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Hot Plate: Tony Mantuano's Bar Toma Opens Today (10 Things to Know!)

Rebecca Taras — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:30:00 CST

I admit I was a bit bummed when Bistro 110 closed its doors back in August, but after attending a media preview of replacement Bar Toma (110 E. Pearson St., 312-266-3110) yesterday, my sadness evaporated as quickly as the culinary cocktail I was given upon arrival. My only disappointment was that I couldn't keep eating - I was stuffed. While Mantuano touts his latest endeavor to be a "casual neighborhood pizza place," there was certainly a lot of thought put into the concept. Here are 10 things to know before you go:

The 'Za: The wood-burning pizza oven cooks up pies in two minutes flat, resulting in a slightly charred (not burnt) crust. I tried four of the 16, with faves being the Lorenzo (mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, crispy pancetta, fresh basil; $14), clam (littlenecks, garlic, oregano, chilies, pecorinio romano; $16), and the bomba ($15) - which needs further explanation. A pizza "pillow" of sorts, the bomba comes out all puffy and golden, topped with prosciutto and la quercia cheese. The server then cuts the pillow open to release the steam, resulting in a deflated pile of thin dough that you simply tear apart and drizzle with EVOO before going to town. All of the pizza crusts are made from a blend of high gluten bread flour, wheat flour, and a little bit of wheat germ - a concoction that Mantuano says was inspired by an established pizzeria in Rome (though these are not considered Roman-style pies).
Bar Plates: Everything is made with attention to detail, from the orange juice and herb marinated olives stuffed with a bit of orange ($6), to the mortadella with housemade giardinera made from seasonal vegetables ($8), and insalata di mare (cooked to order) tossed in a sambuca vinaigrette ($15). I can't wait to go back and try the grilled marinated lamb and beef skewers.
Roman Style Fritti: Fried to perfection in extra virgin olive oil, one could make a meal off of the little tomato and mozzarella stuffed panzerotti ($6) served in a super cute little wire basket. The Roman-style cod ($15) was not what I expected - but I certainly wasn't disappointed. Not your traditional fish batter, rather a mixture of sesame, poppy, and pumpkin seeds; served with a beer vinegar and lemon caper aioli. Admittedly, I did not go for the sweetbreads with prosciutto and sage ($17), but my dining companions lapped them up.
Mozzarella Bar: Each cheese I tasted was better than the next, but the star of the show was the whole burrata ($27) served wrapped in a poached leek, which Mantuano explained was how the cheese was sold in the old days (today it's sold with a plastic imposter!). The server splits open the cheese and drizzles a little EVOO on top. "The idea is to spoon it right onto the crostino," Mantuano explains.
Salads: Stuffed with carbs, we didn't get into salads, but when I return the Christina (orange supremes, olives, frisee, avocado, smoked garlic, shrimp, hearts of palm, lemon; $18) is on the top of my list. Keep reading for five more reasons to visit.

Tonight's the (Opening) Night: Takashi Yagihashi's Slurping Turtle (What to Eat!)

Rebecca Taras — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:00:00 CST

The temps are only going to get chillier this week, so it's the perfect opportunity to slurp (yes, that's considered proper Japanese etiquette) up a big bowl of ramen at Takashi Yagihashi's Slurping Turtle (116 W. Hubbard St., 312-464-0644) - which opens its doors today!

Designed by Francois Geneve (Takashi, Green Zebra, Quince) the 87-seat space boasts steel and exposed beams creating a contemporary yet comfortable vibe. The menu pays homage to chef Yagihashi's childhood experiences in Japan, and the turtle component symbolizes longevity. After perusing the eats offered, we sure hope Slurping Turtle is here to stay. But the menu isn't just about noodles. Here's a rundown:

Noodles: Starting with the most obvious, there are nine noodle bowls offered ($13-$14) with the option of extra toppings ($1-$3) such as fish cake, pork shoulder, and marinated egg. Standouts include the slurping noodle (rice noodle, wheat-free soy, Napa cabbage, black tiger shrimp, and cilantro) tan tan men (whole-wheat egg noodles, spicy miso, ground pork, and spicy homemade sausage), and shoyu ramen (egg noodle, classic Tokyo-style soy broth, braised pork shoulder, naruto, and bamboo shoots).
Dumplings and Hot Tapas: There are only three dumplings to choose from (steamed pork or shrimp shumai and jumbo gyoza), but one could make a meal of nine small-plate "tapas"-style dishes when not exhibiting a little self-control. One's guaranteed to rack up calories like at a holiday feast. Indulge in small plates such as the duck fat-fried chicken, lobster corn dogs, and crispy curry croquettes.
Sashimi Bar: Carb-loaded noodle bowls are balanced out by the sashimi bar - a Japanese raw bar of sorts. Along with sushi, there are seared, marinated, and other raw preparations such as tartare, ceviche, and various seafood-laden salads.
Bincho Grill: Those who go for a little of this and a little of that will love the fact that the items cooked on the bincho (Japanese-style) grill can be ordered by the piece for just $3 to $12 (the foie gras is priced the highest). There are over 30 items to choose from, ranging from every part of the chicken imaginable (including gizzards), seafood, duck, steak, pork, and vegetarian options.
Sweet Endings: How fun does a green-tea cream puff sound? For those looking for just one bite, there are eight varieties of macaroons with Japanese-inspired fillings like raspberry wasabi, ginger-kumquat, and yuzu. Also intriguing: the Japanese sundae made with chilled red bean, vanilla ice cream, and agar-agar cubes.

Source: Slurping Turtle

Monday Detox: Healthy Eats That Actually Taste Good (Burgers, Mexican, and More!)

Rebecca Taras — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:16:41 CST

From the impromptu office bash to a decadent family gathering, overindulgence is inevitable this time of year. Before getting into full-blown lamp-shade-wearing mode, establish a calorie reserve for cocktail weenies and spiked eggnog with these healthy alternatives to your everyday eats.

Chinese Takeout: A small storefront with little ambience, Peking (129 W. North Ave., 312-951-7207) is best for carryout or delivery. I love this place because it has a diet menu that consists of perfectly steamed veggies (bok choy, broccoli, carrots, water chestnuts, green peppers, peapods) and the option of steamed chicken, shrimp, roast pork, or beef. While that may sound drab, you get your choice of a spicy brown garlic or mild white sauce on the side, so you can control all those extraneous calories and fat without completely eliminating that delish Chinese flavor.
Burger Fix: OK, so you can be really bad at The Counter (666 W. Diversey Pkwy., 773-935-1995) - like, really bad - but you can also find a way to leave without feeling as though you should ring a cowbell and have your picture taken for ground chuck wall of fame (or shame). Thanks to the customizable menu, options abound, but a healthy example could be: half-pound veggie burger in a bowl (sans bun with organic mixed greens); one of 12 cheeses, if you're looking for a little indulgence; veggie- and/or protein-rich toppings (such as cucumbers, sprouts, hard-boiled eggs, and avocado); and your choice of one of 21 sauces (on the side, of course!). For the übercalorie-conscious, check out the nutrition facts on The Counter website.
Mexican Fiesta: While you may have to bypass the sugar-and-calorie-laden margarita (sniff, sniff), you can actually find healthier Mexican fare at Adobo Grill (1610 N. Wells St., 312-266-7999) with options like the adobo chopped salad (romaine with chicken, bacon, corn, tomato, cheese, avocado, beans, and cilantro dressing) and the plato vegetariano (a tasty citrus-marinated vegetable ceviche and chips; a fresh corn and epazote flan with salsa ranchera; baked zucchini stuffed with peppers, chayote, red onions, carrots, cheese, salsa de molcajete; and a corn masa tamal stuffed with stew vegetables; and tomatillo verde) - olé!
Sushi Love: Too much white rice is never a good thing - especially if you eat more than one maki roll (obvi). While Tiparos (1540 N. Clark St., 312-712-9900) is a Thai restaurant, it happens to make some really healthy and delicious sushi! Simply ask for your rolls to be made with brown rice ($1 extra) and tell them to go light/easy on it. It comes out with just enough grains to hold everything together without leaving you in a carb coma.

Source: The Counter

Gift Guide: 5 Pressies For the Foodie in Your Life

Kate Stahl — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 CST

Books are always a go-to gift for me, and when they're packed full of amazing recipes or tidbits from some of my favorite Chicago chefs, all the better. Wrap up one of the four Chicago-centric books shown here with the cutest, ode-to-the-city plate ever, and you'll be sure to be invited back for New Year's.

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Rest Stop: Black Friday Treats to Keep You Fueled Up!

Rebecca Taras — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 09:30:00 CST

While you're out taking advantage of all of those Black Friday sales, don't forget to take some time out to fuel up - and we're not just talking about a coffee break. Take a pit stop at one of these restos offering up a BF incentive that will help you keep more dough in your wallet for all those gifts and indulgences.

So what if you're not rolling around making snow angels anymore? Retreat back the simple days of your childhood at Tribute (800 S. Michigan Ave., 312-957-0000) with spiced hot chocolate and cinnamon twists, or spiked (or not) eggnog and ginger snap cookies for $5 each. If the lines of aggressive shoppers are leaving you fried like your Thanksgiving turkey, opt for the layaway cocktail, a blend of organic goji berry liqueur, prosecco, and grapefruit bitters; $6.
We're pretty sure there would have already been a line at Sprinkles (50 E. Walton St., 312-573-1600) even before the cupcake emporium announced its Black Friday special: buy one get one free! Opt for the orange-cranberry, pumpkin, and salty caramel, as there are only a few days left to enjoy these seasonally delicious flavors!
Black Friday is extended at deca (160 E. Pearson St., 312-573-5160) restaurant's deca den in the Ritz-Carlton, which is open for weary shoppers 2 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and until 6 p.m. on Sunday. Switch holiday gears and enjoy the game along with football fare such as sliders, hot dogs, flat breads, locally brewed beers, and cocktails.

Indulge: 5 Holiday Classes For Foodies and Drinkers (Punch Bowls, Apps, Sweets, and More!)

Rebecca Taras — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:45:00 CST

From Thanksgiving to New Year's, food is a major focus: sweet treats, apps galore, and, of course, the libations. If you're planning on being the hostess with the mostess any time soon, then learn a few tricks of the trade at one of these upcoming classes.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry is the name of the class taking place at the Chopping Block (Merchandise Mart Plaza, Ste. 107 , 312-644-6360) on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Perfect for the gal ready to host a dinner party, you'll learn how to make sausage and herbed cheese stuffed mushrooms, sautéed beef tenderloin, broccoli and cauliflower gratin, and pumpkin donuts with cinnamon sugar for dessert. The cost is $85 per person, which includes two glasses of wine or beer.
Pastry chef and cookbook author Sarah Levy is as sweet as the treats she makes in her shop, Sarah's Pastries & Candies (70 E. Oak St., 312-664-6223; Macy's, 111 N. State St., 312-781-3004). See (and taste) for yourself at Mariano's Fresh Market (333 E. Benton Pl., 312-228-1349) on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m., when she'll demonstrate how to make three sinful holiday desserts: apricot coconut macaroons, chocolate cupcakes with cocoa fudge frosting, and decadent chocolate almond toffee. There's no cost to attend and there's free wine to boot.
Forget holiday shopping. Blow off a weekend afternoon learning how to make a jubilant punch bowl at Cooking Fools (1916 W. North Ave., 773-276-5565) on Sunday, Dec. 11, from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Resident mixologist Angie Jackson and mixologist Lynn House (chief mixologist for Blackbird) will teach you how to make seasonally inspired ice molds and three old-school punches - one of which dates back to 1848! And to keep you from getting tipsy, appetizers will be provided by the chefs at Cooking Fools.
Shaken or stirred, who doesn't love a good martini? Give the ol' 007 a festive makeover at Chen's (3506 N. Clark St., 773-549-9100) holiday martini class on Tuesday, Dec. 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. While noshing on a bevy of hors d'oeuvres, you'll learn how to make five adult beverages including the Christmas martini, the rising suntini, the pomegranatini, the mint chocolate martini, and a "students' choice" martini, which leaves room for creativity - or trial and error. The class is only $20, which is reimbursed to you in the form of a Chen's gift certificate for a future visit (sushi anyone?).
Speaking of our affinity for maki, SushiSamba Rio (504 N. Wells St., 312-595-2300) is hosting a sushi and sake class ($75 per person) also on Tuesday, Dec. 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Who knows? Maybe the flights of sake you'll drink will help you out when you're learning to roll sushi. In addition, you'll pick up some sake food pairing tips while tasting nibbly bites of tempura, edamame, and sashimi.

Source: Chen's

Kate Stahl — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:20:00 CST

The Best Black Wednesday Bashes

Happy Black Wednesday! Whether you're looking for a bar crawl, some adventurous eats (turkey testicles, anyone?), or just a spot to meet up with friends and family, there's a Chicago bar or restaurant (like Barn & Company, shown left) ready to serve you silly. Just remember, Thanksgiving is best enjoyed without a (huge) hangover.

Jam Packed: Celebrated Brunch Spot Reopens Better Than Ever

Rebecca Taras — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 CST

Patrons wept in their malted crusted french toast (with macerated cherries, lime leaf cream, and pink peppercorns no less) when popular brunch spot Jam closed its doors in the Ukrainian Village - but not for long. Jam recently reopened in Logan Square (3057 W. Logan Blvd., 773-292-6011), and suffice it to say, it's jammin'. Now, there are more than two reasons (breakfast and lunch) to check it out. Here's the scoop:

Jam is now open for dinner too! Nightly "blue plate" dinner specials include dishes like meatloaf (with tomato jam), venison stroganoff, and fried Lake Superior white fish. In the works: a Monday degustation menu and midnight brunch (late-night drinking munchies perhaps?).
Despite the menu change, you can still satisfy your egg (from benedict to scotch) and pancake (pumpkin with meringue) craving all day and night.
The master behind the creative menu is chef Jeffrey Mauro, a former alum of Charlie Trotter's and North Pond. Two other brains behind the operation are co-owner Jerry Suqi (Chickpea) and sous chef Mike Noll (Schwa).
Jam is BYOB, meaning it's Bellinis by day, vino by night. Keep an eye out for the homemade Bloody Mary mix and fresh peach puree for your provisions.
It's cash only, so come prepared.
Something to look forward to come Spring: garden seating.

Source: Jam Restaurant

4 New Spots to Spend Black Wednesday

Kate Stahl — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 13:20:00 CST

Before the turkey, before the stuffing, and definitely before that annual family hounding session (sure, you'd like to know when you're going to get married/get a new job/move closer to home, too), you need a drink . . . or a handful of them. Check out these four new spots to get a good one - all memorable enough to make an impression, no matter how many Black Wednesday cocktails you decide to down.

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Hot Plate: Urban Union Opens Next Month!

Rebecca Taras — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:45:00 CST

Taylor Street (aka Little Italy) is known for its Italian flavor thanks to culinary institutions like Rosebud, RoSal's, and Francesca's, but come next month, there will be a new kid on campus that will change the way you think about spaghetti and meatballs. Urban Union (1421 W. Taylor St.) is opening its doors, and we're already saving calories for weekend brunch dishes like wood grilled skirt steak with two eggs, salad of arugula, red wine sauce and roquefort butter. Hungry for more? Here's the scoop:

The concept: Wine bar meets small plates with an emphasis on global flavors. Unlike some of the other restos on the Taylor Street strip, you'll want to hang out for a while and linger over a glass (or two, three) of vino from its extensive wine list - then perhaps order another dish . . . then another . . .
The owners: Chef Michael Shrader (N9NE, Epic) and restaurateur/consultant Jason Chan (Butter) may have 40 years of combined industry experience, but it was their 14-year friendship that served as the driving force behind Urban Union.
The eats: The European-inspired menu is highlighted with dishes coming from the wood burning oven (wood roasted seafood anyone?), while paying homage to the Little Italy hood with handmade pastas like parmigiano-reggiano gnocchi with braised pork belly, caramelized baby turnips, and toasted Sicilian pistachios. There will also be an extensive raw bar, weekend brunch, and a rotating dinner entrée option for those not looking to share.
The chef's table: If there was ever a reason to dine early, it has to be the 10-seat communal chef's table, available on a first-come, first-serve basis only. You'll chow on whatever delicious masterpieces chef Shrader has up his sleeve that day.
The wine: We love that chef Shrader loves wine! Whether you know everything or nothing about the grape, Urban Union is going to be a fun place to sip, slurp, and explore a new (or favorite) vintage - all 150 - from Austria, Germany, France, and more. There will be 50 wines available by the glass (several of which are affordable), three on tap, and an opportunity to expand your palate with rare, reserve wines in a two-ounce dose.
The space: It's all in a name; the 65-seat resto will boast furnishings made from reclaimed Douglas fir trees, 50-year old wide-plank oak floors, industrial lighting fixtures, and chic decor, all designed (by chef Shrader and Chan) with the intention of making the space feel like an urban respite. Unique table configurations include: the 10-seat communal chef's table mentioned above; a table for six in the private dining room (intimate holiday gathering perhaps?), and the butcher block bar.
The visuals: Get a hawk-eye view of the latest raw bar offerings, or a peek into buzzing open-air kitchen where the wood burning oven will no doubt be working over time.