Media Digest for the week of August 5, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

'Julie & Julia' sparks renewed interest in the life of Julia Child...Bill Daley reports on how the new movie has rekindled interest in this American culinary icon. In Julia & Chicago, Mr. Daley highlights some of Ms. Child's Chicago connections, and some great, vintage photos are included. Several of Julia's recipes are also provided.

Versatile cucumbers work in soups or appetizers...in this seasonally appropriate piece, Judy Hevrdejs provides a useful primer and several applicable recipes.

Stretch your steak dollar by topping salad with sirloin...JeanMarie Brownson makes a case for adding this inexpensive protein to salad. Recipes are provided.

Chef from Spain is king of the sweets...Monica Eng interviews renowned Spanish pastry chef Francisco Torreblanca, who was in town recently to teach a master class at the French Pastry School.

Growing interest in 'green' wine...Bill Daley explores this rapidly-growing segment of the wine market and provides a glossary of terms, too. Also provided is a list of Green wine competition winners.

New Andersonville farmers market...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor visits and reports this new market on Berwyn Avenue.

Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews some of the upcoming week's beverage events.

Review of classic summery weiss beer...in his Beer of the Month column, Jerald O'Kennard checks out Grieskirchner Weisse.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Hungry for a new career? Lots trying the French Pastry School...Denise I. O'Neal reports that admidst the current economic tumult, several career changers are enrolling at this respected Chicago institution. Several photographs are provided.

No waffling in passion for this anytime breakfast item...Lisa Donovan explores the enduring popularity of waffles.

Our annual cooking school guide...with the start of the traditional school year just a few weeks away, the Sun Times provides their annual index.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings can be found here.

From the August 4 edition:
Loafing around on bake-cation...travel editor Lori Rackl visits Zingerman's Bakehouse in Ann Arbor, MI, where classes are offered.

From the July 30 edition:
Organic not all that, nutrition study reveals...Monifa Thomas reports on the findings of a recent study which revealed no significant nutrtional differences between organic and conventional products. The study did not consider the effects of pesticides, rendering it essentially useless.

Subduing the wild Animal at Sarkis' Cafe...in this reprint from the Pioneer Press, Irv Leavitt visits the legendary eatery in Evanston and takes on the "animal" version of their Loretta sandwich.
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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 5, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

A Caribbean Rarity...LTH contributor Mike Sula delivers a thoroughly-researched, in-depth look at Chicago's only Garifuna restaurant, Garifuna Flava, in Maquette Park.
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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 after just 4 months at the helm, chef Pete Balodimas will be leaving Quince and heading to Phoenix.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Green City, black market...Lisa Shames reveals a few 'by request only' that can be had at various farmers' markets around town.

Trending: Popsicles...Julia Kramer takes a look at this hot trend and provides a recipe from Catherine Miller, pastry chef at Takashi.

Bites & benders...a listing of some of the week's eating and drinking events.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

There's no new, locally-originating content at the Herald's site this week but there are a few AP pieces about Julia Child and her profound influence on American culinary culture.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

A Tortilla Tale: St. Jude delivers the goods at Carbon...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant sings the praises of Carbon, in Pilsen.
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Media Digest for the week of August 12, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

Chicago area cooking classes...the Tribune's annual index, alphabetized by category.

Learning to cook more cheaply...in this special to the Tribune, Jennifer Day consults some culinary instructors for tips.

Mother and son, fish and wine...Bill Daley gets an updated pairing recommendation from wine expert Evan Goldstein for his mother's (Joyce Goldstein) Moroccan Fish Roast. The recipe is included. In Matching wines to one Moroccan fish recipe, Mr. Daley gets pairing advice from several other noted sommeliers.

Review of 'Jam it, Pickle it, Cure it'...Barbara Mahany files this favorable review of a Jam it, Pickle it, Cure it: And Other Cooking Projects, by bay area-based author Karen Solomon.

Calendar...Elizabeth Schiele previews some of the upcoming week's food events.

From the August 11 edition:
Ice cream shop gets licked...Barbara Brotman reports on the minor skirmish between Scooter's Frozen Custard in Lakeview and the City of Chicago, regarding some outdoor seating that appears to have not been approved through proper channels.

From the August 10 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Julia Child...with Julie & Julia now in theaters, LTHer Catherine Lambrecht reflects warmly on her admiration for Julia Child, and her body of accomplishments.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

The big chill: Refreshing summer soups...Seanan Forbes checks in with several noted local chefs for insights on what makes these soups so wonderful. Several recipes are included.

Dynamite soul food blossoms from family roots...Dave Hoekstra reports on how the joy of food brought two long lost cousins together. The reuinted cousins plan to open a a soul food/Caribbean restaurant and coffee shop in Hyde Park next year.

Latin corn snack in midst of a makeover...Lisa Donovan tracks elote's move to the culinary mainstream.

Ingredients that get no respect...Kristine Subido, chef at Wave in the W Lakeshore Hotel, discusses a few unsung heroes. A recipe for chef Subido's Quick Celery and Fennel Salad is included.

Cheese bath defeats purpose of healthy dish...Misha Davenport explains what he did to the cauliflower she received in his CSA box. His recipe for Cauliflower au Gratin is included.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage, compiled by Neil Steinberg. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings, compiled by Lisa Lenoir, can be found here.

From the August 6 edition:
Here's the beef, all 4.5 pounds...in a reprint from the Pioneer Press, Irv Leavitt chronicles his recent trip to Bertucci's Italian Steakhouse in Highwood, where he and couple friends took on the vaunted 72 oz. porterhouse steak. A photoset is included.

Guys' club evolves into large-scale 'meat'ing...in this reprint from the Norridge-Harwood Heights News, Craig A. Whitney checks out Man B Que, a social networking club that convenes monthly over craft beers and good food.
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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 12, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

Good to the Last Drip...LTH contributor Mike Sula checks out Asado Coffee Company in Wrigleyville and its passionate owner, Kevin Ashtari, for whom drip-brewing perfect coffee is a loving obsession.

The Local Joe...brief reviews of 15 neighborhood coffee shops, with submissions by the aforementioned Sula as well as LTHer Mike Gebert, Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne, 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 long-time industry veteran Joseph Calabrese, owner of Zia's Trattoria in Edison Park, has opened Café Touché, a French eatery, also in Edison Park.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The artisan: Kevin Ashtari...not to be outdone by The Reader's Sula, Ryan Bartelmay profiles a man truly empassioned by the pursuit of his craft.

Market share...Julia Kramer checks out the pattypan squash from Harvest Moon Farms in Viroqua, Wisconsin, which is available at the Uncommon Ground farmers’ market.

Under the influence...David Tamarkin reports on the inspirations behind a few iconic 'Chicago' dishes.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Inns treat guests to homemade breakfasts...food editor Deborah Pankey praises the newly-released Illinois Bed & Breakfast Cookbook, edited by Becky LeJeune. Several recipes from the book are included.

Chef's credo: Let fresh ingredients do the talking...Ms. Pankey profiles and interviews chef Peter Saletta of Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar in Lincolnshire. Chef's recipe for Sea Scallops with Orzo Pilaf is included.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Meal Fit for a President: Destination Calypso Cafe...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that Calypso Café in Hyde Park -- a favorite of President Obama -- might be the neighborhood's first true destination restaurant.
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Media Digest for the week of August 19, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

Organic foods: Big companies swoop in to capitalize on lucrative market...Steve Mills explains that behind the organic label are the same huge corporations that populate the conventional aisles in grocery stores, and that the foods they sell aren't necessarily local or even domestic.

Portuguese piri-piri sauce perfect for grilled foods...in this special to the Tribune, multiple Beard Award-winner David Leite, who's spent quite a bit of time in Portugal, provides some history and a recipe.

Obsessing over fresh produce...JeanMarie Brownson provides a couple of productive solutions (aka recipes) for harnessing her obsession, which many of us share.

Chef turns to his comfort food: Noodles...Bill Daley profiles chef Takashi Yagihashi and his newly released cookbook, Takashi's Noodles. A recipe from the book for chilled udon with heirloom tomatoes and ratatouille is provided.

Tips for packing school lunchboxes...with the school year about to begin (ugh!), Monica Eng provides some useful, trade-preventive guidance. Several recipes are included.

Red-pepper tomato sauce is from "FitDelicious"...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix excerpts a recipe from this self-published cookbook by local author Marcia Schurer.

Getting to know the lively Quincy...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley provides a primer on the offerings from this tiny region, which is located in the Loire Valley.

Local food events, Local wine and beer events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.

From the August 17 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Wonton Express Is Wonderful With Noodles...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht says the noodles are the thing at Wonton Express in Riverwoods.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Red hot: 50 juicy ways to enjoy summer's tomatoes...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller waxes poetic about tomatoes, one of the local glories of August and then goes all 'Paul Simon' on us by providing 50 ways to enjoy them. Several photos and recipes are included.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage, compiled by Laura Berman. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings 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 19, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

Dark Roast, With a Whiff of Anarchy...Martha Bayne profiles and interviews entrepreneur and social activist David Meyers, the force behind Resistance Coffee, which Meyers runs out of his Union Pier, MI farm and a northwest side garage owned by a friend.

Rise and Shine...brief reviews of 19 breakfast spots in town, with submissions by LTHers Mike Sula, Gary Wiviott and David Hammond, as well as Kate Schmidt and the aforementioned Martha Bayne, among others.
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Posted at Chicago Public Radio's site this week:

Eating Sustainable Seafood in Chicago...LTHer David Hammond interviews several local industry professionals and experts, and gets to the heart of the matter.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby check in with LTHer Eddie Lakin (aka elakin) and preview his upcoming Edzo’s Burger Shop, which is scheduled to open next month in Evanston.

The Best Burgers in Chicago...Jeff Ruby ranks his top 30, with some interesting inclusions and exclusions. Ruby humorously recounts what the burger vetting process did to him in Burgers Made Me Dumb.

The Food Desert...Jennifer Wehunt points out some rather large areas in Chicagoland where access to healthy food is difficult, at best and tries to analyze why it is the case.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

XOCO's chocolate...in this photo-essay, David Tamarkin and Martha Williams explain how chocolate will be made from raw beans at Rick Bayless' upcoming streetfood joint.

Chicago’s best new burgers...Julia Kramer lists 5 not to miss.

Savory ice...Ms. Kramer checks out the tuna 'snow' at L20.

Life Line Tropical Island Cuisine & Juice...Heather Shouse checks out this new spot in Rogers Park, the burgeoning chain's third outpost in town -- and first on the north side.

The hot seat...Art Smith straps in this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

School lunch as easy as 1, 2, 3 ... with a little preparation...food editor Deborah Pankey lays out some tips, which will come into play in the next few days. Several recipes are included.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

At the time of this entry, no new content had been posted this week at NewCity's site. Please, check back later for updates.
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Media Digest for the week of August 26, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

How to create a paella party...Judy Hevrdejs reports the details and provides sources for ingredients and supplies, as well as a recipe. Relatedly, a Guide to the many types of rice is also posted.

Little tricks speed dinner to table...JeanMarie Brownson provides a few, along with a couple applicable recipes.

Why you should chill that wine...in this installment of Uncorked, Bill Daley explains the importance of temperature control when it comes to wine.

Book Review: Vefa's Kitchen...Bill Daley files a brief, favorable review of this bible of Greek cooking by noted expert Vefa Alexiadou.

Straightforward facts on dietary fat and health...in this special to the Tribune, registered dietitian David Feder explains that in spite of its bad reputation, dietary fat is a critical component of our diets.

Local wine and beer events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's beverage events.

From the August 24 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Heirloom Recipes Prized at State Fair...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht describes her experience as a judge of dishes based on heirloom recipes at the recently-held Illinois State Fair. A recipe for the 3rd place winner -- Grandmother's Yeast Donuts -- is provided.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Fresh start: For WIC families, cooking classes are step to healthier lifestyle...Dave Hoekstra reports on the newly-expanded food package available to participants in the federal WIC program, which serves " . . . low-income pregnant women, new mothers and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk." Several recipes taught in the program are included.

Cafes for worthy causes allow purposeful eating...Lisa Donovan checks out a few places in town where there's a cause behind the cuisine.

Setting up a chicken coop in your yard? Do homework...chef Paul Virant of Vie Restaurant in Western Springs explains why this growing trend meshes perfectly with his philosophy on eating locally. Chef Virant's recipe for Creamy 'backyard' hen eggs, creme fraiche, chives, fried bread, arugula is included.

Upscale dining 'possible' at theme parks...Mike Thomas previews tonight's episode of Dinner: Impossible, which was shot at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee.

Cucumber salad still needs Star treatment...Misha Davenport continues his CSA Box chronicles. His recipe for Cucumber Salad is provided.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings can be found here.

From the August 25 edition:
KFC tests new sandwich with 'bun' of fried chicken...Art Golab reports on this new concoction from KFC, which reportedly weighs in at over 1,200 calories.

From the August 21 edition:
Taste Rick Bayless' winning dishes...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports that Rick Bayless' winning menu from Top Chef Masters will be offered at Frontera Grill for a limited time. A Sun Times editorial also lauds the celebrated chef.

From the August 20 edition:
Que bueno! Bayless named the 'Master'...Ms. Fuller reports on Rick Bayless' win on Top Chef Masters.

Jamba Juice juicing up menu -- with food...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that the struggling chain will roll out a food menu at 18 Chicago locations this week.

Ogilvie train station offers French taste...Sandra Guy previews this upcoming multi-retailer market, which is slated to open in October.
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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.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of August 26, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

What's New...LTH contributor Mike Sula scouts Cibo Matto in the Wit Hotel and Jam in Ukrainian Village while Anne Spiselman provides early data on The Terrace at Trump.

New Too...brief reviews of 10 additional new spots in town, with submissions by the aforementioned Sula and Spiselman, along with additional contributions by LTHer David Hammond, as well as Kate Schmidt and Julia Thiel.
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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 Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris -- the team behind Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook -- will open a second restaurant, called Prairie Fire, in the old Powerhouse space at 215 N. Clinton. The opening is slated for November.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The Love connection...Heather Shouse profiles and interviews restaurateur Quentin Love, who owns 9 restaurants on the South Side.

Eating her words...Ruth Welte chronicles her first dinner with the Chopsticks Dining Club, which is led by a native Chinese speaker who does the ordering.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

New labels help consumers sort out nutrition facts - sort of...food editor Deborah Pankey reports that some food manufacturers have already rolled out the new Smart Choices labels on their packaging but that the new designation is not without problems.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Gaucho Style: Meyer’s Castle Rodizio brings the Argentinian spirit to life...Chris Chandler checks out this meat haven in Dyer, IN.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of August 26, 2009

Posted this week at Dining Chicago's web site...

A new weekly series -- Eat This! -- penned by LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes, is now running at Dining Chicago's web site. Links to the first 2 entries in the series appear below . . .

Eat this! Crostata di frutti di bosco, Tuscan berry tart...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes checks out the Crostata di frutti di bosco from chef Chris Macchia at Coco Pazzo. A recipe is included.

Eat this! Granola: A hippie staple from the Woodstock era...Ms. Zeldes chats with The Chicago Diner's chef, Kim Gracen, and gets her recipe for The Chicago Diner's granola.
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Media Digest for the week of September 2, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

Choosing wines for that Labor Day grill-out...Bill Daley relays recommendations made by some of his followers on Twitter and Facebook.

Beer of the Month: Samuel Smith's Organic Cider...Jerald O'Kennard recommends this golden amber cider and idenitfies a few places around town where it is available.

Dried to perfection...in this special to the Tribune, Margaret Sheridan reports on the methods used by several local chefs for drying their tomato bounty this time of year. Recipes from a few of the chefs surveyed in the piece are included.

The new 'in' flavor? Hibiscus...Judy Hevrdejs reports on the growing popularity of this floral flavor.

Local bakery specializes in Iraqi flatbreads...a profile of Eastern Breadstone Bakery on Devon Avenue, and its owner Eddie Abada (no byline in the electronic or print editions).

New guide helps identify Illinois' wild mushrooms...Monica Eng checks out the new book, Edible Wild Mushrooms of Illinois and Surrounding States, and interviews is authors, local mycologists Joe McFarland and Gregory Mueller.

Calendar...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food events.

Family recipes star at Taste of Melrose Park...in this special to the Tribune, LTHer David Hammond waxes poetic about the annual event, which has become a favorite of his. This year's installment takes place this coming weekend.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Happy meals: Steering kids through battlefield of food allergies...Anupy Singla reports on how food allergies have changed the landscape when it comes to school lunches. Among those interviewed in the piece is chef -- and Kendall College instructor -- John Bubala. Several applicable recipes are provided.

Breathe in -- and enjoy Red Kiva Lounge cocktail...Lisa Donovan inhales -- literally -- the VaporTini at this West Loop lounge.

Kid's smoothie recipe pays off...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that Anthony Davis Jr. will have his contest-winning recipe served to 10,000 people today at Wrigley Field.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings can be found here.

Easy does it with risotto...Misha Davenport files his weekly 'cooking from her CSA box' update, which includes a recipe for Tomato and Kale Risotto.
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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 2, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

The Two-Car Taqueria...LTH contributor Mike Sula reports from an undisclosed location in the southwest suburbs, where a family has turned their garage into an underground taqueria, which operates on weekends.
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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 the upcoming bar/taqueria from Terry Alexander and the group behind Blackbird, Avec and Publican.

Sweet Dreams...Joanne Trestrail compiles a list of 'the original comfort zones,' old school bakeries.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Trending: Corn Dogs...David Tamarkin checks out the current trend of upscale corn dogs and identifies a few places in town that are turning them out.

The indiscreet charm of the weekday lunch...Julia Kramer says that lunch doesn't always get the respect it deserves, and she lists several places that she feels do it justice.

Fall Restaurant Preview
Heather Shouse, David Tamarkin and the TOC staff preview several upcoming openings, including Belly Shack from Bill Kim, the as yet unnamed Bar/Taqueria from the Blackbird group and The Purple Pig from Jimmy Bannos. Several other openings are previewed, as well.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Local fruits, vegetables pour into cocktails...food editor Deborah Pankey checks out this growing trend. Several applicable recipes from local chefs are also provided.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Panzanella: Ripe tomatoes turn stale bread into manna...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets a seasonally appropriate recipe for panzanella from chef Kevin Provenzano of Carlucci.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

At the time of this entry, no new content had been posted this week at NewCity's site. Please, check back later for updates.
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Media Digest for the week of September 9, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

'Rugelach Man' launches Jewish pastry Web site...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles and interviews Leon Greenberg, a former mortgage banker, who turned his passion for cooking into a catering and online rugelach business called therugelahman.com.

Tofu muscles its versatile way onto dinner table...JeanMarie Brownson provides a couple of recipes for this ingredient, which continues to grow in popularity.

Rachael Ray stars in a Chicago kick-off to new TV season...in this special to the Tribune, Margaret Sheridan recaps Rachael Ray's recent visit to Wrigleyville during which she held a big party that was taped as part of the kick-off episode of her show's new season.

Editor shares satisfactions of eating alone...Judy Hevrdejs files a brief, favorable review of The Pleasures of Cooking for One, by Judith Jones.

Local food events, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Ambassadors for ancient drink offer exper-teas to consumers...Thomas Conner visits Tea Extravaganza 2009, a recent tea tasting at the Palm Court of the Drake Hotel. Profiled in the piece is Rodrick Markus, proprietor of the Rare Tea Cellar, which is based in Chicago. Included is a list of Local tea events and meetups.

Charming Chicago with churros...Lisa Donovan checks out the churros at Xoco -- Rick Bayless' new spot -- which Bayless takes quite a bit of pride in.

Fish fry a staple of chef's formative years...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, Wisconsin native, chef Phillip Foss of Lockwood, explains why fish fry is so near and dear to his heart.

Small berry presents golden opportunity...Misha Davenport continues his 'cooking from her CSA box' series and provides a recipe for 'ground cherry' marmalade.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings 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.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of September 9, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

Samurai Behind the Sushi Bar: The Return of Matsumoto...LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles sushi master Seijiro Matsumoto, who has returned to Chicago and resumed cooking traditional kaiseki meals at Mizu Yakitori.

Essential Japanese Eating...brief reviews filed by the aforementioned Sula, LTHer David Hammond and Kate Schmidt, among others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

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

Mix masters...David Tamarkin and Julia Kramer introduce us to 6 local bartenders that they say represent "...Chicago's new bartending guard."

Trending: Cellared beer...David Tamarkin takes a look at this growing trend.

Delilah’s Sweet 16 Absinthe...Julia Kramer chronicles the process between North Shore Distillery and Deliliah's in developing a new, signature absinthe that will commemorate the bar's 16th anniversary.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

How sweet it is: Artisan honey creating a buzz...food editor Deborah Pankey chats with chef Randy Zweiban of Province and bee wrangler Doug Schulz of Wisconsin Natural Acres honey in Chilton, WI, about the noticeable advantages artisan honey provides in cooking. Several recipes are included.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Watermelon: More than dessert...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes supplies us with Daniel Alonso's recipe for LaSalle Power Co.’s Cucumber Watermelon Salad with Chili Lime Vinaigrette.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Kickin’ out the Jams: Taking breakfast to new heights...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that recently-opened Jam in Wicker Park is "almost pitch-perfect."
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Media Digest for the week of September 16, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

Winekillers and how to tame them...in this photo essay, Bill Daley checks in with a couple of wine experts to get guidance on how to effectively pair some notoriously wine-unfriendly foods.

The rise of naan: How to bake the Indian flatbread at home...Monica Eng provides a primer and a recipe for this common Indian bread, which is becoming more mainstream.

Fiber the latest ingredient in fortification craze...Janet Helm reports on fiber's current popularity and explains some of its purported health benefits.

Chef takes lunch crusade national...Monica Eng reports on chef Ann Cooper's school lunch program advocacy.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings 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.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of September 16, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

An Iconic American Food, Japanese-Style...LTH contributor Mike Sula checks out Gabutto Burger, located in the food court at Mitsuwa Marketplace in Arlington Heights.

Between the Bun...brief reviews of 11 great spots for burgers. Contributions here are from the aforementioned Sula, LTHers Gary Wiviott and Mike Gebert, as well as Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne, 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 provide an early, enthusiastic glimpse at Chilam Balam, a new Mexican byo in Lakeview.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Rush Hashanah...Heather Shouse, Julia Kramer and David Tamarkin 'compete' for some of the best high holiday food finds in Chicago.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Pears grown in the bottles make the schnapps...George LeClaire checks out Glenview resident Tracy Johntz does it.

Crockpot can be huge help with holiday meals...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles Laura Frankel, chef of Spertus Kosher Catering at the Spertus Institute in Chicago and author of Jewish Slow Cooker Recipes. Several recipes from the book are included.

Pumpkin pie spice: Not just for pumpkin pie anymore...Ms. Pankey provides some tips and recipes for using this traditional spice mixture in untraditional ways.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Lekach: Jewish honey cake, for a sweet new year...with Rosh Hashana just a few days away, LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes relays Gale Gand's recipe for Gale Gand’s Lekach (Honey-almond crunch cake).
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

At the time of this entry, no new content had been posted this week at NewCity's site. Please, check back later for updates.
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Media Digest for the week of September 23, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

All about lobster...Bill Daley says the best time of year for lobster is now, and he provides an informative primer on the crustaceans, as well. Included are More lobster cooking methods, in which Mr. Daley stresses the importance of timing when cooking lobster and a photo gallery featuring 9 lobster sandwiches in Chicagoland, penned by Christopher Borrelli.

Turning to a French source on tomato sauce...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan provides instructions on making French-style tomato sauce, one of the 5 'mother' sauces. A recipe is included.

Austria pushes its wines for the flavors of Asian cuisines...the aforementioned Mr. Daley reports on the big international marketing effort.

Egg confusion...Monica Eng attempts to demystify egg labeling terminology.

Review of 'Gastrokid Cookbook'...Judy Hevrdejs files a brief, favorable review of this new cookbook, written by Hugh Garvey and Matthew Yeomans.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Knives out: How to stock your first kitchen...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller provides some tips; not just for knives but for other categories of kitchen equipment and pantry items, too. A list of places to shop is included as a sidebar. Also provided is a list of The first cooking books you need.

Greener food, local agriculture on agenda...the aforementioned Ms. Fuller recaps last week's national gathering here in Chicago among food industry professionals and academics at which 'green' food trends were the focus.

Balsamico a true Italian treasure...Sarah Grueneberg, chef di cucina at Spiaggia, professes her love for balsamic vinegar and provides a recipe for Roasted acorn squash with parmigiano reggiano and aceto balsamico tradizionale.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings 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 23, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

What's New...LTH contributor Mike Sula visits Red Canary in River West, LTHer David Hammond scouts Nana in Bridgeport and Anne Spiselman checks out 33 Club in Old Town.

New Too...brief reviews of 10 additional new spots, with submissions by the aforementioned Sula and Hammond, as well as Kate Schmidt and Julia Thiel.
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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 Farmerie 58 has closed and will reopen as a sushi bar later this fall.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The Doug effect...David Tamarkin provides a genealogy of Chicago hotdog stands.

The hot seat...Chris Pandel of The Bristol straps in this week, as his Bucktown eatery celebrates its first anniversary.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Growing up in kitchens, chef's got cooking in his blood...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles and interviews chef Joseph Gustafson, a north-suburban native who's currently cooking at Double G's in Long Grove.

Cheap wines push consumption upward...Ms. Pankey reports that in spite of the bad economy, sales of inexpensive wines have pushed overall wine sales up.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Sagamité: A native-Illinoisan vegetable medley...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets the recipe for Blind Faith Cafe’s Sagamité -- a dish native to Illinois -- from chef Jonadab Silva.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

At the time of this entry, no new content had been posted this week at NewCity's site. Please, check back later for updates.
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I want to point out to anyone who isn't already aware of this phenomenal, ground-breaking project, that our own David Hammond is documenting something truly special in his Soundbites series, which is 'airing' weekly at Chicago Public Radio's web site:

Soundbites

Hammond has journied into a wide variety of kitchens and analyzed the beauty, significance and often-unnoticed importance of sound in these envirornments. If you are into food, cooking and restaurants, which I believe we all are, you owe it to yourself to give a listen to this ear-opening series that will forever change the way you think and feel about professional kitchens and restaurants.

Bravo, David!

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Media Digest for the week of September 30, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

The dinner party has changed...in this special to the Tribune, Amelia Levin tracks the latest development in the evolution of the dinner party, which is semi-commercial. Several recipes are included.

What's going on with California chardonnay?...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley investigates the current identity crisis with the best-selling wine variety in the U.S.

Party tips from the pros...Bill Daley checks in with 3 party professionals to get their current tips for entertaining at home. Recipes are included.

Oatmeal...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix tracks the current per-ounce pricing of several brands.

The Pollan phenomenon...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor recaps author Michael Pollan's appearance at Ravinia's Martin Theater last week.

Local food events, Local drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.

From the September 28 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Tacos El Norte, a local taqueria...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht checks out Tacos El Norte in Highwood, her local taqueria.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Stuffing your facebook: The kitchen is open online...Chuck Sudo reports on the growing on-line component of the local culinary world.

Danish eat a lot — just not danish...Lisa Donovan that Denmark shares at least one culinary tradition with Chicago . . . well, sort of.

Michael Chiarello is a master of 'social interaction,' soulful Italian food...Bill Zwecker profiles and interviews the Napa Valley-based chef, known for his Napa Style product line.

You'll get a kick out of these tailgating wines...Anu Karwa provides tasting notes on several tailgate-friendly wines.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage.

From the September 24 edition:
Vending machine expo hits Navy Pier...Cheryl V. Jackson recaps the National Automatic Merchandising Association's annual trade show, which recently took place in town.

It's a treat to eat a foot of meat...in a reprint from the Pioneer Press, Irv Leavitt checks out Famous Skirt Steak Sandwich at Booby's in Niles.
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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 30, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

The Mexican Hot Dog Moves On Up...LTHer David Hammond profiles Blanca Diaz and her newly-opened Delicias Mexicanas, where the latest reflection of Chicago's diverse ethnicity can be enjoyed on the bun.

Hot Diggity...brief reviews of 12 hotdog stands around town that are worth a visit. Contributions here are from LTHers David Hammond, Mike Sula, Michael Gebert and Tom Keith, as well as Martha Bayne and Kate Schmidt.
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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 The Fifth, the upcoming 5th restaurant from the group behind Volo, The Paramount Room and Kitsch’n.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The meal plan...Julia Kramer and David Tamarkin present their wish list and predictions for this fall's food.

Trending: Chips and dip...David Tamarkin identifies a few places in town where this classic combination is being cleverly reinvented.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Italian dumpling easy to make, easy to enjoy...food editor Deborah Pankey chats gnocchi with corporate chef Massimo Salatino of Francesca's. Several recipes are included.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Porchetta, a classic Italian pork roast...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets the recipe for Sepia's porchetta from chef Andrew Zimmerman.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Stairway to (Hamburger) Heaven: Edzo’s brings a seventies show to Evanston...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant previews Edzo's Burger Shop in Evanston, which is slated to open next week. Chef Eddie Lakin, the proprietor, is also an LTHForum.com contributor.
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Media Digest for the week of October 7, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

A toast to spaghetti wines...Bill Daley recommends several wine pairings for this iconic and somewhat (by his own admission) dated dish. Tasting notes are included.

Brewing a good cup of tea...Mr. Daley checks in with tea expert Michael Harney, who says that with the diverse selection of high-quality teas on the market, properly brewing it has become more complex.

Hunt over for rich one-pot chicken meal...JeanMarie Brownson explains why Chicken Cacciatore is such an inseparable part of her personal history, and provides a recipe, as well.

The Brooklyn Brewery Local 2...Jerald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

Gourmet magazine ceases publication...Judy Hevrdejs reports the details.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.

From the October 1 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Beef: From Plains to Plate...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht previews the upcoming Beef: From Plains to the Plate, a 3-day seminar from the Greater Midwest Foodways Alliance, of which Ms. Lambrecht is a founding member.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Restaurant staff make every bit count...Lisa Shames checks in at several local restaurants and learns how their chefs handle 'family meals.' A few recipes are included.

Game plan for tastier tailgating fare...Misha Davenport interviews Chicago chefs Julius Russell and Ben Walanka, hosts of The Big Ten Cookout, on the Big Ten Network. A recipe for maple vanilla brined pork chops with cinnamon butter glazed apples is included.

Home cooking with style...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller briefly (p)reviews 2 new cookbooks: New Classic Family Dinners from Mark Peel and Martha Stewart's Dinner at Home.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage.

From the October 6 edition:
Last meal for Gourmet...Ms. Fuller reports the details.

From the October 1 edition:
What would you like on the cake? Answer: Nothing...Mike Thomas interview Jen Yates' and briefly reviews her new book Cake Wrecks: When Professional Cakes Go Hilariously Wrong.
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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 7, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

Books for Cooks...LTH contributor Mike Sula rounds up a gaggle of locally-written books on food and drink.

Around the World in Curry...brief reviews of 10 restaurants around town that offer curries. Contributions here are from the aforementioned Sula, as well as Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne, among others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report the somewhat shocking news that Beard Award-winning chef Shawn McClain is out at Custom House and that plans are in the works to split up the mini-empire built by McClain, along with Sue and Peter Drohomyrecky. Of course, the constituents site the failing economy as one of the reasons for the split, even though that doesn't really make a whole lot of sense.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Those who can, can’t...Heather Shouse reports on the outrage brewing among local chefs over the City of Chicago's antiquated laws regarding canning, curing and other long-proven cooking methods.

Cooking, homestyle...David Tamarkin and Julia Kramer check out a few new cookbooks by Chicago chefs.
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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 site this week.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Waldorf salad, an apple-licious fall favorite...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets chef Francis Brennan's recipe for the updated rendition of Waldorf Salad served at Petterino's.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Just Pickled: Lakeview’s Falafill has good balls...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out Falafill in Lakeview where, he says, the balls -- and many other offerings -- are good.
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Media Digest for the week of October 14, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

A guide to food labels...Nutrition expert Janet Helm provides this guide for consumers who are still confused about food labeling and nutritional values.

Chef's mission: saving a city's food culture...Bill Daley profiles and interviews passionate New Orleans chef John Besh, whose new cookbook My New Orleans: The Cookbook, has just been published.

Eat smaller fish for their healthful properties...Bill Daley explains why many smaller fish are better for us and the environment.

Meet food-friendly, fruity pinot gris...the ubiquitous Mr. Daley introduces us to this varietal which, he says, doesn't get as much play as it rightfully should. Tasting notes are included.

Coffee story told in photographs...in this special to the Tribune, Nancy Maes checks out the Birth of Coffee exhibit, which runs through November 11 at the Morton Arboretum.

Chicago area food events, Chicago area wine and beer events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

The disappearing deli...Mike Thomas laments the fact that these one-time staples are disappearing from the Chicago area, and reports some of the reasons why. Included is a sidebar listing a few delis in town (not all of them so great) and a photogallery.

Substitution solutions...in a photogallery, food editor Janet Rausa Fuller provides some guidance for ingredient substitution.

With Gourmet's exit, other mags can sate appetites...with Gourmet on the way out, Ms. Fuller provides a list of food magazine alternatives.

Food 411...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage.
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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 14, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

What's New...LTH contributor Mike Sula scouts Chilam Balam and Rustico Grill, while Anne Spiselman pays an early visit to Elate.

New Too...the aforementioned Sula and Spiselman, along with LTHer David Hammond, Kate Schmidt and Julia Thiel file brief reviews of 10 recently-opened spots around town.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby interview Erik Williams, chef of the newly-opened Kosher (pareve) Morgan Harbor Grill on Devon Avenue in Rogers Park.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Three-way...David Tamarkin checks out what three local restauants are doing with fried birds.

All-out fall-out...Julia Kramer reports on 8 local dishes being served around town that are delivering the flavors of fall.
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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 site this week.
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This week at Chicago Public Radio's web site:

LTH's own David Hammond continues his Soundbites series with an installment featuring Grant Achatz and Alinea: Soundbites: Alinea.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat This! Cauliflower, versatile and underrated...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets the recipe for Courtright’s roasted Atlantic stone bass with cauliflower puree, from chef Jerome Bacle.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Meat Market: Folklore brings a taste of Tango to Division Street...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant visits Folklore in Wicker Park, the new venture from the folks behind Tango Sur.
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Media Digest for the week of October 21, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

Sliders slip easily into party mode...in this special to the Tribune, Margaret Sheridan reports on both the enduring and current popularity of these miniature sandwiches. Several recipes are included.

'Field Guide to Candy'...as we enter candy season, food editor Carol Mighton Haddix files a brief, favorable review of Field Guide to Candy: How to Identify and Make Virtually Every Candy Imaginable, by Anita Chu. A recipe from the book is included.

Slow-cooked pulled pork warms up a Halloween party...JeanMarie Brownson provides a recipe for slow-cooked pork, which she wisely does not refer to as barbeque. The recipe does, however, call for liquid smoke, which Brownson says is optional. My unsolicited advice: leave it out.

Sifting through new sugar guidelines...in this special to the Tribune, Janet Helm helps navigate yet another new set of nutrition standards.

Lost recipes, found!...in this special to the Tribune, Monica Kass Rogers digs up a bunch of sought-after, lost recipes.

Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's beverage events.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

In the can: My summer of Community Supported Agriculture...Misha Davenport wraps up the 20-week accounting of his CSA season and focuses on canning. Several recipes are included.

Editor moves on after loss of Gourmet...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller interviews Gourmet editor Ruth Reichl about her post-Gourmet future.

Greater Midwest Foodways symposium to cover meaty topics...Dave Hoekstra previews this weekend's big, beef-focused event, organized by LTH founding member Catherine Lambrecht.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional information about food industry-related events and news can be found here.

From the October 18 edition:
Wisconsin's craft breweries...Carrie Antlfinger reports on what makes these breweries worthy travel destinations.

From the October 15 edition:
And the winner is ... Your incomplete guide to Northburbian pizza...in a re-print from the Pioneer Press, Rick Moser provides incomplete rankings of 17 north-suburban pizza places.
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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 21, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

Xoco vs. Mercadito...LTH contributor Mike Sula says that compared to Xoco, Mercadito is a "loud, clubby . . . carpetbagger."

More Upscale Mex...brief reviews of 11 upscale Mexican eateries, with submissions by the aforementioned Sula, as well as LTHer David Hammond, Kate Schmidt and 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 preview Jason Paskewitz’s new restaurant, Gemini Bistro, on N. Lincoln Ave. The dish duo also give a shout out to LTHForum.com's newly-minted Great Neighborhood Restaurants.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The passions of Rick Tramonto...David Tamarkin profiles and interviews Rick Tramonto who, though religion, turned his life around over a decade ago.

Flavor saviors....the TOC staff profile 12 Chicago chefs they consider to be the most important at the moment.

Against bacon...David Tamarkin argues that bacon is over-rated, over-hyped and just over.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

So many pumpkin dishes to choose from, so little time...food editor Deborah Pankey explains why she loves pumpkin so much.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat This! Arancini, great balls of flavor from Sicily...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets the recipe for Il Poggiolo’s mushroom and taleggio arancini from chef Jim Kilberg.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

The Sausage Maker: Requiem for a butcher, a hooch maker, a grandfather...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant wishes a heartfelt goodbye to his recently-deceased grandfather; a man who influenced him in many ways, including culinarily.
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Media Digest for the week of October 28, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

Book review of "Get Cooking"...Bill Daley reviews the newest cookbook from noted author Mollie Katzen.

Trying dry red wines with chocolate...the aforementioned Daley provides this seasonal pairing advice, along with some tasting notes.

Bacon: One comprehensive guide...Christopher Borrelli files a brief, favorable review of Zingerman's Guide to Better Bacon, by Ari Weinzweig.

Pastry chef Sarah Levy has new cookbook....Monica Kass Rogers profiles and interviews this under-30, Chicago native whose new cookbook, Sweetness: Delicious Baked Treats for Every Occasion, is now in stores. A recipe from the book is included.

Deep frying – an introduction...James P. DeWan files his occasional Prep School installment.

Bacon reaches new heights of popularity...in this special to the Tribune, Rick Asa recaps the inaugural Baconfest, which took place last Saturday at Publican and was the brainchild of LTHer Seth Zurer.

Brewers head back to the barrel...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor previews The Festival of Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer, which will take place in town next week.

Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's beverage events.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Bread and soul: Chicago bakers take pan de muerto to new heights...Carolyn Walkup chats with several local bakers about this traditional, Day of the Dead delicacy.

Craving candy? Unwrap new cookbook by pastry enthusiast...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller profiles and interviews author Anita Chu, and previews her newly-released book, Field Guide to Candy: How to Identify and Make Virtually Every Candy Imaginable. Recipes from the book are included.

Pate a choux perfected...In this installment of At the Chef's Table, Frederic Moreau, executive pastry chef at NoMI, shares his secrets and a recipe. A demo video featuring chef Moreau is also included.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Additional information about food industry-related events and news 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 28, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

In His Element...Anne Spiselman profiles local entreprenuer Jonathan Miller, whose Element Bars soared in sales after his appearance on the reality tv show Shark Tank.

Crunch, Crunch...16 brief reviews of spots in town where vegetarian and organic foods can be had. Submissions here are from LTHer David Hammond, as well as Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne, among others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that the former Aigre Doux space will soon be occupied by Gilt Bar, from Ducasse and Keller alum Brendan Sodikoff.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

A city in waiting...David Tamarkin quizzes LTHer Gary Fine, -- John Evans Professor of Sociology at Northwestern University, and author -- on the signifcance of waiting in line for food.

Save the knishes...Julia Kramer interviews David Sax, founder/author of Save The Deli, who will be giving a lecture at Manny's on October 29 at 6pm.

So good it’s scary...Caroline Shields previews 9 of the city's top Halloween parties.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Root beer steps out of the shadows as popularity grows...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on why this craft beverage is gaining in popularity.

Former football player works on a different gridiron...Ms. Pankey profiles and interviews chef Jon Steinberg, executive chef at Egg Harbor Cafe in Glenview.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Panini, Italy’s answer to grilled cheese...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets the recipe for Salute Wine Bar’s panino from owner Dominic Gaziano.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

At the time of this entry, this week's new content had not yet been posted at New City's web site. Please, check back for updates.
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Media Digest for the week of November 4, 2009

From this week's Chicago Tribune and Good Eating section:

Learning about the wines of Fronsac...Bill Daley praises this often overlooked part of Bordeaux, which produces relatively inexpensive wines. Tasting notes are included.

Monks and nuns provide edible gifts by mail...Mr. Daley explores a few clergy-oriented holiday gift options.

One smoky beer...in his Beer of the Month installment, Jerald O'Kennard checks out Rogue Smoke Ale, from Oregon.

Chicago welcomes new gelato shop...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor scouts Paciugo in Lakeview.

How to use up those sale items from the supermarket...Judy Hevrdejs provides guidance, resources and recipes. More information -- on budget snacking -- is provided here.

New books on fast bread abound...in this special to the Tribune, Heather Lalley reviews several new releases. Recipes are included.

To the rescue...emphasizing the healthfulness of whole grains and beans, JeanMarie Brownson provides a couple of applicable and easy-to-prepare recipes.

Ethnic market tours...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor profiles Rebecca Wheeler, whose business is leading tours of ethnic markets all over Chicagoland.

Local food events, Chicago-area drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up a few of this week's food and beverage events.

From the November 2 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Memorable meals: Feeding the Family Cheap...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht explains how taking advantage of the season can lead to a variety of inexpensive meals. Her recipe for Pasta with Squash is included.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Meeting your meat: One woman's farm-to-plate experience...Jennifer Olvera chronicles her personal farm-to-table beef experience, which included being present for a slaughter. A couple of recipes are included.

For one night, tastier lunch on the menu for students...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller recounts her recent stint as a judge at cooking contest where she was disheartened by the realities of the CPS food budget allowances for student meals.

Lidia Bastianich an expert in Italian way — keeping it simple...Pat Bruno interviews this noted authority on Italian cuisine and provides a recipe for Riso e Zucca (Rice & Butternut Squash), from her new book, Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy.

Hometown talent has hook on fall cookbooks...the aforementioned Ms. Fuller rounds up several newly-released cookbooks, all from local authors.

Eater's Digest: November happenings...previews of the month's events in food and beverage. Additional information about food industry-related events and news can be found here, in Tastings Around Town.

From the November 3 edition:
Nick's Fishmarket closes, Don Roth's Blackhawk to close...Dave Roeder reports on the closings of these 2 venerable eateries.

From the October 29 edition:
Oh, doctor! Eat this sandwich and call 911...in this reprint from the Pioneer Press, Irv Leavitt checks out the famously massive 'Undisputed' from the Wiener & Still Champion, in Evanston, which is owned by LTHer Gus Paschalis.
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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 4, 2009

This week in the Chicago Reader's Food & Drink section:

What's New...LTH contributor Mike Sula checks out Old Town Social, Martha Bayne scouts Gemini Bistro and Anne Spiselman provides early recon on Orvieto.

New Too...brief reviews of 11 more recent openings, with submissions by the aforementioned Sula and Bayne, LTHer David Hammond and Julia Thiel.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby pass along word from a friend that the new Sun Wah BBQ is every bit as good as its predecessor.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Club Lago...David Tamarkin reports on the re-opening of this venerable eatery.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Work never stops at Heritage Prairie Farm...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles this Elburn farm and interviews director Portia Belloc Lowndes and manager Ted Richter.
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Posted this week at Dining Chicago.com:

Eat this! Guacamole, a singing sauce, on its day...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes gets the recipes for Zocalo Restaurant and Tequila Bar’s trio de guacamole and Roasted red jalapeno salsa from Chef Gustavo Casteñada. Also provided is an imbedded link to Rhett and Link's The Guacamole Song.

Also posted at Dining Chicago this week is a history of and guide to Chicago's Chinatown, by the aforementioned Ms. Zeldes.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Sweet and Sour: Close your eyes and eat at Belly Shack...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out the new, "Puerto-rean" eatery in Humboldt Park from Bill Kim and his wife Yvonne Cadiz-Kim.
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