MORE Introduces new Margarita Cupcake on WGN TV

Still trying to figure out what to serve your party guests this holiday season? MORE owner, Patty Rothman, was on WGN TV's "Lunchbreak" today with a special cupcake recipe that's sure to please. Rothman helped WGN reporter Dina Bair prepare MORE's new Margarita Cupcake and gave her tips on perfecting her frosting technique. On hand were several of MORE's other flavors, including their signature "MORE" cupcake, a moist chocolate cake with a housemade marshmallow filling (a guaranteed show-stopper).

Want to steal the show at your next party? Check out MORE's Margarita cupcake recipe here. MORE's cupcakes range from $3.50-$4.25 each, or $39.50-$49.50/dozen. MORE also offers flights of six MOREsels, including the new Cocktail Flight and Sunday Morning Flight, which make perfect hostess gifts. Call MORE at (312) 951-0001 to place your holiday order today!

TimeOut Chicago names Top 100 Best Things We Ate and Drank

We just love when TimeOut Chicago lists its "top 100 best things we ate and drank for the year.” Especially when a number of its selections have been represented by Kurman Communications! We aren't sure how dining editors Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin keep their svelte figures, having dined in 100s of restaurants to choose what they believe are the best of the lot here in Chicago. (Get TimeOut's complete list here.)

Congratulations to our friends well as to all others featured. We’ve dined at many of these restaurants and can vouch for Heather’s and David’s good taste. Here's what they had to say about our clients. Bon appétit during the Holiday Season and throughout 2009! For our friends visiting Chicago over the holidays, be sure to check out these places!

Tallulah, chef Troy Graves achieves greatness with similar flavors, but his kimchi gets served with a luscious, fist-size slab of pork, equal bites of tender meat and near-melting fat. The belly even invaded downtown dining this year, showing up at newcomer. - HS

Sticky toffee pudding at Aigre Doux Whoever said the Brits don’t know good food from a hole in their head has never eaten sticky toffee pudding. The British classic is executed with finesse at Aigre Doux, where Malika Ameen folds nibs of chopped dates into sponge cake, drizzles toffee sauce on top and serves the hunk of genius with a scoop of Devonshire cream sorbet and segments of Cara Cara orange. —HS

Uncommon breakfast melt at Uncommon Ground on Devon Uncommon Ground labels lots of things uncommon—it has an Uncommon salad, an Uncommon cassoulet…the list goes on. But its Uncommon breakfast melt is the only dish that’s truly out of the ordinary. And it’s not just because this decadent, messy combination of over-easy eggs, thick peppercorn bacon, cheddar and spinach on onion black bread is one of the best breakfast sandwiches in town, but because we’re inordinately inclined to brave the brunch lines to eat it. —DT

Fig Leaf cocktail at Eve If you’d told us last year we’d be drinking a saketini—and loving it—sometime in 2008, we would have bet you one time machine you were wrong. Times change. At the Gold Coast restaurant Eve, figs infuse vodka with savory-smoky, almost whiskeylike notes, which combine perfectly with sake for the Fig Leaf cocktail. Good thing we didn’t wager our time machine. —HS

BLT cupcake from More (the trick is to see the bacon-stuffed cake with ranch frosting as a snack, or even lunch, not dessert). - DT

MORE makes 2008 Favorite Lists

MORE's unique sweet and savory cupcakes have made a big impression this year, both with consumers and the media. Today, ABC 7's Hungry Hound, Steve Dolinsky included MORE's cupcakes as part of his "Favorite Sweets of 2008." On-hand for the segment were MORE's Coconut Mango and signature "MORE" cupcakes. After tasting the MORE, much like a Hostess cake, anchor Sylvia Perez said, "MORE, I understand the name, this is better than any Ho Ho I've ever had!" Watch the whole segment, here.

Plus, Time Out Chicago's lastest issue named MORE's well-known BLT Cupcake as part of its "100 Best Things We Ate This Year." Check out the entire list of Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin's favorites here.

Finally, Erich "Mancow" Muller raved about MORE's Margarita and BLT cupcakes on his WLS-AM radio this this morning. Word is, he's planning to bring them to his next party!

Want to see what all the buzz is about? Check out MORE at 1 E. Delaware Pl. in Chicago's Gold Coast. Call (312) 951-0001 to place your order.

Give MORE with MORE's new Cupcake Flavors

Chicago's chic cupcake boutique, MORE, (1 E. Delaware Pl., 312-951-0001) known for its creative sweet and savory cupcakes, has introduced several new flavors to “Give MORE” this holiday season. MORE's cupcakes are truly the ultimate gift: gorgeous, decadent and delicious. Treat that special someone to more with cupcakes in new holiday flavors like Chocolate Hazelnut, Gingerbread or White Chocolate Peppermint. Cupcakes range from $3.50 to $4.25/each, or $39.50 to $49.50/dozen.

Holiday party-goers should know that MORE’s cupcake flights make the perfect hostess gift or party favor. Everyone will buzz about the new Wine and Cheese Flight with flavors like Apple Gorgonzola; Champagne Brie; Camembert Sauternes; and Pear, Blue Cheese and Port (pictured). MORE also has a special Holiday Flight featuring cupcakes in familiar flavors like Gingerbread, Chocolate Mint, White Chocolate Peppermint and Red Velvet. Toast the New Year with cupcakes! MORE’s new Champagne Flight bubbles over with cupcake flavors like Bellini, Mimosa and Kir Royale.

MORE has also introduced a Cocktail Flight, perfect for those late night and weekend soirees. Try assorted cocktail flavored cupcakes including Margarita, Pina Colada, Mojito and Martini. Need a “pick-me-up” after a fun-filled weekend? MORE’s Sunday Morning Flight does just the trick with Bloody Mary cupcakes topped with an assorted variety of garnishes.

All flights include six of MORE’s signature MOREsel cupcakes, and range from $9.50 to $11.50 each. To make the perfect holiday party appetizer or dessert, MOREsels are also available by special pre-order in sets of 16 or 30. Please note orders require a minimum of 48-hours notice. To place an order for cupcakes, please contact MORE at (312) 951-0001.

**Want to learn more? Tune in to Erich "Mancow" Muller's radio show tomorrow on WLS 890 AM, Friday, December 12 at 10:30 a.m. CST to listen to MORE's owner, Patty Rothman, talk about her newest cupcake creations.**

Celebrate Thanksgiving with these Kurman Communications Clients

BIRCH RIVER GRILL - AN AMERICAN KITCHEN
75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, Ill.
(847) 427-4242
www.birchrivergrill.com

Birch River Grill - An American Kitchen celebrates Thanksgiving with its pre-fixe, offered November 27 from noon until 7 p.m. Enjoy Acorn Squash and Kentucky Bourbon Bisque; Autumn Salad, with mulled wine poached pear crumbled bleu cheese, toasted pecans and kiln dried cherry dressing; Maple Glazed Free Range Turkey Breast, with Granny Apple sausage cornbread stuffing, sage pan gravy, buttermilk mashed Yukon Gold potatoes, brown butter green beans and rustic cranberry-orange relish; and finally, Spiced Pumpkin Pie, served with cinnamon whipped cream. The meal is $24.95 per person, and $13.95 for children 12 and under.

Birch River Grill - An American Kitchen is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday; 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday; and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. The lounge stays open one hour later daily. All major credit cards are accepted. Complimentary parking is available. For reservations or more information, please contact Birch River Grill - An American Kitchen at (847) 427-4242 or visit them on the web at www.birchrivergrill.com.

DINE
733 W. Madison St, Chicago, Ill.
(312) 602- 2100
www.dinerestaurant.com

Chicago's chic, retro-themed Dine celebrates Thanksgiving with a special pre-fixe Thanksgiving menu, offered November 27 from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Enjoy Roasted Acorn Squash Soup, with brown butter and sage, or Fall Greens, with buckwheat honey roasted pears and cider vinaigrette for starters. For the main course, feast on Sage Rubbed Turkey Breast, with andouille sausage cornbread stuffing, roasted green beans and caramelized shallot gravy. Satisfy the sweet tooth with Pumpkin Cheesecake, with pecan crust and cinnamon ice cream. The meal is $28.95 per person; $16.95 for children under 12.

Dine is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Breakfast is served from 6 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Lunch and dinner are served from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The Martini Bar and Lounge is open until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight Friday and Saturday. Dining is available at the bar. Valet parking is complimentary. For more information or to make reservations, please contact Dine at (312) 602-2100 or visit www.dinerestaurant.com.

EVE
840 N. Wabash, Chicago, Ill.
(312) 266-3383
www.evechicago.com

The Gold Coast's latest addition to the culinary scene, Eve, celebrates Thanksgiving with four unique, regionally-inspired menus. For North, enjoy a Slow Roasted Suckling Pig; a salad of Fennel, Heirloom Apples and Arugula; Baby Spinach Salad with Shiso Vinaigrette; Herb Roasted Heritage Turkey; Sausage and Black Walnut Stuffing, Sage Gravy; and Pumpkin Chocolate Bread Pudding with spiced cream.

East's menu includes: Gorgonzola Broiled Oysters with applewood smoked bacon, pear and celery; Roasted Chestnut Bisque; Cranberry-Orange Sorbet; Grilled Breast of Heritage Turkey; Maine Lobster Croquettes, Brussels Sprouts, Pumpkin Puree; Cranberry Apple Crumble and Spearmint Ice Cream.

The vegetarian West menu includes Chantrelle Mushroom Streudel with Maytag bleu cheese and cranberry-apple chutney; Tofu Tempura Baby Tat Soi Salad with shiso orange vinaigrette; Walla Walla Onion and Butternut Squash Muillefeuille; Tuscan Kale with piquillo peppers and date beurre blanc; and Cranberry-Orange Crumble Spearmint.

The hearty South menu includes Turkey Crawfish Gumbo with pickled okra; Wilted Frisee and Fried Green Tomato Poached Egg with Virginia ham and cranberry vinaigrette; Grilled Quail; Smoked Cheddar Grits; and Chocolate Pecan Tart with bourbon Anglaise.

Eve's Thanksgiving menus are available November 27 from noon until 7 p.m. for $55 per person. Reservations are required. Eve is located at 840 N. Wabash in Chicago. Eve is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.; Saturday from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. For reservations and more information, call (312) 266-3383 or visit www.evechicago.com.

GLEN PRAIRIE-FINE FOOD & DRINK
1250 Roosevelt Rd., Glen Ellyn
(630) 629-6000

With the intent to promote environmentally sustainable practices, Glen Prairie - Fine Food & Drink, does just that with its pre-fixe Thanksgiving dinner. The five-course menu highlights the Midwest's bountiful culinary offerings, with one choice of appetizer, soup, salad, entrée, and dessert.

For an appetizer, try Crab Corn Pudding, Grilled Roasted Vegetable Polenta with portabella red wine ragout or Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread. For soup, try Pumpkin and Shrimp Bisque, or Heirloom Beet Soup served in roasted acorn squash. Salad selections include Cranberry Waldorf, with red and green apples, raisings, walnuts and cranberry vinaigrette, or Arugula Salad with oranges, pomegranate seeds, herbed goat cheese and citrus vinaigrette.

Entrée selections include Grilled Free Range Turkey Tenderloin topped with roasted dark meat served with cornbread stuffing, maple roasted acorn squash and cranberry-orange relish; Lamb Bolognese, with roasted cherry tomatoes, pappardelle pasta and fresh basil; Pumpkin Goulash, lentils, vegetable broth and brown rice or Macadamia Nut Crusted Wisconsin Trout, served with Minnesota wild rice, caramelized apples, sautéed green beans and Champagne saffron sauce.

Finally, choose from Brioche, Bing Cherry Bread Pudding, Pumpkin Cheesecake with caramel sauce, or Grandma's Chocolate Cake. Glen Prairie's Thanksgiving feast is $42 per person.

Glen Prairie is located at 1250 Roosevelt Rd. in Glen Ellyn, Ill. in Chicago's western suburbs. 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.

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

Karma-Asian Food & Wine has prepared a Thanksgiving feast with its pre-fixe Thanksgiving menu, offered November 27 from noon until 10 p.m. Served family style, the menu consists of: House Salad, Fresh Fruit Salad, Gingered Butternut Squash Soup, Slice Roast Turkey Breast with Gravy, Red Skin Mashed or Sweet Potato Mashed, Grilled Asparagus with roasted red peppers, Green Bean Casserole, Homemade Cranberry Relish and Dinner Rolls. For dessert, choose between Apple Pie a la Mode or Pumpkin Pie . The meal is $19.95 for adults, $11.95 for children four to twelve years old, and complimentary for children three and under.

Karma is open seven days a week 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m. for breakfast; 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. for lunch;
5 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday for dinner, and 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday for dinner. The lounge is open 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; and 5 p.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday. Karma is located adjacent to the Crowne Plaza Chicago North Shore at
510 East Route 83, Mundelein, IL 60060. For reservations or more information, call Karma at
(847) 970-6900 or visit www.karmachicago.com.

MORE
1 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago, Ill.
(312) 951-0001
www.morecupcakes.com

Looking for something more this holiday season? Chicago's new upscale cupcake boutique, MORE, known for its creative sweet and savory cupcakes, has introduced a variety of new, unique cupcake flavors that are sure to help make holiday celebrations so much more. MORE offers a rotating selection of daily flavors, including new flavors like Sweet Potato, Thanksgiving, Banana Spiced Rum and Cranberry. Cupcakes range from $3.50-$4.25/each, $39.50-$49.50/dozen.

Looking for party favors or that perfect hostess gift? MORE offers a variety of cupcake flights with six of its MOREsels, mini cupcakes, including a special Holiday Flight with flavors like Gingerbread, Chocolate Mint, Peppermint White Chocolate and their deliciously infamous Red Velvet. MORE also has a new Wine and Cheese Flight with flavors like Camembert Sauternes, Apple Gorgonzola, Champagne Brie and Pear, Blue Cheese and Port. MORE also offers flights with sweet or savory MOREsel flavors each day. All flights range from $9.50-$11.50/each.

To make the perfect holiday party appetizer or dessert, MOREsels are also available by special pre-order in sets of 16 or 30. Please note orders required a minimum of 48-hours notice. To place an order for cupcakes, please contact MORE at (312) 951-0001.

TALLULAH
4539 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, Ill.
(773) 942-7585
www.tallulahchicago.com

Visit the chic Tallulah in Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood for their special pre-fixe Thanksgiving menu. The four-course dinner includes Heritage Roasted Turkey with jalapeno-cheddar dauphinoise, Buttered Baby Turnips, Boar Bacon Gravy, and Seared Duck Breast with cranberry rillettes and tartine, Miners lettuce and orange vinaigrette. This Thanksgiving menu is offered on November 27 from noon until 6 p.m. and costs $45 per person. Reservations are required.

Tallulah is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. and open for brunch on Sunday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Tallulah is located at 4539 N. Lincoln Ave. in Chicago. For reservations and more information, call (773) 942-7585 or visit www.tallulahchicago.com.

The Hungry Hound Visits MORE

If you were out with friends or having a late dinner Friday night, you may not have seen MORE featured on Chicago's ABC 7's "Hungry Hound." Steve Dolinsky interviewed owner Patty Rothman (sporting her "Want MORE" t-shirt) about MORE's sweet and savory cupcakes. According to Rothman, the BLT cupcake seems to be the fan-favorite, and Dolinsky himself is a supporter of the Mango Coconut cupcake.

In case you missed MORE on the "Hungry Hound," you can watch the whole segment on ABC 7's Web site, here.

MORE offers a rotating menu of more than 50 flavors. Cupcakes range from $3.50-$4.25 each, plus flights of "MOREsels" (mini cupcakes) are available daily. Some of MORE's newest flavors were highlighted in the Chicago Tribune's "At Play" section last Thursday. Check the story out here. Although the Web version doesn't quite have the same effect without the larger-than-life size photo of the BLT cupcake that was published on the front page, the new flavors are sure to please!

MORE is located at 1 E. Delaware Place at Delaware and State. For more information, call MORE at (312) 951-0001.

Celebrate Sweetest Day with Kurman's Clients

If you can look past the obvious Hallmark creation of Sweetest Day, (hitting us upside the head this Saturday, October 18) and just appreciate it for what it is (an excuse to be taken out for a romantic dinner, and indulge in delicious sweets) then you’ve come upon the perfect post. We’ve highlighted the best of what’s out there for Sweeties on Sweetest Day:

Birch River Grill (75 W Algonquin Rd, Arlington Hts, IL; (847) 427-4242) (BRG) has the lovely look of an upscale wintry snow lodge. It makes you just want to park yourself on the plush seats and eat till your heart’s content. Order the Rock Shrimp Scampi Linguini ($16) and try not to relive Lady and the Tramp’s pasta scene with your loved one. Save room for the Aunt Aggie’s Carrot Cake for Two ($10) – BRG’s signature dessert. A 3-layer carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and candied walnuts served on its very own pedestal. Can you say: adorable?

Deerfields Bakery (3 locations: 813 N. Waukegan Rd, Deerfield; 201 N Buffalo Grove Rd, Buffalo Grove; 25 South Roselle Rd, Schaumburg) is a fantastic spot for all those Sweeties with Celiac Disease; Deerfields specializes in all things delicious, from chocolate croissants to cakes to deli salads but they have a special line for Gluten-Free goods, such as cookies, cakes and pastries. People with Celiac Disease deserve sweets too!

Dine (733 W Madison St Chicago, IL; 312-602-2111) in downtown Chicago, is a classic American eatery, with a decidedly glamorous style. Indulge in the Daily Selection Cold Water Oysters ($13), a time-honored aphrodisiac, served with Appropriate Garnish. Also on the menu is the Portobello Mushroom Ravioli ($15) in an Herb Broth, with Sweet Peas and Parmesan. Gracie's Red Velvet Cake, layered and large enough for two, is a gorgeous dessert; Cream Cheese Frosting, Pecan Praline, and Vanilla Scented Strawberries are all amazing on their own, but together, they are perfection.

Karma (510 E Il Route 83, Mundelein, IL; 847-970-6900), an upscale Pan-Asian restaurant, sporting a very modern and romantic flair features a Sticky Five Spice and Honey Glazed Spare Ribs appetizer ($9) served with Sweet Potato Matchsticks. This sweet and spicy starter, with layered textures and tastes, is sure to get the heart beating. The Chocolate Moelleux Cake ($8), accompanied by minted cream and red current coulis, is a satisfyingly sweet way to end the romantic evening.

MORE (1 E Delaware Pl, Chicago; 312-951-0001) is a chic boutique cupcakery that looks like a jewelry store, but instead of diamonds, this spot dishes out gems of cupcakes. The flavors are meals in themselves: Fig, Blue Cheese and Port; Valhrona Chocolate, Crème Brulee. If your Sweetie can be somewhat salty at times, bring home a Salted Caramel cupcake ($3.50), Moist vanilla cake surrounding an eruption of buttery salted caramel, blanketed by a silky caramel Italian meringue buttercream, garnished with black lava salt.

Tallulah (4539 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago; 773-942-7585), intimate and lovely, Tallulah is a fantastic date place. Order the Red Wine Braised Pot Roast ($19), served with Braised Leeks, Mashed Parsnip, and Chervil Jus and wait for the apple of your beloved’s cheeks to get all rosey from the red wine. A must for Sweetest Day dessert would be the Ancho Chile and Chocolate Mousse ($7) with Roasted Banana Bisque; it’s hard to beat spicy and sweet.

Celebrate National Pumpkin Day October 26

The leaves are changing colors, the temperature is starting to drop and we're finally starting to see the signs of fall. With fall comes a whole new season of holidays...Halloween and Thanksgiving of course, but October 26 marks National Pumpkin Day, and these local restaurants have come up with their own unique take on the seasonal favorite:

Birch River Grill (75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights; 847-427-4242) features a Pumpkin Cheesecake dessert with Caramel Sauce and Whipped Cream, dusted with Cinnamon ($6).

Dine (733 W. Madison St., Chicago; 312-602-2100) offers an Organic Beet Salad with Herbed Goat Cheese, Toasted Pumpkin Seed and Peppercress ($6), and a Pumpkin Cheesecake Tart, with Candied Pumpkin Seed Ice Cream and a Cinnamon Chocolate Sauce ($6).

The newly opened MORE cupcake boutique (1 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago; 312-951-0001) is offering two Pumpkin Spice cupcake variations: a Pumpkin Spice cupcake with a Saigon Cinnamon Cream Cheese frosting, garnished with Housemade Cinnamon Candy Chards, and a Pumpkin Spice cupcake with a Housemade Marshmallow filling, frosted with a Cinnamon Glaze and garnished with Pepita Brittle ($3.50/each).

Tallulah (4359 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago; 773-942-7585) offers a Pumpkin Seed Crusted Fluke with Sweet Potato Puree, Boar Bacon, Tuscan Kale and Honey-Verjus Emulsion ($25), and Grilled Prawns with Stuffed Baby Pumpkin Chanterelles, Brussels Sprouts and Cipollini Onions ($21).

Not had enough pumpkin? October 21 marks "National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day," so be sure to check out Birch River Grill and Dine's variations on the tasty dessert!

(Photo: Getty Images)

Getting MORE out of Fall: October Specials and Promotions at MORE

Just when Chicago thought the couture cupcakes at MORE (One E. Delaware St., Chicago; 312-951-0001) couldn’t get any better, owner Patty Rothman has whipped up some fun promotions to accompany her delicious one-of-a-kind treats. During the month of October, the customers of MORE not only have a chance to sample an array of autumn-themed cupcakes to celebrate the beginning of fall, but they are invited to participate in exciting events.


Score MORE, Win MORE, Want MORE
Chicago is witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime event with two hometown baseball teams in the Playoffs and MORE is in on the action. The day of or the day following a Cubs or Sox Playoff win, customers decked out in the winning Chicago team’s garb are invited to visit MORE (One E. Delaware St., Chicago, IL). And with a purchase of six cupcakes, the decked-out fan will receive a free “MORE” cupcake.* The “MORE” is a delectable and decadent chocolate cake cupcake, filled with oozing homemade marshmallow, and iced with a silky chocolate ganache, fast becoming a favorite flavor at this newly opened Gold Coast bakery.

While the teams score more and win more, the fans score MORE and win MORE, and will of course, want MORE. This promotion will run for the duration of the playoffs as long as a Chicago team stays in, which leaves the fans only one option: don your favorite team apparel, cheer on your team, watch them score and get thee to MORE!

* A customer wearing both Sox and Cub attire at the time of a six-cupcake purchase does not grant him or her two free cupcakes, just two times the opportunity to gloat.

Vote MORE
Starting now until the November 4 Presidential election, MORE will take a bipartisan view and feature both “Obama” and “McCain” cupcakes. Both cupcakes are a rich, cocoa-embodied red velvet cupcake, topped with the signature MORE cream cheese frosting, however the only difference between them lies in the simple star propped upon the pillows of frosting. A red star stands for the McCain-Palin ticket, while a blue star represents the Obama-Biden ticket.

With their Presidential Cupcakes, MORE encourages customers to “Vote Early and Vote MORE” as they will be tracking the sale of each Presidential cupcake and updating the results; a mouth-watering Gallup Poll indeed. MORE employees will also be donning the trademarked “Vote MORE” t-shirts which will be available for politically-minded customers to purchase and sport while snacking on their favored Party’s cupcake. If only the actual vote tasted this good.

Help MORE, Hope MORE
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month, and with one in eight women still being diagnosed with breast cancer, MORE hopes to use sweetness in the fight against cancer. The "Hope MORE" cupcake, a treat worthy of this cause, features a pink velvet cake base with luscious white frosting and pink white chocolate curls. A portion of the sales of the Pink cupcake will go directly to numerous local and national breast cancer charities. Enjoy a Pink cupcake and hope MORE for a cure.

Gold Coast's newest addition, MORE, tempts guests to indulge in cupcakes

Cupcake lovers have long awaited the opening of MORE, a specialty retail cupcake boutique and wholesaler, which opens its doors today at One East Delaware Place. MORE is the upscale creation of charming, energetic owner Patty Rothman, who has teamed up with culinary leaders, consultants Gale Gand and Henry Adaniya. Gand, winner of the James Beard Foundation Outstanding Pastry Chef award, designed some of the recipes for the unique, extra moist cupcakes, while Adaniya developed the business concept of MORE."We wanted to create a business that was upbeat and fun, and what could be more fun than cupcakes?" says Rothman. "Not only are they delicious, but they are also small enough to fit in one hand, so we can all indulge in cupcakes and not feel so guilty."

Rothman, a successful entrepreneur and business woman, credits her number one role, as mom, for the inspiration behind MORE. After years of making cupcakes for her five children, who range from ages five to 16, she began to see greater possibilities. With the support of her close friends in the culinary world, she made the decision to open the all-cupcake boutique.

MORE offers a rotating collection of more than 50 varieties of rich, flavorful cupcakes. The collection is noteworthy for its unique savory flavors in addition to its wide variety of sweet recipes and classic favorites. The cupcake menu changes often, and includes special holiday and seasonal flavors.

Offering an extensive list of both sweet and savory flavors, MORE aims to please a broad array of customers. Rothman and her team have worked to develop all elements of their cupcakes, so as to accommodate different palates. The cupcakes showcase a combination of bold and subtle flavors, with twists such as Ganache filled chocolate, Passionfruit Poppyseed, Pink Grapefruit, and Creme Brulée. Savory flavors include Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato; Fig, Blue Cheese and Port, and a Madras Curry cupcake, which is layered with mixed berry jam, slathered with goat cheese and yogurt frosting and then garnished with puffed wild rice. Traditional flavors such as chocolate, white, yellow, red velvet, carrot and lemon are also among the 50 varieties.

"There are two types of people: frosting people, and cake people," according to Rothman. "We’ve customized the frostings to complement each cake flavor, so that both types of people are satisfied."

Joining the stellar MORE team is Executive Pastry Chef Todd Maturatai, who creates unique cupcake combinations of his own. After graduating from Kendall College, Maturatai took an internship opportunity at the esteemed Trotter’s To Go. The young chef credits the eight months he spent there in shaping his skill in the culinary arts. Maturatai comes to MORE after a five month stint as Executive Pastry Chef at Powerhouse Restaurant and Bar. With a philosophy that cupcakes are more than what meets the eye, Maturatai is enthusiastic about tackling the more challenging savory combinations.

Todd Maturatai, Patty Rothman and Liz Adamski

"In regards to developing savory recipes, I’ve worked to put my thoughts into an entirely different perspective," says Maturatai. "My creative approach is to look at everyday items and apply them to the cupcakes I create."

Showcasing this creative way of baking, Maturatai found himself dining at fine restaurants, looking at diverse ingredients for inspiration. MORE’s Caramelized Onion cupcake, which features an olive oil buttermilk cake, topped with caramelized onion frosting and candied pine nuts, is evidence this practice works.

During the planning process, with so many wonderful cupcake creations in the works, Rothman’s focus turned to store’s location and design. MORE found a home in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, a perfect fit for the chic cupcake boutique. Rothman’s vision was to transform the retail space so as to evoke the essence of a cupcake.

The store was designed by 2008 AIA Chicago Firm of the Year, David Woodhouse Architects, LLC. It is a warm and comfortable feast of the senses. Customers are immediately greeted by a glass wall filled with suspended cupcakes. The ambience is inviting with rich textures and colors, and offers, in essence, material abstractions of the ingredients like butter cream and chocolate. The store’s unique backlighting illuminates the walls, to give the illusion of frosting throughout.

Rothman expects many customers to buy cupcakes by the dozen, with a good portion of MORE’s business coming from special orders for cupcakes at private events—weddings, birthdays, bar mitzvahs and so on. Special signature packaging is available for gift giving. As a wholesaler, MORE also supplies restaurants, hotels and corporate clients.It’s no secret that cupcakes are the nation’s hottest trend. With the huge success of Magnolia in New York and Sprinkles in Los Angeles, Rothman and her culinary team are confident MORE will have the same type of impact on Chicago.

"New York has Magnolia, but we’re bringing MORE to Chicago, in every sense of the word," states Maturatai. MORE, located at One East Delaware Place at the intersection of State Street and Delaware in Chicago, is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Sunday. For more information, contact MORE at (312) 951-0001 or send an e-mail to info@morecupcakes.com. Please visit http://www.morecupcakes.com/.

Chicago Dessert Examiner: The cupcake diet

By Stacy Warden - Chicago Dessert Examiner
Photo Courtesy of Jessica Tampas

Patty Rothman is on the cupcake diet. This means she eats the things for breakfast, lunch and dinner—sometimes she’ll even sneak a bite or two between meals.

It’s easy to eat cupcakes around the clock when armed with choices like the BLT, BBQ peach and mango sticky rice. These are just a few treats the pastry queen is doling out at her new cupcake shop, MORE, on State and Delaware.

Rothman is challenging folks to think outside of the box (or mix, if you will) with her list of savory cakes. The BLT, a house favorite, gets a dollop of ranch dressing frosting topped with thin tomato slices, arugula and tiny bits of bacon. BBQ peach is a nod to backyard cookouts with its fresh fruit and smoky finish, and the mango sticky rice—well, it’s just damn good.

It would be a shame, though, to dive into these lunchy selections without first treating yourself to a well-balanced breakfast cupcake of bacon, maple and brown sugar. And then there’s the sweet side of Rothman’s list, on which you’ll find over 25 toothsome treats. Choices range from classics like red velvet, carrot ginger and chocolate to MORE’s upscale version of the original Hostess cupcake with a homemade marshmallow filling.

For more info: Sweet cupcakes: $3.50 each, or $39.50 per dozenSavory cupcakes: $3.95 each, or $45 per dozenBacon cupcakes: $4.25 each, or $48 per dozen


Chicago Dessert Examiner: The cupcake diet

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Celebrate Labor Day with these Chicago Specials!

Deerfields Bakery
813 N. Waukegan Rd.Deerfield, Ill.
25 S. Roselle Rd.Schaumburg, Ill.
201 N. Buffalo Grove Rd.Buffalo Grove, Ill.

Special for the holiday weekend, Deerfields Bakery has dreamed up Gluten-free Yogurt Shortcake with balsamic strawberries and a dollop of caramel whipped cream ($7.95 for a package of six). This labor-saving treat contrasts tangy with sweet to create the ideal dessert for a Labor Day party. The Yogurt Shortcakes are available by special order only. Orders must be placed by Wednesday, August 27 and will be available for pick-up August 29-31 at any Deerfields Bakery location.

All locations are open Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. To order, call customer service at (874) 520-0068, Ext. 2, or stop by any Deerfields location. For more information, visit http://www.deerfieldsbakery.com/.


Karma Asian Food & Wine
510 E. Route 83Mundelein, Ill.
(847) 970-6900

Among its flavorful Pan-Asian standouts, Karma is featuring two entrée specials for the weekend of Labor Day (August 29- September 1). Try the Asian Pepper Short Ribs, glazed in a spiced tamari sauce with yaki soba noodles and fried Swiss chard ($23) or the Pacific Rim Halibut, stuffed with Thai chili spiced rock shrimp and scallops, paired with wok fried spring vegetables, forbidden rice and lobster tobikko sauce ($24).

Karma is open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling Karma at (847) 970-6900. For more information, visit http://www.karmachicago.com/.


MORE
1 E. Delaware Pl.
Chicago, Ill.
(312) 951-0001

MORE, Patricia Rothman’s boutique cupcake salon in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, officially opens September 12 but cupcake-craving Chicagoans can place special pre-orders of the Gale Gand-inspired cupcakes from MORE by phone on August 26, for pick-up starting August 31. MORE specializes in innovative cupcakes, offering more than 50 flavor varieties, including sweet flavors like Chocolate Mint, Pink Grapefruit, Passionfruit Poppyseed and Mocha, plus unique savory flavors like Fig, Blue Cheese and Port, Caramelized Onion and Strawberry, Black Peppercorn, Balsamic. Classic favorites like Chocolate, Vanilla and Red Velvet are also available.

As a pre-opening special, 16 flavors of MORE’s inventive cupcakes can be ordered in multiples of six savory or six sweet. Customers may also special order miniature cupcakes, “MOREsels,” in multiples of 16 and 30. MOREsels must be ordered at least 48 hours in advance. MORE is open everyday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. To place orders call MORE at (312) 951-0001. For more information, visit http://www.morecupcakes.com/.


Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant
800 E. Higgins Rd.
Elk Grove Village, Ill.
(847) 437-9555


Sweet Baby Ray’s knows its customers have worked hard all year and deserve a festive day off. On Monday, September 1, Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant invites everyone to fill their plates with all the trimmings of the Labor Day Barbecue Buffet ($15.99 per adult, $8.99 per child 12 and under) featuring their award-winning Slow Smoked Barbecue Ribs, Pulled Pork, Hickory Smoked Beef Brisket, Barbecue Chicken, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs and Bratwurst.

Labor Day salads include the new Michael Phelps Gold Yukon Potato Salad, Illinois Vine Ripened Tomato and Cucumber Salad, Chef Mike’s Tortellini Pasta Salad and Sweet Baby Ray’s Mixed Greens Salad. Tasty side dishes include Illinois Sweet Corn on the Cob, Baked Beans and Coleslaw and some crunchy snacks: peanuts, popcorn and Cracker Jacks. Finish off the meal with assorted desserts including sweet Watermelon, Cheesecake and Key Lime Pie. The Cubs game starts at 3 p.m. on the big screen and there are plenty of drink specials to go around, including Miller Lite Drafts ($2.25), Miller Lite Bottles ($2.50) and Jose Cuervo Margaritas ($5).

Sweet Baby Ray’s Introduces Brunch Buffet in September
Just in time for football season, Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant is opening its doors early for Sunday Brunch Buffet on the second Sunday of every month, starting September 14, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday brunch patrons are bound to enjoy a tailgating themed menu featuring hearty foods as well as a variety of salads, pastries and fruit. For those who love a filling breakfast, expect to be wowed with an omelet station, carved tequila-cilantro grilled flank steak and carved slow smoked beef brisket, as well as grilled cheddar bratwurst, smoked polish sausage, barbecue ribs, barbecue chicken, pulled pork, grilled pork chops with long pepper and yellow pepper relish, three-bean and three-meat chili and ditalini pasta in cheddar cheese sauce.

Salad lovers will enjoy the Southwestern shrimp and avocado salad, Caesar salad and a tossed salad. Make sure to save room for dessert, for there is a sumptuous spread including Super Bowl trifle, chocolate fudge brownies and grilled pound cake with cinnamon apples.

The brunch buffet is $19.99 for adults and $8.99 for children, ages 6-12. Subsequent brunch specials will be held one time per month October 12, November 9 and December 14. Reservations are highly recommended;

Monday Night Barbecue Buffet
Monday Night Football lovers will thoroughly enjoy the new All You Can Eat Barbecue Buffet, which kicks off at 5 p.m. every Monday. While the pigskin gets kicked around, enjoy Rib Tips, Pulled Pork, Jerk Chicken, Windy City Stir Fry with Italian sausage, pepper, onions and potatoes, Barbecue Beans, Coleslaw, Smoked Tomato Pasta, Tossed Salad and Cornbread. To keep the energy up, indulge in dessert with Sweet Baby Ray’s mouthwatering Bread Pudding. The buffet is available Mondays $9.99 for adults and $7.99 for children, 12 and under. Extra hungry guests may order a single 1/3 slab of Ribs for only $5.

Kids Eat Free on Tuesday
On Tuesday nights at Sweet Baby Ray’s in Elk Grove, kids ages 12 and under receive a complimentary children’s meal with the purchase of one regularly priced adult entrée. This offer is available each Tuesday after 5 p.m. This deal sounds just as good as the Sweet Baby Ray’s Cherry Rum-a-Nades ($5), a very-adult drink special, made with muddled Maraschino cherries, Lemonade, Black Cherry rum and a splash of Sprite. The Cherry Rum-a-Nade is offered as a Tuesday drink special throughout the month of September.

Wednesday Night All You Can Eat Ribs
The Sweet Baby Ray’s team is so proud of their first prize Best Ribs win at Naperville 2008 Ribfest that they can’t help but share the good fortune with their customers. Every Wednesday, the All You Can Eat Baby Back Ribs ($16.99 per person) packs the fans in, and the Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant Sangrias ($5) keep the customers thirsting for more.

Smoked Prime Rib Dinner Weekend Special
Every Friday and Saturday evening, Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant features a Smoked Prime Rib Dinner, complete with favorite side dishes ($18.99 per person).

Complimentary Appetizers at the Bar
The ever-generous Sweet Baby Ray’s knows what their customers like, and they like complimentary appetizers. Every Monday through Friday, from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., the Sweet Baby Ray’s bar is packed with fan favorites. Chili Cheddar Potato Skins and Chips and Salsa are featured on Mondays; Tuesday has Windy City Stir Fry with Italian sausage, peppers, onions and potatoes, as well as Corn blasters, deep-fried cornbread with dipping sauce; Wednesdays serve up Pulled Pork and Jerked Meatballs, while Thursdays offer Hot Wings and Barbecue Meatballs. Every Friday, customers can expect the bar to feature Pretzel Bites with honey mustard dipping sauce and Smokin’ Wings.

Cocktail Specials
Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Restaurant September cocktails are definitely a luscious must. All month long, customers can enjoy the Drink of the Month, an Absolut Peach and Cranberry cocktail available for $4 everyday. Monday night specials include Miller Drafts ($2.25), Miller Lite and High Life bottles ($2.50). Tuesday drink specials are Blue Moon drafts ($3) and Cherry Rum-A-Nade ($5) while Wednesday features Coors Light bottles ($2.50) and Sweet Baby Ray’s special Sangria ($5). Thursday evening, guests enjoy Bud and Bud Light bottles ($2.50) and Jose Cuervo Margaritas ($5).

About the Restaurant
Sweet Baby Ray’s 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/.

Be the first to taste MORE!

You've been craving more, and soon you'll get MORE! Owner Patty Rothman has launched the newest addition to the Gold Coast, upscale cupcake boutique, MORE (1 E. Delaware Place) that boasts a menu of more than 30 flavor varieties, including sweet and savory recipes created by pastry standout Gale Gand. The long awaited bakery will open its doors Friday, September 12.

But wait, there's more! Customers can pre-order cupcakes from MORE starting Tuesday, August 26 by calling the store at (312) 951-0001. Orders may be picked up at MORE beginning Sunday, August 31. Hours for orders are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. And yes, you can order MORE for Labor Day!

Flavors include sweet cupcakes like Passionfruit Poppyseed, Chocolate Mint and Root Beer Float, plus savory treats like Strawberry, Black Pepper, Balsamic; Caramelized Onion; and Fig, Blue Cheese and Port. MORE also has classic favorites like Carrot, Chocolate and Red Velvet. A complete menu of flavors and pricing information can be found at http://www.morecupcakes.com/ or by calling the store (312) 951-0001.

MORE's cupcakes can be ordered individually or in multiples of six. Plus, miniature cupcakes, called "Moresels," are available by special order only in multiples of 16 or 30. Moresels, however, must be ordered at least 48 hours in advance.

(Photo Credit: Tim Turner)
Root Beer Float Cupcake at MORE

Raise a glass August 19 and celebrate the creation of the root beer float!

August 19 is the anniversary of the creation of the root beer float. More than 100 years ago in a scenic mountain-filled town in Colorado, Frank J. Wisner created the “black cow,” which is known today as the root beer float. Join in and celebrate this momentous day in history by indulging in the classic treat. We’ve included some to stop and take notice of. With so many different versions, you'll have trouble choosing just one. Cheers!

BIRCH RIVER GRILL
75 W. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, IL.
(847) 427-4242
http://www.birchrivergrill.com/

Head over to Birch River Grill for one float that will have you wanting seconds. Order their Goose Island Root Beer Float, which is served with the namesake’s premium root beer and rich vanilla ice cream.

KARMA
510 E. Route 83, Mundelein, IL.
(847) 970-6900
http://www.karmachicago.com/

The terms, root beer float and evening cocktail, aren’t necessarily synonymous. Probably because an ice cream mustache, doesn’t really bode well for those meeting friends (or a date!) out for an after-work drink. Karma has created the solution with their Root Beer Fizz cocktail. Made with gin, lemon juice, sugar and premium root beer, this is one treat worth celebrating all night!

MORE
One East Delaware Place, Chicago, IL.
(312) 951-0001
http://www.morecupcakes.com/

Looking for a different way to enjoy your root beer float? Opening soon, MORE will showcase a Root Beer Float cupcake. Featuring a yellow cake base with root beer-flavored frosting, this little slice of heaven is complete with a root beer candy and straw garnish. Who knew you could enjoy a root beer float without the brain freeze!

SWEET BABY RAY’S
800 E. Higgins Rd., Elk Grove Village, IL.
(847) 437-9555
http://www.sbrbbq.com/

If you’re favorite part of a root beer float is that big scoop of vanilla ice cream, look no further then Sweet Baby Ray’s. The restaurant’s delicious Root Beer Float is made with Homer’s vanilla ice cream, which was rated one of the “Top Ten in the Country” by Bon Appetit, as well as “Best in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine. Topped with premium Weinhard’s Root Beer, this float is sure to top your list for years to come.

Karma drink photo: Cindy Kurman

MORE cupcake photo credit: Tim Turner

Top Chef Wedding Wars - Loaded with Kurman associates

I hope that you caught tonight's installment of Bravo's Top Chef - Wedding Wars. Did you recognize the bride? Former Kurman Communications account executive Corey Smith married the handsome and talented restaurateur JP Marchetti, from Galleria Marchetti. We first met Corey when she was dating JP, then a client of Kurman. Anxious to move to Chicago from Kansas, Kurman quickly nabbed her as a senior account manager. As their relationship bloomed, Corey decided to join the ranks of the
Marchetti organization to help build the business and start a new life with JP. Well, we all know how the storybook romance played out...in living color on Bravo!

Also featured tonight as the celebrity guest chef was none other than Kurman long time friend (and former client) Gale Gand of Tru and Cenitare restaurants in Chicago. The award winning pastry chef, Gand is currently consulting with Kurman client Patty Rothman in her cupcake boutique project, More, which will open mid-June at 1 East Delaware St. in Chicago.