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Monday, May 23, 2022Lincoln Square Food Pantry Will Reopen In June To Serve More Neighbors Thanks To $200K Grant
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / May 20, 2022 The renovation to upgrade the grocery area and onsite storage will allow more people to come in for food assistance, its executive director said. LINCOLN SQUARE — The Friendship Center food pantry is renovating its Lincoln Square home thanks to a $200,000 grant from NorthShore University Health System. Construction began in April to add a grocery shopping area and other upgrades to the pantry, and the work should be complete by next month,
Thursday, May 19, 2022Where to Drink Cocktails Right Now in Chicago
by Aimee Levitt and Ashok Selvam / Eater Chicago / May, 18, 2022 From fancy lounges to cozy British pubs to sunny patios, there’s a place for every tippler Spring in Chicago is almost always an uncertain thing, but here it is mid-May and it looks like the warm weather may be here to stay. And that means outdoor drinking is now an option. This latest edition of the Eater Chicago cocktail heatmap includes several patios, but also elegant cocktail lounges, cozy sports bars, and welcoming neighborhood
Thursday, May 19, 2022How to Spend $300 at Ponnopozz
by Judy Sutton Taylor / Chicago Magazine / May 18, 2022 Looking for something to lift your spirits? This cheery Ravenswood shop is overflowing with feel-good finds. Adrianne Hawthorne started painting in 2018 as a way to unwind. After selling pieces at a show in her home, the artist — who works remotely as a designer for Google — saw there was a market for her work. She began selling at art fairs, from the backs of trucks — anywhere and everywhere. “But I wanted a space of my own,” she says. “I wanted
Tuesday, May 17, 2022Lincoln Square’s Merz Apothecary Buys KOBO Candle Company, Will Move Production From New York To Chicago
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / May 17, 2022 Merz acquired KOBO Candles and plans to move its manufacturing operations from Saratoga Springs, New York to a warehouse in Avondale, about 2 miles from its Lincoln Square shop. LINCOLN SQUARE — Merz Apothecary will start making hand-poured soy candles and other luxury products as it expands its business with a new production facility in Avondale in August. It’s part of a long held dream Merz’s owners have to not just sell products but to produce
Tuesday, May 17, 2022Exciting New Music & Storytelling Event Series Coming To Artifact Events In Chicago
by A.A. Cristi / Broadway World / May 16, 2022 tory Jam will kick off a new monthly storytelling show at Artifact Events on Wednesday, June 29th at 7:30 PM CDT at 4325 North Ravenswood Avenue in Chicago. This PRIDE celebration show will be the first in a series to take place on the last Wednesday of every month. Story Jam is known for crafted personal stories, excellent musicianship, and bringing energy, social awareness, and diversity to the Chicago storytelling scene. Perfect for music lovers and
Friday, April 22, 2022For Chicagoans looking to shop more sustainably, the options are growing
by Courtney Kueppers / WBEZ Chicago / April 21, 2022 The shelves of a Lincoln Square store are lined with jars of nuts, large jugs of shampoo refills and reusable water bottles, surrounded by art and brightly painted walls. One thing you won’t find much of at Eco & The Flamingo is waste. The store, which opened in May 2020, calls itself “Chicago’s first zero-waste general store,” but despite being first, it’s not the only option — at least not anymore. Co-owners Jackie MacCartie and Bethany Barbouti
Wednesday, April 20, 2022Chicago’s ‘Green Pages’ Offer A Free Guide To Shopping And Living More Sustainably In The City
by Mack Liederman / Block Club Chicago / April 19, 2022 The site, Chicago Environmentalists, features restaurants, florists and other businesses "choosing sustainable practices even though they don’t have to,” the co-founder said. NORTH CENTER — Two friends who met cleaning up trash in North Center’s Clark Park have created a yellow-pages-like guide to help Chicagoans live more sustainably. The online guide, called Chicago Environmentalists, is a directory of local resources where people can shop, eat,
Thursday, April 07, 2022Chicago’s Craft Brewers Make Last-Minute Push For Relief Funds As State Lawmakers Finalize Budget
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / April 6, 2022 “We're trying to hold on and hold the roof up for our businesses, for our employees and for our communities,” one brewery owner said. “I think it’ll take us at least five years before we pay off the debt we’ve taken on.” RAVENSWOOD — Chicago’s craft brewers are asking fans to call their legislators in Springfield and urge them to support a bill that would send assistance to brewpubs, distilleries and other businesses throughout the service
Saturday, April 02, 2022Why Doesn’t Chicago Have More Wine Bars in Bookstores?
by Aimee Levitt / Eater Chicago / April 1, 2022 Few things go together better than a book and a bottle of wine, but Chicagoans are still learning.When Rebecca George decided to open up a bookstore with her sister Kimberly in 2016, she knew a few things for certain. First, it would be, above all, a community space with events nearly every day. Second, it would be in Wicker Park, where George has lived her entire adult life. And third, it would have a cafe that served not just coffee, but wine and whiskey
Monday, March 21, 2022American Blues Theater Will Build Its First Permanent Venue In Lincoln Square
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / March 18, 2022 Scheduled to open in 2023, American Blues’ new home will be the “crown jewel” of the burgeoning North Lincoln Avenue arts district, Ald. Andre Vasquez said. LINCOLN SQUARE — The American Blues Theater plans to start construction on its first permanent home on North Lincoln Avenue later this year. The theater has rented space in various locations for more than 35 years, most recently basing their offices at 4809 N. Ravenswood Ave. and performing
Saturday, March 19, 2022Chicagoans celebrate St. Patrick's Day just like old times
by Anthony Ponce / Fox-32 Chicago / March 17, 2022 CHICAGO - After a two-year pandemic — and with great weather — St. Patrick's Day was like a coming-out party for the City of Chicago on Thursday. At O'Shaughnessy's in Ravenswood, there was no evidence of a pandemic and it felt exactly like St. Patrick's Day in Chicago should feel. Read more and Watch HERE
Wednesday, March 16, 2022LSRCC Statement on 4715 N Western Avenue
On Wednesday, March 16, 2022, Block Club Chicago posted an article regarding the status of the Affordable Housing Development Proposal for 4715 N Western Avenue. In that article it is stated that the Lincoln Square Business Community “would yank support for the project if there were less public parking” than originally proposed. As the Chamber of Commerce for the area we want to ensure that the public knows that this statement is misleading, as our member business community has stated they are open to
Tuesday, March 15, 202270 Chicago Chefs Unite Wednesday for Ukrainian Fundraiser at Navy Pier
by Ashok Selvam / Eater Chicago / March 14, 2022 Chicago Chefs Cook for Ukraine is shaping up to be one of the biggest food events of 2022.One of Chicago’s biggest food events of the year was thrown together in mere weeks to support the Ukrainian victims of the Russian invasion. On Wednesday, March 16, more than 70 chefs will assemble at Navy Pier for a massive fundraiser called Chicago Chefs Cooks for Ukraine. It’s an effort to raise money for World Central Kitchen, the charity led by celebrity chef José
Tuesday, March 08, 2022Market event celebrates businesses owned by women
by Michelle Corless / ABC-7 Chicago / March 8, 2022 CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is celebrating International Women's Day with its first-ever market event. The market will feature pop-up vendors, all put together by local women. Read more and Watch HERE
Sunday, March 06, 2022New Ravenswood Clothing Store Started By Two Friends With A Passion For Vibrant Vintage Style
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / March 4, 2022 Her & Ziba’s owners Elhom Karbassi and Leslie Castromayor, who have Iranian and Filipino backgrounds, bonded selling vintage clothes at local markets and trying to break into a predominately white industry. RAVENSWOOD — The owners of a vintage clothing shop opening in Ravenswood this month spent years selling their wares at markets throughout the city before launching a brick-and-mortar business. Her & Ziba’s, 4919 N. Damen Ave., carries a variety
Sunday, March 06, 2022Best Day Ever: John Green, author of ''The Fault in Our Stars''
by Justin Kaufmann / Axios Chicago / March 4, 2022 Author John Green thought he was done writing books after successfully publishing seven of them, including YA megahits "The Fault in Our Stars" and "Paper Towns.""I started out writing essays for a podcast because I was tired of books and didn't know if I ever wanted to write another one," Green tells Axios. Yes, but: Those essays, which all focus on facets of the human condition, have been collected for his new book, "The Anthropocene Reviewed.""Turtles
Thursday, March 03, 2022Pizza City Fest Will Debut This Summer With an All-Star Lineup
by Aimee Levitt / Eater Chicago / March 1, 2022 Food journalist Steve Dolinsky wants to prove that this city is more than a deep dish punchline. Chicago may not need another summer food festival, but this year it’s getting one anyway, courtesy of Steve Dolinsky, “The Food Guy” on NBC 5 and a pizza expert who has written two books on the subject. The Pizza City Fest will debut on July 23-24 at the Plumber’s Union Hall in the West Loop and will feature 39 different pizza-makers from all over Chicago, plus
Monday, February 28, 2022Don’t Miss the Carrot Pâté at Parkside
by Amy Cavanaugh / Chicago Magazine / February 25, 2022 Chef Justin Kaialoa swapped chicken liver for carrots — and now it’s never leaving the menu. I’ll order chicken liver pâté to slather on toast anytime I see it on a menu, but like seemingly everyone else in this era of healthyish eating, I’m also trying to cut back on animal products where I can. So when I saw carrot pâté on the menu at Parkside, the North Center restaurant from the team behind the delightful L&M Fine Foods, I jumped at it. Topped
Wednesday, February 23, 2022Here are Chicago's James Beard Award semifinalists
by Ally Marotti / Crain's Chicago Business / February 23, 2022 Chicago restaurants and chefs landed 15 nominations for this year's awards. Chicago restaurants and their chefs garnered 15 nominations for the 2022 James Beard Awards, following a tumultuous two years for the industry. The nods were fewer than in years past, when more than two dozen restaurant professionals from the city landed on the semifinalist list. It also follows a year in which many award ceremonies were put on hold or altered in some
Tuesday, February 22, 2022Winter Brew Fest kicks off at Lincoln Square Ravenswood
by ABC-7 Chicago / February 19, 2022 CHICAGO (WLS) -- Grab your coats and bundle up! A first of its kind outdoor winter festival is in Chicago. Winter Brewis happening Saturday, Feb. 19 and Sunday, Feb. 20 from noon to 8:00 p.m. on North Lincoln Avenue between Wilson and Eastwood. The event is dedicated to showcasing Chicago's local breweries and providing attendees an opportunity to explore small businesses and chat with brewers; more than 12 breweries showcasing more than 40 styles of craft brews,
Friday, February 18, 2022Swing Science Hitting Lab Brings High Tech Batting Cages To Lincoln Square
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / February 18, 2022 The lab uses pitching simulators, 3D body movement analysis, bat sensors, high-speed cameras and other high-tech tools for a data-driven approach to help players of all skill levels step up their game. LINCOLN SQUARE — Baseball season may be months away, but players young and old can work on their swing in the meantime with a new indoor “hitting lab” in Lincoln Square. Swing Science Hitting Lab uses pitching simulators, 3D body movement
Thursday, February 17, 2022Lincoln Square’s Winter Brew Event Moves Outside For First Time This Weekend
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / February 16, 2022 Lincoln Square’s Winter Brew Event Moves Outside For First Time This Weekend LINCOLN SQUARE — Lincoln Square’s annual Winter Brew event will be held outside for the first time this weekend. Now in its 10th year, the festival will kick off noon Saturday on Lincoln Avenue between Eastwood and Wilson avenues. Presale tickets cost $5 and are available online. Tickets will cost $7 at the gate. Beers will cost $7-$12. Some of the featured
Tuesday, February 15, 2022Winter Brew fest moves outside for 10th anniversary celebration on Chicago's North Side
by FOX-32 Chicago / February 15, 2022 Rudy Flores, Executive Director of the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, and Jude La Rose, owner of Hop Butcher For the World, preview this weekend's Winter Brew festivities. Watch HERE
Thursday, February 10, 2022Where to Celebrate Chicago Black Restaurant Week
by Meredith Heil / Thrillist / February 7, 202214 days of unbeatable dining deals have splashed down in the Windy City this week thanks to Chicago Black Restaurant Week’s February 6th kick-off. Founded in 2015 by Memphis’ Lauran Smith as a way to spotlight African-American culinary entrepreneurs during Black History Month, the community-oriented event has since spread to cities around the country. The series came to the Chicagoland area in 2016, with numerous registered Black-owned businesses stretching
Thursday, February 10, 2022Ravenswood brewery serves up vegan, vegetarian dishes while helping charity
by ABC-7 Chicago digital team / February 3, 2022 CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago has plenty of breweries, but they all try to bring something different to the taps. Forbidden Root Brewery just opened another location, Cultivate by Forbidden Root, in the Ravenswood neighborhood. It's vegetarian-forward and vegan-friendly. "We are focusing a lot on the vegetarian and vegan side," said Carlos Cruz, executive chef. The brewery also works to support charities in several ways. Merchandise sales support Green City
Thursday, February 10, 2022Anna’s Thai Kitchen Brings Generations Of Family Recipes To Ravenswood
by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / February 2, 2022 Owner Anna Ong said the menu is like a greatest hits of her family’s most popular recipes, which she learned from her mother while growing up. The restaurant is in the former location of Nami Sushi Bar on Montrose. RAVENSWOOD — Anna’s Thai Kitchen has been a long time coming for owner Anna Ong. Ong always has loved to cook and owned a restaurant about 20 years ago, but she closed it to get a degree in accounting. While she was great at her job
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Thursday, February 10, 2022The Most Romantic Restaurants in Chicago
by Aimee Levitt / Eater Chicago / February 1, 2022 20 spots that create a special world for two. Romance is different for everyone. For some of us, it’s a quiet meal at home. For others, it’s a pizza on the couch with the person they love best. White Castle fulfilled an unexpected craving when it introduced its special white tablecloth Valentine’s dinners. But many are still traditionalists: romance is an experience outside the ordinary, either extraordinarily luxurious food, or an extravagant setting
Thursday, February 10, 2022Badabing Wings says don't wing it when it comes to food on Super Bowl Sunday, pre-order
by Fox-32 Chicago / February 6, 2022Whether you're gathering with friends or looking for a place to eat, many people will choose wings on Super Bowl Sunday. Jose Lopez, owner of Badabing Wings, says the restaurant has tons of options for the big game. Watch HERE
Sunday, January 09, 2022Alexander’s Restaurant To Open In Former Jeri’s Grill Space, Bringing Another Family-Owned Diner To North Center Corner
When it opens this spring, the Western Avenue restaurant will be Alexander’s second location and feature the same diner menu as its original Edgewater spot, which has been open since 1960. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / January 7, 2022 NORTH CENTER — The family behind Alexander’s Restaurant will open a new location at the former Jeri’s Grill this spring. Jeri’s was among a dying breed of 24-hour diners throughout Chicago when Frank Di Piero, son of original owner Anice Di Piero, announced
Monday, January 03, 2022The 10 Chicago Restaurants We Loved Most in 2021
by Amanda Topper / Inside Hook / December 24, 2021 As the year winds down, we’re paying tribute to some of our favorite spots that have fought their way to survival throughout the pandemic. Whether completely overhauling their menu at the onset of the pandemic or even opening up during the worst time possible, each restaurant deserves your business (and a ton of credit for making it this far). It’s certainly been no walk in the park, just ask Andrew Barbera, Owner and Front of House Manager of
Wednesday, December 22, 2021Lincoln Square Bakery Requires Proof of Booster Shot for Dine-In Customers
Baker Miller becomes first restaurant in the city to ask for evidence a booster by Aimee Levitt / Eater Chicago / December 20, 2021 With the rise in COVID cases, the arrival of the omicron variant, and no official guidance from the state or the city, Chicago restaurant owners have had to decide on their own how they want to proceed to operate their businesses at the height of the holiday season. Several have already shut down temporarily after employees have either caught or been exposed to the virus,
Monday, December 20, 2021Ravenswood Light Up Nights Return This Weekend With Live Music, Restaurant Specials
Neighbors can enjoy light displays, a public art project, live music, restaurant specials and other holiday activities during the free, three-night event. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / December 17, 2021 RAVENSWOOD — Neighbors have decorated their yards, windows and sidewalks for this weekend’s Ravenswood Light Up Nights event. The free, three-night community light show from the Ravenswood Neighbors Association will go 5-9 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Neighbors can enjoy light displays, a public
Friday, December 17, 2021A Lincoln Square Mom Needed A Family-Friendly Gym With Good Child Care — So She Opened Her Own
After years of planning, owner Adrienne Farrell opened Brush Park Gym earlier this month. It has an activity area for kids so parents with toddlers up to fourth graders can work out in peace. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / December 17, 2021 LINCOLN SQUARE — Adrienne Farrell worked out at big-box gyms before she had her first child in 2013. She went back to those gyms after becoming a mom — but their child care options weren’t ideal, she realized. Soon, Farrell was simply working out at
Thursday, December 16, 2021Rosded Thai Restaurant Closes After More Than 40 Years In Lincoln Square
“We just couldn’t survive anymore,” the daughter of two of Rosded's founders said. "I wish we could stay open, but it’s a sign of the times.” by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / December 15, 2021 LINCOLN SQUARE — Beloved Thai restaurant Rosded has closed, ending more than four decades of family ownership for the small, dine-in eatery in the heart of Lincoln Square. Birdie Sudhichitt, daughter of the original owners, said the financial strain of the pandemic ultimately led to the family’s
Tuesday, November 09, 2021Want to make a fresh and festive Thanksgiving dinner for $40? Here's your menu
This Thanksgiving for four makes the most of seasonal ingredients and supermarket staples by Ashlie D. Stevens / Salon.com / November 7, 2021Last weekend, I stood on the second-floor balcony of Gene's Sausage Shop and Delicatessen, a European-influenced market in Chicago's Lincoln Square, sampling gin while peering into the fray below. It was Saturday afternoon, and the aisles were packed with people and with products — loaves of crusty bread and springy pretzel rolls, tidy rows of neon bottled
Thursday, October 14, 2021Lincoln Square Bakery With a Mission Revamps Space, Expand Hours
by Marissa Nelson / WTTW News / October 11, 2021 Alexis Long has a passion for baking, and the nonprofit Gateway to Learning’s culinary program is helping Long work toward her goal of turning her hobby into a career. “To be a French pastry chef and maybe move up to cakes,” Long said. Gateway provides life skills and workforce training to adults with “intellectual challenges and developmental disabilities.” One of the organization’s sweetest offerings is Dorothy’s Sweet Shoppe, a bakery located at 4925
Tuesday, October 05, 2021Koval Distillery’s Long-Awaited Tasting Room to Open Friday in Ravenswood
The debut concludes a long journey where the distillery began making hand sanitizer at the peak of the pandemic by Naomi Waxman / Eater Chicago / September 30, 2021 When Koval Distillery announced plans in 2017 to build a tasting room to highlight its whiskies, gins, and other spirits, its owners hoped to wrap up the project by the end of 2019. Now — after four years, a zoning change, and a pandemic-induced pivot to hand-sanitizer production — Koval plans to open the long-awaited drinking space on Friday,
Tuesday, October 05, 2021Apple Fest Returns to Chicago This Weekend For Fall Celebration
NBC-5 Chicago / October 2, 2021 Chicago's Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest returns this weekend, complete with a variety of fall activities to kickstart the month of October. The newly expanded festival will showcase apple-inspired items for sale, beers and ciders, caramel apples and apple cider, among other items, according to organizers.Read more HERE
Tuesday, October 05, 2021Lincoln Square Apple Fest brings the finest foods of the season
by Marcella Raymond / WGN-9 Chicago / October 3, 2021 CHICAGO — Donuts, apples and other fall treats are plentiful at this year’s Lincoln Square Apple Fest, offering the tastiest foods for the season. One of the most popular vendors at the event is Dinky Delights, which has held a booth at the festival for years. Richard Drews is there to make a fresh donut right in front of you. Amy’s Candy Bar brings caramel apples to the event, a staple sweet treat for the fall. Homemade apple pie is also available
Wednesday, September 29, 2021Find your favorite Fall goodies at Apple Fest
WGN-9 Chicago / September 29, 2021 Fall has officially arrived and that means it’s time to stock up on your favorite fall goodies – which you can do at this year’s Apple Fest. Kate Merill, owner of Edge of Sweetness, shares her recipe for Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Read more and Watch HERE
Thursday, September 23, 2021Chicago Toy Store Matching Donations to Afghan Refugee Children
NBC-5 Chicago / September 22, 2021 Looking for community help, a Chicago store is accepting and matching new toy donations to Afghan refugee children through the end of September. Timeless Toys in Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood is asking customers for toy donations, which the store says will be delivered to Afghan children in camps across the U.S. “Every day in the store at Timeless Toys, I see the joy a toy can bring a child,” Timeless Toys owner Scott Friedland said. “We are trying to bring some
Wednesday, September 22, 2021Dorothy’s Sweet Shoppe Debuts Upgraded Lincoln Square Storefront, Classrooms
The renovated space on Lincoln Avenue includes kitchen equipment donated by Sophie Evanoff, owner of pastry shop Vanille. by Alex V Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / September 17, 2021 LINCOLN SQUARE — Dorothy’s Sweet Shoppe has overhauled its Lincoln Square space with help from a Chicago-based nonprofit and pastry shop Vanille. The bakery, 4925 N. Lincoln Ave., is run by nonprofit Gateway To Learning, which provides learning opportunities to adults with intellectual challenges and developmental
Wednesday, September 22, 2021Apple Fest Returns To Lincoln Square In October After Skipping A Year Because Of The Pandemic
The festival is expanding to Wilson Avenue and will feature a variety of apple-themed food, drinks and apples from local farms. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / September 20, 2021 LINCOLN SQUARE — Apple Fest returns next month with live music, food, drinks and an expanded footprint. The two-day festival will kick off 9 a.m. Oct. 2 on Lincoln Avenue between Lawrence and Wilson avenues. “Apple Fest is always Chicagoans’ sign that fall is here and to stock up on their favorite fall goodies to
Wednesday, September 22, 2021Apple Fest is returning to Lincoln Square in October
by Emma Krupp / TimeOut Chicago / September 20, 2021 Get your apple fix at this annual two-day celebration of fall. Can't make your way out to the suburbs for the best apple picking near Chicago this season? Don't stress—you can still get your apple fix within city limits at Lincoln Square's annual Apple Fest, which is returning to Lincoln Avenue with an expanded footprint this October after going virtual last year. The two-day, fall-centric festival, now in its 34th year, stretches from Lawrence to
Wednesday, September 15, 2021Best Restaurants for Fall in Chicago
Get cozy at Chicago's best restaurants for Fall dining and drinking by Jacky Runice, Chicago Local Expert / USA Today / September 15, 2021 It's time to reject charcoal lemonade and poké bowls and order anything soaked in smoky whiskey or sticky maple. If a German experience lifts your spirits, The Publican's annual Oktoberfest celebration is your ticket to ride into autumn. In West Town, Funkenhausen's Funktoberfest celebration adds a wunderbar dash of autumn glee. One of the few restaurants left in the
Monday, September 13, 2021Lincoln Square Taproom Opens In Former Huettenbar On Lincoln Avenue
The taproom’s menu includes Oktoberfest brews, ciders and other beers on tap, as well as Malört. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / September 10, 2021 LINCOLN SQUARE — After months of renovations, the former Huettenbar reopened Thursday as the Lincoln Square Taproom. The bar at 4721 N. Lincoln Ave. offers neighbors Märzen-style beers from local breweries, like Maplewood and Old Irving Brewing, just in time for Oktoberfest. Huettenbar closed late last year. Lincoln Square Taproom owner Andrew
Wednesday, September 08, 2021How Chicago’s Robert et Fils Reinvented the French Restaurant
Why do a red-eye when this guy’s right here? by Emily Monaco / Inside Hook / September 3, 2021 When it comes to French food, we thought we’d seen it all. In fact, after years of seeming all but synonymous with fine dining, French restaurants have begun to feel a little … passé. But chef Rob Shaner has still found a way to make French food taste brand new: by going back in time to his own adolescence. In 1994, Shaner’s father was transferred to Paris for work, and the already adventurous teenager set
Thursday, September 02, 2021A Photographer Started Baking in the Pandemic. Now, She and Her Husband Will Open R&A Bread Bakers
A friend gave co-founder Rachel Beltzman sourdough starter last year for her new baking hobby. Now, she's opening a bakery with bagel sandwiches. Click here to read the full article.
Thursday, September 02, 20217 Picnic-Perfect Chicago Shops with Everything You Need
As we approach September, it may seem as if summer in Chicago is winding down, but we’re not done with it yet. One of the best ways to prove it? By packing up a picture-worthy picnic and sprawling out under the sun, luxuriating in the season that we await all year long. Thankfully, our fine city offers plenty of ways to do just that, whether it’s a lazy afternoon at the park or a dynamic evening of twilight tunes (we’re looking at you, Pritzker Pavilion and Ravinia Festival — whose late-summer
Thursday, September 02, 2021Half Acre Invites Neighbors For A Few Final Pours At Lincoln Avenue Taproom
Half Acre will say farewell to its Lincoln Avenue taproom through September before Hop Butcher for the World moves in this fall. Half Acre announced the celebration on social media Tuesday. The 4257 N. Lincoln Ave. taproom will be first come, first served 4-11 p.m., Thursdays through Saturdays starting this week and going until the end of the month. Click here to read the full article on Block Club Chicago.
Thursday, September 02, 2021Where to Throw the Ultimate Bachelorette Party in Chicago
No one wants to oversee organizing the bachelorette party or bridal shower festivities. It’s just too much pressure. Plus, guests expect either an abundance of scantily clad strippers or an over-priced, over-the-top fete that’s typically created for the purpose of Instagram bragging rights. We believe you can do so much better — and not break the bank — which is why we put together this exciting new guide of unique hot spots certain to make your event memorable and enjoyable. They include a midday pita
Monday, August 30, 2021Arami Owner Plans New Bottle Shop Cafe for Lincoln Square
Meanwhile, chef behind Michelin-starred Entente is a new gig by Ashok Selvam / Eater Chicago / August 26, 2021 Restaurant owner Ty Fujimura has been sorting out the future of his venues during the pandemic. Fujimura owns Arami, one of the city’s most respected sushi restaurants. He’s also behind Entente, the Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant that’s been closed for more than a year in River North. Then there’s Small Bar, a divey craft-beer and grill in Logan Square. Fujimura isn’t ready to announce
Tuesday, August 24, 2021Meet Four Balkan Food Newcomers
The cuisine of this European region, which spans from Slovenia to Greece, is trending in the city. by Amy Cavanaugh / Chicago Magazine / August 18, 2021 It’s the year of cevapi. This hearty, comforting sandwich — made with small grilled sausages tucked into somun or lepinja (chewy flatbread) and decked out with onions, kajmak (clotted cream), and ajvar (a robust red pepper–eggplant spread) — has been popping up at a recent crop of new-school Balkan restaurants. You’ll find it all over: from Doma, a
Friday, August 20, 2021Milky Milky Brings Filipino-Inspired Ice Cream — With A Lot Of Ube — To Ravenswood
Small-batch and hand-packed, Milky Milky's half pints were a pandemic project that turned into a beloved brand for Jojo Ybe. by Grace Wong / Block Club Chicago / August 19, 2021 RAVENSWOOD — When Jojo Ybe saw a deal for an ice cream maker in 2019, she snagged it on a whim. Multiple ice cream cookbooks and a commercial machine later, she’s selling small batch, hand-packed ice cream through Milky Milky, bringing flavors inspired by her Filipino background to customers via deliveries, pop-ups and
Thursday, August 19, 2021Ravenswood Shop And Gallery Ponnopozz Moving Across The Street, Reopening In October
“It’s just so much bigger, and it’s going to allow me to host workshops and other events," owner Adrianne Hawthorne said. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / August 18, 2021 RAVENSWOOD — A art gallery, shop and studio is growing into a new location steps away from its original storefront. Ponnopozz will relaunch in October at 4839 N. Damen Ave. The current location at 4824 N. Damen will stay open until Sept. 25 then shift operations across the street. The move will enable owner Adrianne
Wednesday, August 18, 2021Chicago Residents, Business Owners React As Mask Mandate Returns
by Natalie Martinez / NBC-5 Chicago / August 17, 2021 Reaction came fast and furious from across the city of Chicago Tuesday after health officials announced that a mask mandate will once again be imposed in indoor public settings, with business owners and customers now having to make adjustments amid rising coronavirus cases. The new requirement, which will impact bars, restaurants, gyms and other businesses, will officially take effect Friday. All residents 2 years of age and older will be required to
Monday, August 09, 2021Chicago Craft Beer Weekend, July 30-August 1
by Mark McDermott / Chicago Now / July 28, 2021 Catching up on a few items: Tickets are now on sale for Nellie’s Beer Fest, taking place September 11, 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. General Admission is $45, through Ticketweb. Nellie’s (do I still need to say “The former Durty Nellie’s”?) is at 180 N. Smith St., Palatine. Another brewery is headed to the North Suburbs. The Village Board of Arlington Heights has given its approval to Arlington Beer Company to begin work on a brewery downtown, at at 19 N. Hickory
Wednesday, July 28, 2021Free Movies At Ainslie Arts Plaza Start Wednesday In Lincoln Square
The screenings kick off with a showing of "The Karate Kid." The Davis Theatre will sell alcohol and other beverages. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / July 28, 2021 LINCOLN SQUARE — Ainslie Arts Plaza will host a free screening of the the original “Karate Kid” Wednesday as part of a free film series running through September. The film will begin about 30 minutes after sunset at the plaza, 4844 N. Lincoln Ave. Around 7 p.m., staff from the Davis Theater‘s Carbon Arc Bar will begin selling
Thursday, July 08, 2021Parkside Restaurant And Cafe Bringing Oysters, Cocktails And A Focus On Seasonal Foods To North Center This Summer
L&M Fine Foods owner Rebecca Goldfarb tapped Justin Kaialoa, a 2020 Jean Banchet finalist, to head up the kitchen. The restaurant will be in the former Monty Gaels location, 4356 N. Leavitt St. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / July 7, 2021 NORTH CENTER — The owner of L&M Fine Foods will open another restaurant at the former North Center location of Monty Gaels Grill & Tavern. Vaughan Hospitality Group closed Monty Gaels, 4356 N. Leavitt St., in March 2020 due to the pandemic. L&M Fine Foods
Thursday, June 24, 2021Her Whole Life, A North Side Shop Owner Was Told To Avoid The South Side. The Folded Map Project Helped Her Challenge That
The racial justice uprisings of 2020 inspired Adrianne Hawthorne to challenge things she was taught as a child. Now, her North Side shop promotes artists from all over the city, and she's no longer afraid of taking the "wrong" exit. by Tonika Johnson and Maria Krysan / Block Club Chicago / June 23, 2021 As part of The Folded Map Project, Tonika Lewis Johnson and sociologist Maria Krysan interviewed 30 people about how they first confronted — and eventually combatted — harmful narratives about Chicago’s
Thursday, June 24, 2021Lincoln Square Artisan And Makers Market Opens At Ainslie Arts Plaza Saturday
The new market at Ainslie Arts Plaza will happen every other Saturday through Aug. 21. by Alex V. Hernandez / Block Club Chicago / June 23, 2021 LINCOLN SQUARE — A pop-up market is coming to the Ainslie Arts Plaza starting Saturday. The new Artisan and Makers Market organized by the the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce will feature a rotating selection of local artists and makers selling a variety of curated items. The market is open 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. and will run every other Saturday
Tuesday, June 22, 2021No More Capacity Limits At Chicago Businesses
CBS-2 Chicago / June 11, 2021 Businesses are excited to welcome back customers at 100% capacity. Owners at District, a retail store in Ravenswood, are excited to sell their vintage furniture and home accessories in person rather than over Zoom. Watch HERE
Monday, June 21, 2021Pride Month 2021: Edgewater Candle's Pride Flag Candle supports The Trevor Project
by ABC-7 Chicago Digital Team / ABC-7 Chicago / June 20, 2021 CHICAGO (WLS) -- Edgewater Candles has a new candle option for Pride Month. You choose your flag, with more than 40 flags and symbols of gender expressions, sexual orientations and other meanings."This effort of 43 symbols is intended to provide visibility and representation to the people that embrace these flags as their own, as well as educate other people who may not have been aware of the variety in the "+" of LGBTQIA+," said Mark Towns,
Monday, June 21, 2021Bosly’s Backyard allows indoor play space for dogs
by Marcella Raymond / WGN-9 Chicago / June 20, 2021 CHICAGO — If you have a dog but not a backyard, getting adequate play time for your furry friend can be challenging, especially if your dog prefers to play alone. For Orca, Bosly’s Backyard in Ravenswood has been a life-changer, giving open roaming space to dogs who just want to run around. “Orca is very reactive to other dogs, cats and squirrels,” dog owner Nicole Zacarias said. Read more and Watch HERE
Wednesday, June 16, 2021Edgewater Candles’ Mark Towns talks about the power of pride, 43+ different ways to celebrate
WGN Radio 720 / Jun 14, 2021 Mark Towns, co-owner of Edgewater Candles, joins Steve Bertrand on Chicago’s Afternoon News to talk about what Pride Month means to him and their latest product line, the Pride Flag Candle -representing the spectrum of humanity with 43 different flag/symbols of different gender expressions, sexual orientations, and other special meanings. Mark tributes discovering the synth pop duo band Erasure -and learning that the front-man, Andy Bell, was openly gay- to the moment in his
Tuesday, June 08, 2021Begyle knows my style
by Sher / ChicagoNow / June 7, 2021 How is it that I have never been to “Malt Row” until a couple of months ago? I blame this utter lack of knowledge on the city’s massive number of breweries, but hey, I am not complaining. Begyle Brewing has showcased some impeccable stouts lately, which has prompted me to visit twice. My first visit was to try one of the 2021 Imperial Pajamas variants released in March. I chose the Coffee Imperial Oatmeal Stout, and it’s a winner. This well-balanced, flavorful beer is
Wednesday, June 02, 2021The sauces you’ve gotta try: Chicago-style hot dog toppings blended in one bottle
by Louisa Chu / Chicago Tribune / May 28, 2021 If you’ve ever made a Chicago-style hot dog and wondered if anyone has ever blended all the toppings together, then you’re in luck. Why bother stocking up on the iconic toppings at home? You can just warm a poppy seed bun, tuck in a Vienna Beef or vegan hot dog, then top it with a bottled blend of the classics: bright yellow mustard, neon green relish, diced white onion, red tomato wedges, crisp dill pickle, spicy sport peppers and the defining dash of celery
