Las Palmas (http://www.laspalmasmexrst.com/) Mexican Restaurant in Glenview offers a top notch quality restaurant that offers some of the finest Mexican cuisine on the North Shore. It started on Howard Street and has flourished and blossomed with more locations. The inspiration for the menu comes from the traditional Mexican kitchen. The clientele is loyal and Las Palmas has a great following.
Some of their more popular dishes inlclude Fajitas, the Las Palmas combo platter, Shrimp La Planxa, Burrito Suiza and of course their quacamole.
I had the pleasure of sampling the combo platter which had a cheese chile relleno, steak burrito and chimichanga which came with rice, beans and guacamole. I also had the cheesecake which was great.
I highly recommend Las Palmas for any occasion!!
Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant
1829 Wakegan Road
Glenview, IL 60025
Tel: 847-998-8700
http://www.laspalmasmexrst.com/
Showing posts with label Chicken. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chicken. Show all posts
Friday, June 18, 2010
Pakwaan: Morton Grove's Indian and Pakistani food destination
Pakwaan is owned and operated by the Sharif family who work together as a great team. The Mother is the chef (and an unbelievable one at that!!!), the son Razi is the manager and his brothers help in the paperwork, insurance and all of the other responsibilities that come along with running a successful operation. Their ingredients are hand picked from Devon Avenue and are all Zubiha Halal. The food is absolutely outstanding!!! It's so fresh and you can tell that it's absolutely homemade. Their clientele consists of people who come from all different walks of life including the Indian and Pakistani communities. The restaurant also caters and will soon be cooking for a 500 person wedding.
Some of their specialties include biryani which is rice and you can add in lamb, chicken, shrimp, vegetables or order it plain. They also offer Pakora, different types of Daal, Paneer, Samosas, Naan and desserts like Kalandri Kheer, Rabri, Double Ka Meetha, Gajar Halwa, Gulab Jamun and Milk Shakes.
Pakwaan also has an off premise catering insurance policy where they can cater events off site and with any item on the menu. Smartly, they have opened Subhan Zabiha Halal Meat Market right next door so you can shop for all of your Indian and Pakistani grocery items.
During Ramadan, they will offer a free Iftar and will also have items on the menu available for ordering.
Pakwaan will be be on GeoNews which is viewable on a Pakistani News Network.
I had the privlege and pleasure of trying the lamb biryani which is rice mixed with spices and lamb. I also tried the vegetable samosa which has mashed potato inside with spices and peas that is wrapped with a great flaky dough that is fried. Along with the vegetable samosa, I also tried the beef samosa which was flavorful, well cooked and would recommend it for any event. For dessert, I tried the Gulab Jamun which is a fried dough that floats in a syrup which was light and great for after dinner or lunch.
The Sharif's are a wonderful family who have an outstanding operation and food in Pakwaan and with Subhan. This is an oustanding restaurant run by some outstanding people.
Pakwaan Restaurant
7947 Golf Road
Morton Grove, Illinois 60053
Tel: 847-965-2422
Fax: 847-965-1018
Subhan
Zabiha Halal Meat Mart
7955 Golf Road
Morton Grove, Illinois 60053
Some of their specialties include biryani which is rice and you can add in lamb, chicken, shrimp, vegetables or order it plain. They also offer Pakora, different types of Daal, Paneer, Samosas, Naan and desserts like Kalandri Kheer, Rabri, Double Ka Meetha, Gajar Halwa, Gulab Jamun and Milk Shakes.
Pakwaan also has an off premise catering insurance policy where they can cater events off site and with any item on the menu. Smartly, they have opened Subhan Zabiha Halal Meat Market right next door so you can shop for all of your Indian and Pakistani grocery items.
During Ramadan, they will offer a free Iftar and will also have items on the menu available for ordering.
Pakwaan will be be on GeoNews which is viewable on a Pakistani News Network.
I had the privlege and pleasure of trying the lamb biryani which is rice mixed with spices and lamb. I also tried the vegetable samosa which has mashed potato inside with spices and peas that is wrapped with a great flaky dough that is fried. Along with the vegetable samosa, I also tried the beef samosa which was flavorful, well cooked and would recommend it for any event. For dessert, I tried the Gulab Jamun which is a fried dough that floats in a syrup which was light and great for after dinner or lunch.
The Sharif's are a wonderful family who have an outstanding operation and food in Pakwaan and with Subhan. This is an oustanding restaurant run by some outstanding people.
Pakwaan Restaurant
7947 Golf Road
Morton Grove, Illinois 60053
Tel: 847-965-2422
Fax: 847-965-1018
Subhan
Zabiha Halal Meat Mart
7955 Golf Road
Morton Grove, Illinois 60053
Thursday, June 10, 2010
The Charcoal Oven Restaurant: Golf Road's golden gem!!
The Charcoal Oven Restaurant (http://www.charcoalovenrestaurant.com/) was founded by Phillip Georgouses and is now enjoying an unbelievable resurgence under his daughter Maria and her husband Rich. Phil purchased this wonderful establishment after he returned from WWII and named it "The Charcoal Oven Restaurant (http://www.charcoalovenrestaurant.com/)". The concept is a supper club that has stood the test of time due to the incredible food, service, authenticity and cleanliness. Some of the menu items have changed with the differing and varying food tastes as time has evolved. Their menu consists of steaks, chops, fresh fish that comes every day, chicken, pistachio (a Greek lasagna), ribs and moussaka (a Greek meat and vegetable casserole) fresh salads with homemade dressings that are made by Sonja Carlson (a very long time waitress), fresh bread and their homemade cottage fries. All meals include a starter , salad, green vegetable, the entree and the cottage fries. All of the desserts are homemade and truly fresh.
This wonderful gem also has many different beers and wines which will be featured during various tastings in the near future. The tasting will allow the public to sample different flavors without having to order a full glass of either the different beers or wines.
Their clientele consists of third generation family members, families with kids and members of the Presbyterian Homes. Maria and Rich are very happy to report that their business is up and booming. Their customers have turned into family and friends which also helps to add to the environment and charm.
Maria and Rich want to thank all of their patrons and customers for their continued business and want to remind everyone that they always provide fresh food that is well made, never frozen and made with tender care.
This beautiful dining room can fit seventy people for any type of event but please call ahead so all of your needs are taken care of for a perfect party.
I had the pleasure of sampling the Greek lamb chops, salad with blue cheese which was outstanding, asparagus, warm bread, and cottage fries. All of these great offerings were so well flavored, homemade and cooked to absolute perfection. The portions are very plentiful and are flavorful, tasty and well made.
This is a wonderful destination for a supper club experience, dinner with the family, entertaining a client or for a very special event.
As Phil says: "You won't be disappointed!"
The Charcoal Oven Restaurant
4400 Golf Road
Skokie, IL 60076
T: 847 675-8062
http://www.charcoalovenrestaurant.com/
This wonderful gem also has many different beers and wines which will be featured during various tastings in the near future. The tasting will allow the public to sample different flavors without having to order a full glass of either the different beers or wines.
Their clientele consists of third generation family members, families with kids and members of the Presbyterian Homes. Maria and Rich are very happy to report that their business is up and booming. Their customers have turned into family and friends which also helps to add to the environment and charm.
Maria and Rich want to thank all of their patrons and customers for their continued business and want to remind everyone that they always provide fresh food that is well made, never frozen and made with tender care.
This beautiful dining room can fit seventy people for any type of event but please call ahead so all of your needs are taken care of for a perfect party.
I had the pleasure of sampling the Greek lamb chops, salad with blue cheese which was outstanding, asparagus, warm bread, and cottage fries. All of these great offerings were so well flavored, homemade and cooked to absolute perfection. The portions are very plentiful and are flavorful, tasty and well made.
This is a wonderful destination for a supper club experience, dinner with the family, entertaining a client or for a very special event.
As Phil says: "You won't be disappointed!"
The Charcoal Oven Restaurant
4400 Golf Road
Skokie, IL 60076
T: 847 675-8062
http://www.charcoalovenrestaurant.com/
Monday, June 7, 2010
Quizno's Subs in Glenview: DELICIOUS, friendly and clean!!!
Quizno's in Glenview is a great place to have a sandwich, chips, cookie and drink that will satisfy any hungry person. This location is owned by Anil and Nita Patel who have alot of experience in the food business and previously owned a convenient store. Quizno's offers everything from salads, sandwiches, soups, top line chips, cookies and outstanding soft drinks. This store is in a great location, is very clean and the food is fresh and of top quality. Quiznos will be offering a special of a small sandwich, chips and a drink for $2.99 from June 7th to June 20th. This offer is only good with a coupon that can be printed online at http://www.quiznos.com/. There are also trays of sandwiches that are available but you have to call ahead and arrange any catering orders.
Quizno's is a great option because of the vast offerings they have of all of their products.
I had the pleasure of sampling the Double Cheese Cheese steak, a bag of chips and a double chocolate chunk cookie. All of these selections were so tasty, fresh and hit the spot for a summer afternoon. The bread was very tender and well baked as was the cookie. The beef, cheese, onions and spread that was included were tasty and well seasoned. The sandwich was above great and I highly suggest it to everyone. The chips were from Lay and as usual, were tasty and very well put together.
This location is just a treat and great for grabbing a bite with a friend or bringing the kids after a game!!!
Quizno's Subs
1819 Waukegan Road
Glenview, IL 60025
Office: 847-724-0410
http://www.quiznos.com/
Quizno's is a great option because of the vast offerings they have of all of their products.
I had the pleasure of sampling the Double Cheese Cheese steak, a bag of chips and a double chocolate chunk cookie. All of these selections were so tasty, fresh and hit the spot for a summer afternoon. The bread was very tender and well baked as was the cookie. The beef, cheese, onions and spread that was included were tasty and well seasoned. The sandwich was above great and I highly suggest it to everyone. The chips were from Lay and as usual, were tasty and very well put together.
This location is just a treat and great for grabbing a bite with a friend or bringing the kids after a game!!!
Quizno's Subs
1819 Waukegan Road
Glenview, IL 60025
Office: 847-724-0410
http://www.quiznos.com/
Friday, June 4, 2010
Spiro's Deli: Glenview's destination for "The Bomber" and UNBELIEVABLE fries!!
Spiro's Delis is the creation of the Nestos family that arrived from Greece and achieved the American dream by opening this great destination in 1966. Peter, who is one of the sons, is the owner and has a wonderful staff to help him. This wonderful spot is the home to "The Bomber", which was named after a squadron and some unbelievable fries that are home made and will leave you dreaming about them for centuries. "The Bomber" consists of their own Italian Beef, a mayo spread, onions, pickles and an unbelievable bread that is just delectable. There is a doctor who orders "The Bomber" from Spiro's and is a "deal closer" for any business deal that might arise and needs to be closed. The Poor Boy, which is also popular, was started by Peter's grandmother with very simple cheeses and meat and has remained as a consistent item on their menu.
This wonderful place was started as a full service deli with meat, cheeses, lots of Greek sweets and other delicious items and is now a great fast food destination. The quality of their ingredients is #1 and is their top priority. They purchase their products from Cisco and United Food Service. The newest addition is their chicken pitas which are healthy and tasty. The menu includes unbelievable fries, gyros, burgers, hot dogs, Italian Sausage and a catering menu that is just out of this world. If you need to put in a catering order, they need twenty four hours notice to put he order together.
There are several defining factors that set Spiro's apart and those being the quality of their food and their customer service. They deliver their great food to various business in the loop and also have a wonderful catering service with a huge menu to pick from. Peter wants to thank the customers for 44 years of patronizing their wonderful business. They have the most hardworking and loyal clientele on the North Shore of Chicago.
Spiro's Deli is a must go to destination in Glenview and the North Shore. Peter and his staff are very hospitable, the food is unbelievable and you can eat off the floors. Enjoy!!!
Spiro's Deli
1210 Waukegan Road
Glenview, Illinois 60025
T: 847-729-6650
F: 847-729-6657
http://www.spirosdeli.com/
M-F: 9:30am - 7pm
Sat: 9:30am - 6pm
Sunday: 11am - 4 pm
This wonderful place was started as a full service deli with meat, cheeses, lots of Greek sweets and other delicious items and is now a great fast food destination. The quality of their ingredients is #1 and is their top priority. They purchase their products from Cisco and United Food Service. The newest addition is their chicken pitas which are healthy and tasty. The menu includes unbelievable fries, gyros, burgers, hot dogs, Italian Sausage and a catering menu that is just out of this world. If you need to put in a catering order, they need twenty four hours notice to put he order together.
There are several defining factors that set Spiro's apart and those being the quality of their food and their customer service. They deliver their great food to various business in the loop and also have a wonderful catering service with a huge menu to pick from. Peter wants to thank the customers for 44 years of patronizing their wonderful business. They have the most hardworking and loyal clientele on the North Shore of Chicago.
Spiro's Deli is a must go to destination in Glenview and the North Shore. Peter and his staff are very hospitable, the food is unbelievable and you can eat off the floors. Enjoy!!!
Spiro's Deli
1210 Waukegan Road
Glenview, Illinois 60025
T: 847-729-6650
F: 847-729-6657
http://www.spirosdeli.com/
M-F: 9:30am - 7pm
Sat: 9:30am - 6pm
Sunday: 11am - 4 pm
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Francesco's Hole in the Wall: A true Italian Trattoria on the North Shore
His journey through the restaurant world made stops at Milano’s which was run by his parents on State and Division Street in the gold coast of Chicago, IL when he was thirteen years old. His grandfather was the original Papa Milano and was famous in Chicago for years. Some of the duties that he carried out were that of a bus boy and he also washed dishes and he really learned the business from the bottom up. The next restaurant that he worked in was Papa Milano's in Rogers Park that was owned by his parents which was followed by another restaurant in Lincolnwood called Gallo's and then he owned Francesco's Hole in the Wall (http://www.francescosholeinthewall.com/) which is also managed by his daughter Lucy Gallo.
Francesco's Hole in the Wall is a trattoria that is rooted in Neapolitan cooking with a slight Northern Italian influence. His inspiration for his restaurant is from his own family. Frank has also started a pasta sauce business that's in twenty eight states in upscale markets.
All of their ingredients are fresh and some are imported. Frank gets some of his desserts and pastas from Italy and all the other ingredients are local. Some of their most popular dishes are osso bucco, chicken Vesuvio, rigatoni with sausage and arugula, veal ala marsala, chicken ala siciliana and Chilean Sea Bass. The restaurant offers beer, wine and spirits but they do not have a fully stocked beer. The wine selection is elegant and truly upscale.
Their best method of marketing is word of mouth and they also have a wonderful website.
This destination is set apart from the other Italian destinations in Chicago and the North Shore because they serve specialty dishes such as stuffed peppers with veal over pasta. This is a dish that other Italian eateries don't serve a specialty such as stuffed peppers. They also have fish and fish salads that are very delicately made and put together with such care and very meticulous approach. Their cooking is home style and when you walk through the doors and through the kitchen, you feel like you are in someone's home. When sitting down with Frank he said "I cook from the heart." He tells other people "The aroma is great. You have to try this!!".
The restaurant is very clean and so is the kitchen. Their ingredients are very very fresh and everything is made to order. They offer specialty dishes that no one else does.
I was able to sample rigatoni in a tomato sauce with a meatball that was covered with melted cheese which was just divine. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the tomato sauce and cheese were so authentic and the meatball was very very tasty. I highly recommend it for anyone who would like to venture in to partake of this great dish.
Francesco's Hole in the wall is a very very special place and is a wonderful place to take your family or business party.
Their hours are as follows:
Lunch
Mon, Wed-Thu 11:30am-2:00pm
Fri 11:30am-2:15pm
Dinner
Mon, Wed-Thu 5:00pm-9:15pm
Fri, Sat 5:00pm-10:15pm
Sun 4:00pm-8:45pm
They are closed on Tuesday's.
Francesco’s Hole in the Wall
245 Skokie Boulevard
Northbrook , Illinois 60062
Telephone: 847-272-0155
http://www.francescosholeinthewall.com/
Valley Lodge of Glenview: The Northshore's best Burger and Ribs
The Valley Lodge is Glenview's great destination for wonderful ribs, a great burger, a solid carrot cake and some wonderful other delights that are offered such as salads, pasta and outstanding steaks.
Bill Stavrou, who presently is the owner for the last five years, has a wonderful neighborhood following and offers an American Grill cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. They have solid comfort food such as steaks, chops, burgers, salads, pasta, sandwiches and a wonderful carrot cake that is dynamic.
Their products are sourced from vendors that they've utilized for the last 41 years. The products and ingredients are incredibly fresh and high quality is very important to them.
Their business is very established, are involved with alot of community events and are members of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce. They are very active in the community whether it's an event or different group that's having a function.
They also offer some catering, carry out and have some large corporate accounts.
Their more popular dishes include the ribs and the burgers. The seafood selection is superb and flown in from both the East and West coasts. They also serve some of the lake fishes which are fresh and well prepared.
They also offer catering have some corporate accounts that they have serviced. They also offer a kids menu for their younger guests.
This is a casual neighborhood place with exceptional food that's fresh and served by a friendly staff which and these are the keys to their success. In addition, their price point is mid range and remains pretty constant. A good price and wonderful value are also part of their formula.
I had the opportunity to sample the ribs and carrot cake which were both exceptional. The ribs were moist and the sauce was very well seasoned and had a good consistency. The carrot cake was very moist topped with a cream cheese frosting and the cake was covered in walnuts that were fresh. This delight did not disappoint and I highly recommend after you finish your meal.
Valley Lodge is a great stop for lunch and dinner and offer fresh products and ingredients at a good price served by a friendly wait staff.
Valley Lodge
2132 Waukegan Road
Glenview, IL 60025-1718
(847) 724-7440
Bill Stavrou, who presently is the owner for the last five years, has a wonderful neighborhood following and offers an American Grill cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. They have solid comfort food such as steaks, chops, burgers, salads, pasta, sandwiches and a wonderful carrot cake that is dynamic.
Their products are sourced from vendors that they've utilized for the last 41 years. The products and ingredients are incredibly fresh and high quality is very important to them.
Their business is very established, are involved with alot of community events and are members of the Glenview Chamber of Commerce. They are very active in the community whether it's an event or different group that's having a function.
They also offer some catering, carry out and have some large corporate accounts.
Their more popular dishes include the ribs and the burgers. The seafood selection is superb and flown in from both the East and West coasts. They also serve some of the lake fishes which are fresh and well prepared.
They also offer catering have some corporate accounts that they have serviced. They also offer a kids menu for their younger guests.
This is a casual neighborhood place with exceptional food that's fresh and served by a friendly staff which and these are the keys to their success. In addition, their price point is mid range and remains pretty constant. A good price and wonderful value are also part of their formula.
I had the opportunity to sample the ribs and carrot cake which were both exceptional. The ribs were moist and the sauce was very well seasoned and had a good consistency. The carrot cake was very moist topped with a cream cheese frosting and the cake was covered in walnuts that were fresh. This delight did not disappoint and I highly recommend after you finish your meal.
Valley Lodge is a great stop for lunch and dinner and offer fresh products and ingredients at a good price served by a friendly wait staff.
Valley Lodge
2132 Waukegan Road
Glenview, IL 60025-1718
(847) 724-7440
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Corner Bakery: Sandwiches, Salads, Sweets, Catering and a great love for community
Corner Bakery Cafe (http://www.cornerbakery.com/), which is part of Il Fornaio Restaurant Corp (spun off from Brinker in 2006), is a fast casual restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner to guests in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, El Paso, Houston, Jackson, Miss., Los Angeles/Orange County, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, San Diego, and Washington D.C. and offers Free Wifi which brings a great warmth to their environment. Joe Digangi is one of the manager's for the organization and has been in the food business since 1991 when he got his start at Fuddrucker's and worked as a line cook, butcher, cashier and baker. His journey took him to other restaurants and then he finally got his degree in economics and finance and has landed as a very high level manager.
All of the products and ingredients are sourced from the main office in Dallas. They also do offer local produce and have done promotions where they offer a sandwich like a Bacon Bacon Local Tomatoes and source the tomatoes from local growers and farmers.
They are in complete growth mode and have been affected by the economy, however, the company is in functioning in a positive sales mode and growing every day.
They have great employees and are always searching for people who are very hard working and can connect with suburban guests. They look at people with all different types of experiences.
For six months every year, they have a window where they change up their menu items and offer alot of different variety.
Their approach to their catering is much more professional than their competitors. Their employees are in a uniform and they travel in a refrigerated truck when the platters of food are delivered to the clients. They offer great value for their portions. They also offer ALOT of different options that are very healthy and calorie conscious.
The company is very involved in community events and it's a wonderful way for them to market their products and goods. They have donated bottled water and food to various events such as a walk or run for charity. It's a win win opportunity where they help other community organizations but also market their brand in order to build their own business. They also have had sweet baskets delivered for teachers and offer opportunities to treat the teachers and their friends. They have also delivered their bottled water to local health clubs and wellness facilities. They really do give back to the community around them and have become apart of their community.
I had the pleasure of sampling the chopped salad which was so fresh and came in a very plentiful size. The cheese, bacon, chicken and vegetables were really crisp. I also sampled the Chicken Pesto Sandwich which had chicken right off the bird and tomatoes that came right out of the garden. To make it complete, I also had a cheesecake brownie which not as dense as you would think. It was really moist and the cheesecake portion on top was put together in a very delicate manner. The chocolate was of a really high quality.
I really recommend Corner Bakery for your next salad, sandwich, sweet or catering stop!!!!!
To Locate a Corner Bakery near you
http://www.cornerbakerycafe.com/Locations.aspx
Corner Bakery: Main Home Page
http://www.cornerbakery.com/
All of the products and ingredients are sourced from the main office in Dallas. They also do offer local produce and have done promotions where they offer a sandwich like a Bacon Bacon Local Tomatoes and source the tomatoes from local growers and farmers.
They are in complete growth mode and have been affected by the economy, however, the company is in functioning in a positive sales mode and growing every day.
They have great employees and are always searching for people who are very hard working and can connect with suburban guests. They look at people with all different types of experiences.
For six months every year, they have a window where they change up their menu items and offer alot of different variety.
Their approach to their catering is much more professional than their competitors. Their employees are in a uniform and they travel in a refrigerated truck when the platters of food are delivered to the clients. They offer great value for their portions. They also offer ALOT of different options that are very healthy and calorie conscious.
The company is very involved in community events and it's a wonderful way for them to market their products and goods. They have donated bottled water and food to various events such as a walk or run for charity. It's a win win opportunity where they help other community organizations but also market their brand in order to build their own business. They also have had sweet baskets delivered for teachers and offer opportunities to treat the teachers and their friends. They have also delivered their bottled water to local health clubs and wellness facilities. They really do give back to the community around them and have become apart of their community.
I had the pleasure of sampling the chopped salad which was so fresh and came in a very plentiful size. The cheese, bacon, chicken and vegetables were really crisp. I also sampled the Chicken Pesto Sandwich which had chicken right off the bird and tomatoes that came right out of the garden. To make it complete, I also had a cheesecake brownie which not as dense as you would think. It was really moist and the cheesecake portion on top was put together in a very delicate manner. The chocolate was of a really high quality.
I really recommend Corner Bakery for your next salad, sandwich, sweet or catering stop!!!!!
To Locate a Corner Bakery near you
http://www.cornerbakerycafe.com/Locations.aspx
Corner Bakery: Main Home Page
http://www.cornerbakery.com/
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Zingarella: Glenview's Gourmet, Friendly and Very Tasty Cafe
Bonnie Brock got her start in the food world by being exposed to both of her grandmothers' cooking and learned the best way any kid can, in your grandma's kitchen. She was very lucky to have had one grandmother who is Polish and one who is Italian. She had gone to Europe to sing opera for a while and when she returned she decided to open a great cafe and restaurant and that's how Zingarella was born. In addition to being a wonderful opera singer, entrepreneur, and chef, she is also a dietician which adds an informative component to the food preperation and planning of the meals and services that are offered to her clientele.
Zingarella (http://www.zingarella.com) has been open for three years and the inspiration for the restaurant was bringing back the foods from Europe. The geographic area of Glenview and its diversity of people is a great inspiration for the restaurant and its menu. Each week they honor a different country and cuisine. One week could be German, one week could be Italian and the next week could be Austrian.
Bonnie purchases her produce, when in season during the summer, at the Wagner and Northbrook Farmer's Market and during the winter purchases from some of the top notch vendors in the business. She's also a vendor in both markets and buys produce from other vendors, bakes pies and then returns to sell them in the markets. She's also very attuned and informed about sustainable seafood and only utilizes the fish that is wild and healthy. She uses free range chicken and grass fed beef. She's very conscientious about what type of products she's using in her cooking and how her customers are being fed.
Zingarella has been especially kind and thoughtful to the educators in the community. 1500 coupons have been printed for the teachers at Glenbrook South when the arrive at school for their first of school. They also have done alot of parties and office gatherings for the surrounding businesses and doctors offices in the area.
Some of the future plans for Zingarella's include doing some remodeling which includes expanding the bar and bakery area and build a little cooking school. The Cooking school would feature Bonnie and ten other students that would cook together and learn from one another. There is also a book club that has approximately 60 people that meets once a month. They read the assigned chapters and then have meal based on the theme of the book whether it's the American South, France, Ireland, or other themes. Bonnie enjoys a small environment with just a few people so everyone can get together and learn from one another.
Their most popular dish is carrot cake and was just featured in the North Shore Magazine. The recipe for the cake came from Tulane University where Bonnie spent some time while doing some of her education. She enjoys scouring markets and cookbooks for new recipes and ideas.
The customer base consists of women for lunch and dinner consists of alot of couples that are both older and younger. The customers are a great mix of the neighborhood community. The customer base consists of a broad spectrum. They have take out service daily and every night they have complete meals from bread, salad entree, vegetable and dessert that are available for families that range from two people and up. A mom can come in and pick up an order and be out in ten minutes.
They offer a wonderful kids menu and also have a gingerbread decorating club in addition to a cupcake decorating class. Each child has their own station and can do their decorating. A story that was relayed was that one young gentleman was having so much fun with his frosting that he started squirting it towards the ceiling.
Zingarella is capable of providing alot of different services for parties and functions that also include a great sweet table of treats. They also do appetizers for different functions and parties. They enjoy putting together events for many various and different groups.
Bonnie appreciates and offers a non-corporate environment. They give personal attention and the feeling of being part of a community in addition to the owner knowing your likes, dislikes, allergies and other preferences.
There are also separate items for diabetic and gluten free guests. Bonnie is in the store all the time and mentioned "It's been a very enjoyable experience being in Glenview".
I had the pleasure and privilege of sampling the vegetable quiche, pasta salad with tomatoes and feta cheese, a chicken salad sandwich with chips, a wonderful couscous, a sampling of cookies and a very delicate pear cake with mousse. All of these items were so very carefully prepared and were cooked with perfection. None missed the mark in terms of perfection and preparation. The flavors and textures were perfectly selected. The Pear Mousse Cake was just absolutely out of this world. This was well done because the pears were very delicate and sweet and the cake and frosting were very delicate.
I highly recommend Zingarella and all of their wonderful food delights and outstanding services.
Zingarella
2300 Lehigh Ave
Glenview, IL 60026 US
(847) 657-0707
http://www.zingarella.com/
Zingarella (http://www.zingarella.com) has been open for three years and the inspiration for the restaurant was bringing back the foods from Europe. The geographic area of Glenview and its diversity of people is a great inspiration for the restaurant and its menu. Each week they honor a different country and cuisine. One week could be German, one week could be Italian and the next week could be Austrian.
Bonnie purchases her produce, when in season during the summer, at the Wagner and Northbrook Farmer's Market and during the winter purchases from some of the top notch vendors in the business. She's also a vendor in both markets and buys produce from other vendors, bakes pies and then returns to sell them in the markets. She's also very attuned and informed about sustainable seafood and only utilizes the fish that is wild and healthy. She uses free range chicken and grass fed beef. She's very conscientious about what type of products she's using in her cooking and how her customers are being fed.
Zingarella has been especially kind and thoughtful to the educators in the community. 1500 coupons have been printed for the teachers at Glenbrook South when the arrive at school for their first of school. They also have done alot of parties and office gatherings for the surrounding businesses and doctors offices in the area.
Some of the future plans for Zingarella's include doing some remodeling which includes expanding the bar and bakery area and build a little cooking school. The Cooking school would feature Bonnie and ten other students that would cook together and learn from one another. There is also a book club that has approximately 60 people that meets once a month. They read the assigned chapters and then have meal based on the theme of the book whether it's the American South, France, Ireland, or other themes. Bonnie enjoys a small environment with just a few people so everyone can get together and learn from one another.
Their most popular dish is carrot cake and was just featured in the North Shore Magazine. The recipe for the cake came from Tulane University where Bonnie spent some time while doing some of her education. She enjoys scouring markets and cookbooks for new recipes and ideas.
The customer base consists of women for lunch and dinner consists of alot of couples that are both older and younger. The customers are a great mix of the neighborhood community. The customer base consists of a broad spectrum. They have take out service daily and every night they have complete meals from bread, salad entree, vegetable and dessert that are available for families that range from two people and up. A mom can come in and pick up an order and be out in ten minutes.
They offer a wonderful kids menu and also have a gingerbread decorating club in addition to a cupcake decorating class. Each child has their own station and can do their decorating. A story that was relayed was that one young gentleman was having so much fun with his frosting that he started squirting it towards the ceiling.
Zingarella is capable of providing alot of different services for parties and functions that also include a great sweet table of treats. They also do appetizers for different functions and parties. They enjoy putting together events for many various and different groups.
Bonnie appreciates and offers a non-corporate environment. They give personal attention and the feeling of being part of a community in addition to the owner knowing your likes, dislikes, allergies and other preferences.
There are also separate items for diabetic and gluten free guests. Bonnie is in the store all the time and mentioned "It's been a very enjoyable experience being in Glenview".
I had the pleasure and privilege of sampling the vegetable quiche, pasta salad with tomatoes and feta cheese, a chicken salad sandwich with chips, a wonderful couscous, a sampling of cookies and a very delicate pear cake with mousse. All of these items were so very carefully prepared and were cooked with perfection. None missed the mark in terms of perfection and preparation. The flavors and textures were perfectly selected. The Pear Mousse Cake was just absolutely out of this world. This was well done because the pears were very delicate and sweet and the cake and frosting were very delicate.
I highly recommend Zingarella and all of their wonderful food delights and outstanding services.
Zingarella
2300 Lehigh Ave
Glenview, IL 60026 US
(847) 657-0707
http://www.zingarella.com/
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Depot Nuevo and The Noodle Cafe: Two great eating destinations
Rob Garrison comes from a small business family and was presented with the opportunity to buy a restaurant from a friend who was in the process of selling and that's how the Noodle Cafe got it's start. The Noodle Cafe resembled a restaurant that he and his wife Ann had dined at in Evanston, IL. Depot Nuevo was another idea that had come along from a Graduate School project when he was attending Northwestern University's Kellogg Graduate School of Management in Evanston, IL.
Their inspiration for their menu comes form the winding down of the Glenview, IL location of The Noodle Cafe when they featured a latin inspired menu for the last three months. Their products and ingredients are sourced from some of the most elite suppliers in the state and country especially for their clientele.
The marketing campaign consists of word of mouth (which is a great way to market) and web pages for both The Noodle Cafe (http://www.thenoodlecafe.com/) and for Depot Nuevo (http://www.depotnuevo.com/) that are both very informative and also offer opt in email. They have a facebook page and also have a Twitter Account. They also do special events that are included in their Facebook and Twitter communications. They are also involved with print advertising and screen ads in the movie theaters. In the past, they have also offered half price specials.
A great fundraiser and business development idea that's been implemented is a "Celebrity Bar Tender" Evening where a celebrity comes and bar tends for the evening and half of the money that is made on drinks only is given to the charity of the evening.
The future of Depot Nuevo and The Noodle Cafe consists of quality establishments running at top and maximum functioning.
Rob and the chef are trying to do a mix of traditional Mexican menu mixed with new dishes. Their moto is “ Let’s make things more modern and not get stuck with something old”. The food evolves over time and they are trying to have comfortable food. Their goal is to be modern and not get stuck in the past.
They’re able to pull people from the surrounding suburbs and the surrounding area that adds to their clientele list.
New concepts that MIGHT be on the horizon are foods and flavors form Louisiana or possibly South Korea.
The freshness and quality of their food is very high and goes beyond expectation. All of their cooking is from scratch and freshly made. They concentrate on taste, friendly service and friendliness. The goal is to serve great food by great people in an immaculate environment.
This writer sampled very tasty chips, a red salsa, a green salsa, duck enchiladas and Mexican steak that was accompanied by mashed potatoes and great green beans that were cooked to perfection.
Depot Nuevo
1139 Wilmette Avenue
Wilmette, IL 60091
Tel: 847-251-3111
http://www.depotnuevo.com/
The Noodle Cafe
708 Twelfth Street
Wilmette, IL 60091
ph. 847-251-2228
fax. 847-251-2299
http://www.thenoodlecafe.com/
Their inspiration for their menu comes form the winding down of the Glenview, IL location of The Noodle Cafe when they featured a latin inspired menu for the last three months. Their products and ingredients are sourced from some of the most elite suppliers in the state and country especially for their clientele.
The marketing campaign consists of word of mouth (which is a great way to market) and web pages for both The Noodle Cafe (http://www.thenoodlecafe.com/) and for Depot Nuevo (http://www.depotnuevo.com/) that are both very informative and also offer opt in email. They have a facebook page and also have a Twitter Account. They also do special events that are included in their Facebook and Twitter communications. They are also involved with print advertising and screen ads in the movie theaters. In the past, they have also offered half price specials.
A great fundraiser and business development idea that's been implemented is a "Celebrity Bar Tender" Evening where a celebrity comes and bar tends for the evening and half of the money that is made on drinks only is given to the charity of the evening.
The future of Depot Nuevo and The Noodle Cafe consists of quality establishments running at top and maximum functioning.
Rob and the chef are trying to do a mix of traditional Mexican menu mixed with new dishes. Their moto is “ Let’s make things more modern and not get stuck with something old”. The food evolves over time and they are trying to have comfortable food. Their goal is to be modern and not get stuck in the past.
They’re able to pull people from the surrounding suburbs and the surrounding area that adds to their clientele list.
New concepts that MIGHT be on the horizon are foods and flavors form Louisiana or possibly South Korea.
The freshness and quality of their food is very high and goes beyond expectation. All of their cooking is from scratch and freshly made. They concentrate on taste, friendly service and friendliness. The goal is to serve great food by great people in an immaculate environment.
This writer sampled very tasty chips, a red salsa, a green salsa, duck enchiladas and Mexican steak that was accompanied by mashed potatoes and great green beans that were cooked to perfection.
Depot Nuevo
1139 Wilmette Avenue
Wilmette, IL 60091
Tel: 847-251-3111
http://www.depotnuevo.com/
The Noodle Cafe
708 Twelfth Street
Wilmette, IL 60091
ph. 847-251-2228
fax. 847-251-2299
http://www.thenoodlecafe.com/
fRedhots in Glenview: Chicago's answer to a great dog (in many forms)
fRedhots in Glenview got it's start after Fred Markoff had worked for others in the food business for more than twenty years. He had always dreamed of having his own business and that's how fRedhots got its wonderful start. This establishment is a great edition to Glenview's culinary dining options.
The inspiration for their menu was a hot dog style restaurant that’s above the rest and that's exactly what fRedhots is all about. Hot Doug’s has been an inspiration for Fred and Sharon who is his wife. When he was doing his market research, the evidence indicated that everyone wanted something that is above all the other hot dog joints in the area. So armed with that knowledge, hey taste tested all of the products and picked the very best with the highest quality meats.
fRedhots offers Reindeer from Alaska, Alligator from Louisiana and other gourmet products from Chicago. Chicago has almost everything on a regular basis and they also go into other markets to purchase products that are more exotic.
Their customer base consists of a strong local community base. They have alot of business people and families that frequent their establishment for lunch. There are alot of kids and a great "kid friendly" menu. There are also alot of "foodies" (people who really appreciate good food). People who like quality and unique food come from far and wide to eat these wonderful hot dog creations. They have alot of regular customers and alot of people who come from the surrounding suburbs. fRedhots is listed on Yelp and Chowhound and Sharon always responds to others who post on yelp. They do a great job of making the customer happy and any issues that arise are always addressed as quickly as possible.
Fred and Sharon are always trying new ideas, concepts and make changes to the menu to keep their offering fresh and different. The Supplier brings new things and if Fred thinks that the item will sell he's more than happy to add it to the menu. They have sucessfully managed to weather the downturn of the economy but still continue to grow. They brought down their prices of hot dogs and fries which is a great help to the customer. They are plans to expand the restaurant's physical space and and then they will be able to expand their menu. They do offer chicken sandwiches from time to time and have done so in a varity of different styles. Have a seasonal specials like a vege special for summer and reindeer for Christmas. They also offer fun items like Corned Beef dog and Reuben sausage as a change up. They also run an October feast menu from Mid September through October. They diligently update their website and the fan page on Facebook is always up to date. Their fans get their postings right away.
Pat Bruno of the Sun Times said that "fRed Hots and Fries is not only good food or clean as a pin." Fred and Sharon spend the extra time that it takes to make their food taste of the highest quality and create and maintain and environment that is absolutely immaculate. The fryers are scrubbed every single day and use Canola blend oil with cotton seed. They use the highest quality oil for cooking and frying.
They also cater to vegetarians and offer five or six items. Fred cooks a healthy moist patty with chunks of veges with bread crumbs. There are several different salads and also service Bison and Buffalo. All of the customers are served by name when the order is taken at the register. This is a truly a very friendly business and a great destination.
They also do charity events where twenty percent of the proceeds are donated to the charity of the day. So for expample, if your charity would like to do an event, the event is advertised and publicized and anyone who comes in and says that there from the charity that is raising money, twenty percent of all the sales from all the various people who come to support the event goes back to the organiztaion. The kids love this type of event.
For the future, they're searching for investment so they can open other locations in other states.
The menu offerings are wide and varied such as Chipotle Turkey club sandwich on toasted French roll, a finished bbq beef and frites and spicy thai aioli sauce that comes with the fries/frites.
There are alot of different types of chicken sausage that are offered and an Italian Debris Meat sandwich which is all of th debris that's left over form the Italian Beef that is boiled down (including the seasonsings) and put into sandwich form that is accompanied by french fries on top with BBQ sauce and Merks Cheddar Cheese. Truly a treat for any day.
The fries are a signature item and this is what makes fRedhots stand apart from their competition. The potatoes are cooked using a Belgium method which means that they are heavly washed, twice cooked once at a lower temp when their 2/3 done and fried again right before they are served. The dipping sauce include: Garlic Aioli, Wasabi Aioli, Chipotle Aioli, Spicy Thai Aioli, Artichoke Aioli, Basil Pesto Aioli, Sweet Chipotle (No Mayo), Tomato Curry Sauce (No Mayo) Sweet Red Pepper Garlic Aioli, Spicy Mustard Dill Aioli, and Green Onion Sage Aioli. They also offer Merkts Soft Cheddar Fries, Chili or Nacho Cheese to put over the Fries. They also have Garlic Fries which are fries that are tosed in garlic butter. The fries are just an absolutely treat.
I had the pleasure of sampling the smoked salmon fRedhot with Fries/Frites and I chose the artichoke aioli and pesto aioli which were both just suburb. This Greek girl also sampled the Gyros Hot Dog which is made up of lamb and beef seasoned with all the traditional gyros seasoning and fRedhots just hit it out of the park. I felt like I was over at "The Works" on Golf Road eating a Gyros.
fRedhots has been featured in Chicago Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun Times, Hungry Hound Channel 7 ABC, North Shore Magazine, Glenview Announcements, Daily Herald, Zagat Rated, Yelp.com and LTHForum.com GNR (Great Neighborhood Restaurant).
fRedhots is a very special place with great offerings, great sauces, wonderful fries and the cleanest restaurant on the North Shore that would make any housekeeper jealous. This is a GREAT place for kids and families.
fRedhots
http://www.fredhots.com/
1707 Chestnut Avenue
Glenview, IL 60025
Phone: 847-657-9200
fredhots_fries@sbcglobal.com
The inspiration for their menu was a hot dog style restaurant that’s above the rest and that's exactly what fRedhots is all about. Hot Doug’s has been an inspiration for Fred and Sharon who is his wife. When he was doing his market research, the evidence indicated that everyone wanted something that is above all the other hot dog joints in the area. So armed with that knowledge, hey taste tested all of the products and picked the very best with the highest quality meats.
fRedhots offers Reindeer from Alaska, Alligator from Louisiana and other gourmet products from Chicago. Chicago has almost everything on a regular basis and they also go into other markets to purchase products that are more exotic.
Their customer base consists of a strong local community base. They have alot of business people and families that frequent their establishment for lunch. There are alot of kids and a great "kid friendly" menu. There are also alot of "foodies" (people who really appreciate good food). People who like quality and unique food come from far and wide to eat these wonderful hot dog creations. They have alot of regular customers and alot of people who come from the surrounding suburbs. fRedhots is listed on Yelp and Chowhound and Sharon always responds to others who post on yelp. They do a great job of making the customer happy and any issues that arise are always addressed as quickly as possible.
Fred and Sharon are always trying new ideas, concepts and make changes to the menu to keep their offering fresh and different. The Supplier brings new things and if Fred thinks that the item will sell he's more than happy to add it to the menu. They have sucessfully managed to weather the downturn of the economy but still continue to grow. They brought down their prices of hot dogs and fries which is a great help to the customer. They are plans to expand the restaurant's physical space and and then they will be able to expand their menu. They do offer chicken sandwiches from time to time and have done so in a varity of different styles. Have a seasonal specials like a vege special for summer and reindeer for Christmas. They also offer fun items like Corned Beef dog and Reuben sausage as a change up. They also run an October feast menu from Mid September through October. They diligently update their website and the fan page on Facebook is always up to date. Their fans get their postings right away.
Pat Bruno of the Sun Times said that "fRed Hots and Fries is not only good food or clean as a pin." Fred and Sharon spend the extra time that it takes to make their food taste of the highest quality and create and maintain and environment that is absolutely immaculate. The fryers are scrubbed every single day and use Canola blend oil with cotton seed. They use the highest quality oil for cooking and frying.
They also cater to vegetarians and offer five or six items. Fred cooks a healthy moist patty with chunks of veges with bread crumbs. There are several different salads and also service Bison and Buffalo. All of the customers are served by name when the order is taken at the register. This is a truly a very friendly business and a great destination.
They also do charity events where twenty percent of the proceeds are donated to the charity of the day. So for expample, if your charity would like to do an event, the event is advertised and publicized and anyone who comes in and says that there from the charity that is raising money, twenty percent of all the sales from all the various people who come to support the event goes back to the organiztaion. The kids love this type of event.
For the future, they're searching for investment so they can open other locations in other states.
The menu offerings are wide and varied such as Chipotle Turkey club sandwich on toasted French roll, a finished bbq beef and frites and spicy thai aioli sauce that comes with the fries/frites.
There are alot of different types of chicken sausage that are offered and an Italian Debris Meat sandwich which is all of th debris that's left over form the Italian Beef that is boiled down (including the seasonsings) and put into sandwich form that is accompanied by french fries on top with BBQ sauce and Merks Cheddar Cheese. Truly a treat for any day.
The fries are a signature item and this is what makes fRedhots stand apart from their competition. The potatoes are cooked using a Belgium method which means that they are heavly washed, twice cooked once at a lower temp when their 2/3 done and fried again right before they are served. The dipping sauce include: Garlic Aioli, Wasabi Aioli, Chipotle Aioli, Spicy Thai Aioli, Artichoke Aioli, Basil Pesto Aioli, Sweet Chipotle (No Mayo), Tomato Curry Sauce (No Mayo) Sweet Red Pepper Garlic Aioli, Spicy Mustard Dill Aioli, and Green Onion Sage Aioli. They also offer Merkts Soft Cheddar Fries, Chili or Nacho Cheese to put over the Fries. They also have Garlic Fries which are fries that are tosed in garlic butter. The fries are just an absolutely treat.
I had the pleasure of sampling the smoked salmon fRedhot with Fries/Frites and I chose the artichoke aioli and pesto aioli which were both just suburb. This Greek girl also sampled the Gyros Hot Dog which is made up of lamb and beef seasoned with all the traditional gyros seasoning and fRedhots just hit it out of the park. I felt like I was over at "The Works" on Golf Road eating a Gyros.
fRedhots has been featured in Chicago Magazine, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun Times, Hungry Hound Channel 7 ABC, North Shore Magazine, Glenview Announcements, Daily Herald, Zagat Rated, Yelp.com and LTHForum.com GNR (Great Neighborhood Restaurant).
fRedhots is a very special place with great offerings, great sauces, wonderful fries and the cleanest restaurant on the North Shore that would make any housekeeper jealous. This is a GREAT place for kids and families.
fRedhots
http://www.fredhots.com/
1707 Chestnut Avenue
Glenview, IL 60025
Phone: 847-657-9200
fredhots_fries@sbcglobal.com
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Taco Burrito King: Chicago's Premier Fast Casual Mexican Food
Taco Burrito King (http://www.tacoburritoking.com/) got its start when Carolos Lamas decided to open a burrito shop on Harlem and Belmont and was joined by his brother Uriel Lamas who then went and blossomed the business that resulted in the growth of more stores. Taco Burrito King is completely family owned.
The inspiration for their menu is authentic Mexican food and all the recipes are from the Lamas family. Their Touhy location is opened seven days a week, twenty four hours a day and the drive thru is open from 6am to 4am.
They have a wonderful website which is available for ordering and browsing.
Taco Burrito King does do catering such as weddings and baptisms and are available to do any occasions. They also cater office parties.
The quality and taste of their products is very important and the food is made fresh daily. They manufacture their own chorizo which has a lot of different spices.
Taco Burrito King offers good food and fast service and is kept in wonderful condition. The tables, floors and kitchen were very very clean.
I had the pleasure of sampling the quacamole which was chunky and refreshing. The avocados, tomatoes, cilantro and chips were very fresh and authentic.
The combination plate included one taco and I choose the pork taco, a tamale and a quesadilla which were all very authentic well cooked, tender, well seasoned and a delight with the tomato, lettuce and sour cream that accompanied it in addition to rice and beans.
The Flauta plate included three chicken flautas and included, rice, beans, lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream.
The Rice and beans are not your typical Mexican Rice and beans. The Lamas have really put alot of work into fixing two very delicate and well done traditional Mexican side dishes. The prices are very reasonable and it's a wdonerful visit.
Taco Burrito King
http://www.tacoburritoking.com/
Harlem & Belmont
3216 N Harlem
Chicago, IL 60634
T: (773) 637-3200
Sunday - Thursday: 8am - 4am
Friday & Saturday: 8am - 6am
Harlem & Montrose
4427 N Harlem
Norridge, IL 60706
T: (708) 457-0457
Daily: 9am - Midnight
Harlem & Higgins
5509 N Harlem
Chicago, IL 60656
T: (773) 467-0692
Daily: Open 24 hours
Belmont & Long
5413 W Belmont
Chicago, IL 60641
T: (773) 777-6200
Sunday - Thursday: 8am - 4am
Friday & Saturday: 8am - 6am
North & Natchez
6518 W North Avenue
Chicago, IL 60707
T: (773) 637-2111
Sunday - Thursday: 10am - 2am
Friday & Saturday: 10am - 5am
Greek Town
811 W Jackson
Chicago, IL 60607
T: (312) 831-0633
Daily: Open 24 hours
Alsip
12201 S Pulaski
Alsip, IL 60803
T: (708) 388-3400
Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5am
Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Channahon
23836 W Eames
Channahon, IL 60410
T: (815) 467-4300
Monday - Thursday: 6am - 11pm
Friday & Saturday: 6am - Midnight
Sunday: 9am - 11pm
Niles
6701 W Touhy
Niles, IL 60714
T: (847) 600-0404
Daily: Open 24 hours
The HIP
Harlem Irving Plaza Food Court
4148 N Harlem
Norridge IL. 60706
T: (708) 452-3200
http://www.tacoburritoking.com/
The inspiration for their menu is authentic Mexican food and all the recipes are from the Lamas family. Their Touhy location is opened seven days a week, twenty four hours a day and the drive thru is open from 6am to 4am.
They have a wonderful website which is available for ordering and browsing.
Taco Burrito King does do catering such as weddings and baptisms and are available to do any occasions. They also cater office parties.
The quality and taste of their products is very important and the food is made fresh daily. They manufacture their own chorizo which has a lot of different spices.
Taco Burrito King offers good food and fast service and is kept in wonderful condition. The tables, floors and kitchen were very very clean.
I had the pleasure of sampling the quacamole which was chunky and refreshing. The avocados, tomatoes, cilantro and chips were very fresh and authentic.
The combination plate included one taco and I choose the pork taco, a tamale and a quesadilla which were all very authentic well cooked, tender, well seasoned and a delight with the tomato, lettuce and sour cream that accompanied it in addition to rice and beans.
The Flauta plate included three chicken flautas and included, rice, beans, lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream.
The Rice and beans are not your typical Mexican Rice and beans. The Lamas have really put alot of work into fixing two very delicate and well done traditional Mexican side dishes. The prices are very reasonable and it's a wdonerful visit.
Taco Burrito King
http://www.tacoburritoking.com/
Harlem & Belmont
3216 N Harlem
Chicago, IL 60634
T: (773) 637-3200
Sunday - Thursday: 8am - 4am
Friday & Saturday: 8am - 6am
Harlem & Montrose
4427 N Harlem
Norridge, IL 60706
T: (708) 457-0457
Daily: 9am - Midnight
Harlem & Higgins
5509 N Harlem
Chicago, IL 60656
T: (773) 467-0692
Daily: Open 24 hours
Belmont & Long
5413 W Belmont
Chicago, IL 60641
T: (773) 777-6200
Sunday - Thursday: 8am - 4am
Friday & Saturday: 8am - 6am
North & Natchez
6518 W North Avenue
Chicago, IL 60707
T: (773) 637-2111
Sunday - Thursday: 10am - 2am
Friday & Saturday: 10am - 5am
Greek Town
811 W Jackson
Chicago, IL 60607
T: (312) 831-0633
Daily: Open 24 hours
Alsip
12201 S Pulaski
Alsip, IL 60803
T: (708) 388-3400
Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5am
Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Channahon
23836 W Eames
Channahon, IL 60410
T: (815) 467-4300
Monday - Thursday: 6am - 11pm
Friday & Saturday: 6am - Midnight
Sunday: 9am - 11pm
Niles
6701 W Touhy
Niles, IL 60714
T: (847) 600-0404
Daily: Open 24 hours
The HIP
Harlem Irving Plaza Food Court
4148 N Harlem
Norridge IL. 60706
T: (708) 452-3200
http://www.tacoburritoking.com/
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
The Pita Inn: Chicago's wonderful answer for Middle Eastern Food
The Pita Inn is Chicago's premier destination for Middle Eastern Cuisine. This gold gem serves premier Middle Eastern cuisine that is fresh and healthy.
Falah Tabahi, who is the owner, came to this country from Palestine in 1972 and has been in the food business every since he came to this country. He came from Palestine and was studying in this country and ended up in the food business. He worked in the Skokie location, which was another Mediterranean and that’s how he fell into the Pita Inn business. He worked as a waiter and bus boy and learned the business from the bottom up. His son, Hazem, is top Manager for the business and watches over his father's creation and empire.
Falah worked in restaurant business and makes customer service top priority and provides people good food that is fresh and of top notch quality. Falah trained all of the cooks and the Manager in Wheeling was the very first employee and is now the main chef. Mohammed, who is another employee, has been in Pita inn for 20 years. There are alot of of long time employees and the organization doesn't see alot of turn over. Their Uncle Adel, who works in Glenview has been with them for 28 yrs.
The inspiration for the menu is to keep it simple for quick service and more consistent you can be. Flavors are in the middle so appeals to everyone. Menu is simple and severl more items have been added. Have organic chicken from amish farm. Is delivered fresh every day so it’s marinated.
There are no special products that are going to be manufactured. They are in the process of opening up a new location in the near future and their grocery store in Skokie is just unbelievable.
Their business is consistent and their prices are affordable. They have the same employees, the same food and the prices have only been raised twice. They still have 3.95 specials. This is the best deal. They have alot of customers and can compete with a lot of volume so they can keep their prices low.
They offer buffet style abnd can deliver all the food for an event. Have catering packages from 6.95 - 9.95 a person and includes all the different meats, salad, rice, chiken, falafel, and appetizers. They make their own bakalava and kinafa (ashredded wheat and cheese custard dessert).
There are other locations coming in the future and they won't be going into the dessert business. They make their own pita because it’s more authentic, however, it’s more expensive but the product is of higher quality. The future of Pita Inn is to have corporate growth and open in other cities.
Their best advertising is word of mouth and they also contribute to the local synogogues and churches. Their customers are loyal to the restaurant and come back morning noon and night. Some of the customers are eating their two times a day.
They have received alot of media attention including being on Check Please on channell 11 WTTW Chicago and was also featured on Steve Dolinsky's program "The Hungry Hound" on Channel 7 ABC.
I was able to sample the following items which were just flavorful, tasty, moist and of very high quality: Tabouleh, Jerusalem Salad, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, Chicken Shwarma, the lunch special which included several different red meats prepared in the Middle Eastern Style, Rice, Salad with Tahini and of course their wonderful and fluffy Pita. I also got to sample the Kinafa which is a dessert with shredded wheat on top of a cheesecake custard and Baklava. The food was absolutely outstanding and I am definitely going back for lunch.
Our Locations
http://www.pita-inn.com/
Glenview
9854 N. Milwaukee Avenue
Glenview, IL 60016
847-759-9990
Wheeling
122 South Elmhurst Road
Wheeling, IL 60090
847.808.7733
Hours
Sunday-Thursday 11am - 10pm
Friday-Saturday 11am- 11pm
Skokie
3910 Dempster Street
Skokie, IL 60076
847.677.0211
Hours
Sunday-Thursday 11am - 11pm
Friday-Saturday 11am- 12am
Falah Tabahi, who is the owner, came to this country from Palestine in 1972 and has been in the food business every since he came to this country. He came from Palestine and was studying in this country and ended up in the food business. He worked in the Skokie location, which was another Mediterranean and that’s how he fell into the Pita Inn business. He worked as a waiter and bus boy and learned the business from the bottom up. His son, Hazem, is top Manager for the business and watches over his father's creation and empire.
Falah worked in restaurant business and makes customer service top priority and provides people good food that is fresh and of top notch quality. Falah trained all of the cooks and the Manager in Wheeling was the very first employee and is now the main chef. Mohammed, who is another employee, has been in Pita inn for 20 years. There are alot of of long time employees and the organization doesn't see alot of turn over. Their Uncle Adel, who works in Glenview has been with them for 28 yrs.
The inspiration for the menu is to keep it simple for quick service and more consistent you can be. Flavors are in the middle so appeals to everyone. Menu is simple and severl more items have been added. Have organic chicken from amish farm. Is delivered fresh every day so it’s marinated.
There are no special products that are going to be manufactured. They are in the process of opening up a new location in the near future and their grocery store in Skokie is just unbelievable.
Their business is consistent and their prices are affordable. They have the same employees, the same food and the prices have only been raised twice. They still have 3.95 specials. This is the best deal. They have alot of customers and can compete with a lot of volume so they can keep their prices low.
They offer buffet style abnd can deliver all the food for an event. Have catering packages from 6.95 - 9.95 a person and includes all the different meats, salad, rice, chiken, falafel, and appetizers. They make their own bakalava and kinafa (ashredded wheat and cheese custard dessert).
There are other locations coming in the future and they won't be going into the dessert business. They make their own pita because it’s more authentic, however, it’s more expensive but the product is of higher quality. The future of Pita Inn is to have corporate growth and open in other cities.
Their best advertising is word of mouth and they also contribute to the local synogogues and churches. Their customers are loyal to the restaurant and come back morning noon and night. Some of the customers are eating their two times a day.
They have received alot of media attention including being on Check Please on channell 11 WTTW Chicago and was also featured on Steve Dolinsky's program "The Hungry Hound" on Channel 7 ABC.
I was able to sample the following items which were just flavorful, tasty, moist and of very high quality: Tabouleh, Jerusalem Salad, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, Chicken Shwarma, the lunch special which included several different red meats prepared in the Middle Eastern Style, Rice, Salad with Tahini and of course their wonderful and fluffy Pita. I also got to sample the Kinafa which is a dessert with shredded wheat on top of a cheesecake custard and Baklava. The food was absolutely outstanding and I am definitely going back for lunch.
Our Locations
http://www.pita-inn.com/
Glenview
9854 N. Milwaukee Avenue
Glenview, IL 60016
847-759-9990
Wheeling
122 South Elmhurst Road
Wheeling, IL 60090
847.808.7733
Hours
Sunday-Thursday 11am - 10pm
Friday-Saturday 11am- 11pm
Skokie
3910 Dempster Street
Skokie, IL 60076
847.677.0211
Hours
Sunday-Thursday 11am - 11pm
Friday-Saturday 11am- 12am
Monday, April 5, 2010
Greek Feast: Chicago's OUTSTANDING Greek Street Food
Greek Feast is an unbelievable addition to Northbrook's dining scene. It is a gold gem of a destination that is owned by George Vlahakis and his family who have been in business for more than 35 years. George also owns Georgie V's in Northbrook and Mrs. V's in Des Plaines on the corner of River Road and Oakton. Their sons Peter, who is a chef and Ted whose specialty is the front of the house (the technology) are very very involved with operating and managing the Vlahakis empire. Mrs. Vlahakis running Georgie V's. George Vlahakis hails from Sparta, Greece and the V on the sign outside of his restaurant symbolizes the Spartan V warrior symbol. There are also olive and lemon trees inside of the dining establishment.
Their inspiration for Greek Feast was traditional greek street in a fast casual atmosphere. The menu delivers on this concept and then some. George and his sons have been thinking about this venture for years. They found a location and opened up a restarant that is all Greek food and wine and just Greek food and wine. This is fast casusal for Greek food done with a 100 Gold star rating. You order your food, sit down and someone will bring your order to you. Their creations are top secret family recipes and are outsourced to a special kitchen that does all of the cooking for them.
Their ingredients are unbelievably fresh and 100% hand picked from their vendors. Grecian Delight (which is in Elk Grove Village, IL and is owned by Mr. Peter Parthenis) is supplying them with their Gyros and Chicken Gyros. All of their recipes are researched. The spice mix for their different dishes is a secret. The Greek Sausage is also top secret and was mouth watering.
George, Peter and Ted will start the catering portion of the business very son and will also offer curbside service. They will also offer family packs and that will be especially helpful on the North Shore because of the number of families and children that reside in the area. There will be outdoor seating in the near future.
Northbrook has been very good to them and the clients at Georgie V's and Greek Feast are just unbelievable.
I sampled Gyros, Chicken Gyros (which was very very lean), Rice, Pita Bread, Avgolemono Soup (Egg Lemon Soup) Skordalia (Potato Garlic Spread) Tzaziki (Garlic Cucumber spread) and a spicy feta spread. I also sampled the Greek Sausage which was absolutely mouth watering and last the baklava which is Mrs. Vlahakis recipe.
Greek Feast is the best addition to Northbrook, IL and to Chicago's North Shore.
Greek Feast
2784 West Dundee Rd.
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847-559-1901
Fax: 847-559-1903
Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Their inspiration for Greek Feast was traditional greek street in a fast casual atmosphere. The menu delivers on this concept and then some. George and his sons have been thinking about this venture for years. They found a location and opened up a restarant that is all Greek food and wine and just Greek food and wine. This is fast casusal for Greek food done with a 100 Gold star rating. You order your food, sit down and someone will bring your order to you. Their creations are top secret family recipes and are outsourced to a special kitchen that does all of the cooking for them.
Their ingredients are unbelievably fresh and 100% hand picked from their vendors. Grecian Delight (which is in Elk Grove Village, IL and is owned by Mr. Peter Parthenis) is supplying them with their Gyros and Chicken Gyros. All of their recipes are researched. The spice mix for their different dishes is a secret. The Greek Sausage is also top secret and was mouth watering.
George, Peter and Ted will start the catering portion of the business very son and will also offer curbside service. They will also offer family packs and that will be especially helpful on the North Shore because of the number of families and children that reside in the area. There will be outdoor seating in the near future.
Northbrook has been very good to them and the clients at Georgie V's and Greek Feast are just unbelievable.
I sampled Gyros, Chicken Gyros (which was very very lean), Rice, Pita Bread, Avgolemono Soup (Egg Lemon Soup) Skordalia (Potato Garlic Spread) Tzaziki (Garlic Cucumber spread) and a spicy feta spread. I also sampled the Greek Sausage which was absolutely mouth watering and last the baklava which is Mrs. Vlahakis recipe.
Greek Feast is the best addition to Northbrook, IL and to Chicago's North Shore.
Greek Feast
2784 West Dundee Rd.
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847-559-1901
Fax: 847-559-1903
Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wholly Frijoles: Lincolnwood's Mexican treat with a twist
Wholly Frijoles is one of Chicago's gem that sits on Touhy Avenue in Lincolnwood, Illinois and is Mexican cuisine with a twist. Carmen Villegas, who is the owner, came to this country in 1973 and opened Wholly FrijolesF in September of 2000. Previously, he worked for Lettuce Entertain you for 15 years. He was also a chef for Seasons of Long Grove, IL.
His clientele are from all over with an emphasis of a large group from the North Shore. His customers also come from Gurnee and Zion.
He offers contemporary Mexican with a twist cuisine and uses the most fresh ingredients that he chooses himeself. He has a competitive produce company that brings him fresh products and herbs. There is also a main supplier of produce,meats and seafood that comes every other day.
Carmen keeps a very close eye on what the customers are ordering and tries to incorporate any specials that are popular on the regular menu. The specials change every week to keep the menu fresh and current.
There is special attention to the restaurant to make sure that it's functioning properly and stays unbelievably clean.
Wholly Frijoles is staying ahead by staying fresh, healthy, clean and keeping the food different and the usual faire that you get at a traditional Mexican restaurant. The goal is for his Mexican food to be different. Carmen and his wife are not working on any other products but might be opening another restaurant in the coming months.
Wholly Frijoles has been on every major network in Chicago and has also been featured on the Spanish channels.
If someone really wants Mexican food and they should call ahead. They don’ thave reservcations and to call. Start taking names at 4pm and they have an hour wait.
Wholly Frijoles
3908 West Touhy Avenue
Lincolnwood, IL 60712
phone: (847)-329-9810
http://www.whollyfrijoles.net/
His clientele are from all over with an emphasis of a large group from the North Shore. His customers also come from Gurnee and Zion.
He offers contemporary Mexican with a twist cuisine and uses the most fresh ingredients that he chooses himeself. He has a competitive produce company that brings him fresh products and herbs. There is also a main supplier of produce,meats and seafood that comes every other day.
Carmen keeps a very close eye on what the customers are ordering and tries to incorporate any specials that are popular on the regular menu. The specials change every week to keep the menu fresh and current.
There is special attention to the restaurant to make sure that it's functioning properly and stays unbelievably clean.
Wholly Frijoles is staying ahead by staying fresh, healthy, clean and keeping the food different and the usual faire that you get at a traditional Mexican restaurant. The goal is for his Mexican food to be different. Carmen and his wife are not working on any other products but might be opening another restaurant in the coming months.
Wholly Frijoles has been on every major network in Chicago and has also been featured on the Spanish channels.
If someone really wants Mexican food and they should call ahead. They don’ thave reservcations and to call. Start taking names at 4pm and they have an hour wait.
Wholly Frijoles
3908 West Touhy Avenue
Lincolnwood, IL 60712
phone: (847)-329-9810
http://www.whollyfrijoles.net/
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Max and Benny's in Northbrook: An unbelievable destination for everyone
Lester Schlan is the owner of Max and Benny's (http://www.maxandbennys.com/) and will have been in business for 25 years in December of 2010. Max and Benny's has been in the present location for 15 yrs and Lester has been in the restaurant business all of his life. He opened a coffee house and bakery right out of college. Lester Schlan, who is the owner of Max and Benny's in Northbrook, has built an unbelievable dining establishment that caters to all people from all different roads of life. The restuarant is not a Kosher establishment but offers Kosher ingredients but it's not for all of the dishes that are offered. Their Passover items such as their chocolate covered macaroons, matzo, brisket, chicken, a chocolate roulade with a raspberry sauce and other wonderful delights are like pulling up to the table at your grandmother's home during the holidays.
The deli is a one stop shopping for all of your needs at home for the refrigerator such as knishes, sandwiches, soups, cheesecakes, bagel dogs, kugels, mandel brot, rugalach, cheesecakes, deli meats and cheeses and their homemade cookies that can be customized. Presently, Max and Benny's is baking cookies for all of the different Chicago sports venues like the United Center, Wrigley Field, US Cellular field and the Chicago Black Hawks. Their mandel brot come in several different flavors including walnut and chocolate chip.
Any ingredient that is left over is always used for another dish or product. Nothing is wasted.
The platters that they offer are many and are listed on their catering menu that is the size of a dictionary and thesaurus.
Inspirations for menu come from his creativity and the ability to improve his operation. Lester has more than 100 people that work for him. They have lowered their prices in this economy for the customer. They buy the very best food from the very best sources. Max and Benny's is a deli, restaurant and offers dinner, parties, events and catering options that are absolutely a delight to anyone's palette. Everything is baked from scratch: Rolls, bagels, challah, cookies bread, cheesecakes and all of their delights. Everthing is done impeccably and with pefection. They cater to the business world, families, and get togethers such as bar mitzvahs, bat mitzvahs, baptisms, first communions and birthday parties. No event is out of their ability to provide fresh quality food. They have a lot of different functions for people from all backgrounds and everyone is welcome. They are open for all people.
The parking is ample and they offer free wifi. Do have a full liquor license and serve alcohol.
On the day of my visit, they were having a networking seminar for those looking for a job opportunity so they're able to really accomodate alot of different events and functions
Lester is able to stay ahead of the customer and in these economic conditions because they haven’t dropped their quality of products and delivery and they have a good reputation. Tourism is their bread and butter and they have a wonderful following from the surrounding community.
Corned beef is their biggest seller and they also offer chicken matzo ball soup that comes with either veges or some type of pasta like kreplach, rice or another other carb.
They have received stellar grades from the health department and they are very watchful of all insects and pests. There are eight managers and they take care of everything. They watch the refrigerators because that can be dangerous if the temperature is incorrect or the door is left open. Raw items are placed on the bottom because raw food can’t drip on fresh food. Cleaning crews come in everynight and they spend a lot of money on cleaning to make sure that there are no health issues that arise. Honestly, you can eat off the floors in the dining room and in the kitchen.
Their Passover menu consists of the following: fried matzo, with salami or lox, sponge cake french toast, matzo meal pancakes, passover cheese blintzes, matzo pizza with with fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella either in a new or old style, 1/2 of a free-rage chicken with tsimmes and potato kugel or a passover popover filled with Tuna.
I sampled Matzo Ball Soup, a creamy chicken tortilla soup with pieces of tortilla chips, fresh baked rolls that are made every day, ruben egg rolls with 1000 island dressing, a corned beef sandwich with a pickle and coleslaw, chopped liver, passover popovers with tuna fish, homemade honey cake french toast, a chocolate roulade with strawberry sauce and FRESH whip cream,a chocolate covered macaroon and a chocolate chip cheesecake that was absolutely decadent. All of these items are listed on their menu and were wonderful. They were tasty, had a wonderfull texture and were made with perfection and care.
Max and Benny's is an absolute jewel and are top notch. They are an unbelieavable assett to the dining scene on the North Shore.
Max and Benny's
6:30am-9:00pm seven days per week. Holiday hours may apply
461 Waukegan Road, Brookside Plaza
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847-272-9490
Fax: 847-272-9588
The deli is a one stop shopping for all of your needs at home for the refrigerator such as knishes, sandwiches, soups, cheesecakes, bagel dogs, kugels, mandel brot, rugalach, cheesecakes, deli meats and cheeses and their homemade cookies that can be customized. Presently, Max and Benny's is baking cookies for all of the different Chicago sports venues like the United Center, Wrigley Field, US Cellular field and the Chicago Black Hawks. Their mandel brot come in several different flavors including walnut and chocolate chip.
Any ingredient that is left over is always used for another dish or product. Nothing is wasted.
The platters that they offer are many and are listed on their catering menu that is the size of a dictionary and thesaurus.
Inspirations for menu come from his creativity and the ability to improve his operation. Lester has more than 100 people that work for him. They have lowered their prices in this economy for the customer. They buy the very best food from the very best sources. Max and Benny's is a deli, restaurant and offers dinner, parties, events and catering options that are absolutely a delight to anyone's palette. Everything is baked from scratch: Rolls, bagels, challah, cookies bread, cheesecakes and all of their delights. Everthing is done impeccably and with pefection. They cater to the business world, families, and get togethers such as bar mitzvahs, bat mitzvahs, baptisms, first communions and birthday parties. No event is out of their ability to provide fresh quality food. They have a lot of different functions for people from all backgrounds and everyone is welcome. They are open for all people.
The parking is ample and they offer free wifi. Do have a full liquor license and serve alcohol.
On the day of my visit, they were having a networking seminar for those looking for a job opportunity so they're able to really accomodate alot of different events and functions
Lester is able to stay ahead of the customer and in these economic conditions because they haven’t dropped their quality of products and delivery and they have a good reputation. Tourism is their bread and butter and they have a wonderful following from the surrounding community.
Corned beef is their biggest seller and they also offer chicken matzo ball soup that comes with either veges or some type of pasta like kreplach, rice or another other carb.
They have received stellar grades from the health department and they are very watchful of all insects and pests. There are eight managers and they take care of everything. They watch the refrigerators because that can be dangerous if the temperature is incorrect or the door is left open. Raw items are placed on the bottom because raw food can’t drip on fresh food. Cleaning crews come in everynight and they spend a lot of money on cleaning to make sure that there are no health issues that arise. Honestly, you can eat off the floors in the dining room and in the kitchen.
Their Passover menu consists of the following: fried matzo, with salami or lox, sponge cake french toast, matzo meal pancakes, passover cheese blintzes, matzo pizza with with fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella either in a new or old style, 1/2 of a free-rage chicken with tsimmes and potato kugel or a passover popover filled with Tuna.
I sampled Matzo Ball Soup, a creamy chicken tortilla soup with pieces of tortilla chips, fresh baked rolls that are made every day, ruben egg rolls with 1000 island dressing, a corned beef sandwich with a pickle and coleslaw, chopped liver, passover popovers with tuna fish, homemade honey cake french toast, a chocolate roulade with strawberry sauce and FRESH whip cream,a chocolate covered macaroon and a chocolate chip cheesecake that was absolutely decadent. All of these items are listed on their menu and were wonderful. They were tasty, had a wonderfull texture and were made with perfection and care.
Max and Benny's is an absolute jewel and are top notch. They are an unbelieavable assett to the dining scene on the North Shore.
Max and Benny's
6:30am-9:00pm seven days per week. Holiday hours may apply
461 Waukegan Road, Brookside Plaza
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847-272-9490
Fax: 847-272-9588
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
