tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32566712939253139622024-03-13T11:32:39.754-05:00chicago foodie girlFood & adventure in the Windy City and beyond <br>
EST. 2012
chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.comBlogger250125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-15820871578524316352020-09-17T21:13:00.003-05:002020-10-11T19:33:05.891-05:00Chicago Eats: Epic Kitchens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKEeo8tHklJ7tGBGxgJNV1uo2U2nMmmb5ahIPZCA8gwTsgvTFjQwtuuKOhqNwGBe8RYtfWLFqp0gLIVueVfDvFixbbizJR5tpWpFh9G3xP7dH6GJi7CJ1aDuesBpWpXNsHRmMLLI0tsneJ/s1600/butterfry1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKEeo8tHklJ7tGBGxgJNV1uo2U2nMmmb5ahIPZCA8gwTsgvTFjQwtuuKOhqNwGBe8RYtfWLFqp0gLIVueVfDvFixbbizJR5tpWpFh9G3xP7dH6GJi7CJ1aDuesBpWpXNsHRmMLLI0tsneJ/s1600/butterfry1.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of the most interesting and enterprising trends in the dining scene to come out of this trying time is the explosion of ghost kitchens. While the concept isn't completely new, ghost kitchens have really found their place in Chicago over the last six months as stay-at-home orders and heavy dining restrictions pushed restaurants to get creative with how they handle delivery and takeout orders. In essence, ghost kitchens allow restaurants to operate in a shared space without direct customer interaction – there's no dining room, waitstaff, or cashiers. Rather, there's a contactless customer model in which restaurants focus on delivery and takeout only, typically through apps such as DoorDash and UberEats. Restaurants can save money by operating in a limited capacity, and customers benefit from the model as they can access food from a variety of restaurants in one order. <div><br /><div><div>In Chicago, we've seen various ghost kitchens enter the scene, including the super-popular <a href="https://epickitchens.com/order/" target="_blank">Epic Kitchens </a>(one of my personal favorites!). Epic Kitchens hosts several restaurants that are new to the Chicago scene, along with a few that had previously closed their standalone locations and left the city, but came back into the market with the opening of the ghost kitchen. As of now, Epic Kitchens is home to eight unique restaurants, including <a href="https://www.ubereats.com/chicago/food-delivery/freshbeets/Gkg3wm8eSvOrra5yzjhsUw?pl=JTdCJTIyYWRkcmVzcyUyMiUzQSUyMjYzNTAlMjBOJTIwV2F5bmUlMjBBdmUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2UlMjIlM0ElMjI4Y2I4Y2RiMi05ZmU0LTJkODEtODk0Yy1lYmM0MDEzNjBiZWUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2VUeXBlJTIyJTNBJTIydWJlcl9wbGFjZXMlMjIlMkMlMjJsYXRpdHVkZSUyMiUzQTQxLjk5Nzg5JTJDJTIybG9uZ2l0dWRlJTIyJTNBLTg3LjY2NDE5MzMlN0Q%3D" target="_blank">FreshBeets</a>, <a href="https://www.ubereats.com/chicago/food-delivery/pokeworks/RXSusTNSTyupAoWM6uMX7Q?pl=JTdCJTIyYWRkcmVzcyUyMiUzQSUyMjYzNTAlMjBOJTIwV2F5bmUlMjBBdmUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2UlMjIlM0ElMjI4Y2I4Y2RiMi05ZmU0LTJkODEtODk0Yy1lYmM0MDEzNjBiZWUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2VUeXBlJTIyJTNBJTIydWJlcl9wbGFjZXMlMjIlMkMlMjJsYXRpdHVkZSUyMiUzQTQxLjk5Nzg5JTJDJTIybG9uZ2l0dWRlJTIyJTNBLTg3LjY2NDE5MzMlN0Q%3D" target="_blank">Pokeworks</a>, <a href="https://www.ubereats.com/chicago/food-delivery/butterfry-kitchen/Vcsi6_NAQOqmH1Isyd52fw?pl=JTdCJTIyYWRkcmVzcyUyMiUzQSUyMjYzNTAlMjBOJTIwV2F5bmUlMjBBdmUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2UlMjIlM0ElMjI4Y2I4Y2RiMi05ZmU0LTJkODEtODk0Yy1lYmM0MDEzNjBiZWUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2VUeXBlJTIyJTNBJTIydWJlcl9wbGFjZXMlMjIlMkMlMjJsYXRpdHVkZSUyMiUzQTQxLjk5Nzg5JTJDJTIybG9uZ2l0dWRlJTIyJTNBLTg3LjY2NDE5MzMlN0Q%3D" target="_blank">Butterfry Kitchen</a>, and <a href="https://www.doordash.com/store/800-degrees-woodfired-kitchen-chicago-981203/1447624/en-US" target="_blank">800 Degrees</a>.</div><div><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Q-TRL9MFbxmzUu6EVATNuDVKg56SHCnV_l3WeLVFY6XQdw2EsKFhyphenhyphen7gttlEbEeE1RpezMLrmFsx3AXk1OrGbdBvM5ZWV18zNCqpcnypL2uhjyaWl7etCGokAJB6bGQNu5M8NG2mKPpKH/s1600/freshbeets1.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Q-TRL9MFbxmzUu6EVATNuDVKg56SHCnV_l3WeLVFY6XQdw2EsKFhyphenhyphen7gttlEbEeE1RpezMLrmFsx3AXk1OrGbdBvM5ZWV18zNCqpcnypL2uhjyaWl7etCGokAJB6bGQNu5M8NG2mKPpKH/s1600/freshbeets1.jpg" /></a></div><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1vYTvmdf9kRlnjZvuEDXEeadjhSltLWPk7B7DEHrJm-jetbB9Ddl0jmS8zfJsyU6UxjO34n51fA8EcCq2M94IYHzGykYXIep6Vz4hsgb51A0Gktun8dqoGvoTG9l_XIIlbm5EufSEVyz/s1600/freshbeets.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1vYTvmdf9kRlnjZvuEDXEeadjhSltLWPk7B7DEHrJm-jetbB9Ddl0jmS8zfJsyU6UxjO34n51fA8EcCq2M94IYHzGykYXIep6Vz4hsgb51A0Gktun8dqoGvoTG9l_XIIlbm5EufSEVyz/s1600/freshbeets.jpg" /></a></div><b><a href="https://www.ubereats.com/chicago/food-delivery/freshbeets/Gkg3wm8eSvOrra5yzjhsUw?pl=JTdCJTIyYWRkcmVzcyUyMiUzQSUyMjYzNTAlMjBOJTIwV2F5bmUlMjBBdmUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2UlMjIlM0ElMjI4Y2I4Y2RiMi05ZmU0LTJkODEtODk0Yy1lYmM0MDEzNjBiZWUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2VUeXBlJTIyJTNBJTIydWJlcl9wbGFjZXMlMjIlMkMlMjJsYXRpdHVkZSUyMiUzQTQxLjk5Nzg5JTJDJTIybG9uZ2l0dWRlJTIyJTNBLTg3LjY2NDE5MzMlN0Q%3D" target="_blank">Freshbeets</a></b> offers a variety of healthy bowls and salads, including Mario's favorite, the <b>Forbidden Curry Bowl </b>(Forbidden black and brown rice medley, caramelized shallots, roasted broccoli, roasted yam, Thai basil, yellow curry, and roasted chicken) and my favorite, the <b>Korean Noodle Bowl</b> (sweet potato noodles, roasted broccoli, pickled carrots, and grilled North Atlantic salmon).<div><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZichLrTYZuLtJ5sYNAY5_hEOGiYkApAY8MsdemTTkyXfR_VCw-o4MN2AUHuyGjlUtdoeS8Pa9k9eRvsE-OK-mO8oABRjPiCaCJSOfA7eWqpMWZJ_8bci0e0_Aw1uqQT1ZcbP5vehBPCg/s1600/pokeworks1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1089" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZichLrTYZuLtJ5sYNAY5_hEOGiYkApAY8MsdemTTkyXfR_VCw-o4MN2AUHuyGjlUtdoeS8Pa9k9eRvsE-OK-mO8oABRjPiCaCJSOfA7eWqpMWZJ_8bci0e0_Aw1uqQT1ZcbP5vehBPCg/s1600/pokeworks1.jpg" /></a></div><b><a href="https://www.ubereats.com/chicago/food-delivery/pokeworks/RXSusTNSTyupAoWM6uMX7Q?pl=JTdCJTIyYWRkcmVzcyUyMiUzQSUyMjYzNTAlMjBOJTIwV2F5bmUlMjBBdmUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2UlMjIlM0ElMjI4Y2I4Y2RiMi05ZmU0LTJkODEtODk0Yy1lYmM0MDEzNjBiZWUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2VUeXBlJTIyJTNBJTIydWJlcl9wbGFjZXMlMjIlMkMlMjJsYXRpdHVkZSUyMiUzQTQxLjk5Nzg5JTJDJTIybG9uZ2l0dWRlJTIyJTNBLTg3LjY2NDE5MzMlN0Q%3D" target="_blank">Pokeworks</a></b> offers a variety of high-quality Hawaiian-inspired poke bowls, including numerous signature bowls, as well as build-your-own options. My current favorites are the <b>Spicy Ahi Bowl</b> (Ahi tuna, cucumber, sweet onion, edamame, sriracha aioli, masago, green onion, sesame seeds, onion crisps, and shredded nori) and the <b>Yuzu Ponzu Salmon Bowl</b> (Atlantic salmon, cucumber, sweet onion, pineapple, cilantro, ponzu fresh sauce, seaweed salad, green onion, sesame seeds, and onion crisps).</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOivUaDqXbqSbGTFZBHH_AZVbsAXm5T3FpJXYahrVZuVz2KNxZPzuurfRivV1FUMS7ARbPxUw5TyU-DUPFup0uA7TIPOsIy13J9G_4pKOLdrUCtzOYlZDc2k2FRHupOc_ho8gxZjZw1Q4W/s1600/butterfry.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1077" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOivUaDqXbqSbGTFZBHH_AZVbsAXm5T3FpJXYahrVZuVz2KNxZPzuurfRivV1FUMS7ARbPxUw5TyU-DUPFup0uA7TIPOsIy13J9G_4pKOLdrUCtzOYlZDc2k2FRHupOc_ho8gxZjZw1Q4W/s1600/butterfry.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.ubereats.com/chicago/food-delivery/butterfry-kitchen/Vcsi6_NAQOqmH1Isyd52fw?pl=JTdCJTIyYWRkcmVzcyUyMiUzQSUyMjYzNTAlMjBOJTIwV2F5bmUlMjBBdmUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2UlMjIlM0ElMjI4Y2I4Y2RiMi05ZmU0LTJkODEtODk0Yy1lYmM0MDEzNjBiZWUlMjIlMkMlMjJyZWZlcmVuY2VUeXBlJTIyJTNBJTIydWJlcl9wbGFjZXMlMjIlMkMlMjJsYXRpdHVkZSUyMiUzQTQxLjk5Nzg5JTJDJTIybG9uZ2l0dWRlJTIyJTNBLTg3LjY2NDE5MzMlN0Q%3D" target="_blank">Butterfry Kitchen</a> offers American classics with an international spin, including the super-popular <b>Hot & Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich</b> (jalapeño bacon jam, comeback sauce, slaw, and pickles) and the <b>Kale Caesar Salad</b> (shredded lacinato kale, baby romaine, Caesar dressing, honey crisp apple, house croutons, and Parmigiano Reggiano).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://www.doordash.com/store/800-degrees-woodfired-kitchen-chicago-981203/1447624/en-US" target="_blank">800 Degrees</a></b> offers a diverse menu of signature fire-roasted pizzas, salads, bowls, and sandwiches, including the <b>Verde Pizza </b>(pine nut-basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and aged Parmigiano) and the Chicago-inspired <b>Sausage & Peppers Pizza</b> (Peppadew peppers, Molinari sausage, and caramelized onions). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can try all of this deliciousness and more via <b><a href="https://epickitchens.com/order/" target="_blank">Epic Kitchens</a> (click individual links to order).</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>ETA: Freshbeets has closed.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i style="font-size: x-small;"><br />Disclosure: I received compensation to facilitate this post. Review and all opinions are my own.</i></div>
</div></div></div>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-25331729844380706822020-09-15T13:34:00.000-05:002020-09-15T17:22:57.981-05:00Chicago Eats: Herb<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAORgIA7zpXl5y7yDN6da_teNfAOdU0oI_bIQ63KCWEJUhno9rK5HVsRky-xi5s4-4Sja2dynTRDQ8g712o7PR36_LLPGEUwbSPihX17DgYoMWGapsnt8HdCBQW2NaEu8Gp0ZAET_FcMi/s1600/herb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAORgIA7zpXl5y7yDN6da_teNfAOdU0oI_bIQ63KCWEJUhno9rK5HVsRky-xi5s4-4Sja2dynTRDQ8g712o7PR36_LLPGEUwbSPihX17DgYoMWGapsnt8HdCBQW2NaEu8Gp0ZAET_FcMi/s1600/herb1.jpg" /></a>In the sea of Thai restaurants on the Far North Side of Chicago, there's a small BYOB spot in Edgewater that has been making a massive splash in the culinary scene since 2014. Under the leadership of Chef/owner Patty Neumson, <a href="https://www.herbrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Herb</a> offers diners an opportunity to dive into the nutritious side of Thai cuisine through seasonally-driven dishes and preparations not commonly found at other Thai restaurants. Growing up in Southern Thailand, Chef Patty developed a love for quality ingredients through cooking side-by-side with her mother and grandmother from a young age. Her love for food and her passion for nutrition eventually led her to open Herb, where she focuses on healthy Thai food that doesn't sacrifice flavor.<br />
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Along with its focus on fresh, nutritious offerings, Herb also stands apart from other Thai restaurants in the area thanks to its prix fixe menu. Typically, the restaurant offers the option of a three or five-course meal, and diners choose from a shortlist of three starters, two soups, and five entrées (there's also an option for additional dishes à la carte). Everything is light, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared and plated. While Herb is currently closed for dining in, a select number of offerings are still available via takeout and delivery.<br />
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<b>Betel Leaves</b> with coconut flakes, diced ginger, shallot, peanut, bird's eye chili, lime, and sweet palm sugar sauce. These bites may not look like much, but as with many of the best Thai dishes, each wrap is filled with the perfect blend of flavors: tartness from the limes, saltiness from the peanuts, sweetness from the coconut and the sauce, and heat from the ginger and chilis. Each bite is so bright and refreshing <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">– </span>the perfect way to start a meal!<br />
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<b>Crispy Frizzy Prawn:</b> crispy rice paper noodle-wrapped prawns with a sweet and sour mango sauce. While this is a popular dish commonly found at Thai restaurants, Herb's preparation is one of my favorites, as each bite is light, crispy, and super flavorful. I've had numerous versions that were either too loaded down with noodles (making it difficult to taste the prawns) or overly oily/slightly soggy. These are really nicely done, and the sauce is super addictive!<br />
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<b>Grilled Pork Tenderloin:</b> Thai BBQ style pork tenderloin topped with Thai herbs and veggies. Quite honestly, this is not a dish I would typically order (I tend to gravitate more toward seafood and chicken entrées), but I'm so glad I did, as it's one of the most interesting and delicious pork dishes I've ever had! The pork is super tender, juicy, and layered with so many complex flavors <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">–</span> it's really a dish in which Chef Patty's extensive knowledge of herbs and microgreens shines.<br />
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<b>Sweet Sticky Rice with Fresh Mango.</b> As I've mentioned in the past, this is one of my all-time favorite desserts, and Herb's version does not disappoint! Sticky rice + good quality coconut milk + perfectly ripe mangoes = pure Thai dessert magic.<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <a href="https://www.herbrestaurant.com/" target="_blank"><b>Herb</b></a><b>: 5424 N Broadway, Chicago, IL.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><i>Herb is is a Thai SELECT Certified restaurant. Thai SELECT is a certification program funded by the Ministry of Commerce of Thailand. For restaurants to bear a Thai SELECT certificate, their menus must be comprised of at least 60 percent of dishes considered to be authentic: the restaurants employ the same or similar cooking methods as in Thailand and may import ingredients from Thailand as well. Currently, 542 restaurants in the U.S. are certified with this distinction. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.thaiselectusa.info/">Thai SELECT</a>.</i><br />
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<i style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received compensation to facilitate this post. Review and all opinions are my own.</i>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-15748537807618067242020-09-09T08:42:00.002-05:002020-09-13T12:22:47.731-05:00Chicago Eats: JJ Thai Street Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Located along a bustling stretch of Chicago Ave. in West Town (one of my favorite foodie areas in the city!), <a href="http://www.jjthaistreetfood.com/" target="_blank">JJ Thai Street Food</a> is a small BYOB restaurant specializing in food found in Thailand’s streets and markets. Unlike numerous other Thai restaurants in Chicago that serve a hybrid of Thai and Chinese cuisines in order to appeal to a wider American audience, JJ's focuses on offering traditional and authentic Thai recipes under the leadership of Chef and owner Jiranya Thosatheppitak.<br />
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Back when I was on my mission to find my go-to neighborhood Thai spot, I turned to my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chicagofoodiegirl/" target="_blank">IG peeps</a> to gather all the recommendations. Hands down, JJ Thai Street Food came back as the number place to try. While it's not in my neighborhood, so many people raved about it (with so much passion!) that I made a point to add it to my must-try list. Thank goodness I did because one trip was all it took to keep me traveling halfway across the city for their fantastic food again, and again!<br />
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<b>Peek Gai Tod:</b> fried marinated chicken wings served with house spicy sauce. This is one of Mario's (aka my other half) go-to orders and one of his favorite versions of Thai chicken wings! Unlike many Thai dishes, these wings don't have a high heat level, but they do pack an intense flavor punch. They're light and crispy with a bit of sweet, salty, and umami in every bite – you might even end up skipping the sauce, as they already have such a great amount of flavor.<br />
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<b>Pla Muk Yang:</b> grilled squid served with Thai spicy seafood sauce. Speaking of go-to dishes, JJ's version of grilled squid is one of my all-time favorites! The squid is lightly charred and smokey and has the perfect texture (soft, tender, and not overly chewy). The sauce is zingy and salty with a nice amount of heat from the red chili and herbs. It's a perfect dish for those who love grilled squid and newbies you're looking to convert!<br />
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<b>Look Shin Gai Ping:</b> homemade grilled chicken meatballs on skewers served with sweet tamarind sauce. Widely known as Chef Jina's favorite menu item and the perpetual crowd favorite at our local Thai food festivals, these meatballs are meat, juicy, and utterly addictive! Not only am I a fan of meat on a stick (it's just fun to eat!), but also I love the signature sweet, tart, and tangy tamarind sauce.<br />
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<b>Khao Panaeng Neua:</b> traditional stewed Panang beef curry served over Thai jasmine rice. Admittedly, this isn't the most photogenic dish, but what it lacks in sexiness, it more than makes up for in deliciousness. This heavily aromatic and hearty red curry is salty and sweet with a lovely nutty flavor, a bit of heat, and the perfect amount of herbs. It is pure comfort food, and one of those dishes that you cannot stop eating!<br />
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<b>Khao Lard Ka Praw Gai: </b>stir-fried ground chicken with basil, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and Thai chili peppers served over Thai jasmine rice. While this popular dish can be found at practically any Thai restaurant, JJ's version is particularly nicely done, as the savory, sweet, and spicy elements are all extremely well balanced and not at all oily. As the food is all made to order, you also have the ability to customize the heat level – I usually order the regular level, but you can get it all the way up to extra spicy (beware: when they say extra spicy, they really mean it!).<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at JJ's Thai Street Food<b>: 1715 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><i>JJ's Thai Street Food is a Thai SELECT Certified restaurant. Thai SELECT is a certification program funded by the Ministry of Commerce of Thailand. For restaurants to bear a Thai SELECT certificate, their menus must be comprised of at least 60 percent of dishes considered to be authentic: the restaurants employ the same or similar cooking methods as in Thailand and may import ingredients from Thailand as well. Currently, there are 542 restaurants in the U.S. that are certified with this distinction. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.thaiselectusa.info/">Thai SELECT</a>.</i><br />
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<i style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received compensation to facilitate this post. Review and all opinions are my own.</i>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-44495717281247809222020-08-24T16:39:00.000-05:002020-09-15T13:43:08.848-05:00Chicago Eats: Immm Rice & Beyond<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Located right off the bustling Broadway and Argyle intersection (a neighborhood known for some of the best Southeast Asian restaurants in Chicago), <a href="https://immmchicago.com/" target="_blank">Immm Rice & Beyond</a> is a casual BYOB spot specializing in Thai street food. Most known for their khao rad gang (which roughly translates to "rice lunch plate"), the restaurant boasts an extensive menu of fare most commonly found at Thai food stalls and street carts. Along with their popular lunch plates, they also offer several noodle soups and a rotating selection of kreung jim, relishes/dips typically eaten with vegetables and rice.<br />
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The moment you walk through the front door of Immm, you're enveloped in the tempting rich and pungent aromas of the stews and curries simmering on the steam table. The offerings include various favorites like Sliced Coconut in Panang Curry, Tamarind-Red Curry with Pork Belly, and a 5-Spice Stew with Braised Pork Belly, Egg, and Puff Tofu, as well as specials such as Mackerel and Veggies in a Southern Fermented Fish Entrails Stew. If you've never been to a place like Immm, the smells can be overwhelming (as you'll want to order *everything*!), but part of the fun is diving in and sampling their recommended favorites, as well as the ever-changing daily specials!<br />
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A fellow food blogger/friend introduced me to Immm roughly four years ago after learning that I was on the hunt for a go-to Thai restaurant in my neighborhood. Immm immediately moved into that number one spot (I must have visited/ordered at least seven times the first month!). Since then, I've recommended it to numerous friends and followers as one of my essential Far North Side restaurants.<br />
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<b>Som Tum: </b>Thai Green Papaya Salad with lime-fish sauce vinaigrette, garlic, bird-eye chili, tomatoes, and green beans. Immm offers four varieties of Som Tum, a staple of Thai street foods, each of which varies in heat and funkiness. The salads range from <b>Tom Thai</b> (known as a beginner dish), a slightly sweet and sour version, to <b>Tum Puu Plah Rah</b>, an extra salty, funky, spicy, and sour version that includes preserved crabs and fermented fish sauce.<br />
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<b>Chicken Satay:</b> grilled marinated chicken skewers, cucumber salad, and peanut sauce. This is probably the most famous/popular dish at Thai restaurants in America, and for a good reason. It has always been one of my favorites (as I'm a sucker for meat on a stick!). The chicken is perfectly grilled with just the right amount of smokiness, and the peanut sauce is thick and creamy. It's hard not to love it!<br />
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Tiger Cry: marinated beef served with jaew sauce (dried chili dipping sauce). Speaking of delicious meat, this is one of Mario's (aka my other half) favorites. Tiger Cry is a seemingly super simple dish, but thanks to the absolutely addictive spicy sauce, it pack a serious flavor punch.<br />
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<b>Pad See Eiw:</b> wide rice noodles, Chinese broccoli, egg, and see eiw sauce. My friend who introduced me to Immm referred to Pad See Eiw as a the "spaghetti and meatballs" of Thai food, as its thick noodles and savory-sweet flavors represent pure comfort food. It's also a safe dish if you're looking for something that's hearty and flavorful, but not spicy (as many Thai dishes tend to be). Whenever I'm craving these noodles but want a little more kick, I'll add some dried chili flakes and/or vingar.<br />
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<b>Khao Soi with Tofu: </b>traditional Northern-style curry with boiled and crispy egg noodles served with pickled mustard greens, fresh cabbage, and chili oil. This thick and rich soup is not only heavily aromatic but it's also beautifully balanced thanks to the creamy coconut milk-based curry that pairs perfectly with the heat from the chili oil. There are numerous variations (based on broth and noodles), but my all-time favorite is the traditional Northern version with its layers of flavors and textures.<br />
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<b>Khao Niew Ma Muang: </b>coconut sticky rice with mango and roasted beans. Hands down, this is my favorite dessert at Immm, as well as one of my favorite desserts *ever.* The ripe, sweet mangoes pair perfectly with their signature salty, creamy coconut rice. This dessert is pure heaven! Note: if you see it on the menu, be sure to order it, as they only offer it when the mangoes are in peak condition.<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://immmchicago.com/" target="_blank">Immm Rice & Beyond</a>: 4949 N Broadway, Chicago, IL.</b><br />
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<i>Immm Rice & Beyond is a Thai SELECT Certified restaurant. Thai SELECT is a certification program funded by the Ministry of Commerce of Thailand. For restaurants to bear a Thai SELECT certificate, their menus must be comprised of at least 60 percent of dishes considered to be authentic: the restaurants employ the same or similar cooking methods as in Thailand and may import ingredients from Thailand as well. Currently, there are 542 restaurants in the U.S. that are certified with this distinction. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.thaiselectusa.info/" target="_blank">Thai SELECT</a>.</i><br />
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<i style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received compensation to facilitate this post. Review and all opinions are my own.</i>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-18634620693315811182020-08-19T09:17:00.000-05:002020-08-23T16:05:55.660-05:00Thai Select #ThaiFood4Heroes <div style="text-align: left;">
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Tum Thai Salad from <a href="https://immmchicago.com/" target="_blank">Immm Rice & Beyond</a></span></b><br />
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While most of this year has been complicated, confusing, and difficult for so many, numerous restaurants across the country have banded together to do what they do best: take care of their communities. Independent, mom-and-pop Thai restaurants under <a href="https://spark.adobe.com/page/Df7rGxCiLVms5/" target="_blank">Thai Select USA</a> (a Thai government certified program that provides a seal of approval for authentic Thai restaurants) have made it their mission to feed and thank our frontline workers and healthcare heroes as part of the #ThaiFood4Heroes campaign.<br />
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The movement initially kicked off in New York, New Jersey, and California, with a total of 74 top Thai eateries joining in and cooking up nearly 5,000 meals that were served to frontline workers. As healthcare workers on the front lines are still working long, hard hours amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the program continues to expand to other states, Florida being the most recent to join the cause.<br />
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Over the next few weeks, I'll be featuring several of the fantastic Thai Select USA restaurants in Chicago that are continuing to give selflessly to keep the frontline workers fed (starting with my favorite neighborhood spot, Immm Rice & Beyond!).<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Thai food spread from Thai Select Certified Immm </b><b>Rice & Beyond</b></span></div>
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<b>Chicago-area Thai restaurants that have joined the mission: </b></div>
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<a href="https://www.herbrestaurant.com/" target="_blank"><b>Herb</b></a></div>
<a href="http://www.jjthaistreetfood.com/" target="_blank"><b>J.J. Thai Street Food</b></a><br />
<a href="https://immmchicago.com/" target="_blank"><b>Immm Rice & Beyond</b></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Kuay Tiew Ruea ("Boat Noodles") from Immm </b><b>Rice & Beyond</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.kinnareethaichicago.com/" target="_blank"><b>Kinnaree Thai Restaurant</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.silom12chicago.com/" target="_blank"><b>Silom 12</b></a><br />
<a href="https://www.veganplatechicago.com/" target="_blank"><b>Vegan Plate</b></a><br />
<a href="http://www.jimmythaideerfield.com/" target="_blank"><b>Jimmy Thai</b></a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image courtesy of Thai Select</span></b><br />
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<i style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received compensation to facilitate this post. Review and all opinions are my own.</i>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-24561977084209123752020-08-16T11:36:00.001-05:002020-08-16T18:55:55.252-05:00Recent Foodie Finds: Delivery EditionTap, tap, tap... is this thing on? *Ahem.* How do I even start this post? Suffice to say that I didn't intend to disappear for five months, but well... this year has sucked. I mean, I know you all already know it, but is there really any other way to put it? 2020 is trash. Between the pandemic, social unrest, job stress, the painful hit on Chicago's restaurant community, the loss of my social life, the terrifying presence of anti-science and anti-logic masses, the President's dangerous tomfoolery, sickness/death, and the possibility of what's yet to come when I return to campus next week, 2020 has been one of the most emotional, complicated, and strangest years of my life. Again, I know this isn't unique to me, but I felt weird jumping back in this space without some sort of acknowledgment/update. </rant><br /><br />
As with many of you, I have been working from home since mid-March, which has given me ample opportunity to make my way through numerous delivery/pickup options (side note: I am so grateful to live in a city/neighborhood with plentiful options, as I burned out on the daily cooking routine about a month into the stay-at-home order! 😂). In an effort to *not* have to think about meal planning and as a way to support the restaurant community, I dove head-on into delivery/pickup and turned our apartment into our own private virtual restaurant. While I haven't yet returned to dining in, I'm still heavily ordering in (and I've even ventured out for a few super socially distant outdoor photoshoots), so I have plenty of delicious content to share with you!<br />
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Here are a few of my recent foodie finds (follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/chicagofoodiegirl">Instagram</a> for even more)...<br />
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<b>The Dirty Burg</b> from <a href="https://www.smythandtheloyalist.com/the-loyalist/" target="_blank">The Loyalist</a> (via <a href="https://www.exploretock.com/theloyalist/" target="_blank">Tock</a>). Named one of the best burgers in the country, I've been itching to get my hands on this beauty. Made of short rib, chuck and ground bacon, and topped with housemade pickles, American cheese, onions, and onion-infused mayo on a sesame seed bun, this burger is messy, indulgent, and so freaking delicious! And YES, it's absolutely one of the best burgers I've ever had!</div>
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New favorite combo: <b>Brown Sugar Boba Tea</b> paired with the crispiest, most delicious <b>Popcorn Chicken with basil</b> from Taiwanese street food spot <a href="https://www.hellojasmineus.com/" target="_blank">Hello Jasmine</a>. I’ve tried *a lot* of fried chicken this summer - these poppable bites absolutely are amongst my favorites! </div>
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While I'm hesitant to declare a favorite donut shop in Chicago (as I have favorite donuts from every shop!), <a href="https://www.doritedonuts.com/" target="_blank">Do-Rite Donuts</a> has definitely been our most-ordered over the last five months. Mario (aka my other half) is partial to the <b>Old Fashioneds</b>, while I always reach for the <b>Birthday Cake Sprinkles</b> and the <b>Apple Fritter</b>. We also both LOVE the <b>Candied Maple Bacon</b>, so of course, we always have to order two.</div>
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<a href="https://www.steak48.com/steakhouses/chicago/" target="_blank">Steak 48</a> is one of our all-time favorite steakhouses/go-to special occasion spots (see our amazing first visit <a href="http://www.chicagofoodiegirl.com/2019/08/steak-48.html" target="_blank">here</a>). Since we couldn't dine out for Mario's birthday, we treated ourselves to a fab dinner, complete with <b>steak, lobster, wine pairing, and a decadent chocolate cake</b>, at home. </div>
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Speaking of favorites, the <b>South African Lobster Pot</b> from <a href="https://www.eddiev.com/home" target="_blank">Eddie V's </a>is one of my favorite seafood dishes in Chicago, so of course, had to jump on it as soon as I saw they were offering it as a takeout option! The meaty South African lobster tails are broiled with garlic, heirloom tomatoes, and fresh herbs in a pool of buttery deliciousness.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmu1X4cONGlQz2LMDmURTNS1m8jWtHWEi8sqoZHYIRx4bJGfTNzC72n4f5vrodh0A9h4ow01D_bfiCgtPgULyQ-0GMjBlugvB68cQWdzcr87T8rB7g_pJattpuMG_TzLosgDMKHxsor1g/s2048/hivibe.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmu1X4cONGlQz2LMDmURTNS1m8jWtHWEi8sqoZHYIRx4bJGfTNzC72n4f5vrodh0A9h4ow01D_bfiCgtPgULyQ-0GMjBlugvB68cQWdzcr87T8rB7g_pJattpuMG_TzLosgDMKHxsor1g/s1600/hivibe.jpg" /></a></div>
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I finally popped my smoothie bowl cherry at the newest location of <a href="https://hi-vibe.com/" target="_blank">Hi-Vibe</a> in West Lakeview with the <b>OG Açaí</b>: banana and lemon chaga tea topped with Hi-Vibe granola, coconut shreds, bee pollen, seasonal fruit, cinnamon maca almond butter. While I previously had made smoothie bowls at home, this was my first time trying a professionally made bowl. Spoiler alert: shockingly, it was soooo much better than my homemade bowls. </div>
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I've never been much of a hot dog person, but the gourmet dogs from <a href="https://doghaus.com/" target="_blank">Dog Haus</a> officially have turned me into one! My current favorite is the <b>So Cali</b> (center) with wild arugula, avocado, tomato, crispy onions, and spicy basil aioli.</div>
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In my quest to try allll of the delicious fried chicken sandwiches in Chicago, I stumbled upon the <b>Midwestern Fried Chicken Sandwich</b> with bacon fat ranch, Wisconsin cheddar, pepper bacon, and pickles from <a href="http://www.longmanandeagle.com/eat" target="_blank">Longman & Eagle</a>. If you like your chicken sammies crispy, peppery, and insanely delicious, this is a must-order! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyEnZa-oGBAfyee0oa1RWX0eLOAsf1WuHVzr4kdDsVJa9rCijrPkiIMpr5CRh7PEOwj3a28ih8dTHcTLpwwqX2BiQK9dXh7QqMJbXTMUxg-xvhDHBOX5h-4p8ymcDlgIu3NhMRoD81I8WC/s2048/longman.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyEnZa-oGBAfyee0oa1RWX0eLOAsf1WuHVzr4kdDsVJa9rCijrPkiIMpr5CRh7PEOwj3a28ih8dTHcTLpwwqX2BiQK9dXh7QqMJbXTMUxg-xvhDHBOX5h-4p8ymcDlgIu3NhMRoD81I8WC/s1600/longman.jpg" /></a></div>
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We also sampled Longman & Eagle's special Burger Day <b>Ultimate Hometown Burge</b>r creation: Slagel Family Farm dry-aged patty topped with Italian beef, provolone, giardiniera, and sweet peppers with au jus on the side for dipping. This is now my new favorite way to enjoy an Italian beef! </div>
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Ever since my favorite neighborhood Detroit-style pizza joint closed, I've been on a hunt for a new spot. Thankfully, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fivesquaredfoodtruck/" target="_blank">Five Squared</a> popped into my life just in time - as a native Michigander, I grew up eating Detroit-style pizza and I can absolutely say it is legit! They offer both pickup and delivery every Friday; each box contains 4 slices and you can mix and match (DM via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fivesquaredfoodtruck/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> to order!). <b>Pepperoni</b>, <b>Pesto</b>, <b>PBnJ</b> (pepperoni, bacon, jalapeño), and <b>Cheeseburger</b> (100% grass-fed 85/15 ground beef, caramelized onions, American cheese, homemade classic burger sauce). </div>
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Along with fried chicken sandwiches, we've also been working our way through the plentiful chicken wing options in our neighborhood (I've become a bit of a wing connoisseur over the last year 😉). We celebrated National Chicken Wing Day with the special saucy and sweet <b>Honey Buffalo Wings</b> from <a href="https://urbangrillchicago.com/" target="_blank">Urban Grill Chicago</a>. </div>
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<b>S'More Cupcakes </b>from <a href="https://sprinkles.com/" target="_blank">Sprinkles Cupcakes</a> (my all-time Sprinkles favorites!): graham cracker-lined Belgian dark chocolate cake filled with bittersweet chocolate ganache and topped with toasted marshmallow frosting. </div>
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Just look at that sexy chocolatey goodness! </div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-68965496555665375942020-02-24T12:06:00.000-06:002020-08-23T16:19:37.514-05:00Chicago Eats: Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As soon as I stopped by <a href="https://www.inamaetavern.com/">Ina Mae Tavern</a> for the first time shortly after it opened in 2018, I knew it was going to become one of my favorite neighborhood spots. There was something about the combination of the fantastic food and homey atmosphere that really spoke to me. I had visited New Orleans for the first time only a few months before and had one of the best food experiences of my life - the moment I walked into Ina Mae, I felt like I had been transported back to the magic. Fast forward to a year and a half later, I've been back numerous times for brunch, dinner, live music, game nights, and most recently, for one of the best Mardi Gras celebrations you'll find in Chicago!<br />
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Named for Chef Brian Jupiter's (of <a href="https://www.thefrontierchicago.com/">Frontier</a>) great-grandmother, Ina Mae is a tribute to New Orleans soul food with a blend of French, Caribbean, Spanish, and African flavors. The menu is inspired by the dishes of Jupiter's childhood and the strong southern women who ran his big family. You'll even see some of their own recipes dotted throughout the menu, like the gumbo and the fried chicken. Along with his family favorites, the menu also boasts New Orleans staples such as po'-boys, chargrilled oysters, jambalaya, seafood by the pound, and the always popular frozen Sno-Balls.<br />
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Through February, the restaurant is featuring a <a href="https://www.inamaetavern.com/happenings/">Mardi Gras pop up</a>, which includes live music, food specials, and an Absinthe lounge (available every Thursday-Saturday).<br />
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Their cocktail program features a host of creative vintage cocktails; if you're ordering from the regular menu, the <b>Papa Doble</b>, a clean and refreshing daiquiri made with Cruzan white rum, fresh grapefruit and lime, rhum agricolem, and maraschino liqueur is most definitely a must-try! If you swing by before the end of the month, you have to check out the special Krewe Du Ina cocktail menu featuring five frozen daiquiris, absinthe cocktails and, of course, <b>Hurricanes</b>.<br />
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<b>BBQ Shrimp & Grits </b>with Parmesan cheese, corn, and scallions. Hands-down, this is my favorite version of shrimp & grits in Chicago! As I've mentioned in the past, it's not always easy to find good shrimp & grits in the Midwest. So many of them are pasty, watery, or don't have much texture. These are so nicely done and remind me of the life-changing BBQ shrimp I had at <a href="https://willajean.com/">Willa Jean</a> in NOLA.<br />
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<b>Po' Man's Seafood Tower:</b> shrimp, oysters, crawfish, catfish, hushpuppies, and crispy potatoes. The first time I saw this, I had no idea how we were going to finish it, but an hour later, a few daiquiris, and a good fourth of a bottle of Chef Jup's addictive housemade hot sauce, the bowl was just about empty and we were all full of fried food goodness!<br />
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<b>Crawfish Scrambled Eggs</b> with holy trinity, hot sauce, cheddar, and toast. I'm usually not one to order scrambled eggs (as I can easily make them myself), but I will never turn down Ina Mae's version! The eggs are perfectly moist, cheesy, and fluffy and topped with a generous amount of meaty crawfish.<br />
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<b>Mae's Fried Chicken & Pancakes:</b> salted praline pancakes with crispy chicken wings and hot maple syrup. While I've been a fan of Chef Jup's buttermilk brined fried chicken since my inaugural visit, it wasn't until my most recent brunch a few weeks ago that I tried the chicken and pancakes... OMG. This is 100% my new favorite dish on their menu thanks to the flavor bomb of savory fried chicken and the sweet and nutty pancakes. Chicken & waffles has long been one of my all-time favorite brunch dishes, but this version has officially taken over its spot!<br />
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<b>Gator Sausage and Drop Buttermilk Biscuits. </b>If you've never tried gator sausage before, Ina Mae's is a great place to do so as it's particularly well done (and fairly non-threatening looking for those of you who may be freaked out by the idea!). Don't forget to pair it with their light and fluffy biscuits with bacon jam.<br />
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<b>Beignets and Boozy Slushies.</b> You can't leave without dessert - the powdered-sugar-laden beignets and boozy slushie of the day are definitely the way to go (Sno-Balls will return in the spring!).<br />
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If you're looking for a homey and fun spot with some seriously tasty food that will take you right back to NOLA, Ina Mae definitely should be on your list! You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://www.inamaetavern.com/">Ina Mae Tavern</a>: 1415 N Wood St., Chicago, IL.</b></div>
chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-59953277860969704942020-01-27T11:33:00.000-06:002020-08-23T16:19:13.507-05:00Chicago Eats: Oda Mediterranean Cuisine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chicagofoodiegirl/">Instagram</a>, you may recall me mentioning earlier this month that one of my goals for this year is to feature more spots in my 'hood. Typically, when I go out to eat in the <a href="http://www.andersonville.org/">Andersonville</a>/<a href="https://www.edgewater.org/">Edgewater</a> area, I try to disconnect from food blogger mode (aka not take a million photos and actually eat hot food!). As much as I enjoy those non-blogger meals, it means that I often never end up sharing the fab eats in my neighborhood. That definitely needs to change, as there are so many fantastic places on the far north side everyone needs to check out, starting with one of my newest favorites <a href="https://www.odachicago.com/">Oda Mediterranean Cuisine</a>!<br />
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Tucked into the quiet northern end of Andersonville, Oda offers diners a cozy atmosphere, an interesting selection of Georgian wines, and some of the best Turkish comfort food you'll find in Chicago. Owners Marina Cardak and her daughter Tamta Meladze are well known in the neighborhood as the former owners of the much-loved Turkish Cuisine restaurant that left Andersonville several years ago. Thankfully, they're back in the 'hood and better than ever! Their newest venture, Oda, not only gives diners an authentic taste of Turkey but also features the flavors of neighboring Mediterranean nations including France, the Middle East, Italy, and Cardak's home country of Georgia.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bunnyandbrandy.com/">Jess</a> and I knew we were in for a fantastic meal as soon as we walked in and discovered the warm and intimate space filled with cute touches and the homey aromas permeating the air.<br />
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Oda offers a wide selection of Mediterranean and Turkish wines, including traditional qvevri wine (made in buried clay jars). We particularly enjoyed the <b>Tchotiashvili Rkatsiteli</b>, a complex and herbal dry white wine.<br />
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<b>Mixed Appetizer Platter:</b> hummus, babaganoush, atom, ezme, dolma, and mini eggplant roulades. This is a perfect way to start any meal, as you get a little taste of everything - the hummus, atom, and dolma are especially nicely done.<br />
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<b>Khachapuri Shampurze:</b> Georgian cheesy bread served on a skewer. There are several variations of this spit-roasted, cheese-filled bread (based on region) and let me just say that I will never turn down this glistening cocoon of carby goodness filled with oozy molten cheese!<br />
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<b>Charred Baby Octopus</b> with silky roasted peppers, garlic confit, shallots, and roasted basil potatoes. The octopus was perfectly seared (there's nothing worse than rubbery octopus!) and the bright, garlicky sauce enhanced the tender meat.<br />
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<b>Moussaka:</b> baked eggplant, zucchini, cremini mushrooms, asparagus, spinach, mozzarella, feta, bechamel, and oda marinara (with optional meat). Not only is this moussaka deeply flavorful and absolutely delicious, but it also comes served under its own crunchy cheese arch. Ever since I tried this amazingness, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about how I basically want to live under a beautiful arch of cheese. 🤣<br />
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<b>Mushroom Stroganoff:</b> caramelized mushrooms, sour cream, and bechamel. Both Jess and I agreed that along with the moussaka, this stroganoff was a major standout of our visit. It's creamy, rich, and hearty, but still light enough to keep you from feeling overly stuffed at the end of the meal. This is definitely one of those comfort dishes that I will be revisiting several times this winter!<br />
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Of course, we had to end our meal with a round of <b>Turkish Coffee</b> and freshly-made <b>Baklava</b>. If you've never had Turkish coffee before, be forewarned, as it definitely packs a punch! In many regions, as with tea leaf reading, Turkish coffee cup-reading is a popular method of fortune-telling - your fortune can be told by the coffee grinds left in the cup.<br />
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If you're looking for a friendly and cozy environment and some seriously tasty food on the far north side, this homey neighborhood spot definitely should be on your list! You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://www.odachicago.com/">Oda Mediterranean Cuisine</a>: 5657 N Clark St., Chicago, IL.</b></div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-57012748855751439832020-01-13T11:20:00.002-06:002021-06-27T18:42:55.908-05:00Recent Foodie FindsHappy New Year! I hope everyone had a fantastic holiday season and start to 2020. As per usual, I spent the first few weeks of my winter break in perpetual eating mode with nonstop restaurant visits and various holiday fêtes, followed by a week of Netflix and chill (and that would be <i>actual</i> chill, not the other kind). Now that I've worked my way through <i>You</i>, <i>Fuller House</i>, <i>Watchmen</i>, and <i>The Crown</i>, the time has come for me to stop acting like I'm a professional lady of leisure and finish my spring semester planning (classes start in just over a week! 😱).<br />
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While I'm not one to get caught up in the New Year's resolutions hype, I do focus on meeting specific goals throughout the year. As I definitely lost my writing grove during this last round of grad school, one of my major goals of this year is to be more consistent in this space and double the number of posts from last year (which shouldn't be all that difficult considering last year was a record low for me). This is all to say that I will be around more this year - I have plans for a monthly round-up of Chicago restaurant visits, as well as a look at some of my most recent travels. Stayed tuned for some exciting content!<br />
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Here are a few of my recent foodie finds (follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/chicagofoodiegirl">Instagram </a>for even more!)...<br />
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<b>Amatriciana Pizza </b>with tomato, pecorino, and guanciale at <a href="https://www.barcargo.com/">Bar Cargo</a>. While Chicago may be known as the city of deep-dish pizza, anyone who lives here will tell you that the real standouts are the places that focus on light and crispy crust with deeply flavorful toppings. The Roman-style pizzas at Bar Cargo are fired in a stone oven imported from Rome and have a perfectly done crispy-tender crust that holds up well to toppings.<br />
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<b>Snapper Ceviche</b> with sweet potato puree, avocado, dragon fruit, trout roe, and ponzu leche de tigre at <a href="https://www.cabrachicago.com/">Cabra</a>. Stephie Izard's newest spot (on the rooftop of the gorgeous <a href="https://thehoxton.com/">The Hoxton</a> hotel) highlights the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. The ceviche offerings are definitely a standout and the snapper is the star with its large cuts and super bright flavors.<br />
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<b>Allis Breakfast</b> (two eggs any style, smoked salmon, roasted tomato, avocado, toast) and <b>Smoked Salmon Bagel</b> at <a href="http://www.theallis.com/#menus">The Allis</a>. Along with the gorgeous space and all-day breakfast menu, The Allis also has some of the best almond croissants in the entire city! While Soho House is members only, The Allis is open to the public and offers a lovely and relaxed space; it's especially great for brunch and afternoon tea. </div>
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<b>Al Pastor, Barbacoa, Chicken Tinga, Citrus Shrimp, Roasted Mushroom, and Carnitas Tacos</b> at <a href="https://asaditotaco.com/">Asadito</a>. I've said it a million times before - I SO wish all of these fast-casual spots were around back when I worked downtown! Back then, it was mostly either higher-end restaurants that were too expensive for lunch or greasy fast food joints. Asadito is definitely a fab spot for lunch or after work. The tortillas are hand-pressed, the tacos are stuffed, and they offer over 2,000 specialized margarita options. My favorites include the citrus shrimp and chicken tinga tacos (and be sure to grab some churros!).<br />
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<br /><br /><b>Pizza da Colazione</b> with sunny-side-up eggs, caramelized onion, mozzarella, tomato sauce, and Prosciutto di San Daniele at <a href="https://www.quartinoristorante.com/">Quartino</a>. As I mentioned on Instagram, I’d like to give a big thank you to the person who decided breakfast ‘za covered in runny eggs should be a thing! This is a particularly nicely done version, thanks to the combination of the crispy crust, runny yolks, and copious amount of delicate prosciutto.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am a sucker for cute packaging and these delicious <b>Liqrboxes</b> (boozy juice boxes) from <a href="http://liqrboxchicago.com/">LiqrBox</a> are the perfect mix of fun and nostalgia!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK7RmBJ5tAfFa80aICSPxsX4bXSSiTmwFK_0ap4lORacaVx-d1ItgLWP8WMy5fkzbB4iKrqKxSnhlpans3Cq0cUm7zzcSjQ9WulDWEr0V1BJqNkKOfhxBhpRPODDDzQsOrTiKT7FXzfHI/s2048/allium.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1407" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK7RmBJ5tAfFa80aICSPxsX4bXSSiTmwFK_0ap4lORacaVx-d1ItgLWP8WMy5fkzbB4iKrqKxSnhlpans3Cq0cUm7zzcSjQ9WulDWEr0V1BJqNkKOfhxBhpRPODDDzQsOrTiKT7FXzfHI/s16000/allium.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>How gorgeous is the <b>Ora King Salmon </b>from <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/chicago/dining/restaurants/" target="_blank">Allium</a>?! Topped with chickpeas, baby heirloom tomatoes, pickled mushrooms, and harissa vinaigrette, not only is this dish drool-worthy, but it's also straight-up food art! If you're looking for a lowkey but still elevated spot for dinner on the Mag Mile, I highly recommend stopping by the Four Seasons Hotel to check out their new menu filled with Midwestern-inspired seasonal bites.<br />
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The newest location of the Korean-French bakery <a href="https://www.instagram.com/touslesjourschi/">Tous les Jours</a> in Wicker Park is the place to get some of the best (and most gorgeous!) cakes, croissants, breads, and more. I really do love everything I’ve tried from there, but I have to say that the fresh fruit and cream cakes are definitely standouts. My absolute favorite is the <b>Strawberry Cream Cake</b> - it’s so light, fluffy, and beautifully done!</div>
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<b>Yakisoba Dog</b>: Vienna Beef red hot topped with yakisoba noodles at <a href="http://ramen-misoya.com/yakisoba-misoya/">Yakisoba Misoya</a>. The sister restaurant to the popular Ramen Misoya, Yakisoba Misoya specializes in Japanese street food, including noodles, chicken karaage, and takoyaki. The Yakisoba Dog is a fun spin on Japan's famous Yakisoba Sandwich and special to its Chicago location.<br />
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One of the most frequent questions I get on Instagram is about my favorite places for Cuban food. It just so happens that Cuban is one of my absolute favorite cuisines, so I've worked my way through almost every Cuban joint in the city! Of all the places I've tried thus far, hands down, my favorite <b>Cubano</b> is from <a href="https://www.90milescubancafe.com/">90 Miles Cuban Cafe</a> (named for the number of miles from Cuba to Key West) - it's even better when paired with their fantastic Cuba Libres.</div>
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I'm not a big fan of al fresco dining during the summer (as I'm a heat and humidity wimp!), but I'm all about the gorgeous fall and unseasonably warm winter evenings spent outside. West Loop shared plate Mexican/Central American/South American fusion restaurant <a href="http://bartakito.com/">Bar Takito</a> is a fun and vibrant place for patio hangs and interesting flavors. My favorite dishes include the <b>Octopus a la Plancha, Coffee Braised Beef Tacos, and Brunkow Cheese Tacos.</b><br />
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</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>ETA: Allium has closed.</b></div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-17277551988602245092019-12-23T17:46:00.001-06:002023-08-26T07:45:34.753-05:00Chicago Eats: Holiday Tea at The Langham <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you all know by now, I am a huge fan of a good afternoon tea service. It's funny because in my day-to-day life, other than chai, I'm actually not much of a tea drinker, but there's just something about the ritual of tea service that makes me so incredibly happy (perhaps it has something to do with secretly being a Brit at heart). While I'm down for tea service year-round, I especially love it during the holiday season; there's nothing better than a lovely and relaxing afternoon spent with your girlfriends indulging in everything sparkly, twinkly, girly, and delicious.<br />
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This year, <a href="http://www.sedbona.com/">Ashley</a>, aka my favorite fellow Anglophile, and I decided to make our way over to <a href="http://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/chicago/">The Langham</a> for their holiday tea service. While we've both been to Travelle at The Langham numerous times over the years (<a href="http://www.chicagofoodiegirl.com/2016/01/travelle-kitchen-bar.html">here's</a> our very first visit back in 2016), neither of us had managed to make it in for their holiday tea, so this was an extra special treat. The service is held in their second-floor lounge, Pavillion, and includes a variety of<span style="text-align: center;"> proprietary Langham teas and an array of sweet and savory bites, all served on gorgeous Wedgewood teaware </span>made exclusively for The Langham. It is definitely a must-experience tea service, as The Langham is credited as the first luxury hotel in Europe to serve afternoon tea beginning in 1865.<br />
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The lobby at The Langham is always swoon-worthy, even more so during the holidays (especially when your friend brings it in head-to-toe sequins!). The ceiling features over 500 glass-blown pebbles, and their gorgeous tree showcases their signature pink.<br />
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The Holiday Tea menu includes a spread of savories, scones, and desserts, as well as sparkling wine (or the champagne upgrade, which of course, we had to get!) and tea selections.<br />
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We firmly believe every good celebration begins with glasses of bubbly!<br />
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The tea service menu offers over fifteen options, ranging from classic, traditional flavors to specialty teas only offered during the holidays. Based on our server's recommendation, I selected the <b>Children's Tea</b>, a South African rooibos blended with sweet, fruity rhubarb (perfect if you like a slightly sweeter tea). I also sampled the <b>Nutcracker</b>, a robust, full-bodied Ceylon black tea infused with hazelnut and vanilla (so lovely for the winter weather!). Everything is served on their beautiful Wedgewood teaware, designed to create a classic experience for guests.<br />
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The savories tray is made up of a variety of sandwiches boasting international flavors, which are definitely more unique than the typical offerings. This year's service includes: </div>
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<li><b>Milk-Braised Lamb Rillettes </b>with Medjool date chutney, frisée, and celery </li>
<li><b>Green Circle Chicken Cone</b> with tomato jam, burrata, and petite basil </li>
<li><b>Butternut Squash Tartlet</b> with Brussels sprouts, creamy Crescenza, and toasted pepitas </li>
<li><b>Seedless Cucumber Greek Salad</b> with garbanzo yogurt spread, sweet peppers, and spearmint</li>
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Not to be outdone by their savory counterparts, the pastries are all beautifully festive and delicious:</div>
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<li><b>Mont Blanc</b>: chestnut cream, mascarpone mousse, and orange cinnamon curd </li>
<li><b>Hot Cocoa Kiss</b>: cocoa sable, marshmallow crème, and chocolate peppermint ganache </li>
<li><b>Black Forest Yule Log</b>: dark chocolate sponge, Morello cherry mousse, and white chocolate glaze</li>
<li><b>Santa’s Milk and Cookies:</b> white chocolate pot de crème, eggnog chantilly, and gingersnap cookie</li>
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The service also includes a basket of <b>Fruitcake Scones and Gingerbread Scones </b>served with Devonshire cream, Christmas jam, and apricot jam.</div>
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The whole experience at The Langham is lovely, and I cannot wait to head back over there next year to experience their themed tea services (previous themes have included <i>Downton Abbey</i> and <i>Alice in Wonderland</i>). Whether for an afternoon with girlfriends, a work outing, family time, or a romantic date, I highly recommend adding an afternoon at The Langham to your plans!<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="http://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/chicago/">The Langham Chicago</a>: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL</b><b>.</b></div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-64067654798237330732019-11-11T10:32:00.000-06:002020-08-23T16:06:59.995-05:00Travel Eats: Mike's Donuts & Chicken in Kenosha, WI<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I've mentioned here before, I have a soft spot for Wisconsin. I spent my undergraduate years there and have fond memories of the land of amazing dairy products (yes, I know there's so much more to the state than its delicious cheese, but really, cheese always takes precedence!). Back when I lived up there, Chicago was one of my favorite spots for spontaneous road trips and now that I live in Chicago, the Milwaukee-area has taken that place of honor.<br />
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It was during one of those random road trips a few years ago that I first stumbled upon the quirky and fun <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MikeLikesDonuts">Mike's Donuts & Chicken</a> in downtown Kenosha. Open since 2014, Mike's quickly established itself as the spot to go to worship at the altar of the almighty combo of donuts, chicken, craft beer, and whiskey. Along with the daily rotating donut offerings, donut and chicken specialties, 80 different craft beers on tap, Mike also boasts a wide variety of Jameson offerings, including Jameson on top, cocktails made with Jamesons, and my personal favorite, the Wall of Jameson. Made up of reserved bottles, each buyer signs the Book of Jameson and designates the list of people who have the authority to drink from that bottle.<br />
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How can you not feel anything but happy at a restaurant with such an adorable logo?!</div>
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Of course, you have to try the signature <b>Donuts & Chicken</b>. Back in 2015, I never would have thought to pair donuts and chicken, but it all made sense after only a single bite (and now that pairing is everywhere!). Not only is Mike's version ridiculously photogenic, but it's also the perfect combination of salty and sweet - it's like an even better version of chicken and waffles. </div>
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Another must-order and personal favorite are the <b>Donut Glazed Wings</b>. Similar in concept to the donuts & chicken, these crispy wings coated with a donut glaze offer a perfectly satisfying combination of sweet and savory.<br />
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If you're not into the donut/chicken mashup, there are still plenty of delicious chicken options such as my go-to sandwich, the <b>Blue Buffalo</b> (Buffalo chicken and blue cheese) on a fluffy biscuit.<br />
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Of course, you can't leave Mike's without trying their donuts, or even better yet, a <b>Donut Pizza</b>! They start by shaping the donut dough into a pizza-like crust, baking it off, and then topping it with various glazes and candies. Their pizzas come in five flavors: <b>Classic </b>(covered in rainbow sprinkles), <b>Cinnamon Toast Crunch</b> (my favorite!), <b>S’mores</b>, <b>Peanut Butter Explosion</b>, and <b>Oreo</b>.<br />
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They also offer an array of freshly made super fluffy donuts, including flavors such as <b>Bacon Maple </b>(this is definitely one of their best!), <b>Peanut Butter Cup</b>, <b>Chocolate Cyclops, Jolly Rancher, Lucky Charms</b>, <b>Almond Joy,</b> and <b>Mud Pie</b>. Don't get there too late in the day though, as they tend to sell out early, especially on the weekends!<br />
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Unfortunately, Mike's Donuts & Chicken is closing this week, so you only have a few days to head up to Wisconsin to get your donuts and chicken on (so sad!). However, they're planning for some pop-ups in 2020, so you're not totally out of luck if you miss out this week (yay!). You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MikeLikesDonuts/">Mike's Donuts & Chicken</a>: 701 56th St., Kenosha, WI.</b><br />
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<b>ETA: This restaurant has closed.</b></div>
chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-53965018124658798342019-09-23T09:32:00.001-05:002020-08-23T16:20:14.869-05:00Chicago Eats: Katana <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Monday and happy fall! Although we're mostly in summer daytime weather mode around here, I'm still super excited to see the return of my favorite season. Not only am I ready to shift into all things fall (apples! pumpkin everything! bonfires! foliage!), this is also the time for me to hit up all of my favorite restaurant patios before we move into snow season. I know most people think of peak patio time as June-August but for me, I'm all about the late summer/early fall evenings when the sun has lost its intensity and the bugs have finally beat a swift retreat.<br />
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I kicked off my fall patio tour de force with a visit to the lavish West Coast import, <a href="https://www.katanarobata.com/locations/chicago">Katana</a> in River North. Open since summer 2017, Katana took over the massive 13,000-square-foot former Bin 36 space and transformed it into a sleek and modern spot complete with a dramatic design and sexy vibe, three specialty kitchens (sushi bar, hot kitchen, and robatayaki grill), and a long list of sake and Japanese whisky offerings. Known for their upscale sushi selection and meats cooked over special charcoal imported from Japan, the third location of Katana also includes a focus on prime steaks, as a nod to its first foray into the Midwest.<br />
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Having been to Katana several times over the past year (but this was my first patio dinner date!) I already knew their signature <b>Tropical Infusion</b> cocktail was on my must-order list. Not only is this drink a refreshing mix of vodka, watermelon, and fresh pineapple, it's also beautifully presented (I'm always a sucker for a pretty cocktail!). It's obviously an excellent patio cocktail and it's also perfect for whenever you want something light and fruity, but not overwhelmingly sweet.<br />
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<b>Kampachi Crudo </b>in miso vinaigrette<b> </b>topped with cherry tomatoes, lava salt, almond chili garlic oil, and trout roe. Based on previous visits, I also knew this dish was another must for me. Kampachi (also known as amberjack) is buttery and rich yellowtail that pairs naturally well with bold citrus and smokey flavor. Katana's beautifully balanced version initially won me over with only one bite! Along with the creamy citrus flavors, the dish also has a nice smokey component, thanks to the trout roe that is smoked over the hickory coals. Note: the cold dishes do rotate frequently based on availability - I highly recommend trying either the crudo, the hamachi, or the toro.<br />
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<b>Hanabi:</b> spicy tuna on crispy rice. This is the final item that I absolutely had to revisit (and introduce it to my friend, as I raved about it so much!). I've had numerous versions of this crispy rice tuna at various restaurants, but none beat Katana's. These addictive chewy little pillows of crispy rice and soft spicy tuna are so melt-in-your-mouth delicious that you absolutely will not want to share.<br />
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<b>Ingen Itame:</b> sautéed Chinese green beans in a spicy garlic sauce. At this point, we decided to turn our dinner selections over to the kitchen. If you stop by Katana for dinner, you have the option of letting them create a tailored experienced based on your preferences. After chatting with us about our likes and dislikes, our server put together a three-course meal (hot dishes, sushi, and dessert) that ended up being one of the best omakase experiences either of us have ever had!<br />
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<b>Nasu Dengaku: </b>Japanese eggplant, baby bok choy, and miso. Quite honestly, eggplant is never something I would order, as I tend not to like the flavor nor the texture, but this was incredible. The eggplant was firm (eliminating any texture issues) and covered in a slightly sweet miso glaze - my friend described it as eggplant candy.</div>
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<b>Wagyu Dumplings:</b> A5 wagyu with miso dressing, crunchy chili garlic, shaved Brussels sprouts, and furikake. A major benefit of letting the kitchen choose your meal is the possibility for some off-menu items like these incredible dumplings. The flavors were so spectacular and the meat so tender - at one point, my friend literally moaned while working her way through a dumpling! While this dish is not a regular menu item, I do highly recommend asking for something special made with their wagyu as part of your experience.<br />
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<b>Robata Skewers:</b> Gyu (rib eye), Wagyu Kosho (wagyu & black pepper sauce), Suzuki (Chilean seabass), Ebi Bekon (jumbo shrimp wrapped in bacon with chili garlic sauce), and Tsukune (chicken meatball) served with classic ponzu, ginger sauce, and Karachi mustard. Part of what makes Katana so special is their robata grill - the skewers are all cooked over an open flame using Binchō-tan (Japanese white charcoal). The result is meat that is lightly crisped, extremely tender, and ridiculously flavorful. In fact, they're so flavorful that you'll probably skip right over all of the dipping sauces!<br />
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<b>Sushi Course:</b> Spicy Tako Roll, Botan Ebi, Sea Bream, Salmon, and Isaki (grunt fish). For our sushi course, the kitchen sent out a selection of their most popular offerings, along with a few specials, designed to move from lighter to more intense flavors. We especially enjoyed the grunt fish, a very delicate and sweet white fish with a higher fat content (making it perfect for nigiri).<br />
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<b>Carnival Cake: </b>crunchy, chocolate brownie topped with layers of raspberry gelée and creamy peanut butter semifreddo topped with toasted meringue, house-made toffee, and pretzels, and encased in cotton candy that is dosed in vodka set alight tableside. Yes, this dessert is over the top layers of sweetness that every Instagrammer loves to order (see it in action <a href="https://instagram.com/p/Bg9r5qwh3-g/">here</a>) - it's exactly as crazy as it sounds and that's why everyone wants it. Really, who doesn't love a little fire show with their dessert?!<br />
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Given the size of their menu and wide array of sushi, vegetable, and meat options, everyone in your party will find something they love at Katana. You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b>Katana: 339 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL.</b><br />
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<b>ETA: This restaurant has closed.</b></div>
chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-17938549596009421732019-08-07T10:43:00.000-05:002020-08-23T16:20:28.145-05:00Chicago Eats: Steak 48<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Chicago has been known as a meat-and-potatoes kind of town since the days in which the stockyards made it the largest producer of meat. While the culinary scene definitely has evolved since those days, the city still loves (LOVES) its steak. By the last count, Chicago is home to over 50 steakhouses, at least half of which are in the downtown area (and several of which are considered amongst the best steakhouses in the country!). Really, steakhouses are a dime a dozen here, so as you can imagine, it's hard for newcomers to stand out amongst the crowd. However. <a href="https://www.steak48.com/steakhouses/chicago/">Steak 48</a> manages to do just so.<br />
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Open since 2017, Steak 48 is part of the new breed of steakhouses in the city - it's glitzy, stylish, and packed with sparkly, glittery bits everywhere you turn. It has a modern feel that breaks away from the old boys' club stuffy steakhouse vibe and appeals to a younger crowd that cares as much about the aesthetic as the food. However, this isn't one of those restaurants that are all show; the food is as equally beautiful and fantastic as the gorgeous space. Started in Phoenix by the brothers behind Mastro's Steakhouse, the family's third location is a gigantic space with a massive menu to match. Usually, such a large menu would raise a red flag, but Steak 48 has all of their dishes down pat (and having sampled a good third of the menu, I can confidently say you really cannot go wrong with any of their offerings!).<br />
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Recently, Mario and I stopped by with a few friends for dinner on a Friday night. The restaurant is deceivingly huge with a variety of separated rooms spread out over two floors (including a patio). The dining spaces are all modern and elegant, but still cozy; there are also plenty of private alcoves and glassed-in booths, making it perfect for any size group. While the restaurant was packed the night we dined, it never felt like it was overcrowded or too loud (which is one of my biggest annoyances about downtown restaurants on the weekends).<br />
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Mario and I got there a little early, so we spent some time working our way through the cocktail menu while waiting for our friends. The restaurant boasts a drink menu that includes a variety of well-crafted specialty cocktails (the <b>Walnut 46 Old Fashioned</b> is definitely a standout!) as well as a wine program that includes 50 wines by the glass and over 150 wines by the bottle.<br />
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Just as our friends walked in, our server set down the most beautiful and aromatic <b>Monkey Bread</b> with sea salt, Parmesan, and garlic. Steak 48 is one of those places in which you do not want to skip the bread (especially if you're a carb whore like me!). The warm bread has a light crunch on the outside and a soft, fluffy inside. It's really some of the most flavorful and texturally pleasing steakhouse bread I've ever had.<br />
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We kicked off our round of appetizers with the<b> King Crab and Avocado Stack</b> with a layer of crispy wontons. While this is a fairly standard steakhouse dish, it's particularly well done at Steak 48, thanks to the generous amount of fresh crab meat and the addition of the wontons, which give it a nice crunch.<br />
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<b>Crispy Shrimp Deviled Eggs </b>with Parmesan. I am always down for a creamy deviled egg; the addition of the crispy and saucy shrimp really hit the mark for me!<br />
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<b>Chef's PB&J</b> with paté, fig jam, and bourbon. This fun play on peanut butter and jelly sandwich (and house favorite appetizer!) is a perfect balance of sweet and savory.<br />
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<b>Rhode Island Calamari & Shrimp </b>with cherry peppers and buttermilk seasoned flour. While I tend to prefer grilled shrimp and calamari to breaded, even I have to admit this version is nicely done, as the flavorful buttermilk batter is light enough to not overpower the seafood.<br />
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<b>Heirloom Tomato Salad </b>with champagne vinaigrette and feta crumbles. If you're looking for something to cut through all of the meat, this sweet and tangy tomato salad is a perfect choice.<br />
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<b>Crispy Shrimp</b> with sweet Thai chili peppers and garlic aioli. Of all the appetizers, this dish was my favorite (and there was some stiff competition!). The shrimp is super flavorful with a slow burn from the chili peppers - it also manages to stay crispy, as the aioli is on the lighter side.<br />
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After plowing our way through our appetizers, our server highly recommended sampling the <b>Iced Alaskan King Crab Legs</b> before moving on to our steaks. I'm so glad he did because these crab legs were some of the best I've had in Chicago! Even if you're not a steak eater, Steak 48 is worth checking out for its excellent raw bar options.<br />
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Hands down, this <b>Domestic Waygu Filet </b>with Black Truffle Sautéed Maine Lobster was one of the best steaks I've ever had! The perfectly cooked steak was super juicy and tender and the addition of the black truffle lobster took it to another flavor level. The team at Steak 48 takes their steaks very seriously - the butcher cuts the wet-aged steaks daily in the special master butcher's quarters, designed to ensure the utmost freshness. We all ordered variations of the same steak and everyone agreed that the flavors and presentations were perfectly executed.<br />
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<b>Domestic Waygu Filet </b>with Main Lobster tail<br />
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<b>Domestic Waygu Filet </b>Oscar style<br />
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<b>Creamy Mac & Cheese</b> with Provel, Parmesan, and Tillamook cheddar. Out of the entire menu, I think the side dishes are the hardest to whittle down, as there are 17 options and they all sound utterly delicious (you could easily make a meal out of the sides alone!). We ended up sampling 5 of their options; while we each had our favorites, we all agreed that each one was a winner. Out of the ones we tried, I highly recommend at least ordering the mac & cheese (it's so creamy and gooey) and the <b>Corn Créme Brûlée </b>(it's something you don't see on many menus).<br />
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<b>Roasted Sweet Potatoes </b>with a bourbon torched marshmallow topping<br />
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<b>Chef Brian's Au Gratin Potatoes</b> with gouda and mozzarella<br />
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<b>Corn Créme Brûlée</b><br />
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By the time we got to the desserts, we were ready to burst, but we just couldn't pass up a few more bites. The <b>Beignet Tree </b>with Nutella ganache and vanilla sauce is obviously the showstopper dessert in terms of presentation, but it's not just a pretty face. The fried dough is light and fluffy with enough powdered sugar to give it a nice amount of sweetness (and not leave you covered in it) - you can eat the beignets on their own, but I recommend not skipping over the rich and flavorful sauces.<br />
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<b>Cookies & Cream Popcorn Sundae </b>with hot fudge, vanilla gelato, and cookies & cream popcorn. I have to admit that I am a sucker for desserts that incorporate popcorn (especially when they also involve ice cream), so I immediately gravitated toward this. It's one luscious and indulgent sundae that is especially texturally pleasing, thanks to the rich and creamy gelato paired with the crunchy glazed popcorn.<br />
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<b>Ultimate Warm Vanilla Carmel Cake </b>with vanilla gelato and housemade praline pecans. Out of all of the desserts we tried (all of which were amazing!), this was my absolute favorite. The moist cake, the cool creamy gelato, the addictive crunchy pecans, the fresh whipped cream... it's truly a masterpiece. If you order no other desserts (and even if you think you don't have room), get this cake. You won't be disappointed!<br />
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Needless to say, we absolutely loved our meal at Steak 48. Entering the Chicago steakhouse scene is a bold move, as there is no shortage of excellent options, but this restaurant manages to stand out amongst the established favorites. Given the size of their menu, everyone in your party will find something they love (even the non-meat eater in our group raved about his meal). Highly, highly recommended!<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://www.steak48.com/steakhouses/chicago/">Steak 48</a>: 615 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL. </b>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-23699835010555210062019-07-23T09:07:00.008-05:002021-06-27T18:55:33.335-05:00Recent Foodie FindsHappy Tuesday! I hope everyone is having a fantastic summer. Can you believe we're already heading toward the end of July?! It feels like only a few short weeks ago, I was staring down a seemingly never-ending pile of spring portfolios, special assessment projects, and final grades... and now I'm already starting to think about my fall classes (but no, I haven't actually moved beyond the thinking phase, as I'm still firmly settled into vacation mode!).<br />
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Speaking of vacation mode, I didn't intentionally take a vacation from the blog, but life got a bit overwhelming during the spring, as it was the final semester of my graduate program (yay!). I am officially done with my second master's degree and am ready to move on to my doctoral program next year (I decided to defer it, as I really need a break from juggling my simultaneous professor and full-time student roles). I have to admit that I am looking forward to not spending every weekend in homework mode (although the grading will still be there... grading never ever ends!).<br />
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Now that I've finally recovered from the mental stress of last semester, it's time to get down to the most important business of all: food! If you follow me on Instagram, you know that along with eating my way through the city and 'burbs, I also managed to fit in two major trips over the last few months. Over spring break, Diana and I made our way down to Nashville for a week and fell in love with that city. The food, the culture, the people, the cuteness - we both absolutely loved it! And just a few weeks ago, Mario and I took a cruise to the Caribbean, where I had some of the best seafood of my life (and yes, I also drank my weight in fruity cocktails). I had such a fantastic time on both trips, and I can't wait to share all of my travel foodie finds with you.<br />
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In the meantime, here's a bit of what I've been up to over the last few months (follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chicagofoodiegirl/">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chicagofoodiegirl">Facebook</a> for even more)...<br />
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Diana and I made our way out to Barrington to check out <a href="https://www.southernbellespancakes.com/">Southern Belles Pancake House</a>, where I ended up falling hard for their fantastic sandwich <b>The Gobbler</b>: smoked turkey, cranberry pecan pesto, Granny Smith apples, and arugula on fresh-baked bread. Yes, Southern Belles specializes in pancakes, and yes, they are delicious (the CinnaBomb pancakes are especially good), but this sandwich was the showstopper for me, thanks to the Thanksgiving-esque flavor combination, and the fact that it's texturally interesting, which really makes it fun to eat.<br />
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Speaking of awesome suburban spots, if you're into BIG and flavorful smoked meats, <a href="https://www.rackhousetavern.com/">Rack House Kitchen & Tavern</a> in Arlington Heights is definitely a spot that should be on your list! The <b>BAM</b> is completely ridiculous and completely awesome (emphasis on the awesome!). This sharable signature Bloody Mary is made with a liter of <a href="http://twobrothersbrewing.com/">Two Brothers Brewing Company</a> vodka and topped with smoked wings, andouille sausage, pulled pork, brisket sliders, beer-battered fried shrimp, cheese, Nutella brownies, fresh yeast donuts, smoked ribs, spicy Nashville hot chicken tenders, and fried pockets. It's also served with two pints of beer! 😵<br />
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If you have room after making your way through all of the meats and vodka, it's also work checking out Rack House's super tasty <b>Hangover Sandwich </b>with hickory-smoked brisket, fried egg, Merkt's cheddar, chipotle mayo, arugula, tomato, onion, and pickles piled high on a toasted pretzel bun. This mammoth sandwich may look a bit overwhelming, but it's incredibly balanced with the smokey and slightly fruity moist brisket and sharp cheese.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADo7v_PLJ32GOnD1f_-XsYlJWDnG8IZUtt9vQrajGqNQ_KHUbuDDUkzt0szAlwQ7rifqYtAFQBVeKm_3EHHwSIBCHrB_-ew1xEw4cQwk5vfnD7Xfo80rWfTqNUdF8sztUOthWBHOW5_6v/s1600/Pono_Ono.JPG" style="clear: left; display: inline; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADo7v_PLJ32GOnD1f_-XsYlJWDnG8IZUtt9vQrajGqNQ_KHUbuDDUkzt0szAlwQ7rifqYtAFQBVeKm_3EHHwSIBCHrB_-ew1xEw4cQwk5vfnD7Xfo80rWfTqNUdF8sztUOthWBHOW5_6v/s1600/Pono_Ono.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADo7v_PLJ32GOnD1f_-XsYlJWDnG8IZUtt9vQrajGqNQ_KHUbuDDUkzt0szAlwQ7rifqYtAFQBVeKm_3EHHwSIBCHrB_-ew1xEw4cQwk5vfnD7Xfo80rWfTqNUdF8sztUOthWBHOW5_6v/s1600/Pono_Ono.JPG"></a><br />
After years with barely any choices for poké in the Midwest, the craze has taken over the city and suburbs; one of the newest ones to join the lineup is <a href="https://ponoonopoke.com/">Pono Ono Poké </a>in Evanston. Pono Ono differs from most of the other options, as they eliminated the BYO model used in most other restaurants in the area to focus on more authentic Hawaiian ingredients and flavors. While the bowls are slightly more expensive than other options, the quality of the fish and the interesting flavor combinations really make this place stand out from the rest. My current favorite is their signature <b>Spicy Tuna Bowl </b>with avocado, tobiko, cucumber, sweet onion, and chili mayo.<br />
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Speaking of standouts, the <b>Motor City Derby</b> pizza with sausage, spinach, chevre, tomato, and chili roasted garlic from <a href="https://www.longacrechicago.com/">Longacre</a> is so ridiculously good, I really don't know how I ever lived without it! Okay, I'm being a wee bit dramatic, but seriously, this is some damn good pizza. While Neapolitan and tavern-style pizzas are my favorites, Detroit-style isn't far behind. If you've never had this type of pizza before, Longacre is definitely a fantastic place to dive in, as it's the most authentic I've had outside of Michigan.<br />
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One of the most frequent questions I get on Instagram has to do with which brunch buffets are actually worth the money. I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of most of the buffet options here, as they're so underwhelming, but <a href="https://www.mapleandash.com/">Maple & Ash</a> is one of the few that manages to buck the trend. Their Sunday brunch includes a variety of stations (the <b>hand-carved filet</b> station is always a favorite), along with several dishes that are served tableside (the <b>fire-roasted seafood tower</b> is fantastic!). Bonus: Maple & Ash is also a gorgeous restaurant with prime people-watching.<br />
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I've also recently gotten tons of questions about brunch spots on the <a href="https://www.chicagoriverwalk.us/">Riverwalk</a>. While there are so many fab new restaurants down there, I always highly recommend checking out the Blues & Brunch at <a href="https://www.riverroastchicago.com/#_home">River Roast</a> (from James Beard winner and Chicago favorite Tony Mantuano). If you're firmly on Team AC, you can snag a seat by the windows and enjoy the view of the river while enjoying the indoor performance. If you're all about that summer al fresco life, you can sit right on the river on their private patio. One of my longtime favorites from their brunch menu is the <b>Fried Chicken Sandwich</b> with Sriracha pickles, spicy remoulade, and butter lettuce on brioche.<br />
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If you're like me and always on the lookout for fun twists on mac and cheese, you definitely need to stop by <a href="https://www.madsocialchicago.com/">Mad Social</a> for their <b>Havarti Mac and Cheese</b> with sweet corn, wild mushrooms, crispy brussels sprouts, and a butter crumb crust. I really cannot say enough good things about this dish - it's creamy, cheesy, gooey, crunchy, savory, and so satisfying!<br />
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I have to admit that I tend to avoid the Michigan Ave. dinner scene (especially during the summer, as there are so many tourists), but I recently made my way down to <a href="http://mjshchicago.com/">Michael Jordan's Steakhouse</a> to check out their unique cuts offerings in honor of National Steakhouse Month. While the restaurant does pay homage to MJ through its decor and various menu items (e.g. the 23-layer cake), the food itself does not rest on the laurels of Michael's Jordan's alone. I was impressed by the ambiance, consistent service, and food, especially this perfectly done <b>45-Day-Dry-Aged Tomahawk. </b><br />
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The aforementioned <b>23-Layer Chocolate Cake</b> from Michael Jordan's Steakhouse. This bad boy is chocolate, chocolate, and even more chocolate (and yes, we counted to make sure there were exactly 23 layers!).<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6eEAnZ_1TjvQ5Qlip1y0o_H_1Qsl902oBHl6bkYtTiCAcrUHoUfZYUY3uULRti12Tdi3d5_taSEKqNlHaK3mQuLOEzSlrFrNxGijNqbXlaOzOkD5q0ZB_bd1iosPpBaxv_afq5JjyabWW/s2048/Pizzaria_Bebu.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6eEAnZ_1TjvQ5Qlip1y0o_H_1Qsl902oBHl6bkYtTiCAcrUHoUfZYUY3uULRti12Tdi3d5_taSEKqNlHaK3mQuLOEzSlrFrNxGijNqbXlaOzOkD5q0ZB_bd1iosPpBaxv_afq5JjyabWW/s16000/Pizzaria_Bebu.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>Ever since <a href="http://www.sedbona.com/" target="_blank">Ashley</a> introduced me to <a href="https://bebu.pizza/" target="_blank">Pizzeria Bebu</a> last fall, I've been thinking about it (and eating it!) an absurd amount. Its super thin crispy crust, fresh ingredients, and inventive flavor combinations made it love at first bite for me! You really can't go wrong with any of their pies (even the simple pepperoni is a standout), but hands down, the <b>Ode to Rubirosa</b> (vodka sauce, nutless pesto, fresh mozzarella) is the absolute best.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNLZEncUOH6iDn0oCK7dkflYWikUN5gA5SOE6XtV1wTGdOonun483giuPu9qNAOXcU8trl_04RjMQfEmPwOB99nMVpF5LnIddVKraNFkhDvNeXFzkTtaKJkRc8BpQ3q0tgc7MJwBldIdF4/s2048/bodega_imports.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNLZEncUOH6iDn0oCK7dkflYWikUN5gA5SOE6XtV1wTGdOonun483giuPu9qNAOXcU8trl_04RjMQfEmPwOB99nMVpF5LnIddVKraNFkhDvNeXFzkTtaKJkRc8BpQ3q0tgc7MJwBldIdF4/s16000/bodega_imports.jpg" /></a></div><div>How sexy is the <b>Mexican Hot Chocolate</b> topped with a gingerbread churro, Cookie Crisp, gold marshmallows, and gold stardust glitter from La Bodega del Barrio?! While this was a seasonal offering, all of their drinks are gorgeous, indulgent, and delicious AF!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOKYqcdjD_oOxNkQsb7loC-qa4xIFCbqb-w4dxSmsQ0a9NTHBXU4ZrlLTiizLO8umhcwAwahS12b065UgN4uOa-IoF-YuKeicb8pyarLYdI0yjmIlSyQNYmA_ArZuhYlcVC64g99WOf-75/s2048/Bad_Hunter.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOKYqcdjD_oOxNkQsb7loC-qa4xIFCbqb-w4dxSmsQ0a9NTHBXU4ZrlLTiizLO8umhcwAwahS12b065UgN4uOa-IoF-YuKeicb8pyarLYdI0yjmIlSyQNYmA_ArZuhYlcVC64g99WOf-75/s16000/Bad_Hunter.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>Widely known for having some of the best vegetarian and vegan dishes in the city, the recently reopened <a href="https://badhunter.com/" target="_blank">Bad Hunter</a> is knocking it out of the park with their new brunch service! The standouts include the <b>Chicken Friend Hen-of-the-Woods Mushrooms</b> and the <b>Ramp Pesto Pinwheel</b>. For carnivores, the <b>'Nduja Salumi Toast </b>with kimchi slaw and chili oil is a must-order!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQ5UrH1eNkF5RoXHUQ9ZX-yx4tI2KPXzq8c9QMHGBzrYKe5JdS6zQNikqXOXQ8JvN0sQ7XVLawy0hV7ItU7YmqC8DRrs_7NhA9p27Msmk_fsO8slpoj-Tzm3kVcjZ6UCSZg2Yfo77wh9V/s2048/brickhouse.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQ5UrH1eNkF5RoXHUQ9ZX-yx4tI2KPXzq8c9QMHGBzrYKe5JdS6zQNikqXOXQ8JvN0sQ7XVLawy0hV7ItU7YmqC8DRrs_7NhA9p27Msmk_fsO8slpoj-Tzm3kVcjZ6UCSZg2Yfo77wh9V/s16000/brickhouse.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>If you're in the mood for an incredibly indulgent and super chocolatey and boozy dessert, you must stop by <a href="https://www.brickhousetavernchi.com/" target="_blank">Brickhouse Tavern</a> (next to Wrigley Field at Gallagher Way) for the <b>Old Fashioned Cake Shake</b>. When you want to go all-in with dessert, this cake shake is definitely an utterly delicious way to do it! </div><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGe9bH8kbFq8Eta3yV9nak0RhzKKo7zXqrY9OdQp-L46WgRLWRIwBEP2-6Pi-pIT026yWwBAxropAti0h7LO0M8759h_iAR9w7JtHy1LzQTVX9gRkU5QhcY3zODlGjmRGocg73T_8EpbJ9/s1600/SMB.jpg"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGe9bH8kbFq8Eta3yV9nak0RhzKKo7zXqrY9OdQp-L46WgRLWRIwBEP2-6Pi-pIT026yWwBAxropAti0h7LO0M8759h_iAR9w7JtHy1LzQTVX9gRkU5QhcY3zODlGjmRGocg73T_8EpbJ9/s1600/SMB.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGe9bH8kbFq8Eta3yV9nak0RhzKKo7zXqrY9OdQp-L46WgRLWRIwBEP2-6Pi-pIT026yWwBAxropAti0h7LO0M8759h_iAR9w7JtHy1LzQTVX9gRkU5QhcY3zODlGjmRGocg73T_8EpbJ9/s1600/SMB.jpg" /></a><br />
Finally, <a href="https://sweetmandybs.com/">Sweet Mandy B's</a> really needs no introduction, as it has been one of the most popular bakeries in Chicago since 2002. However, if you've never been there before, put it on your ist immediately - everything there is super cutesy, nostalgic, and oh-so-sweet! My all-time favorite treats from SMB's are their super buttery <b>Iced Sugar Cookies</b> loaded with frosting and sprinkles.<br />
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<b>ETA: Longacre, Rack House, La Bodega del Barrio,</b> <b>and Bad Hunter have closed.</b></div><div>
<br /></div>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-47853202297330054892019-05-08T09:40:00.000-05:002020-08-23T16:20:58.360-05:00Travel Eats: Morelia en Boca<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After my very <a href="http://www.chicagofoodiegirl.com/2017/03/mexico-memories-resort_20.html">first</a> <a href="http://www.chicagofoodiegirl.com/2017/03/mexico-memories-food.html">visit</a> to Mexico back in 2017, I caught the travel bug for that beautiful country. As you may remember, the experience I had in Riviera Maya was absolutely amazing; however, it was limited in the sense that it was just a tiny taste of Mexican culture, as seen through a luxurious all-inclusive resort... but it was definitely enough to pique my interest. That first taste of Mexico set me down the path to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17923633222189212/?hl=en">a return trip in 2018</a> in which I ended up discovering my love for the gorgeous city of <a href="https://www.visitmexico.com/en/main-destinations/michoacan/morelia">Morelia</a>, a place that quickly earned a spot on my list of favorite cities in the world!<br />
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Located in the <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">c</span>entral part of the state of Michoacán in central Mexico, the capital city of Morelia is one of the oldest and most culturally rich areas in the country (as well as a designated UNESCO World Heritage site). Founded in 1541, the city was originally a result of Spanish invasion/colonialism, but it eventually grew into one of the most important centers of knowledge as the birthplace of the Mexican independence movement. These days, Morelia is renowned as a city of significant history, art, distinctive architecture... and just as importantly, amazing food! Thanks to the intermixing of northern and southern cuisines, the city is home to some of the most diverse food in all of Mexico. One of the best places to get a taste of everything from Michoacán’s traditional cuisine to the inventive flavors and techniques being used in modern Mexican cooking is the annual <a href="http://festivalmoreliaenboca.com/wordpress/">Morelia en Boca</a> festival.<br />
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For those of you familiar with Chicago Gourmet, the concept of Morelia en Boca is similar: the festival brings together food and wine lovers for three days of samples, lectures, seminars, and cooking demos held in the <a href="http://www.ccclavijero.mx/">Centro Cultural Clavijero</a> (The House of Culture) in the heart of Morelia's historical center. The lovely part about MEB is that it not only celebrates the popular chefs and merchants that make up the modern culinary scene in Mexico, it also pays tribute to the customs surrounding traditional home cooks, street food, and markets, especially in terms of understanding how these practices traditions are an integral part of history, as well as daily life.<br />
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Through demonstrations of cooking methods and tastings (the best part!), attendees are able to experience both traditional foods consumed by many generations, as well as avant-garde cuisine from renowned chefs. As much as <a href="http://www.sedbona.com/">Ashley</a> and I enjoyed all aspects of the festival, we especially loved meeting the array of traditional cooks who represent the different regions of the state and hearing their stories of the dishes that had been passed down from generation to generation.<br />
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Chef Daniel Aguilar of <a href="http://changorestaurante.com/">Chango</a> (one of the best restaurants in Morelia!) helping us learn the traditional art of blue corn tortillas.<br />
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Along with plenty of food, MEB also includes a diverse and vast selection of wines, beers, and locally produced mezcals and tequila. I had always thought that I didn't like mezcal, but between a visit to the fantastic <a href="https://tatamezcaleria.com/">Tata Mezcaleria</a> and many (many, many!) tastings at MEB, I realized it was that I just wasn't drinking the right mezcal, as they greatly differ depending on age, type of plant, and flavoring.<br />
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Morelia en Boca is really a special festival, as more than any others I've been to, it really strives to acknowledge and celebrate all aspects of the culinary arts. Whether you're looking for an extended vacation or just a quick weekend getaway for some really fantastic food, Morelia absolutely should be on your radar! This year's festival takes place May 17-19, so there is definitely still time to plan a visit (especially considering you can get relatively inexpensive direct flights from Chicago via <a href="https://www.volaris.com/">Volaris</a>).</div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-20016905143778785892019-03-04T15:30:00.000-06:002020-08-23T16:21:17.507-05:00Travel Guide: The Edgewater in Madison, WI <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzP9U-WPoWokVSaoJlaG7hpEHxUe0zuv4znVuUa_nEil2gYmTjdAYeIlqGwQLb8xpvYPKid3namPFMaw6FlblUodp2nxsabtaVrl0ZxGNpN9RTj0PUxjbwlGOi3z2voBN5vnJcEG0N7HGR/s1600/IMG_8991.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzP9U-WPoWokVSaoJlaG7hpEHxUe0zuv4znVuUa_nEil2gYmTjdAYeIlqGwQLb8xpvYPKid3namPFMaw6FlblUodp2nxsabtaVrl0ZxGNpN9RTj0PUxjbwlGOi3z2voBN5vnJcEG0N7HGR/s1600/IMG_8991.JPG" /></a><br />
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I spent most of my free time during my senior year of college (oh so many years ago) exploring everything that <a href="https://www.instagram.com/visitmadison/">Madison, WI</a> had to offer. I went to a small school about an hour outside of the city and while I got a fantastic education and really loved so many things about the environment, it wasn't exactly the epicenter of culture. Comparatively, Madison had a funky vibe and the diversity I craved - I loved it so much that I thought I might even move there post-college. While I ultimately ended up in Chicago, as it was a better fit personally and professionally, Madison is still one of those places that hold a special place in my heart.<br />
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All these years later, I still try to visit Madison at least once a year: fall trips involve hours spent outdoors leisurely perusing every stand at the most amazing <a href="https://dcfm.org/">farmers market</a>, summer and spring visits focus on exploring all of the newest restaurants and shops, and winter weekend visits are spent decompressing at boutique hotels complete with plenty of roaring fireplaces, stunning lake views, and decadent comfort food options. Recently, at the end of a particularly stressful stretch at work for both of us, Mario and I packed our warmest sweaters and headed up to Madison for one of those long winter weekends that involve no plans other than relaxing; as we discovered during this trip, hands down, <a href="https://www.theedgewater.com/">The Edgewater</a> is absolutely the best place in the city to do just so. After spending years hotel-hopping, I am 100% a convert to this fantastic spot and honestly cannot see myself choosing to stay anywhere else again!<br />
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After spending the most of the afternoon bopping around the downtown area with no major plans other than to nosh our way through the lunch menu at <a href="https://www.grazemadison.com/">one my favorite Madison restaurants</a>, Mario and I finally checked into The Edgewater to get down to the serious business of relaxing and eating. Before making our way to dinner at <a href="https://www.theedgewater.com/dining-at-the-edgewater/the-statehouse/">The Statehouse</a>, we spent a little time exploring the property (we had to work off that lunch in order to make room for the next meal!) and hanging out on the plaza by the ice rink. While the hotel hosts a variety of events and activities on the plaza throughout the year, I have to say that I can’t imagine it being any prettier than during the winter with the twinkly lights around the ice rink and the sunset over Lake Mendota!<br />
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Post-walk and warmup session by the fire, we headed down to <a href="https://www.theedgewater.com/dining-at-the-edgewater/the-statehouse/">The Statehouse</a>, their signature restaurant and one of the five dining options at the hotel. Of course, we had to kick off our meal with the unofficial Wisconsin state cocktail, the <b>Brandy Old Fashioned</b> (my favorite version!). </div>
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<b>Venison Carpaccio:</b> juniper and pink peppercorn loin seared rare and topped with apple-cranberry relish. As a born and raised Midwesterner, I am quite familiar with venison; however, I have to say that it's not usually my favorite, as it tend to be a bit too gamey. This version totally blew me away! It was such a perfect combination of sweet, tart, and meaty. I honestly expected to push the dish over to Mario's side of the table after a bite or two, but we actually ended up fighting over the last few pieces.<br />
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<b>Quinoa and Kale Salad</b> with butternut squash, apple, Marcona almonds, dried cherries, shaved sheep's milk cheese, and cider vinaigrette. This was another dish that took me by surprise, as I'm not usually overly impressed with kale salads (I went on a kale binge for a few years and totally burnt out on it), but everything really worked so perfectly together. Mario declared it to be the best salad he'd ever had... we both enjoyed it so much that we even ordered it again as part of our room service dinner the next evening!<br />
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<b>Bacon Wrapped Scallops</b> with sweet potato puree and a petite herb salad. While Mario went the traditional steak and potatoes route, I chose the winter-appropriate scallops and sweet potatoes, which ended up being a fantastic decision. As I've mentioned before, anyone who knows me knows it's more likely than not that if I see scallops on a menu, I will order them. Needless to say, I've eaten a lot of scallops in my life and I've gotten to the point in which I am super picky about the quality and preparation. The scallops were beautifully done and the flavors reminded me of what I love about fall/winter vegetables.<br />
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Even though we were stuffed, we couldn't leave without sampling the highly recommended <b>Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet</b>. I mean, how can you go wrong with this deliciousness?!<br />
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As we discovered the next morning, one of the best parts of waking up at The Edgewater was the phenomenal view of Lake Mendota from our bed! Even though the hotel is within walking distance of the downtown area, the stunning views make it feel like you’re completely removed from the city. To me, this is really what sets it apart from some of the other boutique hotels in the area.<br />
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After a leisurely morning in our room (it was so cozy and pretty!), we finally headed back down to The Statehouse for breakfast. We kicked off our meal with this <b>Lobster Benedict</b>, which was absolutely stuffed with buttery lobster meat.<br />
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We also tackled the hearty and delicious <b>Breakfast Sandwich</b> with egg, sausage, and grilled tomatoes on a <a href="https://stellasofmadison.com/">Stella's Cheese Bread</a> bun. If you've never had this local speciality bread with pockets of cheese throughout, you are absolutely missing out!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStGBq6SGY4JqH3TVWQCRh1QrX4-h3WnOTeWOyjIWPpdcW8ahbO0eyy-s2i40QEmWzVcSZk28XZRtgmGRTLJfy3boLfYqqS1VVRE4BDl7DBOAyszezEQ6d31rPp6S0TbSZtoVOy2r2GHc2/s1600/IMG_8957.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStGBq6SGY4JqH3TVWQCRh1QrX4-h3WnOTeWOyjIWPpdcW8ahbO0eyy-s2i40QEmWzVcSZk28XZRtgmGRTLJfy3boLfYqqS1VVRE4BDl7DBOAyszezEQ6d31rPp6S0TbSZtoVOy2r2GHc2/s1600/IMG_8957.JPG" /></a></div>
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As our goal for the weekend was to relax (and eat, obviously!), Mario headed up to the room for a post-breakfast nap while I took a quick walk along the lake and then set out to find the coziest spots on the property. After grabbing some coffee, I settled into into one of their comfy chairs with a good book and sunlight streaming down on my face (it was so cozy I almost forgot the temps were plunging to below zero!). Eventually, I made my way back to my favorite fireplace for a little more reading and a lot of people watching. It’s rare than when I go somewhere I just sit back and relax, but you can’t help but do so at the Edgewater. It’s so comfy and chill - and everyone is so friendly!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VYfd9GeRT6CWWf7NuVwx-Ek1poSbMBhEFFlJPiitzL7q0XTdeZDTTFiOvSSen9RNQzJLlep7WYN6hom4GIezZO6M6ziJ0Ox__HXUnt_QiSQkRCgpMwQxjoxboM7gj6gGYAUy5W6TgsB_/s1600/IMG_9023.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VYfd9GeRT6CWWf7NuVwx-Ek1poSbMBhEFFlJPiitzL7q0XTdeZDTTFiOvSSen9RNQzJLlep7WYN6hom4GIezZO6M6ziJ0Ox__HXUnt_QiSQkRCgpMwQxjoxboM7gj6gGYAUy5W6TgsB_/s1600/IMG_9023.JPG" /></a>Our only set plan for the day involved attending a special late afternoon<b> Holiday Tea Service</b> at The Statehouse. As you all know by now, I'm huge fan of tea service and I was so excited to introduce Mario to one of my favorite rituals. Although it was freezing outside, the restaurant was warm and comfy with the same beautiful views of the lake as we had from our room. We even saw a massive bald eagle swoop by and settle into a nearby tree. It really couldn't have been a more perfect winter setting!<br />
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Every good celebratory tea service begins with glasses of bubbly!<br />
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The tea service included over ten options from Wisconsin-based <a href="https://www.rishi-tea.com/">Rishi Tea</a>, ranging from classic flavors to several wintery favorites. We ended up sampling four of their teas and both agreed the refreshing and light <b>Strawberry Tusli </b>white tea with hints of strawberries, rosehips, and basil was the clear favorite.<br />
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Of course, you can't have afternoon tea service without a tray of assorted sandwiches and treats. Mario's favorite was the <b>House-Smoked Salmon </b>with crème fraiche and asparagus, while I fell hard for the <b>Golden Beet</b> sandwiches with chèvre and tomato jam.<br />
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The sweets included a variety of <b>macarons, almond financiers, fruit tartlets, and currant scones with clotted cream </b>(I'm a sucker for anything served with clotted cream!). It was such a wonderful service and I'm so glad Mario got to experience it with me; at the end of our weekend, he proclaimed it to be one of the highlights of the trip!<br />
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The next morning we said goodbye to our lovely lake view and ordered room service from The Statehouse before hitting the road. The <b>Smoked Salmon Plate </b>with bagel chips, eggs, onions, tomatoes, and capers was the perfect way to transition back into the real world after such an indulgent weekend.<br />
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There are so many things I love about Madison and The Edgewater is most definitely near the top of the list! If you're looking for a hotel that offers a welcoming space, extremely comfortable beds, a full menu of spa services, stunning lake views, and delicious food options, then you absolutely should consider <b><a href="https://www.theedgewater.com/">The Edgewater</a></b> for your next stay: <b>1001 Wisconsin Place, Madison, WI. </b>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-45602959238628906612019-01-21T17:56:00.001-06:002020-08-23T16:21:33.443-05:00Chicago Eats: Monnie Burke's <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can't even begin to tell you how many times over the years people have asked me what I do with all of my free time during my semester break. Well, throwing out the actual work part (that's the dirty secret of being in academia - you're never <i>truly</i> off, as the next semester is always lurking) and the holiday hoopla, I really spend most of my winter break meeting up with all of my friends and eating all the delicious foods. It's the time of year in which I crave cozy afternoons with friends filled with comfort foods, laughter, and really good booze. While my summer breaks are mostly filled with major writing/teaching projects and travel plans, winter breaks are all about unwinding and enjoying myself. As I discovered a few weeks ago, the beautiful <a href="https://www.monnieburkes.com/">Monnie Burke's </a>in Pilsen is the perfect place to do just so.<br />
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Open since last spring, co-owners Margi Abu-Taleb and Anan Abu-Taleb (of the fantastic <a href="https://www.mayadelsol.com/">Maya Del Sol</a> in Oak Park) named the restaurant after Margi's late aunt, a social worker and activist involved in Cesar Chavez’s 1960s farm worker movement. The couple had her fun-loving and adventurous spirit in mind when they designed this modern and unpretentious spot focused on new American/seasonal cuisine. <a href="http://www.bunnyandbrandy.com/">Jess</a> and I stopped by for a late brunch on a cold Saturday afternoon and immediately fell in love with the space - the warm woods and twinkly lights made it super inviting and just a glimpse of their massive patio (replete with cute umbrella-topped tables and a gas-powered fire pit) got us super excited for the warmer months!<br />
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We kicked off our brunch with the <b>Fate Intervenes</b> (Fonseca bin 27 port, sotol, Suze, earl grey & lemon) and the <b>Little Village Paloma</b> (Lunazul tequila, carciofo, grapefruit & maqui berry).<br />
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I was enjoying my perfectly done Paloma when the manager brought out a sample of the <b>Frozen Chicha Morada</b> (tequila, pisco, purple corn, fall spice & citrus) that he insisted we must try. Holy YES!! I fell head over heels for this amazing cocktail - all others immediately fell by the wayside. I happily slurped my way through one in about 10 minutes and seriously contemplated a second and a third (too bad I was driving 😭). As Jess said, this cocktail tastes like the best parts of fall in a glass!<br />
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As I've mentioned before, there's really nothing better on a cold day than a bowl of steamy mussels and these <b>Red Thai Curry Mussels</b> with beech mushrooms and grilled focaccia are especially fantastic. We devoured every perfectly done mussel and then soaked up every last drop of the super flavorful broth. While it's listed as an appetizer, I will absolutely order this amazing dish as my entrée the next time I'm there!<br />
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Just as I always say yes to mussels, I will never turn down a <b>Soft Pretzel</b>, especially when it's served with smoked gouda and truffle fondue. Their pretzels are so soft and buttery with just the right amount of salt... and really, the fondue is just 🤤🤤🤤.<br />
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Luckily, we just so happened to have stopped by on a day in which they were serving their special off-menu <b>Snake River Farms Waygu Carpaccio</b> with Parmesan crisps. This paper-thin tender beef has a pure meaty flavor and the delicate and crunchy Parmesan bites give it an interesting textural contrast. If this is available when you visit, definitely add it to your order!<br />
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While I'm generally not a fan of cauliflower (it's one of those veggies I can take or leave), Jess loves it and always forces me to try new versions. While I'm still not completely sold, this <b>Roasted Cauliflower</b> with Marcona almonds, dates, and sherry vinaigrette is definitely some of the best I've ever had (and yes, Jess, aka the cauliflower fan, loved it!).<br />
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Seeing as we've tried so many versions of it, Jess and I both heavily judge a restaurant by its <b>Chicken & Waffles </b>- we definitely were not disappointed by Monnie Burke's interpretation! The waffles are akin to a crispy funnel cake and topped with crispy chicken, habanero honey butter, and maple syrup. We absolutely loved the addition of the habanero honey butter, as it gave the dish a bit of heat and perfectly complemented the sweet elements.<br />
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Of course, we couldn't leave without sampling their <b>Cheeseburger</b> with Butterkase cheese, bacon, and grilled red onions. As a former Wisconsinite, I have a serious soft spot for Butterkase (a semi-soft creamy butter cheese popular in WI), so this burger made me very, very happy.<br />
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If you're looking for a welcoming atmosphere, fantastic food, and one of the best cocktails in the city, you definitely need to make your way over to Pilsen to check out Monnie Burke's. Bonus: it's right down the street from Thalia Hall, so it's a perfect pre/post-show spot!<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://www.monnieburkes.com/">Monnie Burke's</a>: 1163 W. 18th St., Chicago, IL. </b><br />
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<b>ETA: This restaurant has closed.</b></div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-61573765838481123632019-01-16T19:25:00.000-06:002020-08-23T16:21:59.924-05:00Chicago Eats: Taureaux Tavern <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While I haven't mentioned it much over here (I definitely need to rectify that soon!), <a href="http://www.cochonvolantchicago.com/">Cochon Volant Brasserie</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #3b3b3b; font-family: "whitney a" , "whitney b" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"> </span>has been one of my favorite restaurants in the Loop practically since the day it opened in 2015. Between the charming space reminiscent of a Parisienne cafe and the perfectly executed dishes, it's such a great spot for everything from a leisurely breakfast with friends to an afternoon coffee break to a mouthwatering pre-theatre dinner. So, it should come as no surprise that as soon as I heard the owners of Cochon Volant were opening another French restaurant, <a href="http://www.taureauxtavern.com/">Taureaux Tavern</a>, I immediately added it to my must-try list.<br />
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Tucked into the Financial District, the massive two-story restaurant offers diners an elevated but still inviting environment with multiple areas of service, including a year-round covered patio (a rarity in that area!), and a gorgeous decor with cute nods to the district. With Chef Mike Sherrin (formerly of Blackbird) at the helm, Taureaux Tavern offers a variety of French-inspired fare, ranging from classic dishes such as escargot and steak frites to lighter options such as smoked whitefish salad.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/gigibaith/">Gigi</a> and stopped by for a Friday lunch and immediately fell in love with the beautiful light-filled dining room, plush suede booths, and sleek bar complete with bankers lamps and a mirrored wall reflecting the train tracks. </div>
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We kicked off our lunch with a round of cocktails (of course!); Gigi stuck with her favorite combination of <b>Baileys Irish Cream and Kahlua</b>...<br />
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...while I chose the classic <b>French 75</b>, made with gin, Champagne, lemon juice, and sugar.</div>
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<b>Lobster Thermidor Bites:</b> butter poached baby lobster in sherry wine sauce with spinach and lemon. We started with what is quite possibly the richest dish on the menu, as well as one of the most delicious! It's also a perfect example of Chef Sherrin's ability to put his own spin on classic French dishes; while the sauce has the same creamy and velvety taste of the original, it doesn't leave you feeling ridiculously full after only a few bites.</div>
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<b>Oxtail & Bone Marrow:</b> braised oxtail and bone marrow served with country bread. As I mentioned on Instagram, We’re only two weeks into 2019 and I’m already adding the Oxtail & Bone Marrow to my list of best dishes of the year! The braised oxtail is so satisfyingly tender and flavorful... plus, who doesn’t love bone marrow, aka meat butter?! 🤤 Quite honestly, I don't always love bone marrow (I've had some super gelatinous/goopy versions in the past), but this was superb. It was Gigi's first time ever trying bone marrow and she absolutely fell in love with this dish - so much so that she attacked the leftovers only an hour after leaving the restaurant!</div>
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<b>Mussels & Frites:</b> P.E.I. mussels with roasted garlic aioli and chili butter served with charred bread. There are few dishes I love more than mussels; it's one of my go-to winter favorites (well, I crave them year-round, but especially gravitate toward the spicier versions during the winter!). If I still worked in the Loop, I could easily see myself escaping to Taureaux almost daily during the winter for a comforting and warming bowl of mussels.<br />
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<b>Smoked Whitefish Avocado Chopped Salad:</b> house-smoked whitefish, avocado, pickled onion, cucumber, radish, and champagne vinaigrette. Speaking of dishes I could see myself eating over and over again, this smoked whitefish salad is officially my new favorite salad in the city. The crisp and refreshing champagne vinaigrette perfectly complements the delicate and moist fish and there's definitely no shortage of avocado. While you may be tempted to skip over this salad for flashier options, it is such a delight and definitely a must-order!<br />
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<b>Foie Gras</b> with apple mostarda, candied cocoa nibs, and toasted brioche. While at one time I hated foie gras (I found it far too rich and fatty tasting), I've developed a bit of a taste for it over the last few years. I'm definitely not a fanatic, but I've learned to appreciate its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth quality, especially when paired with a sweet element (my favorite way to eat it). It was Gigi's first time trying foie and I will say she wasn't entirely convinced, but I enjoyed the combination of the sweet, salty, and buttery elements.<br />
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<b>Le Patty Melt Royale:</b> 8 oz prime Angus beef topped with American & gruyere cheese, caramelized truffle onions, 1000 island dressing, and b&b pickles. We ended our meal on a high note with this decadent patty melt, also known as a lovechild of a grilled cheese sandwich and a burger. Although we were stuffed, we absolutely had to make room for a few bites of this gooey and beautifully meaty creation (if you can't tell, we totally hated it 😆). Hands down, this is the best patty melt I've had in Chicago!<br />
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If you're looking for an innovative and approachable take on French cuisine (or really just want some delicious food at a fab new spot), Taureaux Tavern absolutely should be on your list!<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="http://www.taureauxtavern.com/">Taureaux Tavern</a>: 155 W. Van Buren St., Chicago, IL. </b></div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-1059718414682633702019-01-07T18:03:00.000-06:002020-08-23T16:22:20.676-05:00Suburban Eats: Brunch at Bonefish Grill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I've mentioned several times over the last few years, I have a serious love for <a href="https://www.bonefishgrill.com/">Bonefish Grill</a>. Considering I live in a city in which the food options are plentiful (and we have some of the best chefs in the country!) there aren't many chain restaurants that I can say I actually crave/keep me coming back for more, but Bonefish is the exception. Ever since <a href="http://www.sedbona.com/">Ashley</a> introduced me to the awesomeness of Bang Bang Shrimp, I've been hooked!<br />
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Recently, Bonefish introduced a new weekend brunch menu focusing on classic brunch dishes with a twist paired with endless bubbles options. Due to his ever-changing work schedule, it's rare that Mario (another Bonefish super fan!) can join me for weekend brunch, but as soon as I mentioned the new menu to him, he managed to make some scheduling magic happen... it's amazing what a little Bang Bang Shrimp motivation can do, right?! 😉<br />
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We kicked off our brunch with a round of cocktails (as every brunch should begin!). Mario opted for the endless bubbles (Bellinis or mimosas) option, while I chose one of their new brunch drinks: the <b>Cucumber Spa Spritz </b>with Ketel One Botanical Cucumber and Mint vodka, St. Germain, house-made sour, and fresh cucumber topped with soda.<br />
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After wolfing down half a loaf of bread (their Signature Artisan Bread with pesto dipping oil is so addictive!), we started with the super highly recommended <b>The Cure</b>: Old Bay seasoned fries layered with Mozzarella cheese sauce, roasted shrimp, and red gravy finished with crispy bacon and green onions. What is there to say about this other than it's completely awesome?! It's a mess of cheese and fries and sauce and shrimp... not only is it delicious, but also it's perfect for soaking up last night's hangover!<br />
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We also split the <b>Saucy Shrimp & Grits</b>: tender shrimp sautéed with sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives in a lime-tomato garlic sauce served over goat cheese infused grits, finished with crumbled Feta. This was one of the dishes we were both most looking forward to trying - it definitely did not disappoint! I know that cheese and fish is a big no-no to a lot of people, but the salty feta and olives really complement the shrimp and bring out a slight sweetness. It's such a great play on the dish!<br />
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For his entrée, Mario chose the <b>Half-Pound Wagyu & Egg Burger</b> with sharp cheddar and special sauce. If there's a burger on a brunch, Mario's practically guaranteed to order it; needless to say, he's sampled many (many!) brunch burgers over the last six years. He declared this to be a perfect version of a brunch burger: thick, meaty, saucy, and eggy with just enough roughage to cut through the richness.<br />
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While Mario tends to go for the burgers, I lean toward the specialty Benedicts. Of course, I was thrilled to discover they turned my favorite dish from Bonefish into a brunch option with the <b>Bang Bang Shrimp Eggs Benedict</b>: toasted English muffin, crispy shrimp, poached eggs, green onions, and spicy Hollandaise sauce. Between the crunchy coating on the shrimp, the satisfying kick from the chili sauce, and the perfectly poached eggs, I was in brunch heaven. If you're a fan of their Bang Bang Shrimp, this version is definitely a must-try!<br />
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While we usually end brunch on a sweeter note, this time we stayed on the savory side, thanks to our server's recommendation: <b>Seafood Johnny Cakes & Eggs </b>with savory corn-based mini pancakes blended with roasted shrimp and bay scallops, and topped with poached eggs and creole sauce. This isn't a dish I would typically order, so I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it! I loved the crispy mini Johnny cakes, especially when dipped in the creamy egg yolk.<br />
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As always, we greatly enjoyed our meal at Bonefish and can't wait to see what they come up with next time (and eat even more Bang Bang Shrimp, of course!). You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://www.bonefishgrill.com/">Bonefish Grill</a>: 9310 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, IL</b> (additional locations can be found <a href="https://www.bonefishgrill.com/directory">here</a>).chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-22472111550500583982019-01-02T17:37:00.000-06:002020-08-23T16:22:34.888-05:00Chicago Eats: D&D's Place<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While once upon a time I was a fan of all donuts (every donut was a good donut, even the ones that were kind of bad), I've turned into a bit of a donut snob. No longer am I satisfied with just anything that's raised and glazed. I need my donuts not only to have a good structure and flavor, but also a filling/glaze that complements the flavor of the donut, isn't overly sweet, doesn't have a fake/chemical taste, and doesn't leave a film in my mouth from too many oils. Based on those criteria alone, there are a lot of mediocre to truly terrible donuts out there in the Chicago-area alone; the ones that are truly awesome have developed a cult-like following, including those at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/danddsplacedonuts/">D&D's Place</a> in the Ashburn neighborhood.<br />
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When a coworker of Mario's contacted me a few weeks ago to recommend his favorite donut shop/best in Chicago, I was immediately intrigued. As a fellow donut aficionado (and self-proclaimed snob), he mentioned that having traveled extensively and sampled donuts at just about every stop, he firmly believes the donuts at D&D's to be amongst the best in the nation. In fact, he believes in them so much that he does marketing and PR for the shop on a volunteer basis. But he's not the only one with a massive love for D&D's, as the shop took home the coveted 2018 People’s Choice trophy in just its first year at <a href="http://donutfest.com/chicago">Donut Fest Chicago</a>, beating out numerous other long-established and super popular donut shops. As someone who's always in search of fantastic donuts, how could I possibly resist a visit to this small, family-run South Side spot?!<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/gigibaith/">Gigi</a> and I stopped by D&D's on a chilly afternoon and immediately gravitated toward their baseball mitt-sized <b>Apple Fritters</b>. Having combed through their photos on Facebook obsessively, these were the beauties that drew us both in... and we were not disappointed in the least! These giant fritters have large chunks of fresh apples threaded throughout the soft and cinnamon-laden dough. While you can get the fritters sans pecans, I highly recommend the pecan version, as they add a gorgeous texture and contrast. Apple fritters can easily slide into the too greasy or too sweet categories, but these fritters are perfect - they're fluffy, flavorful, texturally interesting, and really, just a joy to eat.<br />
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Open wide! 😮<br />
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The best part about these fritters is the apple-to-donut ratio - you'll get a bit of every component with each bite!<br />
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After waxing poetically about their amazing Apple Fritters (and groaning in delight, of course), we moved on to a selection of their specialty raised donuts: <b>Amazing Lemon, Ripe Raspberry, Fresh Strawberry, Homemade Caramel, Blueberry Heaven, and Citrus Orange</b>. As much as we both loved (loved, loved!) the fritter, their light and airy yeast donuts blew us away! Trained by legendary donut king <a href="https://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/November-2017/Buritt-Bulloch-Old-Fashion-Donuts/">Buritt Bulloch</a>, owners Devell and Lolita Brittmon have taken his original recipe and tweaked it to make it uniquely their own. The result is a donut that is so puffy, chewy, and moist that you'll want to sample every single flavor option!<br />
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All of their fruit-based glazes are made with fresh fruit (that makes all the difference!). Gigi's favorite was the <b>Blueberry Heaven</b> - the juicy and slightly tangy topping reminded us of a blueberry compote.<br />
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We also particularly loved the super zesty and slightly tart <b>Amazing Lemon</b>, as well as the <b>Citrus Orange</b>. These donuts have just the right amount of sweetness to balance the bitterness from the citrus, while also allowing the fruit flavors to shine through.<br />
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I would be hardpressed to pick a favorite, as I truly enjoyed them all, but along with the lemon and citrus donuts, I'd most likely reach for the <b>Fresh Strawberry </b>again.<br />
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Speaking of favorites, hands down, their <b>Orginal Glaze</b> donut is the best glazed donut I've ever had. Thanks to my father's influence, classic glazed donuts have been a favorite of mine since I was a little girl; having eaten a ridiculous number of them of the years, I've gotten very, very picky about what makes a good glazed donut. These light-as-air donuts have a melt-in-your-mouth quality that is hard to find. They're lightweight, while still being lofty, and the glaze is the absolute perfect consistency without being sticky sweet. Even Gigi, who's not a massive fan of glazed donuts (as they're usually too sweet), proclaimed them to be phenomenal! It's really no surprise that these simple glazed donuts won the trophy at Donut Fest over other flashier options.<br />
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Finally, we couldn't leave without checking out their <b>Texas Size Glaze and Chocolate Donuts </b>(modeled by owners Devell and Lolita Brittmon). Their chocolate glaze is made with real cocoa and has a rich and satisfyingly deep chocolate flavor. These donuts are also massive, so come hungry if you're on the hunt for a Texas Size treat!<br />
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Needless to say, we both loved the donuts at D&D's Place - in fact, I loved them so much that I already have plans to head back to try their cake donuts. If you're a fan of delicious donuts (or a donut snob like me!), D&D's should absolutely be on your list of spots to visit again and again!<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at<b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/danddsplacedonuts/">D&D's Place</a>: 8324 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL.</b>chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-1556022504971860432018-12-31T20:07:00.002-06:002020-08-23T16:22:47.271-05:00Chicago Eats: Holiday Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Over the last few years, <a href="http://www.sedbona.com/2018/12/holiday-afternoon-tea-at-the-peninsula-2018/">Ashley</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gigibaith/">Gigi</a>, and I have bonded over our love of the holiday season. Not only are we all hardcore proponents of anything sparkly, twinkly, or girly, we also love to go all out for our celebrations (so really, it should come as no surprise that this time of year speaks to our glitter and festivities-loving souls!). When we sat down back in October to make our holiday plans, we knew we wanted to do something extra special this year, both to celebrate a few incredible changes (including Gigi's long-awaited heart transplant) and to soothe our souls after some devasting losses and unexpected life changes. As soon as Gigi and I mentioned that we had never done the Holiday Afternoon Tea at <a href="https://www.peninsula.com/en/chicago/hotel-fine-dining/the-lobby-afternoon-tea">The Peninsula</a>, Ashley knew that it was time to introduce us to one of her all-time favorite traditions.<br />
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While The Peninsula offers a gorgeous afternoon tea service year-round, they really take it to another level during the holidays. Along with the soaring two-story tree in the middle of the dining room and the bird's-eye view of the ice rink above Michigan Ave., there's also a string quartet and strolling carolers to get you in the festive mood. On top of the opulent setting, there's the lavish tea service that kicks off with a champagne toast and includes tiers and tiers of perfectly done sandwiches, scones, and special pastries. As Ashley mentioned, the decorations, service, and bites at The Peninsula are unparalleled!<br />
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Just look at this swoon-worthy tree!<br />
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How cute are the Peninsula-themed ornaments?!<br />
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The Holiday Afternoon Tea menu includes a variety of options from the full service (which we selected) to smaller trays.<br />
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We firmly believe every good celebration begins with glasses of bubbly!<br />
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The tea service includes over twenty options, ranging from classic, traditional flavors to specialty teas only offered during the holidays. Based on our server's recommendation, I selected the <b>Chai Imperial</b>, a fragrant blend of cardamom, ginger, and pink pepper. I also sampled the <b>Festive</b>, a robust tea with notes of cocoa, orange, and grape.<br />
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The tea service tray includes a variety of sandwiches (the <b>Cucumber Sandwich</b> with allspice spread & radish and the <b>Catsmo Smoked Salmon</b> with cinnamon cream cheese & trout caviar were my favorites) and sweets. While you may think of tea service food of being dainty/not filling, trust me when I say that you will leave absolutely stuffed, thanks to the endless and hearty sandwiches!<br />
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The full-service tray also includes a basket of <b>Traditional and Cranberry Orange Scones</b> served with clotted cream, raspberry jam, lemon curd, and seasonal spiced apple jam.<br />
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The whole experience is so lovely and it's absolutely my new favorite tea service in Chicago. Whether for an afternoon with girlfriends, a work outing, family time, or a romantic date, I highly recommend adding an afternoon at The Peninsula to next year's holiday plans! I cannot wait to do it all over again!</div>
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://www.peninsula.com/en/chicago/hotel-fine-dining/the-lobby-afternoon-tea">The Peninsula Chicago</a>: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL.</b></div>
chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-5426752136765577402018-11-05T11:09:00.001-06:002020-08-23T16:23:01.511-05:00Suburban Eats: Medieval Times (As A Child-Free Adult!)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNHc5pSNt62LuUgHD-FEtMSF1eGVVXpDDLcIfpyGyp2lElhaJpgUcSWf3oZ5Jh9JKY4ueoyFWw9C1qIh0iawvRcC2GJ0OgKfHowJZ9zzExQxKoNj_fRS7Wjam3aRs6BKm3YiOSK-6R4n0/s1600/IMG_7840.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNHc5pSNt62LuUgHD-FEtMSF1eGVVXpDDLcIfpyGyp2lElhaJpgUcSWf3oZ5Jh9JKY4ueoyFWw9C1qIh0iawvRcC2GJ0OgKfHowJZ9zzExQxKoNj_fRS7Wjam3aRs6BKm3YiOSK-6R4n0/s1600/IMG_7840.JPG" /></a><br />
As I'm sure you've all figured out by now, I am a total nerd... I have a serious love for the written word, I'm thoroughly obsessed with <i>The Crown</i>, I count down to Ren Faire every summer, and my vacations always involve leisurely days wandering through museums. So, it should come as no surprise that a trip to <a href="https://www.medievaltimes.com/">Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament</a> has long been on my must-visit list. A dinner show filled with dashing knights, majestic horses, epic battles, and a feast prepared by the Queen's royal chefs? Sign this nerdy girl up for a trip back to the age of chivalry!<br />
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While it seems as though practically everyone I know has childhood memories of a visit to a castle, my trip out to the Schaumburg a few weeks ago was my first time stepping into the pageantry of the 11th-century royal court. Yes, it's true that a visit to one of the ten castles is often touted as a perfect activity for kids, but let me just say that it's just as fun as an adult (perhaps even more so, as you're able to partake in ye olde massive vodka slushies!). Pro tip: take someone with you who's not afraid to wear a paper crown, cheer with abandon for their favorite knight, and lose themselves in the moment (<a href="http://www.bunnyandbrandy.com/">Jess</a> was that perfect nerd-rrific partner for me). It's true you'll find tons of young kids at the show, but you'll also find plenty of child-free adults - there was even a bachelorette party (complete with a loaded party bus) on the night we visited.<br />
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As recommended, Jess and I arrived approximately an hour before our showtime. After making our way through the check-in process (which was extremely organized!), we found ourselves in the Hall of Arms, a giant catch-all spaced filled with shopping opportunities, full-service bars, and a museum of torture. We also the chance to observe the master falconer and his birds of prey up close (so cool!) and watch the knighting ceremony performed by the newly-installed Queen.<br />
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While it was mostly kids who participated in the knighting ceremony, there were a few adults who took part (most of the child-free adults were busy picking out their favorite drinking vessels at the bar!).<br />
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Once we were ushered into the theater, we were seated in the Red & Yellow Knight's section (assigned at check-in). We were upgraded to the Queen's Royalty section, which guarantees first or second-row seating in the center section, along with a commemorative group photo, lanyard, and cheering banner. Here's the question everyone asks: is the upgrade worth it? In my opinion, it is worth it if you're with a group that's really into the show and wants to be super close to the action. Realistically, there are no terrible seats in the theater, but it's definitely a fun treat to be so close. There were a few families in the front section (mostly kids celebrating birthdays), but the majority was the child-free adult crowd.<br />
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As soon as we were settled, we got down to the important business of choosing our favorite Medieval specialty drinks.<br />
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Of course, we both chose the commemorative blue goblets, as fitting for any member of the Queen's court!<br />
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Right before the Queen's welcome, the servers (serfs and wenches) brought out the first course: <b>Dragon's Blood Soup </b>(aka tomato bisque). In case you don't already know: everyone is served the same set menu and there are no utensils. Everything is super finger-friendly though (or slurp friendly), so eating with your hands just adds to the fun!<br />
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This year is the first featuring Queen Dona Maria Isabella in the lead. In the old show's plot, the King's knights had to fight off a challenger from another realm; in the newly debuted script, Queen Isabella has taken over for her late father and proceeds over a tournament to find the best knight in the land - there's even some drama involving a knight that challenges her authority as a woman. This is the first time since the show's inception in 1983 that a woman has taken the helm; not only has this change provided a much-needed new role model for girls but it has also reinvigorated the show.</div>
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After the Queen's welcome, we were treated to the pre-tournament entertainment featuring a variety of skills games, jousting, the Flight of the Royal Falcon, and my favorite, the horse dressage. I swear the louder the crowd cheered, the higher this horse jumped!</div>
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During the exhibition, the servers brought out the main course: <b>garlic bread, roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn, and herb-basted potatoes</b>. I have to admit that I didn't have super high hopes for the food (it's all about the show!), but it was all surprisingly good. Please excuse the terrible quality photo, as I took it in the dark... I promise it tastes better than it looks!</div>
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Finally, it was time to cheer on our individual knights. And yes, they were all adorned with beautiful hair!<br />
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The Red & Yellow Knight charmed our section with carnations and blown kisses. One little girl was particularly charmed by him and practically swooned when he tossed her his first flower.<br />
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The big battle began when dinner was winding down to allow us to really focus on the show. Once the Knights advance, the netting drops, and everyone gets down to some serious jousting business. This is the point in which you definitely want to be with someone who gets into it, as it's so much fun to cheer for your knight!<br />
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There were all sorts of cool armor and weapons, including battle axes, halberds, and flails. Jess and I, along with the couples around us, got super into it as the horses galloped and the knights smashed their opponents' weapons (sparks! clanging! cheering! drama!). There was a point in which I found myself with chicken in one hand and cheering banner in the other while the woman next to me screamed "KILL HIM! KILL HIM" at top volume. </div>
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Near the end of the battle, the servers brought out <b>lemon pound cake </b>for the<b> </b>final course.<br />
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The Red & Yellow Knight prevailed! Yay! </div>
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Needless to say, we had such a fab time at Medieval Times! Everyone was super friendly and talented and they do a fantastic job at making sure the entire dinner/show runs smoothly. It's definitely an experience kids and adults alike can enjoy (especially if you're of the super nerdy variety like me!).<br />
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You can take a trip back to the land of knights, jousting, and Queen Isabella at <b><a href="https://www.medievaltimes.com/">Medieval Times</a>: 2001 N Roselle Rd, Schaumburg, IL </b>(additional locations can be found on their website). Make sure you do a little research online, as there are always discounted tickets available!</div>
chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-3231109990969794332018-08-06T08:30:00.000-05:002020-08-23T16:23:11.313-05:00Chicago Eats: Bohemian House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While my family is mostly Swedish and Italian, I grew up in an area with large Polish and Czech populations and through many festivals (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/St-Stans-Polish-Festival-199442236744237/">this</a> was always a favorite!), restaurants, and visits to my friends' houses for family dinners, I developed an appreciation for bohemian cuisine at an early age. Along with my grandmother's hearty pasta dishes and my mother's perfectly made apple pies, the flavors of Central Europe have long featured prominently on my list of delicious comfort foods.<br />
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It should come as no surprise that I was thrilled when <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BOHOCHICAGO/">Bohemian House</a> (affectionately referred to as BoHo) opened its doors in River North a few years ago. Drawing its primary influences from Czech, Polish, Austrian, and Hungarian cuisines, BoHo offers a culinary tour through Central Europe with a modern, seasonal twist. The team strives to maintain the traditional flavor profiles while also utilizing what's in season in the Midwest. The result is a unique and highly lauded restaurant serving up some of the best food in town... including over 30,000 pierogis in their first year alone!<br />
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The interior is super cozy and detailed; while it's only a few years old, the space feels very old world European.</div>
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Their gorgeous artwork makes my Mucha-loving heart happy!<br />
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<b>Smoking Mirrors:</b> gin, Génépi, tawny, applewood smoke, and lemon. Along with traditional European brews, BoHo also has an innovative cocktail program with a host of house-infused spirits. One of my favorites is this smokey and herbal cocktail with hints of lemon.<br />
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<b>Smoked Trout Toast:</b> crisp whole grain toast topped with a creamy mixture of smoked trout, cucumber Mizeria salad, quail egg, and trout roe. Available only for brunch, this super flavorful and texturally interesting toasts I've had in ages.<br />
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<b>Grilled BoHo Bacon </b>with dark lager syrup, raisins, and pumpernickel breadcrumbs on a rutabaga purée. This isn't your typical crispy strip of bacon, but rather a juicy, thick, and tender hunk of pork belly. The rutabaga purée perfectly balances the sweetness from the syrup and the meat is melt-in-your-mouth perfection!<br />
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<b>Hungarian Langos</b> with garlic sour cream, aged gouda, and dill. This ridiculously addictive crispy fried bread is a childhood favorite and BoHo gets it so, so right. It's lightly fried (no greasiness!) and super flavorful - I easily could demolish a plate of it all on my own!<br />
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<b>Zurek Soup:</b> rustic Polish soup with kielbasa, leeks, potatoes, and eggs. If you like the flavor of rye bread, this delicious and hearty soup is an absolute must! It's slightly lighter than the traditional version, as it's less bready, however, it still makes a perfect stick-to-your-ribs meal on a cold day. BoHo's version is one of my all-time favorite soups.</div>
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<b>Knackwurst Sausage with whipped hen eggs, cinnamon bread pudding, and macerated strawberries. </b>I'll be the first to admit that this is a bit of a strange combination, but somehow, it all works, thanks to the perfectly balanced sweet/savory component.</div>
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<b>Open-Faced Schnitzel Sandwich:</b> fried duck egg, horseradish cream, sauerkraut, Emmentaler, and rye toast. Along with the langos, the schnitzel sandwich is the other dish I most associate with my childhood - it's one of my ultimate comfort foods! The pork cutlet is battered and fried to perfection and the runny egg is a great addition, as it helps to keep it from drying out. I particularly like that BoHo's version is open-faced, as it's already an incredibly rich dish.<br />
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Look at that giant cutlet and perfect layers!<br />
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If you're looking for an innovative and approachable take on bohemian cuisine (or really just want some fab flavorful comfort food) in a super homey environment, BoHo should definitely be on your list!<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b>Bohemian House: 11 W. Illinois St., Chicago, IL. </b><br />
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<b>ETA: This restaurant has closed. </b></div>
chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-75555681948168635512018-07-20T09:10:00.000-05:002020-08-23T16:24:13.330-05:00Chicago Eats: Omakase Dinner at Strings Ramen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While there were once few options in Chicago for ramen (outside of dorm room dining); thankfully, it's no longer seen here as a novelty food. Over the last few years, in particular, there has been a rash of ramen shop openings, ranging from the traditional/authentic end to the more modern/Americanized renditions. Chicago still isn't exactly known as a hardcore ramen town like NY or LA, but there are still plenty of fantastic places to get your ramen fix. I make it my mission every winter to eat as much ramen as possible (while I do enjoy it all year round, my body goes into serious ramen-craving mode as soon as the temperature plunges). I've come to realize through my ramen forays that I prefer a creamy broth and firm, chewy noodles (I've also come to realize that I really shouldn't eat it in public because I will inevitably end up with broth all over my shirt! 🤣).<br />
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While I have my favorites at just about every ramen stop in the city, the one that always keeps me going back for more is the perfectly done <a href="http://www.chicagofoodiegirl.com/2017/04/recent-foodie-finds.html">tonkotsu ramen with kuro buta</a> at <a href="https://www.ramenchicago.com/">Strings Ramen Shop</a>. The broth is so thick and rich that it coats your mouth with is meaty deep roasted flavor. The noodles (unlike those at most other ramen spots in Chicago) are made fresh daily with an imported Japanese mixer and noodle maker, resulting in a thin and firm noodle that holds up in even the boldest of broths. Considering my love for Strings, it should come as no surprise that as soon as I heard they were hosting a summer omakase dinner, I was first in line to snag a ticket to this fab event held their new-ish Lakeview location!<br />
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<b>Amuse-bouche: fresh shrimp cocktail topped with ikura</b><br />
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<b>Zukemono: sake-cured salmon with Japanese cucumber, shiso, daikon, and nasu</b><br />
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<b>Tataki: yellowfin tuna, wakame, and spicy yuzu </b><br />
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<b>Fumet Ramen: slow simmered lobster, fish, and chicken broth, topped with filet mignon, micro shiso, and yuzu</b></div>
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<b>Dessert: red bean mochi with green tea ice cream (with a bonus Pride-themed cupcake)</b><br />
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It was such a treat to sample some of Chef Katie's specialty sashimi, as well as the umami-rich fumet ramen; while tonkatsu ramen will always be my favorite, the light and flavorful seafood broth is perfect for the summer! This particular dinner was for one night only; however, I highly recommend keeping an eye out for their next event (no date is set yet, but they're planning to host another dinner in the fall). In the meantime, you can check out all of the fantastic ramen options Strings has to offer (and maybe even take on the <a href="https://www.ramenchicago.com/hell-challenge/">hell ramen challenge</a>!) at one of their <b><a href="https://www.ramenchicago.com/#the-kitchen">two Chicago locations or their newly opened Madison, WI location.</a></b><br />
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3256671293925313962.post-16790564047644933742018-07-17T11:49:00.001-05:002020-08-23T16:24:25.140-05:00Chicago Eats: Gibsons Italia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you ask anyone in Chicago for steakhouse recommendations, it's guaranteed <a href="https://www.gibsonssteakhouse.com/">Gibsons</a> will dominate the list. It's one of those rare Chicago spots that has been around forever (almost 30 years, which is forever in the world of restaurants) and is loved by locals, tourists, and celebrities alike. Not only is it an institution in Chicago, it's also the epitome of what you expect when you think of a classic steakhouse: celebrity photos lining the walls, dark old-fashioned ambiance, Sinatra pumping through the speakers, and giant slabs of meat and martinis everywhere you look.<br />
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While Gibsons embodies the old school steakhouse vibe, its new sibling spot, <a href="https://gibsonsitalia.com/">Gibsons Italia</a> is the epitome of modern elegance. The three-level steakhouse is a bright and chic space complete with a retractable roof and floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the Chicago River and skyline. Along with the departure from the old-fashioned (i.e. 1980s) ambiance, Gibsons Italia has an Italian theme - in addition to top-notch steaks, the menu features antipasti, pastas, and classic Italian entrées. While I definitely can appreciate the original Gibsons for what it is, its gorgeous sister restaurant has stolen my heart and quickly become one of my favorite places to spend a leisurely afternoon thanks to its beautiful setting and fantastic food.<br />
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Mario and I stopped by for the first time a few months ago; as it was still a little too chilly sit comfortably on the patio, we snagged one of the tables right next to the giant windows that offer perfect city views.<br />
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We kicked off our lunch with a round of cocktails: I chose the seasonal <b>Perfect Pear cocktail</b> with Absolut Elyx, St. George spiced pear, and Vandermill dry cider...<br />
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... while Mario stuck to the classics side of the menu: <b>Old-Fashioned </b>made with Old Forester.<br />
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<b>Iceberg and Gorgonzola DOP</b> with Sweet 100 Tomatoes, crispy pancetta, and walnuts. I typically skip right over iceberg-based salads for more exciting appetizers, but I had to give this modern wedge salad a try after several of my friends highly recommended it. I have to admit that it was a damn good salad, thanks to the contrast in textures and the pairing of the crisp lettuce with the creamy dressing, the sweet and acidic pop from the tomatoes, and the smokiness from the pancetta.<br />
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We paired our salad with an order of <b>Alaskan King Crab</b>. This was served with the top half of the shell and tendon removed, making it easier to get at that beautiful sweet meat!<br />
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We also split a bowl of <b>King Crab Bisque </b>(I can never resist a good bowl of bisque!). This rich and creamy bisque was served with<b> </b>a generous amount of crabmeat, which added just the right touch of sweetness.<br />
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For our entrées, our server recommended ordering several pasta dishes from the Italian side of the menu and pairing them with a steak. The pasta is housemade (made fresh daily), using a gold extruder and Italian heritage organic stone-ground Senatore Cappelli flour; most of the pasta offerings lean toward the classic end with dishes such as spaghettini al pomodoro, fusilli with Neapolitan beef, and linguine with clams and chili.<br />
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<b>Linguine with Clams </b>in pinot blanco sauce: while there's nothing new about linguine with clams, the quality of the pasta most definitely makes a difference. This light and flavorful dish was so perfectly done that it has since become one of our favorite summertime lunch orders!<br />
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Speaking of favorites, this beautifully done <b>Cacio e Pepe</b> topped with shaved white truffles stole my heart (and stomach!). While this pasta is amongst the most basic dishes, it is absolutely incredible when done right - the addition of the intoxicating and powerfully tasty truffles takes this dish to a new level of deliciousness!<br />
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So perfectly done! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9H3lmJPbkTdvmDwFm7zgJ1KRLAg4MU_mlpHZcNrzurbAlZVd_0Pr1MPPyYghV3heoX7Yv3OL4qTp6Uvc-KnSYMyBZalE-NOXWsgQV94mDoX_NE1N9t-unx4TwnnVs4r9A8wWBEXPmmX2/s1600/IMG_0883.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9H3lmJPbkTdvmDwFm7zgJ1KRLAg4MU_mlpHZcNrzurbAlZVd_0Pr1MPPyYghV3heoX7Yv3OL4qTp6Uvc-KnSYMyBZalE-NOXWsgQV94mDoX_NE1N9t-unx4TwnnVs4r9A8wWBEXPmmX2/s1600/IMG_0883.JPG" /></a></div>
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For our steak, we chose to go with the <b>Japanese Kobe (A5 Sirloin) </b>from the Hyōgo Prefecture. While there are always questions about the authenticity of Kobe in the United States, Gibsons is one of the few places in Chicago in which you can actually trust that what you're being served is actually Kobe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWKSVknWLH5MiaBu4l_vr-KYpWi7Ik2M8vVm0006lCkoiB0Ef5MMI-7dpWzkt0LtrM0CF7pkF2TNq2ddevzlHLmEl8T0R_KLxZ6PI9x-n8v3eHZB-qWmY4EhKsIHlUkaCq_mvzIS1jlxK/s1600/IMG_0916.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWKSVknWLH5MiaBu4l_vr-KYpWi7Ik2M8vVm0006lCkoiB0Ef5MMI-7dpWzkt0LtrM0CF7pkF2TNq2ddevzlHLmEl8T0R_KLxZ6PI9x-n8v3eHZB-qWmY4EhKsIHlUkaCq_mvzIS1jlxK/s1600/IMG_0916.JPG" /></a></div>
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This rich and tender beef was so buttery and amazing! If you've never tried Kobe before, it is definitely worth ordering at least the 4oz minimum - it's a flavor experience that cannot be replicated.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglbMghCar2VzE9QQ5r6i7RP52nqJUKUwcD-DAp_PLQLLH6CBAXrk55kVi1i7__4XL7h6xrFWZ7mmx90BK5euUI8M6TOQEpB_L6ENALKkSl7heAFyOhxr9bt-hjJ2SYHaD21P8Z_J20De8K/s1600/IMG_0895.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglbMghCar2VzE9QQ5r6i7RP52nqJUKUwcD-DAp_PLQLLH6CBAXrk55kVi1i7__4XL7h6xrFWZ7mmx90BK5euUI8M6TOQEpB_L6ENALKkSl7heAFyOhxr9bt-hjJ2SYHaD21P8Z_J20De8K/s1600/IMG_0895.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJVo6hyphenhyphen3ICnVHTNcVMxemhpAAUgPcK5hb_gAUhsaEfbUcH5GsTEcLg8MIT3s-q7EDjg5cKi6Dish40UDkqsWqHmpwek2Mjr1bEKuo7bqDnv6Gqd_4Mzaf53SDj2SugtOVxfhtVtRn9pA-/s1600/IMG_0925.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJVo6hyphenhyphen3ICnVHTNcVMxemhpAAUgPcK5hb_gAUhsaEfbUcH5GsTEcLg8MIT3s-q7EDjg5cKi6Dish40UDkqsWqHmpwek2Mjr1bEKuo7bqDnv6Gqd_4Mzaf53SDj2SugtOVxfhtVtRn9pA-/s1600/IMG_0925.JPG" /></a></div>
Finally, we ended our meal with the <b>Torta al Cioccolato:</b> chocolate cake with cremeux, winter citrus, chocolate vincotto, and cocoa nibs. Any time I'm with Mario, it's guaranteed we will order the most decadent and chocolatey dessert on the menu (he is a chocolate fiend!). This is one of those desserts that will catch you by surprise, as you'll first only taste the deep chocolate; then suddenly, the slight bitterness from the citrus will take over.<br />
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We also sampled the light and perfectly seasonal <b>Mousse di Castagne </b>with<b> </b>caramelized white chocolate, poached pears, cranberries, and walnut crumble. </div>
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Needless to say, I loved my meal at Gibsons Italia - in fact, I loved it so much that I went back twice within the following month! Thanks to the delicious bites, impeccable service, and gorgeous city views, Gibsons Italia is an absolute must-visit for city-dwellers and visitors alike.<br />
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You can try all of this deliciousness and more at <b><a href="https://gibsonsitalia.com/">Gibsons Italia</a>: 233 N. Canal, Chicago, IL.</b></div>
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chicago foodie girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13332010809660151470noreply@blogger.com0