Eatnrun's Profile
Pasta in the Basement [Madison, WI]
My friends and I are getting ready to do Ironman Wisconsin in Madison the weekend of Sept. 7 and need some ideas for carb-loading. Last year I found a great restaurant throuch Chowhound, but the name escapes me. It was located in the basement of a building in an industrial area about a mile from the capitol. I think it may have been a union building. Had we not been careful, we would have walked right by it. The restaurant is located in the basement of the building. The food was great and very reasonable, and best of all it was walking distance from Monona Terrace which is where we're staying. Any other recommendations which are walking distance from the Capitol but outside the main drag would be most appreciated. There are 2200 hungry athletes plus their families in town!
Whidbey Island Eats?
A bunch of us girls are running the marathon on Whidbey island in a few weeks. Any of you chowhounders know some casual, inexpensive spots where we can get a great meal?
Dinner in Waukegan
One of the best kept secrets of dining in Waukegan is El Ranchito Michoacano, 1310 N. Lewis AV in Waukegan. The owner/chef attended culinary school in NY. The menu is extensive, includes lots of seafood. The restaurant, located at the north end of Waukegan on Lewis and Glen Flora (next to Popeye's) looks like an old Taco Bell, but it is spotless, and the food is extraordinary. No finer Mexican dining on the North Shore. Wed. is half-price margueritas ($2!). I dine in or order out. The crab cakes are fresh and spicey and delicious. It's just being discovered by the snooty North Shore diners....Well worth the trip.
Lunch in Lake Forest, IL
Lovell's is way over-rated and very expensive. Deer Path is for old people, and even though I am close to being old, I wouldn't eat there. Boring....Southgate is ok; outdoor seating is nice. But for relatively inexpensive, in-town, and nice menu try Francesca's, close to Market Square, or even better, The Grille on Laurel, best choice. Great summer dining al fresco or cozy in the winter by the fire. Live entertainment on Thurs. PM. Great food, great bar, not too crowded, close to downtown, best value. Definitely the best choice.
