Media Digest Addendum . . . May 16, 2007

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

What's New

The Scene Across From the Bean, Satisfying Pan-Mediterranean, and Disappointing Pan-Asian

Rob Christopher gauges The Gage, LTH'er David Hammond assesses Amphora and Chip Dudley pans Republic Pan-Asian Restaurant & Lounge.

Also served up is information about a couple dozen other newly-opened spots, with LTH'ers Mike Sula and David Hammond providing a healthy portion of it.
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May 23, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

'Cue Country...Bill Daley and Donna Pierce hit the road in search of real BBQ. They end up in North Carolina, where they report on the history, techniques and distinctive aspects of the region's specialty. Recipes are included.

Go native...Bill Daley reports on the surging popularity of the lagrein grape, native to northern Italy. Tasting notes are included.

Indian mangoes arrive in Chicago...Monica Eng reports on the long-awaited arrival of Alphonso mangoes, from India, which many consider to be the Cadillac of mangoes.

Pastry chefs compete for chocolate honors...in this special to the Tribune, Mary Jekielek Insprucker reports that Vincent Pilon, executive pastry chef at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, will represent the U.S. at the second World Chocolate Masters 2007 in Paris, after winning the U.S. World Chocolate Masters championship, which was held last Saturday at the French Pastry School, here in Chicago.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Movable feast...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles Alejandro "Alex" Arroyo, who owns and operates the lunch truck at the NE corner of Erie and Fairbanks. Ms. Clark explains that Arroyo is just one member of the "Lunch Bunch," a group of lunch truck operators who deliver distinctive cuisine, around the city, on a daily basis.

Coffee cuisine...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles coffee evangelist and author Steve Petusevsky.

Squash blossoms bloom in Mexican, Italian restaurants...Lisa Donovan reports on the burgeoning popularity of these late spring/early summer delicacies.

Food news...among other news, Denise I. O'Neal reports that Maggiano's has launched a program to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Tin Fish, Krem Lounge, Scoozi!, Francesca's Famiglia of Barrington, Ravinia Festival, Geja Cafe and Heaven on Seven.

From the May 22 edition:
Hospitality, haute style...in this week's Five for Frying installment, LTH'er Mike Nagrant sits down with Erwin Drechsler of Erwin.

From the May 18 edition:
Software gets restaurant waits down to a science...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on a couple of interesting iondustry developments which were on display at the recently-completed National Restaurant Association's annual show, which was held in Chicago.
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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Fortified foods give consumers hope for healthy living...food editor Deborah Pankey reports that fortified foods help health-conscious consumers make every calorie count.

Wild ingredients, inventiveness trademarks of Pane Caldo chef...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Leah A. Zeldes profiles Roselle resident Maurice Bonhomme, chef at Pane Caldo on north Michigan Avenue.
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From the May 22 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Crabbin' in Chicago...LTH'er Mike Nagrant explains that even though he has conflicted feelings of regional propriety about it, he still looks forward to the annual arrival of soft-shell crabs at Dirk's Fish & Gourmet Shop each May. Also included is a recipe for a delectable looking soft-shell crab po-boy.
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May 23, 2007 . . . Media Digest Addenda

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

Alhambra Palace...in this New Review, David Tamarkin likens Randolph Row's newest entry to a cafeteria and says that the food is well-cooked but bland. And in this Just Opened installment, Heather Shouse takes an advance look at Crust, Chicago's first organic pizzeria, scheduled to open on May 24.

The hot seat...Dirk Flanigan of The Gage, buckles up this week.

The Silver Palm is the subject of this week's Save This Restaurant missive, from Mia Littlejohn.

In this week's Top nosh, Jake Malooley recommends 2 new flavors from the Bobtail Ice Cream Company, the winners of their recent Birth of a Flavor contest.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse touts Aecht Schlenkerla Helles.

Hot sauce...David Tamarkin says the J Twist, created by GM Jimmy Koklas, is good enough to steer some male J Bar customers away from beer.
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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm that Eric Aubriot has indeed left the building, or more specifically, Alhambra Palace.
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Media Digest Addendum . . . May 23, 2007

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

Counter Culture

Best Panini in Town?

Nicholas Day makes a case for Vella Cafe on north Western Avenue in Bucktown. Also provided is a roster of 23 other spots in town which serve exceptional sandwiches -- eveything from "subs to tortas to banh mi" -- to which LTH'ers Mike Sula and Jim Mitchell contributed.
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From the Chicago Reader's blog, The Food Chain:

David Hammond speaks for the cicada...Mike Sula reports that LTH'er "David 'the Hat' Hammond has emerged as the media's go-to guy for cuisine de cicada." He's been quoted at multiple media outlets, including the Associated Press. Mr. Hammond (along with fellow LTH'ers Catherine Lambrecht and Marilyn Pocius) was also featured in a television segment which aired on ABC TV's Chicago outlet, WLS (Channel 7). In case you missed it, that segment can be found here.

From the May 22 installment:
The Whole Hog Project: More hooves on the ground...Mike Sula follows up on his terrific story from last week about the Mulefoot pigs being raised at Hillspring Farm in Blanchardville, WI.
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Media Digest Addendum . . . May 23, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune:

Let smoke get in your eyes this weekend...John Kass profiles LTHforum.com's fearless leader and BBQ/smoker maven Gary Wiviott, who's writing an instructional book about BBQ and also will be appearing as a " . . . guest at the Chicago Tribune Printer's Row Book Fair on June 10, as part of a barbecue panel."

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May 30, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Standing out by blending in...Bill Daley reports on a group in California which is reproducing grape varieties -- and accompanying wine styles -- normally associated with the Rhone region. Tasting notes are included.

When the wives are away, the guys will saute...in this special the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles a bunch of guys in the northern suburbs who like to get together and cook

Learning to master crepes...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan says that they are " . . . easy to make, and they freeze beautifully, so you can have a few now and freeze the rest for later."

Beware the food-fight backlash...Janet Helm reports that some parents are overreacting -- and doing more harm than good -- in their efforts to thwart childhood obesity.

We'll be cooking at the book fair...the Good Eating staff lays out their schedule of events for the Printer's Row Book Fair (June 9-10), which includes a panel appearance and BBQ-cooking demo by LTHForum.com's founder, Gary Wiviott.

Beer of the Month: Michelob Amberbock...Jerald O'Kennard files his monthly missive.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Flavor of fresh...food editor Sue Ontiveros previews the Farmers Market season. And Bill Cunniff provides the Sun-Times' list of area markets here: Let the outdoor shopping season begin!. Also provided is this useful, Growing calendar reference.

Real or not, cicadas as food whets appetites...Lisa Donovan reports that cicadas -- real and faux -- are very much in the culinary spotlight at the moment.

Celiac diagnosis leads to food line...Denise I. O'Neal reports on how one man's diagnosis with celiac disease led to a line of gluten-free products, designed to help fellow sufferers.

Serving up dignity...Sandy Thorn Clark reports on what some area chefs are doing to highlight Hunger Awareness Day, on June 5.

From the May 29 edition:
Master of (the) class...in this week's Five for Frying segment, LTH'er Mike Nagrant sits down with Shelley Young of The Chopping Block.
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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Want beach-worthy abs? You can eat your way there...food editor Deborah Pankey explains . . . sort of.

Freshness the key when it comes to fish dishes...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles Jesus Ramos, head chef at Highland Park's Metropolitan Café.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.
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From the May 29 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Chewing on Crust...LTH'er Mike Nagrant take a preview look at Crust, the first certified-organic pizzeria in the midwest and says of it, " . . . Wicker Park may just have a culinary Kobe Bryant on its hands."
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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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May 30, 2007 . . . Media Digest Addenda

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

Page breaks...the TOC staff identify some of the summer's best new releases in food and drink. Heather Shouse previews A Twist of the Wrist by Nancy Silverton, David Tamarkin praises Roadfood Sandwiches from Jane and Michael Stern and Jake Malooley says that A Chicago Tavern: A Goat, a Curse and the American Dream, by Rick Kogan, is " . . . an engrossing, exciting, affectionate study peppered with myth (the birth of the Cubs curse); funny and touching anecdotes about John Belushi and Mike Royko . . ."

Just opened...David Tamarkin takes a peek at Via Carducci La Sorella in Wicker Park.

Farmers' market find...this week, Lisa Futterman says its the mushrooms from River Valley Ranch Farm, which are available at the Lincoln Park High School Farmers’ Market.

Mixed match...Rebekah Thomas, sommelier of the Pump Room, mixes and matches this week.

Oeno files...this week, David Tamarkin samples the 2005 Chateau Vignol.

Hot sauce...in this week's installment, David Tamarkin praises the Pear-Cucumber Martini from mixologist Debbi Peek, of Tramonto’s Steak & Seafood.
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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Il Fiasco, ". . . an affordable Italian spot from Michael and Natalie Moore (formerly of Pasta Palazzo and Twist) in Andersonville’s old Rioja space." The owners hope to open by sometime in late June.
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Media Digest Addendum . . . May 30, 2007

From the June 1 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

What's New

Rustic Italian, Coal-Oven Pizza, and Thai Tapas

The crew at the Reader again provides glimpses of some newly-opened spots in town. LTH'er Mike Sula checks out Anteprima in Andersonville, Martha Bayne visits Coalfire in Wicker Park and Rob Christopher scouts Sura in Lakeview. Also provided are glimpses of several other relative newbies in town, with contributions by the aforementioned Mr. Sula and LTH'er David Hammond.

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

Stalking the wild cicada – and cooking him...LTH'er -- and noted bug maven -- David Hammond details some of his favorite cicada preparation techniques and a few from fellow LTH'er Catherine Lambrecht, as well.
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Media Digest for the week of June 6, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Kitchen Legacies...Donna Pierce reports on the value of family recipes as links to our own personal histories.

Good Eating returns to 2007 Printers Row Book Fair...the Good Eating staff lays out a detailed schedule of events that will take place at their stage during this weekend's Printers Row Book Fair. Among the festivities, LTHForum.com's own Gary Wiviott will participate in the "All About BBQ" panel discussion and provide a cooking demo, as well.

French lead the way to rose with dry styles...Bill Daley says that if you want to explore the world of Rose wine, those made in the French style are the ones to start with. Tasting notes are included.

A year of eating locally...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles author Barbara Kingsolver and her new book, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life.

Litchi...Bill Daley files this useful guide.

Essentially invaluable...Renee Enna files this brief and favorable review of The Essential Baker, by Carole Bloom.

From the May 10 edition:
Bill-backers call for local growing, more organics...Barbara Horan reports on how an effort help Illinois' smallest farms has brought together a broad range of environmental and dietary allies.

Thanks to LTHForum.com member, Katie, for bringing this above item to our attention.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Top chef...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles Chicago native Kevin Hickey, executive chef at the Four Seasons.

Blame your bill on corn, weather...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on higher grocery costs and the larger reasons behind them.

Grocery chain bets tamarillo will tempt its shoppers...Lisa Donovan reports that Meijer has added this fruit to their roster in the hopes of boosting the chain's "foodie cred."

Scoring the competition...Dave Hoekstra takes a look at Chicago's newest pizza darling, Coal Fire, on west Grand Avenue.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Cafe Matou and Corner Cooks.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal erroneously reports that the Green City Market opens today, with an appearance by Rick Bayless. The market actually opened on Wednesday May 16.

Old-school cooking rocks...in this week's Five For Frying installment, LTH'er Mike Nagrant profiles 2007 Beard Award nominee Mindy Segal, chef/owner of Hot Chocolate.
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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Think globally. Eat locally...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on what is arguably the most talked-about food trend in 2007, localvorism.

Her world view of cuisine takes off at Flight...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Leah A. Zeldes profiles Deerfield native Maya Rotman-Zaid, executive chef at Flight in Glenview.

[url=http://www.dailyherald.com/food/story.asp?id=320499&rec=fdclasses0606[w]Food and wine classes[/url]...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.
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From the June 5 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Certified in the City...LTH'er Mike Nagrant questions the true value of organic certification and recounts his lackluster 'blunch' at Vella Cafe.
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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 Addendum . . . June 6, 2007

Legendary Le Francais in Wheeling has closed

The news is out and being distributed by several outlets:

Le Francais seems to have served last meal...Phil Vettel reports the news in today's Chicago Tribune:

Owner Michael Moran quietly closed the restaurant last week. The answering machine there says the restaurant has "temporarily suspended service," but insiders are saying Le Francais is gone for good.

"What can I say? I was shocked when I found out," said chef Roland Liccioni, who acknowledged that business had been slow but he had hoped for a turnaround. "I have no idea what I'll do now. ... I'll take some time off to clear my head."

For most of its 34-plus years, Le Francais was the standard-bearer for fine dining in the Chicago area. Long before such nationally famous places as Charlie Trotter's, Tru and Alinea opened, Le Francais was the biggest destination restaurant that Chicago had ever seen. In 1980, Bon Appetit magazine declared Le Francais the country's best restaurant.

Popular Wheeling restaurant closes...Janet Rausa Fuller reports the news for the Sun-Times:

The restaurant filed a notice with the Wheeling Fire Department within the last week that it was no longer operating, said James Lang, economic development director for the Village of Wheeling.

A busboy and food runner who did not want to be named said staff were not told ahead of time of the closing by owner Michael Moran. It was only after getting a phone call from Moran the day after Memorial Day that the busboy said he learned he had already worked his last day.

It's adieu to Le Francais...Phil Vettel's take from yesterday's edition of The Tribune's Stew:

Michael Lachowicz, one of just four chefs in Le Francais' history, praised the establishment as "a chef's restaurant" that "changed the face" of the restaurant industry.

"Any chef who isn't sad at this news either forgot why he became a chef, or was never a chef in his heart in the first place," Lachowicz said. "All its ups and downs of the last few years doesn't change the impact this restaurant had on Chicago."

Le Francais restaurant closes...Avian Carrasquillo reports the news for the Daily Herald:

“In the ’70s and ’80s that was the place to be, but times have changed. Now, if you’re out and you end up waiting two or more hours for a meal, chances are you’ll be complaining to management,” he said.

“Today everyone works, the kids have soccer practice. Families really don’t have three hours to dedicate to a meal.”

Le Francais closed once before, in June 2003. It reopened in November of that year.

When the restaurant opened in 1973, famed chef and owner Jean Banchet quickly put it on the culinary map as one of the finest French restaurants in the world.

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Special Media Alert for week of June 6, 2007:

Gary Wiviott, noted Barbeculogist and founder of LTHForum.com -- the Chicago-based culinary chat site -- will be a special guest on the Steve Dolinsky Show, this Saturday, June 9th at 3pm CDT on WCKG Radio, 105.9 FM

Gary and Steve (not to be confused with Steve and Garry) will be talking about BBQ, after which Steve will open up the phone lines for calls about restaurants, barbecuing and all things culinary.

Again, this special event will take place on Saturday June 9 - WCKG Radio, 105.9 FM - at 3pm CDT.

Steve Dolinsky Show
Saturday June 9th at 3pm
WCKG Radio, 105.9 FM
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 6, 2007

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

Farmers' market find...Lisa Futterman discovers the heirloom organic beets from Henry's Farm at the Evanston Farmers' Market.

Tomatoes on a hot tin roof...Lisa Shames succinctly explains why 'EarthBoxes' are a great solution for serious gardening where space and other resources are limited.

The hot seat...Laura Cid-Perea of Bombon Bakery straps in this week.

Brain food...Jake Malooley reports that eattheseasons.com is "a deep well of seasonal food information."

The beer geek...Heather Shouse says that Brewery Ommegang’s Hennepin is solid, steady and brilliant.
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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm the big story that Le Francais has closed but also report on indications that it may not be for good.
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Media Digest Addendum for the week of June 6, 2007

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

Transformations

Rethinking the Alhambra

Anne Spiselman reports on the uphill battle Alhambra Palace now faces after its less-than-stellar opening and the defection of its chef -- and she quotes LTHForum.com's tem in the process.

And as long as they're on the subject, mini reviews of a couple dozen additional Middle Eastern, North African, and Turkish spots in town are provided, with contributions by LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond, Mike Sula and Michael Morowitz.

There's also quite a bit of action this week at the Reader's Food and Drink blog, The Food Chain:

This weekend and beyond...Mike Sula explains why it's "a big weekend for Wiv."

Otom's menu revealed!...Mr. Sula previews the new menu at Otom, Moto's inverse-ego restaurant, set to open next month.

Meatless in Glendale Heights: Village Hut...Mr. Sula sings the praises of Village Hut in Glendale Heights and gives a well-deserved shout-out to LTH's own ReneG in the process.

A taste of northern Thailand...Martha Bayne briefly explains why she was so impressed by her inaugural visit to Sticky Rice on north Western Avenue.

The Whole Hog Project: So what does mulefoot taste like?...the latest installment in this great series by Mike Sula recaps the findings of an expert tasting panel he assembled -- which included LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott -- to compare mulefoot pork products with their "concentration camp pork" counterparts.
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Media Digest Addendum for the week of June 6, 2007

From the June 7 edition of the Daily Herald:

KS Seafood's Taiwanese fare appeals to more exotic tastes...Leah A. Zeldes references a discussion here at LTHForum.com in her favorable review of KS Seafood, in Chinatown.
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Media Digest for the week of June 13, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Snap!...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor attempts to discover why we love crisp foods so much.

Chef's challenge: cooking at Sox game...in another special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor reports on what happened when the White Sox and the Food Network recently collided on the south side.

Also on the scene...a very busy Susan Taylor visits 3 recently-opened area food shops.

It's all about meat...Folks, Susan Taylor has taken over the Good Eating section and she visits Great Steaks and More in Bolingbrook.

How to handle poblano chilies...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix files this useful guide.

How to make red wine work in summer...Bill Daley provides some solid advice on how to successfully incorporate red wine into warm-weather dining.

I'll take a martini with that olive...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara finds that, for many fans, it's the olive which distinguishes and defines the martini.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Fill 'im up...with Fathers Day coming up on Sunday, Sandy Thorn Clark visits with 3 local steakhouse chefs and gets their advice on how to best prepare steaks for dad.

Time to indulge if you're wild about salmon...Lisa Donovan reminds us that it's Copper River salmon season.

There's purpose to these parties...Lynne Marek reports on the growing number of professional kitchens in town which are available to food fans with variety of purposes -- including partying.

Crosstown event...Denise I. O'Neal previews an upcoming Common Threads benefit which will pit Cubs fans against Sox fans.

Chiarello and Bayless do cooking demos at Custer's Last Stand...Denise I. O'Neal previews this weekend's appearances in Evanston by these 2 well-known chefs.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Carlucci (Downers Grover), Morton's (Westchester), 17/West at the Berghoff, Sam's Wine (Downers Grove), Petrucci Italian Market (Antioch), Adobo Grill (on Division) and Carlos.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal highlights a few of the week's industry happenings and roll-outs.

From the June 12 edition:
Sunflower team...in this week's installment of Five For Frying, LTH'er Mike Nagrant chats with Chris and Mary Spagnola of Emilio's Sunflower Bistro in LaGrange.

From the June 11 edition:
Trotter trying his luck in Vegas again...Janet Rausa Fuller reports that CT plans to open a seafood-themed restaurant in the Venetian Hotel & Resort this November.
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From the June 12 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Flavor Creator...Ryan Wenzel profiles Qutradullah Syed and his highly regarded Bhabi’s Kitchen on north Oakley Avenue (at Devon).
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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 June 13, 2007

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

Save this restaurant...LTH'er David Hammond lobbies for Klas on Chicago's southwest side.

Top nosh...in this week's installment, David Tamarkin praises the soft-shell crab po’ boy at Heaven on Seven.

Farmers’ market find...Lisa Futterman stumbles across the watercress from Green Acres farm, which is available at the Green City Market.

Bag it...Jill Dudones recommends Biscotti’s Galore & More on south Wells Street.

Brain food...Tim McCormick identifies Beerables.net as a good source for serious, beer-lovers' barware.

Oeno files...David Tarmarkin reviews the 2005 Crystal Valley Cellars “Cigarzin.”
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Chicago Magazine's web site has been redesigned and Dish has been reformatted into a blog where readers can now post replies and comments. In this week's installment, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm the news that Laurent Gras will figure prominently in the future plans for the soon-to-be-former Ambria space.

Also this week, LTH'er Mike Nagrant continues his Chefs on the Grill series of podcasts as he sits down with Gabino Sotelino, who will close his famed Ambria on June 30, after 27 years in business.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Charcoal on fire again...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on the resurgence of charcoal grills.

Freshness rules his four restaurant kitchens...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles Hans Ladwein, executive chef at the Garlands of Barrington.

[url=http://www.dailyherald.com/food/story.asp?id=322678&rec=fdclasses0613[w]Food and wine classes[/url]...a comprehensive listing of upcoming, area classes and food events, sorted by date.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 13, 2007

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

What's New

Kleiner's Latest Room, a Steak and Potatoes Supper Club, and Certified Organic Pizza

The focus is again on the recent bows as Anne Spiselman visits Room 21, LTH'er Mike Sula tries the Cordis Brothers Supper Club and Martha Bayne scouts Crust. Also provided are mini-reviews of several other relatively new spots in town, with LTH'ers David Hammond and Mr. Sula doing plenty of the heavy (fork and pen) lifting.
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This week at the Chicago Reader's food and drink blog, The Food Chain:

How Randolph Street tastes...Martha Bayne takes an advance look at this weekend's Taste of Randolph Street and says its offerings are better than you might expect. Ms. Bayne also shares her early look at the newly-released Atlas of American Artisan Cheese, which she says "...stands to be the definitive reference guide to American artisanal cheesemakers and their products..."

Mike Sula updates us on the local foie gras situation, decries Saveur Magazine's recent annointment of Gene & Georgetti and delivers another compelling installment of the The Whole Hog Project.
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Media Digest for the week of June 20, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Let crisp, lively wines revive heat-flagged palates at your next dinner for friends...Bill Daley makes some key recommendations on wines and entertaining in warm weather. Also provided is a list of suggested guides for entertaining and a bevy of recipes, including some from local restaurants.

A labor of love...Robin Mather Jenkins is hard core, when it comes to preserving strawberries.

Sorting through the salmon case...with Copper River salmon season upon us, Robin Mather Jenkins provides a primer on the various varieties of salmon which are currently available.

An open-and-shut case...Renee Enna goes to market and provides reviews of several brands of tongs.

Gurus of the grill...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara profiles authors Andrew Schloss and David Joachim, who will be in town this weekend, promoting their latest book, Mastering the Grill.

Golden beets...Robin Mather Jenkins files this useful guide.

Some more s'mores, please...Renee Enna files a fairly neutral review of S'mores: Gourmet Treats for Every Occasion, by Lisa Adams.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Fish for the future...Jennifer Olvera reports that "...if we don't start making responsible choices regarding seafood consumption soon, the outlook is bleak."

Baker revels in sweet life...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles baker Courtney Dohman (sweetsbycourtney.com), who says that variety is the key to successful wedding sweets.

Iced, ice baby...Denise I. O'Neal rounds-up a few of the more well-known spots in town who sell iced coffee beverages.

No rivalry when it comes to favorites at the ol' ballpark...Lisa Donovan reports that hotdogs were the number one selling item at both Chicago ballparks last year.

Pig roast, city style...Denise I. O'Neal trails Channel 7's Hungry Hound, Steve Dolinsky, during a recent pig roast he hosted.

Bits and bites...Denise I. O'Neal previews a few upcoming, area food events.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Kit Kat Lounge, 17/west at the Berghoff, Osteria via Stato and Niche.

Award winners give insight on cooking fish...food editor Sue Ontiveros provides the list of recent publications.

From the June 19 edition:
Blackbird's chef spreads his wings...in this week's installment of Five For Frying, LTH'er Mike Nagrant sits down with Blackbird's new executive chef, Mike Sheerin (not Paul Kahan as the fuzzy headline might lead one to believe).

From the June 18 edition:
Masked cooks give diners peace of mind...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on this ironically unappetizing kitchen practice at La Casa del Gordo in Highland Park.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 20, 2007

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

Just opened: Heather Shouse takes a pre-opening look at African Harambee, scheduled to open in Rogers Park, this weekend. David Tamarkin previews Oak Park's Trattoria 225, which will bow next week.

Top nosh...in this week's installment, Jake Malooley highlights the housemade ice-cream flights at Sola.

Farmers’ market find...Lisa Futterman discovers the great live herbs from Ted's Greenhouse, at the Oak Park Farmers' Market.

In this week's Bag it, David Tamarkin tips us off to Windy City Soda Root Beer.

The beer geek...this week, Heather Shouse recommends Brooklyn Brewery’s Black Chocolate Stout.
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In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report the news that Blue Water Grill will bring on yet another new executive chef. This time, it's Joel Dennis, most recently of Tru, who will start on June 25.

The Dish duo also interview LTH'er and self-proclaimed “barbecue pitmistress, ” Grace Delcano (aka Swine Dining), whose culinary mastery is being discussed in this thread.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Sesame Street can lead right to your kitchen this summer...food editor Deborah Pankey provides tips for keeping children entertained this summer -- in a culinary way.

A good challenge is part of preparing meals...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, frequent LTHForum contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles chef Fred Ramos of Gioco.

[url=http://www.dailyherald.com/food/story.asp?id=324596&rec=fdclasses0620[w]Food and wine classes[/url]...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.
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Media Digest Addendum . . . June 20, 2007

From the June 22 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

The Reader's 2007 Al Fresco Dining Guide
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Also this week . . .

Sweet Spots

The Polish Patisserie

Alan Mammoser profiles Jefferson Park's Delightful Pastries and its "proprietress," Dobra Bielinski.

Also provided are mini-reviews of several other tried and true sources in town for Polish, Russian, and Eastern European Food. Several of the reviews are provided by LTH'ers David Hammond, Michael Gebert and Mike Sula.
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From the Chicago Reader's food and drink blog, The Food Chain:

Mike Sula continues The Whole Hog Project with the latest installment, Meet the farmers, part one.

Be your own butter maker...Martha Bayne describes the excitement -- and sense of pure foodie empowerment -- that comes with producing one's own dairy products.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 20, 2007

From Section 1 of this week's Chicago Reader:

Change of plans...in this fascinating but unfortunate story, LTH'er Mike Sula reports on the acrimony and internal conflicts that have dogged Crust, since before its opening.

When Activists Attack...Mick Dumke reports on the uphill battle animal activists are facing in trying to keep foie gras illegal -- and off restaurant menus -- in Chicago.
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From the June 22 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Covert cuisine...LTH'er Mike Nagrant goes inside Chicago's underground dining movement, specifically Chicago’s Sunday Dinner Club.
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Media Digest for the week of June 27, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Savor the Smoky Spell of Memphis...Bill Daley visits Memphis where, even though barbeque is ubiquitous, a single, local style is hard to define.

Panning for gold...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan illuminates the path to well-made pan sauces.

Zindepenence day...Bill Daley explains that Zinfandel is a great wine choice for Independence Day, not only because of its American pedigree but also because of how well it matches up with many of the foods which are typically served at July 4th festivities. Tasting notes are included.

Barbecuing and grilling books roundup...Bill Daley lists a few notables in the 'outdoor cooking' category.

Sweet cherries...Donna Pierce files this useful guide.

Opinions oceans apart on wild salmon vs. farm-raised...Robin Mather Jenkins reports that in spite of what appear to be obvious facts, there is still some debate as to which category of salmon is superior.

Great Lakes Brewing Co. Eliot Ness Lager...Jerald O'Kennard files the Beer of the month installment.

Fruit wars!...in this special to the Tribune, Rick Asa takes a look at the battle between fruit marketers in touting the antioxidant benefits of their offerings.

Championing vanilla...in this special to the Tribune, Alison Neumer Lara profiles Waukegan-based, vanilla processor Nielsen-Massey, as they celebrate their 100th year in business.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Bayless, peerless...Sandy Thorn Clark reports that in the wake of his recent James Beard award win, Rick Bayless is still going -- and stronger than ever. And in this sidebar, we learn a few of chef Bayless's preferences.

Something's shaking with salt and pepper...Lisa Donovan reports on some new trends in spices.

Owner keeps 'em coming back...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles Joe Marsico, proprietor of Hot Diggity Dog in Streeterville, who will soon be looking for a new location (also in Streeterville).

From the June 26 edition:
Five for Frying...in this week's installment, LTH'er Mike Nagrant quizzes chef Jorgina Pereira of Sinha.

From the June 24 edition:
Market has fresh option for food-stamp recipients...Janet Rausa Fuller reports that beginning this Sunday ". . . the market at the corner of Logan and Milwaukee will have a machine people can use to swipe their food-stamp card to buy fresh produce."
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From the June 26 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Magical Mystery Meat Tour...LTH'er Mike Nagrant lists a few of his favorite restaurants in town for various offal (and huitlacoche) preparations.
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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 June 27, 2007

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

In this week's installment of Just opened, David Tamarkin previews 3 new bakeries in Wicker Park: Sweet Cakes Bakery, Milk & Honey Bakeshop and Lovely: A Bake Shop.

Hot sauce...this week, Jake Malooley praises the sno-cone cocktail at Plan B Bar + Kitchen.

In this week's Oeno files, David Tamarkin assesses the 2005 Furlan “Mari Me.”
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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on Il Covo's new owner and its new incarnation as a "straight-up Italian" spot.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

New animated film can tickle children's taste buds...food editor Deborah Pankey explains how easily children's food tastes can be influenced -- for the better!

Chef likes opportunity to change someone's life, if only for an hour...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles David DiGregorio, executive chef and partner at Chicago's Osteria Via Stato.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 27, 2007

From the June 29 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

What's New

The Master's Mole, a Taste of the Andes, and the Old Something for Everyone Problem

The crew at the Reader again looks inside some newly-opened eateries. LTH'er David Hammond checks out Geno Bahena's Delicioso y Sabroso on the south side, Anne Spiselman visits Machu Picchu in Wrigleyville and Nicholas Day stops in at Chicago Ale House in Lincoln Square. Also provided are brief reviews of 21 other recently-opened spots in town, with contributions by the aformentioned Mr. Hammond and LTH'er Mike Sula.
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From the Chicago Reader's food and drink blog, The Food Chain:

Mike Sula's The Whole Hog Project continues with Piglet video from Hillspring's summer solstice festival, shot by Elizabeth Gomez.
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This week at the Chicago Tribune's food blog, The Stew:

Dale Levitski Watch: Episode 3 of "Top Chef"...In case you missed Wednesday night's episiode of Top Chef -- and even if you didn't -- Joe Gray updates us on chef Levitski's status.

What's Chicago's barbecue style?...after BBQ tours of North Carolina and Memphis, Bill Daley wonders about Chicago's signature style of 'Q.

Foodies note: Unlock the "secret" Japanese menu at Itto Sushi...Monica Eng uncovers the "'secret' menu at Itto Sushi" and gives a shout-out to LTHForum.com in the process.
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Media Digest for the week of July 4, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

25 Sterling 'Silver'...Robin Mather Jenkins checks in with cookbook authors Julee Rosso and Sheila Lukins as the 25th Anniversary edition of their seminal The Silver Palate Cookbook hits the shelves.

Celebrating all the ethnic flavors that define Chicago...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix takes a stab at a recipe from the newly-released cookbook, Street Food Chicago, by Mike Baruch.

This Crosstown Classic cooks, with sliders and brats...in this special to the Tribune, Kevin Pang reports the results from the recently-held Crosstown Culinary Classic charity event, which pitted Paul Kahan (Blackbird) against Kevin Hickey (Four Seasons) in a north side versus south side culinary battle.

Inspired by a garden...Robin Mather Jenkins files a brief, favorable review of the newest release from Patricia Wells, Vegetable Harvest.

Icebery lettuce...Renee Enna files this useful guide.
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From the July 2 edition of the Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Slice of life...Sandy Thorn Clark visits with 3 of Chicago's top pastry chefs who explain that the reality of their lives doesn't exactly match up with that presented in the current film Waitress.

What a relief!...Sandy Thorn Clark checks in with a few local experts to get advice on creating refreshing, summer libations.

Mulberries are fine for eating, but wash first!...Lisa Donovan reports that mulberries are, in fact, edible.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Tin Fish and Zocalo.

From the July 3 edition:
Five For Frying...in this week's installment, LTH'er Mike Nagrant quizzes chef Noah Bekofsky of Aria.

The Sun-Times has also run a few Taste-related pieces, which can be found here, here and here.
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From the July 2 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Au Revoir Ambria...LTH'er Mike Nagrant says his goodbye and provides a bit of useful perspective.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 4, 2007

From The TOC Blog at Time Out Chicago:

So long Scylla...Heather Shouse breaks the news that Scylla will close on September 1. Takashi Yagihashi has offered to purchase the business and will open his new venture there.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Rib rules: Eight steps to perfection...food editor Deborah Pankey delivers tips from BBQ author Steve Raichlen's book, Ribs, Ribs, Outrageous Ribs.

Restaurateur treats customers 'like I'm the personal chef'...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Leah A. Zeldes profiles chef Jorge Almaraz of Flamingo's Seafood in Mount Prospect.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 4, 2007

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

Transformations

Tastes of Sardinia and the Dominican Republic; Bar Food in Boys Town

Martha Bayne visits Bucktown's Il Covo, which recently changed hands. Anne Spiselman checks out Punta Cana (nee Rudy's Taste). Rob Christopher reports on the recently reconcepted Halsted's Bar & Grill, which was X/O in its former life. Also provided are reviews of 20 other spots in town which are still going strong in their first year. Here, LTH'ers David Hammond and Mike Sula contribute robustly.
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This week at the Chicago Reader's food and drink blog, The Food Chain:

Julie Thiel rounds up the week's happenings in food, while Martha Bayne does the same on the virtual side of things.

Martha Bayne confirms the rumors that Schwa will be closed in July. Ms. Bayne also reports that Schwa will reopen on August 3 with a new menu.
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This week at the Chicago Tribune's food blog, The Stew:

The staff at the Trib provide several takes on this year's Taste of Chicago, with contributions by Phil Vettel, Monica Eng and Glenn Jeffers.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

There seem to be some technical problems at TOC's web site this week but if you get a chance, check out these discussion-worthy pieces:

The 'wich is back...by Jake Malooley, Heather Shouse, Scott Smith and David Tamarkin, with photographs by Jessica Dixon.

Fast, easy and -- by definition -- cheap, sandwiches ar the ultimately bargain eats. We think our favorites (listed here in no particular order) are the greatest thing since sliced bread.

Dog days of summer...by Rod O'Connor.

We tested 5 classic hot-dog stands to see which Chicago-style red hot comes out on top.

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Media Digest for the week of July 11, 2007

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

When life gives you basilico, make pesto, the Ligurians say...Kevin Pang reports from Genoa, Italy on the 'green passion' and how it -- and region from which it originated -- are inseparable.

Returning to Sancerre...Bill Daley explains that the sauvignon blanc grapes which are grown in France's limestone-rich, Loire Valley comprise delicious, distinctive Sancerre, which is a great match for "summer's fresh flavors . . ." Tasting notes are included.

Shiso...Bill Daley files this useful guide.

Sweet heaven in a tube...in this special to the Tribune, Joe Ray sings the praises of Cannoli, from its birthplace, Modica, Sicily.

That's one hot cocktail...in this special to the Tribune, Nancy Maes reports on the growing popularity of chiles in cocktails. Recipes from some local restaurants are also provided.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section: (beware the highly annoying and invasive pop-up streaming windows)

Winners of 'The Color Purple' recipe contest...Sandy Thorn Clark reports the results of this recently-completed Sun-Times competition. Ms. Clark also advises on What you'll need, to pull off a successful picnic. Also provided is a list of Picnic food safety essentials.

Streetwise, Chicago food...Dave Hoekstra profiles author Norwood Park native Mike Baruch and takes a look at his new book, Street Food Chicago, which he says "sizzles with Chicago character . . ."

French connection...with Bastille Day coming up on Saturday, Denise I. O'Neal rounds up a few places in town that are offering dishes and programs to help diners celebrate.

Pairs with flair...Celeste Busk visits the recently-opened A.Vision Chicago, a shop in Ukrainian Village which " . . . offers customers suggestions on pairing flowers and wine."

Apricots and plums meld to yield two tasty fruits...Lisa Donovan reports that 2 cross-bred fruits, apriums and pluots, are gaining popularity.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at DiPescara, Kit Kat Lounge and The Bottle Shop.

From the July 10 edition:
Five for Frying...in this week's installment, LTH'er Mike Nagrant sits down with Mindy Friedler and Mark Bires of Jerry's Sandwiches, which recently opened its second location.
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From the July 10 edition of NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

This American Plant Life...LTH'er Mike Nagrant explains that his recent obsession with home gardening has improved the quality of his life and his cooking.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 11, 2007

From this week's Time Out Chicago - Eat Out section:

Save this restaurant...this week, LTH'er Mike (King Of All Media) Nagrant, says that Filipino, Tapsilog At Iba Pa, in west Rogers Park, needs our love.

Farmers’ market find...Lisa Futterman discovers the Michigan sour cherries at the Logan Square Farmers' Market.

The hot seat...Kevin Hickey of Seasons straps in this week.

Bag it...in this week's segment, Kirsten Anderson id's Ziing, a Thai-style iced coffee from restaurateur Joey Morelli of Joey’s Brickhouse.

Just opened: Heather Shouse visits Piccolo, and Sepia. David Tamarkin clocks in at The Violet Hour.
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Chefs on the Grill with Michael Nagrant...in this month's Chicago Magazine podcast, LTH'er Mike Nagrant sits down with Natalie Zarzour of Pasticceria Natalina in Andersonville.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Campfire cuisine: A little prep can make cooking almost gourmet...Annmarie Timmins provides some timely advice on how to get the most out of outdoor cooking.

Creating new dishes becomes an art form...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles Nicholas Lindsey, chef and general manager of Mundelein's Park Street Café.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 11, 2007

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

Up and Comers

A Neighborhood Restaurant With Downtown Food

Martha Bayne takes an in-depth look at Bonsoiree and the team behind it, Chenier and Shin Thompson. Also provided are reviews of 23 additional 'American Contemporary' spots, which were penned, in part, by LTH'ers David Hammond and Mike Sula.
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From the Chicago Reader's food and drink blog, The Food Chain:

Gene's Sausage taking over Meyer Delicatessen space...Mike Sula reports the happy news that Gene's will soon be moving into the former Meyer Delicatessen space in Lincoln Square.

Eating elsewhere: The Land of the Seven Moles...Mike Sula sings the praises of the glorious streetfood he discovered during his first trip to Oaxaca, Mexico last week.

What not to drink...Martha Bayne identifies Leinenkugel Sunset Wheat as "the worst beer of all time . . ."
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