City Girl Chicago

dressing table styling

2012-02-24T06:30:00.000-06:00

I've been looking for the perfect dressing table (aka vanity table) for a while now, and yesterday I found it! It is the Cynthia table from Safavieh, and I love it for its white wash finish, gold pull handles, petite size, and feminine appeal.

And of course once I found it, I excitedly began thinking about how I would style it. I think any dressing table needs to include a few key components, don't you?

lighting / seating / jewelry tree / vase / feather tray / candle / mirror

I quite like the look of these pieces together ~ do you? It's ultra-girly, which is perfect for morning make-up.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to powder my nose. ;)

take care of yourselves people, puhlease.

2012-02-23T08:22:00.000-06:00

So today, I have a story and a plea. It’s lengthy, but I hope you find itworthwhile to read. Up until this point, only my good friends and family haveknown that I was going through a bit of a rough spot, but yesterday I receivedsome good news from doctors and decided it was time to share. I debated puttingthis all out here at first, but if my story can help just one more person, thenit's worth sharing in my eyes.

Ok, so the story. Rewind to about two and a half years ago, when I went tothe dermatologist to ensure I had picture perfect skin before my wedding. Shespotted a mole she didn't like the looks of, and advised I have it removed. Ibasically begged her to let me ignore it until after my honeymoon, and agreedI'd get it taken care of upon my return.

I had a fantastic wedding and honeymoon, and when I returned, I didn't makethe appointment with the surgeon as I'd promised. I was having too much funenjoying life, and frankly just didn't feel susceptible to disease. It wasn'tuntil this winter when I developed a rash from dry skin that the topic came upagain. I was talking to my friends about how I needed to go to thedermatologist to get my rash taken care of, but was worried she'd be mad at mefor not taking care of my mole. My friends urged me to see the doctor, and getboth things taken care of once and for all. One of my friends even followed upwith me a couple days later to make sure I made the appointment (yes, I havegreat friends!)

So I made the appointment. And my doctor immediately determined that Ishould have two moles removed and have biopsies performed. Sometimes they willdo a “punch test” or scrape the mole to do a biopsy first before full removal,but I think with my history of being a run-away patient she didn’t trust me toreturn. So I had the two moles cut out,and figured everything would be fine.

I had no idea what I was walking into at my follow-up appointment. I was coming in to get the stitches removed;it was a routine nurse appointment, I wasn't even supposed to see my doctor.When she walked into the room and sat down is when I realized something waswrong.

To be honest that conversation is kind of a blur. She asked me if I knewwhat melanoma was, and I think I nodded as she showed me the lab reports. Themole on my back showed cells of melanoma in the first stage. She explained tome that I was very lucky to have caught the cancer this early (thank youfriends!), but that they hadn't removed all of it and that I needed to havesurgery to remove the surrounding area and ensure the cancer cells hadn'tspread.

So I went home, suddenly terrified and not feeling invincible anymore. I waited a week to have the surgery, so Icould try to enjoy my birthday, and after the surgery had to wait another weekwondering if the biopsy would be clear. I was scared, and for the first time Ican remember in my life, felt completely 100% vulnerable. I prayed a lot that week and tried to findpeace that either way, I was on the path intended for me.

Yesterday I found out that the surgery was a success, and all the cancercells have been removed. I cannot tell you the weight I feel that has beenlifted. And with this good news, I wanted to share this with my readers and putin a plea to you.

So, my plea:

My revelation was that no one is immune to bad things happening to them, andwe all need to try to take care of ourselves the best we can. I BEG of youto be careful in the sun, tanning beds, etc. and see a doctor regularly for a skin check. I owe my friends a huge thank you;if we hadn't had that talk chances are I would have waited much longer to goto the doctor and could be in a very different position. As many of you readersbecome girlfriends, spouses, and parents, it is more important than ever to takecare of ourselves and our families. We cannot be of help to anyone else if wedo not first take care of ourselves.

I found this video to be an incredibly compelling message to take care of our skin:

Want to know what medical warning signs to look for? Visit this page from the Cancer Research Institute.

Spicy Sauteed Cabbage Salad

2012-02-21T06:30:00.000-06:00

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I spottedthis recipe in Bon Appétit when I was in search of a warm wintry salad. I likedthe fact it had beans in it, as I'm always in search of multiple sources ofprotein, and I really liked the fact it had a kick to it {in fact, I increasedthe heat by doubling the red pepper, so if you like less spice halve what Iincluded in the recipe below}. We ate this twice in dinners last week, oncealongside salmon, and then atop rice in a dish I made up on a whim. The fact that itis balanced by the acidity of lemon meant that I could get away with using itas a substitute for kimchi. I made jasmine rice, crisped bits of pork belly ina frying pan, fried up a couple eggs, and layered the rice, cabbage salad, porkbelly and eggs together to form an utterly delightful comforting dinner. Myonly misstep was when the pup came into the kitchen with something in hermouth, causing a chaotic moment and some overdone eggs. But that aside, thiswill definitely be a salad I create again, and a dish I'll pair it with timeand time again.

[yes the egg was overdone, but the meal was delightful]

To print a pdf version of this recipe, click here.

Happy Tasty Tuesday~

Making to-do lists and crossing them off

2012-02-20T06:30:00.000-06:00

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I don't know about you, but I am a total list maker. I make lists for work tasks, volunteer tasks, blog tasks, home chores, grocery shopping, and well, the list goes on. I probably should have a list for my lists. And inevitably, with all this list making can sometimes come the overwhelming feeling of having just one too many items on your lists... or maybe more like 50 too many items. In this day and age, where we have so much technology that asks for our immediate attention (the blinking smartphone! the email pop-ups! the several instant messaging systems we keep open all day long!), it's more important than ever to prioritize. I'm by no means an expert, but I found (via Ashley, an awesome blogger gf) some expert advice that I plan to put to practice this week.

It's called the "priority tag method", and it involves prioritizing your tasks in one of four categories:

A - urgent and important
B - important, but not urgent
C - urgent, but not important
D - not urgent or important

Now this is a concept I can latch onto. The thought is that the items you mark with 'A's should be focused on first, then 'B's, and so on. I like it because it forces you to distinguish between what's truly important versus what may falsely seem to be a priority because it's urgent. If you've ever stopped doing something important to read an email that just popped up, my bet is this method could work for you too. :)

Interested in learning more? Read the full article here.

Now I'm off to make my Monday to-do list and tag each item A-D... but before I do, any tips you have to keeping your to-do lists manageable? Do share.

P.S ~ A cute daily to-do list template you can print via Life's a Journal.

City Girl Review:: Longman & Eagle

2012-02-17T08:20:00.000-06:00

amuse-bouche ofscallops

bone marrow with bacon-shallot jam and pickled kumquat

buffalo sweetbreads, aerated ranch

pastrami-spiced pig head, sauerkraut gnocchi

monkfish, celery root-apple puree, hedgehog mushrooms, brussel leaves, red wine veal reduction

crispy confit of pork belly, butternut risotto, soy chestnut broth

One of the benefits ofcreating and posting a yearly Dining Wish List is that friends inevitably wantto join me and cross restaurants off the list together, which of course I love. Longman& Eagle was one such place, and on a Tuesday night, our motley crew set outto explore Chef Wentworth's undertaking.

Longman & Eagle quicklymoved to the tippy top of my list of favorites, for its unique understanding offood and downright tasty flavors. Chef Wentworth masters the farm-to-table,nose-to-tail aesthetic with ease, and ultimately brings decadent and uniqueingredients to diners at a price point we can understand.

And what's better, everythingwe ate here tasted impeccably. It is this kind of restaurant that I love ~ onewhich can take a high-end ingredient like foie, elevate the flavors and createa masterful dish, keep the roots humble and the approach, well, totallyapproachable. It is no wonder Longman & Eagle now has a long list of accolades,including a star from the Chicago Michelin Guide.

The food is inventive and sometimes whimsical, such as the buffalosweetbreads which looked smartly like buffalo wings and ranch dip, allowingthose with a discerning eye to just enjoy the flavors. The bone marrow, withits bacon-shallot jam, pickled kumquat, and sea salt all served with toast, wasthe smoothest, most balanced marrow I've had to date. And the pig's face in allits glory, sat atop a bed of beautiful sauerkraut gnocchi with just the rightbite, had the table oooing and ahhing with delight. There was not one platewhich left us disappointed, not one misstep in execution or concept to pointto.

In fact, the difficulty of choosing an entree is my only gripe. How is onesupposed to choose between the crispy pork belly in a puddle of butternutrisotto and chestnut broth or the most tender monkfish with celery root-applepuree? Each of us ordered differently so we could share bites, but I'll befirst to admit when it came time to share I had already settled into mymonkfish and was quite content not to share a bit, thankyouverymuch. I did to be a good sport, and found each dish madeup for the lost bite of monk, proving the hands and minds in the kitchen areable to consistently execute impeccable food.

Longman & Eagle is adefinite must-try for all walks of foodies, and should be repeatedly visited todiscover the new items on their menu which are constantly evolving. Thisis a restaurant that understands food, with a Chef that understands flavor.

Longman & Eagle
2657 N. Kedzie Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
reservations not accepted

Comfort Food at its finest

2012-02-15T06:30:00.000-06:00

Today is going to be a little stressful (but my birthday yesterday was great; I will definitely post a dining recap soon!), and I can only hope that we will be able to have something as comforting as Gaslight Bar and Grill's mac + cheese flight for dinner tonight. I made a trip there recently to check out this new menu item, and I have to say I felt gluttonous and utterly delighted at the same time. I don't know about you all, but macaroni and cheese is the epitome of comfort food to me, and Gaslight has a new unique twist on the idea that accomplishes a couple of things.

For starters, food that is prepared multiple ways usually accomplishes an instant elevation of the dish, and this macaroni flight is no exception (there are exceptions, but this is not one of them.) In addition, the choice to pair your mac and cheese trio with either a wine or beer flight is pretty genius. I found myself coming back to the smoked cheddar mac paired with an earthy syrah because the duo was really delightful. My favorite macaroni was definitely the brie, with roasted apples and caramelized onions, because it hit my weak spot for sweet and savory. And my favorite stand-alone wine was the tempranillo, so altogether I was grazing on each item pretty evenly. It was a fun way to spend a Tuesday night, and an instant way to find comfort in food. Cheese + wine? You're speaking my language.

I used to come to Gaslight quite often when I lived in the neighborhood, as I find it to be a great casual date spot or place for girlfriends to gather. They make a mean salad and now also, a mean mac + cheese.

Romance is in the air, Romance is everywhere

2012-02-14T06:30:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Like it or hate it, the day is here. Personally, I'd rather embrace it with cheer. I've always been a fan of the day where flowers, chocolate, lace, and love are celebrated. To me it's never been about having one person to call your Valentine, it's about spreading the love to all you care about.

For those of you who will be doing something today to celebrate, what will you do? And what will you wear? I scored this pleated number from United Colors of Benetton last week and am excited to break it out tonight. I love the etheral quality I think it has. I'm thinking rose gold jewellry and nude heels will be just the ticket to romance. The husband is surprising me with our dining destination for the evening, because I love surprises, and it's also my birthday (but sshh, let's keep that between us). Now you see why I like this day? :)

Happy Valentine's Day lovelies!

Quiet time

2012-02-13T06:30:00.000-06:00

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How do you take time for yourself? Are you a yogi, or a home cook, or a poet? Do you get a weekly manicure, or go for a run, or read a book?

How do you like to spend your quiet time? I've been thinking about this. Even though I don't have kids, dog + husband does not = quiet time. Quiet time for most of us, is something we have to create.

This week, I'm going to work on creating about 30 minutes a day of uninterrupted quiet time. Just for me. We'll see how I spend it. :)

That's my Monday Meditation ~

City Girl Review:: Farmhouse

2012-02-08T06:26:00.000-06:00

check out the vintage Bevador

the trout was good, but the chicken was better

devilish fried cheese curds

It was a blustery Fridaynight when the husband and I jumped on the El and headed over to Farmhouse.Where a rundown Bar Louie used to stand, Farmhouse brings new life to ChicagoAve, and a new novel restaurant to Chicago altogether.

Farmhouse wanted theirMidwestern roots to be obvious, and to accomplish this they've salvaged much ofthe restaurant from local Chicago homes, restaurants and the like. They alsocreated a long menu of great Midwestern craft beer, and included some Michiganwine for good measure. While the owners are rumored to have anticipated more ofa bar scene than restaurant for Farmhouse, they soon found out local ingredients fused intotasty dishes are also in high demand.

With their daily and weeklyspecials displayed up on a chalkboard, and the menu sourcing high quality localpurveyors, Farmhouse delivers on its mission. We started with the fried cheesecurds because of the breathy words spoken about them, and they delivered in alltheir fried glory.

Next up for me was thetrout, while the husband went with the doted upon Amish roasted chicken. I was trying to balance the decadence of friedcheese curds with something a little bit kinder to my waistline, but come nexttime I think I will just embrace what Farmhouse does best: comfort foods at their finest. I was lucky to be able to snag a bite of thechicken, and found it to be just as insanely delicious and buttery as I’d heardit to be. I wouldn’t normally go to arestaurant and order the chicken, but Farmhouse is my one exception.

We topped the evening offwith the spiced fig and toffee bread pudding, and I was in dessert heaven. Farmhouse makes for agreat River North hangout spot, a tasty meal of comfort foods, and a greatatmosphere to stay a while and try some of the different craft beers.

Check this one off the Dining List. :)

Cauliflower Curry Soup

2012-02-07T06:26:00.000-06:00

I was in need of some homemade soup on Sunday, and stumbling upon this recipe thought I'd found just the ticket. What was created however was far different than what I was expecting, and in a very good way ~ it's a very elegant soup, rich and velvety in taste without an ounce of cream, with each spoonful starting out subtle in flavor and then intensifying as the heat of the curry and cayenne run across your tongue. It has interesting complexity and would be great for a dinner party, or with some small changes / adaptations, I could easily see this on a restaurant menu from a place that likes to surprise the tastebuds.

To print a pdf version of this recipe, click here.

Happy Tasty Tuesday!

Monday Meditation ~ Living Healthfully

2012-02-06T06:26:00.000-06:00

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For those of you just catching up here, Monday Meditation is my time on theblog to set a new intention for the week. Last Monday I wanted to focus onspending my time wisely, and I'm happy to report that last week was veryproductive, in large part due to the focused attention on how I was spending mytime. The flip side of this however was that my week was so productive,that come Friday evening I just about melted onto my couch with a big glass ofwine and, perhaps a tear or two, because I felt overworked and completely overwhelmed. It inevitability seems the more thingsyou check off your to-do list, the more room you make for new items to be added. And if you take no breaks and have nochance to take a step back and just think,your to-do list can seemingly swallow you up. (Or at least, these were my thoughts as I nestled into my couch cushionsFriday night.) Which brings me to thisweek's Meditation.

This week, my goal is to live life healthfully. What does this mean? To meit means with balance and thoughtfulness. Balance between work, relaxation, andexercise. Thoughtfulness about how I treat my body ~ healthy foods, enoughsleep, and water. I'd like to take a step backfrom the crazy hamster wheel we call life, to regain a sense of health andbalance.

What things do you incorporate in your life to maintain your balance andcomposure? How do you live life healthfully? I'd love to hear.

Tasty Tuesday ~ Pork Tenderloin Stuffed with Roasted Red Peppers, Olives and Spinach

2012-01-31T06:26:00.000-06:00

This is one of the recipes I learned in the meat butchery class I recently took, and when we sat down to eat it for dinner, I was thrilled how tender and juicy it came out. This is a great recipe to host a party with, as you can prepare it ahead of time and simply put it in the oven when your guests arrive. It also makes for elegant tableside presentation, and paired with a nice glass of wine and some couscous, is an effortless, elegant meal.

To print a pdf version of this recipe, click here.

Happy Tasty Tuesday!

Monday Meditation ~ Spending Time Wisely

2012-01-30T06:26:00.000-06:00

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Last week I started a series coined Monday Meditation. The point is to bring a different idea to reflect on each week, with an associated action to take to live the meditation out, and ultimately start simplifying my life. I hope this will become a journey we can take together, as each week we can share our experiences with last week's meditation, and open the week with a new meditation in mind.

Last week I wanted to begin by thinking about my wants and desires vs. what I truly value. I lived the meditation out by not buying anything discretionary. Some of the ways I took action on this? By automatically deleting any "deal of the day" emails (Joss & Main, One King's Lane, Groupon, you name it), by not spending time perusing the catalogs received in the mail, by not succumbing to my itch to drop by the drugstore to pick up a new nail polish. And you know what? This was extremely liberating, and thus is the launching pad for this week's meditation.

You see, I discovered the more I found ways to limit my time spent perusing things I want, the more time I freed up to spend on things worthwhile. I also found it was almost an instant de-cluttering of the mind. Rather than thinking about things I'd like to add to my wish list, I had "mind space" freed up to think about anything else. And this payoff was greater than the punishment. While at first I felt I was sacrificing, I soon discovered it was just the opposite. And that got me thinking... what other things could I cut out of my daily routine to free up space in my mind (and calendar) to focus on other things more worthwhile?

And that is the topic for this Monday Meditation. What do you do nearly every day (or every week) that when you stop and think about it, it really isn't that important to who you want to be, and how you want to live your life? Maybe it's surfing facebook, or watching a bad reality TV show, or catalog surfing and finding items for your lust list, or recipe surfing and being too picky about weekly meal planning (eh-hem, this is totally me).

I plan to limit my time on social media (unless it is strategic use for blogging) and apply this time to activities like reading and yoga. Give it a shot with me. Every time you reach for that remote, or mouse, or catalog, put it down and do a replacement activity you find more worthwhile. Or collect the time saved throughout the week and do a replacement activity that adds up to this total time. I'll report back next week, with a new meditation in hand.

I'd love to hear: What is one item you spend time on which isn't worthwhile to you, and what could you replace it with?

The Day I Lived My Dream Day

2012-01-26T08:11:00.002-06:00

Tre Latti cake ~ just one of the sweet spots of the day

OK, so let me preface this by saying I know right now what I'm about to describe is not everyone's dream day. I could sashay off to Paris and kiss under the Eiffel Tower and I have a feeling I'd have a lot more of your votes for what you might consider a dream day to be. But this recent day was so close to perfect in my eyes, I had to share.

You see, it started with a 10AM meat butchery class. That's right ~ my dream day includes close to 5 hours of learning how to hack meat. What, yours doesn't? I've always wanted to know how to break down a chicken with finesse, or how to fillet a fish with confidence, and when a class popped up on the Chopping Block calendar that had just these very objectives, I was sold.

Chef Ed demonstrates how to break down a chicken

Trying my hand at the skill

The finished product of the chicken I broke down

So yes, for the next five hours I listened to Chef Ed instruct the class on how to properly do these tasks, and then we each practiced on our own poultry, fish and meat. It was strangely exhausting, and ultimately exhilarating. We then sat down to enjoy the meal we'd just made, and I found a new appreciation (and pride) for finding no bones in my fish.

But oh no, the fun wasn't over yet. With just 20 minutes to spare, we hopped in a cab and bustled over to Terzo Piano at the Modern Wing for the second cooking class of the day. The environment and experience couldn't be more opposite from the first, which is exactly what made the day perfection. After 5 hours of meat hacking, it's nice to have a break. And that's what a demonstration class at Terzo Piano is, a leisurely meal with excellent drink and fare, royal treatment and fun foodie wisdom dispelled.

Chef Tony Mantuano adds color commentary to the class at Terzo Piano

This mushroom risotto was heavenly

And one of the best parts of this day? I came home with a baker's dozen of new recipes in my arsenal. Of which, the mushroom risotto will be the first to make its debut in my kitchen ~ to. die. for.

I then came home and watched Midnight in Paris. Just for all you romantics out there, to get in a dose of Paris. :)

So I ask, what does your dream day entail?

Warm Pasta Salad with Spinach, Tuna, and Capers

2012-01-24T06:26:00.000-06:00

Around the time New Year's resolutions were being established, I wanted to whip up something light, refreshing, and healthy to balance out all the decadence I had indulged in the week before. It was then that I discovered this pasta salad, and it's been in the rotation ever since.

You can eat this salad warm as an entree, or cold as a side. The lemon and garlic dressing is tangy and fresh, and honestly makes me feel a little bit more summery as I look out the window on this cold January day. I also really like the leftovers cold the next day for lunch!

To print a pdf version of this recipe, click here.

Happy Tasty Tuesday!

Monday Meditation

2012-01-23T06:26:00.000-06:00

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I am thinking of starting up a new weekly series called Monday Meditation. It stems from the fact I've been feeling a pull as of late to streamline my life a bit. I thought if I set a weekly idea I'd like to focus on, and put it out here, I would hold myself accountable to it, and would start to chip away at the lofty idea of simplifying my life.

Please join me if you'd like and take on each week's meditation and goal, or use the opportunity to reflect on it and evaluate if it's something you would want to incorporate in your life in some way. Leave me a comment here and this can become our little forum and weekly community. Deal?

Chances are if you're reading my blog, you're reading several others, and may even be a blogger yourself. Do you ever stop to think about what impact reading these blogs has on your life, your habits? Most all blogs I read are incredibly inspirational, and that's what keeps me coming back. I like to follow "tastemakers" in different areas to stay up on the trends around home interiors, fashion, food, etc. But on the flip side of all this inspiration, is the risk of letting your mind slip to a feeling of deficiency. I would be lying if I said I've never read a blog about a great shoe, purse, home accessory, and added the item to my ever-growing wish list, even though it wasn't even on my radar before. By consolidating all the wants and desires you discover from several sources, all of a sudden you can feel like your wish list is a little overwhelming. Don't get me wrong, it's fun to discover new things to aspire to do or have, it's just a matter of maintaining balance, and keeping things in perspective.

This week, I'll live out this Monday Meditation by neither posting about any consumer products nor will I buy anything discretionary. It's really for myself, to reflect on what is necessary vs. nice-to-have, and put my ever-growing wish list in perspective.

Anyone want to join me? Can anyone relate? And, do you like the idea of this being a weekly series, with a new "meditation" each Monday?

Cauliflower Pizza Crust

2012-01-20T06:30:00.000-06:00

In all my efforts to do somewhat of a life overhaul this year (or so I've coined it, though I'm sure it won't be nearly as dramatic), I promise I won't turn this into a sap story of a journal where I torment you with my trials and tribulations. Onto more fun topics. Cauliflower pizza crust.

I first heard of this wondrous recipe from Dr. Oz, then later saw it pop up in my Google reader from Beth, and as I'm known for not keeping carbs in my house (I'm still teased over this point by my foodie friend who at one point was looking through my cabinets practically screaming "WHERE ARE YOUR CARBS?!"), I thought it only apropos I make a low-carb pizza crust right?

And the results were so tasty I had to share. It's definitely different from your standard pizza crust, but it fulfilled my pizza craving just the same. And the crust itself is really flavorful, as the mozzarella and herbs really shine through. The cauliflower doesn't distract from all the other familiar flavors of pizza, and the bonus is it won't weigh you down either. I found the recipe below was perfect for two to share for dinner.

I topped ours with thinly sliced chicken sausage, caramelized onions, and spinach. YUM!

To print a pdf version of this recipe, click here.

Happy Foodie Friday!

{an honest post} Part 2 ~ Your Turn

2012-01-19T09:02:00.000-06:00

turning the tables ~ get it? ;-)

So in my fevor to overhaul my life, I thought one good place to start would be to reach out to others. Today is your turn. In addition to internally contemplating what it is I should be focusing on here, I think it'd be really helpful to hear what you think I should be focusing on. What do you like reading here? Why do you come back? Who do you think of me as? What do you wish you heard more about from me?

I think it's an interesting exercise, because who you know me as and who I think of myself as could potentially be different. In fact, I'm willing to bet they are. Point in case, I recently attended an {ever-so-fun} blogger event in which I was asked if I cook fairly often. This made me scratch my head for a moment, as I cook almost every single night! In my mind, cooking and food is such a huge important part of my life. But I realize I don't always write about what I'm cooking up in the kitchen. And maybe I should be... or maybe not.

I promise you can be honest ~ I will not take offense to any constructive criticism! I so value your readership and my end goal is to take your input and fuse it with my own. Please leave a comment, email me, tweet me, etc. with your input! I'm determined to make this year of 2012 really count!

And then after this, we can go back to the regular scheduled program {at least while I sift through it all!} :)

an honest post

2012-01-18T06:26:00.000-06:00

This seems to be my most recent mantra I find myself repeating {talking to myself has become fairly normal lately}. This new year already seems to have brought a lot of change. Changes with work {stressful}, and stewing changes with the blog. As in, I'm stewing on them. Do you ever contemplate doing a bit of an overhaul on your life? Because really, that's where I feel I stand today.

And I wanted to share just that bit of my thought process, because I recognize I have slipped a little in terms of posting more often than not here. I have a backlog of recipes I'd like to share, a restaurant crossed of my 2012 Dining Wish List, and many other posts in the works. But none of it seems quite right, because I'm not sure where my focus is, or where I want my focus to be. And I'm quite determined to go through the process to discover this, my focus. I'm just trying to recognize that it's a journey and not a sprint. And it's a bumpy journey, with twists and turns and a rough road ahead.

In the past I've been a bit of an impulsive decision-maker in a way. I decide I want to do something, so I go out and do it. I recognize action is a usually a good thing, and this is the step that can seem paralyzing for some, but for me, I want more reflection before action. I want to lay out a strategy so my actions all align to my end goal. I want to take action with intention, not action on impulse.

And I'm not telling you it is going to be easy, I'm telling you it's going to be worth it.

To be continued...

2012 Dining Wish List

2012-01-12T08:13:00.001-06:00

My list of top restaurants for the year is always paired with a second list ~ my dining wish list for the upcoming year. These are all restaurants I've yet to try, and a lot of research and careful choosing comes into play when creating this list. I look at factors such as type of cuisine, atmosphere, accolades and awards, chef biographies, and other press and public reviews. Twelve spots make the list, one for each month, which is typically feasible. I admit I didn't get to all 12 of my Dining Wish List last year, which is why some restaurants appear here again. I chalk it up to many group dinners where I wasn't able to choose the restaurant ~ need to work on that. :)

So without further adieu, in no particular order, my top 12 restaurants to dine at for 2012:

Ruxbin ~ this uber small bistro takes influence from Chef Edward Kim's Asian heritage and French techniques, and that's my favorite kind of fusion (think the retired Spring, or Bonsoiree). I'm seriously excited ~ just read the menu and you will be too.

Schwa ~ this will be the year I taste the genius of Chef Michael Carlson. With it's ever-changing menu and overlooked storefront facade, I'm anticipating some of the most artistic of meals I've ever experienced. And food as art ~ let's have it.

Next ~ I'll admit, I was initially unsure on the whole concept of Next, as the ticketing process makes one jump through a lot of hoops. But after many high marks from respected parties, I'm on the bandwagon to give it a go. Or at least try to, if I can score a seat.

Bar TOMA ~ I've been to Bar TOMA to sip incredible espresso, and am looking forward to going back to dine. Tony Mantuano's newest venture is already buzzing, and it's not just because there are caffeinated espresso aficionados inside. A mozzarella bar and gelateria? Yes please.

Longman & Eagle ~ This place has long been calling my name. My first attempt met my party with a three hour wait (so we bailed), which I think may have discouraged the husband but not me. I'm happy to see the farm-to-table, nose-to-tail aesthetic hasn't lost any ground.

Takashi ~ Yes, I know, another small French Asian fusion place makes the list? Shocker. Chef Takashi Yagihashi continues to receive praise for his noodles, and I intend to see why in this flagship restaurant. Heard of Slurping Turtle? Takashi is the mastermind there too.

Nellcôte (to open in Feb) ~ Attached to what will be called RM Champagne Salon, Nellcote boasts a "Rock 'n' roll bohemian chic" atmosphere with "obsessively hand-made European inspired fare". Enough said? I thought so.

GT Fish & Oyster ~ Seeing as though my favorite food is seafood, I am dying to check this place out. Let's see if the Lobster Roll beats out Thomas Keller's from Ad Hoc. I think it will.

Telegraph ~ The team behind Webster Wine Bar and Bluebird opened Telegraph this past summer, and seeing as though I've enjoyed many a good meal at their previous two places, I expect no less from here. A seasonal highly-organic menu with extensive wine list? Sounds like a great night out to me.

Farmhouse ~ Farm-to-table translated so literally it's refreshing. With the locally-sourced menu posted on a chalkboard, plenty of local brews to choose from, and a roasted chicken dish that's touted as "the best", how could it not make the list?

2 Sparrows ~ What is with it and me liking the smallest of places this year? Perhaps it is a sign of the times. I'm intrigued by the tiny, ever-evolving brunch menu. Maple & bacon doughnut? Don't mind if I do.

Cumin ~ I was devasted, devasted I tell you, when my local modern Indian restaurant Veerasway closed this past year. I'm hoping Cumin can be it's replacement. Just thinking about mango lassi makes my mouth water.

If I make it to all of these spots, I will be eating very well this year. And that's just the way I like it.

P.S. ~ My 2011 Dining Wish List.

Top 11 Chicago Restaurants of 2011

2012-01-09T06:36:00.000-06:00

In usual fashion, January for me is a month of reflection onthe past year. In particular the pastyear of dining. Chicago had 6 chefsrepresent the city on Top Chef, the winner of which will be announced in theupcoming weeks. The Chicago Gourmet festival was touted as more organized andfood-focused than ever before. TheMichelin Guide put out updated ratings for 2011, and I didn't read one reviewthat agreed full-heartedly in their decisions. And what does that say? People here have strong opinions about theirfood, and care about the restaurant scene. Chicago is now more than ever a culinarymecca. And I'm starting to think 2012will be even better.

So what were my favorites of 2011? Here I give you my list of Top 11 DiningFavorites of 2011. In order to make thislist I must have dined at the restaurant in 2011. Some restaurants return to this list,signaling they're standing the test of time. And others were added as new favorite discoveries.

11) Leopold (reviewed here):: I fell in love with Leopold'sclassy hipster atmosphere, but even more so, the Belgian style favorites suchas mussels, frites and a Belgian ale simply hit the spot.

10) Karyn's on Green (reviewed here):: Karyn is the magician in this mix. To take delicious dishes and turn them veganis a true form of art. I was inspired bythe crab cakes, and amazed by the gelato. I’d love to take a vegan non-believer here and turn their world upsidedown.

9) La Madia (reviewed here):: I’m a little ashamed to admit how many times Iwent to La Madia this year. Ok, I’mnot. At least six. That’s saying a lot considering I have apension for trying new restaurants. Ijust can’t help myself- the cracked egg and prosciutto pizza calls my name,along with the six-hour roasted grapes, and I just can’t refuse. I turn to La Madia for girls night, datenight, casual lunch, or group dinner.

8) The Publican:: The Publican does it again. With Chef Kahnstill behind the meat cleaver, this pig-mania isn’t going anywhere anytimesoon. A friend and I split theridiculous bacon one brunch, and I swear it popped up in one of my dreams.

7) The Purple Pig::Another pig-tastic experience! Pig ears,bone marrow, and milk braised pork shoulder all shine. With a superior wine list, great location and outdoor patio, I'm looking forward to many more meals here.

6) Vera (reviewed here):: has the best sherry in town. By far. And they’ve even nailed the often overlooked bread and butter. I’d go back to sit at the cheese andcharcuterie bar, and stay a while to enjoy the wine and sherry. I see big things for this little neighborhoodgem.

5) Maude's Liquor Bar (reviewed here):: is like your hipolder sister you strive to resemble. She’s so cool inside you expect the food to just be mediocre, to fallinto that trap of having the wrong kind of experts on the team. But then you have a drink, and you have abite, and any qualms go out the window. If only every hip Parisian parlor could be this great.

4) Terzo Piano (reviewed here):: will be one of my all-timeChicago favorites as long as the sun still shines. The chic modern décor, and gorgeous citybackdrop all become periphery to the plates Chef Meg Colleran creates. Whether a leisurely lunch, refined dinner, orfun cooking class, I’ve recommended Terzo Piano more times than any otherChicago restaurant.

3) Avec:: The quintessential restaurant for Chicago foodies to know. Even a full out fire can’t stop KorenGrieveson and team put together a remarkable menu, rustic fare, and justdownright delicious food.

2) Davanti Enoteca (reviewed here):: I still can recall thetaste of the pate as it's the closest to my grandmother’s I’ve evertasted. If I was a betting woman, I’dbet Davanti will reappear on this list next year. The laid-back atmosphere, exceptional Italiansmall plates, and friendly service transport you to the hillsides of Italy.

1) Graham Elliot:: Graham Elliot blew my socks off. Perhaps it was the fact we were celebratingtwo special occasions that night (our anniversary and a great job change forthe husband), or the fact we were invited to tour the kitchen and do a shot ofsorbet concoction with the chefs, but it was definitely the most special diningexperience I had all year. Flawlessexecution on multiple courses, including foie gras with pop rocks. To do thedrink pairings here is well worth the price tag – I never knew how much depth adrink could bring to a dish until Graham Elliot.

Coming soon, my Dining Wishlist for 2012.

P.S. ~ My Dining Favorites of 2010.

My holiday card to you

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

Last night we put the Christmas music on, turned on the twinkling lights, lit the cinnamon-scented candles, and got to work. Writing out our Christmas cards that is. Which look something like this. Cute right? The picture is a bit grainy I know, but nothing a new camera can't fix. :) Oh I didn't tell you? This past weekend Christmas came a week early for me, as I picked out my new DSLR camera! As soon as I learn it, you can expect to see an improvement in picture quality around these parts.

But back to the Christmas card. I thought I'd "send" this little holiday card onto you as well. I love how little Tipsy is taking her job to pose here so seriously. She really is the greatest little muse. And I think she embodies the holiday spirit quite well here too. And my message from my home to yours couldn't be more true.

So thanks for a great year, a lot of fun, inspiration and learning along the way. I wouldn't still be blogging if you weren't out there reading, and if I had all your addresses, you can trust I'd spend hours writing each of you individual holiday cards. But for now, this will have to suffice. :)

A night at Vera

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

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Friday night the hubs and I headed out to try out Vera, the new West Loop spot focused on Spanish small plates, sherry, and other worldly wines. Chef Mendez and his wife Elizabeth are the dynamic duo behind the vision, and, if I may appeal to Chicago chef trivia for just a moment, do they not remind you of the Spanish-flair version of Chef Tony and Cathy Mantuano? I love there are these pairs of culinary forces working as husband and wife teams in Chicago.

But in any case, I digress. Vera quickly grew on me, from my first step in the door. The small, intimate scene, complete with booths flanking the right, bar flanking the left, and cheese bar just behind it, evoked a sense of neighborhood right away. Destination diners and locals alike are sure to feel the hospitality, and few other places can you find the Executive Chef out in full sight the entire evening, talking with line cooks, servers, and patrons alike.

And the food. The food was made with love; rich, rich love. The bread and trio of butters delectable and sinful, the foie gras even smoother and creamier than the butter if that's possible. And the lamb chorizo? Order it. I know, I know, I must be on a lamb kick (reference here), but I don't think I could come back and pass this dish up. Next time I will also be trying the brussels sprouts with Iberico ham, and pork belly with persimmon salad. See, what did I tell you? Rich love.

Not to mention the sherry and wine selection. Both the husband and I tried a glass of Spanish sherry evoking hazelnuts that was just amazing. I then stuck with red wines, and tried both a glass of Tempranillo and Cab that were both complex in flavor and really, really good.

I see a section on their website labeled "Classes", with the byline "Coming Soon." Please, Chef Mendez, let me know when this happens. I'll be the first person signed up.

the final gift guide

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

1: infinity scarf / 2: bronze star / 3: hand-forged bangles

a: jonathan adler salt and pepper / b: urchin box / c: small bee dish / d: horn magnifier / e: pure and good hand duo

A: spherical ice tray / B: tortoiseshell toothbrush / C: beer making kit / D: passport holder / E: leather fringe key chain / F: wood grain iPhone case

PS ~ the winner of the holiday decor give-away is Jillian {of cornflake dreams}. Please email me with your shipping address!

artist spotlight ~ Catherine Cary

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

Do you ever find that when looking for some inspiration, you turn to one source time and time again? Perhaps it's a good book, a musician, a quiet part of your home, a favorite inspiration board, or, an artist.

Catherine Cary's art fills me with inspiration time and time again. I look to her strong strokes to find my center, to her energetic lines to find motivation. I happened to meet Catherine this past year at Chicago's Artropolis, and her persona was just as balanced and centered as her art.

So now I wonder, what do you look to for consistent inspiration?