Mmm Mmm Monday: A Tasty Tour

The only thing about Chicago that might be more intriguing than its architecture is its food. There I said it. I may be an architecture geek at heart, but my rumbly tummy is often in charge. What can I say? The stomach wants what the stomach wants.

So when the fantastic crew at Vimbly offered me the opportunity to use their newly launched Chicago site to pick one of thousands of activities and classes, Chicago Food Planet's Gold Coast & Old Town Food Tour was a no brainer.

I was in heaven! As a hungry Chicago enthusiast I found it to be a great mix of history, architecture and delicious treats. We chowed through seven tastings in three hours and picked up a bit of foodie trivia along the way.



DID YOU KNOW... It wasn't until 1943 that Chicago style pizza was deep dish? Prior to that, pizza in this part of the world was served on a much thinner crust. However, during the depression, Ike Sewell, the owner of pizzeria Uno, and his pizza chef, Rudy Malnati, developed the thicker crust as a more substantial option to feed hungry customers.

Our guide, Jess, was personable, engaging and created a relaxed environment where we could learn a ton while we chowed down. I look forward to giving the Chinatown tour a try next! Who's in?

Chicago makes my goal to live as a tourist in my own town a particularly easy and enjoyable pursuit. I'm excited to discover and explore Vimbly for my next adventure!




I received my Chicago Food Planet Tour at no charge courtesy of Vimbly but all the opinions in this post are 100% mine & 100% true.

Ooh La La, Mon Ami Gabi

One of the best things - and one of the craziest things - about Chicago is the seemingly unending list of fantastic places to eat. It continues to delight me that when I ask friends to share their favorite spot it is often brand new to me!

Today Sara of Project Soirée is sharing one of her favorite spots in the city. After reading this post, my mouth is watering and I've added another spot to the list!

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We all have our "go-to" restaurants in the city and for me Mon Ami Gabi is my favorite place to bring a best friend, first date, my parents or just myself and a good book. Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago (directly across from the Lincoln Park Zoo) this classic French bistro is by far the best in the city. The food is always phenomenal and the ambiance indoors or on the patio keeps me coming back for more.

First they bring this warm, freshly baked baguette to the table, which happens to be my weakness. That crisp crust and warm flaky center of a baguette always wins me over with a glass of sparkling rosé.

The salads and soups are out of this world so don't overlook them and go straight to the entrees. The Farmers Market Tomato Salad with Roquefort blue cheese and lemon vinaigrette is quite amazing. The combination of heirloom tomatoes and creamy blue cheese is perfection. If you visit during the summer months and you're enjoying the cozy patio then you must order the gazpacho soup. I’m obsessed with gazpacho so trust me I’ve tasted my fair share around the city and Mon Ami Gabi takes top honor.

For the entrees I would highly recommend the Trout Amandine served with hericot verts and topped with brown butter and almonds or the Salmon and Leek Quinoa with citron butter. I’m a seafood junkie and these dishes are seriously amazing since the fish is extremely fresh. It's also worth mentioning that their frites are worth ordering as a side because you'll finish them and consider ordering more (they really are that good).

At the end of the night you'll see a dessert menu appear and probably think I'm crazy for suggesting that you order something after everything I've recommended. Do yourself a favor and order the profiteroles filled with vanilla ice cream and topped with double chocolate fudge sauce and you’ll thank me later. Have you make a reservation yet?

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Like what you read? Find more from Sara on her blog, Facebook, or Pinterest.

Taking a Moment to Yourself

Last fall I took a Caffenture and met Jenn Chen for the first time.

In less than a year, she has become one of my favorite people in Chicago. She is encouraging, inspiring and a really fun friend. I'm honored that she agreed to write a guest post for A Foreign Land and of course I'm excited that she chose to incorporate coffee since I consider her to be a genuine expert. 

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I live a pretty solitary lifestyle. Don't get me wrong, I love the company of friends, the experience of new foods, the moments of bonding at an event. I also like my quiet moments of reflection and enjoying my own company. I think in a world of being busy, it's nice to slow down, even for half an hour.

On the weekends, my plans range from brunch to kickball to working. Many people try to cram everything cool into two short days and then end up on Sunday night being exhausted. To me, the weekend is a nice time to relax, catch up with friends, and de-stress my mind. And the best way for easing this stress (for me) is having coffee in a cafe.

Take advantage of the current patio weather and go outside! Bring a book, a crossword, or a sketchbook. Find a café with an open area, chat up the barista, and then dive into your singular activity for any amount of time. Not only are you able to enjoy a beverage that wakes you up, but you also get to work on a creative part of you that might not come out during the week.

So here, I present some moments for you to enjoy in various ways, paired, obviously, with coffee.

1. Coffee and a donut at Heritage Bicycles. Heritage uses Stumptown coffee and Glazed & Infused donuts on the weekends. This one is a very decadent lemon glazed donut. They also have a fantastic patio and those Chicago parking space-turned-hangout areas.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Coffee and a book at Intelligentsia Coffee in Lakeview. Since their reconstruction, this particular location has opted for more tables and chairs, but you can still sit in plastic armchairs on the side or watch passerbys on their patio.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Coffee and granola at Caffé Streets. Their outdoor patio is stellar. You get a place to spread out and watch people go about their mornings. If you arrive before 10 am, you'll probably have the patio to yourself.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Coffee and croissant at Ch'ava Cafe. I can not say enough positive words about Ch'ava. They serve in table-top style. You sit down, wait for your coffee and food, and they bring it out to you. Nearly all their food is made in-house (baked goods are delivered from Beurrage Bakery) and it is honestly one of the best cafe-food menus in the city.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Coffee and fresh flowers at your home (or a cafe). Never underestimate the power of fresh greens. The below was taken at CityGrounds, but you could also grab some cuts from the farmer's market and enjoy floral whiffs while sipping on your coffee.
   
   
   
   
   

It's been a pleasure taking some moments with you. I hope you're able to find some time to enjoy coffee [and its pairing] to yourself this Sunday.

How do you like to start your Sundays?

*************************** Like what you read? Find more from Jenn Chen on her Website, Instagram or Twitter.
 

Olivia Eats (and Bikes) Around Chicago

It's great to see Chicago through another newbie's eyes! Today I'm excited to share a guest post written by my friend Olivia. I'm so grateful she agreed to contribute. Not only does her Instagram directly translate into my never-ending "must eat soon" list, she has planned what sounds like a really fun day of food and activity. I can't wait to put her itinerary to good use once we get back! 

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As a professional dancer and food lover, I have found that the two passions do not necessarily compliment one another. Embarking upon my new "adult" life in Chicago, I have come to the conclusion that it is my duty to make the two work for me. Luckily I have found a third passion, biking.

Okay, now I'm going to start gushing over this awesome city. The new bike share program, Divvy Bikes, is perhaps the best thing to happen to Chicagoans since the recent donut boom. (Ya, I'm talking to you Glazed and Infused.) Biking around the city allows us to "burn a few" in order to enjoy the amazing food this city has to offer, sans guilt. So here it is, a day of eating and biking in Chica-yummmmm.

First step, find the closest Divvy station and rent a bike for 24 hours for just $7. Or better yet, use your own!

By the Addison brown line you will find a cozy little restaurant called Endgrain. I already tempted you with donuts so I feel obligated to get you a donut for breakfast. The new kid on the block is the "doughscuit" a donut biscuit hybrid. Thank me later. Treat yourself to one of these and a coffee for just $5. If you need a little more substance try one of their breakfast sammies on a buttermilk biscuit. If you want something lighter, check out their baked egg dish, complete with squash blossoms and chèvre.

After breakfast hop on your bike and head south. At Damen and Milwaukee you will find yourself in Wicker Park. Here you can spend some time in one trendy shop after another. My personal favorite, Rudy's Roundup, is a kitschy gift shop with vintage flair.

After a three and a half mile bike ride and some shopping you are sure to have worked up an appetite. You can find my favorite salad in the heart of Wicker Park at Antique Taco, a vintage taqueria. The Antique Taco salad is perhaps one of the most well rounded meals I've found; light yet filling. Antique Taco also keeps it seasonal by adding the freshest daily produce. My last Antique Taco salad was crowned with plump strawberries that complimented the bitterness of the kale and rounded out the salty peanuts and cojita cheese. You will not be disappointed. If you are still hungry, get an order of their killer tacos. The beer battered fish are a personal favorite.

The last stop on my foodie tour is downtown. After you are finished in Wicker Park head east. You could spend the rest of your day shopping on Michigan or perhaps take a stroll around Lincoln Park Zoo. Another personal favorite to check out, The Chicago History Museum. The options are endless.

At Clark and Grand, Restaurant Beatrix awaits you. This menu is dripping with fresh ingredients. They have everything from turkey 'neatloaf' to chia seed pudding. Also, for all of you running away from the gluten monster you will find safety at Beatrix. The gluten free options are outstanding, in fact, the entire dessert menu is gluten free. Yes, you heard me. For dinner I suggest the turkey neatloaf. It's like mama's cookin' minus the guilt. Hydrate that bike ridin' bod with one of their fresh squeezed juices. Blueberry basil, anyone?

You've worked hard today, don't you think you deserve a treat? Check out their pastry case that accompanies the coffee bar. Although not everything is gluten free, it is all delicious. I suggest the oatmeal butterscotch cookie. Did I mention it is the size of your face? Perhaps it is one to split...or not.

Hopefully, this can serve as a guide to eating in this wonderful city of food without feeling like a bloated, grumpy tourist. The fresh ingredients so many restaurants use should be celebrated and balanced with an active way of life. So get out there, Chicago, and enjoy.

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Like what you read? Find more from @olive_eats on Instagram and Twitter. 

Mmm Mmm Monday: RL

I have a confession to make. When I heard we had reservations at RL I wasn't all that excited. My thinking was, "With all the fantastic restaurants in Chicago, we're going to eat in a joint attached to a clothing store?" To say I had low expectations of the food would be an understatement.


I haven't been so happy to be dead wrong in a very long time. I guess that just shows I'm still learning about Chicago AND its culinary scene.

Our meal was a delightful surprise. My main course, the Seafood Pappardelle was decadent. It was virtually overflowing with Maine lobster. Meanwhile, two jumbo scallops worked hard to steal the show. But the entire dish was doused in a rich truffle cream sauce {complete with shaved black truffles} that tempted me to lick the plate. Had we not been in such a swanky establishment I might have seriously considered it.

The decor of the restaurant was exactly what one might expect from Ralph Lauren. Rich leather, dark wood, and white table clothes contributed to the very "clubby" feel. An abundance of eclectic art and photography covered every inch of wall space in the intimate dining room. Though there isn't much square footage in RL they take advantage of what they have expertly.

Our waiter, Christopher, was attentive and knowledgeable and had a fantastic sense of humor. He was not only a spectacular server, he kept us laughing and took the edge off what could have easily been a very buttoned-up atmosphere.


The group had several occasions to celebrate that evening and he took note when we mentioned them all. He even remembered them, in chocolate sauce and candles, on our desserts.


I came away from our meal at RL feeling much like I do about Lauren's clothing line. The top notch materials were woven together expertly and presented with a comfortable, upscale, stylish flair - and they had a price tag that reflected their quality. Everyone at the table raved about their starters, entrees and desserts. This fantastic meal kicked off a long weekend with my Mother-in-law and a few of her girlfriends {see the ladies above} and won't soon be forgotten.

When was the last time you were happily surprised by restaurant?

Mmm mmm Monday: The Purple Pig

Our first meal at The Purple Pig included every part of the pig one could feasibly imagine eating - and maybe a few you couldn't. We indulged in pig's ears, roasted bone marrow, pork loin and pig's tail. Nearly every bite was magnificent and definitely worth every minute we had to wait to get a table in the intimate restaurant on Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

Afterward, we faced the typical Chicago dilemma. Do we go back to a restaurant we know we loved or try one of the 500 bajillion other restaurants on our "must try" list?



Last week we decided The Purple Pig was too good to NOT go back.


We stopped in for lunch and this time we opted for some lighter fare...


Well, not EVERYTHING was light.


Just like our first visit, each dish was surprisingly tasty. From the salt cured greek yogurt with rhubarb marmalade and pistachios to the shaved asparagus and arugula salad with crispy bread crumbs we had a magnificent meal.

In the middle of a fork tender bite of pork shoulder, I may have blurted out, "This is my favorite place to eat in Chicago." I understand now that I might have been under a spell conjured by that magical, magical pig. But I think another trip to The Purple Pig (500 N Michigan Ave, Near North Side) in the near future is necessary to confirm or deny the truth of the statement.

Have you ever eaten a crazy part of a pig? If so, what was it?

3 Reasons You Won't See Me in a Bikini Anytime Soon

It might be time for a cleanse.

Last week I had several delicious and incredibly gluttonous culinary experiences that left me feeling both satisfied and bloated.

I try to live life with few regrets and I would never claim to regret ANY of these tasty choices. However, our choices have consequences. And after last week's indulgences, let's just say, a bikini is probably not in my future.

1. The Two-Bagger Sandwich from Lucky's Sandwich Company:


This is the half of the sandwich I didn't eat!

The Two-Bagger is a combination of corned beef and pastrami served with tomatoes, fries and a heaping helping of perfectly sour vinaigrette coleslaw between two pieces of white bread. It was monstrous and it was fantastic. I didn't even consider digging into the second half. BUT for those braver than I, Lucky's has a challenge that was featured on Man Vs. Food. To complete the challenge you must eat three sandwiches like this in an hour! WHAT?!?

2. Harold's Fried Chicken and French Fries


Our meal was served from behind bullet proof glass.

You have to have respect for a restaurant that sticks two pieces of white bread at the bottom of the boat to sop up the grease and sauce. Harold's is an institution for a reason. That was some good fried chicken.

3. The Northside Twist


Please understand, this pretzel box covered my lap.

It was enormous. Served with cheese, mustard and cinnamon icing, the Northside twist at Wrigley Field kept a smile on my face even while the Cardinals were getting their butts kicked. Even with three of us sharing, we only made it through 2/3 of this beast. But thinking of that cinnamon icing is making me wish I had the rest to devour right now.

What gluttonous adventures have you taken lately?

Mmm Mmm Monday: Siena Tavern

It turns out the fresh gnocchi with truffle cream at Siena Tavern is just as decadent as you might have heard. A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of a lady date at cheflebrity Fabio Viviani's Chicago restaurant. Turns out Noreen's company wasn't all I enjoyed that afternoon.

That's the equally decadent Orecchiette with Lamb and Saffron Cream in the background

The restaurant itself is gorgeous. The combination of rich wood, plenty of leather and a spattering of metal accents give the space a distinctly masculine feel. But the neutral color scheme, moss/succulent covered accent wall and warm lighting keep it from feeling like an old boy's club.

Our server (the perfect man-candy for a lady date) was attentive and friendly. But sadly the pacing of our courses was a bit uneven. Our entrees were delivered before we were half finished with our salads and then we waited for a bit for our dessert. Since the restaurant wasn't very full, that was kind of disappointing.


But what about the food?

I'm still dreaming about that gnocchi. It was rich and oh so right. A big thank you to Noreen for suggesting I order it. I was undecided initially because the menu is enormous and kind of awkwardly laid out on a single sheet of paper. Thankfully it is jam packed with enticing options. I started the meal off with a kale Caesar salad that was good but the bread pictured below was beyond outstanding.

But the gnocchi's main competition for the title of "star of the day" was the lemon, olive oil and sea salt gelato. It was seriously good. We ordered several different gelato flavors (we indulged big time) but this one was head and shoulders above the rest. Though the salted caramel was delicious, the lemon was silky and luscious.


If I have one complaint it is that our tab was a bit higher than I might have liked. Of course, we did have 3 courses and I left with a happy, full tummy... I just always feel weird about paying a lot of money for Italian food. I have no explanation for that, except that it's a mental block. All in all the afternoon was a bit uneven but the high points of our afternoon at Siena Tavern (51 W. Kinzie, Near Nth Side) far outweigh any tiny missteps.

Am I the only one who struggles to pay premium prices for Italian food?

X is for XOCO

When we arrived in Chicago we made sure to make a B Line for Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill. Our meal turned out to be the stuff of legends. So imagine my joy when I discovered that XOCO (449 North Clark Street, Near North Side), Bayless' quick serve cafe packs all the punch of its fancier siblings.

When you're tummy is growling and you need a little Mexican goodness, "X" is definitely for XOCO.


XOCO (pronounced SHO-co) will not disappoint.

So far, I've tried the XOCO salad, the Aztec hot chocolate and the churros with chocolate dipping sauce. Honestly, I'm not sure what I consider my favorite. Seems like there wouldn't be a comparison between chocolate and a salad, right? Then you must not have ever tried the XOCO salad. Who dreams about a salad? ME. Especially when the salad involves pork carnitas and avocado-lime dressing. I've come dangerously close to licking the bowl.

XOCO isn't a huge space, so you definitely feel cozy while dining. But the service, price and food is so top notch I don't mind snuggling one single bit.

I had the pleasure of meeting my friend Tammy there for a little get-to-know-you time earlier this month. And if it hadn't been our first time meeting I might have asked for a bite of her torta. I just thought maybe sharing should wait until our second friend date.

Q is for {Chicago} Q

It was not easy figuring out "Q"for my blogging from a to z challenge.

Well, until I heard the "word on the street." There's an actual restaurant called Chicago q. Can you believe my luck?

In Chicago, "Q" is for Chicago q.


After 6 years of time served down south, I know a thing or two about barbecue. My expectations are high.

Chicago q (1160 N Dearborn, Near North Side) did not disappoint. We started our meal with complimentary chips and pickles and enjoyed every bite. Typically I'm not a sweet and sour pickle type of gal, but these were pretty delicious. They were perfectly tart and pleasantly crisp. My ribs were smokey and tender and tasted fantastic with sauce and without. Even more importantly, the portion sizes were so generous I had enough for lunch the next day!


The restaurant's interior is warm and homey with a healthy dose of chic. You're smacked in the face with the tummy-grumbling aroma of smokey goodness from the minute you walk through the front door. This is no sawdust-on-the-floor barbecue joint. Chicago q is a sophisticated smokehouse. It's modern, it's inviting, and it packs a gastronomic punch.

We enjoyed a casual dinner with friends - haaaaaave you met my friend Heather of Smart and Savvy? But I've also heard pretty epic tales of their prix fixe lunch menu. Monday through Friday from 11am until 4pm Chicago q offers a three-course lunch special. It's most definitely on my to do list.

P is for Pizza

In Chicago, deep dish pizza is king.

Or is it?


During our first year here nearly every visitor we had insisted we indulge in some "Chicago Style" deep dish pizza. We happily obliged. Though I was never a fan of super cheesy, calorie laden deliciousness before we moved here, now, I'm a convert. Now I'm the one who suggests deep dish when friends and family come in town.

But you know what I've been surprised to discover? Most Chicago locals don't eat deep dish! I've met more Chicagoans loyal to hand tossed or thin crust pizza than deep dish. True. Story. It surprises the cheese out of me.

Your turn. Name your pizza weakness...

K is for Killer Food

Soooooo, clearly today's "K" is a bit of stretch. Do you forgive me?

If you've been reading A Foreign Land for a while, it shouldn't be a surprise that one of my favorite parts about living in Chicago is all the amazing, delicious food.

This week, the handsome hubby and I had a spectacular, er I mean killer meal at Bavette's Bar and Boeuf.


From the fresh baked bread we were served while we studied the menu to the chocolate cream pie that ended the evening, every bite was memorable.

Bavette's is a classic steak house with an old world feel. It's a dark, romantic dining room and our service was friendly, knowledgeable and appropriately attentive. They were present without being pushy; helpful without being bossy.


The surprise of the night was the smoked trout Caesar salad. It was your classic Caesar with a twist.  The smokey fish was perfectly balanced with a generous dose of citrus brightness. Accented with thin potato crisps rather than the traditional heavy croutons this salad was pretty stinking fantastic.

Our fresh oysters, thick juicy steaks and sinfully, rich dessert (accompanied by french press), made for a killer meal. And I mean Killer with a capital K.

I'm already a member of the Doughnut Vault fan club, so now I'm ready to try the other restaurants in Brendan Sodikoff’s Chicago Empire (Gilt Bar, Au Cheval and Maude's Liquor Bar).

If you're in Chicago have you tried any of these?

If you're not, what's the most "Killer" meal you've had recently?

**I'm not the only one raving about Bavette's -

Check out Nicole's experience at the restaurant over on her blog Cedar and Rush.