Celebrating Thanksgiving Throughout Chicagoland

Posted on October 30, 2013 by dinewise

There are countless ways to enjoy celebrating Thanksgiving in Chicago. Whether dining in or out, these restaurants and businesses are offering specials that will make it easy to entertain.

Delightful Pastries. Bring home delicious, homemade pies from Delightful Pastries for all to

Chocolate Pecan Bourbon Pie
from Delightful Pastries

enjoy this Thanksgiving. Whatever is your fancy, Delightful Pastries’ new expanded pie menu will have something to suit your taste. Included are traditional selections like Apple Pie, Pumpkin Pie and Pecan Pie and the not so traditional Apple Caramel, Cranberry Fudge, Coconut Chocolate, and Bourbon Chocolate Pecan. All pies ($25) serve 8-10 people; are made from scratch and use no artificial flavors or preservatives.

For those entertaining for the weekend, pick up a breakfast/brunch savory pie such as the Spinach Lamb ($58), Veggie Quiche ($42), or Ham Quiche ($42). Other items on Delightful Pastries’ to go catering menu include: winter and grain salads, mini-pastry trays, international cookie trays and brownie trays. Pre-orders are recommended and package pricing is available. Orders may be placed at all three Delightful Pastries locations: 5927 W. Lawrence Avenue, in the Jefferson Park neighborhood (phone: 773-545-7215); the Old Town Chicago location at 1710 N. Wells St., just north of North Avenue (phone: 312-255-0724) and the Chicago French Market location at 131 N. Clinton Ave. (phone: 312-234-9644).

Delightful Pastries’ International Cookies Are Perfect for Holiday Entertaining

Macaron’s from Delightful Pastries

November starts the holiday season and entertaining is on everyone’s mind. Delightful Pastries makes it easy, with an array of international cookies, all holiday favorites from around the globe. Available are Cucidati (Sicilian Fig Cookies), Viennese Almond Crescents, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Polish Kolaczki (Raspberry, Apricot, Cheese), Christmas Mice, Rugula, Linzer and Italian Rainbow Cookies ($19/lb. or by platter, $20-$30). French Macarons ($30 lb.) and Chanukah Macaroons ($1.75 each) also are available.

Maxwell’s at the Club Thanksgiving

The East Bank Club is hosting Thanksgiving dinner at its place this year and you’re invited. The East Bank Club’s signature restaurant, Maxwell’s at the Club (500 N. Kingsbury St., Chicago), is offering a traditional turkey dinner buffet with all the trimmings, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., November 28.

Executive chef Mike Lodes is featuring a variety of appetizer and salad , a carving station with Roast Turkey served with gravy and natural jus, Roast Prime Rib of Beef with horseradish sauce, and Roast Leg of Lamb with mint jelly, and an abundance of side options. To finish off, guests will be treated to an impressive spread of seasonal fruits, assorted cakes, tortes, cookies, and cupcakes, and pies. The price is $45 for adults, $15 for children 10 and under. Reservations can be placed online at maxwellsattheclub.com or by calling (312)527-5800 ext. 301.

East Bank Club’s Food Shop’s Thanksgiving To-go

If you plan to entertain at home this Thanksgiving, East Bank’s Food Shop will be delighted to do the cooking. The Chefs at the Food Shop have put together a complete Thanksgiving menu to suit a variety of tastes. You have the choice of ordering a la carte from their entire menu or selecting the Thanksgiving Package. With the latter option the Food Shop chefs have curated their version of an ideal holiday meal. For the complete Thanksgiving menu visit eastbankclub.com, and to place your order call (312) 527 5800 ext. 318.

Prairie Grass Cafe

Northbrook’s Prairie Grass Cafe (601 Skokie Blvd.; 847-205-4433) chefs Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris want to make your Thanksgiving dinner perfect and easy. The two award winning chefs have announced their “Thanksgiving To Go 2013” menu available for pre-order now. All orders must be received no later than Sunday, November 24 for pickup at the restaurant on Thursday, November 28 between noon and 3 p.m.

The à la carte menu includes everything you would want for the perfect Thanksgiving celebration. Start with a whole Roasted Turkey and Gravy, serving between 10 and 14 people for $110 or half a turkey to serve between 5 and 7 people for $60.

Homemade Apple Sage Stuffing ($14/quart) and Homemade Sausage and Giblet Stuffing ($24/quart) are available by the quart, serving between 4 and 6 people.

A variety of homemade appetizers include Butternut Squash Soup (Serves 4/$20/quart), Organic Mixed Green Salad with Shaved Parmesan, Pumpkin Seeds and Pomegranate (Serves 6-8/$45); Jumbo Cocktail Shrimp with Homemade Horseradish Sauce ($42/dozen); cut vegetable assortment with Amish blue cheese dip (Serves 6-8/$35); or Smoked Salmon Platter with Cream Cheese, Cucumbers, Capers and Red Onions with Pumpernickel and Whole Grain Baguettes (serves 6-8/$65).

Prairie Grass Cafe Pumpkin Pie

Side dishes include Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes (pint/2-3 servings/$7; quart/4-6 servings/$14); Sweet Potato Puree (pint/2-3 servings/$8; quart/4-6 servings/$16); Sautéed Green Beans (pint/2-3 servings/$8; quart/4-6 servings/$16); Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Chestnuts (pint/2-3 servings/$12; quart/4-6 servings/$24); and Local Cranberry Sauce (pint/2-5 servings/$8; quart/6-10 servings/$16).

A Prairie Grass Cafe Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without Mom’s Homemade Heirloom Pumpkin Pie ($24/pie/6 slices); Mom’s Pecan Pie ($24/pie/6 slices) or Double Chocolate Cake ($50/cake/10-12 servings).

Not in the mood to entertain at home? Bring your family and friends to Prairie Grass Cafe this Thanksgiving

Prairie Grass Cafe will be serving a Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner, 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday, November 28. The cost of $49 per person includes a choice of Butternut Squash Soup or Organic Mixed Green Salad with Pumpkin Seeds, Parmesan, Pomegranate and Balsamic Dressing; Oven Roasted Turkey with Mashed Potatoes and Homemade Gravy; Apple Chestnut Stuffing; Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash with Homemade Marshmallow Topping; fresh vegetable; local cranberry sauce, and choice of Mom’s Heirloom Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie or Double Chocolate Cake. Reservations are required.

Chicago French Market provides one-stop shopping for the Thanksgiving Holidays

Whether it’s a hostess gift, cooking supplies or a meal to go, the Chicago French Market provides opportunities for Thanksgiving shopping under one roof.

Abby Brown Artisan Soaps is featuring its ever popular Pumpkin Bars this month. A

Abbey Brown Pumpkin Soap

perfect hostess gift for Thanksgiving and the holidays at only $8.50 per bar, Abbey Brown Soap Artisan creates handmade natural Olive Oil soaps, soothing body oils and relaxing bathing essentials. They make all of their fine products in house, infusing homegrown herbs and botanicals with pure essential oils.

Picking out the perfect wine to pair with Thanksgiving dinner or to bring as a gift is difficult if you’re not wine knowledgeable. When seeking expert advice, look no further than Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine at Chicago French Market. Pastoral is the perfect shop to learn more and receive expert help in choosing the perfect wine. Staff is trained to know wine and how to pair to complement foods. Stop by Pastoral for advice throughout November.

Stop at Oh Olive! at the French Market and sample its delicious Wild Mushroom and Sage extra virgin olive oil. It’s a perfect enhancement for drizzling over turkey before roasting or for using it to make delicious and unique rye bread turkey dressing.

Not everyone serves a traditional turkey for Thanksgiving, according to the folks at Sam’s

Sam’s Gourmet Lasagna

Gourmet Lasagna. Sam’s offers a delicious ground turkey lasagna and has introduced a Steak & Potato Lasagna just in time for the holidays. They have upped their to go pre-packaged offerings for holiday gift, entertaining and corporate events.

Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day in Chicago September 18

Posted on September 17, 2012 by prcindy

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.

Treat: A spot that lights up the neighborhood

Posted on March 30, 2011 by prcindy

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.

Wishbone offers a fine casual excursion into Southern food delights

Posted on November 13, 2009 by prcindy

Wishbone
http://www.wishbonechicago.com/
West Loop:
1001 W. Washington Blvd.
Chicago, IL
(312) 850-2663

Northside:
3300 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL
(773) 549-2663

Berwyn:
6611 W. Roosevelt Rd.
Berwyn, IL
(708) 749-1295

Hours:
Breakfast: 7-11 a.m., Monday-Friday
Lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday
Dinner: 5-9 p.m., Tues., Wed., Thurs., Sun.; 5-10 p.m. Fri., Sat.
Brunch: 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sat., Sun.

Pricing:
Breakfast: Omelettes, $6.50-$11.95; pancakes, etc., $4.95-$9.95
Lunch/Dinner: Sandwiches and Entrees, $5.95-$14.95

By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Story originally appeared in StreetWise

Anytime we hear that our friends have gone down South for a vacation or business, we immediately have visions of hearty, delicious Southern food. Calories aside, there is no regional American cuisine that is more interesting or comforting than this never-ending feast of the senses. From Louisville to Memphis, Charlotte to Charleston, Atlanta to Savannah, all the way down to New Orleans, this culinary journey is a most satisfying trip indeed.

Thankfully, Chicagoans can take this adventure by travelling to Wishbone in any of three locations: North Center and the West Loop in the city and Berwyn in the near western ‘burbs.

These colorful and rustic eateries attract all age ranges, for good reason. They’re come-as-you-are-spots, the food is reliably good, portions are large and the prices are reasonable. The seating is comfortable, a combination of booths and tables. Wishbone serves breakfast all day; lunch begins at 11 a.m. and dinner service begins at 5 p.m. The menu is extensive and there are daily specials. For many, breakfast (it’s more like brunch), is the main draw. You can go with traditional, Southern inspired breakfast creations or choose a more complex, savory one.

Our personal favorites are the zesty Corn Cakes, with corn, scallions and a creamy red pepper sauce on the side. The cakes have the right touch of heat and sweetness and don’t need additional syrup. We also love the decadent Shrimp and Grits, with bacon, scallions, mushrooms, wine and cream over cheese grits. Wow.

Omelette choices are plentiful. If you like yours on the traditional side, you’ll enjoy the Bacon or Sausage Omelette, the Denver Omelette and the Wishbone Omelette, with potatoes, onions, cheddar cheese and salsa. A little more on the creative side are the Light Spinach Omelette, made with egg whites, fresh spinach, tomato and mushroom; the Kentucky Scrambled Eggs, scrambled eggs with corn, onion, and green pepper topped with strips of bacon. The Southern Benedict is another tasty choice, two poached eggs served on biscuit with ham and topped with sausage gravy.

If you’re in the mood for a grain-based breakfast, there are plenty of interesting picks. The Crunchy French Toast is dipped in corn flakes; the Wishbone Fruit Pancakes can be ordered with mango, blueberries, bananas, chocolate chips or strawberries. The Biscuits & Gravy features homemade biscuits smothered in white sausage gravy with plenty of sausage.

If you’d rather go with a savory breakfast entrée, you’ll be pleased with the many Southern inspired creations. Choose farm raised Blackened Catfish with Cajun spices, two eggs, home fries, black beans or grits and choice of corn muffin, biscuit or toast. Crawfish Cakes are served with sweet red pepper sauce, two eggs, home fries, black beans or grits, and choice of corn muffin, biscuit or toast, or the North Carolina Crab Cakes, blue claw patties in spicy outer banks style served with lemon butter sauce, two eggs, home fries, black beans or grits and choice of corn muffin, biscuit or toast. The entrées come with choice of side dishes and there are even more ala carte sides to enhance your meal, plus freshly squeezed fruit juices, espresso beverages and baked goods.

Lunch kicks in at 11 a.m. and dinner begins at 5 p.m.; you can design either a lighter meal or a comfort food delight—the menus are similar for both. Salad choices include Louisiana Chicken Salad, blackened chicken breast served warm on a bed of lettuce, tomato/cucumber, with a Corn Muffin; you can add fresh or sautéed spinach.

Sandwiches include the Chicken Breast Sandwich, with charbroiled or blackened breast and the Backyard Burger made from 8 oz. of naturally raised, hormone-free Meyers Angus Beef. Vegetarian choices include the Virginia Veggie Burger made with a homemade vegan patty of brown rice, lentils, black beans and roasted vegetables and the Hoppin’ John, featuring black-eyed peas or the Hoppin’ Jack, featuring black beans, either one served on rice and topped with cheddar cheese, scallions and tomatoes. If you’re ready to indulge in a Po’Boy sandwich, you can select either Crawfish or Chicken Andouille sausage.

Entrées are hearty, served with cole slaw, corn muffin and choice of two sides. Interesting choices include the Atlantic Salmon Cakes, Crawfish Cakes, Blackened Catfish and Chicken with Mango Salsa. Wishbone also offers traditional Southern specials on the weekdays, such as Fresh Turkey Breast with sausage stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce; North Carolina Crab Cakes; North Carolina Pulled Pork in a vinegar & BBQ sauce; Herb Crusted Tilapia; Jambalaya; Chicken Fried Steak; Pan Fried Chicken and Blackened Atlantic Salmon.

Since you’ve already stretched your stomach, why not finish off the meal in true Southern style with a piece of pie? Have fun choosing: Banana Cream, Sweet Potato, Chocolate Pecan, Chocolate Mousse, Apple Cranberry Crisp, Apple, Pecan, Peach Cobbler, Bread Pudding, Key Lime Pie, Pumpkin Pie, even Brownie Pie.

Wishbone has just the right mix to keep you coming back for more and more and more.

Note: DineWise is a weekly column appearing in StreetWise magazine. Lee Barrie is on the StreetWise board of directors and he and his wife Cindy own Kurman Communications, a Chicago-based public relations agency specializing in lifestyle, restaurant and hospitality strategic branding, marketing promotions, media relations and social networking. If you’d like your restaurant to be featured on the DineWise blog and in StreetWise magazine, please contact DineWise@kurman.com.

Kan Zaman’s Lebanese Cuisine Stands Out from the Crowd

Posted on October 14, 2009 by prcindy

Kan Zaman
617 N. Wells
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 751-9600
www.kanzamanchicago.com

Hours:
11 a.m.-10 p.m., Monday-Thursday
11 a.m.-midnight, Friday
Noon-midnight Saturday
1-10 p.m. Sunday

Pricing:
Appetizers, $4.95-$10.95;
Lunch Entrées, $8.95-$10.95;
Dinner entrées, $10.95-$19.95

By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Original story appeared in StreetWise

Chicago’s neighborhoods are filled with restaurants that are—from the outside—innocuous enough to simply pass by without a second thought. They’re typically not using a publicist to spread the word and so you only notice them when a friend you trust gives you the heads up. This is especially true among Middle Eastern restaurants. There are many of them around the city but most stay under the radar.

We were pleasantly surprised when a high-powered husband and wife chef team suggested Kan Zaman, a Lebanese restaurant in River North, telling us it was one their favorites in Chicago. In a neighborhood filled with stylish, chic eateries, this place is less noticeable but worthy of the recommendation.

We should say at the outset that we like Middle Eastern food and we enjoy it on a fairly regular basis. It has a comforting warmth and enough interesting spiciness to tickle the palate without overdoing it. It’s also a healthy way to eat, in moderation of course. We’re not experts, but we’ve been in enough Middle Eastern restaurants to have a point of comparison. Kan Zaman stands up to the competition in a big way. The food is accessible but very good.

Entering on Wells Street, we liked the casual, comfortable seating and the warm room colors. The front windows open wide, bringing in the fresh air and sunshine. A nice display of Lebanese artifacts and artwork envelops the dining room. There are Western-style table and chairs on one side and cushion-laden Middle Eastern style seating on the other side. Take your pick.

We started our meal with the Vegetarian Combo, offering a taste of many appetizers, most of which we have tried at other places. We were pleasantly surprised at the quality and quantity of food. The Hummos had just the right amount of sesame tahini, the Baba Ghannouj was flavorful and smoothly textured; the Tabouleh was nicely herbed and chewy. The Falafel was crispy, tasty and not greasy. The Spinach and Cheese pie was subtle and flaky. For our main course, we chose to share a Shawarma dinner. As we ordered, we wondered if that would be enough food. No problem—the portion was very large and we noted how excellent the preparation was. The spiced lamb and beef was moist, tender and fresh.

The Kan Zaman menu offers a large selection of mainly well-known, popular dishes. There are nearly a dozen and a half choices for appetizers alone. In addition to the Vegetarian Combo, other interesting selections include Sautéed Mushrooms in a special marinara sauce; Lubia (sautéed fresh green beans in olive oil with tomatoes); Foul Modammas (fava been dip with garlic, hot peppers); Dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and Grilled Cheese (Lebanese cheese sautéed with olive oil topped with crushed pistachios, tomatoes and calamata olive). Hot appetizers include Kibbeh (deep fired bulgur spheres stuffed with ground beef and onions); Arayess (seasoned ground beef and lamb with garlic, onions and tomatoes); Makanek (spiced beef and lamb baby sausages sautéed in garlic and lemon-pomegranate sauce).

Salads are an important part of Middle Eastern cuisine and Kam Zaman doesn’t disappoint, with six familiar choices. Choose the simple Lebanese or Feta salads or go a step further with the Jerusalem Salad, Chicken Salad, Shawarma Salad and Fattoush.

Pita sandwiches are served with delicious Lebanese fries (seasoned with Lebanese thyme). Choices include Falafel, Shawarma (beef and lamb), Chicken Shawarma, Kafta Kabob (ground beef and lamb), Shish Tawook (marinated breast of chicken kabob), and Hummos.

Lunchgoers can enjoy very reasonably priced specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Excellent choices include a variety of kabobs: Beef, Lamb, Kafta or the Combo. The Mediterranean Sautée offers a choice of chicken, lamb or beef with sautéed vegetables, potatoes, onions, green peppers, tomatoes and mushrooms.

Dinnertime entrée specials that are worth a try include the Lamb Chops (baby lamb chops charbroiled and served with fresh tomatoes), Quail (juicy marinated charbroiled quails, served with tomatoes, onions and green peppers); Vegetarian Moussaa (sautéed eggplant, potatoes, green peppers, onions, mushrooms, fresh tomatoes). Seafood lovers will enjoy the Grilled Salmon, Shrimp Kabob and the Shrimp Sautée.

If you’re in River North and want to dine simply but well, we like this place. It’s been around for a long time and, now that we’ve been there, we’re not surprised. It’s also BYOB, so bring along a nice bottle of your favorite.

Evergreen is a Chinatown spot that satisfies

Posted on October 4, 2009 by prcindy

Evergreen
2411 S. Wentworth Avenue
Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 225-8898

Hours:
Open 7 days 11:30 a.m. to midnight, Sunday-Thursday
11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Friday and Saturday

Prices: $8-$14 for regular entrées; up to $30 for special fish or seafood dishes

By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Story originally appeared in StreetWise

Discussing what is the best Chinese restaurant in Chicago’s Chinatown is like debating which is better, Mac or PC. There will never be a clear winner because different folks like different experiences. Plus, there are just too many choices in Chinatown for any one restaurant to gain the majority vote. So, what one should hope for in a visit to Chinatown is high quality, but not necessarily superlative, food and an enjoyable time strolling through the neighborhood’s gift shops, bakeries and food markets. When we recently accompanied our friends to Evergreen restaurant, based on their recommendation, we had very good food and a quite pleasant experience.

Evergreen is handsomely, but not necessarily stylishly, appointed. The dining room is large and able to handle big groups. The menu is divided into numerous sections featuring fare most Americans would be familiar with plus some enhanced house specialties. An additional green-colored menu presents dishes that are a bit more authentically Chinese. All in all, there is a very large selection from which to choose.

We started with a variety of shared appetizers. The traditional egg rolls, hot and fresh, were delicious. We also ordered some tasty fried wontons which were of homemade quality and surprisingly non-greasy. Other good choices were the pot stickers and chicken lettuce wraps.

For main courses, we ordered three entrees and a side of Szechuan stir-fried green beans. Our server informed us they had no green beans and suggested pea pods instead, which turned out to be a fine substitute. When in a Chinese restaurant, we always hunt for the Crispy Shrimp and Walnuts, which is usually not on the menu. At Evergreen we were excited to find it. With its slightly sweet juxtaposition of chewy and crunchy, it’s a unique recipe. Evergreen’s rendition was as good as any we’ve had, which is quite a compliment.

We were surprised when our foodie friend ordered Cantonese-style Chicken Chow Mein, but once it was served we totally understood: It’s a beautifully presented dish that’s infinitely better than the chopped-up concoction you get at your typical Chinese take-out. Finally, we shared a Crispy Duck with Taro Root. This dish, from the green “authentic” menu, featured a nice breaded boneless duck breast and resembled a shepherd’s pie. Sandwiched in between two layers of duck meat was a layer of mashed taro root, which has the texture of mashed potatoes but a unique, pleasing flavor.

We had no room for dessert, but with several Chinese bakeries on the street, finding a delectable sweet while strolling nearby is easy. Enjoy the neighborhood.

Essence of India offers refined, superbly interpreted South Asian cuisine

Posted on October 4, 2009 by prcindy

Essence of India
4601 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 506-0002
http://www.essenceofindiachicago.com/

Hours:
Lunch: noon-2:30 p.m., Friday-Sunday
Dinner: 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m., Mon., Wed., Thurs., Sun.; 5 p.m.-10:30 p.m., Fri., Sat.
Closed on Tuesday.
Entrée Prices: $8.95 – $15.95

By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Story originally appeared in StreetWise

Chicago’s storefront Indian restaurants are numerous. Although many are concentrated in the Rogers Park neighborhood, there are some gems to be found in other areas. One of our favorites is Essence of India, a three-year old neighborhood spot in Lincoln Square that has been consistently popular since it opened.

We consider Essence of India to be a particularly well thought-out and proud establishment. The décor is simple and warm, with silk tablecloths and interesting artifacts. The service is humble, gracious and attentive. The food is traditional but is prepared in a refined way that brings out the best in the dishes. The recipes may be familiar but the quality and tastiness of the final product is well above the norm. At Essence of India it is always a satisfying and fun dining experience.

First, a word about the Naan bread: it’s as good as you’ll find anywhere—tender and hot, fresh from the oven. So enjoy it plain or in such varieties as garlic, lamb or onion.

The appetizers are perfect for sharing and provide a great opening for the adventure to follow. Our favorite is the Vegetable Samosas, an appetizer consisting of two deep fried crispy stuffed pastries with potatoes and green peas, is delicious and creates a perfect opener. Another appetizer that we love is Jhinga Karahi, deep fried marinated shrimp.
If you would like to share more appetizers, order the Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian Samplers, each with a variety from the appetizer menu.

The entrée choices showcase Essence of India’s exacting, balanced sauces in a variety of textures, flavors and levels of heat. Our entrée favorites include the Chicken Malai Kabob, the house specialty of boneless marinated chicken on a skewer and prepared in the tandoori clay oven. We also like the Lamb Palak, lamb and fresh spinach leaves cooked in a pungent spicy sauce of ginger, coriander, garlic and garam masala.

Vegetarians will delight in the menu; there are fourteen vegetarian entrées to choose from. Our favorite is the Mutter Paneer, a combination of cheese and peas cooked in a creamy sauce. Often, we’ll spoon this dish on top of some yummy basmati rice and enjoy the hearty combination.

If you’re a tandoori oven fan, you have seven items to choose from, including the Chicken Malai Kabob mentioned earlier, plus Tandoori Shrimp, Chicken Tandoori, Lamb Chops and Murg Tikka, a yogurt marinated boneless chicken barbecued in the tandoori oven.

Among the chicken dishes, the Butter Chicken (Chicken Makhani), tandoori chicken simmered in a tomato sauce with butter and spices, and The Murg Lajwab, a chicken curry, are excellent. We also enjoy the spicy Bhuna Chicken, simmered in a masala sauce with onions, garlic, tomato, ginger and green chilies. An interesting twist is found with the Achari Murgh, chicken cooked with ground spices such as cumin, rye, fennel and fenugreek.

If you’re a lamb aficionado, you will have six choices. Our favorite is the Gosht Korma, cubes of lamb cooked in a sweet saffron sauce with raisins and almonds.

In the fish section, we fancy the Goan Fish Curry, a spicy dish of catfish cooked in a coconut curry sauce and the Jhinga Masala, shrimp cooked with onions, ginger and spices.

Don’t underestimate the value of the rice dishes: the entrée sauces are so delicious you’ll find yourself spooning them onto a bed of rice so you can continue to delight in them even after the meat or vegetables are devoured. There are several rice choices, so you’ll have a great time, and you’ll be satiated, without a doubt.

We can’t even talk about dessert, because we’ve always been too full to try it. Our suggestion would be to go for something on the refreshing, palate cleansing side.

After a meal at Essence of India, you’ll understand why it has become a place we return to when we want a food experience that leaves us smiling and glad we came, each and every time. If you think you don’t like Indian food, I would reserve judgment until you’ve been here. You’ll likely be pleasantly surprised.

Note: DineWise is a weekly column appearing in StreetWise magazine. Lee Barrie is on the StreetWise board of directors and he and his wife Cindy own Kurman Communications, a Chicago-based public relations agency specializing in lifestyle, restaurant and hospitality strategic branding, marketing promotions, media relations and social networking. If you’d like your restaurant to be featured on the DineWise blog and in StreetWise magazine, please contact DineWise@kurman.com.

Bittersweet Pastry Shop brings charm, pastry of France to Chicago

Posted on September 29, 2009 by prcindy

Bittersweet Pastry Shop
1114 W. Belmont
Chicago, IL (773) 929-1100
http://www.bittersweetpastry.com/

Hours:
7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Tuesday through Friday
8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
Closed Monday

Prices:
Tarts: $20-30Cakes: $24-$100 (for custom cakes) Cookies: $15/lb Scones, croissants, muffins: $2.50-$3 Ice cream, $3 Bittersweet brings the joy of the French Patisserie to Lakeview

By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Story originally appeared in StreetWise

When we travel to France or the French Caribbean, each morning we head to the local patisserie to enjoy some fabulous croissants or brioche and café au lait. What makes patisseries so noteworthy is that they are everywhere. Even the small towns have their local, colorful patisserie—it’s “everyman’s” way of having breakfast, as well as the place to go for wonderful baked goods that are perfect any time of the day. The patisserie is a celebration of baking talent, ingenuity and aesthetics, making it the perfect place to go for a tasty and stimulating start to the day.

Luckily, Chicagoans don’t have to travel further than the Lakeview neighborhood to enjoy an authentic French patisserie experience. Acclaimed pastry chef Judy Contino opened Bittersweet over a decade ago and has built a fiercely loyal following—for good reason. The glass display cases are filled with delicate and delicious goodies, made with skill and tender loving care, just as in France.

We stopped in for breakfast recently (Bittersweet also serves lunch) and took stock of all the wondrous things that make Bittersweet so special. Our journey started by comfortably sitting down at a handsome marble top table and peering about the room. The ceiling fans and the clean, white walls make for a comfortable, unpretentious décor. Classical music permeates the room—it’s serene and welcoming.

On the wall is a handwritten breakfast menu board. Signature breakfast items include the quiche du jour and homemade granola, both served with fruit. Other choices include apple French toast and a vegetable frittata panini.

The breakfast goodies are amazing. We shared two homemade scones, one apricot and one ginger-peach—as good as scones get. The breakfast pastry display is a sight for tired eyes. Gorgeous croissants, scones, brioche, pecan rolls, tea bread and muffins. It’s almost impossible to decide what to choose. On weekends, when traffic is heavier, there are even more croissant varieties to choose from.

To accompany the scones, we enjoyed cappuccino made with the excellent Italian Illy coffee. The friendly staff is more than happy to make your espresso beverage the way you like it. Try a mocha or a café au lait. Other beverages include hot chocolate and fresh orange juice. A variety of unique carbonated beverages are also available.

The display cases feature beautifully executed baked goods; there is a steady stream of customers buying these items to go. You’ll find cookies, biscotti, cupcakes, coffee cake, tarts, bars, macaroons, cakes, custards, mousses, tartlets, truffles, and breads. Bittersweet’s cakes are legendary; call a day or two in advance and you can order a personalized birthday cake, made to order.

Walking around Bittersweet, we smiled at the special attractions making this patisserie more than a simple bake shop. There is a gelato display case with several flavors of ice cream and sorbets. Add hot fudge or caramel sauce for decadent joy.

Along the walls are shelves and tables displaying packaged foods and children’s gifts. There are Bittersweet-branded nuts and snacks, perfect accompaniments to the pastries.
You’ll find packages of the spectacular Terry’s Toffee, made in Chicago. There is an assortment of bottled French fruit syrups which, when combined with club soda or seltzer, make for a wonderful homemade soda pop, or use them as an ice cream topping.

What a pleasant morning adventure! Try making Bittersweet a regular part of your morning breakfast or weekly pastry-shopping routine. You’ll know the meaning of joie de vivre (in Chicago). Bonjour, nous amis.

Berry Chill’s Yogurt Couture Puts Frozen Yogurt Back on the Hot List

Posted on September 29, 2009 by prcindy

Berry Chill
http://www.berrychill.com/
625 N. State St., Chicago, IL
(312) 266-2445

132 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL
(312) 553-2445

500 W. Madison (Ogilvie Station), Chicago, IL
(312) 993-9644

Hours:
State: 8 a.m. to midnight, Sun.-Thurs.; 8 a.m.- 4 a.m., Fri. and Sat.
LaSalle: 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Mon.-Fri.
Madison (Ogilvie): 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. and Sun.

Pricing (with three toppings):
Cup: small $3.99-$4.99; medium $5.49-$6.49; large $7.49-$8.49
Blast or Blender: small $5.49-$6.49; large $7.49-$8.49

By Lee Barrie and Cindy Kurman
Story originally appeared in StreetWise

Okay, we know that frozen yogurt had its heyday back in the 80’s with TCBY and other such shops. So why all the fuss now? The answer is simple – today’s frozen yogurt, is wonderfully represented by Berry Chill, a growing collection of whimsical contemporary stores in Chicago. Berry Chill’s frozen yogurt is deliciously and healthfully made – and filling – to the point where it could substitute for a light meal when you’re on the run. And please let healthfulness be a deciding factor: Berry Chill is filled with active cultures and is lactose and gluten-free.

The joys of Berry Chill derive from both the yogurt and the many toppings you can add to personalize your treat. Start out your adventure by choosing your choice of yogurt flavor. Usually there are four flavors to choose from and all have the texture of soft serve and a delightful tanginess that reminds you this is really yogurt, not ice cream or some other concoction. The standard flavor is a refreshing vanilla that goes nicely with all of the toppings. The other flavors vary from month to month. Usually they are a fruit flavor, such as mango, strawberry or peach. For July, the special flavors are Peach Mango, Pina Colada and Strawberry Banana.

Then choose your toppings. They fall into four categories: 1) fresh fruit, 2) candies, cookies and nuts 3) popular cereals, and 4) treats from local bakeries. Depending on your mood and what time of day it is, you may go in any one direction or choose toppings from all four categories.

The fresh fruit selections, combined with some granola or trail mix topping and sliced almonds, can turn your treat into a healthy light meal, with whole grains and anti-oxidants. Fruit choices include fresh blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, kiwi fruit, strawberries, mango, or watermelon.

The popular cereal toppings include the adult favorite, Kashi Go Lean! Crunch, and kids’ favorites such as Lucky Charms, Fruity Pebbles, Cap’n Crunch and Golden Grahams.

The candy, cookies and nuts toppings place your Berry Chill treat squarely in the dessert category. If you crave Girl Scout cookies all year, you’re in luck. Berry Chill offers bits of Thin Mints, Tag-a-Longs and Samoas. Other sweet-tooth choices include mini-chocolate chips, M&Ms, mini Oreos, shredded coconut, peanut butter covered pretzels, and sprinkles.

Finally, Berry Chill showcases toppings from local bakeries and food makers. Currently you can find toppings from Sarah’s Pastries and Candies, Milk & Honey Granola, and Leonard’s Bakery.

If you’re in the mood for something other than a dish of yogurt, try a BC Blast or BC Blender. Both are made from a flavor of yogurt and three toppings, but the Blast is served chunky style and the Blender is served like a smoothie. The Fro-J is another refresher, made from a choice of yogurt and fresh squeezed orange juice.

We couldn’t help but notice that the State Street location is open until 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. If you’ve been out clubbing till the wee hours, Berry Chill is a great way to wind down your evening. Chill.

de cero’s Taqueria Intriguing and Fun

Posted on August 11, 2009 by prcindy

de cero: A modern day taqueria
814 W. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60607
312-455-8114
http://decerotaqueria.com/

Taco price range: $3.25-$4.85
Entrée price range: $11.75-$18.15

Hours: lunch is served Mon.-Fri. from 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Dinner: Mon.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5-11 p.m.; Sun., 5-9 p.m.

There are probably hundreds of taquerias throughout Chicagoland, and one we find intriguing and fun is de cero, a popular spot in the heart of West Loop’s “restaurant row.” This casual, minimalist eatery serves up a creative, flavorful array of tacos and other Mexican-inspired dishes. It’s the kind of place that pleases foodies and non-foodies alike because, while the creations are interesting and the ingredients are of high quality, there is no pretense. de cero offers a wide variety of contemporary takes on traditional Mexican street food, with an urban sensibility that’s quite in tune with today’s tastes.

The signature dishes at de cero are the amazing tacos; there are 16 varieties on the menu plus additional daily specials. All are served in fresh, homemade soft tortillas. The tacos can be ordered ala carte (3-4 per person are quite filling) or by the combination plate which includes 8 tacos, any flavor, plus 3 house salsas for $32. Some of our favorite flavors include the chipotle chicken, the sautéed salmon, tres quesos (three cheeses), the battered shrimp, the vegetarian black bean and the braised duck with sweet corn salsa.

The menu covers a lot of ground beyond the wonderful tacos. Cold appetizers include delicious homemade quacamole, a nice jicama salad and a refreshing shrimp and scallop ceviche. Hot appetizer choices include the tasty duck nachos, sizzling cumin rubbed ribeye skewers and hearty mushroom quesadillas.

Diners who prefer an entrée course have many excellent choices. The marinated carne asada skirt steak is deliciously seasoned and served with pinot beans and basmati rice. Mole lovers will enjoy the boneless grilled chicken mole with poblano sauce, basmati rice and sautéed greens. Additional items include the large chipotle chicken burrito, grilled ahi tuna and fajitas (shrimp or steak).

If you still have room for dessert, you will delight in the unique guava cheesecake.

de cero is popular, attracting a wide-ranging clientele. There could be a brief wait, but it’s worth it. To avoid the largest crowds, try arriving early or later during the lunch or dinner periods.

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 http://gotbuzzatkurman.com/.

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