Media Digest for the week of July 2, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Struggle in Bordeaux...Bill Daley reports from Saint Emilion, France and explains how the growing global wine market is affecting the traditions of the Bordeaux region and vice versa. Mr. Daley also provides information about the major grape varieties grown in the region. Also provided is a list of sources for the wines cited in the story.

Marking M.F.K. Fisher's 100th birthday...long before there was Jeffrey Steingarten or Robb Walsh, there was M.F.K. Fisher. On what would have been her 100th birthday, Jennifer Day takes a look at the legacy she left.

In search of a top dog...Emily Nunn recaps a recent tasting panel of hotdogs in which, remarkably, Oscar Mayer Jumbo Premium Beef Franks rated number 1.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Proud to be American...with the Independence Day holiday upon us, Sandy Thorn Clark checks in with local chef Art Smith -- whose cooking style is decidedly American -- as well as Carol Wallack and Yamandu Perez, to get their definitions of American food. Several recipes from these chefs are linked, as well.

Grapeseed oil is 'Tops' with so many...Lisa Donovan reports on the growing popularity of this oil, especially among the health-conscious.

You gotta have friends...Seth Schwartz profiles Taste Food & Wine in Rogers Park, and one of its owners, the somewhat notorious Eric Aubriot.

Tastings around town...previews of the week's upcoming events in food and beverage. Additional industry notes, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the Jun 26 edition:
You can lead them to sushi... but you can't make White Sox fans eat it...Dave Hoekstra reports that even though many Sox fans consider sushi an abomination, Blu Coral has introduced a few menu items that actually honor the palehose.
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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 July 2, 2008

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

Fuel for Food...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles Paul Schoening and his 115-year-old Gruene Coal Company, which has only 2 customers and is the last hauler of coal to the foodservice trade in Chicago.

Also provided in this week's Reader is In the Neighborhood . . . reviews of 19 West Town restaurants on the east side of Ashland Avenue. Featured here are submissions by the aforementioned Sula and fellow LTH'er David Hammond.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Tree Huggers...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby clear up the confusion about what's going on at the Oak Tree Restaurant. Also mentioned are LTHForum.com founding member Mike Gebert and his newly-launched HD Podcast/Blog, Sky Full of Bacon.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Dynamite dogs...it's TOC's big summer hotdog issue and one of the featured pieces, Wieners, exposed, is by LTH contributor Colleen Rush, who tours the Vienna Beef factory and provides an inside look at what exactly goes into what are arguably Chicago's favorite hotdogs. Also appearing are additional features by Heather Shouse, Tricia Parker, Rod O’Connor, Erin Ensign, Jake Malooley, Christina Couch, Julia Kramer, David Tamarkin, Ruth Welte and Steve Heisler.

The artisan: Jessie Oloroso...David Tamarkin profiles and interviews this former pastry chef at Scylla, who is now running her own company, Black Dog Gelato.

One for the road...Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin provide a road map to some culinary treasures of the Midwest.

The beer geek...in this week's installment, Heather Shouse checks out La Caracole Troublette, a Belgian white ale which can be found at Hopleaf and Sam's Wines.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chicago's link to hot dogs remains strong...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles and interviews hotdog fanatic Jim Photopoulus, who is also owner of Photo's Hotdogs in Mount Prospect and Palatine.

Sweet Baby Ray's chef offers taste of the South...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Paul Papadopoulos, executive chef of Sweet Baby Ray's restaurants.

Summer party tips for a healthy you, healthy planet...Ms. Pankey provides some resources and some details.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Calling for Culinary Common Sense...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant takes a well-deserved poke at a couple of culinary rock stars.
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Media Digest for the week of July 9, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

French (re)connection...with Bastille Day just around the corner, Emily Nunn reports on the growing resurgence and renewed popularity of French cuisine in Chicago. Several recipes from noted local sources are linked, as is a list of local sources for French cuisine.

Stepping up to the small plate...Bill Daley files a brief, favorable review of Mediterranean Flavors to Crave with Wines to Match - Wine Bar Food, by Tony and Cathy Mantuano.

Crafting a summer choice...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor rates several regional microbrews that match up well with the summer season.

In the Aisles: Fish sauce...Bill Daley takes a look at this fundamental ingredient, which is used in many southeast Asian cuisines.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Home grown...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant reports why more local chefs are growing their own produce. Also provided are links to a few applicable recipes.

Book offers 'hole' lot of answers to foil mystery...Lisa Donovan explains why the 2002 release, What Einstein Told His Cook, by Robert L. Wolke, is such an important book for her.

Not the retiring types...Lynne Marek reports on a couple of 75-year-olds from Lake Forest who recently graduated from Kendall College and launched their own catering company.

Tastings around town...previews of the week's upcoming events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry new, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the July 5 edition:
Economy may be tipping point for servers here...Sarah Baraba reports on some recent Zagat findings which suggest that Chicagoans are the 2nd most generous tippers in the nation (19.1%).

From the July 4 edition:
What's Chicago's drink?...Julian Camillieri checks in with some local barkeeps to learn what Chicagoans are currently drinking. Several related sidebars are also linked.
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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 July 9, 2008

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

Fuel for Food...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula shines the spotlight -- with varying levels of love -- on 2 of the most highly anticipated new restaurants in Chicago: Graham Elliot and L.20.

Also provided in this week's Reader is New Too . . . brief reviews of 15 more recent openings, filed by the aforementioned Sula, fellow LTH'er David Hammond and others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Rick Bayless plans to open a "quick-service, artisanal Mexican sandwich place" in April of next year. The Dish Duo interview Bayless about the plan, as well.

Stress Test...Cassie Walker goes behind the scenes to deliver some interesting details about Paul Kahan's highly anticipated pork-centric beer hall, which for now, is known only as Project X.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Mixed greens...Peter Vestinos provides some inspiration for creating a cocktail using brandied tart cherries, which are available at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Green things happening for Emeril Lagasse...Deborah Pankey reports on what the man who put Food Network on the map will be doing next.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

From Brazil, With Love...Ernest Barteldes reports on the growing popularity of Brazilian wines and why that popularity makes perfect sense.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 9, 2008

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Hittin’ the sauce...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant sits down with LTHForum.com frontman and barbecue maven Gary Wiviott, Smoque BBQ partner Barry Sorkin and Honey 1 proprietor Robert Adams Jr. to panel taste 7 locally-made bbq sauces . . . and the results are not pretty.
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Media Digest for the week of July 16, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Cooking with 'Top Chef' Stephanie Izard...a streamed video clip from today's WGN news, in which chef Stephanie Izard prepares a breakfast sandwich.

Summer, captured... in this special to the Tribune, Monica Kass Rogers explores one of the culinary joys of the bountiful produce season: pickling. Several recipes are provided, including one from LTH contributor Melissa Graham, who is also quoted in the piece.

Related pieces:
How to can in a boiling water bath
Pickling precautions
Pickling resources
Learn to pickle

Not your parent's sauvignon blanc...Bill Daley chronicles how sauvignon blanc -- or fume blanc, as Robert Mondavi chose to call it -- became so popular in the U.S.

New market opens up to a world of flavors...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor reports on the recent opening of the Valli Produce store in Glendale Heights, which is their 4th store.

Cheesemakers, up close and personal...a preview of the American Cheese Society's 25th Annual Conference and Competition, which will take place in Chicago next week.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

No kidding, root beer floats are for adults...Lisa Donovan reports on the adultification of yet another childhood favorite.

A sandwich they can't refuse...Seth Schwartz reports on The Godfather, the newest offering from Country House Restaurant in Alsip.

How to keep order in your office kitchen...Megan K. Scott provides some helpful advice for preventing anarchy in workplace kitchens.

Tootsie popped by the times...in this curiously-headlined piece, Cheryl V. Jackson reports that in spite of current economic conditions, Chicago-based Tootsie Roll Industries is committed to maintaining its independence.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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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 July 16, 2008

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

A Connoisseur of Chivo...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles chef Juan Zaragoza and his namesake Birrieria on south Pulaski.

Also provided in this week's Reader is All Over the Map . . . brief reviews of more regional Mexican fare, penned mainly by the aforementioned Sula, fellow LTH'er -- and Mexican-cuisine maven -- David Hammond and LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby deliver a less-than-favorable glimpse of Perennial, the new venture from the Boka team, which is helmed by chef de cuisine Ryan Poli.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Old-school Chicago bars...TOC profiles several retro bars in town, including The Green Mill and Weegee’s Lounge.

Oeno files...David Tamarkin checks out Domaine de Gournier's Rosé.

The hot seat...chef Nick Lacasse of the Drawing Room straps in this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Explore the world of American cheddar...food editor Deborah Pankey chronicles the history of American cheddar and previews the American Cheese Society's 25th Annual Conference and Cheese Competition, which is scheduled to take place in Chicago next week.

He adds dash of contemporary flair to comfort foods...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews corporate chef J. Grant Werner of Colonial Café and Ice Cream in St. Charles. A recipe from the chef is also provided.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Man with the Golden Tongue....LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that the obscure, out-of-print tome, America Eats, by Nelson Algren, is "definitely a worthwhile read."
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Media Digest for the week of July 23, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

In the Aisles: Sopes...Joe Gray provides a quick glance as these masa-based vessels.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Summer Sippers...Jennifer Olvera illuminates the intersection between your garden and refreshing summer beverages. Links to several applicable recipes are provided.

More consumers are on lookout for local produce...Lisa Donovan reports that in the wake of recent food scares, more and more Chicagoans are seeking locally-grown produce.

Fruits have a role in savory dishes, too...Kendal Duque of Sepia explains how fruit fits nicely in savory dishes. A recipe is provided.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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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 July 23, 2008

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

Double Threat...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Gebert visits P & P BBQ Soul Food in Humboldt Park which, he says, successfully brings together the elusive combination of soul food and bbq.

Also provided in this week's Reader is In The Neighborhood . . . brief reviews of 18 more Humboldt Park eateries, penned by LTH'ers Mike Sula, David Hammond, Seth Zurer and frontman Gary Wiviott.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that the vegetable-oriented food MANA Foodbar appears promising, albeit pricey.

Front Burner: Carrie Nahabedian...a streamed video of James Beard Award-winning chef Carrie Nahabedian of NaHa, preparing Roast Rack of Pork. A recipe for the dish is provided.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Disappearing act...Julia Kramer reports on why certain beloved dishes have disappeared from restaurants' menus.

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

Bag it...Tracy Evans touts A la Card Chicago’s deck, which offers some fun info, decent dining discounts -- and aids Common Threads, as well.

Beachcombing...David Tamarkin pens the first article in a series on lakeside eating. This week, he writes that 'street food' along the lake reins supreme over the food served at the permanent beachside cafés, most of which are run by the Chicago Park District.

Mixed greens...in this week's installment, Peter Vestinos concocts peach-infused bourbon with Flamin’ Fury peaches from the Sears Tower Farmers Market. Previous installments can be found here and here.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

At the time of this entry, there was no locally-originated content posted at the DH's web site.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Down with the Drawing Room...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant opines that The Drawing Room at Le Passage is a largely undiscovered treat for food and drink.
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Media Digest for the week of July 30, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Under the Piedmontese fog...Bill Daley reports from Castiglione Falleto, Italy on how the dialectic of terroir and technology have helped to form one of the world's most distinctive and highly-regarded wine regions. A primer on The grapes of Piedmont is also provided. Also appearing is a preview of an upcoming Beard Foundation fundraiser dinner in NYC, prepared by the crew from Chicago's Signature Room, which will feature wines from the 45th parallel.

Following a cheesemonger as she learns her whey...on the heels of the recently-completed American Cheese Society's 25th Annual Conference, Emily Nunn profiles Norine Mulry, a 23-year-old cheesemonger in training, who had an intense couple of days at the conference.

Zywiec Pilsner...Jerrald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

Dig into new armchair travel show for foodies...Bill Daley previews the upcoming season of PBS' Gourmet's Diary of a Foodie, which features LTH contributor Louisa Chu and debuts this coming Sunday.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Reports: Bennigan's shuts down Chicago locations...Sandra Guy and Cheryl V. Jackson report the details.

Coffee chain decides less is really more...Lisa Donovan reports on how Intelligentsia Coffee will rationalize their product line.

Shake it like a chef...chef Steven Chiapetti of Viand explains why spices and custom spice blends are integral part of his cooking. He also provides a few tips on their use.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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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 July 30, 2008

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

Double Threat...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles Craig Leva, proprietor of Arway Confections, a Chicago-based candy company that has a low profile among consumers and a solid reputation within the industry.

Also provided in this week's Reader is Oldies but Goodies . . . brief reviews of 19 "long-standing restaurants still worth a visit," penned by the aformentioned Sula and fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond, Michael Morowitz and Mike Gebert.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

From Africa to Englewood...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Sikia, "...a 75-seat African restaurant run by advanced students at Washburne Culinary Institute, [which] opens on August 1st at the institute’s new Englewood facility." The dish duo also take an amusing swipe at Jewel's public affairs department.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

At this time, no new content has been posted at TOC's web site this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Tips for cooking out without burning too much cash...food editor Deborah Pankey lays out some tips and advice for stretching the food budget.

Chef trades in laptop for stovetop...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Schaumburg resident chef Jeff Schiestel, who recently ditched his computer career to launch a catering company. Also provided is a recipe from chef Schiestel for Margarita Tilapia en Papillote.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

The Breakfast Issue...the crew at NewCity list their picks for "early-hours grub."

A Benediction...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says waxes poetic about eggs benedict and asserts that even in the worst rendtions, he can find something positive.

Reinventing Breakfast...Nagrant chats with a few local toques and gets their takes on breakfast.

Taking The Heat...Elise Biggers provides a behind-the-scenes snapshot of the venerable Lou Mitchell's.

Brunch Bingo...Sam Feldman spends some time hanging out with the brunch crew at the The Bongo Room.
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Media Digest for the week of August 6, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Roadside Americana...with the peak of the produce season upon us, Emily Nunn reports that even though they are fading away a bit, roadside farmstands are still very much on the radar. Also provided is a list of readers' favorite stands, several applicable recipes and a guide on How to freeze corn.

Good wines for tough times...Bill Daley provides some guidance on buying inexpensive white wines. Tasting notes are also included.

'Bottle Shock' strays from real 'judgment of Paris' tale...Bill Daley says that this documentary about 'the judgment of Paris,' which opens next week in Chicago, takes a bit of artistic license with the truth.

Greektown's Parthenon commemorates 40th anniversary with cookbook...Emily Nunn previews The Parthenon Cookbook: Great Mediterranean Recipe from the Heart of Chicago's Greektown, by Camille Stagg.

Travels in the spice aisle...Bill Daley files a brief, favorable review of The Spice Bible, by Jane Lawson and also gives a mention to The Spice Merchant's Daughter: Recipes and Simple Spice Blends for the American Kitchen, by Christina Arokiasamy.

In the Aisles: Sambal oelek...in this week's installment test kitchen director Donna Pierce sings the praises of this spicy, Indonesian condiment.

Ming Tsai brings his cooking show to Chicago...Bill Daley reports that the popular tv chef taped several segments for the upcoming season of Simply Ming with local chefs here in the Chicago area.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Sommelier: A wine steward in a restaurant...Julianne Will files this primer about a job about which she claims many Chicagoan are clueless. Also provided are recommendations from 3 local sommeliers. In this related piece, Misha Davenport reports on the aerial wine angels at Texas de Brazil.

Arnold Palmer knows golf and cool drink for summer, too...Lisa Donovan touts Argo Tea's rendition of this classic lemonade and iced tea blend.

So large we're breaking it into 2! More next week......Denise I. O'Neal compiles part 1 of the Sun Times' annual cooking school guide.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the August 1 edition:
Cheers! Bell's beer is back in Chicago...Kara Spak reports the happy details.
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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 August 6, 2008

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

The Tourist Trade...this week's Reader, focuses on the newcomers: LTH contributor Mike Sula checks in at Perennial and C-House. Anne Spiselman provides an early take on Ajasteak.

Also provided in this week's Reader is What Else Is New . . . brief reviews of several other newly-opened spots, penned by the aformentioned Sula and fellow LTH'er David Hammond, among others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Dinner Rush Love Story...Dining editors Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on an Elmhurst restaurateur whose emotions got the better of him recently.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The hot seat...chef Sarah Stegner of Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook straps in this week.

Smackdown: Mojitos...Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin track down the city's 2 best renditions.

Top nosh...in this week's installment, Julia Kramer touts the gelo di melone at Pasticceria Natalina in Andersonville.

Taste Quest: Budlong Woods...Misty Tosh provides a culinary road map of this north side neighborhood, along Lincoln Avenue.

Bag it: Market-Fresh Mixology...a video is provided in conjunction with the newly released book, Market-Fresh Mixology, by Bridget Albert. In the video, Ms. Albert demos a recipe from her book.

Three-way...Heather Shouse tracks what 3 local chefs are doing with Aperol.

Mixed greens: Farmers' market cocktails...Peter Vestinos continues his series with a sangria created from ingredients purchased at the Wicker Park farmers' market.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

At the time of this entry, no new, locally-originating content has been posted at the DH's web site this week.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Journey to the Journeyman...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant reports on a recent and rewarding dining experience on the other side of the lake.
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Media Digest for the week of August 13, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Countdown to a chef...Emily Nunn spends some time with culinary student Dominic Zarletti and chronicles a typical day in his very hectic life. A few recipes from the International Culinary School at the Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago, where Zarletti is a student, are also provided. Relatedly, Elizabeth Owens-Schiele compiles the Tribune's annual list of cooking classes: Back to school: Cooking classes.

Chefs exploit the farmers market in a challenge...in this special to the Tribune, Heather Lalley recaps the Country Chef Challenge, which took place last week at the Daley Plaza Farmers Market.

Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming beverage events.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Acting with food...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant trails tv chef Ming Tsai during a recent trip to Chicago and reports that, unlike other tv chefs, Ming takes a very natural approach to presenting his food on television. A recipe from noted chef Shawn McClain, with whom Ming recorded a segment for his show, Simply Ming, is also provided.

Ways to make the most of the produce we purchase...Lisa Donovan visits with a few local produce mavens who share their expertise.

Bite of summer: heirloom tomato...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, 2-time Beard award winner Sarah Stegner of Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook sings the praises of these summertime gems. A recipe from the chef, for heirloom tomato salad, is also provided.

Our annual cooking school guide (Part 2)...part 2 of the Sun Times' annual cooking school guide.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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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 August 13, 2008

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

Around the World in 80 Licks...in this week's Reader, Anne Spiselman tracks down where to get some of the area's finest frozen, ethnic-style desserts, including Village Creamery, Penang and Ethan’s Restaurant & Cafe.

Forty-one places for ice cream...brief reviews of several -- 41, in fact -- ice cream spots in Chicagoland, penned by LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond, Mike Sula and Mike Gebert, among others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Goodbye, Erba...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on the surprising closing of Erba, which will happen on September 13, mainly due to a "lack of business."

Also provided is a nice mention about LTH'er Cathy2's Chicago Foodways Roundtable and its upcoming program, "Chinese Barbecue Demystified," which will take place at Sun Wah BBQ on Argyle Street this Saturday.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Going whole hog (and lamb, and...)...Heather Shouse reports that as costs continue to rise, many local restaurants are buying whole animals and getting creative with the cuts of pork and lamb that require a bit more skill and resoucefulness to make palatable.

Mixed greens...Peter Vestinos continues his seasonal cocktail series with a recipe for a Ramos gin fizz, using Blue Marble Family Farm's (Barneveld, Wisconsin) half-and-half, which is available at the Green City Market.

Bag it...David Tamarkin touts Square One’s organic cucumber vodka.

Hot Sauce: Localvore cocktails...in this week's installment, Tamarkin recommends the locally-inspired cocktails from pastry chef Kim Schwenke at 312 Chicago.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Cucumber shows its versatility...food editor Deborah Pankey waxes poetic about cucumbers, and provides a couple of refreshing, summer recipes which showcase them.

Versatility allows him to cater to variety of tastes...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews Ryan Stewart, executive chef of Chicago Prime Meat Market in Glen Ellyn.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

YATS All Folks...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant gets a taste of Yats Cajun-Creole Cuisine on west Randolph, and promptly spits it out . . . in words, that is.
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Media Digest for the week of August 20, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

When in Italy....here's how to eat real Italian food...from Milan, Italy Karen Klages profiles home cook Ornella Marcante who has become something of an evangelist for the culture of real Italian cuisine. In addition to a few recipes and a sample menu, also provided are tips on How to book a Home Food adventure.

Merlot lovers strike back in new film...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley takes an in-depth look at the soon-to-be-released documentary film, Merlove, whose maker seeks to undo the damage done to this often maligned varietal by the 2004 film Sideways.

Blue ribbon dynasty...in this special to the Tribune, Jennifer Day reports from the recently-ended Illinois State Fair, where the culinary competitions called to mind days of old.

New shop is a study in cupcakes...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor checks out Molly's Cupcakes in Lincoln Park.

Adventures in gelato...Christopher Borrelli profiles local gelato maven Jessie Oloroso and her Black Dog Gelato.

The spice of the Caribbean...in this special to the Tribune, Jae-Ha Kim recaps Chicago Carifete's 13th anniversary celebration, which took place last Saturday in Hyde Park.

Corn kernels popping up everywhere...Desiree Chen reports from the Beijing Olympics that corn is very popular in China and often gets top bill on the menu.

In the Aisles: Burrata...Emily Nunn touts this "creamy-centered relative of [fresh] mozzarella."

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Good things come in small packages...Allecia Vermillion reports on the art of the amuse bouche in Chicago-area restaurants. Several noted local chefs are quoted.

Latest frozen yogurt touts true health benefits...Lisa Donovan reports on the new wave of frozen yogurts which, unlike previous incarnations, offer live and active probiotic cultures.

Sonic vroom...in this piece, which originally appeared in the Beacon News, Erika Wurst reports on the absolutely perplexing excitement behind Sonic's recent arrival in Chicagoland.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the August 19 edition:
Weak economy biting restaurants...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on how some local restaurants are contending with a weak economy in their efforts to maintain customers.

From the August 18 edition:
Health food for the soul...Cheryl V. Jackson profiles T. Shawn Taylor and Quentin Love, and their Austin eatery Quench, a soul food restaurant which focuses on healthy options.
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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 August 20, 2008

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

Hummus, Baba . . . and Injera?...in this week's Reader, Kate Schmidt visits Green Village Restaurant and Lalibela, while Tasneem Paghdiwala checks out Blue Nile Restaurant.

Out of Africa...brief reviews of several African spots in town filed by Reader columnist -- and LTH contributor -- Mike Sula, as well as fellow LTH'ers David Hammond and Kristina Meyer, among others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby ask one of their colleagues to explain the Sonic phenomenon.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

At the time of this entry, no new, locally-originating content had been posted at TOC's web site this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Country onions, wine and bubbles make my heart race...food editor Deborah Pankey blurbs out on a few timely topics.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Holy Mole...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant begrudgingly admits that mole maven Geno Bahena still has it, but not before mildly calling him out.
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Media Digest for the week of August 27, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Revival vines...Christine Spolar, the Chicago Tribune's foreign correspondent, reports from Momjan, Croatia -- along the fabled 45th parallel -- where a concerted effort is underway to restore the region's wine prominence. Bill Daley contributes this list of the grapes grown in the region. Additional information about the number of vineyards and wine regions is also provided.

Some foods with a bad rap not as bad as we thought...nutrition expert Janet Helm reports that some foods which have previously been considered nutritionally deficient, are now being reconsidered.

Beer of the Month: Franziskaner Hefe-Weisse...Jerrald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

Chefs become kids again at museum fundraiser...Bill Daley previews Night of a Thousand Clean Plates, a food-related fundraiser which will take place at the Kohl Children's Museum of Greater Chicago in Glenview on September 7.

Dicey weather provides challenges, opportunities to Michigan's apple farmers...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor reports on how Michigan's apple farmers deal with some challenges that they simply cannot control.

Chicago Culinary Museum honors Rick Bayless...in this special to the Tribune, Heather Lalley previews chef Bayless' upcoming induction into the Chicago Culinary Museum and Chefs Hall of Fame.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Make that next burger from flavor-packed, healthy bison...'food detective' Lisa Donovan discovers the virtues of this lean protein.

Bayless' boundless energy and passion are honored...Sandy Thorn Clark reports the details of chef Bayless' induction tonight into the Chicago Culinary Museum and Chefs Hall of Fame.

Healthier food, bottom line for Starbucks?...Bruce Horovitz reports than in an effort to revitalize sales and profits, they are on the brink of rolling out some new, healthier food items, including a new breakfast line.

Bounty of the season's perfect for chilled soups...in this week's installment of At the Chef's Table, executive chef Christophe David of NoMi trades his whites for a pen. A recipe from the chef is also provided.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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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 August 27, 2008

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

The Local Wiener...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles Vienna Beef vice president Bob Schwartz and previews his forthcoming book, Never Put Ketchup on a Hot Dog.

Hot Dog!...brief reviews of several favored hotdog joints in town, penned by the aforementioned Sula, as well as fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond and Mike Gebert.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

A New Urban Legend...in this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby add to the chorus of praise for Bill Kim's newly-launched Urban Belly in Logan Square, and they mention LTHForum.com in the process.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The Pasta Puttana...David Tamarkin profiles local pasta-making maven Jessica Volpe, whose wares are available in several markets around town.

Land of plenty...on the heels of the Beijing olympic games, Heather Shouse provides a guide for regional Chinese food in Chicago.

Mixed greens...in this installment, Peter Vestinos provides a blueprint for making your own vegetable-infused vodka with produce from City Farm.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

From army cook to bistro chef, he knows how to feed hungry people...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews chef/owner Jack Liang of Asian Bistro in Arlington Heights. A recipe from Liang, for chicken wrapped in lettuce leaves, is also provided.

Ceviche a perfect end-of-summer dish...Caroline LeBlanc explains why this popular dish is a great match for the season.

Avocado oil a healthy addition to your pantry...Caroline LeBlanc reports on this not-too-common oil, which is gaining favor with the heath-conscious.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Gin Blossom...Mike Nagrant profiles and interviews fresh-market cocktail expert -- and noted author -- Bridget Albert.
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Media Digest for the week of September 3, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Spread the love...in this special to the Tribune, Donna Pierce reports that peanut butter is making a resurgence, and confers with a couple of experts who've penned tomes about it. Several recipes are linked. Relatedly, in The truth about peanuts, Ms. Pierce explains that peanuts are neither peas nor nuts. Also included is Battle of the brands, in which Bill Daley compares several different makes.

The Cinderella grape...Bill Daley sings the praises of pinot blanc, a grape varietal that gets very little respect. Tasting notes are included.

Old-school tool...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan explains why food mills are so valuable in the kitchen.

In The Aisles: Black rice...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix recommends this relatively obscure grain, which is reputed to provide some health benefits.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

An uplifting aspiration...Dave Hoekstra checks out Uncommon Ground restaurant's organic rooftop farm, which is no small part of the restaurant's focus on local, organic and sustainable food.

Take a hint from squirrels; eat nuts daily...Lisa Donovan reports on the purported health benefits associated with eating nuts.

A new take on kid classics...Julianne Will previews this Sunday's Night of a 1,000 Clean Plates fundraiser at Kohl's Children's Museum in Glenview, which will benefit the StoryBus.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the September 1 edition:
Here's looking at brew...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on the expansion plans of Chicago-based Argo Tea.
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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 September 3, 2008

From the September 4 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

What’s New...in this week's Reader, the newbs get the spotlight, as LTH contributor Mike Sula scouts Blue 13 and Tamalli, while Anne Spiselman previews El Veneno Mariscos.

New Too...brief reviews of several other recently-opened spots, penned by -- among others -- the aforementioned Sula and fellow LTH'er David Hammond.
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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 Beard Award-winner Shawn McClain will open a 185-seat restaurant in Las Vegas next year.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

TOC's Fall Preview:
Open fire...David Tamarkin files an illuminating preview of Publican.

Repeat performance...Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin preview 4 forthcoming restaurants from local chefs who have already enjoyed some success.

Figure ate...David Tamarkin provides a snarky, 'by the numbers' preview of the big Chicago Gourmet event, which is coming up later this month.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Apple pie still tops in America...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on apple pie's enduring popularity. In this related piece, Orchards report good yields, higher prices, Ms. Pankey and Caroline LeBlanc update us on the conditions of this year's local apple crop. Ms. LeBlanc also reports on which varieties of apples are best suited for pie-baking: Choose the best apples for baking.

Family learns to love 'momified' recipes...Laura Bianchi profiles home cook Cyndee Moriarty, whose family has come to love her special take on various recipes.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Inside the Urban Belly...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says the food at newly-opened Urban Belly is "not great" and that its fans are likely to include "unadventurous pseudo-foodies and hipsters with money to burn."
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Media Digest for the week of September 10, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Gateway to Asia...in this special 'Culinary Took Kit,' chef Lisa Futterman reports on some essential resources in Chicago for those who want to bring an Asian influence into their kitchens. Included with the piece is a sidebar entitled Where to shop.

Wines for winging it...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley reports on Good Eating's blind tasting of 6 different wines with Buffalo-style chicken wings. Scores are included.

Fresh take on cocktails...in this special to the Tribune, Heather Lalley reports on the rapidly growing popularity of seasonal cocktails and checks in with author Bridget Albert, a noted expert on the subject.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Latin cooking as American as apple pie......Sandy Thorn Clark reports that interest is spreading like wildfire. Also provided are tips for Stocking a Latin kitchen, as well as several recipes.

Pastry chefs tweak sweet, savory combos...Lisa Donovan reports on the growing savory cupcakes (and other baked goods) trend in Chicago.

From the farm to the Pond...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant reports on a recent expedition which took the crew at North Pond directly to the sources of several ingredients which are used in the restaurant.

Childhood interest inspires dessert...Ben Roche, pastry chef of Moto, takes up the pen in this week's installment of At the Chef's Table.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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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 September 10, 2008

From the September 11 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The Cookbook Queen...in this week's Omnivorous, column, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles Chicago's now defunct Culinary Arts Institute and the driving force behind it, editor Ruth Berolzheimer.

All American...brief reviews of 15 restaurants in town through which one can taste the country. Pieces here are penned by the aforementioned Sula and fellow LTHer David Hammond.
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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 Kevin Shikami has retired from the restaurant business and will relocate to Hawaii after a trip -- with his new bride -- to Southeast Asia. Replacing him at Shikago, which is owned by Kevin's brother Alan, will be chef Ryan McCaskey, who recently completed a short stint at Courtright’s in Willow Springs.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Born to eat wild...Rod O’Connor trails a group of local foragers at the Red Oak Nature Center in Batavia.

Mixed greens...in this week's installment, Peter Vestinos pairs Square One organic cucumber vodka and seedless watermelons, the latter of which can be found at the Oak Park Farmers' Market. See also, last week's installment, wherein Vestinos describes a libation that incorporates Rosy Raspberry Vinegar, which can be found at the Daley Plaza Market.

The hot seat...this week, chef Molly Harrison of Green Zebra straps in. In last week's installment, Chef Ben Sheagren of Hopleaf enters the crucible.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Sepia pastry chef things change is good...Caroline LeBlanc profiles and interviews chef Cindy Schuman, a Buffalo Grove native. Chef Schuman's recipe for Apple Cake is provided.

World-class kitchen store opens in Northwest suburbs...food editor Deborah Pankey previews the opening of Sur Le Table's new store in South Barrington.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

My Favorite Things: The Three-peat...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant lists a few of his favorite recent edibles around town.
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Media Digest for the week of September 17, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Russian renaissance...continuing the Tribune's series on wine regions along the 45th parallel, Alex Rodriguez reports from Sadovy, Russia, where the resurging wine industry is struggling with some obstacles leftover from the Soviet era. In Buying the wines -- a piece partially researched here at LTHForum.com -- Bill Daley lists a few places in town where Russian wines can be purchased. Also penned by misters Rodriguez and Daley is a reference of The grapes which are indigenous to the Krasnodar province.

In the Aisles: Chinese five-spice powder...Renee Enna talks up this "multi-tasking Chinese blend."

A toast to a new wine shop...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles Red & White Wines in West Bucktown.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Women & wine...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles 3 Illinois women who are blazing a trail (for other women) in the wine industry. In The nose knows, Ms. Clark emphasizes the importance of recognizing aromas in enjoying wine. Also provided is a short guide for using leftover wine: Wine: Good to the last drop.

'Clamwich' introduces us to surf clam. Tell us your food finds...Lisa Donovan profiles this creation from The Fish Guy.

What goes up must come down...Paige Wiser profiles Doran Swan, Jennifer Cutilletta and their successful North Center rooftop 'farm.'

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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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 September 17, 2008

From the September 18 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Oenonomics 101...in this week's Omnivorous, column, LTH contributor Mike Sula interviews author Tyler Colman, aka Dr. Vino, a man with a vast and fundamental understanding of the wine industry.

Fruit of the Vine...brief reviews of 19 local wine bars, penned by -- among others -- LTHer David Hammond.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that the much ballyhooed iCream has run into some unanticipated technical problems, which center around their liquid nitrogen gimmick, and that they will be closed to remedy them for 6-8 weeks.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Moving Maxwell...LTH contributor Colleen Rush re-maps the new Maxwell Street Market at its new venue.

The localvore movement: It really is a challenge...David Tamarkin shares his thoughts about the Green City Market's localvore challenge.

The artisan: Jo Brena Bleach...Julie Kramer profiles and interview this former military cook who is now following her bliss through The Bee’s Knees, a company she started, which turns out artisanal jams.

Save this restaurant...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that the South Side's Cafe 103 needs our love.

Mixed greens...Sepia's Peter Vestinos creates a refreshing libation with cucumbers purchased at the Daley Plaza Market.

Three-way...David Tamarkin and Julia Kramer report on how 3 local chefs are currently preparing chicken wings.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Pierogi still popular after all these years...Jane Ammeson reports on the enduring love we Chicagolanders have for pierogi. Relatedly, a mention of a pierogi festival which takes place each July in Northern Indiana is also made.

Kids' knife class lets mom pare away apprehension - sort of...food editor Deborah Pankey reports that the knife skills class for kids, which is conducted at Le Titi de Paris in Arlington Heights, didn't completely dissolve her parental fears but it did effectively teach her kid a few things.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Cafecito puts Cuba in the Loop...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant lauds Cafecito -- a new Cuban eatery in the loop -- and reaches an inner peace regarding his earlier slam of Yats, in the process.
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Media Digest for the week of September 24, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Bountiful holiday...Emily Nunn profiles the food traditions that are a part of Rosh Hashana, which is coming up next week. Several applicable recipes are linked.

Roux the day...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan explains the importance of this basic building block of cooking and lays out simple instructions for making it.

Gumbo and the grape...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley provides some pairing advice and some tasting notes pertaining to wines and gumbo.

Football cookbook scores points for the needy...Renee Enna briefly highlights The Sunday Night Football Cookbook: 150 Great Family Recipes from America's Pro Chefs and NFL Players, to which locals Susan Goss and Bears tight end Desmond Clark have contributed. No word on whether Clark provides an entire recipe or just 3/4 of one

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.

From the September 21 edition:
Morality bites...Monica Eng chronicles her mission to "witness to the death of every kind of animal" she eats.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

And hold the sneezes, please...Rachel Finn reports on what some local chefs are doing to accomodate those with food alleriges. Included is a streamed video in which Ina Pinkney (Ina's) makes gluten-free fried chicken and an uncredited recipe for gluten-free green tea muffins. In a related piece, A gluten sufferer rises to occasion with education, Ms. Finn profiles Sunshine Best, a Celiac disease sufferer who helps others through her on-line bakery web site.

Laloo's lets you get your goat in yummy ice cream...Lisa Donovan profiles Laloo's goat milk based ice creams, which are made in California and available at Whole Foods.

Now that's fast food...Jerry Soverinsky profiles Patrick Bertoletti, a competitve eater who was recently in Chicago for a jalapeno-eating contest.

City wants grocers to step up...Sandra Guy reports on Mayor Daley's recent comments about achieving grocery equality throughout Chicago.

Pork tenderloin holds memories of falls long ago...chef Robert Burcenski of Tallgrass is At the Chef's Table this week. A recipe from the chef is also provided.

Breakfast menu is a hit, Starbucks says...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on the early results of the coffee chain's recent, new breakfast menu rollout.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, usually compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the September 18 edition:
Jewel makes 2nd try at small-scale store...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on the recent opening of Urban Fresh 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 September 24, 2008

From the September 25 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

A Potluck With the Spirits...in this week's Omnivorous, column, LTH contributor Mike Sula reports on a recent Cambodian event called Kann Ben, which is part of the annual festival of Pchum Ben. The event is a meal -- as much for the spirit, as for the body. Sula also provides information about some additional Kann Ben events that will be taking place in the next few days.

Argyle Street and Beyond...brief reviews of 13 Asian restaurants in Uptown, which were penned by the aforementioned Sula and fellow LTHer David Hammond, among others.
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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 a replacement for recently-departed chef Martial Noguier has been hired at One Sixtyblue.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The critical condition...David Tamarkin explores the influence of on-line, amateur restaurant reviews and mentions LTHForum.com in the process.

Mixed greens...in this week's installment, Peter Vestinos creates a seasonal cocktail using Earth First Farm’s cider, which can be purchased at the Edgewater Farmers’ Market.

Hot sauce...David Tamarkin checks out the Ward 8, which can be quaffed at In Fine Spirits in Andersonville.

The hot seat...this week, chef Kaminsky Thomas of Anteprima, straps in.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef's skill has roots in Italy and Mexico...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Alejandro Perez, chef and owner of Il Tartufo Bianco in Wauconda. A recipe from chef Perez, for Tilapia in Crosta di Patate (Potato-crusted Tilapia), is also provided.

Beer warms up to cool-weather foods...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on the culinary, seasonal joys of beer.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Natural Dogs...Sarah Klose checks out the natural dogs -- and the other fare -- at Drew's Eatery on West Montrose.
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Media Digest Extra for the week of September 24, 2008

From the September 25 edition of the Chicago Tribune:

Top Chicago chefs dish on dining...Monica Eng sits down with a group of noted, local chefs who vent about a variety of subjects, including LTHForum.com

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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 for the week of October 1, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The wacky world of fake food...Emily Nunn explores the world of counterfeit comestibles. A couple of applicable recipes are provided.

Hey, amigo, try my tempranillo...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley provides some background TAPAS (Tempranillo Advocates, Producers and Amigos Society), an advocacy and marketing group for American-made wines made from Iberian-grown grapes.

Helping kids eat better...Joe Gray profiles David Zinczenko and Matt Goulding who penned the nutrition guides Eat This, Not That: For Kids and Eat This, Not That.

Ice cream with finesse, protein-packing granola bars and lunch storage containers...Renee Enna checks out some products that are available in the consumer marketplace.

Wine flows at Chicago Gourmet...Bill Daley recaps last weekend's Chicago Gourmet event and says that he appreciated the stronger than expected wine presence.

Seasoning cast-iron pans...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix answers a reader's question about seasoning cast iron.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Savor the flavor...Dave Hoekstra chats with Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page, who were in town to promote their new book, The Flavor Bible.

There's a big story behind coffee boy...Lisa Donovan gets the story behind the bronze sculpture that sits atop Julius Meinl on North Lincoln Avenue.

Numbers add up at suburban egg company...Denise I. O'Neal profiles Lansing-based National Pasteurized Eggs.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, usually compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the September 29 edition:
At upscale eateries, traditional breakfast offering is toast...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that at many local eateries and hotels, grand breakfasts are being served.

From the September 28 edition:
Star chefs serve up a gourmet taste of Chicago...Cheryl V. Jackson and Dave Newbart recap Day 1 of last weekend's Chicago Gourmet event.
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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 October 1, 2008

From the October 2 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

What's New...in this week's Reader, the spotlight is on some newer spots. LTH contributor Mike Sula visits Urban Belly and Duchamp. Martha Bayne checks out the Old Oak Tap.

New Too...brief reviews of 10 additional new eateries, including a few penned by -- among others -- the aforementioned Sula and fellow LTHer David Hammond.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Due to "playoff fever," Dish is empty this week.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Mixed greens...Peter Vestinos instructs on how to make homemade pear liqueur using Lehman’s Orchard Pears from the Federal Plaza farmers' market.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse previews tonight's special Oktoberfest beer event at Piece, which will feature their brewmaster Jonathan Cutler and a host of other local brewers.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Latino bakeries create sweet temptations...Elena Ferrarin provides brief glimpses of several Latino bakeries in Chicagoland.

Grab a mug of eggs for breakfast on the go...food editor Deborah Pankey touts some ideas for quick breakfast solutions, offered by the Mushroom Council.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Burger Battle...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant conducts a personal taste test of 4 of the city's newest burger offerings.
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