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Novelty Golf has been in Lincolnwood for more than 50 years and (thankfully) it seems to be the exact course it was back then. Basically, it's exactly what the miniature golf experience should be. And at $8 a round, it's quite a deal. In addition to miniature golf, Novelty Golf and Games also has batting cages, video games, and a restaurant. And it only took us about 30 minutes to get there by car from downtown Chicago. Hours: Mon. - Sun., 10am to Midnight Novelty Golf & Games
Novelty Golf & Games, Linconlwood written by Anna Inabinet on September 14, 2007
Heaven on Seven is, after all, one of those places that I keep on hand when company visits, when friends or strangers ask for recommendations of a true Chicago dining experience, or when I want the best Hurricane in town. Boasting the "best Louisiana cookin' outside New Orleans," Heaven on Seven offers a menu full of cajun delights from po' boys to etouffee to red beans and rice. No matter what you choose, be sure to get a cup of their famous gumbo on the side - you won't be sorry. What do I recommend? I'm glad you asked! I love the Cajun Fried Chicken Salad (with a cup of gumbo). Sometimes I'll order the Chicken & Andouille Sausage Quesadillas appetizer as a meal (with a cup of gumbo). Oftentimes, I'll go all out and order a big bowl of gumbo and just dive in with some good crusty bread! My husband always gets a po' boy sandwich (with a cup of gumbo, of course) - there are 12 to choose from! No matter what you order, you can spice it up to your liking with one of the many hot sauces that you'll find hanging out in the middle of your table. Heaven on Seven Heaven on Seven, The Loop & River North written by Anna Inabinet on July 3, 2007
The atmosphere at LuLu's is low-key and casual, but the food is anything but low-key. While perusing the menu, we watched tray after tray of deliciously plated food pass by our table. I finally settled on the Ginger Chicken Salad, which was enormous and proved that salads do not have to be boring. The simple plate of greens, panko breaded chicken, green beans, and a ginger salad dressing was the perfect light (yet filling) dinner. Jeremy chose the Thai Panang Coconut Curry, which featured breaded shrimp atop yellow noodles, with yellow curry and green beans. I snuck a bite and, trust me, it was goooood. LuLu's also has an unexpected selection of red and white wines, as well as sake, teas, and unique desserts. On Monday and Tuesday evenings, as well as Saturday and Sunday mornings, LuLu's offers "Munch a Bunch," which, they say, gives you a chance to sample almost everything on the menu. I'm sure we'll be back for that soon! TIP: LuLu's is just a short walk from the purple line station in Evanston, so even if you don't live there, it's an easy trip for a great meal. LuLu's LuLu's, Evanston written by Anna Inabinet on May 8, 2007
Buddy Guy's plays hosts to artists with various styles of blues music, from local artists to international stars (Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones, and Stevie Ray Vaughan to name a few). I was there with friends a few weeks ago and heard Sharon Lewis, who was spectacular. I went with another group this weekend and saw Nick Moss and the Fliptops, another great band, but with a completely different style. You can't go wrong! So, if you haven't been to Buddy Guy's Legends - get there! And get there soon, because the popular Chicago blues club will be closing at its present location in the next couple of months. Although it will be reopening at a yet-to-be determined location and date, everyone should really experience the legend of Buddy Guy's in it's current historic location. TIP: Buddy Guy's does not take reservations, so I recommend going early and enjoying a yummy cajun dinner before the concert (that way you're sure to have a table when the music starts). Check out the menu on the club's website (below). Also, take some time to look around - the walls are a colorful museum of blues history. Buddy Guy's Legends Buddy Guy's Legends, South Loop written by Anna Inabinet on April 17, 2007
One of my favorite things to do when the weather starts getting nice (nice, yet unpredictable) is to head to the Kane County Flea Market, where over a thousand vendors set up each month to sell their antique, vintage, and sometimes just plain interesting wares. what could be better than getting out of the city and spending the day hunting for treasures to make my small apartment feel a little more unique and like home? My favorite objects to hunt for are serving platters, dishes, glasses, mugs, and all other food and drink-related items. However, you can find anything at the Kane County Flea Market from furniture to fabric to tools and artwork. The Kane County Flea Market, operated at the Kane County Fairgrounds, is open the first weekend of every month (year-round), and it does not close for any reason. Even during the rainy and snowy months you'll find indoor vendors. The hours are Saturday from noon to 5p.m., and Sunday from 7a.m. to 4p.m. Check out their website (link below) to find out more information about selling at the market, and about their annual all night flea market in September.
Kane County Flea Market, St. Charles/Aurora written by Anna Inabinet on April 2, 2007
Looking for an "it" gathering place downtown, with great live music, delicious drinks, and a LOT of people-watching? Then I have just the place for you! The Redhead Piano Bar is upscale and well-known, but at the same time unpretentious. First-timers should not be afraid! The atmosphere at The Redhead Piano Bar is old-Chicago style and class. But, in my opinion, what makes this piano bar unique is that there is a place for everyone. You can gather around the piano to sing-a-long, pull a seat up at the bar for a drink, or find a table further in the back where you can enjoy the music and conversation. Speaking of the music, The Redhead features several regular piano entertainers that set the fun, yet relaxed, tone of this bar. When I go somewhere like this for the first time, I first like to try the bar's signature drink (usually named for the bar). The Redhead is known for its fabulous martini selection, so my first order was The Redhead Martini (Belvedere Orange Vodka, Licor 43, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice) and it did not disappoint. Hard core martini drinkers can opt for the James Bond (vodka - shaken, not stirred). Feeling crazy? Try the "Art Takes Flight" or "Roger's Clockwork Orange" martinis. There is truly something for everyone. TIPS: First, sometimes there's a wait to get in. It's worth the wait, so BE PATIENT!! Second, you have to check your coat when you walk in the bar, but there's no cover charge to get in. And third, dress appropriately or they will not let you in ("appropriate" according to the website is "business casual"). Oh, and it's the perfect place to go after a yummy dinner at Quartino. The Redhead Piano Bar Hours: Sat 7PM-5AM The Redhead Piano Bar, River North written by Anna Inabinet on March 26, 2007
Having just returned from Paris (the city of love, lights, and CREPES), I was happy when I found out that friends chose Icosium Kafe as the location of this month's group breakfast. Specializing in Algerian flavors, Icosium offers a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes. I had the old standby - strawberries and chocolate - and I still think it's the best combination out there. Icosium's version, with fresh berries and Belgian chocolate, did not disappoint. And the coffee flowed hot and strong - the perfect compliment to my sweet breakfast treat. The menu offers plenty of combinations to choose from, but if you don't see what you like, try making up your own crepe. Soups and salads are also included on the menu. Icosium is the sister creperie to the Coffee and Crepe Palace in Lincoln Park (2433 N. Clark), which is equally appetizing. Icosium Kafe Icosium Kafe, Andersonville written by Anna Inabinet on March 19, 2007
The staff is friendly and eager to share their enthusiasm for the unique menu, and readily offer drink and food advice if you're having trouble deciding. What I loved: The Ceviche de Salmon y Callos (salmon and scallop ceviche) appetizer was a fresh and light and the perfect beginning to the meal. From the drink menu, we enjoyed the Granada Mojito (very sweet) and the Caipirinha (simple, but strong, so be advised!). My husband ordered the Truca Amazonas (trout filled with a shrimp mixture), and it was the table favorite. For dessert, try the Pastel Cuatro Leches (sponge cake soaked in a milk sauce). Also note that although our waitress told us the servings were large enough to share, I did not find that to be true for our dishes. Although most dishes were plenty to fill us up, one friend ordered the Costilla Estofada (beer-braised ribs) and I'm pretty sure he was still hungry! We had a reservation and were seated as soon as the complete party arrived. If you get there early, take a seat at the bar, enjoy a drink, and watch the tropical fish in the eight-foot tank behind the bar (look through the tank to see into the kitchen and watch the chefs at work). Cuatro offers live music later in the evening. For a schedule of events and bands, check out their website. Cuatro Call or click here for reservations. Cuatro, South Loop written by Anna Inabinet on February 26, 2007
Eppy's serves everything from salads to sandwiches to bagels, but is famous for its "temperature soup." Thirty degrees outside? Your soup cost 30 cents! Sixty out there? Then, hey, your soup is 60 cents. And it's good soup, too (try the chicken chili)! (I do think Eppys must have been paying customers to eat the soup last week, though... it was that cold!). Just as well-known as its temperature soup, Eppy's owner, Larry Epstein, is known by all patrons for his quirky style. Compared by some to Seinfeld's infamous soup nazi, Epstein is one of the things patrons enjoy most about the deli... but don't take it personally if he gives you a hard time. He's just as likely to laugh and say, "You're the boss" the next time your in there and ask for something off-the-wall. The staff at Eppy's is also known to heckle each other behind the counter. But, here's a little-known fact: Eppy's is staffed with actors from Chicago improv theaters, so maybe we're just getting a sneak peak at the next big thing. My recommendation: Although I occasionally switch it up, I'm a creature of habit and usually order the chicken salad sandwich, which is delicious and doesn't include any crazy ingredients like raisins or nuts that so many restaurants are serving these days. The sandwich comes with your choice of two sides (I love the "sour & salty" chips and the fruit cup) and a drink - all for under $7. Eppys also has free wi-fi, so pull up your computer and read Girls Guide while you're having lunch! TIP: Eppys gives discounts for students, as well as those who live and work in the area (just let them know at check-out which one applies to you). And you might as well grab a "preferred customer" card while you're there because you'll definitely be back (ten stamps and you get a free sandwich or a free bagel and coffee). Eppy's Deli Eppy's Deli, Streeterville written by Anna Inabinet on February 15, 2007
Fox & Obel is not just a specialty food shop, it is also a personal chef and a cozy cafe. On busy (or lazy!) days, you can stop by the store and pick up freshly made entrees and side dishes from the "Gourmet to Go" section. Or pull up a chair in the cafe for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and order from Fox & Obel Cafe's classic menu. Nothing warms up a cold Chicago winter day like a warm grilled cheese sandwich and a cup of soup! If you're hosting a lunch meeting or a special event, check out Fox & Obel's catering menu. Cooking classes and events such as wine tastings and book signings are also offered at Fox & Obel. TIP: Fox & Obel offers free valet parking every day, making it easy to shop there even if it's not in your neighborhood! You can also park in the AMC movie theater parking deck for 90 minutes with validation. We all know how rare, yet awesome, it is to find convenient (not to mention free) parking downtown! Fox & Obel Fox & Obel, Streeterville written by Anna Inabinet on February 1, 2007
Calliope bills itself as a "unique sandwich shop," and they live up to that name with their Fat Bastard Steak Sandwich, Grilled Salmon Sandwhich, and Asian Turkey Burger (not to mention the reasonable prices). Calliope also offers appetizers, soup, and salad. All of their sandwiches, wraps, and grinders are served with their homemade waffle chips (to die for!). My recommendation: although I've never had anything at Calliope that I didn't like, the Grilled Salmon Sandwich and the Italian Grinder are my favorites. TIPS: Unlike many restaurants in the city, Calliope offers free parking in a small lot next to the cafe. Covered outdoor seating is available, and the cafe is BYOB (they do offer a nice selection of soda, water, juices, and other drinks). Calliopes also delivers, and offers catering services. Calliope Cafe Calliope Cafe, Lincoln Park written by Anna Inabinet on January 22, 2007
Sherry Corder, along with her husband Archie, opened the Old Victorian Farmhouse in May 2005. True to its name, the house used to be a dairy farm. Today, it is a haven of comfort and times gone by. Full of antiques and old family pictures, something intriguing caught my eye at every turn. Although the Old Victorian Farmhouse, located in Wauconda, Illinois, is only a short drive from Chicago, you'll feel like you're a million miles away. The B&B is also a short drive from Long Grove Village. What about the bed and the breakfast, you ask? Well, let me tell you! My husband and I stayed in the Secret Garden room, and slept on the most comfortable and luxurious bed I have ever had the pleasure of sleeping on, topped with a featherbed that I would have liked to take home with me, but I could not squeeze it into my suitcase. As for the breakfast, who wouldn't love Creme Brule French toast, eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit, served on beautiful china, crystal, and silver. Every breakfast should be so fancy. And Sherry is more than happy to share her recipes with the guests, so just ask! Sherry is also a great resource for what to do while you're in Wauconda - if you can bring yourself to leave the B&B, that is. Old Victorian Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast Old Victorian Farmhouse, Wauconda, IL written by Anna Inabinet on January 16, 2007
Although Long Grove is only 40 miles from Chicago, I felt we had escaped into a winter wonderland far from home! There are more than 80 shops and restaurants in Long Grove featuring pottery, crafts, specialty foods, home decor items, artwork, jewelry, and other items. Long Grove's shops are open year-round, so a visit would make a fun getaway any time of year. Some of my favorites: The Olive Tap is my favorite shop in Long Grove. This shop features fresh extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars that you can taste. Pick out your favorite, bottle it yourself, and enjoy! Or pick out some for your friends who love to cook or entertain. Mangel's is stocked full of unique items from cards to home decor to linens to kitchen needs. I especially love their birdhouses. The Dog House of Long Grove features everything your best friend needs from healthy treats to warm sweaters and squeaky toys. They even have a kitty corner for us cat lovers. Pick up some beautiful yarn at the I'd Rather Be Knitting Yarn Studio. Beginners will be happy to learn the staff is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Warm up by stopping for lunch at Suzi's Tea & Cafe to enjoy a hot mug of blueberry, vanilla coconut, or any of their many teas, and a sandwich by the fire. After a long afternoon of shopping, stop in to the Apple Haus for a warm, yummy fresh-baked treat or some hot apple cider. TIP: Get your directions to Long Grove from the website link below. Online mapping sites often get this one wrong! The site also includes directions to get there via Metra and Pace bus lines, as well as lodging information. Long Grove Village Long Grove Village, Lake County, IL written by Anna Inabinet on December 11, 2006
You can't talk about Quartino without first mentioning the wine. It is, afterall, "where wine is cheaper than water," and is based on the European tradition of pricing local wines as a cheaper alternative to water. The expansive wine list features a hand-picked selection of Italian wines, many which are unique to Quartino. Many wines can be purchased by the quartino (a little more than a glass), the mezzo (half liter), or the litre (liter), so it is easy for everyone to enjoy their favorites. Best of all, the wine list explains the wines so that even the beginner can pick out the perfect glass (or bottle... or liter) to suit their taste. My party of four managed to drink two liters of red wine and one bottle of Prosecco (sparkling wine) for less than you might spend on one or two bottles at other restaurants. Not to be outdone by the wine, the food at Quartino is the perfect accompaniment to great wine and great company. Served on small plates for the whole table to share, the menu features everything from an antipasto menu to pasta and pizza to octopus. Our waiter recommended each person order 2 items and that would be plenty for the whole table, and he was right. My recommendations are the pan roasted clams in a pino grigio and red chili broth and the broccoli rabe (gotta eat those veggies!). In the name of research, and so I could inform you all fully on Quartino, I felt it was my duty to test the desserts. We ordered two desserts for the four of us, and although they were both out of this world, one dessert would have been plenty. It's been five days and I still can't stop thinking about the Panino al Gelato di Limone (lemon cream gelato sandwhiched between to delectable lemon cookies). TIP: Call ahead for reservations, or make reservations on Quartino's website. It was packed when we went on a Friday night, but we had reservations and were seated in about 10 minutes. Quartino Red Line to Chicago stop (walk S on State) Quartino, River North written by Anna Inabinet on November 16, 2006
Hairbanger's Ball is a band paying tribute to the "Decade of Decadence" in a new and crazy way. They tout themselves as being not just a band, but the wildest party in town. And they are right! I didn't know what to expect when I agreed to go with a group of friends to see Hairbanger's Ball. What I got was a flashback to my pre-teen years, hairbrush in hand, singing along to Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer" in front of the bathroom mirror. Perfectly over-the-top, Hairbanger's Ball plays all of the 80s hair band classics, and I can guarantee that if you grew up in the 80s, experiencing Hairbanger's Ball will fill you with nostalgia, which quickly turns to full-out singing and dancing and reliving those younger years. I have to admit I was pretty tired, achy, and hoarse the next day from all of the jumping around and singing, but I can't wait until the Ball comes back to Chicago so I can see them again. Hairbanger's Ball plays all over Illinois and Indiana, as well as in some surrounding areas. In Chicago, they frequent Joe's Bar, and can be found at many of the neighborhood festivals during the beautiful Chicago summer months. Hairbanger's Ball Hairbanger's Ball, Chicagoland Area written by Anna Inabinet on November 9, 2006
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