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Wrigley12's Profile

Grass-fed beef in Chicago?

Check out themeatgoat.com. I have have their meat at the farmers market in my town. It's good and quite reasonable.

Decent, mid-priced American fare in Schaumburg?

I second Entourage. Great food and would be a great business environment. Nice since it is not a chain (at least that I know of) like most places in Schaumburg.

Niche in Geneva

I was wondering if anyone has tried Niche in Geneva? The seasonal menu looks divine. Also, I was wondering also the price range as well. Looking for places to celebrate a birthday (just me and hubby) in that area and like the fact that the menu is comprised of local food. Thanks!

Do any of the chefs cook at their restaurants anymore?

From what I have read, I agree with gleam. Many restaurants cannot afford to have the chef in kitchen due to the fact that they usually disrupt the flow that normally occurs. This doesn't really bother me when I go out.

Chicago Steakhouse

I second Primehouse - I had an excellent experience there. Dishes were typical steakhouse ones, but with some flares that made it standout, not too funky. Steaks were cooked perfectly. Service was very attentive and friendly.

Heritage Prairie Farm, Dinners on the Farm

This summer Heritage Prairie in Elburn/St. Charles has these Dinners on the Farm. I was wondering if anyone has gone to these or not and their feedback. They are on Thursday evenings. I have gone to their market store, but was curious about the dinners. Thanks!

Dress attire for Sepia?

Thanks for the fashion advice, we had a great time. It was nice to go to a restaurant and not have your food overly sauced. I really like the decor, more than most Chicago eats.

Best cupcakes in town?

They don't have a store I believe, but try Foiled Cupcakes. They deliver most places in Chicago and suburbs. Yummy! www.foiledcupcakes.com

Dress attire for Sepia?

Thanks for the update! I can't wait to try, in a city of so many restaurants, I am always impressed with true creativity.

Dress attire for Sepia?

I certainly wasn't planning on wearing jeans, but I didn't know if a little black dress would be too much, being a weeknight and all. Ms Chow, have not been to those other restaurants, that's why I was kind of looking for help. Thanks!

Dress attire for Sepia?

My husband and I will be dining on a weeknight at Sepia soon and I am wondering what attire would be appropriate? I am looking forward to what I hear is awesome fare. TIA!

Dinner in/near Barrington

I was planning a dinner for friends and was thinking about The Barn, but found out it is only a banquet/brunch place. Any suggestions for something on that par? I was not sure if there were any new places in the Arboreutum (sorry on that bad spelling). If not Barrington, I could do Schaumburg or anywhere near that also.

Niche vs. Atwaters in Geneva?

Looking for a nice dinner and did not know if one was better than then other. We are also staying at the Herrington, which is where Atwaters is, but traveling is not a big deal for us.

Thanks Hounds!

Where to Find Japanese Panko Bread Crumbs?

World Market has them - that store with the food and wine section in the back of the store.

Best place to buy bulk spices?

Ditto Penzey's...excellent quality and customer service and I like that when you order online, they usually send a freebie in there to try.

Good food in McHenry County?

Has anyone tried Duke's Ale House in CL? I hear they use local meat, produce. Was wondering what it is like...thanks!

Flour for baking bread

King Arthur Flour is the best I have tried, and I bake a decent amount of bread. The Trader Joe's in the burbs carries it as well. I have also obtained some incredible whole wheat flour from the winter farmers market.

LucyD - I haven't seen the 25# bags...where did you find them?

Turkey Testicle Festival, Huntley

It is a local fest - heated tents outside, bands, beer garden-esque. It usually gets pretty crowded. Going once was enough for me, though it was fun to try the testicles. (Proves you can deep fry anything!)

Best Steak in Chicago?

I have been the in the aging room at Primehouse - what a priviledge and what a sight! I had three different steaks there and all were excellent.

Where to order a local organic turkey?

Any places around here that you can order a local, organic turkey, preferably a different breed than just the standard turkey? Been reading the book "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" and got inspired.

Online recipes/websites you trust

For those that cook...where do you find your recipes online? I like to read reviews by people, but you never know what their background is...is chef boyardee their version of gourmet?..so their reviews really aren't valid in my book. I did not know if there were other websites where true foodies go in search of great recipes. I get Bon Appetite and Gourmet mags, but I was looking for something online.

Bulk spices

LIkestoEatout...no, I did not. I just assumed they originated in WI due to their headquarters being there. Well that sure takes care of the desire to go to Spice House! The Penzeys in Naperville is by me more than Spice House. Thanks for the tip!

Bulk spices

I am a Penzey's fanatic...they don't have tea, but spices in bulk at great prices. Locations in Naperville and I think Oak Park - you can also order online/catalogues. EXCELLENT customer service when calling and many times they throw in free spices for you to try.

www.penzeys.com

ALINEA?

This month's Gourmet magazine has a flattering write up about Achatz and Alinea. I have never been there, but after reading it, it sure made me want to go.

Good food in McHenry County?

Bueno Vista...where is that? My son loves burritos (don't we ALL?) so I think that might a place to try.

Good food in McHenry County?

I heard about a supper club place in Hampshire...any ideas on the name?

My personal favs are Montarra and Bistro Wasabi. As for creative food that isn't a chain in McHenry Co = good luck finding it!

Staying at the James Hotel, Primehouse a good dinner option?

Great place - you have to get the cheesecake lollipop tree for dessert - fun and tasty! I have not been to the one in NY, so I can't compare. Dinner was very good - service is superb. Had the honor of taking a cooking lesson there - chef Dino is incredible - and a really nice guy! I would definately go back again. JBar - the nightclub next door is fun too, after dinner.

Suggestions for something different and adventurous?

My DD and I have a free night and are looking to do something fun and adventurous. I'm not talking being adventurous like trying this "crazy new vietnamese place" but something different that could involve food. It would have to be at nighttime, so something like a food tour would be probably not an option. We are in the NW suburbs, but could go about anywhere. Thanks Chows!

Farmers markets with good produce - NW Suburbs

imclear,
Glad you enjoyed it...right now I am roasting some buttenut squash I got there last Sat. I got some corn and red peppers too - I had to restrain myself from buying everything! This Sat they are having an apple pie bake off contest. I think I will enter, although I am a little nervous having my food judged.

Looking for a good butcher Far NW suburbs

Butcher on the Block for me as well - in Lake in the Hills, Great service - excellent meats and wonderfully creative and tasty brats (any flavor you can imagine). They can get fresh seafood, but you have to call ahead (I think you have to call by Thurs and it comes on Friday, I want to say).