Food

Review: The Chopping Block

Shopping at the Chopping Block feels like pillaging the kitchen of a well-stocked friend. It’s not just the large working kitchen that sets us at ease, nor the ample counter space used for the shop’s frequent on-site classes. It’s the relaxed atmosphere and inviting white shelves that line the walls...

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Originally published August 2006, Apartment Therapy: The Kitchen  

Tip: Making Vanilla Sugar

Vanilla Sugar

For years I buried leftover vanilla pods in the sugar jar, creating a lightly perfumed vanilla sugar. Incorporating the vanilla directly into the sugar, though, creates a more intense flavor and leaves the sugar looking like a jar of French vanilla bean ice cream. In a pretty jar, it’s also a great gift to have on hand for the hostess of an impromptu summer gathering...

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Originally published August 2006, Apartment Therapy: The Kitchen

Review: Medici Bakery

Ask anyone south of Cermak where to get a jumbo, buttery croissant and odds are they'll point you to the Medici Bakery. From puffy and plain to stuffed-to-the-brim, croissants have been luring South Siders here since this cafe expanded from a small window in the front of the Medici restaurant next door...

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Originally published 2006, Centerstage Chicago

Review: Mundial Cocina Mestiza

Mondial Cocina Mestiza

Mundial Cocina Mestiza is a breath of fresh, Mediterranean air in taqueria-dominated Pilsen. Mundial, which means worldwide, boasts a menu of Mediterranean and Mexican fusion cuisine, such as the roasted corn risotto, made with Arborio rice, roasted corn and poblano peppers, and the mojarra empapelada, a whole baked tilapia stuffed with chorizo, epazote and jalapeno mayo...

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Originally published 2006, Centerstage Chicago

Review: Twisted Lizard

Descending a sky-blue staircase and entering the dim basement dining room of the Twisted Lizard, it's easy to imagine that you've just entered a speakeasy. The window-less room of barstools and high tables is decorated with tiny red and white lights, adding to the hideaway atmosphere; the friendly wait staff and crowded weekend nights will leave you feeling like you're in on some grand secret...

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Originally published 2006, Centerstage Chicago

Review: Bonjour Bakery Cafe

If good things come in small packages, then get yourself to this tiny French eatery fast. With cheerful white walls and bakery cases bursting with delicate, drool-worthy pastries, Bonjour Bakery Cafe is a hidden gem, tucked into a corner spot of a brick courtyard that abuts a supermarket...

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Originally published 2006, Centerstage Chicago

Review: Flourish Bakery Cafe

Inspired by the comfort foods and homemade desserts of his Midwest childhood, owner Dan Fitzgerald opened Flourish Bakery Cafe to recreate some of those same recipes and offer them up to the neighborhood. Luckily for us, Flourish's menu is packed with spot-on sandwiches and delectable treats in a sunny atmosphere awash in pastel pink, green, blue and yellow...

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Originally published 2006, Centerstage Chicago

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