Tracie Bedell
Do Yourself a Favor and Head to Logan Square’s Boiler Room
Logan Square’s Boiler Room set up shop in 2006 and remains a neighborhood “hidden gem.” Honestly, I’d prefer that it not be so hidden, so I’m encouraging you to drop […]
The Charcuterie Chronicles: Fresh Polish Sausage
This is the first installment in an every-so-often series where I take on the challenges of charcuterie which, according to Larousse Gastronomique (1961), is “The art of preparing various meats, […]
Learn Something While Drinking on These Chicago Beverage Tours
I love seeing how food and beverages are made. Sadly, the M&M Mars facility on Oak Park Avenue is locked up tighter than Willy Wonka’s and the Vienna Beef factory […]
Chopping Block’s Pasta Bootcamp Cured My “Pastaversion”
I consider myself to be competent in a kitchen, but if you want to unsettle me quickly, just ask me to make you some homemade pasta. I’ve long considered pasta […]
The Best Korean Food You’ll Ever Enjoy While Wearing Standard-Issue Pajamas
Back in January, I decided that 2016 was the year I said “yes” to opportunity and didn’t even bother to qualify it by adding “within reason.” That’s how I found […]
The Laser Comedy Show Reviewed
I like lasers and I like comedy. When I gave my 6-year-old son, Pudge, the opportunity to pick a show for us to see together, he was quick to select […]
Magnificent Mile Chocolate Tour
Join an expert guide for a walking tour of some of Chicago’s most decadent dessert boutiques and chocolatiers along the Magnificent Mile. You’ll enjoy tastings and specials at each location, […]
What the F@#%CK Is a Firkin?
Basically, it’s the textbook definition of “real ale” — cask-conditioned beer that is unfiltered, unpasteurized, and served without additional nitrogen or carbon dioxide pressure. Intrigued? Join Headquarters Beercade in River […]
Lagunitas Beer Dinner
On Thursday, March 10, the Signature Lounge at the 96th (in the John Hancock) will be serving up a four-course dinner from Executive Chef Cardel Reid paired with five beer selections […]
Waffles and Hip Hop and Huber! Oh My!
On Saturday, March 5, the Empty Bottle and the Waffle Gang present Waffle Fest, a waffle and hip-hop showcase hosted by Awdazcate and featuring the stylings of Jeremiah Jae, 7oddz, […]
Our Picks for Irish Breakfasts and Soda Bread
While I’m not Irish, I do enjoy two things: Irish breakfast and soda bread. So what better way to start off March than by sharing my suggestions on where you […]
WhiskyFest Is Coming to Town
My drinking life has been guided by two principles, both of which have served me well. The first is “Be wary of dairy,” so I’ll pass on the White Russians […]