Category Archives: Restaurants and Dining
Dining out For Life Chicago April 28th
With such a big heart, Chicago also has a big stomach to fill. So, on Thursday, April 28th, EdgeAlliance will present its 18th annual Dining Out For Life fundraiser to fight HIV/AIDS.
To join us in the fight, dine out at one of Chicago’s participating restaurants and be a part of the solution. With more than 100 participating restaurants in 30 neighborhoods, Dining Out For Life is a true-to-Chicago tradition. Each participating restaurant will donate a heaping portion of their revenue that day to EdgeAlliance and its mission to provide affordable housing and supportive services to people living with HIV/AIDS.
Participating restaurants in Chicago include Atwood Cafe, Peninsula Hotel, Carnivale, Club Lucky, Mia Francesca, Signature Room, South Water Kitchen and More can be found at DiningOutforLife.com
Along with raising funds, Dining Out For Life seeks to raise awareness for the importance of its cause. The Chicago LGBT community is still being affected heavily by HIV/AIDS. Approximately 22,000 people are living with HIV/AIDS in Chicago alone. Last year 76% of all Chicago men who contracted HIV/AIDS were members of the gay community. By participating in Dining Out For Life, supporting the fight against HIV/AIDS has never been so fun! A donation of $10 or more enrolls you in a raffle with five desirable grand prizes, and special menus on the date of the event added with festive décor will make this night truly memorable. Gather your family, friends and co-workers for this city-wide event! Find a participating restaurant in your city at
Dining out for Life.com or join the conversation at Facebook.com/DineOut4Life and Twitter.com/DineOut4Life.
Chicago Restaurant Week February 18-27
For ten days, over 200 restaurants will offer special prix fixe menus starting at $22* for lunch and $33/$44* for dinner. Take this opportunity to discover new dining hot spots and re-visit a few of your favorites.
Participating restaurants may offer Restaurant Week menus for lunch, dinner or both – at their discretion. Please view individual restaurant profiles for menu details .
*Beverages, tax and gratuity are not included
The Finest Prime Steak and Service in Chicago at Flemings
Celebrating 3 years in downtown Chicago is FLEMINGS STEAKHOUSE , 25 East Ohio. (Just 2 blocks from Michigan Ave.) Fleming’s Chicago is an ongoing celebration of exceptional food and wine, featuring the finest prime steak and an award-winning wine list.
Since the first Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar opened in 1998, they have raised the standard of excellence for steakhouses to a whole new level, winning awards all over the country for outstanding food, wine and service.
Who say’s it’s great? Well, not just me.
Distinctions include :
– Special listing recognition in the
Michelin Guide, Chicago, 2011
- Award of Excellence – Wine Spectator, 2008 – 2010
- Award of Excellence – Wine Spectator, July 2008
- Award of Distinction – Wine Enthusiast, 2009
Stylish, contemporary dining is the hallmark of Fleming’s. The finest in prime beef, augmented by a tempting variety of chops, seafood, chicken, generous salads, inventive side orders and indulgent desserts. Their celebrated wine list, known as the Fleming’s 100, boasts some of the finest wines in the world, all available by the glass. I love that! I like to try a few different wines and don’t always want one bottle of one flavor.
There’s no better cure for the winter blues than a bold and flavorful meal, accompanied by a spirited wine AT A GREAT PRICE.
Their Winter Prix Fixe 3 course Menu brings one flavorful course after another to your table, for just $39.95. (per person, plus your drinks). Taste and toast your winter blues away! Available thru March 29th!
Want something lighter than a full meal? The Prime Burger Bar. Experience 5 variations of burger perfection – each one made with the highest quality ingredients and the greatest flavor combinations ever shared on a bun.
SLICED FILET MIGNON BURGER w/ Sautéed Mushrooms, Béarnaise Sauce
JUMBO LUMP CRAB CAKE BURGER w/ Creamy Mustard Sauce
AHI TUNA BURGER w/ Soy Ginger Sauce
PORTOBELLO MUSHROOM BURGER w/Sautéed Spinach, Creamy Goat Cheese
FLEMING’S PRIME BURGER w/Cheddar Cheese, Peppered Bacon
All served with a Mini Wedge and Fleming’s Signature Onion Rings
FLEMINGS was founded on the premise that a steakhouse can be sophisticated yet comfortable and not overpriced.
Fleming’s offers an engaging ambiance (with small and intimate dining rooms) and lively environment, where one can enjoy great food and a broad selection of fine wine, which is further complemented by attentive and knowledgeable service.
They use USDA Prime beef, aged to perfection and hand-cut. The restaurant offers a wide selection of sizes
and cuts, ranging from the smallest number 8-ounce Petite Filet Mignon to the 40- ounce Porterhouse for two guests. All steaks are seared at extremely high
temperatures on gas broilers to seal in the beef’s natural juices and flavors. – and they have amazing seafood and other non-meat selections.
Stop by and check them out!
Best Gay Chicago.com
InsideYourChicago.com
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El Mariachi Unviels New Menu and Promotions
a new menu and
Special Valentines Promotion!
Join El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill on Valentine’s Day weekend!
In addition to their full menu, they have a fantastic 3 course menu for two for $40 Saturday, Sunday and Monday of Valentine’s Day weekend.
On Monday February 14th they will also be serving a complementary chocolate fountain for diners. PLUS, get half price margaritas on Monday!
Established in 1996,
a father and his 2 sons opened a small 10-table restaurant in the Boystown/East Lakeview community.(which is still there!) El Mariachi has gradually grown over the years by following a strict policy of only serving top quality, authentic dishes and Awesome margaritas.
The restaurant steadily grew in popularity with the support of loyal patrons who loved the families recipes of authentic food.
At the newest location, El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill, they offer a much bigger menu, fresh tableside guacamole that is made to order and an extensive selection of over 175 tequilas! (all 100% Blue Agave). This makes it the biggest tequila bar in Chicago!
And the owners pay strict attention to what diners like. Next week, they will unveil their NEW menu. Don’t worry, all of your favorites will still be there. “We keep track of what is the biggest hits on our daily specials,” says Tony, one of the two brothers in charge at the restaurant. “And we took all of those new favorites that customers really liked and added them to the menu.”
Adrian the other brother, prides himself on quality management. “We pride ourselves on selecting quality ingredients and not skimping to save a few pennies, like some restaurants might do. And we watch the restaurant very closely and listen to what the customers tell us for feedback.”
BE THEIR FRIEND/FAN ON FACEBOOK
AND GET THE SPECIAL SCOOP ON PROMOTIONS ONLY FOR THEIR FACEBOOK FANS !
AND CHECK THIS OUT! Go to Restaurant.com and get a deal!
$10 Gift Certificate for $5 or a $25 Gift Certificate for $17.50
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill 3906 N Broadway Ph. 773.549.2932
Mon-Thurs. 5:00pm-11:00, Fri. 5:00pm-12am, Sat. 11:00am-11:00pm, Sun.11:00-10:00pm
El Mariachi Restaurant – Original 3420 N Broadway
Ph. 773.549.7020 open 11-11 daily
Best Gay Chicago.com
Anti-Gay and Pro-Christian CHICK FIL A Opens in Chicago
Chick-fil-a has been reserved
for our right wing suburbs
but they are planning a few
downtown stores now –
first signs are up now downtown.
Over the years, the company’s operators, its WinShape Foundation and the Cathy family have given millions of dollars to a variety of causes and programs, including scholarships that require a pledge to follow Christian values, a string of Christian-based foster homes and groups working to defeat same-sex marriage initiatives.
“If you’re eating Chick-fil-A, you’re eating anti-gay,” one recent headline read. The issue spread into Christian media circles, too.
The company’s Christian culture and its strict hiring practices, which require potential operators to discuss their marital status and civic and church involvement, have attracted controversy before, including a 2002 lawsuit brought by a Muslim restaurant owner in Houston who said he was fired because he did not pray to Jesus with other employees at a training session. The suit was settled.
On a petition posted on the Web site change.org , it asks the company to stop supporting groups perceived as anti-gay, including Focus on the Family, an international nonprofit organization that teamed up with Chick-fil-A a few years ago to give away CDs of its Bible-based “Adventures in Odyssey” radio show with every kid’s meal. As of last weekend, it had 25,000 signatures.
Yes, Chick-fil-A Says, We Explicitly Do Not Like Same-Sex Couples !
Bet Chick-fil-A wishes this month would end. Over the past few weeks, the restaurant chain’s deep ties to the anti-gay movement have been exposed and uncovered by a number of activists, most notably Jeremy Hooper at Good As You. Whether it’s Focus on the Family, the National Organization for Marriage, the Pennsylvania Family Institute, or Exodus International, Chick-fil-A ties run deep.
Of course, the President of Chick-fil-A wants gay people to share no hard feelings. The restaurant will gladly feed homosexuals gobs of chicken sandwiches, after all. But when it comes to marriage, Chick-fil-A believes strongly that same-sex couples just don’t deserve equal rights. W T F?!
Join the Chicago Boycott !
Best Gay Chicago.com
Sweet Miss Givings Mobil Food Trucks
TO MY WAISTLINE!
Sweet Miss Giving’s bakery has entered into the food truck race. Unlike other bakery food trucks that only sell cupcakes, Sweet Miss Giving’s offers breakfast options such as scones and muffins and sweet treats including brownies, cookies…and of course cupcakes!.
The oversized white van will stand out on Chicago’s city streets and bring a smile because of its original artwork by some of Chicago House’s youngest clients. “We’re so excited about today’s food truck launch and extending the Sweet Miss Giving’s brand beyond catering and our stand at the French Market,” says Rev. Stan Sloan founder of Sweet Miss Giving’s and chief executive officer for Chicago House.
Bakery lovers can follow Sweet Miss Giving’s on Twitter at @SMGFoodTruck to find the latest truck whereabouts or give a location suggestion. The truck travels around Chicago from 7:15 a.m.- 9:45 a.m. for the breakfast shift and restocks for the afternoon sugar rush between 10:45 a.m. – 3 p.m. – or whenever they sell out!
Call 312-575-0212 to place your order or visit Sweet Miss Givings to purchase online.
Red Dress Party Cocktail Event at Kit Kat January 17th
In just about 12 weeks, the newest, hottest Chicago benefit comes to town! April 16th, 2011, The Red Dress Party (a national event) is dedicated to creating awareness and visibility for the HIV/AIDS movement and raising funds for organizations that provide vital community services. The Chicago version will happen at a cool venue to be announced in the coming weeks!
On Monday, January 17th, JOIN US at KIT KAT LOUNGE for an EVENING OF RED! as we celebrate with a kick-off party 6-9pm.
50% OFF all drinks, martinis and food! Wear something red and get your first drink FREE. Also purchase your raffle tickets for a chance to win an amazing Effen Vodka basket, a Veuve clicqot basket, tickets to the Chicago Red Dress Party and more.
Join the Facebook page! See you there!
Best Gay Chicago.com
Restaurant Deals and Discounts All Over Chicago
We just found the newest
Restaurant Discount Club!
It’s called VILLAGE VINES .
“VillageVines gives food lovers access to preferred pricing with their city’s most popular restaurants. We make your dining experiences more convenient and more affordable, and we do so by partnering with the best dining establishments – from the restaurant icons to the up and coming gems.”
Here’s how it works:
- Each day we highlight a handful of restaurants from among our carefully curated list of the best spots in your city
- You choose where to dine and use us to make your party’s reservation before the offer expires
- You pay $10 to secure your exclusive pricing (typically 30% off your party’s entire bill – food and drink!)
- Your discount is applied to your bill at meal’s end – no coupons, no phone calls and no hassles!
How cool is that?
Check out Village Vines today !
Crew Bar + Grill’s 5th Annual Charity Chili Contest January 29th
The annual chili contest lets patrons sample ten different chili recipes for a $10.00 donation to the Edgewater based non-profit, Care for Real . Organized by the Edgewater Community Council, Care for Real is a volunteer operated food pantry and social services group supported by donations from the community.
Wayne Johnson won the NBC Today Show’s “Domestic Diva” contest in 2004 and has since gone on to become a regular contributor to Chicago’s NBC affiliate with his weekly “Wayne’s Weekend” segments, a mix of home and lifestyle tips and events in the Chicago area.
This year will mark Wayne Johnson’s first as celebrity guest host of the Charity Chili Contest. “We are overjoyed to have Wayne, a true Chicago original, as host for the event this year,” Steve Milford, co-owner of Crew Bar + Grill, said, “ but more importantly, we hope to raise even more money for Care For Real this year than we did last year.” Crew’s 2009 Charity Chili Contest raised over $400 and the 2010 Contest raised more than $500. “I’d really like to see us top that by another hundred this year and keep the trend going. In these tough economic times, we’d like to raise as much as possible for Care for Real. So they can continue doing all their good work.”
Patrons are encouraged to enter their recipes for the Chili Contest as soon as possible. Only ten entrants will be allowed, and prizes will be awarded for the best chili recipe, $100 in cash, and the category for best presentation of your chili, the “Christopher Lowell award”, which nets a $50 Crew gift card. “Aside from the great food, I look forward to the clever ways contestants dress up their chili. In years past, we’ve had a tailgate party theme, space odyssey, cosmic chili, and last year’s winner the 60’s inspired Mad Men housewives, who served their chili in martini glasses. Our contestants get really creative with it,” Brian Wells, Crew Bar + Grill co-owner, had to say of the contest’s best presentation award.
Crew Bar + Grill, located at Broadway and Lawrence, is Chicago’s premiere, award winning gay sports bar. In 2010, Mike Sullivan and Mark Robertson joined the business as co-owners alongside Steve Milford and Brian Wells. Now well into its sixth year, Crew has become a fixture of the Uptown entertainment district with a mix of big games on over 20 HD, flat screen televisions and great food and drinks.
Crew Bar + Grill 4804 N Broadway
Best Gay Chicago.com
Red Dress Brunch at Cocktail Sunday December 12
is a national event dedicated to creating awareness and visibility for the HIV/AIDS movement and raising funds for organizations that provide vital community services.
The CHICAGO RED DRESS PARTY
will take place April 16th, 2011.
This Sunday, December 12th, join Best Gay Chicago.com as we help kick off a series of mini pre-parties and benefits! RED DRESSS BRUNCH takes place this Sunday at Cocktail, 3359 N. Halsted, from 12-3pm.
Come join us for brunch! Dine out and drink and help a great cause!
“Raise Your Glass” to end HIV/AIDS. Enjoy some fantastic brunch and drink specials will be – $1 Cocktails, $2 Mimosas and $3 Raspberry Long Islands.
20% of proceeds will be donated to Chicago Red Dress Party which supports AIDS Foundations of Chicago and Equality Project.
Join us on Facebook
Best Gay Chicago.com
Best New Brunch in Boystown – EVERYDAY at Cocktail
Dreamsicles, go-go gods and
$1 drinks on Sundays,
now Cocktail is becoming known
for the best DAILY Brunch in Boystown.
This is NOT bar food, mind you. It’s American Seasonal, good quality foods and flavors. The menu serves brunch, bites, salads and sandwiches daily, everyday, 11am-10pm, with Brunch everyday 11am-4pm.
Erin Baker, their food director says,”I really wanted to stay away from typical bar food and fried foods. I insisted we do not have a fryer in the kitchen! Instead things are baked, roasted, toasted and grilled. One of our cooks makes an amazing Southern Fried Chicken, that is NOT fried!”
While the menu stays basically the same, the preparations will vary. For instance Eggs Benedict will frequently change as does the Waffle stylings.
Owner Geno Zaharakis says “I love to cook! And I found this recipe years ago in a NorthShore Cookbook. And over the years have tinkered and played with it. People LOVE IT!”
And he added, “While the menu stays basically the same, we make changes on some of the preparations and will offer specials. Last week we did a Southern flare theme with corn bread, grits and collard greens and people loved it.
And in the coming months, they are launching a lot of theme brunches and special events. And of course, next April, the outdoor patio will return. But we have also been booking a lot of special parties in the new back bar. And Erin helps work on special menu’s for the guests.”
Sunday December 5th, hostess Phyllis launches
First Sundays Brunch
Sunday December 12th, Red Dress Party Chicago hosts
a launch party for their upcoming April 2011 event.
Sunday December 19th, is the Howard Brown Benefit Brunch. $25 prix fixe brunch with proceeds going to Howard Brown.
(also on Monday December 6th – Cocktail will donate all the proceeds , all day to Howard Brown! PLUS get HALF-OFF that day!!)
In January, longtime favorite bartender Val will kick off Opera Brunches on January 9th and Geno said he is planning on Gospel Brunches, the third Sunday of each month, starting in January. Even though all of these brunch special events take place on Sundays, I just love the fact they have brunch available EVERY DAY of the week!
Most of the food items run $7-$12. So it’s very affordable and the portions are nice.
Insider tips!
-On Tuesdays check out their $2 TACOS!
-If you catch Mark on duty, you have to try his Special Pomegranite and Champagne drink!
-The Artichoke Terrine dip makes a great snack anytime!
View the whole menu online . Take out is available.
Cocktail is located 3359 N. Halsted Street at the corner of Halsted and Roscoe
773-477-1420
Best Gay Chicago
One of the Best Brunches in Boystown Chicago – with Live Entertainment
Where else can you have
Brunch on a Sunday afternoon in
Chicago AND get treated to
live vocal stylings and
top-notch entertainment?!
The Madam X Brunch on Sundays at KIT KAT LOUNGE will WOW YOU! Often voted Best Martini Bar in Chicago and Best Entertainment, the creative team behind the Kit Kat Lounge re-launched their Sunday Brunch earlier this year, with the help of Kit Kat veteran Madam X.
“We used to do brunch a long time ago and stopped. But this past summer, Edward and Ramesh decided to bring brunch back and I host every Sunday! It’s a DIVA-LICIOUS Brunch, Sundays 11am-3pm. !”
You can choose the 2-course $25 gourmet brunch which includes free flowing Bloody Marys and Mimosa’s or Select a delicious Big Brunch item and get unlimited Bloody Marys or Mimosa’s for just $10 more. PLUS, martini’s are half-off.
Everything here is BIG – so come hungry! Big Fat Greek Wedding ($12) is an Omelette with feta cheese, spinach and grilled chicken. Big Daddy ($12) is Eggs Florentine topped with smoked ham and a spicy bernaise sauce. My favorite is BIG BUSINESS! ($18) Butter poached Maine Lobster with fresh avocado and Applewood smoked bacon! YUM! See the whole menu online .
YOUR HOSTESS Madam X is a critically acclaimed entertainer based in Chicago and has been a Kit Kat Diva since 2000. Known for her dazzling costumes, she has graced numerous entertainment venues showcasing her live vocal stylings of past and present female icons with her own special twist.
“I was 6 years old when I first sang in public.” says Madam X. “I was born in the Philippines and performed in a church full of Methodists! I ended up moving to Iowa and went to school there. During college, I came to Chicago and studied the city, for one of my classes. I always liked it here, but never thought I would end up living here.”
“I love it here. I love Chicago and I love the Kit Kat Lounge. We are a family here. I support them and they support me, and all that I do! I am so excited to be hosting the Diva-Licious Brunch again!”
For HALLOWEEN , Sunday October 31st, Madam X and the Kit Kat Lounge serve up a special Rocky Horror Brunch from 11am-3pm!
Kit Kat Lounge 3700 N. Halsted Chicago 773-525-1111
D.S. Tequila Company – A Tex-and-Mex bar and eatery from the owners of Minibar, in Boystown Chicago
D.S. Tequila Company is the home of D.S. Company brand tequila. This flagship store-resturant-bar in Chicago at 3352 N. Halsted, is the first location of its kind to incorporate retail tequila with a full dining and party experience.
Delicious burgers, tacos and D.S. Company tequilas are the real deal. The burgers are made with a half pound of Allen Bros. 100% Prime Beef. Allen Bros supply other top restaurants like Gene & Georgetti and Lawry’s. Choose from the Classic Burger with applewood smoked bacon, white cheddar and tequila grilled tomotoes or maybe the Buffalo Blue Cheese with jalapeno bacon, blue cheese, guacamole and a special DS Tequila original buffalo tomotoe sauce.
The tortillas are made fresh, by hand, daily in their kitchen. Tasty tacos include Crispy Fried Chicken (for those NOT watching their weight!), Tequila Grilled Shrimp and my favorite, BBQ Pulled Pork. Margaritas are made with 100% Agave Tequila and real lime juice with no added sugars.
There are also some starters worth mentioning. Fresh Guacamole, Loaded Fries, and the knock your socks off XXX Jalapeno Poppers! If you save any room for desert, they offer a S’Mores Sunday and delicious cupcakes like Tres Leches and Ancho Chocolate Brownie. Prices here are reasonable. Burgers are $8.49. Tacos are $2.69.
More about their signature tequila…
D.S. Tequila is serious tequila. Unlike some of the other “premium” tequila producers, their Weber Blue Agave plants are grown for eight years with no artificial accelerants to speed their production. The sugars from blue agave plants that are allowed to develop naturally. This produces a taste so smooth and rich, you won’t believe its tequila.
D.S. Company Tequila should hit store shelves in about 6 months. For the time being, they have selected Don Modesto, their sister brand of tequila, to carry at their retail store/bar & restaurant. Don Modesto grows within the same plantation as D.S. Company tequila. Both products are 100% organic. With a taste profile similar to D.S. Company tequila, Don Modesto is the best representation of their product to carry at D.S. Tequila Company. Read more about their Tequilas online .
M-TH: 5PM-2AM | F: 12PM-2AM | SA: 12PM-3AM | SU: 12PM-3AM ph 773-697-9127 (Call in for take-out)
Cocktail and the gardens Bring More Swank to Boystown and Halsted
The recently rehabbed Cocktail
is the original swanky chill lounge of Halsted in Boystown. It is one of the most inviting bars in Lakeview, appealing to a broad-based clientele that is short on attitude and long on fun.
Its two attractive bars (cocktail & new garden bar) feature chic black crystal chandeliers, gorgeous onyx-lit bar tops (imported from Greece) and a swank sidewalk café, known as the gardens. Cocktail is the perfect place to sip libations, enjoy great food and converse with friends, both old and new. – Plus, new room is great for private parties!
The city dragged their feet in signing off on final approval and permits. So unless we get an Indian Summer, you’ll have to wait to enjoy the gardens @ cocktail…a lush 1,192 square foot sidewalk cafe is a breathtaking addition to the corner of Halsted and Roscoe.
the gardens will be open Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. (weather permitting) until November 1st 2010, and will re-open in the spring of 2011.
The gardens are lined with lush green box hedge, with Jasper Morrison “Air Chair” furnishings from Italy, and plenty of golden shaded seating under the posh cover of our distinctive Vueve Cliquot umbrellas. It feels like a swank New York hotspot!
FOOD, FOOD, FOOD! ALWAYS AVAILABLE!
Cocktail serves up their new menu with all the style you’ve come to expect! The new expansion brings a whole new Cocktail, now serving brunch from 11a-4p daily, and the full menu daily till 10pm.
Erin Baker is the food director and events coordinator. I HIGHLY recommend the Artichoke Terrine! Very Delicious! And for brunch I have tried the Breakfast Tacos and the Benedict. Bot very good. The table next to me was eating BBQ Chicken wrap and gave it high props.
When the lights go down, the scene gets a bit more lively thanks in large part to a stage area that hosts the “Spank Go Go Boys” five nights a week.
Dubbed the “home of house music on Halsted Street”, Cocktail boasts an impressive line-up of resident DJs that includes Michael Serafini, Tracy Tobey, Freddie Bain, Carla Starla, Timmy Loop, DJ Dhanna, Miss Michaela, and Pete Augusta.
Coming soon, Psycho Bitch and Heather Doble. Mixing the latest dance grooves from Chicago and around the world as well as presenting some of the hottest dancers in the city, Cocktail consistently serves up a fun atmosphere with an amazingly diverse crowd.
Whether you want a Pink Pussy or a Salty Dog – this is the spot to check out. Delicious music, go-go boys, and now food!
Cocktail Bar Chicago
The New Pie Hole Pizza Joint is Open for Business on Broadway in Boystown
FINALLY, The Hole is OPEN once again serving up the tastiest sausage, delicious pizza creations and the best 10″ you can find at 2am! The new PIE HOLE PIZZA JOINT is located at 3477 Broadway @ Cornelia just 1 block over from Halsted.
Formerly located at the heart of the Boystown epicenter on Halsted and Roscoe, Pie Hole used to offer contemporary pizza in a charming atmosphere with stunning views of the 7-11 parking lot. Now they offer the same great pizza’a (or create your own) with stunning views of the Treasure Island parking lot on Broadway and Cornelia!
Owner Doug Brandt says, “The original Hole served its purpose: We offered a place to eat for people coming out of bars,” said Brandt. “They would be drunk and belligerent, and it gave them a chance to put something in their stomach and go home a little more safely.”
After looking around in a few other Chicago neighborhoods, Brandt said he decided to keep Pie Hole in Boystown because of the established clientele. But with the decision to open earlier, Brandt hopes to cater more of a dinner rather than a late-night crowd.
While the late-night pizza spot will retain features like its hours, the décor and the specialty pizza-by-the-slice, Brandt said he wasn’t sure if the former late-night clientele will follow. He said the after-hours crowd can be “fickle” and added that their new location is further from the bars on Halsted. Pie Hole’s early morning hours will be experimental at first.
“We’re going to stay open until 3 in the morning. If people come then, we’re going to capture the business,” said Brandt. “If nobody comes, we aren’t going to kill ourselves to stay open so late.”
Pie Hole will still offer pizza by the slice until 3 a.m. It will now also be open for lunch starting at 11 a.m. Pizza prices will remain the same, starting at $3.50. And customers will be able to customize their pizza, select their toppings and watch their slice being cooked.
Diners can also choose from a menu of 15 pizzas like the WHITE PARTY, BUFF CHICK and CHER AND CHER ALIKE. Pizza sticks, Cheese Sticks, Salads and finger-licking Toffee Pie are available as well. And the new location is BYOB friendly.
Brandt said Pie Hole was known for its specialty pizza of the month. Past favorites included the “after-school special” with sausage and marshmallow, and the “Thanksgiving” pizza with turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy.
The same oven, the same dough – but on a recent visit, somehow it even tasted BETTER than before!
Pie Hole Pizza Joint 773-528-8888
Pie Hole on Facebook Pie Hole on Twitter
Alfresco BYOB Rooftop Dining in the Heart of Gay Chicago
THE CENTER ON HALSTED ROOFTOP
is the place to dine alfresco this month!
Enjoy a unique, intimate dining experience created for you by 15 talented youth enrolled in our After School Matters What’s Cookin’ Culinary Arts Program. Led by Chef Abraham Conlon, these burgeoning chefs will present Dining on the Rooftop: two weeks of fantastic three-course al fresco dining every Wednesday and Thursday night from July 21-22 through July 28-29!
Every week will focus on a different cuisine, each featuring an appetizer, main course, and dessert. A non-alcoholic beverage will also be provided. Every menu is vegetarian friendly. Please be sure to note all food allergies and dietary restrictions on the online registration form as to ensure a positive dining experience.
The Dining on the Rooftop series is BYOB.
The rooftop will be opened for seating at 5: 45, and dinner will begin promptly at 6pm. Tickets are $25. RESERVE ONLINE.
Kit Kat Offering the Best Dinner Deal in Boystown on Mondays
KIT KAT LOUNGE in Boystown has long been known for their half-priced drinks on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Then on Wednesdays, they also started offering “buy an entree – get one free!” What an amazing deal!
Now they have went one step further with a Monday Night promotion – 50% off your ENTIRE BILL! That has got to be the best deal in all of CHICAGO! Where else can you enjoy the intimate surroundings of a cool supper club, fine cuisine as well as top notch entertainment, for 50% off?!
Speaking of their top notch entertainment, Kathryn Cole is one of my favorite performers (though it’s hard to choose, really). Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Kathryn worked by day as a professional Hair/makeup artist doing studio, catwalk, film and television projects, and by night as one of Melbourne’s leading “cabaret” showgirls.
Kathryn worked in every major nightclub in her area and toured with the famous “Les Girls” Revue and “Chestnuts International” . She is the authentic “Aussie Barbie”, and has also made many TV and film appearances in her native country.
She left Australia 3 years ago to find love and happiness in Chicago and has recently started her own image consulting company (CHIC Chicago Image Consultants ) . “We will teach you how to create and take an original look to completion while improving your personal style from head to toe that will suit your age, career, personality and lifestyle choices.
Even at home. Your home is your sanctuary, and you should feel at ease and comfortable in your surroundings. CHIC can help transform any interior space through color choices, accents, plants and more.” says Kathryn.
Kathryn is thrilled to be also working at the world famous Kit Kat Lounge and you can check the schedule at Kit Kat online to see when she is performing. You can usually find here there 7-10 nights a month.
She exudes a glamorous beauty and charm a always delivers a show-stopping performance as she impersonates iconic performers and serenades patrons.
On Gay Pride Day, Sunday June 27th,
Kit Kat will open early starting at 11am
Join KIT KAT and Kathryn Cole on FaceBook!
Kit Kat Offering the Best Dinner Deal in Boystown on Mondays
KIT KAT LOUNGE in Boystown has long been known for their half-priced drinks on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Then on Wednesdays, they also started offering “buy an entree – get one free!” What an amazing deal!
Now they have went one step further with a Monday Night promotion – 50% off your ENTIRE BILL! That has got to be the best deal in all of CHICAGO! Where else can you enjoy the intimate surroundings of a cool supper club, fine cuisine as well as top notch entertainment, for 50% off?!
Speaking of their top notch entertainment, Kathryn Cole is one of my favorite performers (though it’s hard to choose, really). Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Kathryn worked by day as a professional Hair/makeup artist doing studio, catwalk, film and television projects, and by night as one of Melbourne’s leading “cabaret” showgirls.
Kathryn worked in every major nightclub in her area and toured with the famous “Les Girls” Revue and “Chestnuts International” . She is the authentic “Aussie Barbie”, and has also made many TV and film appearances in her native country.
She left Australia 3 years ago to find love and happiness in Chicago and has recently started her own image consulting company (CHIC Chicago Image Consultants ) . “We will teach you how to create and take an original look to completion while improving your personal style from head to toe that will suit your age, career, personality and lifestyle choices.
Even at home. Your home is your sanctuary, and you should feel at ease and comfortable in your surroundings. CHIC can help transform any interior space through color choices, accents, plants and more.” says Kathryn.
Kathryn is thrilled to be also working at the world famous Kit Kat Lounge and you can check the schedule at Kit Kat online to see when she is performing. You can usually find here there 7-10 nights a month.
She exudes a glamorous beauty and charm a always delivers a show-stopping performance as she impersonates iconic performers and serenades patrons.
On Gay Pride Day, Sunday June 27th,
Kit Kat will open early starting at 11am
Join KIT KAT and Kathryn Cole on FaceBook!
Jacks on Halsted – Boystown Chicago Bistro and Brunch Spot
Jack’s on Halsted,
owned by chef Jack Jones,
was selected as best new restaurant by Chicago Magazine, when they opened. And since then, have won numerous awards and recently reinvented themselves with a fresh new menu.
A contemporary, American restaurant, Jack’s features global cuisine incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and New World making it a true American blend.
For the past ten years Jack’s has been serving distinctive, skillfully prepared, high quality food for all to enjoy. “We strive to use only the finest and freshest ingredients available. We are passionate about two things, serving healthful, excellent food and being sensible about our prices. Jack’s on Halsted is commited to offering the best food value possible.” – says Chef Jack Jones , who has worked at some of Chicago’s finest dining establishments including Yoshi’s Café, Printer’s Row, Terczak’s and Spiaggia.
Located in Boystown on the corner of Halsted and Belmont in Lakeview, Jack’s is in the most diverse and exciting neighborhood in all of Chicago. With Blue Man Theater just steps away and some of Chicago’s most unique shops, not to mention clubs, bars and restaurants, Lakeview is a happening spot. Jack’s is the place to start or end your night out, be sure to ask for a table at the window!
Along with the new menu came some other new improvements. Drew Johnson, a longtime employee of Jack’s, recently became Jack’s business partner and managing partner. The restaurant is now open 7 days for dinner plus a hip Sunday brunch with DJ Gerry and guest bartenders who serve up $2 Mimosas, $3 Bloody Marys and $5 Special Brunch Martinis. Food at brunch ranges from Omletes and Classic Eggs Benedict to Orange Flavored French Toast and Steak and Eggs.
ALSO NEW, a charming patio out back, away from the street noise. Plus, Late Night Food! Wednesday thru Saturday food is now available till 1am. In these economic challenging times Jacks is also offering $6 Martinis everyday, and Tuesdays half-price bottles of wine. There is also a 3-course Dinner menu available for just $25.95 that offers a great selection of starters, entrees and a dessert!
You will find everything from steak to seafood to brugers here in a wide selction of prices. Jones’s “pork tasting” pulls out all the stops by offering a three-way sampling of thyme- and shallot-infused grilled pork tenderloin, smoky Memphis-style pulled pork, and succulent, fall-off-the-bone baby backs. We generally prefer our ribs to put up a fight but the Asian spices and juicy texture more than compensate. Maple-sparked mashed sweet potatoes offer extra allure to this hog triptych!
Pat Bruno, Chicago Sun-Times said,
…The cuisine style at Jack’s on Halsted is essentially contemporary American. However, within the broad interpretation of that style of cooking, there is a definite license to wheel and deal those meals. …(Read full review )
Phil Vettel, Chicago Tribune
…Jack’s is a moderately priced American bistro whose menu presents familiar dishes tweaked with Jones’ personal touch. “It’s like Woody Allen’s second and third movies,” quips Jones. “Different, but the underlying neuroses are the same.” …(Read full review )
We give it our 5 PINK CROWNS!
Follow JACKS on FACEBOOK and keep up with current news, info and specials!
