Media Digest - Special Holiday Addendum for the week of December 12, 2007

The Reader's Holiday Gift Guide - Foodies...the editors at The Reader have compiled a list of some of the best locally oriented food gifts available this holiday season, including LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott's BBQ Rub, which is available at The Spice House locations throughout Chicagoland and Milwaukee.
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Media Digest for the week of December 19, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Tradition with a twist...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor explores the culinary delights of the Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes, and the Italian-American traditions behind it.

Dreaming of a white Christmas...Bill Daley reminds us that white burgundies are not only terrific but have a serious presence that makes them perfect for special holiday dining. Can you say Montrachet? I knew that you could

Baker makes his dream come true...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor visits with Michael Mikusch, whose Austrian Bakery & Deli in Lincoln Park offers several treats that are virtually synonymous with the holiday season.

Oregon vineyard takes top honors at cider competition...Robin Mather Jenkins recaps the 3rd annual Great Lakes Olde World Syder competition, which took place recently in Grand Rapids, MI.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

The Sun-Times has not updated their Food section this week (perhaps because of the upcoming holiday). I'll try to keep an eye on it and update here as I can.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Power Play...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant takes a curmudgeonly, yet favorable, look at Powerhouse.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of December 19, 2007

From the December 20 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Books for Cooks...LTH'er Mike Sula weighs in with his take on the "season’s best tomes on food and drink."

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of 23 restaurants that are convenient to State Street and The Magnificent Mile, with contributions again from Sula, as well as fellow LTHers David Hammond and Kristina Meyer.

The Whole Hog Project: So long, Cong and Cherry, part one...in the continuation of The Whole Hog Project series, Mr. Sula outdoes himself with an eloquent missive in which he describes the bittersweet occasion of the 'harvesting' of 2 hogs from the mulefoot herd which he has been covering for the past several months.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

From the December 13 edition:
Hello, my name is _____...Heather Shouse briefly profiles 7 chefs who are likely to make an impact on Chicago's dining scene in 2008.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby, along with Sarah Desprat, report the happy news that chef Grant Achatz's cancer has gone into remission.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Oranges and Christmas go together like red and green...food editor Deborah Pankey explains why -- aside from seasonality -- oranges are synonymous with Christmas for her.

Visual aspect a key ingredient in chef's approach...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews John Ayaleanos, executive chef of Birch River Grill in Arlington Heights.
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Media Digest for the week of December 26, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Yum X 10...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix presents the Tribune's Top 10 Recipes of 2007, as chosen by the crew at Good Eating.

A vintage year...Bill Daley reviews some of his top wine picks from 2007.

Junk-free, nutrient-rich and green...nutrition expert Janet Helm makes her predictions for the Top 10 food trends of 2008, and foresees a turn towards the healthy side.

Fresh finds: Red cabbage...Test Kitchen director Donna Pierce files this useful guide.

Chicken takes a romantic turn...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan lays out 11 steps for producing "airline breast" of chicken at home.

Winter farmers markets continue...Bill Daley lays out an expectedly brief but useful list.

Samuel Adams Old Fezziwig Ale...Jerrald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

From the December 25 edition:
LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott is interviewed in the Chat Room feature Five For Frying by Karl Klockars, in the December 25 edition.

Who wants seconds...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller, along with Sue Ontiveros, Sandy Thorn Clark and Misha Davenport review the Sun-Times' top 10 recipes from 2007.

A bit of the bubbly...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes provides solid guidance on how to pull together an enjoyable and relatively stress-free New Year's Eve party, even with a late start in planning.

Mama Mia!...Leah A. Zeldes updates us on Minelli Meat & Deli Stores' matriarch, Josephine Minelli who, in spite of being hospitalized earlier this month, is still going strong.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Citizen Bar, Adobo Grill, Plan B Bar + Kitchen and Gabriel's Restaurant.

Born of thrift, Swedish potato sausage is tasty...Lisa Donovan reports on traditional Swedish holiday treat, which was born out of frugal necessity, and endures because of its deliciousness.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of December 26, 2007

From the December 27 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

What's New...LTHer Mike Sula visits Powerhouse in the west Loop, with which he wasn't completely thrilled. Martha Bayne recaps a mixed experience at Demera in Uptown. Sula comes back again with a recap of Korean Soulfood Cafe, which doesn't entirely live up to its potential.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of 20 more relatively new places in town. In addition to the aforementioned Mr. Sula, contributions to this list of reviews are also made by fellow LTH'er David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Let the lists begin!

100 best things we ate and drank this year (in no particular order)...Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin regurgitate (sorry about that) their 100 favorite tastes of 2007.

Top nosh: Hot Pockets...in this week's installment, Lisa Shames highlights Lito's Empanadas in Lincoln Park.

Three-way...David Tamarkin reports on 3 distinctive doughnut preparations from 3 local chefs.

Mixed match...this week, Paul Johnston, beverage director at The Bluebird, fills in the blanks.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse praises the unconventional Festivus from brewmaster Jonathan Cutler of Piece in Wicker Park.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chicago catering duo shows you how to do New Year's Eve right...food editor Deborah Pankey checks in with local caterers and Food Network stars, the Hearty Boys, to get some tips for New Year's Eve entertaining.

Diners' feedback feeds his cooking creativity...Lisa Ackleson profiles Jason Stoffels, owner of Enticing Cuisine in Batavia.
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Media Digest for the week of January 2, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

In the aisles...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix explains that the weekly Fresh Finds feature has been jettisoned in favor of the new, bi-weekly In The Aisles. While still including produce, ITA will expand its scope to also include all sorts of distinctive offerings, from prepared meats to specialty sauces. This week's installment covers goat butter, pomegranate molasses and pumpkin seed oil, to name just a few.

If you like this (Chardonnay) ... then try these (Viognier, chenin blanc and fiano di Avellino)...Bill Daley kicks off 2008 with a great suggestion on how to expand one's wine horizons.

The Spanish word on pasta...in this special to the Tribune, Janet Mendel profiles Fideos, thin, round Spanish noodles that are often cooked in their sauce.

Time to raid the spice pantry...Renee Enna reports that, not surprisingly, McCormick is doing their part to help consumers keep their spice supplies up to date.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Soup's on...with the bulk of winter straight ahead of us, LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes explains that many Asian soups are the ideal antidote for cold weather -- and that they're also relatively easy to make. Recipes are included and a useful list of pantry items for producing such soups is posted here.

Stirring up good fortune...Chuck Sudo reports that many cultures enjoy specific food traditions that are tied to the beginning of the new year.

At the chef's table...this new, monthly feature will showcase Chicago-area chefs offering recipes, insights and culinary information. In the inaugural installment, chef Graham Elliot Bowles of Avenues explains that 'lowly' root vegetables can be the foundation of some terrific dishes.

Heat up with a glass of warm beer...Lisa Donovan reports that even in the dead of winter, warm beer -- which some folks actually find satisfying -- is the exception, not the rule.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Vong's Thai Kitchen, De la Costa and 200 East Supper Club.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Booze King...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant visits with Peter Vestinos, head bartender at Sepia, who bested several notable, local bartenders in an Iron Chef-like competition, back in October of 2007.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of January 2, 2008

From the January 3 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Fancy Mixed Drinks, Alsatian Conviviality, and Raw Meatballs...Omnivorous LTH contributor Mike Sula reviews his favorite tastes of 2007.

Also provided are brief reviews of some of 2007's brightest bows, with contributions by Mr. Sula, along with fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott and David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Oeno files...David Tamarkin rates the 2006 Winner’s Tank “Velvet Sledgehammer,” produced in Langhorne Creek, Australia.

The hot seat...Shawn McClain of Spring, Green Zebra and Custom House straps in this week.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby, along with Sarah Desprat, confirm what G Wiv posted here last week -- that Tony Hu of Lao Sze Chuan has opened 2 new restaurants in Chinatown Square.

Powerhouse...Sarah Desprat provides a brief preview of the west Loop's Powerhouse, which is helmed by Trio and Alinea alum, chef John Peters.

Taste Test: To Have and to Hold...with wedding-planning season upon us, Brittney Blair, Beth Marino, and Jennifer Tanaka sample and assess 'finger food' from 6 of the Chicago area's top caterers.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

A closer look at our 2007 Cooks of the Year...Laura Bianchi recaps the Daily Herald's list for 2007.

Chef/owner's zest for cooking evident in every dish at Al's Cafe...Melissa Allen profiles and interviews Tony Jamin, chef and co-owner (along with wife Patricia) of Al's Café & Creamery in Elgin.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive list of the week's upcoming food and wine classes, sorted by day.
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Media Digest for the week of January 9, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Seasonal comfort...Robin Mather Jenkins defines stew and then provides several examples -- with recipes -- of this traditional, winter comfort food.

Boeuf californien?...in this installment of Uncorked (with video), Bill Daley explains that while a boeuf bourguignon must be made with Burgundy to be traditional, it can be every bit as delicious when made with California, or other wine. Recipes and tasting notes are included.

Fresh bread at (almost) a moment's notice...Robin Mather Jenkins files a favorable review of Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day: The Discovery that Revolutionizes Home Baking, by Jeff Hertzberg and Zoe Francois. A recipe adaptation is provided.

Hunting and capturing Louisiana's legacy...Kerry Luft intereviews chef John Folse about his newest book, the 10-pound, 871-page After the Hunt, which was released earlier this month. A recipe from the book is excerpted.

Freezer keeps stew ready for when you are...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce provides some useful tips for storing and re-preparing stews.

Celebrating the dishes that define a community...Robin Mather Jenkins takes favorable looks at 2 fund-raising cookbooks: Life is Delicious: A Collection of Recipes from the Hinsdale Junior Woman's Club and Peeling the Wild Onion: A Collection of Chicago Culinary Culture from the Junior League of Chicago.

Keep abreast with these tips...the Good Eating staff provide some pointers for handling and preparing chicken breasts.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Fit for the kitchen...with the holiday eating season behind us, Sandy Thorn Clark discovers that some local chefs have dedicated themselves to more balanced lifestyles, which include healthier eating and exercise.

News of the day...the Sun Times rolls out their Food Detective feature, which has reporter Lisa Donovan making daily food "discoveries" all through the month of January.

Legendary absinthe back on market...Chuck Sudo reports that the mythical libation is making a comeback, ever since a ban on it was lifted by the US government last summer.

Pistachios, cardamom set Pakistani treat apart...Lisa Donovan visits King Sweets on Devon Avenue.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Motel Bar, Cafe Matou, Va Pensiero, Whole Foods (S. Canal) and Sushisamba Rio.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

A Christmas Story...in deference to Ralphie Parker, LTH contributor Mike Nagrant posts about his Christmas experience at Mandarin Kitchen in Chinatown.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of January 9. 2008

From the January 10 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The Little Chipper...in this week's Omnivorous, LTH'er Mike Sula profiles Peerless Chips in Gary, Indiana, one of the last remaining independent salty snack manufacturers in the Chicago area.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of 2 dozen restaurants that are south of 52nd Street. Included are informative missives from the aforementioned Sula as well as fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond and Mike Gebert.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Three-way...in this week's installment David Tamarkin samples the veal cheeks at Custom House, Sepia and Zealous.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse raves about North Coast Brewery’s Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout.

There’s no food like home...David Tamarkin serves up some locally prepared regional specialties to folks who hail from where the dishes originate.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

To Market, To Market . . ....in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Fox & Obel is in talks to be acquired by Vulpes, LLC.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

He's taking a different approach to banquet fare...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews chef Troy Tornabeni of St. Andrew's Golf and Country Club in West Chicago.
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Media Digest Addendum for the week of January 9, 2008 . . .

Chicago Tribune's Best Food Photographs...The folks at the Trib have established an on-line gallery for some of their best food photographs. It's a great collection of images and defintely worth a visit.

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Media Digest for the week of January 16, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

New ham arrives in Chicago...in this special to the Tribune, Janet Mendel visits to Fuentes de Leon, Spain to help us understand what makes Spain's Jamon Iberico so special.

Is this Spain? No, it's Iowa...in this special to the Tribune, Winifred Moranville visits Norwalk, Iowa where Herb and Kathy Eckhouse operate La Quercia, an artisanal ham processing facility that many say produces the closest thing to Jamon Iberico on this side of the Atlantic.

A classic introduction to culinary Iberia...Robin Mather Jenkins provides some useful background information about the culinary traditions of the Iberian Peninsula.

In the Aisles: Blood oranges...Robin Mather Jenkins files this useful report.

New coffeehouse knows its joe...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles Miguel and Lee Corrina Cano, and their recently-opened Coffee Studio in Andersonville.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Sizing up silicone...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes visits with local pros and home bakers, including LTHForum.com's Catherine Lambrecht, who explain what they like and don't like about silicone bakeware.

Truffle-laced salt is worth its high price...Lisa Donovan sees the light, when it comes to truffle salt.

Isola Imports comes through for chefs wanting Italy's best...Pat Bruno reports on where local chefs turn when they need high-quality, Italian ingredients. And in this sidebar, a list of Chicago-area Italian delis -- sorted by location -- is provided.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Brasserie Jo, Sola, Globe Pub, Carnivale, Custom House and Sam & Harry's.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up some of the week's more promising restaurant-industry events.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of January 16, 2008

From the January 17 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Going Green Without Going Broke...in this week's Omnivorous, LTHer Mike Sula explains that while the thought of going "green" may be an attractive one for restaurant owners, the reality is that making environmentally-friendly changes in the world of foodservice can be quite costly.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of several "Vegan, vegetarian, and vegetarian-friendly restaurants" in town. Here, Mr. Sula and fellow LTHer David Hammond contribute.

The ubiquitous Sula continues his chronicles of the herd of locally-raised Mulefoot hogs at The Reader's blog, The Food Chain, with The Whole Hog Project: So Long Cong and Cherry, part three.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Oeno files...David Tamarkin assesses Santa Quiteria’s 2005 Higueruela.

The hot seat...strapping in this week is chef Catherine Miller of Shikago.

Flavor forecast...Heather Shouse takes a look at -- and a taste of -- some local examples of what 1,200 ACF member-chefs estimated would be the hottest food trends of 2008.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Chefs on the Grill - Carol Wallack...in this month's featured podcast (sadly, the last one scheduled to run at Chicago Magazine's web site), LTHer Mike Nagrant chats with Carol Wallack, the driving force behind Sola.

Name That Restaurant...in this week's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Govind Armstrong (Table 8 ) is planning to open a spot in River North.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Family influenced his love of cooking...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Carlos Farias, executive chef at McCormick & Schmick's Schaumburg location.

Bean cuisine...Lisa Ackleson explores the use of coffee as an ingredient in savory recipes.
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Media Digest for the week of January 23, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Brit invasion!...Trine Tsouderos reports on the newest wave of British culture to hit our shores -- the chefs.

Studying Italian...In case you get overwhelmed trying to navigate the 20 regions and 2,000 grape varietals of Italy, Bill Daley recommends following a strategy developed by Steven Alexander of Spiaggia, and focusing on the "Big 10" varietals.

The gluten-free phenomenon...nutrition expert Janet Helm reports on the latest health fad, gluten-free, which has expanded well beyond those with celiac disease.

North Coast Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout...Jerrald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

Gordon Ramsay: An interview...Kevin Pang dials up the notoriously hot-headed chef at his home-base in Wales.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Cookbook nation...Sandy Thorn Clark reports that cookbooks and their evolution are a great lens through which we can view our own history. In this sidebar, an historical timeline of American cookbooks is provided.

Ruby red pomegranate is a jewel...Lisa Donovan taps into the rapidly growing popularity of pomegranate.

Game day grub easy to score...Denise I. O'Neal reports that even though the Bears finished last in their division -- or maybe because of it -- great food will be easily had throughout town on Super Bowl Sunday, February 3.

This sommelier's specialty isn't wine...Lisa Donovan profiles Sushisamba Rio's Monica Samuels, Chicago's only Sake sommelier.

At the chef's table...chef Jimmy Bannos of Heaven on Seven takes up the pen for this installment.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Ra Sushi, Room 21, DiPescara, Dolce, La Strada and Fat Cat.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal highlights this week's industry happenings.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Taking on Theise...LTHer Mike Nagrant profiles wine guru Terry Theise, who was in town last week hosting a wine tasting at one sixtyblue. Mr. Nagrant attended the event, and tasting notes are included.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of January 23, 2008

From the January 24 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Wanda’s World...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH'er Mike Sula profiles and interviews Wanda Kurek, whose family has owned and run Stanley's, a south-side tavern located on Chicago's 'Whiskey Row,' since 1924.

Also provided in this week's Reader are reviews of 2-dozen other family-run spots in the Chicago area, with the aforementioned Sula contributing, along with fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, Seth Zurer and David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Everyone's a critic...it's TOC's Blog Issue and LTHForum.com gets a couple of significant mentions . . .

First, in Eating their words, David Tamarkin contends that LTHForum.com "...now wields the power to make or break a business once held by newspaper critics."

And in Amateur hour, Scott Smith explores the rise of the "average joe" critic and the credibility vacuum it's creating.
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Also at TOC this week . . .

The comeback kid...Heather Shouse chats with Michael Carlson who sheds a little light on his recent past as he readies to reopen Schwa.

Three-way...David Tamarkin reports on the treatments Meyer lemons are receiving at 3 local restaurants.

Top nosh...in this installment, Heather Shouse spills the beans about Green Zebra's newly launched Sunday brunch.

Hot sauce...this week's segment highlights a cocktail now being served at Weegee’s Lounge, which was inspired by the kindness of a customer. Craig Svozil -- who also happens to be a chef at Vie Restaurant -- contributed some brandy-soaked cherries, which led to the Alice Mine, a cocktail which features the little rubies. The recipe for the libation was found by Weegee's owner, Alex Huebner, in the 1948 first-edition Trader Vic’s Bartender’s Guide.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse recommends Brasserie Lebbe L’Amalthée, a Belgian "labor of love."
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Rabbit Stew, Guinness Stew, and Pink Ladies...in this week's installment of Dish, dining editors Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby provide a preview of Andersonville's Big Jones, which chef-owner Paul Fehribach is set to open in April.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

It's bacon!...food editor Deborah Pankey extolls the virtues of this near-perfect food and she's got a bunch of noted culinary professionals who are in complete agreement with her.

On National Pie Day, showing kindness is as easy as, well, . . ....Ms. Pankey provides a bevy of great suggestions for how to commemorate the big day.

Chef's creative juices flow at steakhouse...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Rick Gresh, executive chef at David Burke's Primehouse.
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Media Digest for the week of January 30, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The elements of Ruhlman...Monica Eng recently spent some time in Cleveland with noted food author Michael Ruhlman. Here, she recaps her visit and takes a look at his newest book, The Elements of Cooking.

New laws may put better wine on table...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley reports that recently-enacted, long-term legislative changes by the EU could result in better wines being available on the U.S. market, down the road.

A visionary celebrated...Donna Pierce reports on the Field Museum's new exhibit, An Extraordinary Man with a Mighty Vision, which chronicles the life, times and accomplishments of George Washington Carver. The exhibition opens Friday, February 1, which is the first day of Black History Month.

Confit: an ingredient for the ages...in this week's Prep School, James P. DeWan demystifies the esoteric art of making duck confit.

Torte wafers...in this week's In The Aisles feature, Renee Enna 'discovers' these versatile European crackers.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Set it and forget it -- sort of...Jennifer Olvera reports on how to get the most out of your crockpot. Links to several applicable recipes are also provided.

Hot cocoa, all grown up...Sandy Thorn Clark takes a look -- and a taste -- of several noteworthy hot chocolate preparations which are being offered throughout Chicagoland. A list of some of the favored choices is also provided.

Green Grocer is more than a name...Lisa Donovan visits this new, upscale convenience store in West Town, which specializes in organic and locally-grown foods.

Brownie pan gets an edgy upgrade...Lisa Donovan profiles Matthew Griffin and his novel, maze-like brownie pan which creates an 'edge' piece on every brownie in the pan.

Get lucky at local restaurants celebrating Chinese New Year...Denise I. O'Neal provides a list of places that will celebrate the occasion via menu options.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at foodlife, Quartino, NoMi Lounge, Gabriel's, Millrose Restaurant and Pastoral.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Super Bowls...in order ease the pain of the Bears' absence from Super Bowl Sunday -- and the memory of last year's trouncing -- LTH'er Mike Nagrant provides a list of places in town that serve super bowls of . . . soup, chili and stew.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of January 30, 2008

From the January 31 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

What’s New...LTH'er Mike Sula checks out Ja' Grill, Martha Bayne visits Prosecco and Anne Spiselman scouts Lockwood.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of 16 other newer places in town, with contributions penned by the aformentioned Sula and fellow LTH'er David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

On a wing and a prayer...LTH'er Mike Nagrant hooks up with wing-eating champion Patrick “Deep Dish” Bertoletti and goes in search of Chicago's best wings.

The hot seat...chef Dean Zanella of 312 Chicago straps in this week.

Bag it...David Tamarkin endorses McClure’s Pickles, which can be found at Olivia's Market.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

More Red Meat in River North...in this week's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that a new, Chicago-based steakhouse is coming to River North sometime this summer, with veteran chef Fred Ramos at the helm.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

The many faces of chili...Jamie Sotonoff takes an in-depth look at a Super Bowl Sunday favorite.

Raw pleasure: A girl, a dip and a bag of chips...food editor Deborah Pankey confesses her unseemly love for Stacy's Simply Naked Pita Chips.

Ingredients plus flavors equals sandwich success...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews chef-owner Andrew Welsh of A Chef and a Loaf of Bread Catering, in Elmhurst.
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Media Digest for the week of February 6, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Threads of history...in a story partially researched here at LTHForum.com, Bill Daley reports that long noodles, edible symbols of long life, are an important part of the traditional Chinese new year celebration. A primer of various types of long noodles is provided. A video stream, in which Mr. Daley instructs on how to make 'Asian Bolognese,' is also included, as are applicable recipes. In a related piece, Mr. Daley visits Chinatown's Hong Kong Noodle Company; Family firm boasts decades of noodle know-how.

Light meets might...Bill Daley reports on the satisfying pairing of Barbera and salami, one that many local wine professionals recommend. Tasting notes are included.

Oxford weighs in on Italian food...Joe Gray files mostly favorable review of The Oxford Companion to Italian Food, by Gillian Riley.

Romance is made to order at new pastry shop...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor scouts Crema, a new pastry shop and coffee bar in Lincoln Square.

Will you be my Valentine?...Renee Enna lists a few interesting resources for Valentine's Day gifting.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Big on little plates...Jennifer Olvera reports on the continued popularity of 'small plates' in the Chicagoland dining scene. A 'platter glossary' is also provided.

Savoring 31 days of culinary hits, misses...Lisa Donovan sings the praises of Peruvian corn and reviews some of the other items she'd been sampling over the past month.

Give from the heart for Valentine's Day...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller, Paige Wiser and Denise O'Neal provide a food-oriented guide to Valentine's Day gift-giving.

Vie's Virant grabs area top chef award...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports that chef Paul Virant of Vie tops the list of winners of the 2008 Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence.

At the chef's table...Gale Gand is the guest columnist this week.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at mk, Morton's, Kit Kat Lounge and Rockit Bar & Grill.

Food news...a round-up of upcoming restaurant and industry events scheduled to take place this week.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

From Belgium with Love...Sarah Klose describes her time spent in Belgium, her relationship with her ex-boyfriend and the waffles at Badaloche in Lincoln Park.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of February 6, 2008

From the February 7 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Tables for Two - Where to dine with your valentine...this week's Reader is all about Valentine's Day, with the focus on places whose offerings are intended to help you celebrate. Several prospects are reviewed, with contributions by LTH'ers Mike Sula, Gary Wiviott and David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Feels like the first time...David "Loverboy" Tamarkin comes up with 5 itineraries that'll help accentuate the romance on Valentine's Day.

Three-way...in this week's installment, Tracy Evans reports on what 3 local restaurants are currently doing with potatoes.

Oeno files...David Tamarkin files his impressions of Viña Cobos’ El Felino malbec.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

How To Live to be 120...in this week's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on one prospective path to longevity, which happens to be the inspiration behind the name of Lynne Wallack's newest restaurant, which is set to open in April.

My Favorite Sites...Chicago Magazine checks in with some local 'experts' to get their opinions on the best web sites in Chicago -- including a few about food!
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Give versatile halibut a try...food editor Deborah Pankey lays out some solid reasons for recommending halibut.

Jean Banchet Awards honor rising chefs...Lisa Ackleson reports the results of the 2008 Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence.

Chef remains true to his Sicilian roots...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Phil Campanella, chef and owner -- along with his wife Regina -- of Regina's Ristorante in Arlington Heights.
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Media Digest for the week of February 13, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

From today's 'Living' section:
Big night. Big mystery....in this in-depth piece, Phil Vettel and Monica Eng shed a little bit of light on Michael Carlson's (and Schwa's) sudden disappearance last fall.

Baker's helpers...in this special to the Tribune, Lisa Futterman provides a useful primer on how to properly outfit a kitchen for baking. The piece is accompanied by streamed video in which the Tribune's Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce offers her expertise, as well.

Head over heels for Herme and his pastry...LTH contributor Louisa Chu profiles rock-star pastry authority Pierre Herme and reports that his influence in the culinary world continues to grow -- in both professional and home kitchens. Ms. Chu also reports that Herme will be teaching a class in Chicago this spring.

Pastry fans find sweet satisfaction in new group...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles Pastry Chicago, a newly formed group "...that conducts educational events to help people understand the art of pastry and breadmaking."

Wines to fall in love over ... and with...Bill Daley considers a variety of factors in making some interesting wine recommendations for Valentine's Day. Tasting notes are included.

In the Aisles: Gres des Voges...Bill Daley endorses this Alsatian, cow's milk cheese with a rind that's washed in kirsch.

Chocolate times two...Robin Mather Jenkins files a favorable review of Chocolate, by Paule Cuvelier and Cathy Selena.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

A match made at dinner...Lynne Marek reports on the Valentine's Day intersection of dining and on-line dating.

Dethroned peppers still pack punch at Melnick's...Lisa Donovan reports on the continued popularity of the Red Savina habanero pepper -- and an extract made from them -- at Jake Melnick's.

Beginnings of going green...Dave Hoekstra explores the informative George Washington Carver exhibit, which will run at the Field Museum through July 6.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events Adobo Grill, China Grill, Roy's, Fat Cat, Iggy's and Swirl Wine Bar.

Food news...notes from the industry for the upcoming week.

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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

The Trouble with Takashi...LTH contributor Michael Nagrant explains his disappointment with the design choices -- and the food -- at Takashi.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of February 13, 2008

From the February 14 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Quest for Fire...in this week's Omnivorous, LTH'er Mike Sula profiles Chodang Tofu Village in Mount Prospect and their specialty, dubu chigae, a spicy tofu stew.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of several other Korean spots in town, with contributions by Mr. Sula and fellow LTH'ers Kristina Meyer and Peter Tyksinski.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Global warming...Danielle Braff compiles a list of 7 comfort foods from 'other lands' (and provides local sources for them) that are sure to help cure the winter blues.

Hot sauce...David Tamarkin highlights the cryovac-assisted cocktails from John Kinder at mk. A video clip of the process is included.

Save this restaurant...David Tamarkin says that La Tache in Andersonville needs our love.

The hot seat...Chef Peter Balodimas of Fahrenheit straps in this week.

Top nosh...Heather Shouse says that the fried peanut-butter-bacon-banana sandwich at The Violet Hour -- conceived by Avec line cook Justin Large -- would make Elvis jealous.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Veerasway, an upcoming new-Indian spot from noted restaurateur Angela Hepler-Lee.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

New York dreamin' for Geneva chef...food editor Deborah Pankey chronicles a meal prepared at the James Beard house in New York but chef Jeremy Lycan and his team from Niche restaurant in Geneva, IL. Related stories can be found here and here.
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Media Digest for the week of February 20, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Dot.com cooking...in a story researched in part here at LTHForum.com, Bill Daley examines the booming use of internet cooking and recipe sites. Several LTH'ers are mentioned, including Catherine Lambrecht, Michele Hays, Ann Fisher, Michael Morowitz, Tom Keith and Jonah Orlofsky (as well as a few others, whose 'real' names I did not recognize). Several recipes are included.

Author chronicles America's history through baked goods...Robin Mather Jenkins profiles self-described scribe Greg Patent and takes a look at his new book, A Baker's Odyssey: Celebrating Time-Honored Recipes from America's Rich Immigrant Heritage. An instructional video clip on making pie dough is included, as well as recipes.

Who knew scrapple had such a following?...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce responds to some favorable feedback about her mention of scrapple in a previous column. A list of local sources for it is provided.

Food movies that deserve an Oscar...in this special to the Tribune, Beverly Levitt rounds up some food moments from 2007's film releases.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

From tapioca to truffles...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller takes a look back at 60 years of food trends and food coverage by the Sun-Times, which is celebrating its 60th birthday this year. This sidebar -- 60 years of recipes -- takes a look a various recipes that have appeared in the Sun Times over the 6 decades its existence.

Spicing up Mexican hot cocoa...Lisa Donovan lists several places around town where variations of this specialty -- some not even on the menu -- can be found.

BJ's owner/chef keeps Tennessee flavor cooking...in honor of Black History Month, Chuck Sudo checks in at B.J.'s Market in Chicago's Chattam neighborhood and reports on the importance its proprietors place on keeping food traditions alive.

At the chef's table...chef Bruce Sherman of North Pond takes up the pen this week.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Bistro 110, Joey's Brickhouse, Quince at the Homestead, sola and Fat Cat.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal with the week's industry notes.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

TRU: The Next Generation - The Chemistry of Cuisine...LTH contributor -- and 2008 Golden Clog nominee -- Mike Nagrant takes a look at the unexpectedly harmonious relationship between chef de cuisine Tim Graham and wine director/sommelier Chad Ellegood of Tru, as the restaurant enters a new era.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of February 20, 2008

From the February 21 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Omnivorous - What's New...LTH contributor Mike Sula highlights a couple of new spots in town: Takashi and Crisp. Anne Spiselman takes an early look at Rustik.

The sort in this week's Reader also focuses on the new, with brief reviews of several recently-opened spots in town. Many of the submissions are penned by the aforementioned Sula, as well as fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott and David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

One for the road...David Tamarkin provides a list of some midwestern-made boutique spirits and opines on which are worth driving out of one's way to obtain.

Three-way...Hayley Bierkle reports on precisely how the arcane art of pickling is showing up on the menus at 3 Chicago restaurants.

Save this restaurant...K. Tighe explains why Nelly's Saloon in Avondale needs our love.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse endorses Trader Joe’s Vintage Ale 2007.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Dining Out: Head of the Brass...Dennis Ray Wheaton takes a brief look at a couple of new, very popular brasseries in town.

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Dale Levitski's Town & Country is at least 4 months from opening, according to Levitski, who is keeping quite busy with a variety of other projects, too.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

30-minute myth...seasoned cook Laura Bianchi calls out Rachael Ray but says that her recipes, even if they take twice as long to prepare as promised, still produce tasty food. And in this related story, food editor Deborah Pankey reveals that Ray hardly has a corner on the 30-minute meal market.

Putting a new spin on food part of his passion...Melissa Allen profiles and interviews Rich Levy, "Head Tomato" at Chicago's Salad Spinners, which currently has 4 locations in town.
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Media Digest for the week of February 27, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Got 10 minutes? We've got dinner!...Robin Mather Jenkins presents some proven strategies, tips and recipes for quickly producing satisfying, home-cooked meals.

Young chef from Wilmette makes his mark in Paris...Tribune foreign correspondent Tom Hundley profiles Wilmette native, ex-Patriot chef Daniel Rose, who wound up in Paris, opened a small restaurant called Spring and became a nearly overnight sensation.

Don't let the cheese get your goat...Bill Daley provides a solid primer -- complete with streaming video -- on goat cheese and how to successfully pair it. Tasting notes are also included.

Prep School: A French sauce blends bitter with the sweet...in this week's installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan walks us through making gastrique. Also provided is a short, instructional video in which chef DeWan and Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce demonstrate the technique.

In the aisles: Meyer lemons...Renee Enna takes a look at these sweeter-than-normal lemon hybrids, which were originally brought to the U.S. from China at the beginning of the 20th century.

Moylan's Hopsickle Imperial IPA...Jerald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

From the pantry to the pot...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes explores the convenience and benefits of cooking from one's pantry, without relying on perishable products. Ms. Zeldes interviews a couple of fellow LTH'ers in her piece, including Michele Hays and Jennifer King. Several recipes are provided, as well as this list of stocking up strategies.

IKEA tool a godsend for DIY lattes...Lisa Donovan finds the perfect tool for making lattes at home, at Ikea, of all places.

Dolly dishes out down home grub...Dave Hoekstra profiles Country music superstar Dolly Parton and files a favorable 'review' of her new cookbook, Dolly's Dixie Fixin's.

$25 for a bottle of water?...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports on a couple offerings at the new Trump Hotel, including Chicago-made Terry's Toffee and Bling water from Tennessee, which prices out at a whopping $25 per half-liter. The real story here is that the toffee is the only Chicago-made product which will be sold in the hotel's mini bars.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Viet Bistro, Ai Japanese Restaurant, Bin Wine Cafe, Treasure Island and Sepia.

Bits & bites...notes on some industry programs slated for the upcoming week.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

A Return to the Yucatan...LTH contributor and 2008 Golden Clog winner Mike Nagrant revisits Xni Pec, where he says, in spite of great food, poor service has pushed the restaurant to a critical juncture.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of February 27, 2008

From the February 28 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The Meat Pushers...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula visits the Beef and Veal Culinary Center -- which is essentially the marketing arm for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association -- and reports on what 'the meat pushers' are doing to keep Americans serving beef.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of several spots in town where one can get hamburgers, with entries by LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, Peter Engler and Mike Gebert.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Polish buffets...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant lists his favorites, in the first edition of this recurring series, which will highlight various favorites around town.

Top nosh...Laura Oppenheimer sings the praises -- and rightfully so -- of Giles Schnierle's Great American Cheese Collection.

The hot seat...this week, pastry chef Elissa Narrow of Spring and Green Zebra straps in.

Hot sauce...David Tamarkin highlights the winter libations at Sepia, 2/3 of which feature blood oranges.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Briejo, a new "'American-eclectic,'" which is set to open this May in Oak Park's arts district.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

A 'conscious' effort creates a healthier cuisine...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews chef Massimo Gaffo of Flik, a foodservice company whose customers include ABN AMRO.

Express your inner restaurant critic -- we'll pay the tab...food editor Deborah Pankey rolls out the DH's new customer review program/contest.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of February 27, 2008

From the Chicago Reader's food and drink blog, The Food Chain:

The Whole Hog Project: More piglets coming. A lot more....LTH'er Mike Sula updates his ongoing series with news that new Mulefoot-breed piglets are on their way.
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Posted this week at Chow.com:

Hot Spring in Paris...LTH'er Louisa Chu scoops the Tribune by nearly a week with her profile of Daniel Rose, a Wilmette native who's become a star chef with his tiny restaurant, Spring, in Paris.
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From the February 29 edition of the Daily Herald:

LTH'er Leah A. Zeldes has not 1 but 2 lent-related pieces . . .

Trolling for a fish fry?

Lenten seafood options
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Posted at Gourmet.com:

Burek to go in Chicago...LTH'er Mike Gebert has a photo posted along with this piece, which was penned by fellow Chicagoan -- and Time Out Chicago writer -- David Tamarkin.
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Media Digest for the week of March 5, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Eat better, feel younger...to help mark National Nutrition Month, Janet Helm provides some guidance on nutrition and "power foods."

Diet updates for Boomers...Ms. Helm provides fresh perspective on some dated information.

Sustaining a trend...in this special to the Tribune, Amelia Levin profiles Megan Munitz and Dennis Ryan and their Fraiche Kitchen, "...a company that promotes sustainability through its in-home cooking classes and dinner parties."

Muscat love...Bill Daley takes a look at -- and a taste of -- of this highly versatile grape and the array of wines made from it, which are growing in popularity. Tasting notes are included.

Cuddle up to Easter...in this week's What's Your Dish?, test kitchen director Donna Pierce instructs on how to make an Easter-oriented lamb cake. Streaming video is also included.

Tapping into pure inspiration...in this speical to the Tribune, Nina Koziol reports that "maple syrup isn't just for breakfast anymore."

A double dose of food history...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix files brief, favorable reviews of The Warmest Room in the House by Steven Gdula and A Short History of the American Stomach, by Frederick Kaufman.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

You click... you cook...Dave Hoekstra looks to the internet for cooking inspiration and instruction. Along the way, he runs into LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott. Also included is some streaming video featuring Mr. Hoekstra in the kitchen.

Pomelos brighten up final weeks of winter...Lisa Donovan showcases the "granddaddy of all grapefruits."

Face it: Beer looks good...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller profiles Rodney Kibzey of Lombard, who was recently named winner of the 2007 Samuel Adams American Homebrew Contest.

Not just winging it...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant reports on the swelling popularity of ethnic varieties of fried chicken in Chicagoland.

Ceviche: Wow guests at home...in this week's At the chef's table installment, Randy Zweiban, executive chef and partner of Nacional 27 extolls the simple virtues of ceviche.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming restaurant events taking place at Landmark Grill + Lounge, Odyssey Cruises, Niche Restaurant, Timothy O'Tooles and Isabella's Estiatorio.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up the week's industry notes.

From the March 4 edition:
How much is that pop? Gotta ask...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that as fast-food outlets expand their offerings, there's less and less room for useful information to appear on their actual menus.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of March 5, 2008

From the March 6 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Cooking by the Spirit...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula checks in at Turner’s Family Soul Food on 83rd Street, where the Turner family has been serving soul-satisfying food for 15 years.

Provided in this week's sort at the Reader are brief reviews several other places in town where soul food can be had. LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond, Seth Zurer, Rob Lopata and the aforementioned Sula do 100% of the lifting here, save for one entry from Hungry Hound, Steve Dolinsky.
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From the 'newly revamped' Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

Vintner’s row...David Tamarkin finds an interesting way to point out that none of the 4 wine stores in the South Loop are anything to get excited about.

Bag it...David Tamarkin endorses the Fusebox wine blending kit.

Three-way...Tracy Evans reports on what 3 Chicago restaurants are currently doing with harissa.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Dream a Little Dream...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby interview chef Tony Priolo who will soon leave Coco Pazzo to open his own, Piccolo Sogno, in the former Timo space.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Hungarian food flavors her life and work...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Alina Bosze, head chef at The Epicurean, in Hillside.

Doughnuts for dessert...Lisa Ackleson explores this growing trend and profiles noted donut shop, Spunky Dunkers, in Palatine: Decades of serving what customers want.
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Media Digest for the week of March 12, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Chi-town challenge...Joe Gray previews Bravo's 4th season of Top Chef, which was shot in Chicago, features a few local chefs and will debut tonight. Several related streaming videos are included.

Crazy for absinthe...in this special to the Tribune, LTH contributor Louisa Chu reports that this once illegal spirit is surging in popularity here in the U.S. now that a nearly century-old ban has been lifted. A recipe, from The Violet Hour, is included.

What causes good wine to go bad?...Bill Daley counts the ways and provides some detailed explanation, as well.

Cooking with a camera...in this special to the Tribune, Christina Biggs reports on a new roll-out from The Hearty Boys -- interactive television cooking classes, known as HBTV, that are being taped that their Lakeview kitchen space.

Cooking by the numbers to get dinner on the table...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles My Gourmet Kitchen, a do-it-yourself meal assembly business in Bucktown.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Pass the frog legs...Julianne Will explains that her child and others -- including those of LTH'ers like Melissa Graham -- are becoming increasingly well-versed at the table. Also provided is a list of Exotic restaurants in town, sorted by neighborhood.

Chicago baker ready to roll in Paris...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller previews local baker Peter Yuan's upcoming participation in the prestigious La Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie, which will take place in Paris next weekend.

With Nicotini, no need to light up...Lisa Donovan reports on a cocktail that takes the smoking ban into account.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Cityscape Bar, Geja's Cafe, Silver Cloud Bar & Grill, bluprint, Stretch Run Sporting Club & Grille and Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal with the week's industry notes.

The deep dish on 'Top Chef'...Misha Davenport previews Bravo's 4th season of Top Chef, which was shot in Chicago, and debuts tonight.

From the March 11 edition:
Cookie maker working through bankruptcy...Sandra Guy reports on recent developments at Maurice Lenell, whose continued existence at their current location is very much in question, after selling their plant as part of a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization.
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Posted recently at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Back to the Blackstone...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant recaps opening night at Mercat a la Planxa and explains why its location in the Blackstone Hotel is no small part of his love of food.

The Out-of-Towners...Nagrant takes a couple of NYC-based food writers, Frank Bruni and JJ Goode, to task for their recent, perfunctory coverage of Chicago.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of March 12, 2008

From the March 9 edition of the Chicago Tribune:

Eating close to home...in this opinion piece, LTH contributor and locavore extraordinaire Rob Gardner (aka Vital Information), explains his logical and easy-to-adapt philosophy behind eating locally.
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From the March 13 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Corn-Syrup-Free Zone...LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles premium, artisanal Das Caramelini caramels and the dynamic woman behind them, Katie Das. Linked at the end of the column is a streaming video of Das and her assistant making caramels.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Taste of Chicago...Heather Shouse reports on what foods some well-known Chicago bands crave when they are away from home.

Top (Chef) secret...TOC (in this case, David Tamarkin) spills what they know about Season 4 of Bravo's Top Chef, which was shot in Chicago. Here, you can read a full-length interview with local chef Stephanie Izard, who competed in Season 4.

Save this restaurant...Heather Shouse says that Cafe Marbella on the far north side needs our love.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse praises He’brew’s Bittersweet Lenny’s R.I.P.A., from Rock Bottom Brewery.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that chef Giuseppe Scurato, formerly of Boka, will be returning to the restaurant scene at Topaz in Burr Ridge, which is set to open early next month.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chicken soup has global appeal...food editor Deborah Pankey sings the praises of chicken soup and provides a recipe for a favorite rendition, as well.

Chef's love of cooking comes from his large family...Melissa Allen profiles and interviews Derek Rettell, owner of D.O.C. Wine Bar in Lombard.

Chicago women may have right ingredients for 'Top Chef'...food editor Deborah Pankey applies a local focus to her preview of the 4th season of Top Chef, which premiered Wednesday night, on Bravo.
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Media Digest for the week of March 19, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Try locally raised lamb for Easter...in this uncredited feature piece, the Good Eating staff report on the growing preponderance -- and popularity -- of locally-raised lamb. Additional lamb resources provided include:

Buying lamb direct?...a few local sources are referenced.

New retail cuts

Lamb cooking times

An Easter bouquet...Bill Daley advises that if you like your wine young, some of the lesser-known Bordeaux winemakers' 2005 production may be the perfect -- and affordable -- match for Easter dinner. Tasting notes are included

Frosting a cake like a pro...in this week's installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan takes up the cake spatula.

Strozzapreti pasta...in this week's In The Aisles, food editor Carol Mighton Haddix pegs this handmade, tubular pasta as one to try.

Calendar and Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews several upcoming, food and beverage-related events.

Lombard man has a way with beer...Joe Gray profiles Rodney Kibzey, who won the Samuel Adams American Homebrew Contest last year and whose winning brew was recently released for retail sale.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Growing a home...Chuck Sudo reports that Growing Home's Englewood garden, which cost nearly $500,000 to launch, is thriving during its first winter, as is the mission behind it. In a related piece, Growing Home's urban farm manager Lindsey Morris Carpenter, provides a recipe for Japanese gomae.

Flip for French pancakes...Lisa Donovan explores the growing popularity of these crepes and reveals a few places in town where they can be had.

Cakegirls take cake again...Misha Davenport profiles Mary and Brenda Maher, better known as the Cakegirls, who've won several Food Network challenges for their imaginative cakes.

Chef recalls Easter family favorites...in this week's installment of At the chef's table, chef Carrie Nahabedian of NaHa reminisces about her family Easter celebrations.

Green is flavor of day at Housewares Show...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes reports that eco-friendly was the focus at this week's International Home and Housewares Show, which took place at McCormick Place.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming food events at Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, China Grill, Brasserie Jo, Park Grill, Le Titi de Paris and Quartino.

Tasty recipe for success...Bill Zwecker recaps the star-studded, 3rd annual benefit for Chicago's Common Threads, which took place last Monday night.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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