BYOB at Park Grill

One of the best places to visit for locals and tourists in the city is Millenium Park.  There’s so much to see and do, from the Jay Pritzker Pavillion to the Cloud Gate (the Bean!), that can be enjoyed by families, loners, couples, etc.  This spot holds a special place in my heart because I [...]

The Arboretum of South Barrington: Uncorked from the Heart

The Arboretum of South Barrington is Chicagoland’s newest outdoor playground.  You can dine, shop and play in the company of trees and gardens out in the ‘burbs.  On Thursday, March 4th, you can also catch a special event: Uncorked from the Heart.  For $40 in advance ($50 at the door) you can experience wines from [...]

Chicago Semifinalists for James Beard Awards

The Semifinalists for the James Beard Foundation Awards 2010 have been announced and the list is littered with Chicago establishments and professionals.  It’s always exciting to see how well Chicago does with these awards and to bask in the fame that is given to our culinary scene. 
Now for those of you who don’t know, the [...]

Current News: Juicy Wine Company, Drinks Over Dearborn

A whole lot going on with the Chicago wine scene right now (as always!) and here’s the latest scoop on two places: Juicy Wine Company and Drinks Over Dearborn.

The Purple Pig Opening on Michigan Avenue: Cheese, Swine & Wine

For all of those interested in good casual food and wine, The Purple Pig will be opening tonight at 500 N. Michigan Ave, just across the street from my old gig, Eno Wine Room.  It looks to be in the perfect location to attract a large afterwork crowd, including those from the Chicago Tribune, NBC 5, [...]

BYOB at Honky Tonk BBQ

 After a long day of moving couches with my brother, we were up for a big meal.  I’ve been meaning to try Honky Tonk BBQ in Pilsen, and since I live closeby, we were on our way.  Being on 18th Street, there was ample parking, and their entrance is definitely an eye catcher- a single [...]

Client Spotlight: Catbridge Cellars Grand Opening

When: Friday, Nov. 20, 11am to 8pm.  Saturday, Nov. 21, 11am to 8pm.  Sunday, Nov. 22, 12am to 5pm.
Where: Catbridge Cellars, Antioch.
If you live in or will be near the Antioch area, make sure to stop by Catbridge Cellars, where one of my favorite clients, Cathy Williams, has just opened shop.  It’s a great combination wine [...]

The ChillinJoy: Portable Wine Chiller from Chicago’s Very Own

While strolling through the Windy City Wine Festival last month, I met Chris & Christin Poterek, co-founders of ChillinJoy.  I do get a bit excited when I see new wine gadgets, so I decided to investigate.
ChillinJoy is a portable wine chiller, capable of keeping any 750ml bottle cold for hours.  This allows you to enjoy [...]

BYOB at Caro Mio

This past Wednesday, my wife and I teamed up with Chris and Kristina Caruso of Vine Times Chicago for a BYOB evening at Caro Mio Italian Restaurant in Lincoln Square.  We found ample inexpensive meter parking just across the street, and walked into a quaint and cozy little dining room.  We were then given water, which is [...]

Beer and Hearty Belgian Food at Hopleaf Bar

Just another night of casual dining in Chicago brought my wife and I to Hopleaf Bar on Chicago’s North Side, close to the intersection of Foster and Clark.  It was an easy ride down Lake Shore Drive, and we found ample parking before heading in for some Belgian delight.