EAT. SHOP. PLAY. Discovering the Best in Chicago
BY KELLY ALESSO It’s no secret I have a borderline obsessive love with cheese and all of its accompaniments, so Pastoral’s 3rd Annual Artisan Producer Festival is my idea of Christmas in April. On Saturday, April 27, The Chicago French … [Read more...]
BY MARIS CALLAHAN La Sirena Clandestina literally translates to "the hidden mermaid" but you'll only spend as long wondering about the origin of the restaurant's name as it takes you to order a plate of chef/owner John Manion's empanadas. Once … [Read more...]
BY RACHEL DICKENS This post is part of our new Barely Refined series that gives readers a weekly dose of all things decadent and indulgent. Walking down Randolph St. before 6pm can be pretty grueling – especially if you’re hungry. I’ve … [Read more...]
BY RACHEL DICKENS On a sensory level, Paul Kahan’s restaurants have more than enough to offer. From the iconic spherical lights that line the Publican’s ceiling, to the al Pastor-saturated aromas that make the hundred-hour waits at Big Star … [Read more...]
BY MARIS CALLAHAN Growing up on the East coast, I think there is one thing Chicago lacks: a diner on every block. Sure, the Pick Me Up Cafe has your late night snacking needs and I'd be lying if I said I'd never had a grilled cheese sandwich from … [Read more...]
BY EDMUND CRUZ Today, people around the world celebrate the beginning of Lent with a huge party known as Mardi Gras. Here in Chicago, we also celebrate Paczki Day, the Polish celebration of Fat Tuesday. Don't let my Chinese-Filipino background … [Read more...]
BY MARIS CALLAHAN Whether you’re single or double, Sofia, an independent boutique that makes us want to spend all our money in one afternoon, has created a unique way for customers to spend Valentine’s Day in style with two area … [Read more...]
BY KELLY ALESSO Where do your eyes go when you pick up a menu? If you’re like me, the entrees captivate your attention first as you debate between chicken thighs and the cider brined pork chop until the pan seared duck breast tempts you and you … [Read more...]
BY MARIS CALLAHAN Admit it. The weather is getting cold and you've been craving soothing cocktails that will warm you up from the inside, out. Maude's Liquor Bar might be most widely known for its indulgent French fare like French onion fondue, … [Read more...]
BY KELLY ALESSO “Would you like to try a piece of what I think is the most exciting cheese of the season?” Those were the seductive words that greeted me from behind the cheese counter when I popped into Pastoral (home of the amazing Sweet … [Read more...]
