Media Digest Addenda for the week of April 22, 2009

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

What's New...in this week's Reader, the focus is on the newbs, with early reviews of Sunda by LTH contributor Mike Sula, Pintxos Tortilleria & Bar by Anne Spiselman and Amelia’s Bar & Grill by Martha Bayne.

New Too...brief reviews of 7 additional new spots -- most by the aforementioned Sula -- with Anne Spiselman and Julia Thiel contributing, as well.
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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 Phoebe Walters, proprietor of the newly-opened Phoebe's Cupcakes in Lakeview. The Dish Duo also give a shout-out to LTHForum.com's frontman, Gary Wiviott, whose Low & Slow method book -- written with Colleen Rush -- will be released later this month.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

A wee bite cheaper...Heather Shouse identifies a few recession-friendly, happy hour food deals around town.

The bar that isn’t...David Tamarkin reports that some of the best cocktails in town are actually served at restaurants, not bars.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Faith, passion for good food launch chef's career...Lisa Ackleson profiles and interviews chef and restaurant consultant Alan Pirhofer, who's spent time cooking in some of Chicago's most well-known kitchens. A recipe from Pirhofer for Beer-Braised Short Ribs is also provided.

Arugula shows staying power adding oomph to salads, soups and more...food editor Deborah Pankey (with MariaLisa Calta) lauds the versatility of this increasingly popular bitter green.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Twin Tale: A sandwich slugfest...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant compares and contrasts 2 new entrants in the sandwich category: Lunch Rolls in the Loop and Birchwood Kitchen in Wicker Park.
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Media Digest for the week of April 29, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

--- Caffeine crazy ---
Americans love their coffee, and brewers want to help them make it right at home...as part of this multi-piece feature, Monica Eng reports that coffee sales are holding steady but that the market has shifted in favor of more home-brewing. Accordingly, several retail outlets are doing what they can to educate consumers in the ways of quality brewing.

4 paths to jazzed-up java...in this photogallery with commentary, a few specialized devices for improving home-brewed coffee are profiled.

Deciphering coffee labels...Ms. Eng helps demystify some cryptic industry jargon and label claims.

Coffee pairings go beyond dessert...here, Ms. Eng cites a few examples of this burgeoning trend.

A couple of coffee recipes are also provided.
-----

Chicago has cornered the cocktail bread market...Chicago has lost some huge corporate residents over the past decade but in this special to the Tribune, Rick Asa reports that all is not lost. Between Rubschlager and S. Rosen bakeries, Chicago has a virtual lock on the mini-rye market.

Francis Ford Coppola's innovations as a winemaker don't stop with the grapes...Bill Daley reports that now into his 4th decade of winemaking, FFC is as much an innovator in the wine industry as he is in the film industry. Tasting notes on several Coppola wines are also provided.

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

From the April 24 edition of the Trib Local - Highland Park/Highwood edition:
Captain Porky’s, a Classic Shrimp Shack...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht files this review of a North Suburban favorite in Beach Park.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Bakers say 'I do' to requests for wedding pies...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports on a couple of local bakers who are ready, willing and able to provide pies fit for weddings. Recipes for said pies are also included.

Building blocks of making mole, slowly...Lisa Donovan previews the friendly, mole-cooking contest that will take place between neighborhood restaurants in Pilsen in advance of Cinco de Mayo on Saturday May 2.

Cookbook captures spirit of Salpicon...the aforementioned Fuller checks out the newly-released cookbook from the husband and wife team behind this high-end Mexican restaurant in Old Town.

Whole Foods opening third largest store in Chicago's Lincoln Park in May...Sandra Guy reports the 'big' details about this store, which is slated to open on May 20.

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

From the April 24 edition:
Pilsen emerging as one of the area's hottest spots in Chicago...Jennifer Olvera provides a primer for this South Side neighborhood and highlights several of its food and beverage offerings in the process.
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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 29, 2009

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

The Secret’s in the Still...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula profiles Sonat Birnecker Hart and Robert Birnecker, the husband-and-wife team who together, are the force behind Koval Distillery in Ravenswood.

The Heart of Europe...brief reviews of German and Polish restaurants in town, with contributions from the aforementioned Sula, along with fellow LTHers David Hammond and Mike Gebert. Martha Bayne also files.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Geno Bahena will open yet another restaurant that specializes in moles.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

No new content for this week has been posted yet at TOC's web site. Please check back later for updates.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Fresh limes key to building a classic margarita...with Cinco de Mayo just around the corner, food editor Deborah Pankey breaks down the elements of this classic cocktail.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Like a Good Neighbor: Grocery Bistro brings human comforts to the West Loop...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant praises the realness of Grocery Bistro, which is newly-arrived to his West Loop neighborhood.
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Media Digest for the week of May 6, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Meatloaf-making tricks...Christopher Borrelli serves up this primer on making this American classic.

Questions about wine...Bill Daley answers a few from readers.

Wines suggested for Mother Day brunch...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley relays a few replies he received on this inquiry via Facebook and Twitter. Nice suggestions from Thierry Menguy, Vie's wine director, are included.

Memories and rice waffles...personal memories, background and tips are provided by an unidentified writer (possibly JeanMarie Brownson).

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

From the May 4 edition of the Trib Local - Highland Park/Highwood edition:
Morels, a spring wild mushroom coming soon to your forest...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht provides some useful information on these somewhat-mythical, seasonal delicacies.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Use those pantry items to make a meal, don't lose them...chef John Bubala shares the benefit of his experience and wisdom with food editor Janet Rausa Fuller, who then shares it with us. Included in the multi-piece feature are tips on how to Get creative with cupboard finds, a video demo and a couple of recipes.

Coffee wars are on — but which coffee is best?...the aforementioned Ms. Fuller reports on the corporate coffee battle that's been brewing lately and relays several opinions -- including her own -- about the Big 3's offerings.

Move over, mojito -- caipirinha delivers kick...Lisa Donovan reports on the growing popularity of this Brazilian libation -- which is traditionally associated with Carnivale season -- and discloses a few places in town that are making them year-round.

A grandma's gnocchi know-how...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, chef Michael Taus, chef/owner of Zealous and Duchamp, waxes poetic about his Grandma Jenny's gnocchi. A recipe from chef for potato gnocchi with rock shrimp and tomato sauce is also provided.

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

From the May 5 edition:
1st cookbook's the charm for Chicago chef...Ms. Fuller reports on the Alinea team's big win at the Beard Awards, which were held in NYC earlier this week.

From the May 1 edition:
Garrett Popcorn Shops opening in Merchandise Mart near CTA platform...Cheryl V. Jackson reports the details of this expansion, which is set for June.
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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 6, 2009

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

Transformations...in this week's Reader, the focus is on places that have recently been reconcepted in one way or another. LTH contributor Mike Sula checks out Via Ventuno, which occupies Room 21's former space, while Anne Spiselman scouts Shikago, where chef James Okono has replaced Kevin Shikami in the kitchen.

In the Neighborhood...brief reviews of 13 Near-South-Side eateries, with submissions from the aforementioned Sula and fellow LTHer David Hammond, as well as Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby provide a sneak peek of Mod Pizza, a pizzeria and smoothie bar slated to open in the West Loop later this month.

Odyssey: Seeing Red...Kim Conte provides a primer to some of the city's "most extreme Bloody Marys ."
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Maternal instincts...Lisa Shames relays some local chefs' favorite dishes, which they learned from their moms.

Rosés are blooming...David Tamarkin says that rosés are perfectly matched with spring produce, and he provides several pairing suggestions.

The hot seat...Bartender Charles Joly of the Drawing Room straps in this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Healthy yogurt endures to become mainstream star...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on how yogurt, nearly a novelty food in the 1970's, has become a mainstay in our diets.

Chef goes with his instincts, in kitchen and in life...the aforementioned Ms. Pankey profiles and interviews Sean O'Brien, who runs the kitchens at Timothy O'Toole's Pubs in Chicago and Gurnee. A recipe for Timothy O'Toole's Veggie Burger is linked to the piece.

Toast Mom with wine that has a feminine side...Ms. Pankey reports some food-industry news, including a blurb about Karen Cakebread, of the California vineyard of the same name, who on Sunday is releasing her own line of wines, named Ziata for her mother, Mary Annunziata.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Good for the Goose: Chef John Manion steps up the cuisine at Chicago’s classic brewpub...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that gunslinger-chef John Manion, formerly of Mas, has already put his stamp on Goose Island's menu.
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Media Digest for the week of May 13, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

13 strategies for shopping a farmers market...with Farmers Market season upon us, Monica Eng provides some guidance designed to maximize the benefits of the market shopping experience. Also provided are Chicago-area farmers markets listings, which are sorted by day and then alphabetically. Relatedly, Ted Gregory files a piece on Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) -- Fresh business model -- and profiles a couple of local farms who are part of this increasingly popular conduit: Green Earth Institute near Naperville and Sandhill Organics in Grayslake.

Health: Reading food labels key to good diet...in this special to the Tribune, Robert Channick checks in with Isa Carani, a registered dietitian with the Lake County Health Department, and gets some tips on how to decipher food labels.

Home seltzermakers sparkle...Monica Eng and Melissa Clay recommend a few models that are readily available for home use.

Dining Wright...Anne Spiselman previews the 4th annual Exclusively Wright Dinner, which is coming up this weekend. The dinner benefits the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust. Recipes for several of the dishes on the menu -- from noted local chefs -- are provided.

A growing market...in this special to the Tribune, Elizabeth Owens-Schiele checks out a couple of newer farmers markets in town, as well as several new offerings that will be available at area markets this year.

A tasting of Merry Edwards wines...Bill Daley checks out 4 different 2006 pinot noirs from noted Russian River Valley winemaker Merry Edwards, each from a different vineyard.

Wines from single vineyards worth trying...in keeping with the single-vineyard theme, Mr. Daley reports on the exceptional nature of these wines, which showcase their distinctive terroir.

Calendar, Food events locally...Elizabeth Schiele previews some of the week's upcoming events in food and beverage.

From today's Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Maria’s Bakery, A Slice of Italy on the North Shore...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht visits this Highwood favorite, where the delicious offerings range from sweet to savory.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Enrolling in Community Supported Agriculture program brings farm-fresh bounty to Chicago home...Misha Davenport explains the many benefits of CSA's and focuses on Harvest Moon Farms, which is located in Viroqua, Wisconsin. Relatedly, Bill Cunniff provides a list and interactive, Google map of this year's Chicagoland farmers markets: Bring a bag, pick your produce. Also provided is a list of what produce is typically available each month: What's in season at the martkets.

Apricot kernels -- how nutty!...Lisa Donovan literally goes inside the apricot, in sleuthing out this offbeat snack.

Sunda chef Rodelio Aglibot's yuzu moment is everlasting...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, chef Aglibot provides explains why yuzu has become such a fundamental ingredient for him, and he provides a recipe for Seared duck with yuzu kosho, as well.

Canning's seal of approval...LTHer David Hammond chronicles his initial foray into canning, which seems to have permanently cured him of the urge.

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

From the May 11 edition of the Sun Times' Digging In food blog:
Pit master pens a barbecue book...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller gives a nice shout out to LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott on his newly-released book (penned with fellow LTHer Colleen Rush): Low & Slow: Master the Art of Barbecue in 5 Easy Lessons.
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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 13, 2009

From the May 14 edition of the Chicago Reader's These Parts section:

Cheese Makers for a Day...LTH contributor Mike Sula chronicles his recent trip to Michigan, during which he and several local chefs made cheese at Grassfields Organic Cheese. The outing was organized by Giles Schnierle, proprietor of the Great American Cheese Collection.

Bliss on a Bun...brief reviews of 15 spots in town where blissful burgers can be had. Submissions here are from Mike Sula, as well as fellow LTHers Gary Wiviott, Peter Engler and Mike Gebert. Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne also file.

From the May 11 edition of The Food Chain:
Low & Slow: the tao of Gentle Bear...the aforementioned Sula profiles his pal -- and LTHForum.com frontman -- Gary Wiviott, whose new book (penned with LTHer Colleen Rush) Low & Slow: Master the Art of Barbecue in 5 Easy Lessons, is on shelves now.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby list 10 reasons why they're excited about the May 20th opening of the new Whole Foods on North Kingsbury, which will be the chain's 3rd-largest store.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

The Alfresco Issue

This multi-piece feature includes:

Hidden outdoor eateries by Ari Bendersky

Alfresco Logan Square by Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin

West Loop alfresco guide by Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin

Wicker Park alfresco crawl by Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin

River North alfresco by Heather Shouse and David Tamarkin

Perfect picnics by Julia Kramer

New outdoor eating in Chicago by Heather Shouse

Web Exclusives:
Alfresco dining map, a Google-aided creation, which includes all the eateries and bars mentioned in the pieces linked above.

Alfresco photo gallery
- - - - -

Save this restaurant...Sarah Grainer says that Tamalli on West Armitage needs our love.

Three-way...Julia Kramer reports on what 3 local restaurants are currently doing with dandelion greens.

Drink this...Heather Shouse identifies a beer, a cocktail and a wine -- each available at a local spot -- that are all worth a try.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Microwave veggies to keep beneficial nutrients...food editor Deborah Pankey reports that nutritionally-speaking, the microwave is one of the best cooking options for vegetables.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Slow Ride: Paula and Monica’s pizza conjures up sweet stoner memories...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant says that the pizza at this West Town carry-out is better than the pizza he made in his youth, even if the memories are a bit foggy.
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Media Digest Special Addendum for May 17, 2009

From the May 17 edition of the Chicago Tribune:

The real lowdown on stress-free barbecuing...John Kass heaps tons of well-deserved praise on LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott's new book (which he penned with fellow LTHer Colleen Rush), Low & Slow: Master the Art of Barbecue in 5 Easy Lessons.

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Media Digest for the week of May 20, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Recession leads cooks outdoors to the grill...Bill Daley explains why this cooking mode makes sense in leaner economic times. BBQ Maven and LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott is quoted in the piece. In Ask yourself questions before buying a grill, some help in determining which type to buy is provided. A few applicable recipes are provided, as is some statistical information. Also on the grilling front, Mr. Daley recommends Seven sizzling new grill books, including Low & Slow: Master the Art of Barbecue in 5 Easy Lessons, by the aforementioned Gary Wiviott (and fellow LTHer Colleen Rush). A recipe for buttermilk-brined hot wings from Low & Slow is also provided.

Memorial Day grilling: Pork chops serve a crowd...in this special to the Tribune, JeanMarie Brownson explains how to best handle today's leaner pork.

New Whole Foods store opens on North Side...Judy Hevrdejs scouts the newly-opened store in Lincoln Park, which is the 3rd-largest in the chain.

Muncie exhibit showcases Ball canning jars...in this special to the Tribune, Margaret Sheridan reports from Muncie, IN -- home of the Ball corporation -- on this exhibit which chronicles and celebrates the history of canning foods.

Rick Bayless Tweets recipes...Christopher Borrelli documents how Rick Bayless tweets recipes.

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

From the May 22 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Learn to Barbeque In Five Easy Steps Or Bust...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht files a favorable review of Low and Slow: Master the Art of Barbecue in 5 Easy Lessons, by LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott, with fellow LTHer Colleen Rush. Just to round out the LTH tag-team, the photo credit is by yours truly.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Five steps to BBQ nirvana...Dave Hoekstra chronicles an afternoon spent with LTHers and authors Gary Wiviott and Colleen Rush, who together penned Low & Slow: Master the Art of Barbecue In 5 Easy Lessons. Happily, their meeting was not the life-changing event for Mr. Hoekstra that it might have been. A recipe from the book for Gary's rub is also posted.

Fire up the grill with these tips from a local chef...Misha Davenport gets some advice on grilling from Rick Gresh, executive chef of David Burke's Primehouse. A video and a couple of applicable recipes from chef Gresh are also provided. Relatedly, food editor Janet Rausa Fuller lists 3 new titles, more grilling know-how.

No whining about swine at NRA show...the aforementioned Ms. Fuller recaps some of the highlights from the National Restaurant Show, which took place at McCormick Place and concluded yesterday. Speaking of locally-held trade shows, Cheryl V. Jackson files A chocolate toast to the All Candy Expo, in which she recaps her time at this show, which will wrap up tomorrow.

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

From the May 19 edition:
Fast casual restaurants see sales growth...the aforementioned Ms. Jackson reports from the NRA's annual show on this growing sector of the foodservice industry, which seems to have benefitted in tough economic times.
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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 20, 2009

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

What’s New...in this week's Reader, the focus is on newcomers, as LTH contributor Mike Sula checks out Taxim, Julia Thiel scouts Grocery Bistro, and Martha Bayne provides early recon on Branch 27.

New Too...brief reviews of 9 additional newbs, with contributions from the aforementioned Sula and Bayne.
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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 Spacca Napoli will expand into the space next door to it, come mid-October.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Graduate to grown-up ramen...LTH contributor Karl Klockars rounds up his favorite renditions around town.

Market share...Julia Kramer provides a dossier on the French breakfast radishes from Green Acres in North Judson, IN, which are available at the Green City Market.

Bag it...Heather Shouse touts pismaniye, a floss-like Turkish halvah, which is available at Sanabel Bakery on North Kedzie.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Marinades make the meal memorable...food editor Deborah Pankey gets some seasonally-relevant tips from Elizabeth Karmel, author of Soaked, Slathered and Seasoned.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

The Congress of Soul Food: How Izola’s fuels the bodies politic...Chris Chandler checks in and observes the political networking at this South Side institution.
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Media Digest for the week of May 27, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Splash it on!...Judy Hevrdejs provides a primer on the seasonally useful vinaigrette.

Parties call for versatile sparkling wines...Bill Daley explains why. Also provided are 10 sparkling tips for weddings and Champagne adds sparkle to cocktails, in which useful tips are provided for making champagne-assisted cocktails.

Judith Dunbar Hines: Chicago's culinary ambassador...the ubiquitous Bill Daley profiles and interviews the director of culinary arts and events for the city's Department of Cultural Affairs, Judith Dunbar Hines, whose job it is to promote Chicago's culinary scene.

Chicago-area schools teach via edible gardens...in this special to the Tribune, Nancy Maes reports on how Alice Waters' book, Edible Schoolyard: A Universal Idea, is influencing and inspiring local educators, as well as students.

Poaching: No bubbles, no toil, no trouble...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan explains why this technique, for which he provides detailed instructions, is a useful one to have in the arsenal.

Exploring the hot dog century...Christopher Borrelli files a brief, favorable review of Hot Dog: A Global History, by Bruce Kraig, Professor Emeritus at Roosevelt University, who specializes in food history.

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

Chefs dole out tips, give demos in kitchen stadium...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller recaps few demos conducted by well-known chefs on the 'Culinary Scene' stage, which was part of National Restaurant Association's annual expo, held in Chicago last week. Relatedly, in Meat the competition, Ms. Fuller recaps some lesser-known beef cuts that were showcased at the event. A couple of applicable recipes are provided, too.

Landscape designer tracks down obscure herb...Lisa Donovan reports (as Mike Sula did over a month ago at the Reader) on how chef Tony Priolo tracked down mentuccia for use at Piccolo Sogno.

Wrapped up and ready...the aforementioned Ms. Fuller recaps the highlights from the All Candy Expo, which was held last week at McCormick Place. Ms. Fuller notes that "This year, candy makers seem keen on merging savory, spicy and sweet."

How to grill a perfect burger...in this week's edition of At the Chef's Table, James Gottwald, chef at Rockit Bar & Grill, provides some tips, as well as a recipe for German potato salad with warm bacon vinaigrette.

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

From the May 21 edition:
Hot dog war -- Sara Lee suing Kraft over ads: 'bunch of baloney'...Cheryl V. Jackson reports on this lawsuit between the nation's 2 biggest hot dog manufacturers.

Restaurant owner sued by Lettuce Entertain You over name...Lisa Donovan reports on this lawsuit between the well-known restaurant giant and Shahram "Sean" Tehrani, who plans to open a restaurant with the word 'lettuce' in its name.

Hyde Park restaurant that president touted to close...Cheryl V. Jackson reports that Dixie Kitchen, 'reviewed' by Barak Obama on Check, Please! back in 2001, has lost its lease.
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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 27, 2009

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

Consumed by Cookware...in this week's Reader, Anne Spiselman checks out the Culinary Curiosity Exhibition at Kendall College, a "museum" spread throughout the school which has been on display since January. The 300+ piece collection was donated Mel Mickevic, a food scientist and inventor who started collecting over 60 years ago.

Well Schooled...brief reviews of 11 restaurants helmed by chefs trained at Kendall Colllege, with contributions by LTHer Mike Sula, as well as Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne, among others.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

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

Custom crops...Lisa Shames reports on which crops several area restaurants are having local farms grow especially for them -- and in what dishes those ingredients are being used.

The hot seat...chef Erick Williams of mk is profiled this time around.

Five patios for classic cocktails this weekend...Julia Kramer list the places and the libations.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Nurturing an infatuation with chocolate at home...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles Mark and Nadia Lannie, who last year added a chocolate room to their Arlington Heights home. A recipes from the Lannies for dark chocolate mousse is included.

Salads, simple to sublime Nothing easier to prepare for alfresco dining...Ms. Pankey touts the ease and deliciousness of salads. Several recipes are provided.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

At the time of this update, there was no new content posted at NewCity Chicago's site this week.
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Media Digest for the week of June 3, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Learning about curry powder...Bill Daley provides some history on this British creation, which was orginally developed to "replicate the flavor of the freshly ground spice blends they encountered in India."

Red plus white wine does not equal rosé...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley reports on how French winemakers are fighting to preserve the true meaning of the descriptor "rosé."

Grilled cheeses on the grill...JeanMarie Brownson provides some background, tips -- and a recipe -- for creating offbeat grilled cheese sandwiches.

Urbane Mexican recipes are the draw of 'Salpicon!'...Bill Daley files a brief, favorable review of The ¡Salpicón! Cookbook: Contemporary Mexican Cuisine, by the owners of Salpicon on North Wells -- Priscila and Vincent Satkoff. A recipe from the book for chilled avocado and crab soup is included.

Cooking demonstrations and panel discussions on food offered at Printers Row Lit Fest...the schedule for this weekend's upcoming event -- which features an appearance by LTHer Mike Gebert -- is provided.

10 foods allergy sufferers should try...Julie Deardorff provides this list, which includes detailed information and preparation tips, as well.

Beer of the month: Unibroue Ephemere...Jerald O'Kennard says his choice this month "...is a delicate wheat beer that is brewed with Granny Smith apples and has an appealing, refreshing, almost ciderlike character."

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

From the May 26 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Piercing the Veil to Authentic Chinese Food...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht provides some guidance on how to get past the initial resistance some diners encounter when seeking authentic cuisine at Chinese restaurants.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Meals on wheels for food lovers with curious palates...Brian E. Clark taps into the increasingly popular trend of food-focused travel. Several resources for arranging such trips are listed.

Fat from Kobe beef the new secret ingredient...Lisa Donovan reports on the amped up fries being offered on the bar menu at Ajasteak.

Get the most out of market veggies...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller provides some useful tips and advice on how to maximize the shelf life of our farmers market purchases. LTHer Melissa Graham is quoted in the piece and also provides a recipe for baked frittata with asparagus, pea greens and goat cheese.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings can be found here.
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Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
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Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 3, 2009

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

Greek Revival...in this week's Reader, LTHer Mike Sula profiles and interviews David Schneider, the unorthodox owner of Taxim, a 'new' Greek restaurant in Wicker Park.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Scott Harris, Jimmy Bannos and a third chef (who wishes to remain anonymous for now) are collaborating on The Purple Pig, "a Mediterranean 'cheese, wine and swine' spot" at 500 N. Michigan Ave., that's due to open in mid-September. At the helm will be Bannos' son, Jimmy Bannos Jr., in his first executive chef gig.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Cheap Eats: Breakfast Edition:

Bacon quest, by Chicago Glutton Darwensi Clark

Diner deals, by Julia Kramer

Essential French toast, by Julia Kramer

Chicago's best breakfast breads, by David Tamarkin

The most perfect waffle in Chicago, by David Tamarkin

Three classic pancakes, by Laura Baginski

Sticky situation, by John Dugan

A good egg is hard to find, by Heather Shouse

Breakfast as (un)usual, by Julia Kramer
-----

Market share...Julia Kramer recommends the stinging nettles from Jeff Shane's Kingfisher Farm in North Judson, IN, which are available exclusively at 61st Street Market.

Drink this…...Heather Shouse recommends a liqueur, a wine and a beer that each include a refreshing lemon element.

Summery local beers...food editor Heather Shouse checks out 5 that she says are worth trying this weekend.

Bigger, hotter, louder...Julia Kramer checks out 5 new "behemoth bars" in town.

Save this restaurant...Heather Shouse says that Jamaica Jamaica in Evanston needs our love.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

At the time of this entry, there had been no new, locally-originating content posted at the Herald's site this week.
=====

Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Dinner Dynasty: The surprisingly, unconventionally great Han 202...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out this surprisingly distinctive eatery in Bridgeport.
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Media Digest for the week of June 10, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Spice box makes flavorings accessible...in this special to the Tribune, Anupy Singla lays out the details of this essential Indian cooking tool. Several sources and applicable recipes are included.

Are you a wine whiz?...Bill Daley reveals a few questions that are "...similar to what you'd find on the exams offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers."

Goji berries' benefits...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor sheds some light on the latest purported superfruit.

From the June 9 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Szechuan Kingdom's Chinese Menu Unveiled...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht reveals the 'secret' offerings of this Deerfield restaurant.
=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Back to the box for recipes...Misha Davenport reports that test kitchen recipes provided on retail packaging are enjoying a revival due, in part, to current economic conditions, which are leading more folks to cook at home. Several applicable recipes are included.

A side of slaw -- hold the mayo...Lisa Donovan investigates a few mayonnaise alternatives, including the vinegar-based cole slaw at Smoque and the slaws at Prairie Grass Cafe, which feature seasonal vegetables.

New 'Top Chef' tonight...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller previews Top Chef Masters, which debuts on Bravo tonight.

Start your day with artisan cereal...Mike Thomas checks out the customizable offerings from [me] & goji, which was started, in part, by a couple of Northwestern grads. In Have cereal your way, Mr. Thomas lists a few more sources for customized cereals.

At 61st Street Market, time is on chef's side...Alex Cheswick, chef and owner of May Street Market, checks out the 61st Street Market and shares his recipe for corn veloute parmesan flan.

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

From the June 9 edition:
McD's wins No. 1 Zagat value score as sales rise again...Cheryl V. Jackson reports the 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 June 10, 2009

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

Transformations...in this week's Reader, the focus is on how some veteran places are faring under their new chefs. Anne Spiselman checks out Sepia under Andrew Zimmerman, LTH contributor Mike Sula visits Goose Island Brewpub, now with John Manion in the kitchen, and Kate Schmidt scouts out Quince, which is helmed by Pete Balodimas.

Game On...brief reviews of 8 chef-driven restaurants, with contributions from the aforementioned Sula and Spiselman, along with Martha Bayne and LTHer David Hammond.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby rave about surprising newcomer Han 202 in Bridgeport.
=====

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

At the time of this entry, TOC's new content for the week had not yet been posted at their web site. Please, check back later for updates.
=====

From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef translates culinary passion into impeccable plates...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles and interviews Jose Sosa, head chef at Hugo's Frog Bar and Fish House in Naperville. Chef Sosa's recipe for miso-marinated Chilean Sea Bass is included.

What separates ice cream, soft serve and custard...Ms. Pankey lays out some of the distinguishing attributes.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Main Coarse: Are Chicago Gluttons blustery blog hogs or the freshest voice in Chicago food writing?...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant profiles and interviews these brash, anti-foodie upstarts who are making a name for themselves with their distinctive food-writing. LTHForum.com frontman Gary Wiviott is quoted in the piece.
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Media Digest for the week of June 17, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Searching for answers to food mysteries...Bill Daley answers some common food questions.

Rias Baixas: The flagship wine of Spanish whites...Bill Daley provides a primer on the most important Spanish white wine -- Albarino -- and Rias Baixas, the region in Northwest Spain where it grows. Additional information about the region can be found here.

Dinner at Home: Favorite rhubarb dishes...in this week's Dinner at Home, JeanMarie Brownson provides a couple of recipes for this seasonal offering.

Healthy Kids Cookoff benefits Share Our Strength...William Hageman recaps this charity event, which took place recently at Kendall College.

Video games: Now they're cookin'...Eric Gwinn rounds up some food-oriented video games that are now on the market.

From the June 16 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Chicago's Produce Markets Operate In the Dark of Night...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht trails Garden Fresh Market owner Adi Mor on a pre-dawn trip to the Anthony Marano Company's South Side produce warehouse.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Roeser's Bakery on North Avenue rolls with the changes...Dave Hoekstra profiles this bakery, which is nearly 100 years old. The Bakery's brushses with fame are chronicled, as are several innovations that were put in place over the years. A recipe for Roeser's butter cookies is included.

Burger has royal status in Salt Lake...Lisa Donovan checks out the pastrami-topped Crown Burger, a Salt Lake City delicacy.

Finding love in the Whole Food aisles...LTH contributor Melissa Graham expresses her love for the locally-oriented offerings at the new, Mega-Whole Foods store in Lincoln Park.

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

From the June 11 edition:
Hold the french fries - please - at Little Island...Irv Leavitt checks out this tiny eatery in Northwest Evanston, which offers a formidable 24-ounce double bacon cheeseburger.
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<><><><><>
Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 17, 2009

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

What’s New...in this week's Reader, the focus is on some new spots. LTH contributor checks out Han 202 in Bridgeport and Fuego Mexican Grill in Bucktown. Anne Spiselman scouts Ristorante al Teatro in Pilsen.

New Too...brief reviews of 10 additional newcomers, with contributions from the aforementioned Sula, as well as Kate Schmidt and Martha Bayne.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Michael Altenberg of Bistro Campagne and Crust is planning to open an Alabama pit barbecue spot in Lincoln Square next spring.

Best New Restaurants...the annual list (compiled by Jeff Ruby and Dennis Ray Wheaton), which originally appeared in the May issue, is now on-line.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

City ditchers...Julia Kramer, Heather Shouse and Judy Sutton Taylor identify several places for food in the suburbs that are worth the trip.

The hot seat...chef Mark Steuer of Hot Chocolate straps in this week.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

At the time of this entry, no new content for the week had been posted at the Herald's web site.
=====

Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Fed Zeppelins: Grand Dukes Restaurant & Deli brings Lithuania to Chicago...Chris Chandler checks out Grand Dukes Restaurant & Deli in Summit.
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Media Digest for the week of June 24, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Cool off with homemade ice cream...Renee Enna files this primer, which includes tips from pastry chef Alison Bower and a couple of recipes.

Get your fill of food films...a reporter bylined simply as C.B. (Christopher Borrelli?) rounds up a few food-oriented films, including the recently released Food, Inc.

New products shown at All Things Organic trade show in Chicago...Judy Hevrdejs recaps last week's show, which took place at McCormick Place.

Terra incognito...Bill Daley reports that during a recent blind tasting of sauvignon blancs, the provenance of the wines made for distinctive differences between them. Tasting notes are included.

Veloute smooths the way for many sauces...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan explains the importance of this mother sauce and provides instructions, including a recipe, for making it.

Worth savoring new book: "Tasting Beer: An Insider's Guide to the World's Greatest Drink"...Joe Gray files this favorable review of Randy Mosher's Tasting Beer: An Insider's Guide to the World's Greatest Drink.

From the June 23 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Following The Growing Season: Strawberries...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht taps into the local strawberry season, which has just begun.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Cracking the baking code...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant heaps some well-deserved praise on Michael Ruhlman's new book, Ratio: The Simple Codes Behind the Craft of Everyday Cooking. A couple of recipes from the book are included.

New take on popcorn: iced on stick...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller reports the gory details of this treat -- a collaboration between Richard Blais and Garrett's Popcorn -- which will be available at Taste of Chicago this year. A sidebar listing other foods available 'on a stick' at Taste is included.

Ten years and counting at Tru...Ms. Fuller checks in at Tru, inteviews Tramonto and Gand, and reports the menu for their upcoming 10th anniversary gala, which inlcludes dishes from a variety of well-known chefs.

Cattail shoots, edible and tasty...Misha Davenport reports that his goal of being exposed to new ingredients has already come true, with his first CSA delivery of the season. A recipe for cattail and vegetable basmati rice pilaf is included.

With cocktails, keeping it fresh is key...in this week's At the Chef's Table installment, Bridget Albert, master mixologist at Southern Wine and Spirits of Illinois and director of the Academy of Spirits and Fine Service, provides her insights. Also included are a couple of applicable recipes.

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

From the June 19 edition:
Show features all things organic...Cheryl V. Jackson recaps the All Things Organic trade show, which took place in town last 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.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of June 24, 2009

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

The Lincoln Square and North Center Issue...this week's Reader is all about these northside neighborhoods, and fairly a comprehensive listing of the area's eateries is provided.
=====

From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby take an early peek at Zebda, a new Mediterranean-influenced takeout deli/caterer, which opened last week.
=====

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

Riverside dining and drinking...Sarah Grainer identifies 5 spots worth checking out.

The artisan: Trent and Justin Kilgus...David Tamarkin profiles these brothers who operate Pleasant Meadows Farms, and supply many top area restaurants with the goat they serve.

Three-way...Heather Shouse reveals what 3 area restaurants are currently doing with strawberries.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Vegetable relish giardiniera attracting more fans...food editor Deborah Pankey tracks the local giardiniera renaissance.

A chef whose love of food runs across generations...Ms. Pankey profiles and interviews Natasha Vitti-Solares, chef at Capital Grille's Rosemont location.

Suburban chefs take stage at Taste Cooking Corner...the aforementioned Ms. Pankey lists some upcoming appearances -- some by local chefs -- coming up at Taste of Chicago.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

The Pastry Trail: Eclair, the moment I met you…LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out the flawed but still somewhat redeeming offerings at Fritz Pastry in Lakeview.
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Media Digest for the week of July 1, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Cooking with Kass...Bill Daley documents John Kass' signature process and decides to add some wine to the mix. A recipe and video are included. Some tasting notes on how the wines paired with the food are also provided in Can the can!

10 ways to spice up your 4th of July eats...a photo gallery of ideas is provided, with comments by Bill Daley.

Debate continues over an American cuisine definition...Bill Daley taps into this eternal and sometimes heated debate. In Certain foods symbolize American cuisine, additional information is provided, including applicable recipes from several noted authorities.

Time for a truce...JeanMarie Brownson says that it's time for fans of spareribs and baby backs to put their differences aside. A recipe is included.

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

Heat up summer outings with campfire cuisine...Jennifer Olvera checks in with a couple of local chefs to get ideas for perking up outdoor cookery. Recipes are included.

Chicagoan finds new life in coffee far from city...Lisa Donovan reports on a new, estate-grown Salvadoran coffee, which The Fish Guy started offering this week.

Got kale? Get comfy...Misha Davenport updates his ongoing CSA experience, which includes kale this week. A recipe for colcannon is included.

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

From the June 29 edition:
A 'disaster' in the making...Monifa Thomas reports that the legengary Evanston breakfast spot, Sarkis Grill, will soon open a Lincoln Park location.

From the June 26 edition:
A series of pieces related to this year's edition of Taste of Chicago:

Taste is the place for perfect pairings of food and music, by Ben Rubenstein

A healthy Taste with fewer calories and less fat, Monifa Thomas

Grilled foods are a Taste sensation, by Stacy Warden

Get off the eatin' path with these options, by Jennifer Olvera

Got a Taste for sports?, by Misha Davenport

Gourmands should hang out at the Corner...a list of happenings at the Dominck's Cooking Corner

From the June 25 edition:
A meal (or two or three) in a Catlow sandwich...in this piece, which originally appeared in the Pioneer Press, Irv Leavitt checks out the massive sandwiches at The Catlow Theater in Barrington.

Rainbow Cone scoops spot in Loop...Dave Roeder reports on Rainbow Cone's upcoming Loop location.
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<><><><><>
Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 1, 2009

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

Indonesian Tonight?...in this week's Reader, LTH contributor Mike Sula provides an in-depth look at Angin Mamiri, a new Indonesian spot that's opened recently in West Rogers Park.

One-of-a-Kind Asian...brief reviews of several specialized Asian restaurants, with contributions from the aforementioned Sula, as well as fellow LTHers Gary Wiviott, David Hammond and Kristina Meyer.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Michael Roper, owner of Hopleaf in Andersonville, has acquired the space next door (La Donna), where he plans to focus on "grilled fish and meat and house-made charcuterie." The opening is slated for early winter.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Taste quest: Gladstone Park...Lisa Shames provides a culinary road map of this far Northwest Side neighborhood.

Drink this now...Heather Shouse provides recommendations for 3 ginger-related libations -- a beer, a wine and a cocktail.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Celebrating the all-American hamburger...food editor Deborah Pankey explores this icon of American culinaria and includes a few recipes, too.
=====

Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Common Sense on Common Culinary Misconceptions...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant shoots down a few notions some folks might have about the culinary world.
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Media Digest for the week of July 8, 2009

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

AleFest comes to Chicago's Solder Field...Joe Gray previews the third annual edition, which will take place on Saturday, and will showcase "...150 craft brews from some 50 domestic and foreign breweries..."

New book 'Modern Spice' reviewed...Bill Daley files a brief, favorable review of this new book from Washington, DC-based Monica Bhide.

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

From the July 6 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Isaac & Moishe's Deli, a Mexican Jewish Food Experience...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht explores the exotic offerings at this distinctive Highwood grocery and carry-out.
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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Why buy? Just DIY...food editor Janet Rausa Fuller provides guidance on creating superior home versions of several common grocery staples. A few applicable recipes are included.

Chefs: eggs key to ice cream magic...Lisa Donovan checks in with a couple of local chefs who recommend including egg yolks in ice cream. A couple of recipes are provided.

Dining on Kohlrabi...Misha Davenport continues his CSA series with a recipe for kohlrabi.

Now's the time to go wild for raspberries...LTH contributor Cynthia Clampitt extols the virtues of wild raspberries, which are now in season. Included is a recipe for English summer pudding.

Tastings around town...previews of some of the week's events in food and beverage. Information on additional food-industry events and happenings can be found here.
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<><><><><>
Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 8, 2009

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

Have Your Ice Cream and Eat Your Cake Too...in this week's Reader, Anne Spiselman profiles Kris Swanberg and her seasonal, organic, handcrafted ice cream company, Nice Cream.

We All Scream...brief reviews of 45 places in town for ice cream and other frozen treats, with submissions from LTHers Gary Wiviott, Mike Sula, David Hammond and Mike Gebert, as well as Martha Bayne and Kate Schmidt.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

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

Bring all the boys to the yard...Sarah Grainer searches out the best homegrown milkshakes in town.

Market share...Novid Parsi checks out the garlic scapes from Grassroots Farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, which are available at the Andersonville Farmer's Market.

Beer cocktails...Lisa Shames identifies 5 served around town that are worth trying this weekend (or anytime).
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

An opening to relish: Wheeling's Superdawg to open in October...Sheila Ahern reports the details of this much-anticipated opening.

Fit watermelon into breakfast, lunch, dinner and more...food editor Deborah Pankey provides a primer and several recipes for this delectable summer treat.

Fish fry that started chef on road to Pappadeux...Ms. Pankey profiles and interviews David Jarvis, R&D chef for Pappadeux Seafood Restaurants in Arlington Heights and Westmont. Jarvis' recipe for Pan Roast (sic) Alaskan Halibut Picatta With Zucchini Ribbons is included.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Soup for You: Bucktown Soup Cafe dishes up a dream...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out Dino Agudo's Bucktown Soup Café, a concept for which he has some affinity.
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Media Digest for the week of July 15, 2009

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

New takes on deviled eggs...Bill Daley reports that deviled eggs are in vogue again and he presents 3 recipes for them from noted chefs. Also provided are tips on How to hard-cook an egg.

Summer slaws on the go...in this installment of Dinner at Home, JeanMarie Brownson provides recipes for a couple of easy-to-prepare slaws.

Drinking in 'A Case for Wine'...Bill Daley explores the new wine-focused exhibit, A Case for Wine: From King Tut to Today, which is on display at The Art Institute of Chicago through September 20. Several photos of the exhibit are provided, as well.

AleFest Chicago held at Soldier's Field's Stadium Green...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor recaps last weekend's event.

Sausage and sangiovese: A natural match...Bill Daley touts this natural pairing, makes some recommendations and provides tasting notes, as well.

Dr. Preston Maring touts more convenient farmers markets...Monica Eng interviews this Bay-area physician, who is not only an advocate but also an innovator when it comes to marketing farmers' markets.

A beer laced with wine hype...Bill Daley takes an early look at a new Spanish beer, Inedit, which is "...a collaboration between Spanish superstar chef Ferran Adria, the sommeliers of his world-renowned elBulli restaurant and the Barcelona-based brewmasters."

How to power through homemade mayonnaise prep...Leah Eskin provides tips and a recipe for 'Electric Mayonnaise."

Drink: Saison is the style of summer...Zak Stambor says that "As temperatures rise, few beers are more refreshing than a saison." Mr. Stambor also recommends 5 saisons to try.

From the July 8 edition:
Summer celebrations call for chardonnay...Bill Daley explains why this grape matches up so well with food typically served at events held this time of year. Mr. Daley also recommends several Wines for that special shellfish lunch, and provides tasting notes.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Inhaling India's array of real food, cart by cart...Anupy Singla chronicles a trip to her homeland; the first for her 2 daughters, who were raised in the U.S. Included with the piece are a primer on The building blocks of Indian street treats, a photoset of 'The real food of India' and several recipes.

Continuing on with the Indian theme, Maureen Jenkins files South Loop stakes its claim to Indian cuisine, in which she checks out the burgeoning Indian food scene in the South Loop. Anu Karwa provides some applicable advice on how to Complement Indian food with careful wine selection.

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

From the July 14 editon:
At last, homemade Frango Mints are back...Sandra Guy reports that "South Side candymaker Cupid Candies has started producing the No. 1-selling Frango product -- one-pound boxes of the mint chocolates -- in the past several days for local Macy's department stores."

From the July 12 editon:
Author digs up the seeds of change in history...Thomas Frisbie reviews The Garden of Invention: Luther Burbank and the Business of Breeding Plants and profiles its author, Chicagoan Jane Smith.

From the July 9 editon:
Long dog's journey into bites at Cookers Red Hots...in a re-print from the Pioneer Press, Irv Leavitt checks out this Deerfield eatery, where Vienna Beef's 2-pound, 22-inch hot dog is available.
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<><><><><>
Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 15, 2009

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

What's New...LTH contributor Mike Sula scouts the unfortunately-named Browntrout, Martha Bayne provides early recon on Nightwood and Anne Spiselman pays a visit to the recently-opened Fianco.

New Too...brief reviews of 9 additional new spots in town, with submissions from the aforementioned Sula and Spiselman, as well as Kate Schmidt and Julia Thiel.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's edition of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview the upcoming Red Canary, from chef Rick Spiros, who was behind the short-lived Mantou Noodle Bar.

Odyssey: Counter Intelligence...Joanne Trestrail identifies "...five spots where fast-food speed and slow-food deliciousness (and table service) happily coexist."
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Notes from the underground...Heather Shouse identifies several local 'underground' supper clubs that are just under the radar.

Summer cocktails...as part of the Summer drinking 2009 feature, David Tamarkin touts 5 local drinks made with herbs and vegetables.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

At this the time of this entry, no new, locally-originating content had been posted at The Herald's web site.
=====

Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Rock the Zebda: Algerian takeout ups the Middle Eastern ante...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant checks out Zebda, an Algerian take-out spot in Irving Park, which he believes is going to quickly become extremely popular.
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Media Digest for the week of July 22, 2009

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

Year of the Tomato
A cherry tomato makeover...Judy Hevrdejs suggests 5 fillings for these little gems. Continuing on the tomato front, Nara Schoenberg files Growing tomatoes: Mavens and their gardening secrets, in which she canvasses expert gardners for tips on growing tomatoes. In Tomatoes from the ground up: Planting your tomatoes, Bill Hageman provides some useful information about the starting and timing of seasonal tomato planting. Mr. Hageman also files Pruning tomatoes: Pros and cons.
- - - - -

Scotch whiskeys: Laphroaig and Ardmore...Josh Noel checks out a couple of very pricey Scotch whiskeys that are about to hit the shelves.

Chicago area green markets growing, but are not all organic...in this special to the Tribune, Pat Terry highlights just how meaningless the official 'organic' label is when seeking high-quality, sustainable produce in Chicagoland.

Spirits add flavor to summer milkshakes...Joe Gray taps into a potentially growing trend of adding spirits to these typically kid-oriented beverages. A couple of recipes are included.

Prosecco's rise: From B list to A...in this week's Uncorked, Bill Daley charts the growing popularity and respectability of this relatively inexpensive sparkling wine. Mr. Daley also spends some time Rating prosecco wines.

From the July 21 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Navy’s Culinary Specialist “A” School at Great Lakes...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht checks out the intensive Culinary Specialist “A” School at Great Lakes Naval Station, which turns out 30 graduates each week.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Just can it! If you grow it, that is...as part of a multi-piece feature on canning, Jennfier Olvera checks in with noted a expert, chef Paul Virant of Vie, for guidance on how to maximize the bounties of the season. Included are a canning photogallery, a list of Canning classes around town, A canning reading list and several recipes, including one from chef Virant.

Piggie sandwich almost famous, always tasty...Lisa Donovan checks out the Silver Palm's Three Little Piggies sandwich, which was initially touted by Anthony Bourdain in the Chicago episode of No Reservations that aired earlier this year.

Bright, tart noodle salad captures essence of summer...in this week's installment of At the Chef's Table, Bill Kim chef/owner of Urban Belly, shares his recipe for chilled somen salad with shrimp and watermelon.

Taking a bite out of Shanghai...travel editor Lori Rackl waits in line for the sheng jian bao at Yang's Fry Dumpling in Shanghai and has no regrets.

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

<><><><><>
Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be added to this thread as they become available.
<><><><><>

Media Digest Addenda for the week of July 22, 2009

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

Transformations: Between, Grocery Bistro, and La Tache...Kate Schmidt, Julia Thiel and Martha Bayne check out these three spots to see how they're doing under their newly-installed chefs.
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From Chicago Magazine's on-line Dining section:

In this week's installment of Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby provide some advance details about the Hearty Boys' conversion of their catering facility/TV studio on North Broadway into a full-service restaurant called, you guessed it, Hearty.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Shares well with others...Heather Lalley reports on the increasing number of shared kitchens in town, and focuses on Kitchen Chicago's glorious new space on North Leavitt.

Hot dogs gone wild...Julia Kramer reports that in spite of their growing popularity, many of Chicagoland's gourmet sausage shops outsource their wares.
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From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Some cool meals to enjoy making and eating on hot days...food editor Deborah Pankey offers some seasonal suggestions, with recipes.
=====

Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

An Affair to Devour: Food writer Molly Wizenberg speaks for a new generation...LTH contributor Mike Nagrant expresses his unrequited 'lusting of the heart' for author Molly Wizenburg and her recently-pulbished cooking memoir: A Homemade Life.
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Media Digest for the week of July 29, 2009

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

A taste of the world ......a tag team of writers, including Bill Daley, Judy Hevrdejs, William Hageman and Barbara Mahany, check out just a small sampling of the diverse, multi-cultural, culinary offerings that can be found in Chicagoland. In Where to find worldly flavors, an interactive Google map of places covered in the piece is provided. Also included is a photogallery of Chicagoland's ethnic markets.

Glamour grilling...Bill Daley provides some guidance and recipes for grilling fruit which, according to cookbook author Jamie Purviance, adds some culinary glamour.

Uncorked: Judging the sweetness of riesling wine...in this week's edition, Mr. Daley reports that there is a concerted effort being made to educate consumers about the differences between the widely diverse styles of this popular varietal. Buying tips are also provided. Also included is Wine tasting: German rieslings, in which Mr. Daley provides tasting notes on several German rieslings.

Steps to making caramel...in this installment of Prep School, James P. DeWan lays out some easy-to-follow steps, and a basic recipe for caramel cream sauce.

Foodzie allows buyers to track products to its source in a few clicks...in this special to the Tribune, Zak Stambor checks out foodzie.com, a web site that seeks to enable personal interaction between consumers and food producers, on-line.

Culinary event features Chicago chefs...in this special to the Tribune, Ron Kreuger previews the 6th annual Epicurean Classic, which will take place in a new location -- St. Joseph, MI -- August 28-30.

Booskshelf: Rustic fruit desserts...Barbara Mahany files a brief, favorable review of Rustic Fruit Desserts: Crumbles, Buckles, Cobblers, Pandowdies, and More, by Cory Schreiber and Julie Richardson.

From the July 27 Trib Local Highland Park/Highwood on-line edition:
Following the Growing Season: Corn...LTHer Catherine Lambrecht contends that while Mirai corn is certainly good, it isn't necessarily all it's cracked up to be.
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From this week's Chicago Sun Times and Food section:

Dinner in a movie as Julia Child brought to big screen...Bill Zwecker chats with Meryl Streep about her new movie, Julie & Julia, which will hit theaters early next month. In keeping with the film's theme, Julia Child's recipe for boeuf bourguignon is included. Zwecker also interviews Julie Powell, author of the book upon which the film is based.

A sommelier for all Seasons...Miriam Di Nunzio interviews Michael Cunio, one of the stars of Jersey Boys, and sommelier at New York’s Palma restaurant. Mr. Cunio also provides some wine guidance in another piece penned by Ms. Di Nunzio, Pro doles out wine advice. In Rating the 'Jersey Boys' Cunio likens the characters from Jersey Boys to different types of wine.

Lesser known but still a key player: sweet soy sauce...Lisa Donovan discovers how a few chefs around town are using this lesser-known ingredient.

Tracing influence of wine...Misha Davenport explores the A Case for Wine exhibit at The Art Institute of Chicago.

Beet chocolate cake savory and rich...Misha Davenport continues his series on cooking from his CSA box. A recipe is also provided.

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

From the July 23 edition:
Triple patties + gyros = Triple Niki...in this re-print from the Pioneer Press, Irv Leavitt samples the Triple Niki at the legendary Chuck Wagon in Wilmette.
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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 29, 2009

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

What's New...LTH contributor Mike Sula scouts Rootstock in Humboldt Park and State and Lake at, well, State and Lake. LTHer David Hammond pays an early visit to Siboney Cuban Cuisine on the border between Bucktown and Logan Square, and Kate Schmidt checks out Frida's in Lakeview. 8 additional newbs are briefly reviewed in New Too. Contributions here are from the aforementioned Sula and Schmidt, as well as Martha Bayne and Anne Spiselman.
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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 executive chef Freddy Sanchez is out at Adobo Grill, after a surprise firing which followed some time off.
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From this week's Time Out Chicago - Restaurants & Bars section:

Trending: Tonic water...David Tamarkin reports that several mixologists around town are now making their own.

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

Young chef incorporates wisdom of mentors into his own kitchen...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles Chef Andrew Jennrich of D.O.C. Wine Bar in Lombard. Chef Jennrich's recipe for Basil-Cherry Chicken Salad is included.
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Posted this week at NewCity Chicago's Newcity Resto site:

Fresh Traditions: Akira Yokoyama’s classic sushi methods keep Ginza masterful...Chris Chandler profiles ultra-traditional Ginza Restaurant and its chef/owner Akira Yokoyama.
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