Digest: Chicago Food Media Round-Up

[ronnie_suburban]

September 13, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Oregon ascendant...Bill Daley reports on how Oregon-produced Pinot Noir not only shares the stage with Calfornia pinot but also that it often steals the show. Tasting notes are included.

Seafood central...Colin McMahon checks in from Santiago, Chile where he visits the Mercado Central, a fresh seafood mecca.

Running hot and cold...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan walks us through the often-paired tasks of blanching and shocking.

Shop suits visitors to a tea...Elizabeth Owens-Schiele visits Teavana, at the Woodfield Shopping Center in Schaumburg, which is part of an Atlanta-based chain.

A culinary candid camera...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara reports on how one local shopper unwittingly became a participant in The Learning Channel's reality tv series, Take Home Chef.

Cipolline...Renee Enna with a useful guide.

New cooking-class listings online...the staff at the Tribune have rolled out a useful, new, direct link to their Annual Cooking School Guide: 2006 Cooking School Roundup

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

New kid on the block...a brief look at Flourish Bakery Cafe in Edgewater.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Adobo Grill, Park Grill, Binny's (Des Plaines), Va Pensiero, Carnivale and Salud Tequila Lounge.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal reports on Chicago's 'Dine Out' program, which is sponsored by S. Pellegrino, will benefit Share Our Strength and starts on Monday September, 18.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

The fuss about foie gras...It's the Leah A. Zeldes show at the Daily Herald this week. First, she reports that even though many suburban chefs think the City of Chicago's foie gras ban is ridiculous, they're excited to be the only folks in the area who can legally serve it. Ms. Zeldes also provides a Foie gras primer, some tips -- from local chefs -- on how to prepare it as well as a solid list of places in the suburbs where foie gras is served: Where to dine on foie gras in the suburbs.

He savors his journey from immigrant to chef...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Melissa Allen interviews chef Leobardo Servin of Bacchus Nibbles in Kildeer.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

The focus is on African cuisine. Edward McClelland reviews Asmara Cafe in Rogers Park and additional listings are provided for bevy of other African places which include "Ethiopian, Moroccan, Ghananian, Egyptian, and more."

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish (available at the moment via e-mail only), Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Timothy Dahl, formerly the pastry chef at NaHa, has joined the team at Blackbird; replacing Tara Lane who recently left. Replacing Dahl at NaHa will be his current/former assistant there -- and fiancée -- Elizabeth Buettner.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

September 20, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Sweet symbols...Bill Daley takes a look at the Rosh Hashana dessert table and reports on how it reflects the best that fall has to offer.

Hey, Cookie, we're looking for you!...the Good Eating staff announces their Holiday Cookie Contest.

Too `Tasty' to put down...Robin Mather Jenkins provides a brief review of Tasty: Get Great Food on the Table Every Day by Roy Finamore.

A spot of tea . . . at cocktail hour...in this special to the Tribune, Nancy Maes takes a look at the rapidly growing popularity of tea-based cocktails.

Avocado...Donna Pierce with a useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

It's time to tailgate!...BBQ guru Steven Raichlen explores the glories of tailgating -- "a uniquely American institution."

Keeping kosher...food editor Sue Ontiveros provides a brief review of Jewish Cooking for All Seasons the newly-released, first cookbook by Laura Frankel, chef/owner Shallots in Skokie.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Smith & Wollensky, Carlos', Harry Caray's and The Kit Kat Lounge.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal previews 2 upcoming, area appearances by Tyler Florence.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

New year, new book...not to be outdone by the Sun-Times, food editor Deborah Pankey spends some time with Laura Frankel (chef/owner of Shallots in Skokie), as she discusses Jewish cooking and her new cookbook, Jewish Cooking for All Seasons.

Chef watches tastes trend toward authentic Greek cooking...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes interviews chef Panagiotis "Peter" Kappos of Greek Islands, whose primary responsibilities center on their Lombard location and recipe development.

Branch out and pick own apples at local orchards...The DH staff provides a useful listing of local pick-your-own orchards.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

. . . and from the September 15 edition:

Leah A. Zeldes rounds up the local Oktoberfest scene with 2 pieces:

Tap the keg

&

Fests offer more than beer, brats

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

Kate Schmidt takes a look at Marigold, a new, upscale Indian spot in Uptown which is getting quite a bit of attention. David Hammond shares his thoughts about Rios d'Sudamerica in Bucktown and Heather Kenny praises Zocalo in River North, of which her criticisms are mostly minor. Also provided are glimpses of nearly 2 dozen other newly-opened spots around town.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish (again, via e-mail only at this hour), Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on the big news at Alinea.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

September 27, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Act III...Bill Daley takes a loving look at Nature's "third act" and explores the surprising bounties of the fall harvest season. And in this sidebar, he checks in with with Angelic Organics in Caledonia, IL, which was the subject of the documentary file The Real Dirt on Farmer John: Fame, fortune--and, oh yes, farming.

From the farm to your home...Robin Mather Jenkins profiles Irv & Shelly's Fresh Picks, a newly-opened home delivery service which focuses on organic and local offerings.

A ray of sun in the organic food world...Jennifer Carnig takes a look at Sunflower Market in Lincoln Park.

Chanterelles...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix with a useful guide.

Berghoff Oktoberfest...Jerald O'Kennard files the Beer of the Month installment.

Feasting on favas...from Cairo, Monica Eng reports on the beloved local ingredient.

It's the real thing...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan tutors on how to make homemade mayonnaise.

Peggin the harvest...Bill Daley explains how winemakers and wine lovers alike use results of the current harvest season to plan for and predict the year ahead.

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From today's 'new look' Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Making change...Maureen Jenkins reports on how Dan Sullivan's vision single-handedly transformed the Jarvis Square neighborhood.

Recalling spinach...food editor Sue Ontiveros confesses that she's been jonesing for spinach during the current recall period.

Wine, women and Singh...Maureen Jenkins spends some time with Master Sommelier Alpana Singh whose new book, Alpana Pours: About Being a Woman, Loving Wine & Having Great Relationships is now in bookstores. You can also learn What your favorite wine says about you and read a few of Singh's nuggets of wine-drinking wisdom.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Delilah's, Le Titi de Paris, Bistro 110, Chicago Athletic Association, Sushisamba Rio and Pier 5736.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal reports on the Chicago restaurant industry's upcoming slate of offerings, programs and roll-outs.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Dinner on the cheap...food editor Deborah Pankey with an incidental review of Cheap. Fast. Good! by Alicia Ross and Beverly Mills.

Mainland palates enjoy a taste of Hawaii...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes interviews chef Kelly Tyree of The Tiki Terrace in Prospect Heights.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

A pizza primer -- and fairly comprehensive list of area outlets -- by Michael Lenehan et al.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby interview chef -- and former professional dancer -- Alyson Nehren, of the soon-to-bow Odesso from Franco Gianni (Rushmore, Sushi Wabi).

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

October 4, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Pucker up ......Robin Mather Jenkins explores the intricacies of vinegar as she visits with experts and several local chefs to get their input about this ancient ingredient.

Vacuum-packing foods locks in goodness...Robin Mather Jenkins explores the burgeoning practice of vacuum-packing foods at home.

Minimizing the risks...in the wake of the recent spinach/e. coli scare, Janet Helm lays out some tips, techniques and practices that can mitigate the dangers of foodbourne illnesses.

A `Joy' to behold...Robin Mather Jenkins previews the 75th anniversary edition of Joy of Cooking, which will hit the shelves in November.

Turn on the oven to stretch fruit's staying power...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce provides tips on how to use one's oven to "to take advantage of extra produce or fruit that's on sale."

Radicchio...Joe Gray provides a useful guide.

Exploding with flavor...Bill Daley explores the multitude of wines which pair well with a Chicago original -- Chicken Vesuvio.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Bacon from A to Z...Leah A. Zeldes provides a glorious bacon primer which includes comments from local chefs, a list of bacon resources, a glossary and even details about a local exhibit in which the hog processing is documented and demonstrated.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Flight, Harry Caray's, Shaw's, BIN 36, Di Pescara and Green Zebra.

Food news...in this week's installment, Denise I. O'Neal previews several upcoming food industry events, programs and roll-outs, including events at Corner Cooks and The Book Stall in Winnetka.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Paragon chef did not follow ideal route...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Melissa Allen profiles chef Terry Riesterer of Hoffman Estates, who was recently named Chef of the Year by the American Personal Chef Association.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

The focus is on Cafes as Anne Ford files a review of Ventrella's Caffe in Ravenswood. An additional listing of 24 other cafes and coffee shops is provided as well.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby interview Chicago restaurant veteran Steve Chiappetti, who has returned to the scene at Viand, the eatery in Marriott Courtyard's Streeterville location.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

October 11, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Freezer burn...Bill Daley explains that he finally received an assisgment he couldn't complete -- eating frozen entrees for a week straight. Still, he manages to chart his experiences for our benefit.

The elegant egg...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan schools us on how to make French-style omeletes -- a true test of a chef's mettle.

Cupcakes on parade...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara documents the epiphanous day he spent on a Cupcake Crawl with the local foodie group, Chicago Bites.

Following Grandma's lead...Elizabeth Schiele profiles Solomon's Kitchen & Gifts in Bucktown.

Unlocking the aroma within...in this special to the Tribune, Brian McCormick visits high-end tea vendor, Ineeka, Inc., in the Kinzie Street industrial corridor, and learns some of the finer points about the herbacious beverage.

Beets...Joe Gray with a useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Turning over a new leaf...Sandy Thorn Clark reports that now that spinach has again been deemed safe, it can resume its previous role as the love it or hate it vegetable.

African discovery...Maureen Jenkins visits with chef Marcus Samuelsson who has a new book on the shelves: The Soul of a New Cuisine: A Discovery of the Foods and Flavors of Africa.

Handy advice...food editor Sue Ontiveros provides some tips and insights in the wake of the recent spinach safety crisis.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at University Club, Jaks Tap, Tangley Oaks, Adobo Grill, Delilah's, Take Five and Rhapsody.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal reports on an upcoming Diwali celebration at Vermilion and a book-signing appearance by Gale Gand at Sur La Table on east Walton Street.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Silly rabbit, your cereal-hawking days may be ending...food editor Deborah Pankey applauds the prospective news that General Mills may soon be dropping the animated characters that have been long-associated with their products marketed to children.

Everything local baker sees is a piece of cake...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes interviews ". . . cake wizard and sugar artist Mark Seaman, whose by-appointment-only Marked for Dessert studio in Chicago has been a sweet standby for society weddings, birthday parties and corporate events since 2001. . ." Mr. Seaman recently opened a retail outlet in Libertyville, as well.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From the October 6 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

David Hammond files the 5th installment in his Beyond the Burrito series, as he takes a look at the cuisine of the Mexican state of Guerrero. A convenient list of local spots which serve Guerrerense dishes, is also provided.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Dirk Flanigan (Meritage, Blue Water Grill) has signed to become the executive chef of The Gage, a soon-to-open restaurant and tavern located in the Gage Building, on south Michigan Avenue.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

October 18, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Culinary curio shop...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara gets chefs' takes on some of the more unnecessary kitchen gadgets available these days. And in this sidebar essay, Emily Nunn gets her "cooking gadget comeuppance": Superfluous, unnecessary gadgets fill the shelves. (And, say, where can I buy them?)

Carnival squash...Renee Enna with a useful guide.

It just makes `Sense'...Bill Daley reviews Kitchen Sense by Mitchell Davis.

The buzz on wine shops...Nancy Maes and Christina Biggs round up several recently opened (and not so recently opened) wine shops around town.

Bread-crumb basics put loaves to work...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce investigates the differences between fresh and dried bread-crumbs and provides some tips on making your own.

Returning to the old ways--really old...Robin Mather Jenkins spends time with some culinarians as they gathered recently in New York to celebrate the restoration of an edition of Apicii--de re Coquinaria, thought to be the oldest cookbook in the Western world.

Wine, please! (But hold the attitude)...Bill Daley profiles Chicago-based Master Sommelier Alpana Singh, and takes a look at her new book Alpana Pours, which is in stores now.

Functional fungi...Janet Helm reports on the disease-fighting benefits of mushrooms.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Big red...Pomegranate maven Ann Kleinberg with an informative primer.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Jaks Tap, Tin Fish, Greek Islands, embrace, Socca, Geja's Cafe, Di Pescara, Dine, Marche, Adobo Grill and Restaurant Michael.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal offers a few dining suggestions for participants in this Sunday's Chicago Marathon.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Food-borne illness can be avoided by taking these simple steps...food editor Deborah Pankey provides some straightforward advice.

Chef mixes playfulness with simplicity...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Mike Michaelson profiles chef David K. Miller of the Old Rittenhouse Inn in Bayfield, WI.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

Martha Bayne takes a look at Tru's new Lounge. This edition also focuses on several other 'new' ventures around town.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Todd Stein will be leaving mk, after nearly 3 years there as chef de cuisine.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

October 25, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Something wiggly this way comes...As Halloween approaches, Bill Daley evokes memories of my father and explores the joys of jellied confections.

As simple as stir, stir, stir...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan reveals the keys to turning out successful risotto.

Italy's unsung glories...Joe Gray reviews The Glorious Soups and Stews of Italy by Domenica Marchetti.

Scram, critters!...Bill Daley reminds us that Australia is producing some of the best wines in the world -- in spite of the cutesy labels that appear on some of its lower-end bottles.

Unibroue La Fin du Monde...Jerald O'Kennard files the Beer of the Month installment.

Any way you slice it, report finds that convenience is king...Robin Mather Jenkins reports on the growing popularity of convenience foods for dinner -- and she's got the statistics to back it up.

Pine nuts...Donna Pierce files this useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Make Halloween a boogie night...Sandy Thorn Clark reports on the unsettling marriage of Halloween and Disco.

Cute and creative...Denise I. O'Neal reports on the Halloween-themed treats being turned out by Swirlz Bakery and the 12th annual Gourdzilla event, taking place at foodlife in the Water Tower Place mezzanine, through Halloween.

Tastings around town...Previews of upcoming events at Scoozi, Vermilion, Carlucci (Downers Grove) and O'Donovan's.

From the October 23 edition:

Just like grandma used to bake...Janet Rausa Fuller reports that Flourish Bakery in Edgewater will be happy to bake your treasured family recipes for you, as part of their "family traditions recipe support" program.

From the October 20 edition::

A change is brewing...Mike Thomas reports from the most recent monthly meeting of the Chicago Beer Society, which took place at Goose Island Brew Pub in early October.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Pizzas in the microwave? They're soggy no more...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on a new wrinkle in frozen pizza packaging, which makes the frozen pies even closer to those turned out by pizzerias.

Chef finds his true home in Ristoriante Lorica...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Melissa Allen profiles and interviews chef Tony Acri of Lombard's Ristoriante Lorica.

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

Susannah J. Felts takes a look at Tipsycake in Humboldt Park and profiles its owner, Naomi Stepanek. A useful listing of 'international' bakeries is also provided.

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In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on the unusual conduit through which chef Michael Hazen got his new job at Ristorante We.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

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[ronnie_suburban]

November 1, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The good eating awards...The staff at Good Eating announce their 2006 award recipients. Winners include Doug Sohn (Hot Doug's) Jean Joho (Everest, Brasserie Jo) and Shelley Young (The Chopping Block), to name just a few.

Rising to the occasion...in this Special to the Tribune, Janis Cooke Newman describes the epiphany and breakthrough she experienced after reproducing Mary Todd Lincoln's vanilla-almond cake over and over again.

Starter wines...Bill Daley reports on how low-priced bottles can lead enthusiastic wine "...drinkers up the scale to better pours." Tasting notes are included.

Gadget lovers, unite!...several readers respond -- with gusto -- to the Trib's October 18th piece about superfluous kitchen gadgets.

Pomegranates...Bill Daley files this useful guide.

What on earth is for dinner?...a brief review of the Hungry Planet: What the World Eats exhibit taking place at the Museum of Science and Industry, now through January 2, 2007.

`Super' mart lives up to its name...Susan Taylor visits the recently-opened Super H Mart in Niles, which specializes in Korean goods.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Classics with a twist...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles 3 food-loving locals who have converted their passion for local fare into entrepreneurial bliss.

Thanksgiving countdown...food editor Sue Ontiveros accurately explains that "planning now cuts down on stress later."

Comfort downs...just days before the annual Breeder's Cup, Dave Hoekstra reports from Louisville on some local food traditions that will run alongside the big races on Saturday. Hoekstra also reports on the menu which will be offered at Churchill Downs on Saturday: Breeders' Cup menu.

Tastings around town...previews of upcoming events at Michael, Geja's Cafe, Polo Cafe and Catering, TTC and Vinci.

Food news...among other news, Denise I. O'Neal reports that the Green City Market will move inside, for its first winter market, which begins today. Chefs Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris of Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook, will kick off the new, indoor season with a cooking demo this morning.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Market Day delivers to your door ... for a price...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on a new service offered by Market Day. She also previews an upcoming appearance by Dorie Greenspan, which will take place this coming Saturday at the Culinary Historians of Chicago meeting, at 10 a.m.

He has the right ingredients for teaching, cooking...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes profiles chef, teacher and administrator Michael Artlip who ". . . chairs the school's [Kendall College] associates degree program in culinary arts, oversees the bachelor's degree program in pastry arts, serves on the faculty senate, works with the student-run Cafe, consults to the food service industry and still has time to teach budding chefs about meat and fish cookery, the art of garde manger, international cuisine and more."

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

Nicholas Day focuses on goat, as he visits a few places in town which are, supposedly, known for it. Also provided in the More Meat sidebar is a list of "Twenty-three good choices for carnivores."

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In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby break the news that (future) Alinea alum Joe Ziomek is headed back to the former Trio space in Evanston. He's been hired as the GM of Quince, the new eatery which will bow there in early December.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

November 8, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Party in a box?...Robin Mather Jenkins and Bill Daley scout out some convenient solutions and provide some great tips for doing holiday entertaining on the fly.

Satisfying a hunger...Robin Mather Jenkins reports from Turin, Italy, where she attended Slow Food's recently completed Terra Madre summit.

Northern exposure...Bill Daley endures the grueling task of sampling Canadian ice wines Tasting notes are included.

Event celebrates black chefs and restaurateurs...Donna Pierce files a report from the Taste of Ebony event, which took place in New York in late October.

Did someone say chocolate?...Renee Enna reviews 300 Best Chocolate Recipes by Julie Hasson.

Council tries to cast new light on genetics and food...nutrition expert Janet Helm reports that the ". . . Illinois Humanities Council is hosting statewide 'conversations' on genetics and food, bringing together an ethicist, geneticist and food historian to objectively examine the issue from various perspectives."

There's another way to slice it...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan reprises an installment from last January with another take on slicing onions.

Hen of the woods...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix files this useful guide.

Trader Joe's set to open off Mag Mile...Renee Enna reports that the newest area store will open this coming Friday.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Climbing out of carryout...food editor Sue Ontiveros reports on one local family's (The Schultzes) attempt to go 30 days without carryout.

Find the right cookbooks for quick meals...Sue Ontiveros with a list of some tried and true convenience cookbooks, which were used successfully by the Schultzes. And Todd English provides the Schultzes with a few more tips about how best to set up a kitchen for functionality: To get cooking started, kitchen must be inviting. Also provided are copies of Mary Ann Schultz's original e-mail to the Sun-Times and the journal she kept during the project.

Finalize plans, be open to some help...Sue Ontiveros continues her series on stress-free Thanksgiving preparation.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Lawry's The Prime Rib, Blackbird and Vong's Thai Kitchen.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal reports on a couple of happenings at Northbrook's Prairie Grass Cafe, including a pie-making demonstration and tasting hosted by chef Sarah Stegner and her mother, Elizabeth (who makes all the restaurant's pies), and the restaurant's first annual Holiday Cookie contest.

From the November 6 edition:

Nothing says wine like . . . Ditka?...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on 'da coach's new line of California wines, which will be available at Costco, Binny's and Dominick's, among other outlets.

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

Mike Sula reveals one of his favorite spots for Pho and a list of some favored Vietnamese spots is also provided.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Frill, the upcoming "supper clubby spot" from Steve McDonagh and Dan Smith (aka the Hearty Boys), set to open in Wrigleyville next spring.

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

November 15, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Fiesta of flavor...Bill Daley explores the easy-to-apply Latin twist on the traditional Thanksgiving meal. He visits with several local chefs to get some of their more inspired techniques. He also provides some great suggestions for pairing the Latin-influenced meal with Chilean wines, in this piece: The other Americans.

A tip of the hat to a timesaving tome...Renee Enna takes a look at 834 Kitchen Quick Tips, by America's Test Kitchen and passes on a few tips directly from the book.

7 steps to a successful holiday meal...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan provides a road map for a sane and enjoyable Thanksgiving experience.

A helping hand for seniors...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor profiles Corner Cooks in Winnetka and focuses on their program which trains folks to make quality meals in advance, for the elderly.

Will vegetarians be at the Thanksgiving table?...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce provides some tips and insights for those who will be hosting vegetarians on Thanksgiving.

Rosemary...Bill Daley files this useful guide.

Hot line to holiday help...the AP, along with the Good Eating staff, provide a comprehensive listing of help sources for Thanksgiving cooking and food safety information.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

The stuff of legends...Sandy Thorn Clark visits with local chefs who share their tips, secrets and recipes for Thanksgiving stuffing.

Almost there: Shop and try new products...food editor Sue Ontiveros continues her series on how to prep for a stress-free Thanksgiving.

Take heart, chocolate lovers...Janet Rausa Fuller reports on a study which inadvertantly revealed that "...chocolate cuts the risk of heart attack by minimizing blood clotting."

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Brookfield Zoo and Goose Island Brew Company.

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal lists several restaurants in town which are offering Thanksgiving menus.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Tyler's Ultimate Thanksgiving...food editor Deborah Pankey profiles the food network star and takes a look at his latest book: Tyler's Ultimate: Brilliant Simple Food to Make Anytime.

Passion as a chef keeps his dream alive...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Melissa Allen profiles Josh Humphrey, executive chef at Sam and Harry's in Schaumburg.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

The focus in on new stuff, as Heather Kenny writes up De La Costa. Also profiled are Adesso, Broadway Cellars and 20 other recently-opened spots.

=====

And at Chicago Magazine's web site, you can find the entire Chefs feature -- penned by Penny Pollack, Jeff Ruby, Jennifer Tanaka, and Dennis Ray Wheaton -- which originally appeared in the November print issue. Included is their somewhat controversial list of Chicago's 50 Top Chefs.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

November 21, 2006...

With the Thanksgiving holiday this week, the food sections are running early, so we are too!

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

A classic, redesigned...Renee Enna takes a long, loving look at the iconic Sweet Potato Casserole and provides some sage advice on how to tune it up a bit.

Rice and vinegar, and all the trimmings...Robin Mather Jenkins checks in with author Andrew F. Smith whose book The Turkey: An American Story dispels many myths about the Thanksgiving holiday and the turkey with which it is often associated.

Celery root...Renee Enna files this useful guide.

A passionate approach to chocolate...Jennifer Carnig profiles Coco Rouge in Wicker Park.

A port in every style...Bill Daley explains why "the storied Portuguese fortified wine makes for perfect holiday sipping." Tasting notes are included.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

You set the table...Sandy Thorn Clark rounds up the readers' choices for what to serve with the traditional Thanksgiving turkey.

Last chance for advance preparation...food editor Sue Ontiveros files the final installment of her series on how to enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving.

=====

From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Hard sell...food editor Deborah Pankey delivers the 411 on highly underrated winter squash.

Aye, Matie! Chef tries more casual fare...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Leah A. Zeldes profiles chef Roberto Reyes of Grace O'Malley's restaurant on Chicago's South Side.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

The focus is on brewers as Nicholas Day reports on the nascient rivalry between Jonathan Cutler of Piece in Chicago and Matt Van Wyk of Flossmoor Station Restaurant & Brewery in Flossmoor. Also provided is a listing of several other distinctive, local breweries.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

November 29, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Comfort and joy...the Good Eating staff announce the winners of their annual holiday cookie contest and yes, recipes are included!

Samuel Smith's Winter Welcome Ale...Jerald O'Kennard files the Beer of the Month installment.

Wines of Christmas yet to come...Bill Daley reports that even though many domestic Cabernets need some cellaring, there are still some strong 'drink-now' options available on the shelves for those who don't have anything on hand. Tasting notes are included.

Gastronomy U...Robin Mather Jenkins takes a look at Slow Food's University of Gastronomic Science in Pollenzo, Italy, whose mission is to train epicures.

Closed, sealed and preserved...Robin Mather Jenkins reports on the benefits of vacuum sealing foods and details several options for the home consumer.

Here's looking at you, cookie...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan explains how to dress up your holiday cookies like the pros do.

Hazelnuts...Joe Gray files this useful guide.

Tradition and innovation make a sweet combination...Christina Biggs profiles Marked for Dessert, The Neighborhood Bakeshop in Libertyville.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Treasured treats...Sandy Thorn Clark profiles sisters Marilynn and Sheila Brass and their new cookbook, Heirloom Baking with the Brass Sisters.

Savoring the flavors...Sandy Thorn Clark reports on recent meetings between Chicago-area chefs and sommeliers which provided opportunities for experimentation with new food and wine pairings.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Geja's, Carlucci (Downers Grove) and Spiaggia.

=====

From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

The winners of the Daily Herald Cookie/Candy Contest...the winners in each category are announced.

Back-to-basics approach serves him well...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Melissa Allen profiles chef Klaus Lotter, "executive chef at Indian Lake Resort's Sedona Grille and Masters Clubhouse in Bloomingdale."

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

The focus is on eastern Europe via Chicago's south side. Michael Gebert reviews Szalas and David Hammond reviews Klas. Also provided is a list of several other spots which specialize in eastern European fare.

=====

In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview the Juicy Wine Company, a new wine and cheese shop from Rodney Alex (Rushmore, Taste), scheduled to open in late December.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

December 6, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Winter's kiss...Bill Daley explains that even though winter is upon us, there are still several produce options available for those who want to eat locally and sustainably.

The fruitcake problem...in this amusing special essay, Jeremy Jackson reports what most of us already know: fruitcakes generally suck.

Gifts wine lovers can cozy up to...Bill Daley compiles an interesting list.

From the farm...Nicholas Day reports on Wisconsin's Snug Haven Farm, which, with a bit of resourcefulness, turns out spinach for several markets and restaurants on a nearly year-round basis.

These scares won't stick...in this special to the Tribune, Elizabeth Brewster debunks several myths about the risks of using various types of cookware.

Seeing double...Alison Neumer Lara reports on how some families are taking full advantage of technological breakthroughs to help them preserve important culinary traditions and rites in the kitchen.

Memories of potica...in this special to the Tribune, Eleanor Ostman waxes poetic about this Slovenian nut bread and explains how it helped bridge cultures in the Minnesota region where she was raised.

Grapefruit...Donna Pierce files this useful guide.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Feeding the need for noodles...Leah A. Zeldes reports on how one diabetic, area restauranteur developed a bean extract which allowed him to have his noodles and eat them too.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Delilah's, Cafe Matou and Seasons Lounge in the Four Seasons Hotel.

Getting into the holiday spirit...in this week's Food News, Denise I. O'Neal reports on what several area restaurants are doing to get into the spirit of this charitable season.

=====

From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chef pioneers use of locally grown products...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Leah A. Zeldes profiles and interviews local pioneer, chef and restaurant consultant Michael Foley, former owner of the legendary Printer's Row in Chicago.

There's no disputing that cinnamon is the scent of the season...food editor Deborah Pankey investigates spice that says Christmas, for many of us.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

David Hammond concludes his distinctive and informative series on regional Mexican cooking in Chicagoland with the sixth installment: Beyond the Burrito, Part 6: Yucatan, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on some big, upcoming changes -- in both chef and cuisine -- planned at Le Lan.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

December 13, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Book of the year: 'The Soul of A New Cuisine'...at the very top of the Good Eating section's 12 Best Cookbooks of the season is Marcus Samuelsson's Soul of a New Cuisine. Donna Pierce profiles the book and its author -- and excerpted recipes are provided.

The rest of Good Eating's list is also provided as follows (reviewer's names are in parentheses):

Baking: From My Home to Yours by Dorie Greenspan (Renee Enna)

The Improvisational Cook by Sally Schneider (Renee Enna)

Black Forest Cuisine: The Classic Blending of European Flavors by Walter Staib (Bill Daley)

Keep it Seasonal: Soups, Salads and Sandwiches by Annie Wayte (Joe Gray)

Happy in the Kitchen by Michel Richard with Susie Heller and Peter Kaminsky (Carol Mighton Haddix)

Curry Cuisine: Fragrant Dishes from India, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia by Corinne Trang, et al. (Robin Mather Jenkins)

Cooking from the Heart of Spain: Food of La Mancha by Janet Mendel (Carol Mighton Haddix).

The Lee Bros. Southern Cookbook by Matt Lee and Ted Lee (Donna Pierce).

Arabesque: A taste of Morocco, Turkey & Lebanon by Claudia Roden (Robin Mather Jenkins).

Jamie's Italy by Jamie Oliver (Joe Gray).

Into the Vietnamese Kitchen: Treasured Foodways, Modern Flavors by Andrea Nguyen (Bill Daley).

More newcomers worthy of mention...the Good Eating staff list several additional cookbooks which are still worthy tomes, even though they didn't make the Top 12 list.

Information please!...Robin Mather Jenkins takes a look at The Oxford Companion to Food by Alan Davidson, The Food Encyclopedia by Jacques L. Rolland and Carol Sherman, Starting with Ingredients: Quintessential Recipes for the Way We Really Cook by Aliza Green and the CIA's The Professional Chef.

Holiday helpers...Renee Enna profiles several cookbooks which could prove especially useful at holiday time: Antipasti: Fabulous Appetizers and Small Plates by Joyce Goldstein, Chocolate & Vanilla by Gale Gand, The Farmstead Egg Cookbook by Terry Golson, Beautiful Breads & Fabulous Fillings: The Best Sandwiches in America by Margaux Sky and Truffles: 50 Deliciously Decadent Homemade Chocolate Treats by Dede Wilson.

Spirited books for the season...Bill Daley rounds up some of the year's best titles in the 'Wine and Spirits' category.

Documentary celebrates artisanal craft of Wisconsin cheesemakers...Rick Asa takes a look at Living on the Wedge, a documentary film about the up-and-coming artisanal Wisconsin cheese scene, produced by Evanston's Gaylon Emerzian and Mari Coyne. The film is scheduled to air on WTTW this Friday at 9:30 pm CT.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Beautiful brisket...with Hannukah just around the corner Marlene Gelfond shares a friend's brisket recipe; one she has treasured for nearly 40 years.

Tiny bites . . . big taste...Janet Rausa Fuller takes a look ahead to 2007 and predicts that restaurants will continue to focus on small plates and small desserts.

Cheers to these drinks...Denise I. O'Neal provides a list of several non-alcoholic holiday beverages. Links to recipes and listed products are provided.

=====

From this week's Daily Herald - Food section:

He flavors his approach to cooking with flair, fun...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles Mark Downing of Sequel in Lombard.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

The focus is again on new venues, as brief reviews of Fiddlehead Cafe, Taos and The Pierogi Factory are filed. An additional list of 20 other, relatively new spots is also provided.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby preview Sapore di Napoli, a new pizzeria/gelateria with an imported, Moretti Forni oven, set to open in Lakeview by year's end.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

December 20, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Toast to the roast...Robin Mather Jenkins visits with 3 local butchers -- including my main man, Dave Zier -- and gets their professional opinions on the best holiday roasts, recipes and cooking methods.

Presents for the cook...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan assures the procrastinating shoppers among us that there is still time to find that great gift for the cooking enthusiasts on our lists.

Bringing out the sophisticate in you...Robin Mather Jenkins reviews The Bon Appetit Cookbook, edited by Barbara Fairchild.

`Almost Famous' student is definitely a winner...in this special to the Tribune, Susan Taylor reports on Ranbir Batra of Kendall College, who recently won the S. Pellegrino "Almost Famous Chef" national competition.

Star pours...Bill Daley provides some guidance on the "celebrity" wine segment. Tasting notes are included.

Chicago-based tasting panel rates the top bargains in wine...Joe Gray reports the results of the most recent World Value Wine Challenge, held annually by the Beverage Tasting Institute, which is headed by the Tribune's Beer of the Month contributer, Jerald O'Kennard.

Roll out the barrel...Matt McGuire reports on the growing popularity of beer aged in bourbon barrels. Tasting notes are included.

Take it easy, mon ami...Bill Daley visits with Mireille Guiliano, the president and CEO of Veuve Clicquot, who lays out her relatively simple method for enjoying the holiday season.

Apple pie dreams...Susan Taylor reports from the recently completed Le Cordon Bleu Schools North America Tarte aux Pommes High School Scholarship Competition, in which 3 local high-schoolers earned top honors.

Pinata apple...Robin Mather Jenkins files this useful guide.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Feast of the Seven Fishes...Leah A. Zeldes reports on this Italian-Catholic holiday tradition and explains how chef John Caputo of Bin 36 will adapt it for the restaurant on Christmas Eve.

Blue Plate Chicago bakes up holiday cookies for your table...Denise I. O'Neal provides the details.

From the December 18 edition:

Horseradish harvest may leave bitter taste...AP's Jim Suhr reports from the horseradish-growing capital of the U.S., Collinsville, IL, and explains that locals are worried over this year's potentially short crop.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Gifts of good taste...food editor Deborah Pankey provides her list of 'tasteful,' food-related holiday gift ideas.

Resort chef focuses on diverse selection of meals...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, Mike Michaelson profiles executive chef Robert Fedorko of Ristorante Brissago at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

=====

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

The staff at The Reader take care of some end-of-the-year business with a Champagne primer (including local sources) and a recap of the most frequently rated restaurants of 2006.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Jerry Kleiner (Opera, Carnivale) is in the early stages of developing a Hinsdale space into a "'turn-of-the-century Italian trattoria/grocery store . . .'" which is likely to open in the 3rd quarter of 2007.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

December 27, 2006...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Best of 2006...the Good Eating staff and food editor Carol Mighton Haddix list their Top 10 recipes of 2006.

Match made in hog heaven...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara reports on pork's new wave and the increased chef focus in pairing it innovatively with beer.

Five timely guides for a more healthful you...with the New Year upon us, nutrition specialist Janet Helm recommends her 5 favorite health and nutrition books.

Spa cuisine...Joe Gray reviews the latest cookbook from Charlie Trotter: Spa Cuisine.

Cheaper by the bubble...Bill Daley explains why Spanish sparkling wines are one of the best post-holiday values on the wine front.

Cheeses offer a tasty tour of Spain...in this special to the Tribune, Lisa Futterman files a brief primer of Spanish cheeses. Tasting notes are included.

Okocim Porter...Jerald O'Kennard files the Beer Of The Month installment.

Parsnips...Renee Enna files this useful guide.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Best recipes 2006...food editor Sue Ontiveros lists the Sun Times' 10 faves of '06.

Top it off in style...Sandy Thorn Clark investigates the 'art of the sauce' with Cafe Matou's chef Charlie Socher.

Bans, pomegranates, Ray dominate food news...Sandy Thorn Clark lists her Top 5 food stories of 2006.

From the December 26 edition:

What ban? Chefs to openly dish up foie gras...Janet Rausa Fuller reports that few chefs, if any, are planning to adhere to the City of Chicago's foie gras ban on New Year's Eve.

From the December 22 edition

Cold outside? Warm up with high tea...Maureen Jenkins checks in on the informal high tea program being offered at the James Hotel.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Cooks of the Year 2006...Laura Bianchi files the DH's list.

Manila native believes in bold tastes...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Leah A. Zeldes profiles Kristine Subido, chef at Wave restaurant in the W Chicago Lakeshore Hotel.

=====

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

David Hammond explains why celebration of the holiday season is particularly special at Tre Kronor in Albany Park. Also provided is a list of 2006's favorite spots, according the Reader's raters.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

January 3, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The next big thing(s)...Bill Daley queries the Good Eating staff to get their take on the likely food trends of 2007.

Some good news, and some bad news...Bill Daley reports that 2007 will bring some good news and some bad news as it relates to wine and other libations in Illinois.

Prickly pear...food editor Carol Mighton Haddix files this useful review.

Gold rush in Long Grove...Elizabeth Owens-Schiele profiles The Olive Tap in Long Grove, where 15-20 varieties of extra virgin olive oil are sold, on tap.

Over easy, over and over!...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan teaches readers how to turn out the "perfect" over-easy egg.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

New dining destinations...Maureen Jenkins previews what's on the horizon in 2007 for some area chefs including Rick Tramonto, Gale Gand, Tony Mantuano and Paul Kahan.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews the week's upcoming events at Fox & Obel, Sage Grille (Highwood), one sixtyblue and Vinci.

VTK Vong's Thai Kitchen makes time for tea...Denise I. O'Neal reports that January is National Tea Month and that ". . . VTK will celebrate with a host of activities centered around the preferred Asian beverage."

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Chefs step out of the kitchens for a good cause...food editor Deborah Pankey touts the "Chefs out of the Kitchen" cookbook which, in 2005, provided nearly 20,000 meals to seniors in DuPage, Kane, McHenry, Lake, Will, Kendall and Kankakee counties.

Tapas top his list as a dining experience...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles and interviews executive chef and co-owner of Naperville's Meson Sabika, Filemon Ochoa.

=====

From the December 29, 2006 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Martha Bayne visits Cru Cafe & Wine Bar on the Gold Coast, Mike Sula wonders aloud whether Osteria di Tramonto in Wheeling is worth the trip up from the city (although, he never really answers his own question) and David Hammond files a brief review of Kansaku in Evanston.

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In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report on Geno Bahena's imminent return to the Chicago dining scene, with Tepatulco in Lincoln Park, scheduled to open this Friday, January 5.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

January 10, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Chicago's `big apple'...in this special to the Tribune, Steven L. Katz explores Chicago's century-long love affair with the apple pancake and explains that they really are fairly easy to make at home. A recipe is provided.

D is for diet--and dessert...Renee Enna reviews Perfect Light Desserts by Nick Malgieri and David Joachim.

Rambutan...Robin Mather Jenkins files this useful guide.

Nutrition sneak...in this special to the Tribune, JoAnn Milivojevic explains that sandwiches aren't necessarily an unhealthy accompaniment to playoff football.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Chicago spots bowl 'em over...Denise I. O'Neal rounds up several spots in town which are offering soup specials during the winter months.

From the January 5 edition:

Classes get cooking for Winter 2007...Maureen Jenkins previews the Winter 2007 World Kitchen Cooking Classes, sponsored by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Hey, amateur cooks, here's a recipe contest with some meat in it...food editor Deborah Pankey previews this year's Grand Chefs Gala and Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence, which are scheduled to take place on February 2 at the Fairmont Hotel.

A dash of 'quirkiness' flavors his Midwest cuisine...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Leah A. Zeldes profiles chef Greg Darrah of Sage Grille in Highwood.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

Heather Kenny kicks off the year with a review of Coco Rouge in Wicker Park. Also provided is a list of several other recommended spots in Wicker Park.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby fill in the details on some news we reported yesterday: Chef Ryan Poli's departure from Butter.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

January 17, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Shaking Buddha's hand...with unfortunately ironic timing (due to a catastrophic freeze in California), Bill Daley provides a primer of exotic citrus fruits, most of which will probably be very difficult to source this year. Recipes from noted chefs are provided.

Embracing the acid...Bill Daley files this companion piece, which provides guidance on how to effectively pair wines with citrus-infused dishes.

Getting to know you...in this special to the Tribune, William C. Meyers explains that "Scotch and Bourbon, the drinks of grown-ups, take a little time to reveal their secrets"

Nameko mushrooms...Donna Pierce files this useful guide.

A voice of the Midwest podcast...in this special to the Tribune, Diane Daniel previews the newest audio offering from Anne Bramley, Eat Feed Midwest: Great Food from the Great Lakes to the Great Plains, which is slated to debut on Monday at eatfeedmidwest.com.

Where we turn for help among new reference books...the Tribune's Test Kitchen Director, Donna Pierce, lists a few of her "go to" sources for definitive information.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Practice, practice for perfect pie...Sandy Thorn Clark explains that with ". . . National Pie Day Tuesday, it's the perfect, perfect time to momentarily shelve your New Year's resolution to lose pounds and inches in respect to your other New Year's resolution: to learn how to bake the perfect pie."

Food news...Denise I. O'Neal previews "Chicago's [so called] Top 10 Culinary Delights, which are part of this year's schedule for Chicago Winter Delights, which runs through Feb. 28."

From the Jaunary 16 edition:

Her recipe the key to Connie's Pizza...staff reporters Rosalind Rossi and Tim Novak provide this obituary for "Concetta DeGrazia, the 'Connie' behind Connie's Pizza, [who] died Saturday at age 91."

From the January 15 edition:

That's rich: Fancy restaurants hike prices...Janet Rausa Fuller reports that several high-end restaurants in town, including Alinea and Avenues, will raise some prices, going into 2007.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Health-boosting omega-3 coming to a product near you...Food editor Deborah Pankey says that, according to USA Today, Omega-3 fatty acids will be the "hottest food additive of 2007."

Hearty food from the heartland satisfies him...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Leah A. Zeldes profiles chef Stephen Langlois, a veteran of the iconic Prairie, who currently oversees a few restaurants as the executive chef of the Hyatt Lodge in Oak Brook.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

The focus is on meatless fast food, as Ann Ford reviews Veggie Bite in Mount Greenwood. Also provided is a list of other 'vegetarian-friendly' spots throughout the city.

The Oyster Whisperer...Mike Sula profiles chef Mark Mavrantonis of Fulton's on the River and explains chef's deep love of the bivalve.

=====

In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm that Meztiso on N. Wells has indeed morphed into the Yucatecan Xel-Há, under the hand of seasoned industry veteran, Dudley Nieto.

=====

=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

January 24, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Blue heaven...Jean Thilmany and Robin Mather Jenkins profile the legendary Maytag Dairy Farms in Newton, Iowa.

Drink to the blues...speaking of Blue Cheese, Bill Daley provides some advice on pairing wine with blue cheeses. Tasting notes are included.

Plenty of citrus out there despite California freeze...Bill Daley reports that in spite of a devastating freeze in California last week, there's still plenty of citrus on the market, even if the prices are creeping up a bit higher than normal.

Broccoflower...Renee Enna files this useful guide.

Sweets with an Aussie touch...Nancy Maes profiles TipsyCake in Humboldt Park.

=====

From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Hot Bears play role in food specials...Denise I. O'Neal lists a few places around town which are offering specials that tie in to the Bears' upcoming trip to Super Bowl XLI.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at Bistro 110, Prairie Grass Cafe, Scoozi, Vong's Thai Kitchen and Nacional 27.

From the January 18 edition:

Freeze chills Calif. citrus crop...Janet Rausa Fuller provides some salient market details in the wake of last week's devastating freeze in California.

=====

From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Marker will help keep pantry items up to date...food editor Deborah Pankey has a new pantry and has devised a system which will allow her to use the items stored there more efficiently.

No shortcuts for this transplanted Polish chef...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles Jaroslaw Budzinski, head chef of Shop and Save Market (Des Plaines, Schaumburg and Niles).

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

=====

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

The focus is on Taiwanese and Chinese cuisines as Nicholas Day and Anya Bernstein file a review of KS Seafood in Chinatown. Also provided is a list of several favored spots in Chinatown.

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In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Marty Fosse, a former GM at Spiaggia, will open Anteprima, a regional Italian spot, this March in Andersonville.

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=R=

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Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

January 31, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

The layered look...Robin Mather Jenkins provides this tutorial on soups, which emphasizes the importance of layering flavors in building a successful final product.

How to feed a ravenous Bear (fan)...Renee Enna visits with the pros and solicits some solid advice on assembling a great Super Bowl menu.

Prices you can Bear...Bill Daley scouts some lower priced wines ($6 and under) which will pair well with most Super Bowl fare. Tasting notes are included.

Stocking up...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan walks us through the steps required to make great stock.

Policing the organic label...in this special to the Tribune, Laura Hodes explores the often-obscured details of foreign-grown organic produce.

Rogue Ales Chocolate Stout...Jerald O'Kennard files the Beer of the Month installment.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Throw a Soup-er Bowl party...Sandy Thorn Clark suggests serving a buffet of Bears-themed chilis on Super Bowl Sunday.

From the January 30 edition:

Fresh or frozen, all Indian...Janet Rausa Fuller reports that the Patel Brothers Grocery on Devon Avenue is ". . . getting a major face-lift, American supermarket-style."

McDonald's takes wraps off snack options...Business Reporter Cheryl V. Jackson reports on McDonalds' plans to roll-out an expansion of its chicken snack wrap line.

From the January 29 edition:

Wicker Park to get first organic pizzeria...Janet Rausa Fuller previews Crust, an organic pizzeria slated to open in February in Wicker Park.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Label overload - sorting through what's on the shelves...food editor Deborah Pankey previews an upcoming, proprietary food-labeling designation.

He's up to the challenge of hosting other chefs...Leah A. Zeldes interviews and profiles Noah Bekofsky, executive chef of Aria in the Fairmont Chicago hotel, who will help stage the "10th annual Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Grand Chefs Gala, Journey to Shangri-La on Friday."

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

This week's focus is on 'recent' openings. Mike Sula reviews Smoque, Kathie Bergquist reviews Chalkboard and Kate Schmidt reviews Quince. Also provided is a list of about a dozen and half other new spots.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby confirm the rumors we've all been hearing for months: Robuchon is coming to Chicago. There's no word yet on the location.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

February 7, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Dark Attraction...Bill Daley profiles the shrinking but still strong Chicago chocolate scene. And in this related piece, Mr. Daley reports on a few products which are sure to ". . . boost your choco-IQ": Chocolate for the taking--and the making.

Daikon...Bill Daley files this useful guide.

Secrets of seduction...proving that he's truly a man of many hats, Bill Daley reports on the most popular wine choices for Valentine's Day.

Chocolate from cover to cover...Renee Enna reviews The Essence of Chocolate: Recipes for Baking and Cooking with Fine Chocolate, by John Scharffenberger and Robert Steinberg.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

A week of love...with Valentine's Day right around the corner, Sandy Thorn Clark explores the link between certain foods and romance.

Mighty man...Denise I. O'Neal reports that Shaquille O'Neal has hit the retail market with a new beverage designed to help curb obesity in children.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Eat cake like a king while helping hurricane victims...food editor Deborah Pankey reports on how you can stuff your face with King Cake and aid victims of hurricanes Katrina and Rita at the same time.

'You have to love the food and the people'...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles Giacomo "Jack" Zito, chef/owner of Giacomo's Ristorante Italiano in Des Plaines.

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

Dinner With the Fish Guy...David Hammond visits with The Fish Guy, aka Bill Dugan, and profiles his restaurant: Wellfleet at the Fish Guy Market.

Also provided is a list of 25 restaurants around town where seafood can be had.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby give props to our own moosnsqrl for her stellar food limerick.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

February 14, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Forgotten Thailand...in this special to the Tribune, Robyn Eckhardt of Eating Asia (eatingasia.typepad.com) reveals some secrets of Thailand's northern region of Lanna.

Attention all cooks!...Test Kitchen Director Donna Pierce solicits recipes from readers for the Good Eating section's new feature: "What's Your Dish?"

Pig out!...with the Chinese New Year -- 4705, The Year of the Pig -- just around the corner (February 18), Bill Daley takes a look at a "quartet of new Chinese cookbooks to mark the new year."

Hail to the chef...in this special to the Tribune, Chris McNamara visits with former White House chef Walter Scheib, who shares stories of his days cooking for Presidents Clinton and Bush. Chef Scheib will be in town this Friday to promote his first book, White House Chef: Eleven Years, Two Presidents, One Kitchen.

Monkey business with a sweet bottom line...Susan Taylor visits the Banana Bakery in west suburban Westchester.

Galangal...Joe Gray files this useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Super markets...Leah A. Zeldes goes back to her Niles past and provides a detailed overview of the town's "plethora of ethnic grocers." And in this companion piece, Ms. Zeldes provides a 'super' useful list: Food stores of Niles.

A really Fat Tuesday...Denise I. O'Neal reports on what Heaven on Seven will be doing to celebrate Mardi Gras this year.

Not ready yet?...Sandy Thorn Clark provides a list of last-minute Valentine's Day gift ideas.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

These recipes can really heat things up for cooking couples...food editor Deborah Pankey files a brief review of InterCourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook, by Martha Hopkins and Randall Lockridge.

Married couple share their love of food, cooking...in this week's Chef du Jour installment, the ubiquitous Leah A. Zeldes profiles chefs Mary and Christopher Spagnola of Emilio's Sunflower Bistro in LaGrange.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

Nicholas Day reviews the much anticipated Aigre Doux Restaurant & Bakery. Also provided is a list of 18 romantic spots that are recommended for Valentine's Day.

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In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that NY's notable Brasserie Ruhlmann will spawn a Chicago outpost -- with the help of the Japonais team -- in the old Montgomery Ward building, probably sometime late this summer.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

February 21, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

Pizza perfect...Bill Daley reports on the growing popularity of thin-crust pizza in Chicago and explains that making it home is quite doable.

Pepino...Joe Gray provides an informative guide in this week's Fresh Finds installment.

Netting the right wine for seafood...Bill Daley lays out the details. Recommendations from several Chicago-area sommeliers are included.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Original fusion: Filipino cuisine...Janet Rausa Fuller visits with Jennifer Aranas whose new cookbook, The Filipino-American Kitchen, encompasses much of what she learned cooking alongside her mother. Also provided is guide for finding ingredients locally and a guide to some of the most common ingredients used in Filipino cooking: Getting to know ingredients.

Pucker up...Denise I. O'Neal previews Mon Ami Gabi's third annual Lemon Festival, which begins on Thursday.

Tastings around town...Celeste Busk previews upcoming events at the Signature Room, Scoozi, Mas and Zocalo.

From the February 19 edition:

Rumor has city drooling...Janet Rausa Fuller reports that legendary chef Alain Ducasse appears to be scouting locations for a new restaurant in Chicago.

From the February 17 edition:

Hot dog joint hit with foie gras fine...Lisa Donovan and Janet Rausa Fuller report on the recent bust at Hot Doug's.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Before you buy fish, make sure it's the right bite...as Lent begins, food editor Deborah Pankey emphasizes the importance of choosing fish in an environmentally responsible way.

Milwaukee chef always on the lookout for fresh ideas...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Mike Michaelson profiles chef Bob Millhoff of Yanni's in Milwaukee, WI.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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From the February 16 edition of the Chicago Reader's Restaurants section:

Kristina Meyer takes a look at Breakfast Around the World via Chicago, as she reviews a few, select ethnic spots where 'the most important meal of the day' can be found. Also provided is a list 26 additional spots in town where breakfast is served.

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In this week's edition of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that Giuseppe Scurato, long-time executive chef at both Boka and Landmark, has left both venues. He and his wife Carolyn Gordon are in the process of opening their own sustainable, "green" restaurant, which is likely to bow in about 8-10 months.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

[ronnie_suburban]

February 28, 2007...

From today's Chicago Tribune - Good Eating section:

A pinch of fame, a pound of fortune...Robin Mather Jenkins takes a look at the intense world that is the competitive cooking circuit.

A Portuguese adventure...Bill Daley demystifies the ancient wine tradition of Portugal. Tasting notes are included.

Lost in the land of plenty...Janet Helm explores the paradox of poor nutrition and "widening wastelines" in the U.S.

Brasserie des Rocs Triple Imperiale...Good Eating's Beer of the Month installment, which is normally filed by Jerald O'Kennard. This installment carries no by-line.

Braise away the winter blues...in this week's Prep School installment, James P. DeWan instructs us on braising braciola.

Mustard greens...Donna Pierce files this useful guide.

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From today's Chicago Sun Times - Food section:

Plucky 'Papa'...Leah A. Zeldes profiles Papa Lena's Healthy Foods, which is run by married couple Marie and Danny Lena, who together, are embarking on their second careers. This companion piece, The Lenas' dos and don'ts for starting a business, conveys some additional advice from the Lenas. And some of the Lenas' sweeter offerings are profiled here: 'Mama' Lena's cake creations.

Muhammad Ali enters health food ring...Denise I. O'Neal reports on the new line of healthful offerings from the 'greatest of all time.'

A passion for pasta...food editor Sue Ontiveros reveals her passion for pasta and Providence, RI, which were inspired by On Top of Spaghetti by Johanne Killeen and George Germon of the famed Al Forno restaurant in Providence.

Tastings around town...upcoming events at Carlucci and Courtright's are previewed.

Achatz to enjoy role in Steppenwolf series...This Sunday's appearance at Steppenwolf Theater by Alinea chef/owner Grant Achatz and Michael Ruhlman is previewed.

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From today's Daily Herald - Food section:

Munch on this: 'Healthy' and 'chip' in the same bite...food editor Deborah Pankey discovers a new, healthy snack food that her youngling also happens to find delicious.

He combines different cultures into one cuisine...in this week's installment of Chef du Jour, Melissa Allen profiles chef Bill Kim of Le Lan.

Food and wine classes...a comprehensive listing of upcoming area food events, tastings and classes; broken out by day.

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

The focus is again on what's new with brief reviews of Tepatulco, The Brown Sack and Icosium Kafe. A round-up of several other, newer spots -- some of which have been covered previously -- is also provided.

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In this week's installment of Chicago Magazine's Dish, Penny Pollack and Jeff Ruby report that chef Emmanuel Nony, a veteran of several Hyatt-owned restaurants (including NoMi), will open his own contemporary American spot, Sepia, this summer.

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=R=

<><><><><>

Media Digest Notes...

Updates from some Chicago media outlets, which do not 'go to press' on Wednesday mornings, will be edited into each week's post as they become available.

Please do not reply on this thread. For discussion of any stories which are linked here, please feel free to start a new thread or contact the forum host or digester who will be happy to do it for you.

<><><><><>

This is my final week of compiling the Media Digest here. It's been a pleasure!