Pride Month, June, 2022 is about to shine out in Chicago and in a bunch of countries around the world. Lots of local restaurants, coffee shops and bars are offering specials – some teaming up with vendors – to entice you to join them for a few hours, a day, or a whole Pride Parade weekend or month. If you’re feeling safe going out to such places and are in the mood, here are a few to get started with:
Easy Bar teams up for The Trevor Project
EASY BAR
Wednesday, June 1 through Thursday, June 30. Easy Bar in Ukrainian Village will team up with Seattle Cider Company and Bell’s Brewery to support The Trevor Project for Pride Month. Throughout the month of June, a portion of proceeds from any Seattle Cider or Bell’s product purchased will be donated to The Trevor Project.
The Trevor Project is the leading and only accredited national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people under the age of 25.
Thursday, June 23 from 4 p.m. to close.Estelle’s in Wicker Park will host a Pride Party & Benefit for the Brave Space Alliance on Thursday, June 23 starting at 4pm. Snag swag like glow stick necklaces and bracelets along with Brooklyn Brewing The Stonewall Inn IPA drafts for $7 each. For every The Stonewall IPA Inn sold, $1 will be donated to the Brave Space Alliance. DJ Kinkshame will also spin jams from 12 a.m. to close.
Brave Space Alliance is the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ+ Center located on the South Side of Chicago that is dedicated to creating and providing affirming, culturally competent, for-us by-us resources, programming, and services for LGBTQ+ individuals on the South and West sides of the city.
2013 W North Ave. Chicago, IL 60647 | (773) 782-0450 | www.estelleschicago.com. Hours: Sunday – Friday: 4 p.m – 4 a.m. | Saturday: 4 p.m. – 5 a.m.
Matcha Cita PRIDE month waffles (Photo courtesy of Megan Osterhout)
MATCHA CITA
Wednesday, June 1 through Thursday, June 30. Matcha Cita in the West Loop will donate a portion of proceeds from every Rainbow Waffle sold for the month to the Broadway Youth Center. The Rainbow Waffle is $9.95 and features strawberries, banana, whipped cream and sprinkles.
Broadway Youth Center offers comprehensive services to youth, ages 12-24 including a safe space for young people experiencing homelessness. The mission of BYC is to make life healthier and happier for young people who are transgender, queer, lesbian, bisexual, gay, and especially young people who do not have stable housing.
1017 W Lake Chicago IL 60607 | (312) 785-9597 http://www.matchacitachi.com. Hours: Monday – Saturday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sunday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
THE GRAYSTONE TAVERN
Wednesday, June 1 through Thursday, June 30. $35 Rainbow Shot Flight for Center on Halsted. In honor of Pride Month, The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville will host a month-long fundraiser for the nearby Center on Halsted. For $35, guests can enjoy a Rainbow Shot Flight, solo or with friends, featuring six shots colored red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet. A portion of proceeds from all Rainbow Shot Flights lights sold in June will be donated to Center on Halsted, the Midwest’s most comprehensive community center dedicated to advancing community and securing the health and well-being of LGBTQ Chicagoans.
Wednesday, June 1 through Thursday, June 30. Rewired Pizza Cafe & Bar will offer a Pride Latte created by coffee bar manager Jordan Reinhardt. The colorful and caffeinated drink features a house made fruity pebbles syrup, steamed milk, espresso and “pixie dust” edible glitter. Available Wednesday, June 1 through Thursday, June 30, the price ranges from small ($5) to medium ($5.50) or large ($6). Additional Pride specials for the month will include rainbow colored Truffled Deviled Eggs for $12 and Montucky Cold Snacks Pride Beer for $4.50.
A portion of proceeds from every Pride Latte, Truffled Deviled Eggs and Montucky Cold Snacks Pride Beer sold during June will benefit StandUp for Kids. StandUp for Kids is a national non-profit organization dedicated to ending the cycle of youth homelessness in local communities.
Monday, June 20 at 7 p.m. Additionally, Stewpendous Productions will host a special trivia night featuring a Celebration of Queer Pop Culture. Topics will include pop divas who provide the soundtrack of our lives, Broadway musicals honoring the drag kings and queens that have conftributed to making the art form, legendary queer trailblazers on televsion and more. Reservations are recommended by visiting https://rewiredcafe.com/monday-trivia-night/.
Navy Pier will kick off summer thisMemorial Day weekend when its widely anticipated free summer fireworks light up the sky at 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 28. But if you’ve got the time, plan to eat and enjoy some of the Pier’s other entertainments beforehand.
Fireworksat Navy Pier return at 9 p.m. every Wednesday and 10 p.m. every Saturday, through Labor Day. Navy Pier’s signature displays are synchronized to dramatic and popular music, and unique soundtracks for special occasions. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to find a great viewing spot along the Pier.
One of the best vantage points for viewing the fireworks is the Navy Pier Beer Garden, the city’s go-to destination for free, outdoor music all summer long, under the banner Live on the Lake. Opening night performances include John Kimler & Friends, Mike & Joe, and New Orleans funk and jazz artist Shamar Allen. Live on the Lake continues Sunday, May 29, with Fareed Haque, DJ Papa G, and Kofi & the New Roots, and on Monday, May 30, with Libido Funk Circus and Vintage Vinyl.
The Beer Garden is the local home of farm-to-foam beers from Tangled Roots Brewery, which creates a full range of light lagers and ales to dark, experimental brews made with hops grown on their farm right here in Illinois.
Visitors can also enjoy a mouthwatering experience at Ciccio (pronounced Chee-cho) officially opening from 11:00 a.m to.8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 26. Owner Mario Ferraro is a second-generation Chicagoland restaurateur. His new venture combines traditional Italian cuisine with Chicagoland favorites, like Ciccio’s star menu item, the “Italian Beef” Sandwich. Ciccio’s boasts a 100 percent scratch kitchen giving guests quality in every bite.
New this year, Jake’s on the Lake brings one of Chicago’s favorite restaurants to Navy Pier. Jake Melnick’s Corner Tap (see our previous enthusiastic review) is celebrating its 20th year in business this July, as the city’s hottest destination for hot wings. Jake’s famous wings—once named best in the country by NBC’s Today show—come in heat levels ranging from Spicy Buffalo wings to Firecracker Wings to XXX Wings—packed with habanero, ghost pepper and scorpion pepper. To view the full menu, click here.
Pixar Putt, open May 28 through Aug. 20, lays out a course of 18 fun and interactive holes of mini golf at Polk Bros Park, each based on characters from such beloved Pixar classics as “Toy Story,” “The Incredibles,” “Monsters Inc.,” “Finding Nemo,” “Coco,” “A Bug’s Life,” “Wall-E,” and “Inside Out.”
Pixar Putt, co-presented by Rockefeller Productions and TEG Life Like Touring, will be open from noon to 10 p.m. Mondays-Fridays (with last entry at 8:30 p.m.) and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays (last entry 8:30 p.m.). Pixar Putt is also available to Private Groups and Corporate Groups. Get your tickets at www.pixarputt.com/chicago.
See Chicago Dance kicks off the 10th annual Chicago Dance Month with a free two-hour performance that samples styles from ballet to fire acts with six different Chicago companies sharing the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park. The schedule features Nawja Dance Corps, 3 p.m.; Chicago Tap Theater, 3:20 p.m.; Raks Inferno, 3:45 p.m.; Movement Revolution Dance Crew, 3:55 p.m.; Visceral Dance Chicago, 4:05 p.m.; and Last Dance, 4:20 p.m. Live dance performances will return to Navy Pier at 3 p.m. every Saturday throughout summer at the Wave Wall.
Wave Wall Wax, a series featuring Chicago’s most recognized DJs spinning house and dance music, also begins May 28, with Steve “Miggedy” Maestro at 5 to 7 p.m. The series continues at 5 p.m. every Saturday through Sept. 3 at the Wave Wall Platform.
All events subject to change or cancellation. To view the full Navy Pier events calendar, click here.
Well, maybe not EVERY winter day. But it’s fun to know you have options when it comes to dining out even during this still-taking-precautions-for-COVID winter in our beloved city. So take a stroll through this listing – a place or two you may be hearing about for the first time – and see what strikes your fancy.
Year-round dining on Graystone’s patio (photo credit: Sam Stone)
THE GRAYSTONE TAVERN New All-Season Patio. After 5 years in Wrigleyville, The Graystone Tavern, 3441 N Sheffield Ave, has winterized and enclosed their spacious back patio in preparation for the cold months ahead. In accordance with CDC and City of Chicago guidelines, the space can seat 20 to 30 guests. Patrons will continue to enjoy full food and drink menus “al fresco” throughout the winter season on the new weatherproofed patio. The space features string lights overhead, seven TVs, and customers can also enjoy games like bags, giant Jenga and giant Connect 4.
Fans of The Bachelorette can watch the dramatic Season 16 on the patio at Graystone with viewing parties every Tuesday at 7 p.m. Guests will be invited to play themed bingo for prizes. The episodes will be shown with audio, and themed drink specials will be available.
Year-Round Hangs at OGs. Old Grounds Social, Lincoln Park’s barbeque-centric sports bar, 950 W. Wrightwood Ave, invites guests to hang year-round on their convertible patio that is equipped with a four-season retractable roof. Featuring 20+ flat screen TVs, the newly updated patio offers lounge-style seating, a great option for small groups and sports fans. For patio reservations, visit https://www.ogschicago.com/reservations.
The liveliest patio in Chicago, Old Grounds Social keeps guests entertained with weekly events and specials like Drag Bingo every Thursday from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. ($5 entry, cash prize, RSVP: tyler@ogschicago.com), and a $25 Friday Happy Hour from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. which includes a $ burger, fries and bottomless wells and domestics.
THE RAMBLER Enclosed Outdoor Beer Garden. The Rambler in North Center, 4128 N Lincoln Ave, has weatherproofed its spacious outdoor beer garden to give diners an al fresco experience all year round. In accordance with CDC and City of Chicago guidelines, the beer garden will accommodate up to 30 guests withfull bar and food menus available.
The space is outfitted with a full bar, six TVs and a sound system perfect for catching Bears’ games. Fans of The Bachelorette can also watch Season 16 on the patio at The Rambler’s viewing parties every Tuesday at 7 p.m. Guests will be invited to play themed bingo for prizes. The episodes will be shown with audio, and themed drink specials will be available.
Cozy outdoor dining in Uvea’s greenhouses (courtesy of Uvae)
UVAE KITCHEN & WINE BAR BYO blanket, patio heaters and greenhouse dining. In an effort to help extend outdoor dining options this fall and winter season, Uvae in Andersonville has made several updates to their intimate sidewalk patio at 5553 N Clark St. Cold weather plans include new patio heaters and a BYO blanket promo where every guest who brings their own blanket for patio dining will receive a complimentary glass of prosecco.
Uvae offers three new greenhouses available for dining that are equipped with heaters. Two of the greenhouses will be available for parties of two to four guests. The third greenhouse will have space for parties up to six. Space is limited and seatings will be at 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. with a 1.5 hour limit allowing for sanitizing in between guests.
To all the brave folks still out there working to keep us fed and safe at home, thank you. Your courage to continue serving in the face of this challenge is greatly appreciated and even life-saving for many. For those of us who really enjoy cooking, River Roast in River North and Carnivale in West Loop are offering home “grill-at-home” kits so you and your family can have some seriously good meat to crisp up. Spiaggia has put together curated groups of wines you can pick up on their own or get ’em along with some of the restaurant’s high-end Italian food specials.
Thanks, Rachael, for highlighting Italian Wines on National Wine Day 2020
Celebrate National Wine Day on Monday, May 25th with Spiaggia‘s sommelier Rachael Lowe, nominated for the 2020 James Beard Awards for “Outstanding Wine Program.” With summer on the horizon, Rachael can discuss her top wine picks for the season and tips to pairing wines with lighter, seasonal dishes. Spiaggia is also now offering Wine Selections on their pick-up menu on Tock. Rachael has curated a list of wines highlighting various Italian wine regions as well as New World favorites. Each selection comes with three bottles and is delightful paired along with your favorite Spiaggia meal or on their own.
Celebrate National Burger Day on Thursday, May 28th with a burger kit from River Roast. River Roast is offering a virtual “Grill At Home Shop” featuring a variety of meats, including burgers, ribs, steak and chicken and pork chops.Prices vary and all items can be purchased on Tock.
Until we can come in again, think Carnivale for wine and cocktails
Carnivale, 702 W. Fulton Market St., will offer meals, cocktail kits and complimentary Carnivale cotton candy with purchase for curbside pickup beginning Thursday, June 11 (changed from 6/4 due to temporary travel restrictions in downtown Chicago). Featuring several creative Latin inspired meals, Carnivale’s takeout menu includes options like Sabor y Carne, Carnivale en Fuego, which also comes as a DIY grill kit, and Paella de Carnivale. Guests may add a side of Guacamole or Ropa Vieja to any order for $12. Carnivale’s iconic craft libations are available with kits for the restaurant’s signature Margarita, Mojito and Cotton Candy Martini, which each come with an extra treat, for $45 plus tax. Orders must be called in (312) 850-5005, and will be available for pickup outside of Carnivale’s main entrance.
Empty inside – Photo by REY MELVIN CARAAN on Unsplash
Chicago is home to thousands of excellent restaurants, and although they’re all closed for dining in, you can still get some fabulous food from many of them. One hospitality group whose member restaurants consistently feature top-quality food is Lettuce Entertain You® Enterprises. We have had some of our favorite dishes at a number of these establishments. So we’re happy to offer you a listing of some of the delicious goodies you can get for your mom and your family this Mother’s Day 2020, despite the coronavirus lockdown. Delivery and/or pickup as indicated. Enjoy! And have a great Mother’s Day.
Aba WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 11:30 AM – 6:30 PM WHERE: 302 N Green Street, Chicago IL 60607 WHAT: Aba is offering a Mother’s Day package that includes Classic Hummus with Crudite & Housemade Bread, Village Salad, Beef Tenderloin Kebabs, Grilled Chicken Kebabs, Lemon Dill Basmati Rice and Double Chocolate Tarte. Looking to show Mom some extra love? We’ve teamed up with Kehoe Designs to offer two different flower arrangements for her special day! The Mother’s Day menu is $25.95 per person, plus tax. Flowers range from $45 – $65, plus tax. Orders must be placed by Thursday, May 7 at 5:00 PM. Order online for carryout or delivery. CONTACT:Order online from Aba
Antico Posto WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM WHERE: 118 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523 WHAT: Antico Posto is offering a Mother’s Day package that includes Housemade Bread & Giardiniera, House Salad, Shrimp Risotto and Zuppa Inglese for four.The cost is $70, plus tax. Orders must be placed by Saturday, May 9 at 4:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time. CONTACT:630-586-9200
Beatrix – Streeterville WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM WHERE: 671 N. St. Clair Street, Chicago, IL 60611 WHAT: Beatrix has teamed up with Flowers For Dreams to include a flower bouquet for Mom alongside a special brunch for four people. Mother’s Day Brunch & Bouquet Bundle for four includes Baked Apple French Toast, Scrambled Eggs (pro tip: top it with lobster!), Brown Sugar Bacon, Maple Chicken Sausage, Wild-Berry Parfaits, Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice and Intelligentsia Coffee. The cost is $110.95, plus tax. Looking for brunch for two? A Mother’s Day Brunch menu for two is available as well for $23.95 per person, plus tax. Orders must be placed by Saturday, May 9 at 2:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for pick-up only. CONTACT:312-642-0001 or order online from Beatrix
Big Bowl – Chicago & Lincolnshire WHEN: Sunday, May 10; Chicago: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Lincolnshire: 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM WHERE: Chicago: 60 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611 | Lincolnshire: 215 Parkway Drive, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 WHAT: Big Bowl will be open on Mother’s Day for carryout, curbside pick-up and delivery. Call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for delivery or carryout. CONTACT: Chicago: 312-951-1888 or order online from Big Bowl – Chicago | Lincolnshire: 847-808-8880 or order online from Big Bowl – Lincolnshire
Bub City – River North WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM WHERE: 435 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60654 WHAT: Add some Southern flare to this Mother’s Day with a Bub City Rib Dinner for four. Enjoy 2 full slabs of Charcoal-Roasted Baby Back Ribs, a side of Mac N’ Cheesy, Grilled Asparagus with a Lemon Aioli, Chopped Salad and Fresh Baked Bub City Cookies for just $59.95, plus tax. Bub City is also offering an 18-Hr. Natural Smoked Brisket Dinner or a Rib-and-Brisket Combo Dinner, plus extra add-ons for purchase like Bloody Mary Kits, Spring Dutch Tulip Bouquets and whole Peanut Butter & Key Lime Pies. Whole pie orders must be placed by Thursday, May 7 at 8:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call or order online for pick-up. CONTACT: 312-610-4200 or order from Bub City
Brasserie Jo WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM WHERE: Pick-up at Osteria Via Stato, 620 N State Street WHAT: Celebrate Mother’s Day with a classic dish from Brasserie Jo, the Shrimp Bag with Lobster Cognac Sauce. The family-style meal for two or four, includes Carrots a la Jo, Green Asparagus with white pearls and chives, the famous Shrimp Bag, Chocolate Mousse and a French baguette. The price is $23.95 per person, plus tax. Available for carryout only, call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for pick-up only. CONTACT: 773-433-5330 or order online from Brasserie Jo
WHEN: Sunday, May 10; from 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM (closed 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
WHERE: 2024 N. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60614
WHAT: Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! is offering a brunch package from 10:00 AM – 2:45 PM which includes Citrus French Toast with goat cheese butter and Patatas Bravas with sun-dried tomato aioli. Or, opt for Mother’s Day Dinner from 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM, packed with Brussels Sprouts Salad, Chicken & Vegetable Paella and more. Add on wine, sparkling cava, or Bloody Mary and cocktail kits for additional charges. Both packages are available for $40, plus tax for two or $80, plus tax for four people. Call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for delivery or carryout.
Crab Cellar WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM WHERE: 1962 N Halsted Street, Chicago IL WHAT: Crab Cellar meal packages will be available for Mother’s Day! Order for two people for $109, plus tax or for four people for $199, plus tax. The meal packages will be available for delivery or carryout and include Alaskan King Crab Legs, Prime Burgers, Hush Puppies, Mac & Cheese, Roasted Broccoli, Boardwalk Fries, Coleslaw and Coconut Cake. You can also add on a bottle of wine or a cocktail kit for additional charges. Call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for delivery or carryout. CONTACT:773-248-1737 or order online from Crab Cellar for carryout, order online from Crab Cellar for delivery
Di Pescara WHEN: Saturday, May 9 – Sunday, May 10; 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM WHERE: 2124 Northbrook Ct, Northbrook, IL WHAT: Di Pescara’s Mother’s Day special includes Double-Dip Shrimp Cocktail with remoulade and cocktail sauce, Tomato Bruschetta with buffalo mozzarella, Braised Prime Beef Short Rib, Triple Chocolate Chip Cookies, fresh Ciabatta Bread and more. The food is prepared cold and will include heating instructions. The cost is $30, plus tax per person, two person minimum per order. You can add on a bottle of wine or a Make-At-Home Mimosa Kit for $10, plus tax. Orders must be placed by Wednesday, May 6 at 7:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time. CONTACT: 847-498-4321
WHAT: il Porcellino’s Mother’s Day menu serves four and includes Garlic Bread, Italian Salad, Chicken Vesuvio, Rigatoni alla Vodka and Double Chocolate Cake. Round out the special day with an optional flower bouquet and Negroni or Spritz Kits for additional charges. This Mother’s Day package is $79.95, plus tax (gratuity not included). Orders must be placed by Friday, May 8. Call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for carryout or order online for delivery or carryout.
WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM WHERE: 60 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 WHAT: Joe’s Seafood – Chicago will be offering a Classic Shellfish Dinner for four for $199.95, plus tax. The meal package includes all of your Joe’s favorites including Florida Stone Crab Claws, Alaskan King Crab Legs, Joe’s Chopped Salad, Jennie’s Mashed Potatoes, Joe’s Grilled Tomatoes and Key Lime Pie. Orders must be placed by Friday, May 8 at 5:00 PM. Order online for carryout only. CONTACT: Order online from Joe’s Seafood – Chicago
L. Woods WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM WHERE: 7110 Lincoln Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712 WHAT: L. Woods is offering brunch for four for Mother’s Day! Enjoy brunch with Strawberry & Banana French Toast for $30, plus tax or Prime Rib Hash with Scrambled Eggs for $50, plus tax. Make it a boozy brunch by adding a Mimosa Kit for $30, plus tax or Bloody Mary Kit for $60, plus tax. BBQ favorites will also be available a la carte for lunch and dinner. Orders must be placed by Friday, May 8 at 5:00 PM. Brunch must be picked up by Sunday, May 10 between 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, lunch and dinner must be picked up between 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time. CONTACT:847-677-3350
WHERE: 2300 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago IL 60614 WHAT: Mon Ami Gabi – Chicago is offering a three-course prix-fixe meal to-go with Gabi French favorites like Roast Salmon, Petite Filets, Chocolate Mousse and more. For the little frites, à la carte options from the kids’ menu are also offered. Add on wines a la carte or a Bloody Mary or Mimosa Kit that serves 4. The Mother’s Day prix fixe menu is available for just $40 (feeds two) or $80 (feeds four), plus tax and gratuity. CONTACT: 773-348-8886,pre-order online for pickup from Mon Ami Gabi – Chicagoor order online for delivery from Mon Ami Gabi
Naoki Sushi WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM WHERE: 5 W. Ontario, Chicago IL WHAT: Celebrate Mom with a sushi dinner by Chef Naoki. The meal for four people and includes Miso Soup, Shrimp Tempura Maki, Spicy Tuna Maki, Salmon Avocado Maki , Salmon Nigiri and Tuna Nigiri. The cost is $89, plus tax. Order online for delivery or carryout.
Osteria Via Stato WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM WHERE: 620 N State Street, Chicago IL 60654 WHAT: Osteria Via Stato is offering brunch and dinner packages for Mother’s Day! Enjoy Smoked Salmon, Bagels & Accompaniments, Vegetable Frittata, Ciabatta French Toast with Macerated Strawberries, Maple Syrup, Applewood Smoked Bacon and Calabrian Potatoes. The brunch cost is $25.95 per person, plus tax. Add a fresh fruit puree Bellini kit in Peach, Blood Orange, Blueberry or Raspberry for $19.95, plus tax. The dinner menu includes Creekstone Farm Beef Tenderloin, Spring Vegetable Panzanella, Ricotta Cavatelli with Wild Mushrooms, Asparagus with Grana and Tiramisu. The dinner cost is $43.95 per person, plus tax. Order by Friday, May 8 at 6:00 PM. The brunch menu is available for pick-up on Saturday, May 9 between 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM and Sunday, May 10 between 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, the dinner menu is available for pick-up between 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call or email to place an order and arrange a time for pick-up or order online for pick-up only. CONTACT: 773-433-5330 or order online from Osteria Via Stato
Quality Crab & Oyster Bah WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM WHERE: 1962 N Halsted Street, Chicago IL WHAT: Quality Crab & Oyster Bah is offering a brunch package for $99, plus tax for four. The package includes Bagels & Smoked Salmon, Fruit Salad, Bacon & Sausage and more with the option to customize your add-ons with Steamed King Crab, Fried Chicken, Shrimp Cocktail and more for additional charges. Orders must be placed by Friday, May 8 at 12:00 PM and picked up by Sunday, May 10 between 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Quality Crab & Oyster Bah’s a la carte menu will be available from 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM. View Quality Crab & Oyster Bah’s a la carte menu. Call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for delivery or carryout. CONTACT:773-248-3000 or order online from Quality Crab & Oyster Bah
RPM Italian WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM WHERE: 52 W. Illinois, Chicago, IL 60654 WHAT: Celebrate Mother’s Day with a shared RPM Italian meal for four! Enjoy Truffled Garlic Bread, Heirloom Tomato Salad, RPM Lasagna with Bolognese & Herbed Ricotta, Grilled Asparagus and Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies for dessert. Add on an optional Bellini Kit and bouquet of spring Dutch tulips to round out the special day. The price is $80, plus tax. Order by Friday, May 8 at 12:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for pick-up only. CONTACT: 312-222-1888 or order online from RPM Italian – Chicago
WHAT: Treat Mom to a special RPM Steak Mother’s Day Menu for four. The package includes Parker House Rolls, Kale Salad, Shrimp Cocktail, Chateaubriand, Local Spring Asparagus and Housemade Cookies. Add on an optional RPM Peanut Butter Pie, bouquet of spring Dutch tulips or beverage pairing to round out the special day. The Mother’s Day Dinner package is $125, plus tax (gratuity not included). Order by Friday, May 8 at 12:00 PM. Available for carryout only, call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for pick-up only.
Shaw’s Crab House – Chicago & Schaumburg WHEN: Sunday May 10; Chicago: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Schaumburg: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM WHERE: Chicago: 21 E. Hubbard St. Chicago, IL 60611 | Schaumburg: 1900 East Higgins Road, Schaumburg IL 60173 WHAT: Shaw’s Chicago & Schaumburg are offering Mother’s Day brunch and dinner packages for $99 each, plus tax for four people. The brunch includes Cinnamon Roll French Toast, Bagels & Lox, Fruit Salad and more while the dinner package features favorites like Shaw’s Clam Chowder, Caesar Salad and Mini Raspberry Pie. Both packages allow for add-on proteins such as Alaskan King Crab Legs and Roasted Tenderloin, as well as cocktail kits and bottles of wine for additional charges. Orders must be placed by Friday, May 8 at 12:00 PM. Orders must be picked up by Sunday, May 10 for brunch between 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM and for dinner between 12:30 PM – 7:30 PM. Shaw’s Chicago’s a la carte dinner menu will be available in addition to the packages from 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM. View Shaw’s Chicago’s a la carte menu. Call the restaurant of your choice to place an order and arrange a time for pick-up or order online for delivery or carryout. CONTACT:312-527-2722 or order online from Shaw’s Chicago | jkoval@leye.com or order online from Shaw’s Schaumburg
Saranello’s WHEN: Sunday, May 10; 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM WHERE: 601 N Milwaukee Ave, Wheeling, IL WHAT: Saranello’s is offering family-style Mother’s Day Brunch & Dinner packages for four people that are $100, plus tax. The brunch includes citrus-cured Atlantic Salmon, Classic Eggs Benedict, Canadian Bacon, Smoked Vermont turkey with cranberry relish, 1.5 lbs of Roast Sirloin Prime Beef with horseradish cream and more. You can add a Make-At-Home Mimosa Kit for $10, plus tax. The dinner includes Parmesan & Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms, Large Gulf Shrimp with cocktail sauce, 1 lbs of pistachio-crusted Lake Superior Whitefish, Baked Mac and Cheese with aged Tillamook cheddar, a whole fresh baked Apple Pie and more. You can add on a bottle of wine for $25, plus tax. Orders must be placed by Saturday, May 9 at 12:00 PM and be picked up on Sunday, May 10 between 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM for brunch and between 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM for dinner. Order online for carryout only. CONTACT:847-777-6878 or order online from Saranello’s
Seaside’s WHEN: Sunday May 10; 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM WHERE: 1962 N Halsted Street, Chicago IL WHAT: Seaside’s a la carte and meal package for four for $64, plus tax for delivery and $59, plus tax for carryout on Mother’s Day! Seaside’s Meal Package includes 1/2 Fried Chicken, full slab of Baby Back Ribs, Mac & Cheese, Roasted Broccoli, B&B Pickles, Coleslaw, and Peppermint Ice-Cream. Call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or order online for delivery or carryout. CONTACT:773-248-1749 or order online from Seaside’s
WHAT: Summer House Santa Monica and Stella Barra Pizzeria & Wine Bar – Chicago are offering six Mother’s Day brunch and dinner packages. From the Smoked Salmon Platter for Four to a Roasted Beef Tenderloin Dinner for Four. Add on bottles of rosé, red or white wine for an additional $20 each, plus tax. All carryout and delivery orders will receive a special 50% off gift card to The CryoBar to treat mom on a future visit. Brunch items will be sold on Sunday, May 10 from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, and dinner items will be sold all day. All orders must be placed by Thursday, May 7 at 4:00 PM. Call to place an order and arrange a pick-up time or pre-order online for pickup.
We always enjoy hearing about the interesting promotions our local hotels and restaurants come up with to entice us to get out of the house in our traditionally-the-worst-time-in-the-winter days and nights. We like some of these for starters: music-themed fun throughout, late Restaurant Week fun and honoring women entrepreneurs with tequila and tidbits.
Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park, 200 N. Columbus Dr., is turning its February environment into a paean to the joys of music. From cocktails at The Bar to special pricing for Spa services and dining options at Columbus Tap, the Sweet Sounds of Fairmont programming kicked off with a complimentary concert for guests featuring Jalen N’Gonda. Look for weekly Culinary Concertos and the Bar’s classic cocktails through March 29. This symphony for the senses extends to much-need R&R with mySpa treatments, guestroom packages, and meetings and events promotions. For more information, visit their website or call 312-565-8000.
Grant Park Bistro Restaurant Week
Grant Park Bistro, 800 S. Michigan, part of the LM Restaurant Group, you can still get in on Restaurant Week through Sunday February 9. For $36++. You choose from starters like Wild Mushroom Soup brioche, thyme oil; or Fennel Ceviche grapefruit, espelette, cilantro, noisette; or Burnt Endive red wine poached pear, blue cheese, pistachio, red wine vinaigrette. Moving on from there, entrees included in the deal range from Duck Breast, Scallops, Butternut Squash or Celeriac Steak. Then dessert options Cinnamon Apple Tart or Brownie fudge brownie, with praline cremeux and caramel mousse. Or check out their very cool daily specials – like BYOB with your dinner on Saturday nights (no corkage fee)!
VU Rooftop steak
VU Rooftop bar, 133 E. Cermak Rd., invites you on Sunday March 3, 11zm to 2pm, to celebrate international women’s day with an exclusive boozy brunch to honor women entrepreneurs with an all-inclusive brunch and special guest, former State Senator, Toi Hutchinson. With exquisite dishes and liquor forward cocktails, the event is co-hosted by Fino Tequila, the Connection for Abused Women and Children (CAWC), and Toi Hutchinson, the former Illinois State Senator and the current senior advisor to the governor for cannabis control. A portion of the proceeds from select Fino Tequila cocktails will go to benefit the CAWC. For $35 get all you can eat from VU’s signature brunch men – items like Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Belgian Waggle; Chilaquiles Casserole with eggs, beans, roasted corn, and Chihuahua cheese; a Vegetable Frittata and more. The event will feature pop-ups that showcase women-focused brands, including makeup by Dior and more.
No matter what the season, Chicago restaurants are always coming up with interesting offers that tempt us to partake. Now’s a good time to share the news in case you want to schedule some fun occasions with friends or family. Herewith, descriptions of a new kid-friendly venue – complete with beer and wine – in our wonderful in-city zoo, a delicious selection of goodies during happy hour at Eddie V’s, and a fascinating cocktail program at all 70 locations of the Fairmont Hotel chain.
Bird’s Eye Bar & Grille offers Levy foods – and catering, too
Lincoln Park Zoo has reimagined and rebranded the expansive rooftop outdoor space above the gift shop. Now called the Bird’s Eye Bar & Grille, the shaded, breezy area offers comfortable chairs and tables for a restful break from the rigors of navigating the zoo. The new spot features Levy-provided foods like sandwiches, salads and snacks and a select few options of wine and beer. Best of all for parents, there are table games like foosball and air hockey and plenty of room for kids to play together. The gift shop with the restaurant on top – oh, and by the way, there is a ramp in the rear for non-stair-climbing visitors – isn’t far from the main zoo entrance. Another good reason to visit our wonderful last-of-the-free-zoos-in-the-country treasure.
Eddie V Hours – Spicy marg arita and tacos
Eddie V’s, 521 N. Rush St. offers happy Eddie’s Hours with an impressive array of options, including 13 teasers and appetizers and four masterfully prepared oyster dishes served on the half-shell ($7-$8). Think:East Coast Oysters ($2/oyster), Asian Fusion Oysters – two half-shells ($7), Mini Filet Sandwiches with blue cheese and onion jam ($9), Salt and Pepper Shrimp with spicy soy ginger vegetables ($9). Pair with one of five cocktails, including the Spicy Margarita and Bulleit Sour, or one of four wines poured by the glass for $8. Consider trying some of their seafood flown in from pristine waters around the world or their premium hand-carved steaks. And check the website for hours for daily duets and trios playing soothing jazz performances.
Fairmont Hotel new cocktails
Fairmont Hotel, 200 N. Columbus Drive, is the Chicago star in the Fairmont Hotel global galaxy of hotels and resorts – over 70 properties, including The Savoy in London, The Plaza in New York, as well as properties in Shanghai, Barcelona, Vancouver, Bali, Montreal, among others. The new cocktail menu, Classics Perfected – available at every single property in the world – pays homage to some of the most well-known cocktails in history – and exciting new ones:
Material Girl: Inspired by the Cosmo, this gin-based version features Botanist Gin and St-Germain, lemon and apple juice.
Orange Trip: Inspired by the Whiskey Sour this one features Woodford Reserve bourbon, orange juice, bitters and lemon.
Chai Tai: Pulling inspiration from the Mai Tai, this one’s made with Botanist Gin along with Mount Gay Black Barrel rum, pineapple juice, lime and a hint of chai.
Soul Reviver: Honoring the classic Corpse Reviver, this mix is Botanist gin, Casamigos Blanco, Cointreau and Lillet Blanc, blackberries, lemon and a touch of absinthe.
Every nice day in summer is another great excuse to indulge yourself – after you work, do your chores and exercise of course, right? And Chicago is a place ideally suited to such indulgences. Everywhere you turn, another opportunity presents itself to help you get creative with your enjoyment. Here are just a few restaurant ideas and home cooking/drinking products to get you rolling:
1. River Roast is getting ready to celebrate summer with their weekday happy hour Oysters & Rosé special. Every weekday from 3 to 5 pm enjoy a dozen oysters and bottle of Rose wine for $35. Sit at the bar or along the river soaking in the sun all while enjoying a refreshing summer combo that’s irresistible. AND on National Donut Day, Friday, June 7th, get a complimentary skewer of three donut holes with the purchase of coffee from Reid Bar. What’s a better way to kick off the morning than with free donuts??
Round Barn sangria makes a great aperitif – or even dessert!
2. Round Barn Winery, located in the hills of Southwestern Michigan, complete with tasting room, is making canned wine products – like their most popular one, Sangria. A fizzy, lightly sweet version of the drink beloved by so many in Spain, this Sangria is a nice combination of fruit, dry wine and sweetness. Be aware of the calories, though. A single 12-ounce can packs a whopping 290 calories, so feel free to consider this dessert, even though it doesn’t taste overly sweet at all. A no-fuss way to chill your cocktail (or dessert) and bring it to the picnic or other outdoor celebration.
3. Pereg Natural Foods makes classic spice blends that are perfect to rub on your meat, poultry and even vegetables. They’re made from fresh, natural, 100% pure spices, and bring quality to your table that’s backed by more than 100 years of experience. Herewith a few examples:
Pereg’s Koobah starts with baharat, a ubiquitous Israeli and Mediterranean staple, and then adds warm layers of cinnamon, allspice, rose, nutmeg, and cardamom for a complex finish.
It wouldn’t be shish kabab without Kabab seasoning. Douse cubes of chicken, beef, or lamb liberally with Pereg’s hearty mash-up (paprika, black pepper, coriander, garlic, and cumin) and thread on skewers with vegetables of your choice.
Another food truck favorite, Shawarma is easy to make with Pereg’s perfect mixture of cumin, coriander, allspice, garlic, paprika, turmeric, and salt rubbed onto thin slices of chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey. Marinate a zipper top bag with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and red onion, and grill.
Traditional recipes for Moroccan Ras el Hanout seasoning call for up to 100 ingredients! You could make your own, but why not try Pereg’s intriguing blend of cinnamon, coriander, nutmeg, allspice, cumin, ginger, turmeric, cardamom, to enhance anything from burgers to brisket. A key component of soups, stews, and tagines, it can also be used a table-top condiment. Sprinkle it on vegetable dishes or even over popcorn for a punch of flavor.
Come on in for Carnivale cocktails
4. Carnivale Restaurant, 702 W. Fulton St. Things are heating up outside AND inside at Carnivale, where talented chefs and mixologists have created a new Lounge menu that features a Charcuterie Tabla, Sliders, Carnivale Mai-Tai, Jackie’s Daiquiri, and much more! Lounge open: Monday – Thursday from 4-10, Friday 4-11, Saturday 5-11, Sunday 5-9. *Every Weekday, enjoy Happy Hour from 4-6:30pm.
5. Cindy’s Rooftop, 12 S. Michigan Ave. Pride in Our Industry: An Afternoon of Drink & Discussion, on Sunday, June 23, from 11:30am to 1pm at The Tank on the building’s first floor. Chicago’s community of strong LGBTQ+ voices helps mold the city’s bar, restaurant, and events scene in innovative and progressive ways. Join us to hear from leading individuals in hospitality on how to create greater representation, produce intentionally progressive menus, and offer safe spaces for all guests to feel welcome. Try one of June’s featured cocktails: Fire Island Sunset – $16, made with Plantation 3-Star rum, Aperol, Manzanila sherry, lemon and love, and garnished with a rainbow umbrella. Best paired with the summer sunset over the terrace view. Queen of Hearts – $16, made with Plantation Xaymaca rum, Rhine Hall oak-aged plum brandy, Campari, and Cocchi di Torino. Perfect to celebrate Negroni Week (Monday 6/24 – Sunday 6/30), when a portion of proceeds is donated directly to the Greater Chicago Food Depository,
Blue Door Farm Stand, 2010 N. Halsted St., has red, white and blue pancakes for Memorial Day weekend. All day May 25 through 27, enjoy some red velvet pancakes with white yogurt sauce and blue blueberries.Num!!
Music Bar Bingo at Jake’s, Rush & Superior. For those who like the idea of games at the bar but hate the idea of thinking too much, come hang out and drink with your friends for Music Bingo – and win prizes! The game is almost exactly the same as regular Bingo, except we’ll play clips of popular songs rather than reading off letters and numbers. The music ranges from the 50’s to today’s top hits including fun themed rounds like 80’s rock, 90’s hits, and more! Music Bingo is free but pays out in real prices every single time. Upcoming Bar Bingo Dates June 11, 25 (partnering with 21st Amendment)
Torchio Pasta Bar, 738 N. Wells St. in River North, is now open serving authentic Italian-inspired cuisine. Chef/Owner Bill Varley says Torchio means “press” in Italian, and relates to both the vintage hand-crank pasta press and the torch-base pasta shape from Abruzzo. He and wife, Janice, traveled the country and studied with Nonnas from Venice to Palermo. Dinner menu examples: Baked Semolina Gnocchi, Bucatini Puttanesca with anchovies, capers, Gaeta olives, Spring Vegetable Pappardelle in a lemon basil butter sauce, Gemelli and Pesto with string beans and sautéed potatoes) and more. Dinner served 5-9pm T – Th and 5-10pm F and Sat – prices $9 to $32. Lunch service starts Friday, June 7.
Well, we’re getting our first tastes of spring out there – the beginning of the best season for fun in this great city full of patios and decks and rooftop venues. But whether you’re inside or out, it’s a great time to celebrate the return of this joyous season – however brief it may be. So here are a few party and celebration ideas to get you started.
Estelle’s, 2013 W. North Ave. in Wicker Park, is hosting a Pre-Earth Day Fundraiser on Friday, April 19 starting at 5pm. Enjoy drink specials and a raffle with $1 from all drinks sold being donated to the Gardeneers, the only Chicago-based nonprofit providing school garden programs that give communities equal access to healthy food and food education. Try Estelle’s special $10 themed cocktail, The Green Thumb and munch on “green” menu items like Fried Pickles Spears ($7) and Southern Style Green Beans ($6.50), both served with chipotle ranch, while you play at the Earth Day DIY seed activity table from 6 to 9pm (while supplies last).
Hubbard Inn, 110 W. Hubbard. Happy hour every Monday – Friday from 4 to 7pm. If you’ve got a yen to relive the 60s, come bask in the bar’s “Mad Men”-themed happy hour. Watch 1960’s movies like James Bond, The Graduate, Sound of Music, West Side Story and The Good The Bad and the Ugly. Or sing along with 60s music favorites like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, The Beach Boys and Bob Dylan. Ad agency employees (proof of employment, please) enjoy 15% off their total bill. Other specials include:
$1 oysters on-the-half-shell or shucked clams
$2 shrimp cocktail, scallop crudo, or king crab legs
$3 oyster shooter
$5 Manhattans and Martinis
Jake Melnick makes craveable stuff
Jake Melnick’s, 41 E. Superior, is sporting Music Bar Bingo. Instead of reading off letters and numbers, listen to clips of popular songs. The music ranges from the50’s to today’s top hits including fun themed rounds like 80’s rock, 90’s hits, and more. Music Bingo is free but pays out in real prizes every time. Jake’s partners with several beer companies for samples and awesome prices for upcoming Bar Bingo dates: April 9 & 23 (partnering with Half Acre); May 14, 28 (partnering with Lagunitas); June 11, 25 (partnering with 21st Amendment). Try these April specials while you’re playing or just enjoy: the Buffalo Chicken ($16.95); the Fiesta Wings ($13.95); Sriracha Chicken Mac ($12.95).
Kizuki, 1457 N. Halsted and 1482 N. Milwaukee, welcomes patrons on Monday, April 15 with a Tax Day special on all-you-can-eat unlimited refills of noodles added to any ramen order. Choose noodle type Chuka, Tonk, Tsukemen, Shirataki or Kale. Happy Hour from 5 to 7pm. A few Tax Day specials include: – $1 beers, one per person, with a signature ramen purchase (ask your server for specifics);- $3 Sake Bomb, $5 House sake; $5 House red/white wine; $7 Daily special sangria, $7 Momotoro, and several food specials.
Remedy Bar, 1910 N. Milwaukee, supports Earth Day on Monday, April 22, with an $8 “Sprouts Honor” gin cocktail. Bring friends, sip and watch episodes of Planet Earth on TV throughout the evening. A portion of proceeds from each cocktail will be donated to help kids become better students using project-based learning for STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) subjects via Project SYNCERE.
Wings galore! Throw calorie caution to the winds and come sample from dozens of wing experts at the 20th annual Chicago’s Best WingFest on Saturday, April 13, 2019 from 12 to 4pm. Watch Chicago Police Dept and Chicago Fire Dept contestants compete to eat the most. Credit Union 1 Arena (formerly known as UIC Pavilion at 525 S. Racine Ave.). After party! Elliot Bambrough is hosting it for $50 a person at 551 Live (551 N. Ogden Ave.), a new live music venue featuring Live Band Karaoke from 5 to 8 p.m. with $4 drink specials and a 551 Live swag giveaway. VIP tix also available. Visit https://wingfest.net.
