Media Digest for the week of October 8, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Culinary courier...as Columbus Day approaches, Bill Daley chronicles how "Columbus' historic voyages changed the world's menu." Included as part of this special section -- Columbian Exchange -- are additional pieces on a variety of foods which are decidedly new world, as well as this list of some of the most popular foods of the Americas: The American larder.

Pecans: Love it or leave it, it's a distinctive nut, Power to the cranberry and Potato: A tuber with staying power, by Emily Nunn

Amazing maize: Indian corn travels the world and Sweet potatoes: Centuries of sweet nutrition, by food editor Carol Mighton Haddix

Squash: A triumph after a mistaken identity and Tomato: The well-traveled orb's adventures around the world, by Joe Gray

Chiles: Columbus performs the old switcheroo, by Bill Daley

Chocolate: The food we hold sacred, by Renee Enna
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Ayinger Oktober Fest-Marzen...Jerald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

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:

Throw a fall feast for friends despite famine...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes provides some tips on how to entertain without having to "break the budget." Also provided are links to several applicable recipes from folks quoted in the article.

Squash's flavor, if not name, is now familiar...Lisa Donovan profiles kabocha squash, which she reports is "the centerpiece of the seasonal favorite, Harvest Pumpkin Soup, at national chain Au Bon Pain . . ."

Need fresh produce? Head to the Loop...Dave Hoekstra visits Chicago's Downtown Farmstand -- located in in the former Gallery 37 Cafe space -- which bowed on October 1. Also provided is a streamed video of the farmstand.

Use pumpkin as a way to make a toast to the season...Dominque Tounge -- executive chef at Bistro 110 -- files this week's At the chef's table installment. Also provided is a recipe from chef Tounge for pumpkin soup.

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.
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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 8, 2008

From the October 9 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Tweaking Traditions...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula hits the 'burbs and checks out recently-opened Shabu House and Soul, while Kate Schmidt visits another newb, Miss Asia in Lincoln Park.

More Than Maki...reviews of 13 Japanese eateries, penned by the aforementioned Sula, fellow LTHer Kristina Meyer and several other Reader regulars.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby provide a sneak peek of Eve, the upcoming restaurant from Matt Fisher, who also owns the relatively new Tallulah.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Smackdown: Cuban sandwiches...Heather Shouse compares 9 different renditions and the one she judges to be the best may be one you don't even know . . . yet.

Save this restaurant...Martha Bayne says that Thai Aree in Kilbourn Park needs some love.

Oeno files...in this edition, David Tamarkin assesses the 2004 Espelt Saulo, which can be purchased at South Loop Wine Cellar.

The hot seat...this week's edition features Mindy Segal of Hot Chocolate.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Finding the frosting to fit the occasion...food editor Deborah Pankey and Caroline LeBlanc lay out the differences between several different types of cake toppings. Also included are recipes for several of the items discussed in the piece.

Chef takes pride in French cuisine, foie gras...Caroline LeBlanc profiles and interviews sous chef Brent Fiedor of Rox City Grill (at the Hotel Baker) in St. Charles. A recipe from chef Fiedor, for Quenelles of Trout in a Watercress Sauce, is also provided.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Breaking Down the Bristol...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant contends that even though The Bristol is derivative of Mado, it still manages to score some points on its own.
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Media Digest for the week of October 15, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Far East promise...continuing the Tribune's series on wine regions along the revered 45th parallel, Evan Osnos files this special in which he reports from the Xinjiang Province, China, where ambitious locals are trying to put their nascient wine industry on the world map. Also provided is Hunting down China's wines, in which Bill Daley provides some sourcing information and tasting notes on a few Chinese wines.

Sipping local...Bill Daley reports on a new initiative -- DrinklLocalWine.Com -- which intends to raise awareness of local wines across the U.S.

Rice at a nice price...Renee Enna compares 3 low-cost, petite rice cookers.

Shopping urban, shopping local...Susan Taylor and Renee Enna check out a couple of new stores that hope to accomodate and capitalize upon our ever-changing shopping preferences.

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:

Meet the Food Nanny...Jennifer Olvera profiles Liz Edmonds, aka the Food Nanny, author of The Food Nanny Rescues Dinner: Easy Family Meals for Every Day of the Week . Also linked are a couple of recipes from the book.

Power-ful good doughnuts are made from sweet potatoes...Lisa Donovan checks out the quartet of sweet potato mini-doughnuts served at Powerhouse by executive chef Jeff Mauro.

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 October 13 edition:
Orange you thirsty?...Cheryl V. Jackson that pumpkin-flavored beers are selling better than ever in Chicagoland.
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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 15, 2008

From the October 16 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Subterranean Soul...in this week's Reader, LTH contributors Peter Engler and Rob Lopata highlight "Five under-the-radar home-style restaurants that should be better known."

South-Side Scene...brief reviews of several South-Side spots penned by the aforementioned Engler, as well as fellow LTHers Gary Wiviott, Mike Sula and David Hammond, among 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 Bill Kim has officially left Le Lan and will focus his efforts 100% on his new venture, Urban Belly.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Tastes good on paper...David Tamarkin takes a look at some of the seaon's newly-released food books.

Three-way...Heather Shouse reports on what 3 local chefs are doing with smoke.

Hot sauce...Heather Shouse checks out the Clover Club and the Violet Fizz from bartender Paul McGee at The Whistler.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Absinthe making a comeback...Caroline LeBlanc reports on the resurgence of this once banned spirit.

Popcorn a blank canvas for spicy snacks...Caroline LeBlanc explains that popcorn is a perfect base for many made-at-home snacks.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Consider the Oyster...in the face of some tough economic times, LTH contributor Mike Nagrant provides some guidance for food devotees.
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Media Digest for the week of October 22, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Rising to the task...continuing the Trib's Culinary Tool Kit series, Lisa Futterman reports that a large part of successful bread-baking is having the right tools on hand, which she lists. Also provided is a recipe for grissini from noted baker Nick Malgieri.

New food pyramid designed to help parents....in this special to the Tribune, nutrition expert Janet Helm reports that yet another food pyramid will be released by the USDA -- this one designed for preschoolers.

Simple steps to the perfect gravy...with Thanksgiving right around the corner, James P. DeWan uses this week's Prep School installment to educate in the ways of perfect gravy.

A match made in southern Italy...Bill Daley identifies some wines that go great with thin-crust pizza. Tasting notes are included.

Seasonal food, with a touch of fantasy to spare...Emily Nunn files a brief, favorable review of Season: Cooking with Vegetables and Fruits, by Sarah Raven.

Rules for slow-cooker recipes...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix provides some guidance for using slow-cookers.

Good Eating, food staffers win awards...congratulations to Bill Daley, Donna Pierce, Carol Mighton Haddix, Bill Hogan, Robin Mather Jenkins and Leah Eskin, who were all recently recognized -- with awards -- by the Association of Food Journalists.

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:

'Tis the seasonings...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes charts the history of the kielbasa in Chicago and explains that it's not necessarily synonymous with what we in Chicago refer to as Polish sausage. Also provided is a great list of sauages one can generally find at Chicago's Polish markets: Help for the Kielbasa conundrum. Also linked are a couple of applicable recipes.

Watermelon will be around awhile longer...Lisa Donovan explains how some local groceries will be able to stock watermelons through at least the end of November.

A balance of flavors brings out best in food...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, chef Roy Yamaguchi of Roy's takes up the pen and provides a recipe for Tender braised beef short ribs in the process.

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 October 22, 2008

From the October 23 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The Restaurant Closes, the Recipes Live On...in this week's Reader, Anne Spiselman reports on how Rinconcito Sudamericano will end its 28-year run in November by completing a transition into Rio’s d’Sudamerica, both of which are owned and operated by the Perez family.

South of the Border...brief reviews of several Latin American restaurants in town, with some penned by LTHers Gary Wiviott, Mike Sula and 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 on the impending check-out of Rick Tramonto and Gale Gand from the The Westin Chicago North Shore.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Umami dearest...Bianca Jarvis goes in search of authentic Japanese food in Chicago and comes up with several suggestions.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Experienced chef shares passion for food at specialty store...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews Dave Esau, chef/owner of Dave's Specialty Foods in Mount Prospect. A recipe from chef Esau for Waldorf Apple Salad is also provided.

Mixing it up with classic cocktails, modern twists...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on the current state of the cocktail scene.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

The Captain of C-House...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant interviews Marcus Samuelsson, executive chef at the recently opened C-House.
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Media Digest for the week of October 29, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Gruesomely good...Renee Enna provides some suggestions for healthy, produce-based items to help celebrate Halloween. Several applicable recipes are linked, as well.

Cyber-sippers assemble at conference...Bill Daley reports from the first-ever North American wine blogger's conference which, ironically, took place in person in Santa Rosa, California last week.

Eating strong, smart, green...nutrition expert Janet Helm recaps the American Dietetic Association's Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo, which took place in Chicago and wrapped up yesterday.

Artisan root beers bubble up with myriad flavors...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor compares several brands of this increasingly popular beverage. Tasting notes are included.

Bookshelf: Eat Feed Autumn Winter...Emily Nunn files a brief, favorable review of this newly released cookbook, written by Anne Bramley.

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:

Party politics...Sandy Thorn Clark provides some tips for hosting Election Night parties. Also linked are several recipes, including some provided by Paul Salida, beverage manager at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago, for thematic cocktails.

Whole lot of shaking goin' on...Sue Ontiveros reports from Rio Oso, California where she checks out some recent technology advances which have made walnut harvesting more efficient than ever before. Relatedly, Ms. Ontiveros files Walnuts battle illnesses, in which she lists some of the health benefits walnuts are said to provide. Also linked is a recipe for Walnut Quinoa Salad.

One bite and you'll know why sweet treat's such a delight...Lisa Donovan checks out the noted confection Turkish Delight, which is enjoying a bit of a resurgence after being featured in the film version of The Chronicles of Narnia.

See the seafood at C-House...Denise I. O'Neal profiles Marcus Samuelsson, executive chef at the recently opened C-House in Chicago.

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

From the October 23 edition:
Dollar Menu stays, but will be 'tweaked'...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that due to rising food costs, McDonalds plans to change up their Dollar Menu.
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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 29, 2008

From the October 30 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The Great Pumpkin...in this week's Reader, Anne Spiselman reports on "what Chicago chefs are doing with the locavore-friendly squash this season."

Fall Flavors...brief reviews of several restaurants that offer seasonal fare. Missives here are penned by LTHers Mike Sula and David Hammond, among 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 deliver several tasty morsels, including news of pizza coming soon to Trattoria Trullo in Lincoln Square and of some recent recent bullishness at Restaurant Michael in Winnetka.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

What’s cookin’, good lookin’?...Heather Shouse provides some personal ads for local foodservice personnel who are seeking companionship. Videos are also included.

Save this restaurant...LTH contributor Mike Gebert says that Amira's Trio on North Cicero Avenue needs our love.

The hot seat...chef Troy Graves of Tallulah straps in this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

There is no locally-originating content posted at the Herald's web site this week.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

I Can See for Miles...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out 90 Miles Cuban Café, in Roscoe Village.
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Media Digest for the week of November 5, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

10 to honor...the Good Eating staff announces the recipients of their 2008 awards, which include Ina Pinkney and Gary Cuneen.

White wines buoy up clam chowder...Bill Daley delivers some information and tasting notes on white wines that pair up especially well with clam chowder's innate saltiness, regardless of the chowder's variety.

Remaking a classic bestilla...in this special to the Tribune, JeanMarie Brownson provides some tips on how to quicken up this normally time-consuming Moroccan delicacy.

Buffalo Bills Brewery Pumpkin Ale...Jerald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

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

Posted on November 4 at The Stew:
They voted and . . . LTHForum folks pick 2008 Great Neighborhood eats...Trine Tsouderos reports on LTHForum's 2008 Great Neighborhood Restaurants, which were announced on Monday November 3rd at Sun Wah BBQ on Argyle Street.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

What's all the buzz about?...Sandy Thorn Clark reports on the buzz factor surrounding the local restaurant scene and identifies several places that have it.

Does bacon get any better than this?...Lisa Donovan checks out several different bacon services that can be found around town.

Behind the curtain...Seanan Forbes recaps a recent appearance and demo by Chef Grant Achatz at the Gourmet Institute in New York City.

Bread winners...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant reports that the 82-year-old bread-baking tradition being kept alive at Italian Superior Bakery on South Western Avenue is most definitely a family affair.

Any day is a good day for stuffing...Susan Maddox of Le Titi de Paris in Arlington Heights pens this week's At the Chef's Table installment. A recipe for wild mushroom and brioche stuffing 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 November 5, 2008

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

Good Beer, Broiled Eel, and Foot-On Chicken...this week's Reader highlights some newer spots, with early looks at The Bristol and 90 Miles Cuban Cafe by Mike Sula and a visit to Jaipur chronicled by Anne Spiselman.

New Too...brief reviews of 9 additional new spots, with some penned by the aforementioned Sula, as well as fellow 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 on another new entrant into Chicago's Neapolitan pizza scene, which is coming to Andersonville. The dish duo also deliver a nice mention of LTHForum's newly announced 2008 Great Neighborhood Restaurants, which includes a quote from GNR Czar David Dickson.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Guess who’s coming to dinner?...Lisa Shames provides a primer on Chicago's up-and-coming communal table scene.

Save this restaurant...Martha Bayne says that Great Neighborhood Restaurant Sahara Kabob in Rogers Park needs our love.

Three-way...David Tamarkin checks out what's currently being pickled at three local restaurants.

Oeno files...David Tamarkin assays Jean-Luc Pasquet’s Coeur de Grande Champagne cognac.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Eating local reduces carbon footprint, waistline...food editor Deborah Pankey files her take on the locavore movement.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

No new content has been posted at New City's Food & Drink section this week.
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Media Digest for the week of November 12, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Risk & reward...continuing The Wine Line, the Tribune's series on wine regions along the 45th parallel, Bill Daley chronicles the rise to greatness of Pinot Noir (and other grapes) in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In Around the world and back, he reveals the inspiration behind the series. Also provided is a reference of local spots where wines of the Willamette Valley can be purchased: Buying the wines.

A sweet endeavor with a social mission...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor checks out Sweet Miss Givings in Edgewater, among other places.

A cornucopia of new health products...nutrition expert Janet Helm investigates a new wave of offerings that contain everything from probiotics to omega-3s, and more.

Slow cooking in the fast lane...in this special to the Tribune, Monica Cass Rogers checks out 1,001 Best Slow-Cooker Recipes, and profiles its author, recipe expert Sue Spitler. Several applicable recipes and tips are linked.

Chicago's newest 'Top Chef' contender...Joe Gray profiles Radhika Desai, the lone Chicago cheftestant in the new season of Bravo's Top Chef, which debuts tonight. Relatedly, a recipe from the Top Chef cookbook, created by former contestants Casey Thompson and Dale Levitski, is posted here.

Sharing a hot cuppa with the Meinls...in this special to the Tribune, Heather Lalley sits down with a few members of the coffee-famous Meinl family, who were in town visiting last week.

Path to perfect popovers...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix provides some guidance and a recipe.

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:

Where's the turkey?...Sandy Thorn Clark provides some tips for cooking a meatless Thanksgiving. Several applicable recipes are provided.

No clowning around for circus chef...Dave Hoekstra profiles chef Michael Vaughn who's responsible for feeding the 300+ person crew of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, 24 hours a day.

Word is finally out on central Mexican sandwich...Lisa Donovan jumps on the Cemitas Puebla bandwagon -- and mentions LTHForum.com in the process.

Catching up with our Top Chef...Misha Davenport catches up with Stephanie Izard, and reports that the Top Chef winner is putting the finishing touches on her upcoming restaurant.

Chicago's Culinary Queens...Stacy Warden profiles a few of Chicago's female chefs who, Warden claims, don't get as much publicity as their male counterparts.

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 November 11 edition:
5 Guys moves in with quiet sizzle...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on yet another burger chain's entry in the Chicago market.

From the November 6 edition:
We're still eating out...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports that in spite of the poor economy, Chicagoans are still eating out.
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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 November 12, 2008

From the November 13 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The Whole Hog Project...LTH contributor Mike Sula wraps up his year and a half-long series on the domestic Mulefoot hogs, as he chronicles the trip to the slaughterhouse and a culminating dinner, which was held at Blackbird back on October 19. A few of the included photos are by yours truly. Also provided are links to video by LTH contributor Mike Gebert documenting the project, a slideshow of the Mulefoots' journey from farm to table and recipes from the chefs for the dishes served at the meal. And, in case you missed any of it, an index of the entire project is also provided.

Eat Local Year-Round...Sam Feldman files the Reader's list of nearby community-supported agriculture programs.

Best New Restaurants of 2008...the aforemetioned Sula gives his picks for the best new restaurants of 2008.
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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 Fontana Grill, a newly-opened Italian joint in Ravenswood with a fairly unique wine concept.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Night of the roundtable...David Tamarkin and the crew at TOC query a group of formidable food pundits, including LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott, for a roundtable discussion on how the internet has affected Chicago's restaurant and foodservice industries.

She's got chops...David Tamarkin interviews chef Radhika Desai of Between, who is participating in Season 5 of Bravo's Top Chef, which debuts tonight.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse touts Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dunkel, which can be found at The Publican.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

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

At the time of this entry, there was no new, locally-originating content posted at New City's web site.
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Media Digest for the week of November 19, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

A feasible feast...Bill Daley provides some sensible advice for easing the burden of preparing the Thanksgiving meal. Punch up the sides advises on how to use easy to find items to boost some traditional side dishes. If getting the bird ready is a mystery to you, Mr. Daley gives solid guidance in Tackling the turkey: 3 ways. Last, but certainly not least, several applicable recipes are linked, including several for easy to prepare turkey glazes.

Dinner at home: Traditions with a twist...JeanMarie Brownson explains how Thanksgiving food traditions gradually evolve. A couple of recipes are also linked.

Tapping into maple syrup...Renee Enna surveys 6 varieties of Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup.

Invite riesling to dinner...Bill Daley says that this versatile grape pairs very well with many traditional Thanksgiving flavors. Tasting notes for several rieslings are also provided.

Hot lines to holiday help...the Good Eating staff compiles a list of valuable Thanksgiving kitchen resources.

Power to the cranberry...Emily Nunn provides a useful primer, filled with interesting facts about cranberries.

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:

How to cook a turkey? Let us count the ways...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes checks in at Butterball University, where she learns that cooking a turkey needn't be complicated at all. Also provided are some charts that list cooking guidelines for many different turkey-cooking methods. Ms. Zeldes also lists Safety tips for cooking turkeys. In Give gravy your all, food editor Janet Rausa Fuller provides some tips for creating successful gravy. Several additional recipes are also linked.

This casserole remains a classic...Lisa Donovan talks up green bean casserole and provides a recipe, as well.

Better way of eating? How Smart!...Sue Ontiveros reports that holiday eating doesn't have to be unhealthy.

A healthy idea, bar none...Julianne Will reports on Element Bars, which creates customized energy bars for its clients in the kitchens at TipsyCake.

Family's love for lasagna no secret...John Caputo, executive chef of A Mano, files this week's At the Chef's Table installment. A recipe for Nonna Caputo's lasagna 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.

From the November 17 edition:

End of the line for famous Choo-Choo restaurant?...Mary Wiseniewski reports that after 57 years, the famous Choo Choo restaurant in Des Plaines may be closed to make room for a new police headquarters.

Upscale coffee chain branching out...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on Lavazza's expansion plans.
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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 November 19, 2008

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

Mojo Working...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula provides an in-depth look at Cafecito in the Loop where, he says, a Lebanese-American actor from Peoria is turning out Chicago’s best Cuban sandwich.

In the Neighborhood...brief reviews of 11 South Loop eateries, some of which are penned by the aforementioned Sula, along with fellow LTHer David Hammond. Kate Schmidt also files.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Main Street Smokehouse, a pellet smoker-based bbq joint ,which is slated to open in January in Libertyville.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

At the time of this entry, the week's new content had not yet been posted at TOC's web site.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Food, fun, drinks, more food at Cooking Expo...food editor Deborah Pankey recaps the Great American Cooking Expo, which took place at Harper College in Palatine last weekend.

Trim the budget, not the Feast...Ms. Pankey reports that "...Thanksgiving doesn't have to be an expensive undertaking."

Cool-weather crops available at local markets...even though farmers' market season is, for the most part, behind us, Deborah Pankey reveals a few sources where cool weather produce can be found.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

King of the Court...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant visits Noodles by Takashi in the food court at Macy's on State Street, where he realizes that while he cannot completely escape his youth, the mall food's much better than it was back then.
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Media Digest for the week of November 24, 2008

Thanksgiving-week Edition

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Countdown to calm...Emily Nunn provides a useful template for preparing the Thanksgiving meal and enjoying oneself. Included is a sample shopping list. Relatedly, several applicable recipes are provided, including one from the Trib's test kitchen for Rosemary scented roast turkey.

Taking stock...in this week's installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan provides instruction on making stock and explains why -- especially this time of year -- it's such a valuable technique to know.

Flexibility equals results...Julie Deardorff seeks out a couple of authorities on nutrition who provide somewhat contrasting views of how to best manage holiday eating.

A haute homecoming...Emily Nunn profiles chef Jose Garces, the driving force behind Mercat a la Planxa.

Chicago deli's Polish fare strikes a culinary chord with Martha Stewart...in this special to the Tribune, Elaine Markoutsas trails Martha Stewart who was recently in toown to promote her new book, Martha Stewart's Cooking School: Lessons and Recipes for the Home Cook.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Leftovers -- best left alone...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller argues convincingly that Thanksgiving leftovers are best when not overly manipulated. In spite of that sage (pun intended) advice, several local food folks -- including LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott -- chime in with their leftover preferences: With leftovers, there is no shortage of recipe ideas.

No sweat -- just reheat...a list of places in town that offer Thanksgiving meals on a carry-out basis.

Spread some love with quince paste...Lisa Donovan sings the praises of this somewhat uncommon fruit paste, which is a great addition to the Thanksgiving table.

Turkey tips to remember...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes follows up her pieces from last week with these additional Thanksgiving tips.

Crust Fund...Jennifer Olvera explains the benefits of encrusting foods, and provides some tips, as well.

Midwest produce takes on international flavor...Hans Lentz, executive chef of Zest, files this week's At the Chef's Table installment. A recipe from chef Lentz for Organic chicken breast and pumpkin coconut curry 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 November 24, 2008

Thanksgiving-week Edition

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

Pork, Oysters, and Beer...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula checks out Province in the West Loop and Martha Bayne visits The Publican on West Fulton.

In the Neighborhood...brief reviews of several Randolph Row eateries, a few of which are penned by the aforementioned Sula.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Dish is taking Thanksgiving week off.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Sweet charity...Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin round up several charity-related food gifts.

Gobble this...Kris Fedor compiles a list of recommended spots in town where Thanksgiving dinner can be found. Both dine-in and carry-out options are listed. Gobble this: Thanksgiving dinner specials lists several more eateries for Thanksgiving fare.

Three-way...Judy Sutton Taylor reports on items that 3 local restaurants have added to their menus to celebrate the Thanksgiving season.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Ethnic flavors give leftovers new life...Deborah Pankey (with some help from AP and a few noted authorities) recommends taking an international approach when it comes to preparing Thanksgiving leftovers. And speaking of Thanksgiving leftovers, Ms. Pankey provides some guidance how best to score some: Doggie bag dos and don'ts

She shares her lessons about life and food...Caroline LeBlanc profiles and interviews Jennifer Lamplough, associate dean and chef instructor at the Robert Morris College Institute of Culinary Arts.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Back Up to Big Buns...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant explains what he likes about Sahara Kabob (formerly known as Big Buns and Pita) in Rogers Park, much to the likely chagrin of the neighborhood's alderman, foie-gras hater Joe Moore.
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Happy Thanksgiving!

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Media Digest for the week of December 3, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

What's the secret behind a winning cookie?...Emily Nunn wraps up this year's Good Eating Holiday Cookie Contest. Several recipes, including the winner -- Baba's cream cheese kolacky -- are linked.

Remaking comfort foods...in this special to the Tribune, Heather Lalley files a detailed, favorable review of Comfort Foods Made Healthy: The Classic Makeover Cookbook, from the editors of EatingWell magazine.

Doable and delish...in this week's Dinner At Home segment, JeanMarie Brownson provides guidance for hosting a cocktail party.

Feasting on the commonplace...Christopher Borrelli takes an appreciative look at the work and distinctive voice of Laurie Colwin.

The rich and tart flavors of beef stroganoff present pairing challenge...Bill Daley explains why this is a tough pairing and provides guidance for making it successfully.

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:

Recipe for good health...Julianne Will explains how certain foods can help keep us healthy during sick season. Several recipes are provided.

Red Bull Cola jolts market...Lisa Donovan takes a look at -- and a taste of -- Red Bull's new product roll-out.

Job is easy to stomach for TV show host...Paige Wiser profiles Adam Richman, host of Man V. Food, which will debut on the Travel Channel tonight.

Chef John Bubala having thyme of his life...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant profiles chef John Bubala, who is currently out of the restaurant trade and enjoying life as a culinary instructor at Kendall College. Also provided are Bubala's stock tips.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, normally 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 December 3, 2008

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

A Home on Devon for Hema’s, “Comfortable Food” in Lincoln Square, and Deleece’s New Sibling...in this week's Reader, Martha Bayne checks out Hema's new digs on Devon Ave, while Anne Spiselman visits a couple of reconcepted spots: Chelsea Grill (nee Erba) in Lincoln Square and Deleece Grill Pub (nee Shochu) in Lakeview.

In the Neighborhood...brief reviews of several Devon Avenue eateries, penned -- in part -- by LTHers Mike Sula, Gary Wiviott, David Hammond and Kristina Meyer, among 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 preview Branch 27, a "120-seat American bistro in the old 27th Ward library" on West Chicago Avenue, which is slated to open in mid to late-January.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

If cross-dressing bakers are your holiday tradition, be sure to check out Upper crust, in which Jason A. Heidemann profiles Bertha Mason, aka Michael Bowen.

Sweet smarts...in this month-old piece, which just found its way to TOC's web site, Julia Kramer, Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin track down the city's best desserts.

In Blast from the past | 1978, Heather Shouse spotlights Sabatino's and David Tamarkin showcases Les Nomades.

In What to drink now, David Tamarkin assays the Guild Meeting punch at the Drawing Room and the 2006 Bota Box Merlot.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef: Seasonal products influence his dishes...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Lake Villa native Jeff Mauro who's the new executive chef at Powerhouse Restaurant in Chicago. A recipe from chef Mauro for Striped Bass with Celery Root, Italian Greens & Roasted Beet Relish is also provided.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Parlez-Brew Francais?: Bières de France hits the U.S....in a linked piece at BoozeMuse.com, Ernest Barteldes previews the new wave of French beers coming into the U.S.
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Media Digest for the week of December 10, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The gift of cooking...the Tribune staff presents their favorite food books of 2008, broken into a few categories . . .

Spanish flavors and Italian inspiration by Joe Gray.

Wrapped in comfort and A world of good taste by Emily Nunn.

Bake-o-rama! and Recipe bonanza by Renee Enna.

Media stars and Simply seafood by food editor Carol Mighton Haddix.

Information, please, Expert advice and Speaking out on wine by Bill Daley.

Also provided are several applicable recipes and a photo gallery containing images of More favorite cookbooks of 2008.
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Winter whites...nutrition expert Janet Helm discusses the nutritional benefits of various white winter vegetables, including cauliflower, parsnips and celeriac, among others.

Beer of the month: Goose Island Christmas Ale...Jerald O'Kennard showcases this local brew in his Beer of the Month installment.

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:

Tattered & treasured...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller rounds up some of the Sun Times staff members' favorite all-time cookbooks. A few applicable recipes are also provided.

Haute chocolate hits all right notes...Lisa Donovan checks out the seasonally offered Haute Chocolate at the 4 Seasons, which was inspired by the 2000 film Chocolat.

Food editor pens 10 ways to heaven...the aforementioned Ms. Fuller profiles Sheila Lukins who was recently in town to promote her newest book: Ten: All the Foods We Love and 10 Recipes for Each.

Nifty giftys...once again, ubiquitous food editor Janet Rausa Fuller files, this time with a list of gift suggestions for food lovers.

Sugar-coated pastry makes season bright...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, Laura Cid Perea, chef and owner of Bombon Cafe, shares some holiday memories and provides a recipe for Bunuelito de la abuelita.

That cheap burger might cost you more than $...Monifa Thomas reports that "Jack in the Box's junior bacon cheeseburger has been ranked the unhealthiest 'value menu' item offered by a fast food chain, according to the Cancer Project."

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, normally 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 December 10, 2008

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

Mmmm, Books...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula provides his picks for the best food books of the season.

Cooks With Books...brief reviews of several spots in town which also have cookbooks or recipes that appear in compendiums. Bylines here include LTHers Gary Wiviott and David Hammond, as well as Martha Bayne and others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack report that 3-year-old Copperblue in Lake Point Tower will close and that 7-month-old Haussmann Brasserie in Northfield will reconcept itself as JP Tavern and re-open in early 2009.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

100 best things we ate and drank in 2008 (in no particular order)...food editor Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin chronicle their year in eating. Also available are a downloadable .pdf version of the list and pictures of some of the dishes that appear on the list.

Secret scene...on the 75th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition, David Tamarkin helps distinguish between genuine speakeasies and the wannabees. Also posted is Secrets revealed, in which Tamarkin and Stephanie Dolan list a few local spots that are evocative of the Prohibition era. In Speakeasy to me, Heather Shouse recounts her brief moment as an ersatz bootlegger.

Three-way...David Tamarkin reports on what 3 local chefs are doing with candying.

The hot seat...chef Chris Pandel of The Bristol straps in this week.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse recommends Trappistes Rochefort 6, 8 and 10.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

There was no new, locally-originating content posted at the Herald's web site at the time of this posting.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Gabbin’ with Gras...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant chats with chef Laurent Gras, the driving force behind L20, arguably the most successful restaurant to bow in Chicago this year.
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Media Digest for the week of December 17, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Christmas, in a nutshell...Emily Nunn reminds us that in addition to their traditional part in holiday fare, nuts are especially in vogue this year. Several applicable recipes are provided. Relatedly, in this week's Prep School segment, James P. DeWan provides instructions on how to properly chop nuts. Also provided in the 'nut cluster' are some Nutty facts on nuts, provided by Ms. Nunn and Nuts: By the numbers.

Latke cook-off...in this special to the Tribune, Heather Lalley recaps the first-ever Latke Battle, which took place at the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies last Sunday. Recipes for the 2 winning entrants are provided.

Beef tenderloin: The go-to roast for the holidays...JeanMarie Brownson talks up tenderloin and provides a recipe for its preparation, as well.

Falling for Ina Garten, all over again...Emily Nunn recaps Ms. Garten's recent visit to town, during which she promoted her newest cookbook, Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics. A couple of recipes from the book are provided.

Brunello's big flavor...Bill Daley reports that Brunello is recovering -- slowly but surely -- from its authenticity scandal of last spring. Tasting notes for 4 different bottles of 2003 brunello di Montalcino are included.

Taking corkscrews for a spin...Bill Daley reviews a few corkscrews that are currently available on the market.

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

Sweet, savory and sublime...Jennifer Olvera reports on chocolate's notable value and versatility in cooking. Recipes from several local chefs (who are quoted in the piece) are provided.

Sweet on students...Julianne Will reports on the ongoing, 2-day courses at the Chocolate Academy which was opened this fall by Zurich, Switzerland-based chocolate manufacturer Barry Callebaut.

Pretty as panettone...Lisa Donovan profiles Chicago baker -- and panettone maven -- Nella Ferrara Davy, owner of Ferrara Bakery on Taylor Street.

Test your chops...Misha Davenport checks out several cooking simulation video games.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, normally 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 December 17, 2008

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

The Bread and Water Business...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles Arkady Kats who got out of the home-building business last year and -- with his wife Rita -- opened Bread ’n’ Bowl Company in Niles.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby praise the arancini at 6-week-old Monticchio in Uptown.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Best NYE eats...Heather Shouse selects a few choice spots for New Year's Eve dining.

Get into the spirits...Heather Shouse and David Tarmarkin identify their top 10 libations for the holiday season.

Flavor of the (next 12) months...David Tamarkin attempts to predict some of 2009's culinary trends.

Save this restaurant...Heather Shouse contends that Shokolad in Ukrainian Village needs and deserves our love.

Three-way...Heather Shouse reports on what 3 local chefs are currently doing with juniper.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Fired up over chestnuts...food editor Deborah Pankey checks in with a few local chefs regarding chestnut roasting and the culinary holiday traditions that accompany it. Several recipes are provided.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Loafin’ Around...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out the newly opened Meatloaf Bakery, where he says the goods are right up there with some "mom" versions.
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Media Digest for the week of December 21, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The craft of the cocktail...Bill Daley reports on the growing, local cocktail culture and chats with a few local authorities on the subject. Additionally, several recipes are provided.

Realistic advice for feeding kids...Emily Nunn checks out the new book Real Food for Healthy Kids and chats with its authors, Tracey Seaman and Tanya Wenman Steel. A recipe from the book for mini-Cuban sandwiches is also provided.

Putting flavor back into pork...in this special to the Tribune, Amelia Levin reports on the fortunate backlash against super lean pork.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Homemade holiday...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes reports on the growing popularity of home-made Christmas gifts. Several recipes for food-based gifts are provided, as is a useful list of Last-minute gift ideas.

Magi beer not quite fit for a king...Lisa Donovan checks out the seasonal Gift of the Magi ale, which is available at select outlets in Chicagoland.

A season of dining discounts...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports on the current preponderance of dining deals being offered throughout the area. Additionally, Ms. Fuller pens Restaurants hit hard by economy serve up dining deals.

Roasted hazelnuts a warm wintery treat...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, Tony Priolo, chef and owner of Piccolo Sogno, reminisces about one of his childhood holiday favorites and provides instructions on how to make them.

Say cheese ball...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller talks up the cheese ball, which is especially practical in these trying times. A couple of applicable recipes are provided, as well.

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

From the December 19 edition:
Wiener's Circle closed by Health Department...Kara Spak reports the details.

From the December 18 edition:
Jamba Juice joins oatmeal bandwagon...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on Jamba Juice's recent oatmeal roll-out.
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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 December 21, 2008

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

2008 on My Tongue...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula lists his favorite dishes of 2008, including baby seal confit at Crib
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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 Tomboy in Andersonville closed this week after an 11-year run, spurred by an offer from rival Hamburger Mary's, which will be expanding into Tomboy's vacated space.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

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

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

Chewin' on Chickpea...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant hopes that newcomer Chickpea will defy the odds and make a go of it.
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Media Digest for the week of December 28, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

10 take a bow...the Good Eating crew -- and food editor Carol Mighton Haddix -- rounds up and reprints their favorite recipes of 2008.

Eat this with that: How food works in tandem to boost nutrition...Julie Deardorff reports on how "eating certain foods in tandem helps the body absorb nutrients more readily."

Spirited send-offs to 2008...Joe Gray makes some recommendations for New Year's Eve libations.

12 ways to forget ... or remember...Bill Daley recounts his 12 highest rated wines of 2008.

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

Feel-good food: The best of 2008...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller lists the Sun Times' 10 favorite recipes of 2008.

Winter's chill, straight up...Seanan Forbes consults local mixologists to get their input on seasonal libations. Recipes for some components are linked, as is a list of preferred ingredients.

Bubbly to fit your budget...Lisa Donovan extols the virtues of Spanish Cava.

Art of the biscuit...renowned chef Art Smith pens this week's At The Chef's Table segment and provides a recipe for his Love Biscuits.

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

From the December 29 edition:
Sweet eats: Restaurants serve up bonus-stuffed gift cards to combat slump...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on what several restaurants chains are doing to incent gift card sales during this holiday season.
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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 December 28, 2008

What's New...the Reader kicks off the new year, appropriately enough, with reviews of a few newer spots. LTH contributor Mike Sula checks out Eve, Antica Pizzeria and Steve's Deli. Anne Spiselman reviews Chickpea.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Dish is off this week for the holidays.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Cowpooling...Lisa Shames explains how a growing number of local food-focused folks are teaming up to purchase entire cows from local farmers.

The hot seat...this week, Barry Sorkin of Smoque BBQ 'wiggles' a bit and then straps in.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Son reinvents Duke's to suit his passion for local ingredients...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Zak Dolezal, chef and general manager of the reinvented Duke's Alehouse and Kitchen in Crystal Lake.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Resolutions for Culinary Revolution...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant presents some well-reasoned and amusing suggestions that, if followed, would make 2009 a better year, culinarily speaking.

Newcity's Top 5 of Everything 2008: Food & Drink...Nagrant rounds up his Top 5 in several food categories and Scoop Jackson list his Top 5 Best Drinks.
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Media Digest for the week of January 7, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Supermarket superheroes: Thrifty choices for the cook...Emily Nunn kicks off the new year by reminding us that even though food costs are expected to continue upward in 2009 (albeit slower than in 2008), there are still plenty of ways to eat cheaply -- and well. Relatedly, Ms. Nunn lays out some way to use the internet to keep food costs down in Surfing for bargains. Several recipes for wholesome and inexpensive dishes are also provided.

Bill Daley: Where to look for a low-price wine...in keeping with the frugality theme, Bill Daley -- along with a few local, wine-industry folks -- advises on sourcing quality, lower-cost wines. He also provides a list of -- and tasting notes for -- Four worthy wines that cost $10 or less.

Countdown to better health...nutrition expert Janet Helm predicts 10 food and nutrition trends for 2009, many of which center on cost, health benefits and the environment.

States take on olive oil industry...Monica Eng reports that some states are enacting definitive regulations for olive oil labeling, in order to prevent fraud. She also consults some experts who provide advice to help prevent consumers from being duped when purchasing it.

Beer of the month: Salvator Doppelbock...Jerald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

Cupcake boutique opens in Loop...Susan Taylor files this special about Sugar Bliss Cake Boutique, which bowed on January 5.

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

In praise of puddings...Jennifer Olvera touts puddings of all kinds, citing their deliciousness and their relatively low cost to make. Several recipes are provided.

Not all oats are created equal...Lisa Donovan explains that oats are healthy and identifies a couple of places in town that are cooking with them. A recipe for Oatmeal-Buttermilk Pancakes is also provided.

Will cassava be Oprah's next favorite thing?...Stefano Esposito speculates on why Oprah might love cassava.

Home cooking a resolution that's clearly in focus...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports on several strategies and techniques that people will use to help them eat better and more healthfully in 2009.

Tiki time...Dave Hoekstra checks out the new Trader Vic's on N. State Street. Also provided are a recipe for Trader Vic's poke, a piece on the origin of the Mai Tai -- Sorting through a cocktail conundrum -- and a video with interviews and a mai tai demo.

Ladies, raise your glasses...Chuck Sudo profiles and interviews Sonja Kassebaum, founder of the Chicago chapter of Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails. A couple of applicable recipes are provided.

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

From the January 2 edition:
Taking a bite (or a sip) out of winter's chill...Jennifer Olvera highlights several area foods and beverages that can help offset winter's nastiness.

Will Starbucks fit you to a tea?...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that, among other things, Starbucks will focus more on teas to help boost sagging sales.

From the December 31, 2008 edition:
Health kick...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that Kraft will roll-out some new concepts to help take advanage of consumers' seasonal focus on healthfulness.

New owner picks up crumbs...Sandra Guy reports on the new owner's plans for the Maurice Lenell brand.
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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 7, 2009

From the January 8 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Hops Dreams...in this week's Reader, Martha Bayne reports that "after ten years and innumerable roadblocks, Handlebar’s Josh Deth has finally broken ground on his brewpub."

On Tap...brief reviews of "eleven restaurants with good beer lists," with contributions by, among others, LTHers Mike Sula and Kristina Meyer.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Alinea Jr....in this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that the Alinea braintrust is working on another restaurant -- this one in conjunction with chef John Peters, who worked with chef Achatz at Trio and helped open Alinea.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Taste Quest: Bridgeview...LTH contributor Mike Gebert rounds up some of the best eats in Bridgeview.

The hit list: Fireside beverages...Heather Shouse identifies 5 local bars that offer fireside beverage service. And in this related piece, which I apparently missed back in November, David Tamarkin names 5 local bars where the view alone might be worth the visit.

Top nosh...David Tamarkin endorses the man doo jeon gol at Korean Seoulfood Café.

Three-way...Heather Shouse reports on what 3 local spots are currently doing with sarsaparilla.

Oeno files...David Tamarkin highlights Free Run Cellars in Baroda, Michigan, whose wines are available at Sam's Wines.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Home cooking, discipline leads to slimmer waistline...an unnamed writer profiles Carol Stream resident Rick Gieser, who hopes to lose 50 more pounds in 2009, after losing 50 in 2008.

Tips and tricks for keeping your New Year's resolution...Don Mauer provides tips for keeping food-related new year's resolutions.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

I ’Que...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant profiles BBQ maven Barry Sorkin of wildly successful Smoque BBQ on N. Pulaski.
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Media Digest for the week of January 14, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Obama Fest! A party menu of global proportions...Bill Daley reports on all the different food themes that are in-play at an Obama Inauguration Celebration. Several recipes are provided. Mr. Daley also advises on What to drink at your inauguration party and provides some Wine suggestions for soon-to-be President Obama. Relatedly, noted food historian Andrew F. Smith (who has several Chicago connections), explores The history of presidential inauguration parties.

Dinner at Home: Meeting winter's produce challenge...JeanMarie Brownson provides some options and a few recipes, as well.

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:

Yes, she can (cook)...Lynne Marek profiles current White House executive chef Cristeta Comerford who, despite rampant speculation to the contrary, will be staying on after Barack Obama takes office. Also provided is a peek at the inaugural menu, as well as a glimpse at Presidential palates online, provided by food editor Janet Rausa Fuller.

Not too cold for this berry...Lisa Donovan touts the huckleberry, which has been appearing lately on a few menus around town.

Old Style going old school...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that Old Style is going back to -- you guessed it -- krausening fermentation.

So you wanna be a barista?...Jerry Soverinsky checks out Intelligentsia's barista training program and includes a few pointers directly from the source.

Sauerkraut rounds out signature dish...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, Patrick Sheerin, chef at Signature Room at the 95th, sings the praises of choucroute garni and provides his recipe for Braised Sauerkraut.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional food-industry news, normally 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 January 14, 2009

From the January 15 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Caterer to the Keralites...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles William George and his Royal Malabar Catering, which is located in Glenview.

Devon and Beyond...brief reviews of 15 local Indian eateries, with several penned by -- among others -- the aforementioned Sula, as well as fellow LTHers Gary Wiviott and David Hammond.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Dennis Rodkin (where are Pollack and Ruby?) reports (via Crain's) that after 4 years, Blue Water Grilled has closed.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Chain think...David Tamarkin rebels against the current influx of national burger chains in Chicago by listing a few local spots that he believes are ready for export.

Blast from the past: 1933
Cape Cod Room, Bruna's Ristorante...David Tamarkin and Heather Shouse (respectively) check out these 2 old-skool eateries, which they report are both still going strong.

The beer geek...in this week's installment, Heather Shouse embraces the Norwegian Wood from Norway's Haand Bryggeriet.

The hot seat...The Publican's Brian Huston straps in this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

What local chefs would serve President Obama, if they could...food editor Deborah Pankey checks in with local chefs to find out what they'd serve at the Inaugural Meal. Featured, among other local notable chefs, are Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris of Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook.

'Check, Please!' to air lost Obama episode...Ms. Pankey reports that WTTW will air the now infamous, never-before-aired episode on January 16.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Sandwich Safari...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant overcomes some personal demons, treks out to the suburbs and decides that the 'debris' sandwich at fRedhots and Fries in Glenview is better than the New Orleans original.
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