Category Archives: DneWise

Oceanique Celebrates Julia Child’s 101th Birthday with a Lobster Dish that Julia Would Have Been Proud to Serve

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Wild Maine LobsterOceanique Restaurant in Evanston, Illinois (505 Main Street, Evanston, IL; 847-864-3435) will be participating in the 2013 Julia Child Bash sponsored by Chicago Originals ( www.chicagooriginals.com), from August 15-31, celebrating the 101th birthday of the famed French cookbook author and television icon. During this celebration, Oceanique is honoring the memory of Julia Child with their Wild Maine Lobster entrée (with tropea onion, basil potatoes, and yuzu-saffron), priced at $24.

“Julia Child was very fond of lobsters,” says Chef Mark Grosz. “On her TV show, The French Chef , she described them as ‘unique and beautiful, with a marvelous taste and really just like nothing else.’ She also said that lobster was a ‘special gastronomic experience.’ We consider Julia to be marvelous and like no one else, a person who made French gastronomy a special experience for millions of Americans. That’s why lobster is the cornerstone of our Julia Child 101th birthday celebration. We call our lobster entrée, simply, ‘Wild Maine Lobster.’ The dish includes tropea onion, basil potatoes and yuzu-saffron, and is priced at $24. We think Julia would have been very pleased with our lobster rendition.”

With roots in classic French culinary technique, Oceanique has evolved into a Contemporary Global restaurant. “It’s an evolution of which we believe Julia, as a food adventurer, would have heartily approved,” said Grosz. “We continue to use the freshest, locally available ingredients, clearly in the French tradition, and we use classic French techniques to bring out the wonderful flavor of the ingredients. What has changed at Oceanique, over the years, is our introduction of lighter ingredients into the menu and our greater use of fresh herbs, both of which reflect today’s contemporary preferences. We’ve also been inspired by our global culinary travels and so you’ll find ingredients from around the world.”

The highly acclaimed Oceanique has been voted the best seafood restaurant in the Chicago area by the Zagat Guide since 1993 and has earned the prestigious “Best Of” Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator every year since 1994. Wine Spectator has declared Oceanique as having one of the top 750 wine lists in the world.

Oceanique recently celebrated its 25th anniversary by undergoing a complete re-design. The new, contemporary look is light, airy and comfortable, with new lighting that brings out the beauty of Chef Grosz’s superb cuisine. Oceanique’s ambiance remains relaxed and hospitable, making it the perfect setting for food and wine lovers. Additional changes include a new bar and lounge menu featuring shareable small plates.

Oceanique, located at 505 Main Street in Evanston, Illinois, serves dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday and from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. For more information or to make reservations, please contact Oceanique at 847-864-3435 or visit the website at www.oceanique.com.

Hydroponically Grown Ravinia School Lettuce Featured at Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook

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Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris

Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris

Chicago North Shore restaurant, Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd.; Northbrook, IL.; 847-205-4433) has partnered with Ravinia School students by featuring their hydroponically grown lettuce on the menu. Each week the members of the Green Growers Club along with program head, third grade teacher Dennis Brosseau, deliver a shipment of freshly harvested green butter lettuce to Prairie Grass Cafe chefs Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris. The lettuce is featured as the special Ravinia School Salad that is served with blue cheese dressing, apple slices and warm croutons ($9.50).

“The lettuce is delicious and the children have been a joy to work with. It’s rewarding to see their energy and enthusiasm. Supporting this in-school project is foundational in what we hope to achieve at Prairie Grass Cafe. Our country’s future is dependent on the health and education of our children. Our partnership with Ravinia Elementary School hits to the heart of how business and community can work together to empower our children. Everyone benefits. I strongly believe that having a food curriculum in school is paramount. The kids get to see where food comes from beginning to end and each step of the way. It changes the way they think and ultimately educates them in making smarter food choices,” said Sarah Stegner.

“The experience has been wonderful!” remarked Brosseau. “Sarah, George, and Dan [Sviland, general manager of Prairie Grass Cafe] have embraced the opportunity to feature our product. We deliver it by 4:15 p.m. each Friday, and it sells out by Sunday. My family and friends have eaten the salad at the Cafe and it is wonderful like all of their food.”

The Green Growers Club operates in two sessions; from September to April they focus on the hydroponically grown lettuce. Thirty-five students are involved in the program, divided into five teams. The school’s greenhouse contains seven growing tables where students plant the lettuce on a staggered basis, ensuring a crop harvest each week. Every Monday additional plants are germinated. By 4 p.m. Friday, 24 to 36 heads of lettuce are ready to be harvested and sold to Prairie Grass Café as well as teachers, the Highland Park Board of Education, and to other buyers.

In April for the spring session, the club switches its focus to soil plants. Students in grades kindergarten through second grade plant dwarf sunflower plants. By May the students have an opportunity to present those plants as Mother’s Day gifts. The third grade students will plant and nurture upwards of 600 zinnia and cockscomb celosia plants to sell at the upcoming Third Grade Plant Sale in early June. Several hundred of these plants can be found throughout the school, beautifying the grounds. Students also grow medium sized tomato plants and basil pots to sell. The Green Growers Club follows the students throughout their time at Ravinia, and when the students are ready to move on to another school they are gifted with a potted basil plant.

The program was started by now retired teacher, Paul Grant, “My friend… now retired, started growing basil hydroponically in his classroom many years ago. I apprenticed with a table in my classroom, too. In 1999 he approached the Parent Teacher Organization about building a greenhouse for the students to use. After a conscientious fund raising effort by the parents and staff, the greenhouse was built in 2000. The Green Growers Club grew basil, Paul’s baby, for many years. When he retired, I took over and lettuce became our main cash crop, along with the annual, June Third Grade Plant Sale,” said Brosseau.

About Hydroponics
Hydroponics is a controlled system, used as an alternative to growing plants in soil. The process yields a consistent quality product with little or no trouble from the natural elements such as insects, pests and weather. The entire process produces a tasty and nutritious plant.

About Ravinia School
Ravinia School is located at 763 Dean Avenue, Highland Park, IL on Chicago’s North Shore. The school currently serves more than 300 kindergarteners through fifth grade students. Ravinia now has 20 classrooms and 8 additional instructional areas including a greenhouse. More information can be found by calling (224) 765-3700 or by visiting www.edline.net/pages/Ravinia_ES.

About Prairie Grass Cafe
Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd.; Northbrook, IL; 847-205-4433) supports Chicago’s Green City Market and local sustainable farms, selecting the freshest ingredients to reflect the season. Prairie Grass Cafe currently serves lunch Monday – Friday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner Monday through Sunday. Dinner is served Tuesday – Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Monday and Sunday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Prairie Grass Cafe also serves breakfast Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays 9:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Light fare is available in the bar Monday through Friday 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, please call (847) 205-4433 or visit www.prairiegrasscafe.com.

Chicago Dining and Gift Ideas for a Romantic Valentine’s Day 2013

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It isn’t too early to start planning for Valentine’s Day and there’s plenty of choices through Chicagoland from which to choose. From Prix Fixe menus to caviar and champagne for two, your options to treat your special Valentine are endless.


Benny’s Chop House on Valentine’s Day is Just Right: A Warm, Beautiful Setting, Great Food and Drink plus Top-notch Live Jazz

When planning this year’s Valentine’s Day celebration, you will want everything to be just right. Look no further than to Benny’s Chop House (444 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL, 312-626-2444), one of Chicago’s most beautiful restaurants – warm and cozy – and yes, romantic, with many specialty cocktails and wine choices to stimulate your senses.

Benny’s menu of perfectly prepared dishes set the stage for a passionate celebration. Top that off with Benny’s flawless service and a terrific live jazz performance by Cecile Savage and Calvin “Koco” Brunson who perform in both French and English-sexy, indeed; express yourself.

Begin your Valentine’s Day with one of the many Champagne selections from Benny’s award winning wine list, which has earned the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Champagne selections by the glass include Château de Lisennes Crèmant Bordeaux and Henriet-Bazin Selection Montagne de Reims.

Benny’s also features one of Chicago’s finest international wine collections, with 25 selections by the glass and more than 1,500 selections by the bottle.

Shellfish TowerOysters have long been thought to have aphrodisiac properties and so, for starters, Benny suggests Oysters on the half shell, featuring eight different varieties from the American East and West Coast, flown in daily (half dozen, $14.99; dozen, $26.99). Other tasty starters include the unique House-Cured Maple Glazed Bacon ($14.99) and Prime Steak Tartare, served with waffle potato chips and violet mustard ($14.99).

You’ll also create an impressive start to your Valentine’s Day by sharing Benny’s magnificent Shellfish Tower for Two ($69.99). It’s a generous, delectable appetizer meant for sharing, featuring chilled lobster, shrimp and king crab.

Continue your Valentine’s Day celebration with flavorful salads such as the Roasted Beets Salad with goat cheese croquettes, black mission figs in bourbon-maple vinaigrette ($14.99), or Benny’s celebrated Grilled Romaine Salad with lemon-garlic vinaigrette ($8.99).

Benny’s will more than satisfy your culinary cravings with its selection of superb entrées. Benny recommends specialty seafood choices such as the one pound Whole Maine Lobster Tail, broiled to perfection ($49.99) or the Jumbo Sea Scallops served with crispy pumpkin polenta and a port wine reduction ($35.99). Meat lovers will enjoy the tender, perfectly grilled Colorado Lamb Chops ($42.99) and the comforting Red Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs ($24.99). For the best of both worlds, enjoy the Surf-N-Turf Style, featuring an 8 oz. Filet Mignon and a 10 oz. Cape Breton lobster tail ($52.99).

If steak is what’s on your calling card, Benny’s has Chicago’s Sliced USDA Prime Filet Mignon022 most diverse selections. Choose from its menu of perfectly prepared 100% USDA Prime natural, dry-aged or wet aged steaks, including the USDA Prime Natural 7 oz. Filet Mignon ($36.99), the USDA Prime Natural 16 oz. Rib Eye ($42.99) and USDA Prime New York Strip (available with or without bone in – wet aged, dry aged and natural from $36.99 to $54.99) or Surf-N-Turf Style , 8 oz. Filet and 10 oz. Cape Breton Lobster Tail (52.99). Kick it up a notch by adding an enhancement “Benny’s – style” to your steak, such as Bone Marrow, Oscar Style, King Crab, Blue Cheese, Maine Sea Scallop, Béarnaise, and Barbecue Chili Rub, among others.

Your after-dinner foreplay will begin with Benny’s amazing desserts. They’re generous and shareable, but they’re so good you’ll each want your own. Try the classic Carrot Cake ($8.99) made with roasted walnuts and sweet cream cheese frosting or the decadent Chocolate Layer Cake ($10.99) frosted with fudge buttercream, and garnished with rich chocolate sauce. Another unique creation is the Chocolate Pudding Cake ($9.99) accompanied by toffee ice cream and finished with a caramel crunch. And don’t forget the to-die-for Banana Cream Pie ($8.99) with caramel coated bananas.

Valentine’s Day Entertainment Featuring:  Jazz Artists Cecile Savage and Calvin “Koco” Brunson

This distinguished duo will pair their harmonic melodies with music fueled by African, French, and Brazilian traditions. They will be performing on Valentine’s Day from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Join them in the North Lounge and Bar and let their music transport you to another place.Cécile Savage was born in the Island of Martinique yet raised in Paris, France. She studied piano for many years and brought that knowledge with her when she moved to New York City and joined the Living Theater. Later she studied guitar with Ted Dunbar through the program Jazzmobile. She increased her repertoire to include electric bass with the blues harmonica legend Sugar Blue while she toured with Memphis Slim and Willie Mabon. Subsequently, she moved to Chicago and performed jazz and blues with many notable musicians such as Jimmy Dawkins. Ultimately, this led her to perform at the 2008 Jazz Festival: Tribute to Malachi Favors. All this shaped Cécile’s musical identity to comprise of a blend of French Cabaret and American Jazz.

Pianist and vocalist Calvin “Koco” Brunson’s accomplishments range from being the musical director for “Ain’t Misbehavin” to “The Great Nitty Gritty” and “Journey Through Forever.” He also won the prized Jeff award for the musical composition “In De Beginnin”.  Being the cultural ambassador for the city of Chicago has led him to perform in European festivals like Moers in Germany, and Nichelsdorff in Austria.

Bistro Voltaire
Bistro Voltaire (226 W. Chicago Ave. Chicago IL; 312-265-0911), Chicago’s most romantic French bistro nestled in the heart of River North, is offering a special three course Prix Fixe Menu for Valentine’s Day curated by Chef Farid Oualidi. The first course offers a choice between Risotto aux arômes de truffes (truffle scented risotto and porcini mushrooms), Salade de Jambon et melo (fresh melon and cured ham salad, parmesan tuile and port reduction), Potage d’asperges a lachaire de crabe (asparagus veloute topped with crab meat) and Huîtres gratinées (baked fresh oysters with Champagne Sabayon).

The second course is an exquisite selection of Filet Mignon au Roquefort (roasted beef tenderloin, Potato Anna, baby vegetables, blue cheese sauce), Loup de mer Provencal (seared Mediterranean Sea bass, braised cherry tomatoes, baby artichokes, bouillabaisse sauce, olive tapenade) and Magret de Canard aigre doux (pan roasted duck breast, glazed apples, wild rice cake, sweet and sour reduction).

The menu speaks for itself yet the romanticism is magnified by the warm decor and cozy Parisian bistro atmosphere. To finish up this meal, only truly decadent dessert options will do. Take your pick of Charlotte aux fraises, Mousse au Chocolat and Fruit de la Passion parfait.

Maxwell’s at the Club’s
Lobster Tail TuesdaysOn Valentine’s Day, Maxwell’s at the Club (500 N. Kingsbury St. Chicago IL) is offering a Prix Fixe four course meal, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. You and your guest will be treated to an appetizer, salad, entrée and dessert. Appetizers include the choice of Pan Roasted Scallops and Cocoa Crusted Pulled Pork. Types of salads available include Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese and Baby Red Romaine. The entrée course will feature Petite Filet and Lobster Tail, Pan Roasted Snapper, Roasted New York Strip Loin and Rotisserie Amish Chicken.

For dessert, choose from a Pistachio and White Chocolate Torte, Ginger Crème Brûlée and more. Make your reservations for Maxwell’s Valentine’s Day Dinner, $45 a person, by calling (312) 527-5800 ext. 301.

Prairie Grass Cafe
Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd. Northbrook, IL; 847-205-4433) is the perfect family friendly place to spend Valentine’s Day. This restaurant focuses on locally grown fresh and organic ingredients.  Chefs Sarah Stegner and George Bambaris invite families to enjoy Valentine’s day by ordering off the regular menu, no special Valentine’s pricing. Entrées like the Lake Superior White Fish with Portobello mushrooms, sautéed broccoli, and lemon butter sauce ($21) and Crispy Half Duck from “Maple Leaf Farm” with rainbow Swiss chard, herb stuffing “cake” and sautéed pear ($28) are two of the tasty treats that await you at Prairie Grass Cafe.

Chicago French Market- Bello Tea
Spending Valentine’s Day at home or going to a potluck party? Bello Tea at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago; 312-380-0707), has offered up delicious recipes for two tasty Valentine’s Day drinks. The Bello Mojito is made with delicious hibiscus spearmint tea, freshly squeezed lime juice, sparkling water and finished with a touch of sweetness. Try your hand at making Lara’s Caipirinha Bubbly ”Champagne.” This easily prepared drink combines Bello Organic Lara’s Caipirinha Herbal Tea with sparkling juice or champa gne with a fresh strawberry. Look below for step by step instructions on how to prepare both of these drinks.

Bello Mojito
Serves 2

MojitoetIngredients:

  • 8 oz. of Bello Hibiscus Spearmint Tea   
  • 1 oz. of Fresh squeezed lime juice
  • 2 oz. of Simple Syrup ( ½  water, ½ sugar)
  • 1 oz. of Sparkling Water
  • Fresh mint
  • Slices of lime

Preparation:
Brew Hibiscus Spearmint Tea and chill it until ready to prepare. In a martini shaker, muddle mint and lime slices together. Add simple syrup, lime juice and tea. To that add ice and shake well. Strain it into a martini glass and add sparkling water. Garnish with a mint sprig and a slice of lime. For a fun twist add your favorite rum. Substitute sugar with agave, if preferred.

Brewing Hibiscus Spearmint Tea
Add 2 tsp. of Hibiscus Spearmint tea to a tea pot then add 8 oz. of boiling water. Let it brew for 5 minutes. Strain and chill.

Lara’s Caipirinha Bubbly ‘Champagne’

Ingredients:Lara's Carpirinhaet

  • 1-2 oz. of Bello Organic Lara’s Caipirinha Herbal Tea
  • 6 oz. of Sparkling Juice or Champagne
  • Fresh raspberry or strawberry

Preparation:
Pour Sparkling Juice or Champagne into a glass. Add Lara’s Caipirinha tea and garnish with fresh raspberry or strawberry.

Brewing Organic Lara’s Caipirinha
Add 3 tsp. of Lara’s Caipirinha to a tea pot, and then add 8 oz. of boiling water. Let it brew for 5 minutes. Strain and chill. It yields 4-8 servings.

Chicago French Market – Delightful Pastries
Delightful Pastries at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago) has arranged an assortment of gift packages filled with delicious pastries and sweets for Valentine’s Day. Treat your sweetie to a dozen fresh strawberries dipped in bittersweet dark chocolate and drizzled with white chocolate ($25). Delightful Pastries also has a Chocolate Raspberry Ganache Tart ($30), this luscious treat is a sweet buttery tart layered with chocolate ganache and covered in fresh raspberries.

The Heart Shaped Chocolate Mousse Torte ($6.75) is perfect for two to share. This moist chocolate sponge cake is layered with chocolate mousse and decorated with rosettes of whipped cream. Also Delightful Pastries has a number of Valentine’s Day gifts under $20. These mini bundles include an assortment of raspberry and chocolate Parisian macarons, beautifully decorated gingerbread and sugar cookies, sweet gift boxes of handmade truffles and other chocolates. Place your orders at (312) 234-9644.

Delightful Pastries gift options don’t end there. Here are two gift box packages with loads of Valentine’s Day goodies.

Sweetheart Gift Box- $30

  • ginger bread and sugar cookie hearts
  • small box of raspberry and chocolate Parisian macarons
  • cookie bag of your choice
  • ¼  lb. handmade chocolate bark or ¼  lb. handmade truffles


You’re Amazing Gift Box- $50

  • heart cookie sandwich with chocolate butter cream
  • black and white cookie and cupcake
  • large box of raspberry, passion fruit and chocolate Parisian macarons
  • box of rum balls and chocolate pecan turtles
  • maple cranberry almond granola
  • two chocolate dipped strawberries


Chicago French Market- Lavazza Espression
Strawberry Espessone sendLavazza Espression at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago; 312-207-0500) is featuring two special Valentine specials, the Strawberry Èspessone™ and a gift with purchase promotion.

Strawberry Èspessone™ (small $2.95 – large 3.75)
It’s love at first taste with a fresh and velvety strawberry foam layered over decadent Italian drinking chocolate or a smooth espresso shot.

Lovely Shopper Promotion
Receive a complimentary “Falling in Love with Coffee” Shopper tote with the purchase of a pound of whole bean coffee ($13.50 – $14.75) through February 14.

Chicago French Market- Vanille Patisserie
Vanille Patisserie, the French bakery at Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago), is offering a variety of Valentine’s Day treats for the big day. In lovely heart shaped pre-packaged chocolate, Vanilla and Raspberry Macarons are available in sizes of 8 ($15) and 18 ($32) pieces. Vanille’s French Conversation Sugar Cookies ($3 each), Mascarpone Heart Cheesecake ($5.75 serves 1) and heart boxes of handmade chocolates also are available (3 piece $5.95, ½ lb. box $25, 1 lb. box $47). Place your orders at (312) 575-9963.

 

Vanille_Patisserie_Valentines-HI-7et valentine cookieset Vanille_Patisserie_Valentines-HI-16et

Chicago French Market- Wisma
Wisma LasagnaetFor an affordable, organic and local dining option for Valentine’s Day, Wisma at the Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton St., Chicago; 312-382-1805)  will be offering holiday savings consisting of 25% off any two dinners when purchased February 13-14. Try Wisma’s featured Vegetable Lasagna ($11) or Shells Carbonara ($9).

Give your Sweetie the gift of Visual Freedom with Lasik
LasikThis Valentine’s Day your loved one might be expecting chocolates or a fancy night on the town. But you can give her a lifetime of perfect vision with Lasik from Doctors for Visual Freedom (875 North Michigan Avenue Suite 1550, Chicago, IL 60611; 312-291-9957). With an office in the John Hancock Center on the Magnificent Mile, Dr. Golden is one of the earliest pioneers in the techniques of Lasik, having performing over 23,000 procedures.

If she already possesses 20/20 vision then you can help her bring back a more youthful glow with Botox® Cosmetic. For the special price of $12 per unit, women everywhere have been improving their appearance by ridding away extra fine lines. This Valentine’s Day, stop in to Dr. Golden’s office for Botox ® Cosmetic and learn more about the wonders of Lasik.

Prairie Grass Cafe Plates Up a February Full of New Dishes

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The farm-to-table restaurant Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd.; Northbrook, IL; 847-205-4433) is offering weekly specials to help combat the winter blues. Each Thursday evening, the family friendly North Shore eatery will feature a unique dish created by Chefs Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris. Additionally, the chefs are offering a Super Bowl Sunday Brunch and a delicious new Poached Pear Almond Financier dessert.

Thursday Night Game Specials
Each Thursday during the month of February, Prairie Grass Cafe will feature a unique dinner special. February 7 features Braised Duck in Red Wine Sauce with mushrooms, pearl onions and a layered potato, garlic and cream gratin ($28).

Valentine’s Day, February 14, features an assortment of special dishes. One option is a BBQ Pair of Quails with sage stuffing, sweet potato fries and apple slaw ($26). Another is the 1¼ lb. Maine Lobster “Out of the Shell” with fettuccine, vegetables and a rich lobster sauce ($32). The third choice is a “High Plains” Bison Filet with roasted winter vegetables and potatoes ($45).

On Thursday, February 21, a featured attraction is the Saddle of Rabbit with Mustard Sauce Braised Rabbit Legs served with sautéed spinach, onion, mushroom and bacon ($26). On February 28 guests can feast on the Braised Oxtail Ragout over creamy polenta and accompanied with Rainbow Swiss chard, leeks and kale ($18), with the option of adding on a Grass-fed Beef Tenderloin Filet (4 oz. $15, 8 oz. $30).

Prairie Grass Cafe will be open for lunch and dinner on all Thursdays in February; the full menu will be available in addition to the specials.

New Dessert
Each month throughout 2013 Prairie Grass Cafe will feature a new comfort dessert. This February, the chefs will be offering the Poached Pear Almond Financier. This light and moist French cake is a perfect way to finish up an exceptionally comforting meal at the Northbrook restaurant.

About Prairie Grass Cafe
Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd.; Northbrook, IL.; 847-205-4433) supports Chicago’s Green City Market and local sustainable farms, selecting the freshest ingredients to reflect the season. Prairie Grass Cafe currently serves lunch Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner is served Monday and Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Prairie Grass Cafe also serves brunch Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday, 9:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Light fare is available in the bar Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, please call (847) 205-4433 or visit www.prairiegrasscafe.com.

Eurofest 2013 at the Chicago French Market February 9

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Join the Chicago French Market for a showcase of European fare, artisan vendors and specialty food products, Saturday, February 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy intimate tastings, shop for European foods and beverages, listen to European music and watch demonstrations throughout the day. The Chicago French Market is located at 131 North Clinton St. between Washington and Randolph. Covered, ground-level parking is available in the MetraMarket parking lot located just north of Randolph with entrances from both Canal and Clinton. If you park for one hour or less, parking is free when your purchases total $20 or more at the market (receipts required for proof of purchase). #Eurofest

Bello Tea
Featuring English Tea Latte: English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Earl Grey Lavender, Earl Grey de la Crème ($3 each).

The Hot Dog Guy
The “Spicy Ditka”- The Hot Dog Guy is one of the first retailers to roll out this new item. Mike Ditka is expanding his empire and has teamed up with Vienna to create a new spicy Polish Sausage, $4.99 (regularly $5.99)

Lavazza Espression
Lavazza Espression will be sampling their new artisan crafted gelato made in house at the Chicago French Market. Each sample will come with a survey; the completed survey may be redeemed for a $1 scoop of gelato of your choice. Lavazza also will be sampling the Affogato al Caffè.

Affogato al Caffè
A typical Italian treat: espresso poured over gelato. The hot espresso and cold gelato combine perfectly, changing textures and temperatures ($3.60 for regular size).

Lavazza 56 affogato al caffeet

Lavazza Affogato al Caffè

City Fresh Market
City Fresh will sample traditional European specialties including Cevapi, house-made pastries made at the City Fresh bakery, along with Eastern European wines and spirits, plus a sampling of Burek – traditional street food of the Balkans. Bojan Aleksic “The Burek Man” also will demo how to make Burek, including a tutorial on making City Fresh Market’s house-made phyllo dough. It’s thrown similar to pizza dough! Fun to watch and delicious to taste.

 

 

Delightful Pastries
Dobra Bielinski, pastry chef and co-owner of Delightful Pastries, will be selling paczki (traditional Polish doughnuts) and Pierogi at EuroFest. On any given day, you can choose strawberry and whipped cream, raspberry jelly or custard topped with chocolate fudge paczki. Or, you can sample “drunken” paczki in scrumptious varieties like vodka and vanilla bean custard, Patron XO Cocoa with chocolate custard, and orange liqueur and passion fruit jelly. Purchase six Paczki and get one free; buy six Pierogi and get one free.

Pastoral Artisan Cheese Bread & Wine
For Eurofest 2013, Pastoral will be sampling a perfect pairing of Langres, a cow’s milk cheese from France paired with Mascaro Cava, a sparkling wine from Spain. Langres is a creamy, bloomy rind cheese made in Champagne, France and pairs perfectly with the crisp and fruity Mascaro made in the brut nature (completely dry) style in Spain. Langres even boasts a concave cap that holds a splash of Champagne or sparkling wine, making these two a perfect pairing of European counterparts.

 

 

Les Fleurs
Les Fleurs, the Chicago French Market florist, will be featuring Dutch flowers including tulips, hyacinth, daffodils, iris and lilies. Bunches start at $8 each.

Oh Olive
Sample Italian olive oils and balsamic vinegars from Moderna, Italy (3 large bottles 375 ml bottle for $51).

Saigon Sisters
Enjoy Saigon Sister’s most popular Banh Mi sandwich, The Frenchman for $7.00 (normally $8.00).

Frenchman Banh Mi 2

Saigon Sisters Bah Mi The Frenchman

Spicy Monkey
Enjoy Spicy Monkey’s Brunswick Stew for $3 for a 10 oz cup.

Vanille Patisserie
Sample Vanille’s famous macarons. Buy two macarons and get one free. Limit six per customer. Gift box not included.

Macarons

Vanille Patisserie Macarons

Wisma
Try linguini with Italian sausage ragu and their popular beef stroganoff ($10 Stroganoff; $8 Linguini plus tax).

Frietkotten
Frietkotten will be featuring its Belgian Special-Small Belgian Fries with a Tap Beer, $7.50 (reg price $9.00).

Fumare Meats
Fumare Meats will be featuring its European Style Sandwiches.

Klay Oven Kitchen
Klay Oven Kitchen will be featuring Chicken Tikka Marsala (Staple Entrée in London).

Loop Juice
Loop Juice will be featuring its Green Juice (apple, cucumber, ginger, parsley, spinach, kale, celery) 10% during Eurofest.

Raw, LLC
Raw will be featuring its Lemon Squares.

Live Music
Enjoy live music by Serbian pianist Bane Djordjevic and international singer Gretta Pope.
Sultry and Sensuous . Lively and Lyrical . Classically Comedic . Proudly Patriotic .

Greta Pope’s performance spans all of these musical moods…and more! Segueing smoothly from a lively Brazilian number into a beloved Broadway song…from a swing/jazz number into one with a Country flavor, this multi-talented entertainer demonstrates a striking versatility of voice and style.Greta Pope is an International entertainer. She has delighted audiences throughout Europe, the Far East, South America and the Caribbean, as well as the United States and Canada. Ms. Pope has been touted as one of the great voices of our time, as she performs with ease all styles from Country to Opera, and from Rhythm and Blues to Broadway.

Tis the Season to Celebrate Friendship & Giving Benefit Dec. 5 with Bachelorette’s Ed Swiderski III

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Ed Swiderski III of TV’s Bachelorette

Stimulus Social Club and StreetWise Magazine are hosting a benefit with special guest Ed Swiderski III of TV’s Bachelorette fame tomorrow night (December 5) at City Winery Chicago.

The benefit begins 5:30 p.m. in the distinguished Concert Hall at 1200 W. Randolph. The cost is only $10 per person with proceeds benefit Streetwise.

Streetwise benefit hosts are Veronica Resa, Olivia Pantoja, Kayla Klobe, & Carly Leviton.
In 2012, Streetwise will have assisted more than 500 men and women in crisis. In executing its mission, Streetwise receives no government funding. The agency’s workforce development and social services are funded by private foundations and the generosity of individuals. The mission of Streetwise is to assist Chicago area men and women, who are facing homelessness, achieve personal stability by providing them with a combination of supportive social services and immediate access to gainful employment.  StreetWise Magazine is the oldest operating street newspaper in North America.
For more information, the public can visit the web: StreetWise.org or call 773-334-6600,

Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day in Chicago September 18

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National Cheeseburger Day is upon us yet again and several Chicagoland restaurants are honoring it by featuring juicy and delicious cheeseburger options for everyone’s taste.

Frietkoten Cheese Burger, Photo by Cindy Kurman

CHICAGO FRENCH MARKET Frietkoten 131 N. Clinton St. Chicago, IL  (312)575-0306  ; www.chicagofrenchmarket.com   Chicago French Market’s, Frietkoten, is primarily known for its authentic Belgian fries and hearty selection of Belgian beers, both on tap and bottled.  However the recently added menu of gourmet Belgian cheeseburgers, made from beef that is freshly ground daily, is proving that the Belgians know what makes up a great burger.  It’s offering of cheeseburgers include a combination of choice toppings like smoked Gouda and blue cheeses, maple bacon, cheddar cheese, sweet grilled onions, apples, and fried egg. All cheeseburgers come with Frietkoten’s signature crispy Belgian fries and a dipping sauce for $8.75, plus tax.  Add a seasonal beer to make it a meal from one of its selections on tap including Avril Biere de Table and Debuisson Cuvee des Trolls, Blond Ale for only $11.

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE AND WINE BAR 25 E. Ohio, Chicago, IL  (312) 329-9463  ; www.flemingssteakhouse.com

960 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, IL  (847) 793-0333  ; www.flemingssteakhouse.com

Fleming’s Prime Burger

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar not only serves prime steaks cooked to perfection, but its extensive new Bar la Carte  menu offers Fleming’s guests six all-new satisfying dishes available any time, any evening. More substantial than appetizers or the typical “bar bites” found at many restaurants, the addition of this Bar la Carte menu makes Fleming’s bar as much a destination for food as it is for wine and cocktails. Included in the new Bar la Carte menu is the Fleming’s Prime Burger, served with Wisconsin cheddar cheese, peppered bacon, and Fleming’s Signature Onion Rings.  Stop in to enjoy the prime burger on National Cheeseburger Day for $14, or enjoy it for only $6 between 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. during Fleming’s daily 5-6-7 promotion – in which you get a choice of 5 premium cocktails, 5 distinctive wines by the glass and 5 generous appetizers or the Prime Burger, each for only $6. Beverage specials are good all evening in Illinois.

Maxwell’s at the Club Steakburger

MAXWELL’S AT THE CLUB East Bank Club 500 North Kingsbury, Chicago, IL  (312) 527-5800  ; www.eastbankclub.com/dining/maxwells-at-the-club   River North and Fulton River District’s Maxwell’s at the Club, is open to the public despite its location in the private confines of East Bank Club. The restaurant serves some of the best food in the neighborhood, with many menu items customizable to please anyone’s particular tastes and desires.

One of the most popular selections at Maxwell’s is Max’s Minis, a trio of sliders that includes a mini prime steakburger, a mini Santé Fe chicken burger and a mini Yellowfin Tuna Steak burger, all topped with crispy onion strings for $10. For customized minis, ask for any combination of the three. Steak lovers will enjoy the very popular Mini Tenderloin Sliders for $14, a trio of seared mini filet mignon sliders finished with lemon and basil.   For a larger appetite, Maxwell’s Prime Steakburger is available for $11, made from ten ounces of prime beef, topped with lettuce tomato, onion and pickle and your choice of cheese, served with sweet potato fries, fresh-cut fries or seasonal fresh fruit.

TRADEMARK TAVERN 777 E. Butterfield Rd. Lombard IL    (630) 472-0777  ; www.trademarketavern.com   Trademark Tavern offers customers a way to truly indulge in the burger holiday; with its “Add a Patty” promotion. Running through September 22, customers can order 1/3 pound cheeseburgers for $3 and stack on as many extra patties as they wish for an additional $1 each. The burgers come with American cheese, lettuce, and pickle. Trademark also has a range of tempting cheeseburgers including its signature Trademark Burger for $10, made with a Pat LaFrieda™ ground chuck and ground short rib combination; topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. They also provide an enticing selection of cheese options including aged cheddar, Gruyére, provolone, Gouda, habanero jack, and blue cheese for an extra $1.

Z Burger at Zealous

ZEALOUS 419 West Superior Street Chicago, IL 60654  (312) 475-9112  ; www.zealousrestaurant.com   Zealous is celebrating 19 years in business this month, and as Michael Taus, chef/owner, continues to offer an award winning fine-dining experience to his patrons, he has proven he still knows how to produce a great cheeseburger.  Voted Chicago Magazine’s “Best Burger Ever” and Travel & Leisure’s “Top 10 Burgers in America” Zealous’ Z’ Burger is the pinnacle of a fine dining take on the all-around classic.  Served with Havarti cheese and tomato Remoulade on a house-made dill roll and served with fries, the highly coveted burger is available a la carte for $15.

 

Celebrate Mother’s Day in Chicago and its Suburbs

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Celebrate mom this year by taking your pick of amazing Chicago Mother’s Day specials and events from brunch and dinner as well as some good old fashioned family time fun.  See what is available to help you lavish mom and make her feel special this Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day Brunch at Elate: The new brunch hotspot!

Elate (111 W. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60654; 312-202-9900)

Elate's breakfast pizza

will be serving up its notable brunch service this Mother’s Day.  Bring mom and watch her delight in Elate’s delicious brunch menu 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  Sunday, May 13.  In addition  to its classic menu items, Elate will be adding a buffet option for an additional $12.  The buffet spread will include seasonal fruits, cheese and desserts.  Elate’s a la carte brunch menu includes classics like its famous Breakfast Pizza, with ham, potatoes, truffle oil and a sunny side up egg for $13.00,  Banana Custard French Toast  for $12.00  and the Elate Burger, cooked to perfection with creamed leeks, apple wood smoked bacon and house-made bread and butter pickles for $14.00. Elate also features an extensive Juice Bar during brunch with familiar favorites like fresh squeezed orange and grapefruit juice and lemonade for $4.00,   and delicious juice blends like the Asian Rabbit, a mix of carrot juice and ginger for $7.00 and the Sunrise, a combination of pineapple, strawberry and lime juice for $9.00.

Want to celebrate mom with a champagne toast? For an additional $20.00, Elate also will provide bottomless mimosas with the purchase of any brunch entrée.

Dine at Fleming’s for Mother’s Day and receive a $25 Dining Card as a free gift to mom

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar(25 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60611; 312-

329-9463 and 960 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, IL 60069; 847-793-0333) will be celebrating Mother’s Day with special brunch and dinner hours and specials, Sunday, May 13.  Brunch hours begin from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and feature three courses for $34.95 excluding tax and gratuity. Moms will have their choice of appetizers, entrees and desserts from a comprehensive menu including Fleming’s favorites like The Wedge, with iceberg lettuce, grape tomatoes, red onions and crumbled blue cheese, Filet Mignon Benedict with sliced filet mignon and egg on an

Fleming's French Toast

English muffin with herd béarnaise sauce and tomato concassé, New Orleans-style French Toast and White Chocolate Bread Pudding with bourbon crème anglaise.  A children’s brunch menu will also be available for $16.95, excluding tax and gratuity, for children 12 and under.  Fleming’s also will be offering its  Blood Orange Fizz Cocktail, a mix of Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur, Stoli Vodka, fresh lemon juice and a splash of club soda for $6.95.

As a special gift to mom, spend Mother’s Day with Fleming’s and receive a $25 Dining Card; perfect for treating mom to your next dining experience at Fleming’s.

To make reservations, call your preferred Fleming’s location or make reservations online at www.flemingssteakhouse.com.

Bring mom to Francesca’s Restaurants for Mother’s Day

“All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother” – Abraham Lincoln

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 13th … Treat the amazing women in your life to a special Mother’s Day celebration at Francesca’s.  Reservations are available online or by calling your local Francesca’s locations.  Extended hours at all locations.  For more information visit www.miafrancesca.com.

Francesca’s at the Promenade (641 E. Boughton Road, Bolingbrook, IL 60440; 630-739-6300) will have number of items, such as Vanilla bean French toast; Crispy chicken confit and bacon hash, as well as Frittata with sautéed asparagus, sausage, fresh mozzarella, spinach and house potatoes.

Francesca’s on Chestnut (200 E. Chestnut Street, Chicago, IL 60611; 312-482-8800) will feature Smoked salmon omelet with chopped tomatoes, rapini and roasted potatoes; Eggs Benedict with prosciutto and Hollandaise sauce; Fried eggs with spicy avocado pesto and oven dried tomatoes.

Additionally, the following locations will feature special brunch items. Call each location for more information. Francesca’s al Lago (111 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Madison, WI 53703; 608-255-6000); Francesca’s Famiglia (100 East Station Street, Barrington, IL 60010; 847-277-1027); Francesca’s Fortunato (40 Kansas Street, Frankfort, IL 60423; 815-464-1890); Francesca’s on Taylor (1400 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60607; 312-829-2828). 

Special Mother’s Day brunch service at Maxwell’s at the Club

Maxwell’s at the Club (200 N. Kingsbury St., Chicago, IL 60610; 312-527-5800) will have a special Mother’s Day brunch service 10 am – 3 pm, Sunday, May 13.

Brunch options will feature prime rib, roast turkey breast and leg of lamb carving stations, an omelet and waffle bar, assorted pastries and seasonal fresh fruit.  Additionally a variety of appetizers, salads and entrée choices will be available.

Come enjoy brunch and celebrate the special lady in your life at Maxwell’s for $45.  Children’s brunch also is available for $15 for children 10 and under.   For reservations, call (312) 527-5800, extension 301, or schedule at Maxwell’s website, using the Book a Table feature.

Prairie Grass Café serves up a delicious brunch feast for Mother’s Day

Celebrate Mother’s Day suburban style with Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, IL 60062; 847-205-4433).

Prairie Grass Café’s will be offering a delightful Mother’s Day brunch buffet for $45, excluding tax, gratuity and beverages, 9:30 am – 2 pm Sunday, May 13.   Every guest starts their meal with the signature “PGC Benedict” a poached egg with spinach and roasted tomato hollandaise. They are then able to take advantage of Prairie Grass’ amazing brunch buffet, which includes a made to order omelet station, hot waffles, its signature grass-fed beef Shepard’s Pie, Braised Lamb with yogurt sauce, raw onion and cilantro relish, Parmesan crusted Tilapia over creamed spinach, to name a few.  A variety of salads and fresh baked goods from Chopped veggie salad with crumbled Amish Blue Cheese, and red wine vinaigrette, Caesar salad with homemade dressing, croutons and shaved parmesan  to crusty multi grain artisan breads, mini chocolate croissants and Danishes, among other choices. To end the meal, diners also will have the opportunity to indulge in the dessert buffet, which includes Mom’s Homemade Crème Brulee Minis, Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble, Double Chocolate Cupcakes, a crepe station and a variety of seasonal fresh fruit.  Children’s brunch options also are available for $15 for children 10 and under.

Prairie Grass’ regular dinner menu will be available 5 pm -9 pm.  To see its dinner menu and to check out Mother’s Day dinner specials visit.  www.prairiegrasscafe.com.

Volare offers special Mother’s Day brunch service

After a highly successful grand re-opening this April, classic Italian eatery Volare (201 E. Grand Ave., 312-410-9900) is open Sunday, May 13 for a special Mother’s Day brunch service.   The four course spread will offer an array of new menu items conceived by Executive Chef Massimiliano Campagnini, and allow guests to choose from a menu of appetizers, soups and salads, entrees and desserts for the cost of $28.95. Tax and gratuity is not included. The brunch menu will be available 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Reservations are required.

For the first course, diners will choose their favorite option from a selection of appetizers including Ostriche Rockefeller, Fresh Oyster baked to perfection with Baby Spinach in a cream Pernot sauce, Fried Calamari Fritti, Calamari served with Cocktail and tomato sauce, Mozzarella in Carrozza, Fried egg battered layered Italian bread with Eggplant, prosciutto and mozzarella served in a salsa di Pomodoro sauce or the Pizza Magherita.

Next a soup or salad course will be offered where guest will choose from a menu of Minestrone Soup, Crawfish Bisque, Insalata di Rape Rosse, Spinach, roasted Beets, Apples, Gorgonzola Dolce, oven baked Parmesan Egg and roasted onion vinaigrette or Radicchio di Treviso, More e Salmone Affumicato, Treviso Radicchio, Blackberries, Blood Orange segment and smoked Salmon, served with a Cilantro/ Lime vinaigrette.

The third course offers  an entrée menu featuring  Pappardelle alla salsa di Pomodoro e Ricotta, Handcrafted Egg noodle sauteed with Tomato sauce and fresh Ricotta, Agnolotti ai Funghi, Half Moon shaped Pasta stuffed with Mushrooms and Mascarpone cheese, served with chive and Black Truffle butter sauce Crespelle ai Sapori di Mare, Homemade crepes stuffed with Crab and Lobster meat, served with a Crustaceans béchamel sauce, Fregolata,  Fregola pasta in a Jambalaya style, sauteed with Olive oil, Shallots, Shrimp, Mussels, Clams, Crawfish, Chicken, Sausage and a hint of creaole seasoning in a Brandy-cream sauce,  or Agnello al Forno Sliced slow cooked baby Lamb leg marinated in Garlic and Rosemary, served in an herbs demi-glaze sauce with Swiss chard and Potatoes Parisienne.

Finally the dessert menu features options including Crostatina di Fragole , Shortbread, Pastry cream, fresh Strawberries,  Pizzetta  alla Nutella, Baked mini pizza topped with Nutella chocolate and Mascarpone cheese,  Fruit & Cookies or Vanilla, Chocolate, or Lemon ice Ice cream.  In addition, a complimentary glass of champagne will be offered to adult diners.

Westfield’s WFamily series returns this May with a Mother’s Day celebration at Tiffany & Co.

Westfield Old Orchard (Skokie Blvd & Old Orchard Center, 847-673-6800) is doing Mother’s Day right with a family-friendly celebration at Tiffany & Co.  From 11:30 am – 3 pm Saturday, May 5 in front of Tiffany & Co., participating families can come and enjoy a crafting session creating handmade cards and gifts provided by the Westfield retailer.  Along with cards, children will take home a hand painted clay pot with seeds included as a gift to mom on her special day.  Completed greeting cards will be photographed and for the week leading up to Mother’s Day, cards will be displayed on Westfield’s LED billboard to commemorate the little ones’ efforts in showing love for mom.  Volunteers from Wilmette District 39 schools will be on hand to help with craft time and work to raise funds for their school district. No registration is required, so bring the entire family to celebrate mom at Westfield Old Orchard.

Giuseppe Tentori, Next among winners of 2012 Jean Banchet Awards

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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.

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.

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 — WINNER
Sean 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 Pazzo
Kady 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 Restaurant
Autre Monde 
The Bristol — WINNER
Maude’s Liquor
Bar 
Vera

Best Fine Dining
Blue 13
Coco Pazzo
Next — WINNER
Sepia

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

 


Everest Burger 2.0, new and improved for 2012

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Everest Burger, Glencoe IL

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.
JIM_1873_adj-1 Mark & Margarita Challenger“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 Glencoe Burger resizerelish, 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 Gringo Burger resizeserved 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.” Interior resizeTo 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. Coffee resize “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 resizeOmelette 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.