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Jean Banchet Awards winners announced. Giuseppe Tentori - Chef of the Year; Next - Best New Restaurant

2012-01-30T18:41:00.001-06:00

The Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence, the local James Beard-like awards of the restaurant world, announced winners at a benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation on Friday Night. The ceremony was hosted by WLS-TV personality Steve Dolinsky and master sommelier and host of Check Please Alpana Singh at the Fairmont Hotel.

Forty-four exceptional chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, restaurants and catering companies provided the food for the annual Chicago awards and, for the first time, the nominating process was open to the public.

Marcella Hudson, Tod Barber, Robyn Jones and Carissa Shaffer
from Francesca's Restaurants.

The event brought together the who's who of Chicago’s restaurant scene and some 700 guests who enjoyed cocktails, appetizers and a seated dinner by guest chefs, restaurants and The Fairmont Hotel. The awards were part of the 15th annual Grand Chefs Gala hosted by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and raised close to $200,000 to help fund research to find a cure this deadly disease.

Cindy Kurman and Jimmy Bannos

Chef Jimmy Bannos and chef/restaurateur Scott Harris were honored with the Founders' Award, awarded to those who "significantly affected lives in a charitable or humanitarian way."

2012 Jean Banchet Award winners were:

Chef of the Year
Ryan LaRoche, NoMI
Dan Pancake, Autre Monde
Giuseppe Tentori, GT Fish & Oyster -- WINNER
Andrew Zimmerman, Sepia

Pastry Chef of the Year
Bryce Caron, Blackbird
Meg Galus, NoMI
Amanda Rockman, The Bristol -- WINNER
Cindy Schuman, Sepia

Chef-de-Cuisine
Dave Beran, Next -- WINNERSean Pharr, NoMI
David Posey, Blackbird
Brian Runge, Graham Elliot

Rising Chef
Chris Curren, Blue 13
Danny Grant, RIA
Chris Macchia, Coco Pazzo -- WINNER
Paul Dobroski, NoMI 

Rising Pastry Chef
Aya Fukai, RIA
Sarah Jordan, BOKA -- WINNER
Stephanie Mazzone, Coco PazzoKady Yon, Pump Room at Public Chicago

Best Sommelier
Scott Harney, Eno at the Intercontinental
Michael Muser, The Peninsula Chicago -- WINNER
Dan Pilkey, RIA
Aaron Sherman, NoMI

Best Mixologist
Stephen Cole, Barrelhouse Flat
Lynn House, Blackbird
Debbi Peek, The Bristol
Josh Pearson, Sepia -- WINNER

Best Neighborhood RestaurantAutre Monde  The Bristol -- WINNERMaude's Liquor
Bar  Vera

Best Fine DiningBlue 13
Coco Pazzo
Next -- WINNERSepia

Best New Restaurant
Autre Monde
GT Fish & Oyster
Next -- WINNER
Vera

Best Catering Company
BOKA Catering
Catering by Michaels
Entertaining Company
Limelight -- WINNER

People's Choice Award (Best dish served at cocktail event voted by attendees)The Purple Pig for its milk-braised pork shoulder

Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman

Everest Burger 2.0, new and improved for 2012

2012-01-25T09:15:00.000-06:00

Most restaurateurs would agree that any new concept should be fine-tuned during its first year as it climbs up the learning curve and gets to know its customers. This wisdom has not bypassed Mark and Margarita Challenger, owners of Everest Burger, located at 91 Green Bay Rd. in Glencoe, Ill. (847-242-0909). This "better burger" joint, which opened in February 2011, is located on the Winnetka/Glencoe border in the North Shore area of Chicago. The owners are an engaging couple who also own the very popular Guanajuato Contemporary Mexican and Tequila Bar a few doors down from Everest Burger. They have made several key changes during 2011 and the customers couldn’t be more pleased.

"We’ve learned a lot during our first year at Everest Burger," said Mark, "and we’ve made some significant changes that will better serve our customers. We’ve moved to a different supplier of beef, changed some of our ingredients, added new recipes, changed our menu presentation, and moved to full table service because that’s what our customers want. We’ve also started daily breakfast service." The core mission of Everest Burger has not changed, however. "Our goal still remains to serve fresh, healthy food that our guests will find to be a delicious, intelligent alternative to typical burger joint fare," he says.

The beef is juicier and richer tasting
The first thing the Challengers did was to review their choice of all-natural beef. "We originally chose a Piedmontese beef that is a very lean, healthy, all-natural product that contains no hormones, additives or antibiotics," said Mark. "It’s a great product, but we found that it was simply too lean to please our customers tastes—they are used to richer beef. What was missing was the robust flavor that can be found in beef that has a higher fat content." So the Challengers spent several months researching other beef suppliers and eventually chose Missouri-based Rain Crow Ranch.

"This company brings to Everest Burger all of the qualities we look for," said Mark. "The beef is still all-natural, grass-fed and free of any hormones, additives and antibiotics. It’s also raised in the most cattle-friendly way possible. The difference is that the beef is from Angus cattle and delivers a heartier flavor experience. Our burgers are now juicer, moister and more flavorful than before and our customers love them. So do our kids." Everest Burger still grinds its beef in-house and the process has been improved for better texture. By grinding them in-house we can be assured that we are using the exact cuts of beef that we want. When you buy a pre-ground product as most burger restaurants do, you cannot be assured you are getting the quality you want.'

The burgers are now larger and the pricing is also simpler. The regular sized Everest Burger served with fries ($9.95) has been increased from 4 ounces to 5 ounces. The "big and juicy" burger (8 ounces) is also available at $12.95. Each burger recipe is priced the same no matter if the guest chooses grass-fed beef, free-range chicken or turkey, or organic vegetarian (black bean, Portobello or walnut). However, there is a $3 up-charge for choosing Wild Alaskan Salmon, which is flown in from Alaska. All burgers now come with choice of homemade French Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Carrot Sticks or Coleslaw included in the price.

There are some other nice changes to the menu. The all grass-fed beef hot dogs are now served Chicago-style, with mustard, onion, tomato, celery salt, sweet pickle relish, sport peppers and a pickle spear. Sweet potato fries and homemade coleslaw are new options and there are also weekly specials like the Glencoe Burger (arugula, olive oil mayonnaise, tomato, and onion, ketchup and served on a house-made sesame bun) and the Great Gringo Burger (Corona beer marinated beef served with chipotle mayonnaise, tomato, ketchup, lettuce and grilled jalapenos). All condiments and produce are organic. On the dessert side, Everest Burger’s frozen yogurt is creamier than ever and they use real organic yogurt from Wisconsin in the recipe, unlike most other frozen yogurt that is made from powder.

The kids menu continues to be popular and there are several improvements. Pasta and meatballs are now available as well as meatball sliders. The kids’ meals are served in delightful, artistic cardboard cars and trucks.
Another big change has involved the menu presentation. "When our guests walk in, they view our large menu board on the wall behind the front counter," said Mark. "It lists all of our food choices, including our special recipes. The problem we had is that, originally, the menu board contained all text and no photos. We found that our customers had a hard time visualizing our burger creations and so ordering was too difficult. We’ve now designed and installed a brand new menu board, complete with color photos of the signature items. It’s bright and very appealing and ordering is much easier."
To make ordering and overall service even better, Everest Burger has added full table service and free WiFi. Guests can now be seated in the dining room and a server will give them all of the service they need, including explanations of the menu items. "It’s a better experience for the customers and it gives us more opportunity to chat with them and get to know them so we can continue to make them happy. That’s what a neighborhood restaurant should be," said Mark. "People on the go can still order at the counter and then sit down; the food will be brought to them, ready to eat in the dining room or packaged for takeout."

Everest Burger’s bakery becomes a central focus
The restaurant has always prided itself on its homemade baked goods. From the beginning, we’ve baked our burger buns from scratch, in-house," said Margarita. "We started out offering healthy, whole wheat buns that were delicious. But our customers told us they didn’t absorb the burger’s juices as readily as lighter white buns and the burgers were a bit too messy for some. After months of testing, we’ve designed a new, bigger burger bun, made from organic whole wheat white and unbleached flour. We didn’t sacrifice any flavor, though—they’re tastier than before. It’s a very good improvement." For those who prefer, Everest Burger still offers its sesame, whole wheat, vegan and gluten-free buns. The gluten-free buns are made from rice flour, buckwheat and flaxseed. Margarita tested several recipes before choosing this one.

New Breakfast Service
The bakery is also now the impetus for Everest Burger’s new breakfast service.
"Everest Burger, with its free parking, is a convenient stop for breakfast and we’re now offering some hearty breakfast entrées as well as a variety of wonderful pastries that are baked on premises," said Margarita. All egg dishes are prepared with free-range, organic eggs. The turkey bacon and sausage are hormone-free. Organic flour is used in the pancakes and waffles.
"Together with our fresh juices and our new espresso and cappuccino service—using excellent coffee, I might add—we have become an attractive spot for people who want to get off to a great morning start." Everest Burger’s breakfast service begins at 8 a.m.

The breakfast menu feature such items as the Breakfast Burrito, warm, flour tortilla filled with beef chorizo, black beans, scrambled eggs and cotija cheese ($7.95); the Everest Waffle, a home-made Belgian waffle with choice of strawberries, bananas or blueberries ($8.95); Blueberry Pancakes, three fluffy buttermilk or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes cooked with fresh blueberries ($9.95); Everest Pancakes, three fluffy buttermilk or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes cooked with shredded carrots, Granny Smith apples and raisins, and served with a side of plain yogurt ($10.95).

Omelette choices include the Nova Lox Omelette, three eggs, lox, onion, tomatoes and cream cheese; Steak Omelette, three eggs, steak, mushrooms, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion and sharp cheddar cheese; Everest Omelette, three eggs with a wonderful mix of spinach, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms and avocado, and the Mediterranean Omelette, three eggs, roasted sweet bell pepper, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, parsley, fresh garlic, scallions and feta cheese. All omelettes start at $10.95.
The bakery and coffee service are open all day and there are plenty of freshly baked cookies, cupcakes, muffins and brownies to choose from.

The new and improved Everest Burger is just another step for the Challengers as they continue to refine their business and become increasingly involved in their community. "We love this area and we’ve been fortunate to have sponsored some local sports teams and other programs, said Mark. "We hope the community will continue to support us as well and, if they weren’t convinced their first time at Everest Burger, they should come back and give Everest Burger another try. We think they will be very pleased with version 2.0. We want to hear from our guests about what we’re doing right and how we can make our restaurant the place to go for delicious, healthy burgers, great breakfast and much more."

About Everest Burger
Everest Burger is a better burger restaurant and bakery located at 91 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, Ill. The restaurant and bakery is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, contact Everest Burger at (847) 242-0909 or online at www.everestburger.com.

Fleming's Hosts Qupe Winery Dinner January 28 in Lincolnshire

2012-01-20T09:15:00.000-06:00

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (960 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, IL; 847-793-0333) is hosting a Qupe Winery Wine Dinner 6:30 p.m., Saturday, January 28. Qupe winemaker Bob Lindquist, one of the most respected producers on California's Central Coast and one the 50 most influential winemakers, as ranked by Food & Wine magazine, will be present to speak about the wines.
Fleming's Lincolnshire chef partner Roger Abuan and Lindquist have worked together

to showcase the best of food and wine for the dinner. The evening starts with a passed appetizer reception featuring Sweet Chile Shrimp on Lotus Root and Endive Leaf Stuffed with Crab Salad paired with Bien Nacido CuvÃ©e, Santa Maria Valley, 2010. This is followed by the first course, Roasted Beet Salad with goat cheese and baby greens paired with Chardonnay Bien Nacido Y Block, Santa Maria Valley, 2010. The second course is Sesame-Crusted Salmon over braised swiss chard with Grenache Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard, Edna Valley, 2009. The third course features a delicious Filet Mignon with celery root purÃ©e and Syrah reduction. It is the perfect pair for Los Olivos CuvÃ©e, Santa Ynez Valley, 2007. Dessert is Chocolate Raspberry Mousse with Chantilly cream elegantly paired with Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, 2008.

The dinner is $89 per person, excluding tax and gratuity and includes five wine pairings with four delicious courses and dessert. Reservations for the Qupe Winery Wine Dinner at Fleming's are required and may be made by calling (847) 793-0333.

About Qupe Winery
Bob Lindquist founded Qupe Winery in 1982 in southern California. From the beginning, he decided the winery would focus on making Syrah and varietals of Rhone wine, as well as Chardonnay. In 1989, Qupe partnered with Au Bon Climat Winery for space at the Bien Nacido Vineyard, where their grapes are still grown today. Qupe Winery has been honored with many awards, including being named one of Wine & Spirits Magazine's Top 100 Wineries in America eight of the last nine years.

About Bob Lindquist
A Midwest native, Bob Lindquist has been working with southern California wines since the 1970s, and founded Qupe Winery in 1982. He is also a partner in Verdad Winery, a winery dedicated to Spanish varietals and run by his wife Louisa. They recently planted forty acres called the Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard, where they are starting the next chapter of their life. Lindquist has three grown children who work in the wine industry and lives in San Louis Obispo, California, with Louisa and their son Theo.

About Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Nationally acclaimed Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers the best in steakhouse dining -- Prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders -- with a unique wine list known as the "Fleming's 100TM" that features 100 wines served by the glass. Fleming's was launched in Newport Beach, Calif. in 1998 by successful restaurant industry veterans Paul Fleming and Bill Allen. Today there are 64 restaurants nationwide. Fleming's is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including Wine Spectator's annual Awards of Excellence, and Wine Enthusiast's annual Awards of Distinction.

For more information about Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, please visit www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com.

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FirstBites Bash Feb. 2 gives taste of upcoming Chicago Restaurant Week

2012-01-19T14:15:00.000-06:00

United Airlines presents FirstBites Bash, the official kick-off event for Chicago Restaurant Week, produced by theChicago Convention & Tourism Bureau. Inside the magnificent Great Hall of Chicago Union Station,enjoy savory and sweet tastings from over 50 of Chicago's best chefs andrestaurants.

Chicago restaurateur and Top Chef winner StephanieIzard will host this event, from which 100% of net proceedswill benefit the GreaterChicago Food Depository.

Create your own food pairings with Moet Hennessy wines, Belvedere cocktails andBlue Moon craft beers. And the Groupon Dessert Lounge is sure to satisfy thatsweet tooth!

Tickets for FirstBites on February 2 are $125 per person or $1250 for a table of 10.

Chicago Restaurant Week runs for ten glorious daysin February when restaurants you’ve been dying to try offer delicious deals.This year’s 5th annual event will take place from February 17-26. To purchase tickets go to FirstBitesBash2012.com.

FirstBites confirmed participating restaurants include:

Chicago Area Valentine's Day Celebrations & Gift Ideas

2012-01-19T12:12:00.000-06:00

While itmay seem like this year just started, let’s not forget that Valentine’s Day isright around the corner. If you’re stuck while trying to come up with a way toshow the special person in your life how much they mean to you, let us help.From decadent dining options to spicy Mexican meals, ways to celebrate the daywith your children or gifts to spoil your sweetheart, here are our suggestionsfor celebrating the love in your life.

With its ties to Paris, the Cityof Love, the Chicago French Market (131 N.Clinton St., Chicago, IL 60661; 312-575-0306) is the place to be to celebratelove this season. Delightful Pastries will feature raspberry linzer hearts, raspberry ganache tarts anddecorated heart butter cookies for Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking for amore Parisian pastry, stop by Vanille Patisserie for their famous macarons. Light and sweet, these cookies areperfect for Valentine’s Day.

For the traditionalist, Les Fleurs offers unique, handmade bouquets every day. You can’t go wrongwith their fresh flowers for Valentine’s Day. For the traditional, you can alsofind the perfect chocolates are to spoil the one you love at Canady le Chocolatier. They are offering their beautiful nine-piece chocolates in afloral box for $22, and the more extravagant 30-piece floral box is $50. If youare looking for a plainer box, Canady also offers their 11-piece box for $17and a one-pound box for $40.

If you are shopping for acoffee lover, Lavazza Espression in the French Market is giving away a free cup and saucerwith the purchase of a pound of their gourmet coffee for $14.75 or $15 throughFebruary 29. Lavazza also is offering decadent specialty coffees duringFebruary. The Meringato,espresso and Nutella crowned with whipped cream ($3.59), and the Strawberry andStrawberryChoco Nespressone ($2.95 to $3.75) are delicious ways to celebrateearly. Lavazza also offers delicious food to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whilethey will have the more traditional Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies($3.99), they also feature a mouthwatering Torta di Cioccolato ($4.50), artisan crafted chocolatecake layered with raspberry and covered with ganache, and Crostata diCioccolato ($3.99), an artisan crafted chocolate ganache tart. AllLavazza’s special Valentine’s Day food items are available January 23 throughFebruary 17.

For a more luxurious gift, Abbey Brown Soap Artisan offers many handmade soaps,lotions and bath salts in an array of tempting scents. If you plan to celebratethe holiday with a little something bubbly, Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread andWinehas an array of luxury gifts available. Pastoral is offering a Caviar for TwoCollection, a gift medley featuring a tin of Sturgeon Caviar from Italy;Picolo, a creamy California cheese; cocktail toasts and a bottle of L MawbyBlanc de Blanc. Additionally, they are featuring a Chocolat et Fromage giftbox, which includes an enticing assortment of chocolates from around the worldand two cheeses to pair with them. This box is also available with one ofPastoral’s wine selections. If you want to celebrate the holiday with theone you love before Valentine’s Day, Pastoral’s gift boxes are available attheir website, www.pastoralartisan.com.

The bakery at Everest Burger (91 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, IL 60022; 847-242-0909) will featuredelicious Valentine’s Day treats made on-site from all-natural ingredients.They will have heart-shaped Valentine’s Day cookies and beautiful strawberrycupcakes for $2 each. They’re the perfect treat to take home to your family orfor kids to share with their classmates.

Fat Rosie’s Taco and Tequila Bar (1890 W.Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174; 630-762-0235) is hosting their annual AmorValentine’s Day Dinner 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 14. The dinner will featureExecutive Chef Raul Arreola’s Recipes of Love and two Classica Margaritas. TheAmor Valentine’s Day Dinner is $65 per couple, excluding tax and gratuity.Reservations are required.

The Amor Valentine’s Day Dinnerstarts with Uchepos Gratinado, a corn tamale with poblano cream,melted cheese and esquites. This is followed by a choice of either Ensaladade Palmitos, hearts of palm with mixed greens and roasted red peppersdrizzled in Cilantro Serrano dressing or Sopa de Chipachole,tomato chipotle broth with crabmeat and grilled asparagus. For the thirdcourse, diners can choose between Pescado Adobado, a fresh fishof the day served with Adobo sauce, roasted fingerling potatoes and babyspinach or Puerco in Mole Verde, pork loin in Oaxaca green molewith whole black beans and mashed potato. The meal ends with the delicious ChabelasCake, a Tres Leches cake with fresh fruit and berry sauce.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse andWine Bar (25 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60611; 312-329-9463 and 960 MilwaukeeAve., Lincolnshire, IL 60069; 847-793-0333) is extending their Valentine’s Daycelebration from February 12 through 14. This is always a popular destination forValentine’s Day, so make sure to make your reservations early. Each couplecelebrating Valentine’s Day with Fleming’s these days also will receive a$25 dining card toward a future rendezvous at Fleming’s. Don’t miss out on thisamazing offer.

Fleming’s Valentine’s Day menuincludes a three mouthwatering entrées, special wine pairings and a decadentdessert. Each Valentine’s Day entrée is $69.95. These special, decadent mealsinclude Filet Mignon and Prawns, filet mignon on a bed of sautéedPortobello mushrooms and smoky bacon, paired with crab-stuffed prawns and alemon garlic butter sauce; Prime New York Strip and King Crab,which is presented Oscar-style, topped with butter-poached King Crab, grilledasparagus and champagne béarnaise sauce and served with a sweet potatoquenelle; and Lobster and Lobster, Colossal North Atlanticlobster tail with drawn butter and served with lobster mac and cheese. Finish this delicious meal with a luxurious dessert for two, Red VelvetCake served with Espresso Truffles for $9.50.

While you enjoy Fleming’sdelicious Valentine’s menu, don’t forget the wine. Fleming’s recommended winepairings for their holiday meal are Tiamo, Chianti Italy, 2010; TerraValentine, Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2007; and Roderer Estate,Brut Rosé Anderson Valley NV. Each wine is available by the bottle and bythe glass. Fleming’s also is featuring special Valentine’scocktail, the Bella-Tini. It’s a special way to toast to yourValentine. This bellini-inspired cocktail with Belvedere vodka, peach purée andMas Fi Cava sparkling wine is $9.95 a glass.

Make reservations for Fleming’sValentine’s Day celebration by calling either the Chicago or Lincolnshirelocation or visiting http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com.

Francesca’s restaurantslocations are celebration Five Days of Valentines Friday, February 10 throughTuesday, February 14. During these five days, Francesca’s will feature Pizza conProsciutto e Rucola, arugula, lemon, olive oil, roasted plumtomatoes, mozzarella and Prosciutto di Parma, for $11.99. They will alsofeature the festive Ravioli Tartufati, heart-shaped cheese-filledpasta with a garlic Parmesan cream sauce, fresh tomatoes and a drizzle of whitetruffle oil for $16.99. (This pasta will be available at all locations exceptFrancesca’s Forno). Francesca’s special edition "Hearts on Fire" Martiniwill also be available for $9. This tasty drink is made with vodka, Cointreau,Aperol, Disaronno and fresh lemon juice. For dessert, Francesca’s offersbeautiful Tortadi Frutta Della Passione, a passion fruit tart with whitechocolate cream and fresh berries. A Valentine’s evening at Franceca’s is sureto be a treat.

Francesca’s Bryn Mawr (1039 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Chicago, IL 60660; 773-506-9261) will bekicking off their brunch specials soon, but if you dine with them duringValentine’s week, February 10 through 14, you can receive a gift certificatefor $10 off brunch at the restaurant, which can be redeemed from February 18through April 15.

Francesca’s on Chestnut (200 E.Chestnut St., Chicago, IL 60611; 312-482-8800) is offering a special menu forValentine’s Day Diners. The St. Valentine’s Day Couples Special is $103.99 forfour courses and a bottle of wine, not including tax and gratuity.

The St. Valentine’s Day CupidSpecial comes with a bottle of either MASI Modello Delle Venezie Bianco 2009 or MASI MondelloDelle Venezie Rosso 2008. Couples start the meal with Alaskan SnowCrab Claws, four crab claws over julienne lettuce and chives,served with honey Dijon mustard sauce to share. This is followed by the FrancescaSalad, a delicious mix of romaine lettuce, endive, radicchio,blue cheese and fresh vegetables to share. Each diner may choose his or her ownentrée from three delicious choices, including Braised Beef Brassatowith potato gratinatti, crispy asparagus and natural juice, PorkTenderloin wrapped in prosciutto with a bed of sautéed spinachand oven-dried tomatoes in an oregano wine sauce, or Mahi Mahi,almond crusted mahi with fennel, beets, baby greens, and champagne mustardsauce. This delicious and romantic meal concludes with ChocolateMousse for the couple to share.

Valentine’s Day celebrating isn’tjust for adults! Francesca’s Fortunato (40 Kansas St., Frankfort, IL 60423; 815-464-1890) is celebratingJunior Cupid Day 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, February 11. Parents areinvited to bring their Junior Cupids in wearing pink or red, and they will geta complimentary special dessert with their meal. There will also be theopportunity to wine a $25 gift certificate to Toys R Us by guessing the correctnumber of Sweethearts in the jar.

Planning to dine at Francesca’s Tavola (208 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005;847-394-3950) the week of Valentine’s Day? The restaurant is offering aspecial personal touch for your Valentine’s Day. When making their reservation,guests can order a box of homemade truffles with a personalized note for only$10. It will be waiting at your table when you come to enjoy your Valentine’sDay meal. It’s a sweet, personalized treat to show your dinner companion justhow much you care.

Francesca’s at the Promenade (641 E. Boughton Rd.,Bolingbrook, IL 60440; 630-739-6300) has partnered with Aloft Hotel (500 Janes Ave., Bolingbrook, IL 60440; 630-410-6367) to create aspecial romantic package for couples. Throughout the month of February, enjoy aone-night stay for two at Aloft Hotel and a fantastic dinner at Francesca’s atthe Promenade for $199. With such a great partnership, we can be sure it willbe an evening to remember.

If you’re looking to keep theromance alive after Valentine’s Day, Francesca’s Tavola (208 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005;847-394-3950) is hosting a romantic wine dinner 7 p.m. Thursday, February 16.The dinner will feature the wines of Buglioni Vineyards with aphrodisiac foods.The dinner is $55 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations arerequired.

The evening begins with a cocktailhour featuring Ostriche di Amore, oysters on a half shell with apomegranate mionette. This is paired with "Il Vigliacco" Brut Rose. The first coursefor the evening is Carciofi al Miele, shaved sunchokes on Romaineleaves with honey, roasted lemon and pecorini sardo paired with "IlIntruso" Bianco Veronese. Following this is Orecchiete deRapini, orecchiete, rapini, roasted garlic and calabrian chilespaired with AlpolicellaClassico. The third course is Costine Bue con Polenta, braised short ribs,creamy herbed polenta and asparagus. This is a perfect pair for "IlBugiardo" Valpolicella Classicao Superiore Ripasso DOC. The eveningof aphrodisiacs ends with Duo di Macaroon, an almond and walnut fig filledmacaroon with gorgonzola dolce and date and raisin conserva. "L’Amarone"Amarone della Valpolicella is paired with the dessert course.Guests also receive homemade chocolate truffles to take home and continue thecelebration.

GuanajuatoContemporary Mexican & Tequila Bar (73 Green BayRd., Glencoe, IL 60022; 847-242-0501) will feature a special Cornish GameHen with garlic spinach, black beans and smoky red salsa toshare for $24.95 on Valentine’s Day. For a unique Valentine’s Day dessert, tryGuanajuato’s delicious Strawberry Flan made with real roses for $9.95. Adate night at Guanajuato would not be complete without one of their legendarymargaritas. For Valentine’s Day, Guanajuato is featuring their amazing Prickly PearMargarita and a Blood Orange Margarita for $10. The restaurantalso will have live music on Valentine’s Day and be open until 10 p.m. Totreat your Valentine an authentic, romantic trip south of the border whilestaying on the North Shore, make sure to visit Guanajuato.

For the art lover in your life, orfor a unique and beautiful gift, visit the JudyA. Saslow Gallery (300 W. Superior, Chicago, IL 60654; 312-943-0530).Currently, the gallery is displaying outsider art as a part of its Far Out:2012 show. When you make a piece from this show part of your home, yourValentine will always remember this year as a special one. Whether your lovedone desires a painting, a print or a sculpture, the Judy A. Saslow Gallery hasan array of lovely options. The gallery also showcases intricate handmadejewelry. Visit the Judy A. Saslow Gallery Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m. to 5p.m. and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Maxwell’s at the Club (500 N. Kingsbury St., Chicago, IL 60610; 312-527-5800) willfeature a special Valentine’s Day menu in addition to their normal a la cartemenu 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. February 14. This prix fixe menu is $40 per person,not including alcohol, and includes an appetizer, salad, entrée and dessert.Entrée selections include steak and lobster tail, seafood and chateaubriand fortwo. Dinner guests may also attend the Valentine's Day Party Riverview from 6to 10 p.m. at no extra cost. This party includes a hors d'oeuvres buffet, cashbar and performance by cover band Midnight Sun. The cost of attending theValentine’s Day Party without Dinner at Maxwell’s is $30 per person. For dinnerreservations call Maxwell’s at 312-527-5800, extension 301.

Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, IL 60062; 847-205-4433) hasValentine celebrations available for diners of all ages. February 13, childrenare welcome to come in for dinner and decorate cookies for their parents. Eachchild will receive three heart-shaped cookies, one to eat and two to give away.They will decorate them using Prairie Grass’s house-made, all natural frostingand receive a card to decorate and box to present it in for just $14. It’s agreat way for them to show their parents love.

If you’re looking to makenaturally colored icing at home, why not borrow a recipe from Prairie Grass?You’ll need two cups of powdered sugar, two and a half tablespoons of heavycream and a small beet, coarsely grated. Blend the sugar and cream with a handmixer until smooth and stir in the grated beet a little at a time untilreaching the desired color. Press the icing through a fine sieve to remove beetstrands.

Prairie Grass alsois featuring a special Valentine’s Day menu of February 14. The menufeatures half-dozen Oysters Rockefeller for $15. Delicious Shrimp Cakeswith tomato chutney, forbidden black rice and crunchy vegetable slaw make adelicious entrée for $26. Prairie Grass will also feature Bison FiletMignon as an entrée with sweet and savory potato gratin and"River Valley Ranch" mushroom ragout for $42. Prairie Grass’sspecialty dessert offerings include the PGC "Date" Cake, rich cake infused withMedjool Dates and covered in a sticky toffee sauce, topped with homemadevanilla bean ice cream for $7.50 or their famous Mom’s Cherry Pie,featuring Door County Sour Cherries for $7.50.

The Valentine’s Day Sparkler,Prairie Grass’s special holiday cocktail, is made with a dash of AngosturaOrange Bitters, half an ounce of Mathilde Raspberry Liquor and five ounces ofProsecco. It is garnished with a delightful raspberry juice ice cube in theshape of a heart. For $11, it’s a great cocktail to celebrate the holiday.

Prairie Grass Cafe’s unique andtasty menu is perfect for a memorable holiday with the one you love.

Francesca's celebrates Cabernet with 6-course Chateau St. Michelle Estates dinner

2012-01-18T09:30:00.000-06:00

Francesca’s Cabernet Wine Dinner celebrates "our favorite red grape." Kelley Joerns of Chateau St. Michelle Estates will be on-site to speak about the wines during the evening.

January 26, 7 p.m. – Francesca’s on 95th (6248 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn, IL 60453; 708-598-7007)
January 27, 7 p.m. –Francesca’s Fortunato (40 Kansas St., Frankfort, IL 60423; 815-464-1890)

This six-course meal is $52 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour where Francesca’s will be serving their delicious Crostini assortiti. The first course of the evening will be Filetto di Pesce all’aroma di Nocciolee Insalatina di Camp, hazelnut crusted grouper with baby greens in a beurre blanc Sauce, which is served with Antica Chardonnay 2009. This is followed by Arancini alla Valdostana, a rice ball filled with prosciutto, fontina and sage with smoked roasted tomato sauce and bitter greens. Conn Creek Cabernet 2008 makes a great pair for this course. The third course features Stracci della Nonna, hand-made pasta sautéed with braised pork, herbs and parmigiano, and it is paired with Hands of Time 2009, a Bordeaux blend. Bistecca con Cipolline e polenta, charred London broil with gorgonzola polenta, cipollini onion and asparagus spears is the next course. It is paired with Col Solare 2006, another Bordeaux blend. The evening ends with Biscotti e Caffe, assorted cookies and coffee.

Francesca's Tavola Hosts Winter Two Brothers Brewing Beer Dinner January 26

2012-01-17T21:48:00.000-06:00

Francesca’s Tavola (208 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005; 847-394-3950) hosts a Two Brothers Brewing Company beer dinner 7 p.m., January 26.

One of the brothers will be on-site to discuss their beer-making process and how their beers pair with Francesca’s food selections. This four-course meal is $35 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

The meal starts with Polpo Grigliato, grilled octopus with fagioli gigantic, marinated sundried tomatoes and lemon vinaigrette, which is paired with Two Brother’s Ebel’s Weiss, a German Hefeweizen. This is followed by Polpetti Agnello, lamb meatballs with spicy San Marzano tomato sauce, arugula and lemon. This makes an excellent partner for the Cane & Ebel red rye ale. The third course features Gnocchi con Pancetta, sweet potato gnocchi with cipollini onions, pancetta and brown-butter sage. This is paired with Resistance, an India Pale Ale. The final course features Brasato di Bue, beer-braised beef ribs with parsnip puree paired with Two Brother’s Northwind beer.

WGN - Get With It, John Williams deserves a marketing budget

2012-01-13T17:19:00.002-06:00

How many of you listen to the radioduring lunch? If you’ve been following the banter on WGN radio, you know thatJohn Williams is being treated as a second class radio personality to the bigbuck Garry Meier and Jonathan Brandmeier. We love both of them, but reallyguys, John Williams deserves a break. No marketing budget for John Williamsbillboards – resort to PR. Our clients at Francesca’s Bellezza in LaGrange LOVE youand John, they’re in your backyard (at home--you do live in LaGrange, right?). They’ve enlisted us (Kurman Communications), their pr team, toget on the bandwagon. So here’s to you John. Everyone, email your “Sign ofFaith – I Listen to John Williams Weekdays 12-3 pm WGN Radio” and show WGN and Johnyour love.

And John, call your #1 fan, Francesca Bellezza manager Michael Bassarab and he'll kick in a dinner for four to the lucky "best sign" winner. Francesca's telephone is (708) 579-3500.

Jennifer Husdon to appear at Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center

2012-01-13T10:16:00.000-06:00

Superstarsongstress and academy award winning actress, Jennifer Hudson is making her wayback to her home city! With her new bookfresh off the press, the Chicago-native will be making a stop at Barnes &Noble at the Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center (55 Old Orchard Center, Skokie,IL 60077, 847-676-2230) for a booksigning 7 p.m. Tuesday, January 17.

Her book, entitled, “I Got This: How I Changed My Waysand Lost What Weighed Me Down," highlights her struggles with weight loss;and how she in the process of learning to live a healthy lifestyle. We first fell in love with Jennifer duringher stint as a contestant on American Idol back in 2004 and watched as shecatapulted to superstardom in both music and acting. In addition to her lucrative career, she isnow a spokes model for Weight Watchers and has reportedly lost 80 pounds!

Come be the first to get your own copy of her new booksigned at Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center. Free numbered tickets will be given outbeginning at 4pm to customers with a copy of Hudson’s new book and proof ofpurchase from B&N or bn.com.

Customers also will be allowed to have up to 2 CDs signed; these items must bepurchased at B&N Old Orchard on the day of the event. No other memorabiliawill be signed.

Only the first 300 people will be guaranteed a signed book. Ms. Hudson willsign more than 300 only if time allows.

Jermann Wine Dinner slated at two Francesca's

2012-01-13T09:30:00.000-06:00

Mia Francesca and Francesca's Passaggio are hosting Jermann Winery with a four-course dinner paired with Italian wines from Jermann.

January 24, 7 p.m. – Mia Francesca (3311 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60657; 773-281-3310)
January 25, 7 p.m. – Francesca’s Passaggio (3124 S. Route 59, Naperville, IL 60564; 630-946-0600)

Damon Lawson of Epsom Imports will be in attendance to speak about the wines during the evening. Tickets are $65 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.

The evening begins with Rilletts di Salmone, salmon rillet crostini with celery, pink grapefruit and mint, paired with a delicious Canella Prosecco di Conegliano. The second course is Scallop Escabecio with honey crisp apple, celery and tarragon partnered with Jermann’s Pinot Grigio. This is followed by Prosciutto di Parma with pickled acorn squash, pear, arugula, hazelnuts and saba. Jermann’s Sauvignon Blanc makes a delightful companion for this course. The fourth course features Black Pepper Papardelle with Forrest mushrooms, cipollini onion and taleggio cream. This is with Jermann’s delightful Red Angel "by the moonlight." The meal finishes with Pancetta Wrapped Loin of Berkshire Pork with white beans, ham hocks, braised petite turnips and greens. This is paired with the Jermann "Blau Blau" as a perfect ending to the meal.

Put on your dancing shoes. Latin Dance lessons at Chicago French Market

2012-01-12T07:20:00.001-06:00

Looking for something different on a cold Saturday afternoon? How about learning a few new dances? The Chicago French Market is offering Latin Dance lessons11 a.m. to 1 p.m. January 14. Two dances will be featured: Bachata and Salsa. A DJ will spin a Latin mix of music to keep your toes tapping. The first 45 minutes will consist of lessons from an instructor of the Latin Street Dancing School followed by 60 minutes of open dance with the instructor and your fellow students. It’s a great way to knock those holiday pounds off and start the New Year.

Italian Piedmont Wine Dinners at Francesca's Chicago-area Locations

2012-01-10T09:30:00.000-06:00

Three Chicago-area Francesca's Restaurants are hosting Italian Piedmont wine dinners featuring the wines of Michele Chiarlo, a modernist in a very traditional region.

January 19, 7 p.m. – Francesca’s by the River (200 S. Second St., St. Charles, IL 60174; 630-587-8221)
January 24, 7 p.m. – Francesca’s Famiglia (100 E. Station St., Barrington, Il 60010; 847-277-1027)
January 27, 7 p.m. – Francesca’s Vicinato (12960 S. LaGrange Rd., Palos Park, IL 60465; 708-671-1600)

Gino Catalano, a Chicago native and an Italian wine importer Kobrand Corp., will be speaking about the wines during the evening as well. This five-course meal is $65 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.
The meal starts with Ostrica Crudo, Kumamodo oysters with pear, lemon and basil paired with a 2010 Michele Chiarlo Gavi. This is followed by Polpo Grigliato, grilled octopus with fagioli gigantic, marinated sundried tomatoes and lemon vinaigrette. This pairs excellently with a 2009 Barbera d’ Asti "Le Orme." The third course features Coniglio Cacciatore, braised rabbit with crushed San Marzano tomato sauce, cipollini onions and herbs. A 2008 Barbaresco makes a great pair for this course. Filetto e Tartufo, grilled filet mignon with truffled risotto follows this course and makes a superb pair for a 2007 Barolo "Tortoniano." The evening ends with Chiacchera al Limone, fried dough with ricotta dolce, lemon curd and acacia honey. This is the perfect companion for a 2010 Moscato "Nivole."

Piedmont tasting at Davanti
Davanti Enoteca (1359 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL 60607; 312-226-5550) is hosting an informal wine tasting and Question and Answer Session with Gino Catalano of Italian importer Kobrand Corp. 7 p.m. Monday, January 23. Guests will be able to taste Piedmont wines while Catalano shares his insights and answers questions. Davanti Enoteca will also have unique chef’s pairings at this tasting event.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Grand Chefs Gala January 27 Oscar-like Benefit for Foodies

2012-01-10T08:30:00.000-06:00

GRAND CHEFS GALA

¡VIVA LA REVOLUCIÓN! Come celebrate the 15th annual Grand Chefs Gala/Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence 6 p.m. Friday, January 27. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is again bringing Chicago’s finest chefs to the stunning Fairmont Chicago, Millennium (200 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago). The diverse collection of award-winning culinary artists will each prepare and present their signature dishes for more than 750 guests. Your senses will be liberated when ¡Havana! showcases mouth-watering food, festive decór, and premium silent and live auction items. The Oscar-like atmosphere will be abuzz when the Jean Banchet Awards are bestowed upon Chicago’s outstanding chefs, restaurants, catering companies, mixologists, and sommeliers in their respective categories. The only weapons you'll need for this insurgence are hope, joy, generosity, kinship and, above all, celebration. !VIVA PARA UNA CURA!

This year's chef chair is Curtis Duffy of Grace. More than 40 chefs and mixologists will be featured including Davanti Enoteca’s Jonathan Beatty. Other chefs and their respective restaurants include: Blackbird, David Posey; The Bristol, Chris Pandel; Gaetano's, Gaetano DiBenedetto; Heaven on Seven, Jimmy Bannos; Inovasi, John des Rosiers; Lockwood, Greg Elliott; Mercadito, Patricio Sandoval; Piccolo Sogno, Tony Priolo; The Purple Pig, Jimmy Bannos, Jr.; Rockit Bar & Grill, James Gottwald & Amanda Downing;Vie, Nathan Sears;

The Fairmont Chicago, Brad Parsons; BOKA, , James Gottwald & Amanda Downing; The Bristol and Balena, Amanda Rockman; Pump Room at Public Chicago, Kady Yon; and Sarah's Pastries and Candies, Sarah Levy.

Visit here for a complete list of chefs and mixologists. Purchase tickets here.

EVENING PROGRAM

5:30pm – 6:30pm
VIP Reception – Ambassador Room
for silver sponsors and above and their guests

6:00pm
Cocktail Reception and Hors d’oeuvres – International Ballroom
featuring Chicago ’s Finest Chefs

8:00pm
Dinner and Program – Imperial Ballroom
featuring dinner prepared by The Fairmont Chicago Chef, Brad Parsons
Master of Ceremonies - Steve Dolinsky
Presentation of the Founders' Award
Presentation of the Jean Banchet Awards presented by Chef Jean Banchet
Presentation of Eurest People's Choice Award
Live Auction, Bid for a Cure and Silent Auction

9:30pm – 12:00am
Nightcap - Imperial Ballroom
featuring Chicago ’s Finest Pastry Chefs and Chicago ’s Hottest Mixologists
Dancing to live music by Matt Lewis and The Union

Black Tie Preferred

TICKET INFORMATION

All proceeds help benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's research for a cure.

Please see our Sponsorship page for information on table purchases and sponsorship info.

Individual Ticket $400 (includes Nightcap)
$235 of each ticket is tax deductible.

"Nightcap" Ticket $75
$55 of each ticket is tax deductible.
9:30p-12:00a
Desserts, Mixologists and Dancing

[Side note] Attention all charities and non-profits: Do you have an event or news that you'd like to publicize? Here at Kurman Communications, we are proud to feature FRT- Free Release Tuesdays. Send us news on your upcoming event, including links, photos, etc. We'll pick our top selections and post them right here on the Got Buzz blog! Got Buzz receives thousands of page views monthly by consumers and journalists who are looking for things to do and content to feature. KCI is pleased to help you spread the news!

Winter Metropolitan Brewery Beer Dinner at Francesca's Amici & La Sorella di Francesc

2012-01-07T08:30:00.000-06:00

Two Francesca locations are hosting Metropolitan Brewery beer dinners this month. Make your reservation to enjoy a four-course meal featuring delicious food selections paired with Metropolitan Brewery beers. Metropolitan Brewery is a new microbrewery in Chicago run by husband and wife team Doug and Tracy Hurst. This four-course meal is $35 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.

January 18, 7 p.m. – Francesca’s Amici (174 N. York Rd., Elmhurst, IL 60126; 630-279-7970) January 31, 7 p.m. – La Sorella di Francesca (18 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville, IL 60540; 630-961-2706)

The evening begins with Polpo Grigliato, grilled octopus with fagioli gigantic, marinated sundried tomatoes and lemon vinaigrette paired with Krankshaft, a pale ale. This is followed by Polpetti Agnello, lamb meatballs with spicy San Marzano tomato sauce, arugula and lemon. It is a perfect pair for FlyWheel, a German-inspired beer. The third course features Gnocchi con Pancetta, sweet potato gnocchi with cipollini onions, pancetta and brown-butter sage. A strong, smooth beer, Dynamo, makes the perfect companion. The meal finishes with Brasato di Bue, beer-braised beef ribs with parsnip puree, and is paired with IronWorks, a hoppy, top-fermented beer.

It’s back. Fleming’s popular Prime Rib Sunday deal - $29.95

2012-01-05T17:28:00.000-06:00

Prime Rib Sundays are reason tocelebrate at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Every Sunday in January and February5, guests will be treated to an awesome special, a 3-course prime rib dinnerfor $29.95!

The dinner features 12 ounces ofsucculent Prime Rib serviced with a trio of sauces: Au jus, Horseradish andDijon; choice of The Wedge, Fleming’s or Caesar salads, and one side dish anddessert.

Known for its extensive wine list and 100 wines by the glass, Fleming's recommends enjoying Raymond, Napa Valley Sommelier Selection Cabernet Sauvignon $8.75 per glass; $35 per bottle with your prime rib dinner.

Make your reservationsearly for the AFC/NFC Championship Games. Fleming’s offers television viewingin its two bar lounge areas where you can enjoy their popular “5 for $6 ‘til 7”*bar menu featuring 5 premium cocktails, 5 award-winning wines by the glass, and5 signature appetizers – all priced at $6 each, a stellar value. (5 for 6 ‘til 7 signature appetizers menu isavailable only until 7 p.m., 7 days a week.)

Fleming’s Prime Rib Sundays menu is available at both Chicago-area locations; Chicago: 25 East Ohio, 312/329-9463; and Lincolnshire:960 Milwaukee Ave, Lincolnshire, IL 847-793-0333.

About Sommelier Selection Cabernet Sauvignon

The winemaking team, along with Jean-Charles Boisset hosted the blending series at Raymond with seven influential sommeliers. From this blending session, the Sommelier Selection was crafted.The blending session started with background on the individual components, and the framework for the blending exercise. Teams of two were paired together and asked to submit their preferred blends from two Napa Cabernets, one Napa Cabernet Franc, one Napa Merlot, one Sonoma Cabernet, one Sonoma Merlot, and one Lake County Cabernet. Each team crafted two favorite blends, and submitted them for review by the panel of sommeliers and the Raymond winemaking team. A blind taste test and ranking revealed the winning blend.

The Sandwich King Returns to Chicago French Market This Saturday

2012-01-05T13:55:00.000-06:00

Do you lovesandwiches? Are you an avid viewer of the Food Network?

The Sandwich King himself, Jeff Mauro

Then chancesare you’re a fan of the Sandwich King, Chicago native Jeff Mauro. A few weeksago, he visited the Chicago French Market to start filming for the secondseason of his Food Network show. This Saturday, January 7, he is coming back tofilm starting at 11 a.m. We encourage his fans and Chicago French Market devotees to stop on by.

With delicious sandwich offerings like Fumare’s incrediblepastrami (don't forget that Hot Pastrami Day is January 14)) and the variety of options at Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine,we know he’ll have plenty to talk about.

Fumare's incredible pastrami sandwich

Chicago French Market is a hot spot for lunch. Stop by this Saturday afternoon to get a behind-the-scenes look at thefilming of the show and to enjoy some of the excellent sandwiches their vendorshave to offer! When you see the Sandwich King in action, we’re sure you’ll be asbig of a fan of his and the French Market as we are.

Pastoral's Chef's Choice Sandwich Tray

El Mayor Tequila Dinner Tonight at Fat Rosie's

2012-01-04T08:30:00.000-06:00

Fat Rosie’s Taco & Tequila Bar (1890 W. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174; 630-762-0235) is hosting the El Mayor Tequila dinner 7 p.m. tonight (Wednesday, January 4). This five-course meal features a delicious Pear Margarita with a selection of El Mayor Tequilas. Tickets are $50 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.

The meal starts with Shredded Venison Tostaditas with a pineapple salsa and habanero chile. This is followed by Ahi Tuna Tartar with roasted yellow peppers, grilled pear and mango and a Jicama salad. The third course features Grilled Jumbo Shrimp in a vanilla sauce with white rice and roasted red peppers and is followed by Grilled Pork Loin in manchamanteles mole with sweet mashed potatoes, grilled pineapple and chorizo. The meal ends with a Chocolate Cajeta Tres Leches Cake with mocha frosting and Cajeta sauce.

Lobster Tail Tuesdays at Maxwell's at the Club - Tonight

2012-01-03T15:29:00.001-06:00

Ready for a great post holiday dinner? Tonight and every Tuesday, Maxwell's at the Club (East Bank Club, 500 N. Kingsbury St., 312-527-5800 ext. 301) features a fabulous lobster dinner for only $38.50. Enjoy succulent, cold-water twin lobster tails broiled to perfection and served with vegetables of the day. Reservations are recommended.

Can't make it tonight, mark your calendar for next Tuesday, or visit another night. Maxwell's offers a full lunch, dinner and bar menu as well as a weekly Sunday Brunch, Friday Italian Night, and a complete Small Plates menu.

Maxwell's also is the perfect spot to meet friends after work. Stop by to enjoy dinner and live entertainment every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

2012 Chicago Culinary Scene Starts with Bang: Charlie Trotter to close his world-renowned Chicago Eatery

2012-01-01T15:54:00.002-06:00

In a special to the Chicago Sun-Times today, food editor Janet RausaFuller reported that renowned chefCharlie Trotter will close his famous Chicago Eatery Charlie Trotter’s, 816 W.Armitage, this August, after 25 years in business.

Trotter, 52, iscalling this a “sabbatical,” though. He plans to travel the world with hiswife, Rochelle, and go back to school to study philosophy and political theory.He said he’s been accepted into three graduate programs, two in Chicago and one in California.

Read the complete story here: http://www.suntimes.com/9725535-417/charlie-trotter-to-close-his-world-famous-chicago-restaurant.html#.TwC9uCRxJWc.email

Got Buzz at Kurman Communications, Inc.

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