saltylj

Actually there is a Gino's in the burbs oddly enough. None of the graffiti ambience though.

Great Pictures! But I have to disagree a bit, I think for deep dish you have to either go with Uno or Due (as Uno and its accompying restaurant Due, invented deep dish) or Gino's (because of that corn crust); It's a spot of contention, but at least Lou Malnati's is a respectable choice. Also, good choices for the hot dogs, but I got to say the best are all beef, which you guys had, and charred. Again great pics of Chicago and the restaurants. Makes me want to go to fluky's or get deep dish......

I was curious if anyone could suggest good Chicago summer places. Preferably those with outside eating and downtown, wicker park, or nearby. Not really looking for something expensive, but just something for really nice weather, good food (although the food, I know sacrilege, doesn't have to be fantastic) and a place to hang out. This is actually more for my brother, he's in late twenties, so that may give you an idea of what he is looking for. I really wasn't sure, so was hoping to see if you guys could help me out. Thanks for reading, saltz

I checked them all out, and in the end found Keens to be pretty comfortable, to my detriment as they were more expensive. Does anyone else wear these on a regular basis?

So I am going to be in a kitchen trailing for a few days, any reccomendations for shoes (hopefully soon I willa ctually find a job in one). I dont want to spend a lot of cash, I know should spend money for feet...., so any suggestions. Is it pretty much crocs? I have almost flat feet and tend to wear new balance with orthotics. The shoes need to be closed toe, but thats it. Any shoes I could actually wear outside of kitchen without being embarassed, Im still young, would be a bonus. But hey if theyre cheap enough...

Oh why did you have to raise my hopes up like that, and dash them with the last sentence. You know youre into food when you seriously consider learning a language, even for only a second, to read a book.

Well, if you just want something to work with for chocolate and pastry and low on budget, some places sell sutting board-like sized pieces of marble. That way you can table chocolate and use pastry but not break the bank.

thanx for all of the suggestions, going to have to go and check them out tomorrow

That is a problem there, just always have to go with a group of talkative friends, or on a low key night. But, just the whole atmosphere did remind me of some places in Italy.

Has anyone ever been to La Cucina di Donatella? Its right by the fish keg.

Well, I guess I was thinking more Greek, lemon, caper foods. Stuff thats different, simply combinations that kind of thing, but I'm up to anything.

The book is great in its entirety. But, I think some of the best stuff definetly centers on the Alinea/Primo comparison and the detailing of how the French Laundry kitchen runs.

Hi, I have been wanting to get into and learn how to cook various types of food from various regions, and I figured nows a good a time as any. I was wondering what books do you suggest teach Mediterranean and Vietnamese cooking best, easy or authentic? Any and all suggestions are appreciated, whether to a book or a forum already dedicated to this, I searched but couldnt find one, thanx. saltz

I'm with you WHT, all that food being wasted is sad. What's the point? I know litigation is a problem, but you think they would research how to limit waste to raise their profit margin! or wait, does capitalism not work perfectly?