilla Bean Sugar ($8 8 oz jar, $22 1 lb.). Contact Vanille Patisserie to place an order (312) 575-9963.

It’s Christmas. Don’t forget the Chocolate!
Delight your special someone this holiday season with a box of luscious, hand-made chocolates from Canady le Chocolatier. Christmas chocolate suggestions include Amerena Ganache, Crème’ de Tiramisu, Pistachio Truffles, Red Pepper Truffles, Mint Truffles and Cheesecake Truffles. Contact Canady Le Chocolatier at Chicago French Market to order in-person or at (312) 454-8700.

Happy Holidays from Gramp’s Gourmet Foods

Gramp’s Gourmet Foods, specializing in gourmet pickles, suggests Gramp’s Sour Dill Pickles and Gramp’s Pickled Beets this holiday season. Gramp’s Gourmet Foods will make specialized gift baskets, perfect for teachers, stocking stuffers or hostess gifts.

It is Gramp’s goal to create unique handcrafted foods that evoke memories of family, fun and simpler times. Contact Gramp’s Gourmet Foods at Chicago French Market for more information at www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/vendor/gramps_gourmet_foods.  

Holiday Hours at the Market
On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, Chicago French Market is open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The market is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.


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 http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/.

Kick off the fall season with upcoming events at Chicago French Market

Frietkoten’s Belgian Beer & Fries at T.G.I.Frite-Day
Every Friday in September, enjoy Frietkoten’s Belgian frites and beer for just $7. Enjoy live music at the market from noon until 2 p.m. and 4 until 6 p.m. every Friday in September.

Watch “Kings of Pastry” and Get a Complimentary Treat at Vanille Patisserie
Bring in any ticket stub from Kings of Pastry, playing at Gene Siskel Film Center from Oct. 1 – 7, and receive one Complimentary Éclair or Croissant with any purchase at Vanille Patisserie.

Tickets for the film can be purchased through TicketMaster. General admission is $10. Student admission is $7 with school ID.

Save the Date: The Good Food Project Apple Tasting Oct. 2
Save the date for an upcoming event at Chicago French Market that brings families and eating healthy together. Kick off apple season with The Good Food Project and Chicago French Market with an apple tasting for kids. In this workshop, children learn from a food critic how to taste food like a food critic. Each child also gets to choose a favorite apple to make a slinky, and the event includes coupons to shop vendors at Chicago French Market. The event happens Saturday, Oct. 2, with two opportunities for the tasting: 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. apple tasting and workshop; 11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m. make apple slinkies; and 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. second apple tasting and workshop. Arrive early for tickets; space is limited. Suggested donation is $5.

About Chicago French Market
Chicago French Market is a European-inspired market offering an array of local produce, meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheese and wine, chocolates, pastas, artisan-made goods, flowers and a seating area for customers. Chicago French Market’s 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 http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/.

Go 'Back to School' at Chicago French Market, Saturday, August 21

Chicago French Market has a party planned for students heading back to school, and the public is invited. Don't miss Chicago French Market’s Back To School Party, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, August 21. Chicago's first year-round, indoor market located at 131 N. Clinton St. in the West Loop/Fulton River District is the new hub for community activity.

"It only makes sense that we help celebrate the end of summer and the start of back-to-school season by offering specials and activities for families," says Sebastien Bensidoun, of the Bensidoun family, co-owners and operators of Chicago French Market. “The Market is community based, and an activity like the Back To School Party is just a sample of the type of events that we host to for this ever-growing neighborhood."

Children participating on August 21 will enjoy a balloon artist from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and coloring activities throughout the event. The first 170 children at the market will receive a school supply gift, while supplies last. Parents and children alike will also enjoy the many product specials from Chicago French Market’s nearly 30 individual vendors, including Abbey Brown Soap Artisan’s “Teacher’s Pet” special: any organic lip balm and specialty soap for $6. Gramp’s Gourmet Foods will sell its hot dogs for just $2 throughout the day, while supplies last. Pick up Les Fleurs’ special Back to School Bouquet, an assortment of fresh seasonal flowers with a whimsical nod towards the coming school year ($25), which comes with a coupon for $5 off the next purchase of $25 or more at Les Fleurs (valid through September 30, 2010.)

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.

Chicago French Market Announces August's T.G.I.Frite-Day

Kick off weekends in August on Friday afternoons at Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., 312-575-0306), with T.G.I.Frite-Day, happening every Friday throughout the month of August, beginning Friday, August 6.

Enjoy the sounds of musician Pat Spaeth's accordion from noon until 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. every Friday in August. Spaeth, the current pianist for Chicago's Joffrey Ballet, plays French-style pieces on the Ogilvie Transportation Center concourse directly outside Chicago French Market, as well as inside the market.

Indulge in a small order of Belgian fries with a draft beer from Frietkoten for just $7, offered all day every T.G.I.Frite-Day in August.

Don't miss this music and dining deal, a great opportunity to celebrate the final weekends of summer! For more information, visit www.chicagofrenchmarket.com.

Fasta Pasta Now Open at Chicago French Market; Frietkoten Now Serves Belgian Beers

Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., 312-575-0306), located in the West Loop/Fulton River District, opened its newest vendor July 6, Fasta Pasta, adding to nearly 30 individual vendors found at the market. The new vendor joins added options at Chicago French Market, including the addition of Belgian beer, now served at Belgian fry shack Frietkoten.

Fasta Pasta's Made to Order Fresh Pasta
Fasta Pasta, a new, European-inspired fast-casual booth, allows customers to choose their pasta and sauce from a daily variety. The meal is cooked to order and served fresh in a recyclable container in less than two minutes, perfect for eating right away, or taking back to the office or home.

Customers begin by choosing pasta, like Fusilli, Campanelli and Whole Wheat Penne; or choose a premium pasta, from a selection that includes Beef Tortellini, Mushroom Ravioli and Gnocchi. Sauce choices include Marinara and Alfredo; or for a low extra price, premium choices include Vodka, Sweet Red Pepper Basil or Bolognese. Complimentary topping choices include Parmesan and Fresh Basil. For protein lovers, premium additions to the pastas like Meatballs and Chicken are also available. Customers have already been returning to Fasta Pasta to try the many different combinations that enable them to create their "own" special pasta.

"We couldn't be more excited to bring our new concept, Fasta Pasta, to residents, commuters and Chicago-area folks," says Scott Suckow, president of Really Nice Restaurants, developers and operators of Fasta Pasta. " We look forward to serving fresh, fast and great-tasting pasta to Chicago French Market customers."

"Fasta Pasta adds to our already diverse group of food offerings at Chicago French Market," says Sebastien Bensidoun of the Bensidoun family, co-owners and operators of Chicago French Market. "Not only can our visitors find fresh produce and ingredients for home cooked meals from Chicago French Market, but customers can also enjoy a variety of made-to-order meals from our dozens of vendors."

Frietkoten Now Serves Belgian Beer

Frietkoten, the traditional Belgian fry shack at Chicago French Market, now serves Belgian beer Monday through Saturday to complement its traditional, hand-cut Belgian fries.

The seasonal, well-balanced selection features beers on tap: Avril Biere de Table and Debuisson Cuvee Des Trolls, Blond Ale. Beers are also served by the bottle and include Christoffel Blond, Blanche du Bruxelles, Witkap Pater Abbey Single Ale, De Koninck Belgian Pale Ale, Urthel Saisonniere and many more, including three organic brews.

Drafts are served in a 12-oz. glass and are best paired with Frietkoten's traditional Belgian fries, served with a choice of one of Frietkoten's 20 different sauces.

"We are happy to announce the launch of our beer sales at Frietkoten," says Frietkoten owner and Netherlands native Jeroen Hasenbos. "Our well-balanced beer menu has something to offer every palette, and will change regularly based on seasonal offerings and customer feedback."

Frietkoten brings Amsterdam's traditional "fry shack" experience to Chicago, with hand-cut Belgian fries served in a paper cone and distinguished by a crisp outside and soft potato inside.

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, flowers and a seating area for customers. Chicago French Market's nearly 30 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 http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/.

Olives 4 You Joins Chicago French Market

Craving Mediterranean flavors? Western Mediterranean-influenced food arrives at Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St.; 312-575-0306) at MetraMarket in Chicago’s West Loop from its newest vendor, Olives 4 You. This proud newcomer to the Chicago French Market offers more than two dozen varieties of marinated and stuffed olives, hummus, tapenades and other fresh made spreads.

Olives 4 You is a small family business that uses its distinctive southern French influences to enhance the shopping experience with their unique recipes. Owners Paula and Jean-Pierre Brocardi, along with their children Jean-Louis and Stephanie, work diligently at maintaining a traditional flair to create the purveyor’s assorted spreads, pita breads, olives, dressings, olive oils, and other ready-to-eat specialties.

Olives 4 You also sells their specialties at seasonal markets throughout the Chicago suburbs and opened its first permanent location last year in Wheaton, Ill.

“We’re excited about opening an Olives 4 You in the heart of Chicago at Chicago French Market,” said Jean-Pierre Brocardi. “We look forward to sharing our heritage and family recipes using our fine, fresh products with Mediterranean influences.”

Olives 4 You joins an already impressive lineup of 30 vendors in Chicago French Market, a European-inspired market offering an array of local produce, meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheese and wine, chocolates, pastas, artisan-made goods, flowers and a seating area for customers. Chicago French Market’s 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 http://www.chicagofrenchmarket.com/.

Wine Tasting at Chicago French Market and Other Upcoming Events

Spring is here, and Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago; 312-575-0306) in Chicago's Fulton River District offers exciting upcoming events to enjoy along with the warm weather.

Spanish Wine Tasting Thursday, April 15
Join Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. tonight, Thursday, April 15 for a complimentary pouring of Spanish wines: Beso de Vino (Syrah), El Hada (Verdejo-Viura) and Acustic (Garnache-Samso).

Tuesday Tastings at the Market
Join Chicago French Market at 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday in the public dining area for the Tuesday Tastings at the Market series.

Tuesday, April 20, Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine hosts Leslie Cooperband from Prairie Fruits Farm to give an inside look into how and why she started her farm, how she became involved with cheesemaking, where she sources her sheep milk and the importance of producer relationship. She’ll share samples of fresh chevre. After her presentation, join her at Pastoral’s booth for a tasting of her Ewe’s Bloom until 7 p.m.

Les Fleurs Offers a Gift for Administrative Professionals
Give a gift of flowers from Les Fleurs to show appreciation of work performed by administrative professionals during Administrative Professionals Week, April 19 – 24, and during Administrative Professionals Day, Wednesday, April 21. Highlight the importance of their role in the workplace and receive 10 percent off a floral purchase of $40 or more by calling (312) 463-1111 or e-mailing les.fleurs@yahoo.com. Visit Les Fleurs at Chicago French Market.

Enjoy a FREE COFFEE
with purchase of any tasty breakfast crepe from FliP Crepes! Now thru April 30, 2010. Only valid with coupon.