Author Archives: prcindy

James Beard Awards 2011 Winners Announced, Richard Melman Outstanding Restaurateur

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Winners were announced yesterday at the annual 2011 James Beard Foundation Awards, the nation’s most prestigious recognition program honoring professionals in the food and beverage industries.

Richard Melman, founder and chairman of Chicago’s Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises Inc., brought home the James Beard Foundation award for outstanding restaurateur in the nation. Melman, a well known Chicago-based restaurateur whose company owns more than 30 restaurants here and across the country, was the lone local restaurant-related winner out of 10 area nominees.

Michael Gebert and Julia Thiel of the Chicago Reader took home a James Beard Foundation Journalism award winning in the multimedia food feature category for their “Key Ingredient” blog. That category was announced Friday.

Chicago eateries and chefs shutout.
Hopeful Stephanie Izard’s Girl & The Goat, a finalist in the best new restaurant category, was beat out by Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s ABC Kitchen in New York which focuses on local, organic and seasonal foods.
Paul Kahan (Blackbird, Avec, & others), a 2004 James Beard winner for best chef in the Midwest, lost his bid for outstanding chef to Jose Andres of Minibar in Washington, D.C.
Colleague Patrick Fahy, also of Blackbird, and Mindy Segal of Mindy’s HotChocolate, who was also nominated in the same category in 2007, lost the outstanding pastry chef award to  Angela Pinkerton of New York’s Eleven Madison Park.
Multi award winner Rick Bayless’ Topolobampo lost the outstanding service award to Thomas Keller‘s Per Se in New York. Bayless won a James Beard award for best chef in the Midwest in 1991 and chef of the year in 1995. He was also named humanitarian of the year in 1998 by the James Beard Foundation.
Four of the five nominees for best chef in the Great Lakes region were from the Chicago area,  Michael Carlson of Schwa, Curtis Duffy of Avenues at the Peninsula Hotel, Bruce Sherman of North Pond and Paul Virant of Vie. The award went to Alex Young of Zingerman’s Roadhouse in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Highlights from this year’s list of winners include:
Outstanding Chef: Jose Andres (minibar, Washington, D.C.)
Outstanding Restaurant: Eleven Madison Park (NYC, Owner: Danny Meyer)
Rising Star Chef: Gabriel Rucker (Le Pigeon, Portland, OR)
Best New Restaurant: ABC Kitchen (NYC, Chef/Owner: Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Owner: Phil Suarez)
In addition, special achievement award honorees included:
Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America: Jonathan Gold (Writer, LA Weekly, Los Angeles); Lee Jones (Farmer/ Owner, Chef’s Garden, Huron, OH); Charles Phan (Chef/Owner, The Slanted Door, San Francisco, CA); Frank Stitt (Chef/Owner, Highlands Bar and Grill, Birmingham, AL); Nick Valenti (CEO, Patina Restaurant Group, New York, NY)
America’s Classics: Chef Vola’s (Owners:  Louise Esposito, Michael Esposito, Michael Esposito, Jr., Louis Esposito, Atlantic City, NJ); Crook’s Corner (Owner:  Gene Hamer, Chapel Hill, NC); Noriega Restaurant and Hotel (Owners:  Linda Elizalde McCoy and Rochelle Ladd, Bakersfield, CA); Le Veau d’Or (Owner:  Robert Treboux, New York, NY); Watt’s Tea Shop (President and CEO:  Sam Watts, Milwaukee, WI)
Lifetime Achievement Award: Kevin Zraly (Wine Educator and Author, Windows on the World Complete Wine Course)
Humanitarian of the Year: FareStart (Founder:  David Lee)
Highlights from the Book, Broadcast and Journalism Awards announced on Friday, May 6, 2011, at the Awards dinner at Espace included:
Cookbook of the Year: Oaxaca al Gusto: An Infinite Gastronomy by Diana Kennedy (University of Texas Press)
Cookbook Hall of Fame: On Food and Cooking: The Science & Lore of the Kitchen by Harold McGee
Publication of the Year: Edible Communities
M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writing Award: Jonathan Gold, LA Weekly, “A Movable Beast”
Audio Webcast or Radio Show: CBC Ideas: “Pasta: The Long and Short of It” Host: Megan Williams, Area: Canada and Online, Producers: Susan Mahoney and Megan Williams
Television Program, In Studio or Fixed Location: Top Chef: Season 7, Host: Padma Lakshmi, Network: Bravo, Producers: Tom Colicchio, Dan Cutforth, Jane Lipsitz, and Dave Serwatka
Television Program, On Location: Avec Eric, Host: Eric Ripert, Network: PBS, Online Producers: Justin Barocas, Heather Brown, and Geoffrey Drummond
TV Food Personality/Host: Alton Brown, Show: Good Eats, Network: Food Network
Food Section of a General Interest Publication: San Francisco Chronicle, Jon Bonne and Miriam Morgan
Craig Claiborne Distinguished Restaurant Review: Patric Kuh, Los Angeles, “Animal Magnetism,” “Making Their Move,” “Time for a Redo?”
Group Food Blog: Grub Street New York, Newyork.grubstreet.com, Daniel Maurer, Jenny Miller, and Alan Sytsma
Individual Food Blog: Politics of the Plate, Politicsoftheplate.com, Barry Estabrook
Visit http://www.jamesbeard.org for more information.

Last Minute Mother’s Day Plans. Some great Chicago-area suggestions.

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reprinted with permission from Got Buzz by Kurman Communications, Inc.

BISTRO ONE WESTBistro One West
1 W. Illinois St., St. Charles, Ill. 60174
(630) 444-0600
www.Bistro1West.com

Starting May 1, Bistro One West will keep its doors open for the first Sunday ever, making Bistro One West the ideal west suburban spot to celebrate Mother’s Day! Celebrate the day overlooking the beautiful Fox River on the Bistro One West deck. Enjoy from a delicious menu blend of all things special at Bistro One West including appetizers, entrées and desserts. Appetizers include Fresh Italian Cow’s Milk Burrata with roasted tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil and sea salt for $11; Baby Wedge Salad with blue cheese dressing, cherry tomatoes and fruitwood smoked bacon for $9; Proscuitto

Deviled Eggs di Parma with seasonal fresh melon for $9; Deviled Eggs filled with buttered Maine lobster for $12; and Mixed Greens tossed with tomatoes, cucumbers and mozzarella with a garlic-thyme dressing for $7. Entrées include Sautéed Tilapia with sugar snap peas, wild mushrooms and roasted garlic butte for $19; Hawaiian Swordfish with grilled shitakes mushrooms, green onion and their signature cole slaw for $12;Sautéed Shrimp with green beans, house greens and lemon olive oil dressing for $12; Fingerling Potatoes with fresh farm egg, roasted asparagus and house greens for $10 (add crumbled ahi tuna, grilled steak or grilled chicken for $6); Meyer’s Farm Naturally Raised Half-pound Beef Burger for $10 (extras: cherry-wood smoked bacon for $3, caramelized onions for $1, fried egg for $2, Swiss, blue or cheddar cheese for $2, and sautéed wild mushrooms for $2); Natural Fruit-wood Smoked Bacon with lettuce, tomatoes, maple-orange aioli on cibatta bread for $10; Caged Free Egg Sandwich with assorted peppers, honey and white cheddar cheese for $8; and Grilled Wagyu served with potatoes and topped with an avocado butter for $26. Extra sides include fingerling potatoes, wild mushrooms or asparagus for $6 each.

Desserts include Butter and Bread Pudding with poached berry compote and vanilla sauce for $6; Caramelized Roasted Banana baked with cinnamon wonton and nutella cream for $6;French Butter Cookies with lemon curd, wild berry compote and chocolate sauce for $7; Vanilla Gelato with balsamic and strawberries or lemon sorbet with vanilla scented berries for $6; and Flourless Chocolate Cake with butter-cream and more chocolate sauce for $6.
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CHICAGO FRENCH MARKET

Chicago French Market 131 N. Clinton St., Chicago, Ill. 60661

Celebrate your Mom this Mother’s Day with treats and delights from Chicago French Market. Choose from a variety of vendors and their exceptional specials to make your Mom feel like a queen.

Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine is happy to present their Mother’s Day gift box! Their gift for Mom features some of their most cherished products from local producers and a sparkling Rose from FPastoral Mother's Day Basketrance. Mom will be delighted with a Wabash Cannonball,a Farmstead Goat’s Milk Cheese from Capriole Farms in Greenville, Indiana; Quince and Apple brand fruit spread, a small batch preserved from Madison, Wisconsin; Potter’s Crackers, an artisan line of crackers from Madison, Wisconsin;Sweet Margy’s Handmade Toffee, made right here in Chicago; and abeautiful Veuve de Vernay Rose, a sparkling Tempranillo from Bordeaux, France. This Artisan Gift Box is $39.99 and will be available online for local delivery or shipping across the continental US, and can also be picked up at one of their three locations.

Pastoral Artisan is also offering a cross promotion with SpaSpace (161 N. Canal St., (312) 466-9585). Treat your Mother to something special. Let Pastoral cater your spa experience at SpaSpace and receive 10% off botSpa Spaceh your catering and your spa package. Must mention special when booking. Not valid with Spa Finder Certificates or any other offer. Not valid for gift certificate purchases. Offer valid 5/1/11 to 5/31/11. Call (312) 454-9644 or visit www.pastoralartisan.com for more information.

Sweet Miss Giving’s is offering specially decorated cupcakes to please any Mother. Call (312) 575-0212 or visit www.sweetmissgivings.com for more information.

Delightful Pastries will be featuring an array of natural, local and sustainable grown ingredients in a vast Mother’s Day Menu. Choose from gluten free desserts, mini pastries, beautiful mixed berry torte’s and savory quiches, Frittata’s, and Beet and Orange Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette, just to name a few. Call (312) 234-9644 or visit www.delightfulpastries.com for more information.

Abbey Brown Soap Artisan’s Spring Special is running now through May 9. Step into spring with handmade products by WomanCraft, an organization providing employment for women regaining their independence. Special items include olive oil soaps wrapped in handmade paper in refreshing scents including Lavender, Jasmine Blossom and Rosebuds; recycled cards and note card sets, made from office paper and perished flowers, handmade and available in a variety of colors; and seed card packs, see your handwritten notes become wildflowers when buried, watered and cared for! Call (312) 738-2290 or visit www.abbeybrown.com for more information.

Have you orLes Fleurdered your Mother’s Day bouquets yet? Les Fleur offers truly original arrangements, gorgeous bouquets, beautiful gift items and more. This Mother’s Day treat your Mom to an array of flower specials; mini cymbidium orchid bouquets ($25), spray rose bouquets in assorted colors ($18), tulip bunches in assorted colors ($10) and pink oriental lily bouquets ($20) just to name a few! Call (312) 463-1111 or email les.fleurs@yahoo.com for more information.

Vanille Patisserie is offering a Mother’s Day limited edition,three-tiered boxes filled with 1/2 poundFrench Macaroons, 1/3 pound assorted shortbread cookies and 1/3 pound buttery caramels for $45. They are also featuring a Rose Vanille 8″ cake for $40 or a 6″ cake for $30, and a Vanilla Bean Mousseline, raspberry marmalade, rose cream center, and Vanille PatisserieVanilla financier cake witha raspberry Glaze for $40. Call (312) 575-9963 or visit www.vanillepatisserie.com for more information.

Canady Le Chocolatier is offering beautiful handmadeChocolate Truffles and Bon Bon’s. A 12 piece box of these specialties is $18. Call (312) 454-8700 for more information.

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RESTAURANT MICHAELRestaurant Michael
64 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka, Ill. 60093
(847) 441-3100
www.restaurantmichael.com

Restaurant Michael is hosting a special three-course Mother’s Day brunch Sunday, May 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For $44 per adult and $19 per child (under 10 years of age), begin with choice of Tian of Pan-roasted scallop with baby spinach brie, tarragon-scented corn blini and truffle sauce; Duo of Sliced House-cured Smoked Salmon and Five-spice Seared Yellow Tail Tuna and a warm potato cake with chive and lemongrass crème frâiche; Caramelized Onion and Bacon “Tarte Flambé”; Early Spring Pea Soup with snow pea and fresh Maryland crab; Tossed Baby Greens dressed with choice of honey-truffle or champagne-herb vinaigrette.

For a second-course, choose from Filet of “Loup de Mer” in crispy potato scales with morels, fava beans and asparagus tips; Roast Breast of Duck and Foie Grass Strudel with door county cherries and natural jus; Roast Chateaubriand of Beef Tenderloin with potato gratin and sauce perigord; Duo of Baby Lamb Chops and “Karabuta” Pork Tenderloin Medallions with rosemary jus and baby French green beans; and Soft-shelled Crab Beignet over exotic mushroom risotto with crispy fried leeks and grilled asparagus. For a final dessert course, choose from Fallen Chocolate Soufflé and caramel gelato; Duo of warm bananas foster crepe and Tahitian vanilla panna cotta; Seasonal Sorbet and gelatowith toasted almond biscotti; Warm Berry Charlotte with brown sugar crème frâiche and cinnamon-nutmeg gelato;or Grand Marnier Chocolate Truffles.

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FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Flemings
25 E. Ohio St., Chicago, Ill. 60611
(312) 329-9463

960 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, Ill. 60069
(847) 793-0333
www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com

Mother’s Day Brunch May 8 –Fleming’s will open early at 11:30 am on Mother’s Day and offer a 3-course Brunch Menu until 3 pm, in addition to their regular menu. The Brunch Menu will be offered for $32.95 per person, and a Children’s Brunch Menu will also be available for $15.95. A specialty 99 calorie cocktail, the Tickled Pink, will also be available all day for $6.95. And to make the day even more special, every mother who celebrates at Fleming’s on Mother’s Day will receive a $25 Fleming’s Dining Card* to use for a future evening out. Reservations are now available and can be made online.

*$25 Fleming’s Dining Card valid from 5/9/11 – 6/12/11

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Prairie Grass & Prairie Fire

PRAIRIE FIRE
215 N. Clinton St., Chicago, Ill. 60661|
(312) 382-8300  www.prairiefirechicago.com

Prairie Fire is offering a special Mother’s Day three-course brunch menu for both adults and children 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 8. For $42 per adult and $15 per child (under 10), begin the experience with Mini-croissants served warm to the table followed by selection from a three-course prix fixe menu. First-course items include Crispy Shrimp Roll with spicy dipping sauce; “Three Sister’s Garden” Pea Shoot Tendril Salad with arugula, asparagus, Dijon mustard vinaigrette and shaved aged cheddar;Prairie Fire Caesar Salad with romaine lettuce, homemade dressing, toasted croutons and shaved parmesan; and White Bean and Homemade Sausage Soup. Second-course items include Peeky Toe Crab Benedict with asparagus and citrus hollandaise Chicken Roulade with grilled vegetables; Parmesan Crusted Tilapia over creamed spinach and“Three Sister’s Garden” Micro Greens; Ancho Marinated Skirt Steak with mushroom ragout and potato wedges. Third-course dessert items include Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Icing; Double Chocolate Cake; Strawberry Cream Pie; Chocolate Cookie and Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream.

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PRAIRIE GRASS CAFE 601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, Ill. 60062 847-205-4433 www.prairiegrasscafe.com

Prairie Grass Cafe is offering a special Mother’s Day prix fix brunch menu 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 8 for bother adult and children. Select from the buffet and dessert buffet for $42 per adult and $15 per child (10 and under); tax, gratuity and beverage are not included. Buffet items include “Made to order” Omelet Station including choice of river valley ranch mushrooms, springonions, crumbled feta and spinach, and chopped fresh herbs; Fresh “Peekytoe” Crab with grated lemon and herbs for omelets; Hot Fresh Waffle Station with maple syrup; Applewood Smoked Maple Creek Farm Bacon; Roasted New York Grass Fed Beef Strip Loin with mushroom sauce and carved to order; Herb Roasted Little Red Potatoes; Spicy Braised Pulled Pork with Three Sisters Garden black beans, cilantro and avocado relish; Mint Creek Farm Homemade Lamb Sausage with chunky vegetable relish; Prairie Grass Cafe Signature Grass Fed Beef Shepard’s Pie; Parmesan Crusted Tilapia over creamed spinach;Platter of Asparagus with basil remoulade and sliced radished; Chopped Veggie Salad with crumbled Amish blue cheese, red wine vinaigrette (romaine, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers and tomato); Caesar Salad with romaine, homemade dressing, croutons and shaved parmesean;Fresh Housemade Farmer’s Cheese served savory with chives and fresh black pepper; Crusty Multi-grain Artisan Breads; Mini Chocolate Croissants; Cheese Danish; Raspberry Jam Danish and Sticky Pecan Rolls.

The desserts includes Crepe Station with valrhona and hazelnut spread, raspberry jam and whipped cream; Fresh Sliced Ripe Fruit; Platter of Berries; Double Chocolate Cup Cakes with butter cream icing; and Mom’s Fruit Cream Pie.

 

Cookbook Signing with Patricia Wells

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Sunday, April 17, 3-5 pm at The Spice House on Wells St.

The Spice House shop in Old Town Chicago is proud to host one of their favorite authors,the renowned Patricia Wells. Her new cookbook, Salad as a Meal: Healthy Main-Dish Salads for Every Season, is a wonderful collection of healthy meals perfect for those who want to add more vegetables to our diets. Books will be available for sale and signing, and The Spice House staff will provide some samples from the book. These books make lovely Mothers’ Day Gifts! This event is free but please RSVP to spices@thespicehouse.com or by calling 312-274-0378 so that they know how much food to prepare.

From among the many wonderful recipes in the book, The Spice House staff will prepare samples including:

–Australian Coronation Chicken Salad – Created in 1953 to be served to the heads of the British commonwealth to honor the coronation of Queen Elizabeth.

–Bar de la Croix Rouge Assiette Saint-Germain (fancy rare roast beef sandwiches)

–Seared Pork Tenderloin Salad

-A lovely assortment of cheese accompanied by spiced grapes and olives along with curried pumpkin seeds and spicy Basque nuts

The Spice House is known for offering exquisite spices, herbs and seasoning. It is located at 1512 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL – (312) 274-0378 – Direction . Visit their website at: http://www.thespicehouse.com

Treat: A spot that lights up the neighborhood

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Treat
1616 N. Kedzie, Chicago
(773) 772-1201, www.treatrestaurant.com

Hours: 5-9 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 5-10 p.m., Friday; 9 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat.; 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday.
Entrée prices: $12-$19.

Editors Note: Since writing and publishing this story in the print version of StreetWise, we’ve learned that Treat will close on April 3. Owners are looking for a new location, so hurry over and have a fabulous meal and if you know of any great spots for this gem of a restaurant, give them a call!

Anyone who has lived in Chicago for awhile becomes familiar with the restaurant hot spots—those neighborhoods that are teeming with good, interesting places to eat. River North, Bucktown and Lincoln Square come to mind, but there are many others. It’s great to have these destinations but often the out-of-the-way places get overlooked.

Lately we’ve come across a restaurant whose presence is a beacon of light in its neighborhood. You wouldn’t expect to find such a good spot in the vicinity, but when you do, you are thrilled there are still restaurateurs willing to go out on a limb to pioneer a neighborhood that is sorely in need of a worthwhile gathering spot.

Where North Kedzie meets North Avenue you’ll find Treat, a small but creatively designed contemporary American BYOB restaurant with a strong South Asian influence. The warm colors, local art display and casually warm atmosphere are perfect for enjoying quite tasty food, a bottle of your favorite wine or beer and good conversation. We went there recently with a group to celebrate a friend’s birthday and we had a wonderful time. Treat is an oasis of dinner and weekend brunch.

The menu is intriguing from top to bottom—well thought out and creative yet accessible, with a more than ample selection of vegetarian dishes if you’re so inclined. Because the food is creative, take time to enjoy at least one first course—if not a first and second course—before the entrée is served.

First courses include meat and fish creations such as an interesting Beef Kabob with smoked spices, baby spinach in a yogurt dressing and Daisy’s Fried Calamari served with a carrot, parsley salad and harissa aioli. Other seafood starters include Scallops served with a yogurt crème, potatoes and leeks and Goan Crab Cakes with a panko bread crumb crust and creamed peas. Among the vegetarian starters are tasty Samosas, flaky pastry dough filled with potatoes, peas and served with a cilantro, mint and tamarind chutney, and the delicious Mushroom Paneer Purse: leeks and goat cheese in phyllo dough served with mixed greens and balsamic reduction.

A second course will provide a soup or salad. There is a daily soup and there are three salads, all are nicely conceived and shareable. The Mixed Green Salad includes tomatoes, cilantro and mint in pomegranate vinaigrette. You can enhance the salad with chicken salad or marinated flank steak for an up charge. The yummy beet salad is accompanied by herb crusted baked goat cheese, pickled onions, greens and walnuts in a citrus vinaigrette. Another nice choice is the Paneer and Spinach Salad, with cucumbers, paneer (soft white cheese), spiced corn, Israeli cous cous and shredded carrots in a cumin vinaigrette.

The entrées showcase Treat’s penchant for creative interpretations of South Asian specialties. Non-vegetarian entrées include Chicken Tikka Masala in a yogurt tomato sauce with Indian spices, basmati rice and curried seasonal vegetables. Meat lovers can select the Marinated Flank Steak served with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus and korma (yogurt, nuts, spices) sauce or the Mint Creek Farm Lamb Shank with saffron cholay (curried chick peas), potatoes and rice. If you’re in a fish or seafood mood, you can select a perfectly prepared Seared Salmon with Israeli cous cous, fennel, tear drop tomatoes, edamame and almond cream or Scallops in a yogurt crème sauce, potatoes and leeks.

Vegetarian selections include Daai Tadka with Indian spices, clarified vegetable butter, basmati rice, and curried vegetables as well as a very delicious, albeit somewhat spicy Curried Gnocchi in a garam (ground spices) masala crème, with spinach gingered raisons, roasted fennel and mint. If pasta is in your future, you can go for the Garlic Paneer Linguini with roasted garlic, mushrooms, fennel, edamame, paneer, asparagus and herbs.

A nice feature about Treat as a neighborhood spot is that if you’re more inclined to eat light, there are several interesting sandwiches to choose from. Among the creations are a Lamb Burger with roasted red pepper, red onions, herb aioli, cilantro chutney on a toasted bun. There are two panini selections: the Jake’s Farm Ham and Cheese Panini comes with smoked ham, swiss cheese, mustard relish aioli, caramelized onions, all served on a light rye bread. The Turkey Panini is served with an apple tarragon cole slaw and swiss cheese on a light rye. You might also want to try the Beer Battered Cod Sandwich with capers, herb aioli, pickled onions and mesculin greens. Each sandwich comes with choice of side dish: French fries, basmati rice with chutney, apple tarragon cole slaw, wilted spinach or curried seasonal vegetables.

Treat doesn’t skimp on the desserts; we were delighted with our Spiced Apple Tart topped with Black Pepper ice cream—not your typical, run of the mill tart by any means.

Treat is BYOB but if you’re not drinking alcohol, you might want to try their homemade Ginger Limeade or choose from a wide range of teas.

Don’t forget the weekend brunch; visit the website, www.treatrestaurant.com, for menu information.

About DineWise
DineWise Chicago is written by Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie, the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. The DineWise column appears weekly in Streetwise magazine. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.com.

Glencoe’s Everest Burger – Organic, Sustainable, Hormone-Free – Delicious

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by Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman Barrie
Everest Burger
91 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe, IL
(847) 242-0909; www.everestburger.com

The organic sustainable food movement has pretty well gone mainstream, reaching most corners of the culinary world. We figured that burger joints would be the holdouts – after all, if burgers aren’t broken why fix them? Americans, in droves, continue to eat burgers of all shapes and sizes without, it would seem, apparent concern for their healthfulness. But perhaps we were mistaken.

According to Mark and Margarita Challenger, there are many people who would jump at the chance to eat a good healthy burger. And parents, they say, long for a healthy alternative to Mickey D’s to satisfy their kids’ burger crave. So the Challengers opened the new Everest Burger and Bakery in Glencoe, which serves only hormone-free, steroid-free and antibiotic-free burgers and other good stuff. The Challengers are parents and part of their reason for launching the restaurant is to help other families feed their kids with good food they’ll enjoy.

So our hats go off to this husband and wife team, which has already brought healthy, authentic Mexican food to the Glencoe area with their Guanajuato, a contemporary Mexican eatery a few doors away from Everest Burger.

Everest Burger

Everest Burger is “the peak of better burger joints,” says Mark. It’s somewhat kitschy but not over the top, with a Himalayan/Mt. Everest theme. There is a huge stone wall at the entrance and the mountain theme continues inside, including a ceiling-to-floor, larger than life mural replica of a painting of the Himalyas by artist Nicholas Roeich.

The restaurant is a casual, come as you are place. One side has an open kitchen where you can watch your food being prepared. The other side has a bakery display case which showcases the day’s fresh baked goods which can be purchased to take home.

Freshness and quality are the mantras here. After months of searching for healthy, great tasting beef products, the Challengers chose the 100 percent hormone-free, steroid-free and antibiotic-free beef from Montana Brand Ranch. Other ingredients, including the chicken used for chicken burgers, are sourced locally. Fresh wild Alaskan salmon is flown in every week.

It gets really interesting once you choose your burger and enjoy the experience. The menu offers many original burger creations or you can build your own burger from the long list of toppings and ingredients.

Diners choose their burger recipe and their choice of protein: beef, turkey, chicken or wild Alaskan salmon. There are also vegan versions using portabella mushroom, black beans or walnuts. Burgers are served on fresh, baked-on-premises buns: whole wheat, whole wheat white or gluten free.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a traditionalist or a food adventurer or a burger lovin’ kid; Everest Burger has something that will “peak” your interest.

Aloha Burger

On the traditional side, you can order a straight-ahead Base Camp Burger, served with lettuce, tomato and onion, or you can get more sophisticated with choices such as the Everest Burger, with lettuce, tomato, onions, avocado and kalamata olives, topped with organic blue cheese. Odysseus’ Feast includes lettuce, tomato, onion, kalamata olives and feta cheese grilled with olive oil. The Aloha Burger comes with lettuce, tomato, onion, pineapple and Swiss cheese; the BLT Burger is served with lettuce, tomato, and onion topped with home-made turkey bacon; and the Texas BBQ, lettuce, tomato and onion topped with home-made regular or spicy BBQ sauce.

If you’re in the mood for adventure your expedition can choose from such unique options such as The Australian, pineapple, beet, lettuce and tomato topped with a fried egg and grilled onions in a tangy blend of mayonnaise and chilies; The Fez, a secret Turkish burger recipe combining spices and grains to create a spicy, nutty flavored burger; Fiesta Burger,

Fiesta Burger

a spicy Mexican burger cooked with chipotle peppers and topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, jalapenos and cheese; and the Chimichurri Burger, onion, cloves, cilantro, oregano and some special sauces for a spicy South American taste.

For vegetarians and vegans, the Black Bean Burger, Mushroom Burger and the Walnut Burger are all delicious and healthy options.

Chimichurri Burger

Hot dogs haven’t been forgotten: Everest Dogs are prepared in-house using Everest’s own high-quality beef.

Guests can add a side of Organic fries to any burger or hot dog order, with a choice of regular, parmesan, Cajun or cheesy varieties. The fries are made from organic potatoes freshly cut and fried in rice bran oil to give the cleanest and best taste possible.

The children’s menu includes Children’s Burgers, beef, turkey, chicken or black bean, with or without cheese;

Meatball Slider

Meatball Sliders, three meatballs with marinara sauce on a child-sized bun; Chicken Tenders and an Everest Beef Dog.

Guests can top off the meal with Everest Organic Frozen Yogurt, prepared in-house using fresh and organic ingredients.

The bakery features croissants, breads and churros as well as fast breakfast items such as quiche, breakfast burrito, croissant egg sandwiches, scones, muffins, and Danishes all made using organic flours, fresh ground coffee and herbal teas.

The best news is that a trip to this Everest doesn’t require months of training. So hop in the car and treat yourself to something delicious and healthy. You’ll be as proud of yourself as those brave souls who have conquered the mountain. Well, maybe not, but…

Everest Burger & Bakery soon will be open for breakfast and bakery orders. Here’s a sample of their offerings:


DineWise Chicago is written by Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie, the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. The DineWise column appears weekly in Streetwise magazine. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.com.

Terry Walters’ new book “Clean Start” is a Mitzvah

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Reprinted with permission from Got Buzz

I think my life is about to change. At least, I hope so.

Lee and I have been talking about changing our diet for years. My chance meeting with Clean Start author Terry Walters today at the Chicago French Market may just been the ticket we needed to start anew.

For those of you who don’t know Terry, she authored the highly regarded Clean Food book last year and is currently on a book tour espousing the virtues of  “eating clean and living well.”

Her new 165 page book is inspirational. Terry makes cooking with seasonal, locally grown ingredients simple and satisfying. The two dishes that she sampled at the market today (Shallot Fig Spread; and Red Lentil Soup w/ Turnips & Parsley & Hot Spiced Coconut Milk) were simply delicious.

Clean Start

I was struck by how simple the “clean” book recipes are. I can’t wait to start cooking.

The preface of the book really struck home.

“Clean Start is about enjoying healthy, delicious, clean food everyday. It’s about having a relationship with food that’s not based on living up to somebody else’s ideal, or following a strict regime. It’s simply about making healthy choices, one at a time, and doing the best that you can do, empowered with knowledge and motivated by intention. It’s about maximizing nutritional value and taste, and minimizing waste and imbalance. It’s about true nourishment. The kind that makes you feel good about yourself.  The kind that you want to share with others.”

The Clean Start book is as much a guide as it is a cookbook. Whether you’re starting again or starting anew, eating clean is about being nourished by your food and by your journey,” she says.

If you missed the book signing. Terry’s enthusiasm and commitment is contagious.

“START HERE. It doesn’t matter where you are starting. Eating clean is about what we can do now to make healthy choices.”

I love her advice from the get go:

Eat the colors of the rainbow.
Eat dark leafy greens every day.
Eat all five tastes.
Eat foods that are grown, not manufactured
Skip the package
Buy clean food and leave the rest behind.
Buy and try one new clean food each time you shop.
Know the source of your food.
Buy local and organic when you can.
Be nourished by your food and make peace with your choices.

The book is packed with information and 100 tasty, healthy recipes. I am so happy that I went to the book signing today. If you missed it, don’t miss out on buying Terry’s book Clean Start. I believe that it will be, perhaps, the most used book in your collection. It will certainly be the best $25 investment I’ve made this year.

To learn more about Terry, visit her website, follow her on Twitter @TerryWalters and subscribe to her blog.

Thanks Terry. What a mitzvah!

About DineWise

DineWise Chicago is written by Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie, the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. The DineWise column appears weekly in Streetwise magazine. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.com.

2011 James Beard Foundation Awards Restaurant + Chef Award Semifinalists from Chicago

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James Beard Medal

It’s that time of year again—the countdown to May and the annual James Beard Foundation Awards. The James Beard Foundation announced the nominees on their blog today. The semifinalists for their Restaurant and Chef Awards include a number of Chicago-area chefs and restaurants.

Judges from across the country will take a look at the list and vote to narrow it down to a final list of nominees. The Foundation will be live tweeting the nominee announcement on March 21, but in the meantime you can check to see if your favorite Chicago chefs and restaurants are listed and visit the JBF Blog for the full list from around the country.

Here’s the Chicago roundup:

BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Girl & the Goat

OUTSTANDING CHEF
Paul Kahan, Blackbird
Tony Mantuano, Spiaggia

OUTSTANDING PASTRY CHEF
Patrick Fahy, Blackbird
Mindy Segal, Mindy’s HotChocolate Restaurant and Dessert Bar

OUTSTANDING RESTAURANT
Spiaggia
Tru

OUTSTANDING RESTAURATEUR
Scott Harris (Davanti Enoteca, DiSotto Enoteca,
Dough Boys, Fat Rosie’s, Francesca’s, Osteria Ottimo, Purple
Pig, and Salatino’s)
Richard Melman, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises,
(Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, Eiffel Tower, Everest, L2O, Mon
Ami Gabi, Shaw’s Crab House, Tru, Wow Bao, and others)

OUTSTANDING SERVICE
Les Nomades
Topolobampo

OUTSTANDING WINE SERVICE
Avenues at the Peninsula, Michael Muser

OUTSTANDING WINE AND SPIRITS PROFESSIONAL
Charles Joly, The Drawing Room

RISING STAR CHEF OF THE YEAR
Anthony Martin, Tru

BEST CHEFS IN AMERICA
Michael Carlson, Schwa
Curtis Duffy, Avenues at the Peninsula
Dirk Flanigan, Henri
Dale Levitski, Sprout
Chris Nugent, Les Nomades
Paul Virant, Vie, Western Springs

About DineWise
DineWise Chicago is written by Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie, the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. The DineWise column appears weekly in Streetwise magazine. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.com.

Chicago’s celebration as a world-class dining destination: Restaurant Week 2011

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By Cindy Kurman and Lee Barrie
Originally published in Streetwise Magazine

For ten days beginning February 18 through February 27, Chicago celebrates Restaurant Week, with more than 200 restaurants offering special prix fixe menus at $22 for lunch and $33/$44 for dinner (beverage, tax and gratuity not included). This is a great opportunity to try new restaurants or old favorites and enjoy a great meal at a fabulous cost. Beverage, tax and gratuity are not included.

Having trouble deciding where to eat? Here’s our pick of must try restaurants who are participating.

Benny’s Chop House
Steak, American | Lunch Only (running special all month Feb. 1-Feb. 28!) $22 Menu
444 N. Wabash Ave. | Chicago IL 60611
City-N.Michigan | 312 626-2444
Blackbird Restaurant
American | Lunch & Dinner Menus
619 W. Randolph St.  | Chicago  IL  60661
City-West Loop | 312 715-0708
Cafe Spiaggia
Italian | Lunch & Dinner Menus
980 N. Michigan Ave. | Chicago IL 60611
City-N.Michigan | 312 280-2750
Catch 35
Seafood | Lunch & Dinner Menus
35 W. Wacker Dr. | Chicago IL 60601
City-Loop | 312 346-3500
De Cero
Mexican | Lunch & Dinner Menus
814 W. Randolph St. | Chicago IL 60607
City-West Loop | 312 455-8114
East Bank Club / Maxwell’s at the Club
American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
500 N. Kingsbury St. | Chicago il 60610
City-River North | 312 527-5800
Elate Restaurant
American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menu
111 W. Huron St. | Chicago IL 60654
City-Loop | 312 202-9900
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Steak & Beef | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner only Menu
25 E. Ohio St. | Chicago IL 60611
City-River North | 312 329-9463
Japonais
Japanese | Restarant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
600 W. Chicago Ave. | Chicago IL 60654
City-River North | 312 822-9600
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab
Seafood, Steak & Beef | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
60 E. Grand | Chicago IL 60611
City-N.Michigan | 312 379-5637
La Madia
Italian | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
59 W. Grand Ave.  | Chicago  IL 60654
City-River North | 312 329-0400
Le Colonial Restaurant
Vietnamese | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
937 N. Rush St. | Chicago IL 60611
City-N.Michigan | 312 255-0088
The Lobby at The Peninsula Chicago Menus
Breakfast/brunch | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner
108 E. Superior | Chicago IL 60611
City-N.Michigan | 312 573-6695
Mon Ami Gabi Lincoln Park
French | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner only Menu
Belden Stratford Hotel 2300 N. Lincoln Park W. | Chicago  IL  60614
City-Lincoln Park/Lakeview | 773 348-8886
Nacional 27
Latin | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner Menu
325 W. Huron St.  | Chicago  IL  60610
City-River North | 312 664-2727
Naha
American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
500 N. Clark St. | Chicago IL 60654
City-River North | 312 321-6242
Park Grill
American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner
11 N. Michigan Ave. | Chicago IL 60602
City-Loop | 312 521-7275
Piccolo Sogno Restaurant
Italian | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
464 N. Halsted St. | Chicago IL 60642
City-River West | 312 421-0077
Prairie Fire
American | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch & Dinner Menus
215 N. Clinton St. | Chicago IL 60661
City-Near North | 312 382-8300
Riccardo Trattoria
Italian | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner Menu
2119 N. Clark St. | Chicago IL 60614
City-Lincoln Park/Lakeview | 773 549-0038
Roy’s Chicago
Fusion | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner Menu
720 N. State St. | Chicago IL 60654
City-N.Michigan | 312 787-7599
Salpicon
Mexican | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner Menu
1252 N. Wells St.  | Chicago  IL  60610
City-Near North | 312 988-7811
Topolobampo
Mexican | Restaurant Week Deal: Lunch only Menu
445 N. Clark St.  | Chicago  IL  60610
City-River North | 312 661-1434
Zealous
American | Restaurant Week Deal: Dinner only Menu
419 W. Superior St. | Chicago IL 60654
City-River North | 312 475-9112

Participating restaurants may offer Restaurant Week menus for lunch, dinner or both – at their discretion. Please view individual restaurant profiles for menu details. For a complete list of participating restaurants, go here.

About the authors
Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.com.

Davanti Enoteca takes honest Italian wholesomeness to a new level with a big touch of Chicago creativity

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Davanti Enoteca
1359 W. Taylor St., Chicago
(312) 226-5550
Hours: 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; 11:30 a.m.-midnight, Fri.-Sat.; 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun.
Entrée prices: $10-$14
By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Story originally appeared in Streetwise magazine

This is a story about one of our personal best-kept dining secrets: Davanti Enoteca. We haven’t kept this secret very long—the restaurant has only been open for only four months. But we’ve dined here enough times to know that the place is always bustling and you usually have to wait for a table. Now, with our little secret revealed, the wait will be a bit longer. But don’t let that dissuade you: this place is worth the wait, because extraordinary flavors and textures are only a menu away. So enjoy a glass of wine while you people-watch and savor the anticipation.

This Italian restaurant and wine shop exudes soul and spirit. The atmosphere is very casual, homey and friendly, the kind of place you would absolutely want in your neighborhood. The room is woodsy and several walls are lined with cases of wine. Here you can buy a bottle of wine at retail, not restaurant, prices and after paying the modest $7 corkage fee (which is waived on Sundays), you can enjoy a quality selection from a predominantly Italian wine list.

Davanti Enoteca offers up unorthodox Italian comfort food that one could eat every day and not get tired of. Young rising star executive chef Jonathan Beatty (a chef to watch, we declare) pays homage to Italian tradition but raises the bar with modern ingredients and outstanding flavor and textural combinations. It’s sophisticated food, but it’s also honest, unpretentious and very reasonably priced. The dishes are perfect for sharing and  you can enjoy a tasting journey that is immensely satisfying. Once you’re full, you’ll wonder how such a delicious experience could have such a low price tag.

The extensive menu is intelligently divided into several sections. If you’d like to start by sharing some cheese and prepared meats, you’ll have a generous selection to choose from. Examples include the Burricotta, a creamy, burrata style ricotta cheese; the Grana Padano, an aged parmesan style cheese; Pantaleo, a Sardinian aged goat cheese. Mortadella di Bologna is a heat cured Italian salami; Capicolla Piccante is a cured spicy pork shoulder.

Along the same lines, you will enjoy the Vasi, mini-mason jars of delicious spreads served with Tuscan toast. The Olives Mediterranea are zesty; the Burrata Cheese with sea salt and olive oil is smooth and slightly tangy.
There are several appetizers handsomely served on wooden boards. You must, must, must order the Foccacia di Recco (Ligurian style baked foccacia filled with fresh soft cow cheese). One bite and you’ll know what heaven is like, trust us. Another delight is the Mascarpone Polenta, featuring the ragu of the day presented atop a cushion of polenta.

Antipasti selections continue the wow factor while being perfect for sharing. We love them all, so simply choose what you feel like; you won’t be disappointed. We think the Truffle Egg Toast with Fontina and asparagus is inspired, as are the Roasted Beets with walnut butter and crème candied walnuts.

There are five Salati (salad) selections. We absolutely adore the Roasted Squash with farro, whipped goat cheese, hazelnuts and watercress. Other tasty choices include Shaved Fresh Hearts of Palm with Lolla Rosa, lemon, chili oil and pink peppercorn and the Escarole and Gala Apple with celery and hazelnuts.

The menu offers an ample selection of crispy thin crusted pizzas. Among the interesting pizzas are Pizza Della Fattoria with farmed egg, pork belly, potato and scallions, and the Pizza con Salsiccia e Rapini with Italian mild sausage, broccoli rabe, garlic, chili oil, fresh mozzarella and tomato.

Pasta dishes are perfectly prepared: not overly sauced and perfectly al dente. We have become loyal to our to-die-for respective favorites: she loves the Cacio e Pepe, spaghetti with pecorino and black pepper, while he goes wild for the Riccio di Mare e Granchio, linguine with sea urchin and crab. Other tasty pasta choices include Paccheri con Salsiccia e Pomodori al forno, giant rigatoni with sausage, oven roasted tomato and parmigiano, and i Uovo in Raviolo ‘San Domenico’, giant raviolo with ricotta, egg and spinach.

The main course section offers a palette of well-conceived fish, meat and poultry dishes. One of our favorites is the Pollo ‘Sole Mio’, grilled half chicken with chili pepper paste, and we also love the Polpo con Rafano, seared octopus with warm fingerling potato salad, marcona almonds and fresh horseradish aioli. If you’re in a burger mood, you’ll enjoy the Davanti Burger, a custom blend of grilled ground beef served with bacon jam, roasted tomato, cheese curd, arugula, roasted garlic mayo, and served with seasoned shoestring fries.

Leaving enough room for dessert may be a challenge but, if you’ve paced yourself, you can enjoy such creative delights as the Cannoli Sundae with sweet ricotta, crushed cannoli, pistachios, candied oranges, chocolate sauce and whipped cream or the nicely textured Torta Bacio, chocolate‐hazelnut mousse with a crunchy bottom and cocoa nibs.

There is a daily selection of specials, a large number of wines by the glass and valet parking across the street. By the way, Davanti Enoteca is brought to you by Scott Harris and the folks at Francesca’s Restaurants. We thought we’d save this detail for last. They rock!
About the Authors
Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.com.

The new Bistro One West in St. Charles: "B.O.W. WOW!”

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Bistro One West
1 W. Illinois Street, St. Charles, IL
(630) 444-0600; www.bistro1west.com

Hours:
Lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Tues.-Sat.
Dinner: 5-9 p.m., Tues.-Thurs.; 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat.
Closed on Sun. and Mon.
Price average:
Lunch: $8-12; Dinner: $16-20

By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Photos by Cindy Kurman
Story originally appeared in Streetwise magazine

No, this isn’t about dogs, hot dogs or Asian steamed buns, for that matter. But if the new Bistro One West (B.O.W.) in beautiful downtown St. Charles was a Westminster contestant, it would have a good shot of winning Best in Show.
Bistro One West has the pedigree to be taken seriously by food lovers. The owner is George Guggeis, who made a name for himself as the owner of the beloved Chicago restaurant, Mango, among others. The executive chef is the versatile and consummate Doug D’Avico, who put Trattoria No. 10 on Chicago’s Italian go-to list for many years.
These two friendly, down-to-earth guys have joined forces to create a Modern American bistro which will do much to make the tri-cities area (St. Charles, Geneva and Batavia) an even more attractive place to enjoy a weekend getaway from Chicago. The restaurant sits on the west bank of the Fox River, and its spacious outdoor deck will no doubt be the place to go once the warm weather kicks in this spring.
But for now, while we are still in the midst of winter, suffice it to say that the interior immediately speaks “warm and comfortable gathering place.” Combining rustic exposed brick walls with colorful artwork, warm artistic lighting, earth-toned tile floors, dark woods and comfortable seating, the space has been created with the confident eye of designer Vicki Tesmer.
In the front of the restaurant there is a bustling bar area that’s perfect for the upscale locals who, in Bistro One West, have found a perfect hangout with a sophisticated wine and cocktail program.

The L-shaped dining room features leather booths with a window view of the river as well as tables that are nicely spaced. The atmosphere is good for both social and business dining and there is a semi-private dining room for special events.

The top draw is the food, however, and D’Avico delivers on his promise to offer fresh, locally sourced seasonal food that is predominately American but also takes advantage of his prodigious Italian skills. The presentations are handsome and the ingredients are first-rate. Note that there is a separate lunch menu that only slightly overlaps the dinner menu.
At dinnertime, the appetizers get everything off to a roaring good start. We loved the Burrata, a fresh mozzarella-type cheese with a creamy center, served with delicious roasted tomatoes.
We were joyfully surprised by the Deviled Eggs filled with Maine Lobster—it’s a classic brought to a whole new level. Other good choices include the White Polenta with Crispy Pork Belly, served with red mole and heirloom radishes and the Jumbo Prawns with garlic, chili threads, shallots and grilled Ciabatta. A nice vegetarian choice is the Ancient Sweet Pepper with Dunbarton bleu cheese and applewood smoked bacon.

Salad lovers can choose between the tasty Shaved Roasted Beets with Nopales Salad, served with pickled Jalapeno and feta cheese, and the Bibb Leaf Salad with roasted tomatoes, herb dressing and fried parsnips.

The main courses are particularly interesting, well chosen and comforting. There is something for everyone and the choices are diverse enough to keep it interesting for those who are inclined to frequent the restaurant often.

Meat lovers will enjoy the
Berkshire Pork Cutlets with spicy snap peas and roasted corn pudding—a quite original dish, and the tender Grilled Waygu Steak, served with avocado butter and fingerling home fries. The Braised Veal Short Ribs, with caramelized onion relish and natural reductions, are as tender as can be. The robust pasta specialty is a perfectly prepared Pappardelle with Berkshire Pork, tomatoes and Pecorino Romano cheese.

On the lighter side, fish fans can go for the delightful Organic Irish Salmon with roasted cauliflower, applewood smoked bacon and mint or the Lake Superior Walleye with radicchio cole slaw, Shitake, green onion butter sauce. The poultry dish is Herb Roasted Amish Chicken with roasted carrots, lemon, cinnamon and pearl onions and, for vegetarians, there is a flavorful Roasted Poblano Pepper, spicy lentils, red shallots, spinach, feta and tomato.

Dessert lovers can find plenty to choose from, but at some point you’ll simply have to try the Butter & Bread Pudding with poached berry compote. D’Avico has taken a small loaf of bread, sliced it thinly and then applied the appropriate magic to turn it into a to-die-for mini-French toast with a wonderfully sweet and tangy topping. Very unique and extremely good; bravo!
Other desserts include Caramelized Roasted Banana with baked cinnamon wonton and Nutella cream; Baked Pears with Marsala, cinnamon, lemon, sun-dried cherries, and a rich Chocolate Pot e Crème with roasted pumpkin seed brittle.

The final good news is that Bistro One West has kept the pricing reasonable so that regular visits can be enjoyed. The parking is free and the staff is very gracious and enthusiastic. It’s great news for this part of the Chicago area, and worth the drive for a unique, even if brief, escape from the city. Check out the website for a peek at the lunch and cocktail menus.

Cindy Kurman Barrie and Lee Barrie are the principals of Kurman Communications, Inc., a Chicago-based marketing and public relations agency. Please visit their blog at www.gotbuzzatkurman.com and check out all DineWise articles at www.dinewisechicago.blogspot.com. Photos by Cindy Kurman