Media Digest Addenda for the week of March 19, 2008

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

Teahouse in a Strip Mall...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula takes an in-depth look at Uzbezki "teahouse" Chaihanna, which is located in Buffalo Grove.

Also provided in this week's Reader are glimpses of 17 other worthy suburban joints, with the aforementioned Sula and fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond and Kristina Meyer contributing, as well.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Blog and Eat Out section:

Taste Quest: Humboldt Park...Rachel Finn maps out some of the best food in this north side neighborhood, where great Puerto Rican cuisine -- among others -- seems to never be more than a few blocks away.

Bag it...in this week's edition, David Tamarkin pegs the Elston Avenue outlet of Alterra coffee (a chain which is ubiquitous in Milwaukee) as stop-worthy.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

This Column is Made of Chocolate...in this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Chocolate Grape, a soon-to-open Wicker Park cafe that will focus on pairing chocolate and wine.

Smoke-Filled Rooms...Dennis Ray Wheaton says that "Chicago's best barbecue comes from a legion of savvy new pit masters," and he visits 6 of them.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Hog heaven...with Easter just around the corner, food editor Deborah Pankey provides a little ham tutorial -- with the help of Bruce Aidells.

Running kosher kitchen poses a different challenge...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Charles Phillips, executive chef of the Westin Chicago North Shore in Wheeling.

Lombard homebrewer hops into Sam Adams six-pack...Deborah Pankey profiles and interviews Lombard resident Rodney Kibzey, who won the recent Sam Adams American Homebrew Contest.
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Media Digest for the week of March 26, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Oil boom...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor spotlights the growing number of olive oil boutiques that are popping up around town, as well as the high-quality products they offer.

A new message on the bottle?...Bill Daley reports on pending legislation which would require wine makers to include a significant amount of information about how their products are made on their labels. He also checks in with one wine maker who's already doing it -- voluntarily.

White anchovies...in this week's In The Aisles, Bill Daley says that showcasing these little gems is the logical way to go.

Prescribing diet overhaul...in this special to the Tribune, Mark Graham reports on what the Harvard Medical School and The Culinary Institute of America are jointly advising in the fight against obesity.

A treasure-trove of community cooking...Renee Enna showcases several community-produced cookbooks, which have garnered some well-earned national attention via the annual Tabasco Community Cookbook Awards.

Calendar...Elizabeth Schiele compiles the Trib's weekly food-related calendar. The week's upcoming drink events are also listed.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Searching for true Southern cooking...North Carolina native Kevin Nance searches Chicago for fried chicken good enough to evoke memories from his childhood. A list of places in Chicago that offer [url=http://jump.suntimes.com/list.cfm?tag=soul%20food[/url]Southern cooking[/url] is also provided.

Demand sprouts for farmers markets...Lynne Marek reports on how demand has resulted in 3 new Chicago farmers' markets opening this season.

More diners have it their way...Allecia Vermillion reports on what some diners -- including a few who post here at LTHForum.com -- are doing to customize their restaurant dining experiences.

Shochu set to shine in Chicago...Lisa Donovan highlights this popular spirit and an upcoming restaurant which will be named after it.

Tastings...previews of upcoming culinary events that will take place in town this week.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of March 27, 2008

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

You Can’t Eat There...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles one restaurant at which even the most connected Chicagoans are going to have trouble getting a table.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of several places in town where prix fixe is the coin of the realm.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

At the time this entry was compiled and posted, there had been no applicable updates at Time Out Chicago.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

All Over the Map...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Miss Asia, a recently-opened pan-Asian spot in Lakeview. The Dish duo also give a well-deserved shout out to all the local folks who received final, 2008 Beard award nominations, which were announced earlier this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef thrives on creating food to fit the senior lifestyle...Lisa Ackleson profiles and inteviews David Koelling, ". . . Corporate Director of Hospitality and Dining Services for Senior Lifestyle Corp., where he oversees food service operations for 52 communities in 15 states."
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

My Favorite Things: The Remix...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant lists a few of his favorite recent culinary finds.
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Media Digest for the week of April 2, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

An oyster's kind of town...Bill Daley and the Good Eating crew go inside the shell, so to speak, and provide a useful primer on these tasty bivalves, which are especially accessible here in Chicago because of our central location. Additional information about gauging their freshness, how to eat raw oysters and how to shuck them is also provided.

Housewares hotties...Renee Enna highlights 5 items that captured her attention at the recently completed International Home & Housewares Show, which took place last month at McCormick Place.

Beer of the Month...this month, Jerald O'Kennard spotlights Ommegang Hennepin Farmhouse Ale.

Calendar...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up the week's upcoming food events. Drink events are also listed.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Treasure aisles...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes reports that some of the most interesting food items can be found at stores which aren't normally thought of as food stores. A couple of LTHers are quoted in the piece, including Cynthia Clampitt and yours truly. Included with the piece is a comprehensive list of applicable stores in the Chicago area.

Just checking: Hockey wines put to test...James Scalzitti reports on the NHL Alumni Association's Signature Wine Series, which has
Blackhawk greats Bobby Hull and Tony Esposito as spokesmen. Tasting notes are included. In another sports-related wine story, Denise I. O'Neal reports on 512 Chardonnay, a wine named for Cubs HOF'er Ernie Banks; proceeds from the sales of which will be donated to charity.

Spork, meet the Knork...Lisa Donovan reports on this new utensile from Kansas-based inventor Michael D. Miller, which is being sold on-line.

Flavors of Italy linger for U.S. chef...chef Heather Terhune of Atwood Cafe, recounts some of her favorite and not-so-favorite food memories.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming food events taking place in the area this week.

Weak dollar might mean pricier wine...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant reports on yet another food-related effect of the weakening dollar.

Two new ones ensure less mess in kitchen...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller provides brief, favorable reviews of a couple of useful, newly-released kitchen books.

From the March 28 edition:
Bulking up on bulk goods...K Tighe reports on several places in town where one can stock up on bulk goods.

From the March 27 edition:
Kicking the bottle, restaurants turn on the tap...Rummana Hussain reports on the growing battle in Chicago's restaurants between tap water and bottled water.
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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 April 2, 2008

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

The Donald and the Dude...this week, LTH contributor Mike Sula says that Trump's Sixteen shows surprising subtlety, while Martha Bayne reports that chef Michael Carlson's newly reopened Schwa is as brilliant as ever.

Also linked in this week's Reader are reviews of 9 other recently opened restaurants in town.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

2008 Eat Out Awards...The TOC crew reveals their annual results . . . one slowly-loading, clickable page at a time.

What's in a name...Laura Oppenheimer delivers the stories behind how certain properly named eateries and bars around town ended up with their monikers.

Save this restaurant...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that pan-Asian Guan Restaurant in Evanston needs our love.

Three-way...in this week's installment, David Tamarkin reveals what 3 local restaurants are currently doing with ramps.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Perennial Favorite...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that chef Ryan Poli is back in Chicago.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Pack your bag and an appetite...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on the growing popularity of food-focused travel among Chicagoans.

Chicago faces, tables crowd list of Beard nominees...Ms. Pankey rounds up the rather substantial list of locals who earned 2008 Beard Award nominations.

Experience spices up his approach to food...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Matt McMillin, executive chef of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprise's Big Bowl Restaurants.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Eaters Up!...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant takes a long, poetic road to an immutable truth: Chicago's ballpark food shows plenty of room for improvement.
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Media Digest for the week of April 9, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

'American Artisanal'...Good Eating excerpts a portion of American Artisanal: Finding the Country's Best Real Food, from Cheese to Chocolate, by Rebecca Gray. Also provided is some additional information from Ms. Gray, including profiles of Michigan-based Earthy Delights, Chicago-based Allen Brothers, and a list of sources for great artisanal foods.

Cookbooks deliver Passover recipes...Bill Daley delivers the mostly favorable details on 4 newly-released, Passover-related cookbooks.

Who's ready for dessert?...in this special to the Tribune, Rick Asa recaps last weekend's Sweets symposium, which was held at Kendall College. The symposium was the 2nd such event produced by the Greater Midwest Foodways Alliance, a relatively new organization which is propelled in no small part by LTH founding member Catherine Lambrecht.

Fruit beer, redefined...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor reports on the growing popularity and ongoing refinement of these fruit-based brews.

Petite? Not at all...Bill Daley fills in some blanks about "rough and ready" petite sirah.

'Martha Stewart's Wedding Cakes' review...a mostly favorable review of this new release, which was penned by Ms. Stewart and Wendy Kromer.

File powder...in this week's In the Aisles, Donna Pierce provides some useful information about this spice, which is often used in Creole cooking.

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

L.A. restaurant cries fowl over Chicago eatery's name...Kevin Pang reports on some legal action that hardly seems surprising and quotes LTHer Peter Engler in the process.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Behold the ramp...Jennifer Olvera reports from the recently-held, annual ramp dig that was held at Spence Farms in Fairbury, IL. Ms. Olvera also explores the popularity of ramps -- the first produce of spring -- among many area chefs, including Paul Virant of Vie in Western Springs.

Uncorking 'green' wines...Julianne Will reports on the rapidly growing Organic wine market.

Showtime for far-out edibles...Lisa Donovan visits with Travel Channel's food novelty act, Andrew Zimmern.

Kendall summer camp can lead to career...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on Kendall College's summer camp program, which can lead to some solid professional opportunities in the field.

Tastings around town...previews of culinary events taking place in town this week.
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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 April 9, 2008

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

What Iranians Really Eat...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula takes an in-depth look at Masouleh in Rogers Park, which specializes in home-style Persian food.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of 20 other places in Rogers Park, penned not only by the aforementioned Sula but also by fellow LTH'ers Gary Wiviott and David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Top nosh...Heather Shouse says the resourceful weekend brunch at Juicy Wine Co. is truly notable.

The hot seat...strapping in this week is chef Kurt Chenier of Bonsoirée.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

The Coolest Spot Ever...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby break the news that Dirk Flanigan and Billy Lawless -- the team behind The Gage -- will soon be opening another spot next door to The Gage, which promises to be, according to Flanigan "...one of the coolest spots in Chicago -- if not the coolest spot on Michigan Avenue." There's no word yet on whether the plans for the food will be as substantive.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Silicone's flexibility, durability works wonders in the kitchen...food editor Deborah Pankey adds to the chorus of praise.

Sweet! She has a love for pastries...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews Oak Park resident Kate Milashus, executive pastry chef at Room21 in Chicago.

Ethnic eateries dish out the best way to save a buck dining out...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes rounds up some of the best cheap eats in the burbs.

Local eateries celebrate spring...it's Leah Zeldes again, this time with a wrap up of what several suburban eateries are doing to celebrate Spring's arrival.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Cinful...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant previews Cinners, a Cincinnati-style chili joint in Lincoln Square, which has already garnered quite a bit of media attention this week.
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From today's edition of the Chicago Tribune:

Roscoe's comes first in chicken and waffles controversy...Kevin Pang follows up on the quickly dwindling bravado of Darnell Johnson, who agreed today -- under threat of legal action -- to change the name of his Bronzeville chicken and waffle restaurant . . . but not before raking in a huge windfall of free publicity.
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Media Digest for the week of April 16, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Macaroon migrations...with Passover just around the corner, the Good Eating staff provide this informative primer. Also provided are Tips for making macaroons (Barbara Revsine) and a couple of recipes from noted pastry chefs Sarah Levy and Mindy Segal.

Israeli wines gain in quality, popularity...Bill Daley reports that these are not the super sweet wines with which many of us grew up.

Reducing carbon footprint in the kitchen...in this special to the Tribune, George Erdosh reports on several ways we can get away from our environmentally wasteful habits in the kitchen.

A haven for Francophile foodies...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles Cook Au Vin, a new French grocery, cafe and takeout shop in Logan Square and the in-home cooking classes offered by LTHer's, Fig Catering.

Calendar and Drink Events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up the week's events in food and drink.

Tips for getting the best from those juice choices...the Good Eating staff advise to always check the labels, when it comes to buying juices.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

More than matzo...Sandy Thorn Clark says that matzoh's gone mainstream and she reports the details. In keeping with the Passover theme, a list of Jewish delis is provided.

Buy me some peanuts and... grass-fed beef...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports on some new menu items which will be offered at Chicago's professional baseball parks (insert current names here ) this season.

These popsicles meant for sour tooths...Lisa Donovan reports on the growing popularity of frozen dill pickles, which are making their way into all sorts of recipes and applications.

TV version of 'Top Chef' better than book...Misha Davenport says that the new 'Top Chef' cookbook has some hits and misses.

Chef pours her heart into bakery...this week, Michelle Garcia, owner of Bleeding Heart Bakery in Roscoe Village, trades in her spatula for a pen.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming food events taking place in town this week.

From the April 15 edition:
Goose's pub cooked...David Roeder reports on the upcoming closing of this extraordinarily popular Chicago institution.

Cookiemaker may not crumble, but leave...Sandra Guy follows up on the Maurice Lenell story and reports that there are several likely scenarios under which the bakery could leave Chicago.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of April 16, 2008

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

Three-Way the Right Way...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula follows up on an earlier entry in The Food Chain, with a more detailed look at Cinners, a newly-opened Cincinnati-style chili parlor in Lincoln Square.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of 19 other places in town where chili can be had, with several entries penned by LTHers Gary Wiviott and David Hammond.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Taste Quest: Hyde Park...Laura Oppenheimer maps out just a portion of the diverse wealth of food finds in this historic south side neighborhood.

Three-way...Melanie Moss reports on what 3 local restaurants are currently doing with seasonal gems, morels.

Oeno files...David Tamarkin assesses Quattro Mani Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Up to the Plate...Dining Editor Jeff Ruby has a humorous new music video on-line which, aside from being an homage to Bob Dylan, also features a very cute kid, and offers some insightful commentary on the life of a food critic.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Wealth of kosher products soup up Passover recipes...food editor Deborah Pankey touts several products from some fairly venerable producers.

Irish chef brings his love of Cajun cuisine to Gumbo A Go-Go...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews Patrick Reardon, chef and owner of Gumbo A Go-Go in Palatine.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Green-Market Dorks...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant profiles Allison and Rob Levitt and mado, their new, thoughtfully-conceived restaurant in Wicker Park.
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Media Digest for the week of April 23, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Help! What went wrong?...the Good Eating staff does their best to solve some cooking problems encountered by readers. Several 'case studies' are provided.

Hey, McCains, check out these REAL family recipes...in the wake of the recent McCain family recipe scandal, Emily Nunn points us to some genuine family recipes from a few other politicians.

Explore Greece's white wines for Orthodox Easter...with Greek Easter coming up this Sunday, Bill Daley suggests exploring some of Greece's white wines, which he reports, have "'acidity, aroma, lots of minerals.'"

Chicken fricassee greets milder spring days...Emily Nunn explains some of the fundamental differences between stews and fricassees. A recipe for fricassee is included.

In the Aisles: Red rice...Renee Enna touts this uncommon grain and suggests substituting it mainly for long-grain, white rice.

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

Brewskis & brie ...or cheddar ...or gouda ...or swiss...Allecia Vermillion reports on the happy pairing of beer and cheese and explains why they go together so well. Ms. Vermillion also reports on the fading popularity of some more traditional pairings: Traditional beverage pairings being washed to sidelines. A list of Midwest breweries is also provided, as is a list of some recommended beer and cheese pairings.

As weather warms, take a dip...Lisa Donovan reports on what was once marketed as "ice cream of the future": Dippin' Dots.

Community finds comfort in cafe...Seth Schwartz profiles Julie Welborn and Denise Nicholes, and their Perfect Peace Cafe and Bakery, which opened last summer in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood on Chicago's south side.

Tastings around town...previews of the upcoming week's food events. Additional events, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found in this week's Food news.

From the April 18 edition:
Shows that feed your head as well as your tummy...K. Tighe lists a few places in town where the show is as much a part of the dining experience as the 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 April 23, 2008

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

Best Bets by the Ballpark...this week's sort focuses on quality eats near Wrigley Field. LTH contributor Mike Sula reviews Cafe Orchid, Chip Dudley stops in at TAC Quick and Ann Sterzinger checks out Tango Sur.

Also provided in this week's Reader are brief reviews of 22 additional spots in Lakeview, with entries by the aforementioned Sula and LTH'ers David Hammond and Mike Gebert.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

A cork in the road...David Tamarkin provides a glimpse into the working lives of wine industry professionals.

Beer geekier...Tim McCormick provides a brief profile of Ray Daniels, author of Designing Great Beers and winner of the Beer Writer of the Year award.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse reports that 3 brews from Flossmoor Station Brewery are now available for purchase in the city.
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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 Trattoria Valle d'Itria, a newly-opened Italian spot the Ravinia section of Highland Park. Separately, the Dish duo also report that after opening 3 failed restaurants in recent years, Geno Bahena (known to some as the Eric Aubriot of regional Mexican food) will soon open Real Tenochtitlán on north Milwaukee Avenue.

Bring Your Own Good Bottle...Miriam Gottfried suggests a few pairings for some noted BYO restaurants in town.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Mexican heritage a key ingredient in his cooking...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Freddy Sanchez, executive chef of the Adobo Grill restaurants in Chicago.

Pressing matters...food editor Deborah Pankey provides a basic primer on panini, which she reports are growing in popularity and availability in Chicagoland.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Dancing with Tripe...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out Nelly's, a Romanian restaurant in Avondale, where he says they "have a way with tripe."
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Media Digest for the week of April 30, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

It's all about Cinco de Mayo in this week's Good Eating section . . .

Cooking with love...with Cinco de Mayo just around the corner, Bill Daley explains why Mexican food in Chicago is so popular, so distinctive, so authentic and so delicious. A brief quiz on some of Mexico's regional cuisine is also provided, as is a gallery of photographs, entitled Flavors of Mexico. Last (but not least), a glossary of some essential Mexican ingredients is provided, as this week's In the Aisles installment.

Sweet infatuation...Emily Nunn checks in with several local authorities on pastel de tres leches, a ubiquitous pastry than can rate anywhere from good to sublime.

They've got la cocina covered...Judy Hevrdejs files brief reviews of several useful Mexican cooking tomes.

A toast to bringing out flavor...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan explains why toasting (or roasting) chiles is such an important aspect of Mexican cuisine and provides solid instruction on how to do it yourself.

Five markets worth a visit...Monica Eng rounds up what she considers to be the best of the best.

Equipping a kitchen with the right tools...Judy Hevrdejs lists several kitchen items that are quite helpful in creating Mexican cuisine.

Forget the lime, go for flavor...Joe Gray provides tasting notes on several Mexican beers and comments also on how they match up with certain foods.

Mexican cooking classes...Emily Nunn compiles a useful list of places to get schooled.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Taste in transition...Julianne Will profiles Chopsticks Dining Club and its founder, ZJ Tong. Ms. Will then checks in with LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott, who shares his expertise on secret menus. Also provided is an interactive list of Chinatown restaurants.

It's easy to get your fill of flax these days...Lisa Donovan reports that this healthful seed is becoming easier to find in products, even at some very mainstream stores.

New takes on tofu, wine at food show...Julianne Will recaps the Global Food and Style Expo, which was held recently at McCormick Place.

At the chef's table...this week, Mark Payne, executive chef at the Ritz-Carlton, takes up the pen and declares his love of rhubarb.

Tastings around town...previews of the week's upcoming events in food. Additional industry event information, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of April 30, 2008

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

The ’Shroomer Who Shares...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles Milan Pelouch, an expert in the elusive ways of the morel who, atypically, is happy to share his knowledge.

Doing Their Part...brief reviews of 19 green-leaning restaurants and shops, including a submission from LTH'er David Hammond.

Farmers' Markets...a listing of some of the city's favored markets, sorted by the day of the week on which they take place. Also provided is a monthly index of produce at its peak.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The hot seat...chef Tony Galzin of the Libertine straps in this week.

Sound bytes...Lori Barrett reports on how some food web sites are following a model previously established by music web sites to deliver targeted content to their users.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Zweiban Goes Indie...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Randy Zweiban, executive chef and partner at Nacional 27, will step down to open Province, which he expects to bow this fall.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Taste the Yucatan...food editor Deborah Pankey explains what makes this distinctive cuisine so special.

Creativity takes over when bluprint chef steps in the kitchen...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews Sam Burman, chef de cuisine at bluprint restaurant and lounge in Chicago.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Tapped Out?...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant asks a delicate question about Tufano’s Vernon Park Tap . . . has it slipped from veteran to venerable?
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Media Digest for the week of May 7, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Just like Mom used to bake...Renee Enna reports on the substantial differences in quality between old fashioned baking traditions and modern, industrialized products. Ms. Enna also lays out some additional facts in Cakes: Myths and tips. In this accompanying piece, Have your cake, and eat it too, Ms. Enna provides some tips for cutting even cake slices. Last, Ms. Enna provides a pep talk of sorts in urging folks to try baking from scratch: Step away from the box.

Gordon Ramsay tones it down for real life...Emily Nunn catches Gordon Ramsay rationalizing out loud about why he allows himself to act like such a miscreant on his American tv show.

Casseroles for the 21st Century...Donna Pierce files a brief, favorable review of Bake Until Bubbly: The Ultimate Casserole Cookbook, by Clifford A. Wright.

Calendar, drink events...Elizabeth Schiele rounds up the week's events in food and drink.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Their kind of town...Maureen Jenkins reports on the growing trend of celebrity chefs from other cities trying to capitalize on the current culinary scene and establish roots here in Chicago. And in this side bar, a list of such outposts is provided: On the scene.

Sunflower oil brightens up couple's kitchen...Lisa Donovan reports that the key to recreating Spanish-style food is sunflower oil.

Yogurt, the comeback kid...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant reports and comments on the burgeoning resurgence of frozen yogurt in Chicago.

The improbable tomato...Mike Nagrant profiles Michigan's Toddy McWethy and his McWethy Farms, which is turning out hydroponically-grown heirloom tomatoes that can be found in a number of Chicago restaurants and -- on a retail basis -- at the Fish Guy Market on Mondays.

Tastings around town...previews of the week's upcoming food-related events. Additional food-industry news can be found here.

In the know...the ubiquitous Mike Nagrant chats with chef Jose Garces of Mercat a la Planxa.
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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 May 7, 2008

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

Whole-Hog Tapas, Ukrainian Pastries, and Chicken Lollipops...this week's Reader focuses on a few newbs; LTH contributor Mike Sula scouts Mercat a la Planxa and Take Me Out, while Anne Spiselman checks out Shokolad Pastry & Cafe.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Beyond peanuts and Cracker Jacks...David Tamarkin pits Wrigley against the Cell in a battle of Chicago's ballpark culinary offerings.

Active culture club...Heather Shouse compares several local sources for frozen yogurt.

Save this restaurant...David Tamarkin writes that Haro needs our love.

Best outdoor dining views...a quick overview of some of the city's more distinctive outdoor dining settings.

Three-way...Heather Shouse checks out what 3 local restaurants are currently doing with soft-shell crabs.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby recommend Mixteco Grill on west Montrose, from chef/owner Raul Arreola, an 11-year veteran of Frontera Grill.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef becomes a fixture at Wheeling restaurant...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews chef Emilio Hernandez of Don Roth's Blackhawk in Wheeling.

A toast for Mom -- French toast, that is...with Mother's Day coming up on Sunday, food editor Deborah Pankey makes a perfect gift suggestion . . . and provides a few recipes for said gift in the process.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Partners in Crime...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant recommends "the Beverly-Bi," a meal at Top Notch Burger followed by dessert at Rainbow Cone.
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Foie Gras-powered Media Digest for the week of May 14, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

City Council reverses foie gras ban...Dan Mihalopoulos reports the happy news.

The greening of Chicago...Elizabeth Owens-Schiele previews the exciting new farmers' market season, which unofficially starts today with the opening of the Green City Market.

Label confusion...Bill Daley attempts to shed some light on Italian wine label terminology, which can be challenging, even for experienced oenophiles.

Feeling the supermarket pinch as food prices rise...Emily Nunn reports on what analysts predict consumers will do to help offset rising food costs. And in this releated piece, The queen of Leftover Land, Ms. Nunn profiles Pat Salani, the self-proclaimed Leftover Queen. 10 ways to save at the supermarket are also provided.

In the Aisles: Pettole abruzzesi...Joe Gray touts this relatively uncommon variety of dried pasta.

Wilton Products celebrates 80th anniversary...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles this local producer of bakeware and confectionery supplies.

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

The spirits move them...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor reports that many craft breweries are spreading their wings and getting into spirit crafting, as well.
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From today's (extremely slow-loading) Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

City repeals foie gras ban...Fran Spielman reports the liver-liscious news from City Hall.

Chicago's Most Wanted...Allecia Vermillion profiles Michael Carlson's Schwa and reports that it's Chicago's toughest to obtain restaurant reservation.

Defining the hotness factor...still on the subject of hot restaurants, Ms. Vermillion previews L20, which is bowing tonight. And in this related piece, Playing the waiting game, Ms. Vermillion lists the wait times to secure reservations at some of Chicago's most popular restaurants.

Mace has sweet, mild flavor all its own...Lisa Donovan 'discovers' the outside of the nutmeg.

Shaking up Chicago martinis...Denise I. O'Neal reviews the current martini scene in Chicago.

Big love for the tiny pea...chef Kevin Hickey, executive chef of Seasons, declares his love for this Spring favorite. A recipe for Spring pea risotto is also provided.

Raising the bar on bar food...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles Tony and Cathy Mantuano of Spiaggia and their new cookbook, Wine Bar Food. A couple recipes from the book are also provided.

Tastings around town...previews of the upcoming week's food events. Additional food-industry news, reported by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here: Food 411.

From the May 13 edition:
Beer bash outgrows itself...Mike Thomas reports from the Glunz Global Beer Expo, which has grown so rapidly, it's taking place in a new home this year.
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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 May 14, 2008

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

On the Trail of the Delta Tamale...in this week's Omnivorous column, in a prelude to Southern Foodways' upcoming Camp Chicago, LTH contributor Mike Sula sets out on the trail of Mississippi Delta tamales in Chicago, along with fellow LTH'er Peter Engler.

More Bliss on a Bun...brief reviews of some noted places in town where out-of-hand treats can be had. Included here are submissions from several LTH'ers: the aforementioned Sula, David Hammond and Mike Gebert.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Market down...TOC's handy-dandy list of the best area farmers' markets, sorted by day.

The hot seat....chef Ben Roche of moto takes the heat this week.

The beer geek...Heather Shouse quaffs Houblon Chouffe Dobbelen IPA Tripel, which is available at The Map Room.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Down By Foie...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby provide some exclusive details on the repeal of Chicago's foie gras ban.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Unswayed...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that in spite of a series of missteps, Veerasway's beautiful food and innovative concept remain promising.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

At the time of this posting, there was no locally-penned content posted in this week's Food section.
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Media Digest for the week of May 21, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Ready, set ... grill!...Lisa Futterman continues Good Eating's series of articles about useful cooking tools and ingredients by focusing on grilling and some tools that will make the task easier, more fun and hopefully, produce better results, as well. Accompanying Ms. Futterman's piece is a list of places where various gadgets can be purchased and a wire service list of newly-released cookbooks which focus on BBQ and Grilling: Recipes with a fresh approach to grilling in new cookbooks.

Mario Batali brings Italian flavors to the American grill...Emily Nunn profiles Mario Batali and his newest cookbook, Mario Batali Italian Grill.

For picnic wines, think bright, think crisp, think refreshing...Bill Daley chats with some local experts about pairing wines with typical picnic fare.

Turning the stove top into a grill...in an effort to approximate grilling, Renee Enna tests and compares several makes of grill pans.

Gluten-Free Grocery opens in Westchester...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor checks out Gluten-Free Grocery, which opened recently.

Elusive serviceberries bring old-fashioned flavor to pie...Donna Pierce gets to the bottom of the (service)berry.

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

Farmers are coming to your neighborhood...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller previews the kick off of the Farmers' Market season, focusing on the Green City Market and the Daley Plaza Market.

Get it while it's fresh...Bill Cunniff compiles a comprehensive list of Chicagoland farmers' markets, which is divided into geographical areas (city, suburban regions) and sorted alphabetically. A list of local CSA's (Community Supported Agriculture), which deliver is also provided. Relatedly, a list what produce is in season, sorted by month, is also provided: What's in season.

An experiment in Bronzeville...Lynne Marek previews the new, experimental Bronzeville 'hybrid market,' which is being backed by the city of Chicago.

Gluten-free fried chicken draws crowd...Lisa Donovan investigates the new roll-out from Ina's.

On South Side, it's all relative...Dave Hoekstra previews the upcoming Camp Chicago, which is being organized by the Southern Foodways Alliance and will feature LTH'er Peter Engler, who will conduct a south-side tour of eateries where the mother-in-law delicacy can be found.

Taste testing the All Candy Expo...Kevin Allen reports from the sweetest trade show of all, which is taking place in Chicago this week.

A look at restaurant show, from chef's point of view...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes shadows Rick Bayless and gets his take on the NRA's annual show, which took place in Chicago earlier this week.

In the Know...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant chats with another LTH'er, Louisa Chu, about various aspects of the Chicago food scene.

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

Chicago to host gourmet food fest...an advance preview of Chicago Gourmet, which will have its inaugural run this September at Millennium Park.

Fox & Obel coming to Carson's building...Sandra Guy reports the early details.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of May 21, 2008

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

Shack Season...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula provides an overview of some of his favorite spots in Chicago for barbecue, including Lem's, Cole’s Choice Barbecue and Honey 1. LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott checks out Uncle John's.

Also provided in this week's Reader are reviews of several more spots around town where barbecue can be had, with contributions by the aforementioned Sula and Wiviott, as well as fellow LTH'er David Hammond.

The Dirt Makes It Delicious...Mike Sula profiles Blue Mound, Wisconsin's Willi Lehner and his Bleu Mont Dairy where, as Sula reports, the terroir has a profound influence on the award-winning cheeses that are being produced.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Grill power...Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin check in with the cooks that handle the hottest stations in town -- the grills -- to find the best advice on how to grill like a professional.

Mixed greens...in this new feature, noted mixologist Peter Vestinos will visit area farmers' markets and create a cocktail based on the produce he finds there. This week, he uses the Thai lime basil from the Federal Plaza Market to create a couple of different libations.

Oeno files...David Tamarkin provides notes on Abbazia di Novacella’s 2006 Kerner.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

French Kiss...in this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that BB's on Hubbard Street is being reconcepted into a 1960's-style French brasserie that will be called Madame Tartine.

The Tale of the Taco...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant details 7 great tacos that can be had around town. This piece references Cinco de Mayo but no holiday is needed to enjoy the goods on this list.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Dipping in the L20...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says L.20 is all that and wonders if it might not already be Chicago's best restaurant.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Versatile terrine dishes not bound by tradition...food editor Deborah Pankey talks up the terrine as a great, under-used mode for cooking.

Burgers still king of the grill, no matter the seasons...as Memorial Day approaches, Ms. Pankey reports that burgers still dominate family grills nationwide.

White Chocolate chef loves creating dishes to nourish the body...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews chef Robert Kabakoff, director of culinary operations and partner at The White Chocolate Grill in Naperville.
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Media Digest for the week of May 28, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Hot dog, haute dog!...Bill Daley reports on Good Eating's challenge to 5 well-known Chicago chefs to come up with their own versions of Chicago-style dogs, with one parameter being that the creations had be executable by home chefs. Recipes for the creations are provided.

Dispelling the myths about diabetes and diet...nutrition expert Janet Helm tries to sort through the confusion and misinformation about what exactly diabetics need to eat to keep their disease in check.

Battling pinot grigio's not so smart image...Bill Daley checks in with some local experts in search of the better stuff, which contrasts greatly with the image of this too often dismissed varietal.

New wine shipping laws go into effect June 1...in another vine-related piece, Mr. Daley reports that the somewhat controversial wine shipping law that has been looming for some months will go into effect beginning on June 1, so stock up while you can!

Anatomy of a smoothie...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan explains the fundamentals of smoothie making.

In the Aisles: Grana padano cheese...in this week's installment of In the Aisles, Renee Enna touts this imported Italian cheese, which is made Lombardy's Po Valley.

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

Grrrill power...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles Catherine Mayhew, author of Handy Mom's Guide to Grilling: The Fast, Easy Way to Smokin' Meals! and member of an all-female competition barbecue team known as Chicks in Charge. And in a related piece, some grilling advice for beginners is provided: 'Chick' griller's advice for beginners. A few recipes are also linked.

Commercial's no joke; the cilantro allergy exists...Lisa Donovan reports that cilantro allergies do exist but they are rare and more often than not have very little to do with how cilantro tastes.

Making a Southern tradition our own...Chuck Sudo checks in with LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott, as he reports on Chicago's rapidly-growing barbecue scene.

Texans get fired up at the World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest...Lori Rackl reports from this event, which took place in Houston back in March. Also provided is a list of Houston's best barbecue joints, extracted from Robb Walsh's Legends of Texas Barbecue . A related list of Chicago-area spots where Texas traditions can be found (not entirely food-focused), is also provided: Texas in Chicago.

The emphasis is on fun...Sandy Thorn Clark reports from the recently-completed All Candy Expo, which took place at McCormick Place last week.

At the chef's table...this week, chef/owner Michael Tsonton of Copperblue explains what a huge difference using fresh herbs and spices can make in one's cooking.

Kool-Aid cutting back on the sugar...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on the repositioning of this major retail brand.

Tastings around town...a preview of the week's upcoming food-related events. Additional industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

From the May 24 edition:
Lincoln Park Zoo cafe goes organic...Andrew Herrmann reports on the debut of The Cafe at Wild Things, Lincoln Park Zoo's all-organic eatery.

From the May 23 edition:
Goodbye trans-fat fries...Cheryl V. Jackson reports from the McDonald's Corporation's annual meeting, where it was announced that the company's french fries are now trans-fat-free at all of their U.S. and Canadian stores.
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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 May 28, 2008

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

Books for Cooks...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula rounds up the Spring season's best new book releases in food and beverage.

Also in this week's Reader, the sort is focused on the North Center part of town, with reviews of several eateries there, including a couple penned by the aforementioned Sula, as well as fellow LTH'er Mike Gebert.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Sweet Avenues...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Dennis Ray Wheaton's upcoming -- and positively glowing -- review of Avenues, which is now helmed by former Alinea sous chef, Curtis Duffy.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Tips for making the most of your farmers market trips...with the produce season upon us, Lisa Ackleson advises on how to maximize one's trips to the farmers' market. Relatedly, food editor Deborah Pankey offers some tips on how to keep those market purchases at their freshest. And finally, the Herald provides their list of this year's area markets, divided into 2 sections (suburbs and city) and sorted alphabetically.
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Media Digest for the week of June 4, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

So many recipes, so little time...in this piece and a few related links, Renee Enna provides some guidance to all of us recipe addicts on how to get organized and consolidate our collections into cohesive, personalized 'cookbooks.'

Cooking in the global kitchen with Marie Simmons...Emily Nunn profiles Marie Simmons and her new book, Things Cooks Love: Implements. Ingredients. Recipes.

Catching hold of the rye...test kitchen director Donna Pierce provides some insight on how to replicate a popular flour that's no longer available on retail shelves.

Good Eating at Printers Row Book Fair...a schedule of what will be taking place at the Good Eating stage at this weekend's event.

Organic go-to guide...Renee Enna files a brief, favorable review of The Organic Food Shopper's Guide, by Jeff Cox.

Samuel Adams Boston Ale...Jerald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month installment.

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

Child like?...Julianne Will explores 3 cookbooks that are designed to encourage kids to eat healthfully. Links to recipes from each of the cookbooks are also provided.

Octopus is finding spot on local menus...food detective Lisa Donovan discovers that octopus is showing up on more and more Chicago-area menus.

Foie gras returns to city dining scene...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes reports that with the foie gras ban now lifted, some area chefs are reworking their menus to include it and other chefs never stopped serving it to begin with. Included is a list of various area restaurants' foie gras preparations, also compiled by Ms. Zeldes.

In the Know...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant queries chef Laurent Gras of L.20.

Tastings around town...previews of the upcoming week's food and wine related events. Additional industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 4, 2008

From the June 5 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Seasonal Simplicity and Ethnic Complexity...this week's Reader focuses on the new stuff. LTHers Mike Sula and David Hammond check out Mado and Mixteco Grill respectively, while Anne Spiselman scouts Veerasway.

Also provided in this week's Reader are reviews of several more spots around town which have recently opened, with contributions from aforementioned LTHers Sula and Hammond.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Of Cheez-Its and Lamb Loins...in this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby provide a promising sneak peek of Graham Elliot, which opened quietly last Friday. Don't expect that quiet to last long.

Best New Restaurants...Dennis Ray Wheaton and Jeff Ruby list Chicago Mag's 21 best new spots for the past 12 months.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Cheap eats...Heather Shouse, David Tamarkin, Julianne Will and Lisa Shames trail 7 area chefs, as they visit some of their favorite spots for inexpensive, ethnic dining.

The Artisan: Amy Cox...David Tamarkin profiles and interviews the founder of Cutting Edge Culinary & Garden Consulting and reports on how her illness inspired one of the areas true culinary treasures.

Stuck on you...Lisa Shames tracks the use of Activa transglutaminase (aka meat glue) in a few local restaurants and explains that it's one ingredient which helps chefs "channel their inner Dr. Frankenstein and cobble together heretofore unseen creations."

Three-way...David Tamarkin checks out what 3 local chefs are doing with strawberries.
Mixed greens...Peter Vestinos continues his series on market-inspired libations via the use of honeycomb and fruit jams, both of which can be found at various farmers' markets around town.

The hot seat...chef John Caputo of A Mano, Bin 36 and Bin Wine Cafe straps in this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Cooking gets his creative juices flowing...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews Cary native Andrew Shedden, executive chef of the Onion Pub and Brewery in Lake Barrington.

Chicago bakery can satisfy wheat tooth...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles Patty Stewart and her gluten-free bakery, Whole Bakers.

Firehouse chef learns from the experts...an apparently writerless profile of foodie and firehouse chef John Bzdusek of the Lake Zurich Fire Department.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Bowles Breaks Out...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant provides some early, promising notes on Graham Elliot.
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Media Digest for the week of June 11, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

To the source...in this special to the Tribune, Terra Brockman attempts to demystify vanilla by charting its history and traveling to one of its current sources to provide a detailed look at its cultural significance. A couple of applicable recipes are also provided.

Chicago chefs Achatz and Nahabedian win Beard Awards...Stevenson Swanson reports the results from New York, where the 2008 Beard awards ceremony took place last Sunday night.

Stephanie Izard dishes 'Top Chef' finale, future...with the finale of Top Chef Chicago airing tonight, Joe Gray chats with local favorite Stephanie Izard, who says she's scouting locations for a new Chicago restaurant.

Buy Dad a big, bold wine on his day...Bill Daley makes some recommendations for what to give the dad who may have everything else.

In the Aisles: Feijoa...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix reports that feijoa season is at its peak and will tail off as June ends.

Italian market capitalizes on a restaurant's success...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles Sal Sciortino and his newly-opened Toscanino Italian Market & Catering, which is an offshoot of his successful Brookfield restaurant, Trattoria Gemelli.

A call for nominees...the crew at Good Eating are now soliciting nominations for this year's round of awards.

Calendar, Drink events...Elizabeth Schiele previews the week's upcoming events in food and beverage, which includes an appearance this Saturday by LTH contributor and expert locavore, Rob Gardner (aka Vital Information).
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Father and son's life revolves around pizza...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles Chris ("Big Frankie") Favero and his father Nino, the 2nd and 3rd generations of a longtime, Chicago pizza-making family. Links to recipes are provided.

Say (Italian) cheese, and the varieties are endless...Missy Robbins, executive chef at Spiaggia, pens this week's At the Chef's Table installment, with an informative missive on Italian cheeses.

This year's Taste will cost you a little more...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that just like with about everything else, the price of Taste of Chicago is going up this year.

One singular sensation...Seth Schwartz profiles Finnie Haire, proprietor of Haire's Gulf Shrimp and reports that a key ingredient in his success is based on one of Haire's mother's recipes.

Cinner's does chili just like Cincy likes it...Lisa Donovan files this feature on Tony Plum and his new venture.

Tastings around town...previews of the week's upcoming food events.

From the June 10 edition:
10 reasons Stephanie is Chicago's 'Top Chef'...Misha Davenport takes a cursory look at Chicago chef Stephanie Izard's participation in season 4 of Bravo's Top Chef, which wraps up tonight.

From the June 9 edition:
Achatz wins Beard honor as most outstanding chef...Lisa Donovan reports a few of the details on chef Achatz's big win at this year's Beard awards, which took place last Sunday.
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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 11, 2008

From the June 12 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

From Roast Pig to Long Pig...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles author Carole Travis-Henikoff and her new book, Dinner With a Cannibal: The Complete History of Mankind’s Oldest Taboo.

Also provided in this week's Reader is a guide to Al Fresco dining, in which to several LTH'ers make contributions, including the aforementioned Sula, as well as David Hammond and Mike Gebert.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

Italian Kicks, Cheap Tricks...in this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Carol Watson, who recently closed her Milk & Honey Bake Shop, plans to convert the space into an Italian deli called Cipollina.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

At the time of this posting, there was no new content available at the 'Restaurants & Bars' section of TOC's web site.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Irreverent book can help you get to 'Sveltsville'...Don Mauer files a favorable review of All is Forgiven, Move On: Our Lady of Weight Loss's 101 Fat-Burning Steps on Your Journey to Sveltesville," by Janice Taylor.

A day to celebrate dads and decorating...food editor Deborah Pankey highlights some items that might make great gifts for Fathers Day.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Hangin' with Mr. Cooper...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant profiles mezcal maven Ron Cooper, whose artisanal Del Maguey Mezcals are making a quiet but profound impact on the spirits scene.
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Media Digest for the week of June 18, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Dips and chips enter the 21st Century...Emily Nunn reports that today's dips, while novel, should definitely be taken seriously. Several recipes are linked, as well.

A rosé summer...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley recommends Spanish rosé and says it's great when the weather warms up and excellent when paired with foods that are typically served during that warmer weather.

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

If you can't stand the expense . . . get back in the kitchen...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles Connie Fairbanks, food budgeting expert and author of Scratch That: Seasonal Menus & Perfect Pairings. Links to a couple of recipes from the book are also provided.

Low-cost lunches can taste great, be healthy...Francine Knowles provides some information on how to prepare low-cost lunches beyond typical sandwiches.

New chips offer a surge of caffeine...think you've seen everything in snackfood? Lisa Donovan reports otherwise.

Winning a Beard has folks asking......Denise I. O'Neal reports on some of the menu offerings at Alinea and NaHa, whose chefs Grant Achatz and Carrie Nahabedian, both won Beard awards last week.

Another chapter is beginning...Sandy Thorn Clark files this feature on chef Curtis Duffy, who recently took over the kitchen at Avenues in the Peninsula Hotel. A recipe from chef Duffy is also provided.

In the know...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant chats with chef Sean Eastwood of Isabella's Estiatorio and the upcoming Olo.

Medals for state wines flow freely...Lynne Marek reports about her experience as a judge at the recently-held Illinois State Fair Wine Competition where, naturally, all the winners were from Illinois.

Tomatoes going back on the menu...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that in the wake of the recent salmonella outbreak, tomatoes are reappearing on fast-food (and other) menus.

From the June 12 edition:
Stephanie Izard slices the competition to become the 'Top Chef'...Misha Davenport wraps up local chef Stephanie Izard's big win.
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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 18, 2008

From the June 19 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Bowles’s Big Shoes...in this week's Omnivorous column, LTH contributor Mike Sula reviews (the new) Avenues and Zed 451, while Anne Spiselman checks out Jack Rabbit.

Also provided in this week's Reader is In The Neighborhood . . . reviews of 23 River North restaurants which rated 7.5/10 or higher. Contributions here are penned by the aforementioned Sula, as well as fellow LTHers David Hammond and Seth Zurer..
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby interview local hero, chef Stephanie Izard who, last week, was announced as the winner of Top Chef-Chicago.

Front Burner: Graham Elliot Bowles...watch video of chef Bowles preparing his signature Halibut BLT. A recipe for the dish is also provided.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Taste Quest: Albany Park...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant maps out a baker's dozen of excellent edibles found in this north side neighborhood.

Have you seen me?...the ubiquitous Nagrant catches up with some top area chefs who have stepped off the firing line and finds out what they're currently doing.

Mixed greens...in this week's installment, Peter Vestinos creates a libation using Mick Klug Farms’ strawberries, which can be found at Green City Market.

The hot seat...chefs Rob and Allison Levitt of Mado are featured this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Iced tea, lemonade define the season...food editor Deborah Pankey examines several different methods and recipes for making these classic seasonal beverages.

Latin flavors influence his Mediterranean food...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews chef Ezequiel "Zee" Otero, of Artistic Cuisine and Gourmet Pizzas in Palatine.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

The Drake Hotel’s Bookbinder soup...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant explains why the Bookbinder soup at the Drake Hotel's Coq D’ Or is worthy of building a tradition around.
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Media Digest for the week of June 25, 2008

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Dried cherries now expand the market to year-round...with the fresh tart cherry season nearly upon us, Susan Taylor reports on how dried cherry processing has created a year-round market, especially for growers in Michigan. Several recipes are linked, as well.

The all-Americans...Bill Daley makes several 4th of July-friendly wine recommendations.

Order in the kitchen...in this week's installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan explains the ins and outs of mise en place.

In the aisles: Culantro...in this week's segment, Donna Pierce provides some background on this potent herb (and no, she doesn't mean cilantro).

Point Cascade Ale...Jerrald O'Kennard files his Beer of the Month feature.

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

In the ring...LTH contributor Leah A. Zeldes reports that while Chicago's donut scene shows room for improvement, the area is dotted with establishments which produce exemplary goods. Quoted in the piece are LTH contributors Peter Engler and Rob Gardner. Relatedly, Ms. Zeldes provides a bit of historical information about donuts in this piece: Thank the Dutch!. Also provided are a glossary of donut definitions and a list of several other notable donut shops (not compiled by Ms. Zeldes).

New gizmo creates fine wine in mere minutes...Lisa Donovan reports on a device which claims to age wine in 30 minutes.

Going to bat for charity...Sandy Thorn Clark reports on the friendship between local chefs Kevin Hickey (Ritz-Carlton) and Carrie Nahabedian (NaHa) and how their Cubs-Sox rivalry has been put to use to greatly benefit some local charities.

Research puts chef on the road...in this week's installment of At the chef's table, executive chef/managing partner John Coletta of Quartino reports on how he uses trips to Italy to help develop his menu.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming, food-related events taking place this week. Additional food-industry news, compiled by Denise I. O'Neal, can be found here.

Hot items for grilling season...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up some choice finds to help improve your grilling season.

From the June 21 edition:
Association to discontinue specialty food show...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that after 9 years, the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade has decided to cut its annual Spring Fancy Food Show in Chicago, mainly due to lack of interest on the part of exhibitors.
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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 25, 2008

From the June 26 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Exotic Feasts on the Cheap...this week's Omnivorous column goes off the beaten path as LTH contributor Mike Sula shines the spotlight on Pho Xua, Lincoln Restaurant and Taqueria la Oaxaqueña, while fellow LTH'er David Hammond illuminates us on Restaurant Ecuador.

Also provided in this week's Reader is Hidden Gems . . . reviews of 19 more not-so-well-known favorites, including entries by the aforementioned Sula and Hammond, as well as LTHForum.com frontman, Gary Wiviott.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that part of the team which opened Powerhouse late last year, including executive chef John Peters, has departed.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

6 wines for $60 (Plus, the story of Craig Perman)...David Tamarkin profiles wine collector Craig Perman and his relatively new shop, Perman Wine Selections.

Three-way...a report on what 3 local restaurants are currently doing with basil seeds.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Beans, vegetables, soy protein bulk up burgers...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on a few different schools of thought regarding burger augmentation.

Here's your guide to waste and taste...Ms. Pankey provides some storage tips that are designed to help maximize the shelf life of your groceries.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Food & Drink section:

Just Ducky...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant lays some effusive and well-deserved praise on Sun Wah BBQ, and their relatively new Beijing Duck service.
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Media Digest Addendum for the week of June 25, 2008

From the June 26 edition of the Reader:

Best of Chicago 2008...the crew at the Reader publish their annual 'best of' list, with several restaurant and food & drink-related categories. Editors' selections were made by (among others) LTH'ers Mike Sula, Gary Wiviott, David Hammond and Mike Gebert. Also listed are the readers' choice selections, which seem a bit more dubious.

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