The folks at Chicago Magazine have selected their top ten suburban bars. Now that the Superbowl is over, it’s time to continue bar patronage – go ahead, try some new ones!  LH

SOUTHERN

FLOSSMOOR STATION
This quaint spot—named the best small brewpub at the 2006 Great American Beer Festival—is housed in a 90-year-old train station, allowing Metra riders to spill straight from the train into the bar. With award-winning beers brewed on-site (we like the seasonal White Lady Imperial Wit), a pages-long food menu, and friendly service, it’s worth a visit, even if it means an extra commute. 1035 Sterling Ave., Flossmoor; 708-957-2739, flossmoorstation.com food available | outdoor seating

WESTERN

BALLYDOYLE
The owner, Phil Cullen, did his homework, photographing pubs all over Ireland to get the proper look for his Downers Grove tavern (a second location is in Aurora, and a third was set to open in January in Bloomingdale), right down to the four fireplaces, antiques, and rickety chairs and tables. Six of the 19 beers on tap are Irish, and this is the only place in the country you can get a McCaffery’s Irish Cream Ale from Chicago’s Argus Brewery. 5157 Main St., Downers Grove, 630-969-0600; 28 W. New York St., Aurora, 630-844-0400; ballydoylepub.com food available | cover charge | live music   

BLACKFINN AMERICAN SALOON
Since opening last fall, this 13,000-square-foot outpost of a national chain has drawn an enthusiastic crowd of cougars, college kids, and business types for its generous pours and upscale ambiance. The tall mahogany booths—with individual flat-screen TVs—offer seclusion, and weekend DJs blast tunes by everyone from Frank Sinatra to Lady Gaga. Two bars on the main floor keep service smooth even when the place is packed. A polished addition to downtown Naperville. 16 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville; 630-717-0400, blackfinnchicago.com food available | outdoor seating | live music

THE FOUNDRY
Housed in a former four-screen movie theatre, this sports lover’s mecca in Aurora boasts a jaw-dropping back wall covered in 12- and 15-foot TV screens, plus smaller TVs at individual tables. If playing, not watching, is your thing, choose from darts, shuffleboard, pool tables, beanbags, and sand volleyball. If you’re a smoker, check out the tobacco shop, where you can buy cigars and smoke them inside—legally. 85 Executive Dr., Aurora; 630-978-2088, thefoundryonline.com food available | outdoor seating | live music  

HALA KAHIKI LOUNGE
Sure, the Polynesian kitsch is timeworn, but somehow the mix of wooden carvings, beaded curtains, fake fruit, and Don Ho tunes just works. Consider this River Grove tiki lounge a perfect winter getaway for a taste of the tropics: Try a planter’s punch, a zombie, or any of the more than 100 other exotic cocktails. In summer, relax in a courtyard complete with bamboo huts and a fountain. 2834 River Rd., River Grove; 708-456-3222, hala-kahiki.com outdoor seating

LUNAR BREWING COMPANY
Despite the blue-collar vibe, don’t bother ordering a PBR at this Villa Park microbrewery, where moons and stars dangle above a twenties-era back bar. Lunar offers 17 beers on tap—eight brewed on the premises. The brewmaster, Jimmy “Dr. Delicious” Filisko, concocts about 30 recipes throughout the year, but the IPA, stout, and cream ale are always available. Check the chalkboard for seasonal bottled brews, stored in the bar’s wooden coolers. 54 E. St. Charles Rd., Villa Park; 630-530-2077, myspace.com/lunarbrewingco food available | live music (Sat.)

PALMER PLACE
This La Grange spot may look generic, but a substantial beer list curated by the owners, Steve and Phil Palmer, sets it apart, with 36 brews on tap and another 300 bottled varieties organized by country behind the bar. A three-level beer garden out back holds 260, but snag a stool at the ten-seat bar to talk beer with the friendly staff. 56 S. La Grange Rd., La Grange; 708-482-7127, palmerslagrange.com food available | outdoor seating | live music (occasionally)

YORK TAVERN
Located in a historic farmhouse, this Oak Brook watering hole has been around for more than 50 years—and has the stories to prove it (Vincent Price and Shelley Winters reportedly drank here). Inside are neon beer signs, dark wood, and remnants of the original brick walls from the 1840s. With a capacity of only 65, the bar can feel cramped, but reasonable prices, a friendly crowd, and house-made pizza compensate amply. 3702 York Rd., Oak Brook; 630-323-5090 food available

NORTHERN

FIRKIN
Locals love Libertyville’s überpopular brewpub Mickey Finn’s, but when we get tired of angling for a seat there, we head to this gem just a block or so away. The vintage knickknacks and year-round Christmas lights give the cozy tap character, but the big attraction is a constantly evolving roundup of imported beers and Midwestern microbrews—Stevens Point, Dark Horse, Surly—with 28 on draft and more than 50 by the bottle. And then there’s the spirits list: some 50 vodkas, 18 gins, and two dozen tequilas. For a posher vibe, go next door to the owners’ Tavern Lounge. 515 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville; 847-367-6168, firkinoflibertyville.com food available | live music (Tues., Thurs.)

MEIER’S TAVERN
This Glenview tavern started selling beers and burgers for a few cents each in the 1920s, and other than the prices, not much has changed. The original bar still stands, and some bottles look as if they haven’t been touched since Prohibition. But that’s the charm. The staff is friendly, and the beer is cold. Bring cash—credit cards are not accepted—for a mug of DAB German lager and a side of Tater Tots. 235 E. Lake Ave., Glenview; 847-724-0477, meierstavern.com food available

This past year, a group of us has formed a sort of culinary rat pack.  We started by calling ourselves a group  of foodies, but none of us really like that name. Our cooking antics have been well chronicled here on the blog (I am backed up on some of our events).

Although I wrote up the best dishes of 2009 awhile back, those included “restaurant only” offerings.  I would safely say that at least half of the best things I consumed in 2009 came from the rat pack. Some members are professional chefs, or are in the food profession in some way. There is an attorney, a beer expert – you get the picture.

Brian Graham was known in the group as the husband of highly degreed and accomplished Colleen Graham. Colleen went to school to learn from cheese masters, and has a growing business: www.cheeseparties.com.  Brian is a successful outdoor tent salesman, so he is surrounded in the business by caterers etc.  We just thought he was in charge of carrying things in for Colleen, and enjoying the cocktails and conversation.  Then one evening, Brian brought in a bunch of pans and presented us with this soup. We then heard that Brian came from a long lineage of cooks and he learned from the bottom up watching his mother.

The soup was really outstanding.  The recipe has two steps (making the vinegar and aging it), then actually creating the soup.  This is the kind of recipe embraced by those who really love making soup and are willing to take the time.  You will not be unhappy, believe me!  Brian’s stock has gone up again. We were together last Wednesday and he brought his stones and hand sharpened our knives.

BEANS de OLLA 

¼ c. Olive Oil

4” Piece of Mexican Chorizo (Such as Supremo Pork, no beef, or favorite local Mexican market house made)

½ Medium Onion coarsely chopped

2 Cloves garlic, minced

1 Finely chopped Jalapeno (cleaned and seeded)

2 Small cans or 1 Large can La Preferida black beans or ½ black, ½ pinto beans. Drained, not rinsed

1 Finely chopped fresh ripe plum tomato

1 T + Dried Oregano (preferably Mexican)

1 t + Fresh Ground Cumin

1 t + Fresh Ground Coriander

¼ c. Chopped Cilantro (Fresh stems and leaves. Dried is worthless, don’t bother.)

Salt & Pepper to taste

 3c.  Good quality chicken stock (preferably homemade)

 1/4c. + Salsa Bruja Vinegar

 Garnishes:

Sour cream

Chopped onion & cilantro

Shredded Queso Quesadilla (Mexican melting cheese not Queso Fresco)

 Heat oil in a sauce pan over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until crispy and not just cooked through. Add onion and cook until translucent, then add garlic. After 30 seconds or when garlic is fragrant, add chopped tomato. Cook until tomatoes soften about 3 to 5 minutes. Add beans, oregano, cumin and coriander. Stir in broth. The broth should cover the beans so more may be needed. Add vinegar. Bring to a simmer and taste for salt and add if necessary. Taste again for vinegar. There should be a balance between broth and tang from the vinegar. Add more broth if too tangy, add more vinegar if not tangy enough. Add black pepper and cilantro and simmer 30 minutes more. Remove from heat and let it come down to room temperature before reheating and serving.

 SALSA BRUGA VINEGAR

 2          medium carrots, peeled, quartered

3          scallions cut in ½

3          medium jalapenos, quartered with seeds intact

1          T each whole cumin, coriander and black peppercorn seeds

8-10     whole peeled garlic cloves

12-16   small or medium bay leaves

            White vinegar

1          clean 750 ML wine bottle

 Place all ingredients in bottle. Pour vinegar over ingredients. Seal with cork or bottle stopper. Store in a cool dry place.  Give the bottle a stir or shake every few days. Store for two weeks in order to use it in the soup.

A devastating fire shut down Macello Ristorante one year ago. The rebuilt restaurant has now reopened and Chef Giovanni DeNigris is keeping much of the previously successful menu in tact.  The wood burning ovens will be fired up for pizzas, and they will continue to serve a variety of seafood,  pastas and steaks.  Macello’s has a nice wine list, a full bar and ample parking on the street.

DeNigris also serves up his Italian fair at Lincoln Square’s Trattoria Trullo which we have reviewed. 

Macello Ristorante

1235 W. Lake Street

312-850-9870

 There is a lot of options to choose from to dine with your Valentine in the city this year.  Some are more reasonably priced than others, most require a reservation.  So, make plans wih your honey soon to lock in that romantic meal. LH

10PIN BOWLING LOUNGE
330 N. State St | Chicago, IL 60610 | 312. 644.0300 | www.10pinchicago.com

Post-Dinner Bowling at 10pin
Sunday, February 14
Couples are invited to enjoy a free game of bowling with the presentation of a dinner receipt from any restaurant.

BRASSERIE JO
59 W. Hubbard St. | Chicago, IL 60610 | 312. 595.0800 | www.brasseriejo.com

Jour de la Saint-Valentin at Brasserie JO
Sunday, February 14
4-Course, $49 per person
Brasserie JO invites Chicagoans to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a special four course prix-fixe menu created by Chef/Proprietor J. Joho.  Menu will include a choice from three appetizers, three second courses, three mains and three desserts and will cost $49 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.  Menu highlights include Foie Gras and Oxtail Terrine as a first course, Cream of Celeriac as a second course, Atlantic Salmon Filet and New York Strip Au Poivre for main course options, and Almond Chocolate Cake for dessert.  Full menu available below.  Menu items will be available a la carte Friday, February 12 and Saturday February 13, reservations strongly recommended.
1st
½ Dozen Alpine Bay Oysters (add $8 pp)
Foie Gras and Oxtail Terrine: Radish, Watercress Salad
Open Ravioli: Shrimp, Braised Leeks, Mushrooms, DiVine Sauce
2nd
Cream of Celeriac: Brioche Crouton
Winter Greens: Bleu d’ Avernge, Roasted Shallot Vinaigrette, Candied Walnuts
Main
Atlantic Salmon Filet: Green Bean Almondine, Lemon Champagne Butter
Farm Raised Chicken Supreme: Goat Cheese, Fines Herbes, Sweet Potato, Thyme Jus
New York Strip Au Poirve 10 oz: Potato Gratin, Broccoli (add $10 pp)
Dessert
Almond Chocolate Cake
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, Raspberry Coulis

CARNIVALE
702 W Fulton St | Chicago, IL 60661| 312.850.5005 | www.carnivalechicago.com

Valentine’s Day Carnivale Style
Friday, February 12 – Sunday, February 14

Guests will indulge in decadent specials Valentine’s Day weekend at Carnivale, including sensual oysters with bacon bread crumb salsa, a 40 oz. porterhouse for two and a “Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate” dessert.  Cocktail specials include Dom Perignon by the glass ($35) and more.  On February 14, a festive stilt-walker will hand out complimentary flowers to the ladies and live music will be provided by Los Guitarristas.  Full Valentine’s Day specials below.  Reservations recommended.

Oysters
Fried Blue Point Oysters, creamed spinach, bacon bread crumb salsa – $10
Prime Ribeye for Two
32 oz. dry aged prime ribeye, crispy potatoes, goat cheese fondue, and chimichurri – $65
Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate
Chocolate empanada, chocolate rice pudding, chocolate tres leches – $9

CHENS CHINESE AND SUSHI
3506 N. Clark St. | Chicago, IL 60657 | 773.549.9100 | www.chenschicago.com
KOI
624 Davis Street | Evanston, IL 60201 | 847.866.6969 | www.koievanston.com
 Couples Prix-Fixe at Koi and Chen’s
Sunday, February 14
$25 per person, excluding tax and gratuity
Couples are invited to celebrate Valentine’s Day at Chen’s Chinese and Sushi and Koi of Evanston with a special menu for the holiday.  Specialty menu includes a Sushi Tuna Rose Appetizer, an appetizer comprised solely of tuna and served in the shape of a rose (photo available upon request), followed by the Dragon and Phoenix Entrée, featuring the Dragon: crispy chicken covered in tangy sweet and spicy pepper sauce and the Phoenix: shrimp sauteed with vegetables in white wine sauce.  This entrée for two brings longevity to the relationship.  Guests can indulge in chocolate cake for dessert and a glass of house red wine, white wine or sake rounds out the menu. Reservations recommended.

CITYSCAPE BAR
Holiday Inn Mart Plaza | 15th Floor | 350 W. Mart Center Drive | Chicago, IL 60654 | 312.836.5000 |  www.martplaza.com

Cityscape’s Weekend of Romance
Friday, February 12 – Sunday, February 14

Chicagoans are invited to celebrate the most romantic weekend of the year with stunning panoramic views of downtown’s River North.  Cityscape Bar, located on the 15th floor of the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza, will host Valentine’s Day this February with cocktail, wine and champagne specials along with a specialty appetizer.  The specialty appetizer is Prosciutto, Crab and Spinach Rangoon, Rice Noodles and Thai Peanut Sauce for $9, and guests are invited to sample $7 specialty martinis and multiple wine and champagne specials, offered both by the glass and bottle.

DAWALI MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN
4911 N. Kedzie Avenue | Chicago, IL 60625 | 777.267.4200

Valentine’s Day Prix-Fixe Menu for Two
Saturday, February 13 – Sunday, February 14
$50 per couple
Dawali Mediterranean Kitchen is offering couples a $50 menu for two, available for dine-in and carry-out.  Menu includes a House Soup or Salad for an appetizer, Braised Lamb Shank, Pan-Seared Salmon or Stuffed Cornish Game Hen for an entrée, and Pistachio Crusted Molten Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream and Raspberry Coulis or the House Dessert option to finish the meal.  A fountain drink, Arabic coffee or tea is included.

HOLIDAY INN CHICAGO MART PLAZA
Holiday Inn Mart Plaza | 15th Floor | 350 W. Mart Center Drive | Chicago, IL 60654 | 312.836.5000 |  www.martplaza.com

Romantic February Escape
Tuesday, February 2 – Sunday, February 28
Starts at $135, Booking Code IJHD1

The Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza presents an exclusive February Romance package for those looking for a romantic Valentine’s Day escape to the Windy City.  This indulgent weekend package at one of Chicago’s most celebrated hotels in the heart of River North includes:
*Deluxe accommodations for two in newly redesigned guest rooms equipped with a 32-inch LCD flat screen television, full bath amenities, complimentary high speed wireless Internet, new Serta Concierge Plus mattresses and more.
*Godiva Gems – individually wrapped decadent chocolates featuring three varieties, Solid Gems, Caramel Gems and Truffle Gems, all available in rich milk or dark chocolate.  Each packaged in a colorful jewel tone wrapper.
*Godiva Chocolate Rewards Card – offers exclusive deals and complimentary Godiva treats every month with redemption at the Watertower Godiva store (845 N. Michigan Ave.) or online at www.Godiva.com
*Two Godiva Chocolate Martinis at Cityscape Bar
*Complimentary breakfast at Chicago’s new Italian – Asian fusion hotspot, Italiasia ($45 value)
*Complimentary parking ($34 value)

ITALIASIA
Holiday Inn Mart Plaza | 15th Floor | 350 W. Mart Center Drive | Chicago, IL 60654 | 312.529.1157 | www.martplaza.com

Valentine’s Day Celebration at Italiasia
Friday, February 12 – Sunday, February 14
$25 per person
In celebration of Valentine’s Day this February, Italiasia Restaurant in the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza is featuring a special romantic dinner for two prix-fixe menu.  For $25 per person, guests can enjoy a three-course dinner featuring a salad, entrée and dessert.  Menu highlights include: Miso Glazed Duck Breast, Ponzu Infused Halibut and Szechwan Pepper Crusted New York Strip.  Complete menu available upon request. Call for reservations.

LUXBAR
18 E. Bellevue Place | Chicago, IL 60611| 312.642.3400 | www.luxbar.com

Heartbreaker’s Ball — Benefits The Children’s Heart Foundation
Saturday, February 13
10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Singles and non-singles alike are invited to put down the chocolate and come to Luxbar on Saturday, February 13 for a special Valentine’s Day benefit for The Children’s Heart Foundation.  Festivities include tunes spun by LuxLounge’s all-female DJs, $7 St. Germaine Valentinis, Valentine’s Gift Raffle, House made Red Velvet Cupcakes and a chance to win a date with Miss Illinois Ashley Bond.  Proceeds from the Raffle, Auction and Cupcakes will benefit The Children’s Heart Foundation.  As usual, there is no cover ever at Luxbar.

STRETCH RUN SPORTING CLUB & GRILLE
544 N LaSalle | Chicago, IL 60610 | 312.644.4477 | www.stretchrunchicago.com

Anti-Valentine’s Party at Stretch Run
Saturday, February 13
Single ladies are invited to visit Stretch Run on Saturday, February 13 for an Anti-Valentine’s Day Party.  All ladies will receive a rose and a chocolate covered strawberry (while supplies last) and are invited to enjoy $17.50 Miller Family Buckets and $4 vodka drinks.
 
TAPAS VALENCIA
1530 South State Street | Chicago, IL 60605 | 312.842.4444 | www.tapasvalencia.com

MESON SABIKA
1025 Aurora Avenue | Naperville, IL 60540 | 630.983.3000 | www.mesonsabika.com
Valentine’s Day Specials at Tapas Valencia and Meson Sabika
Friday, February 12 – Sunday, February 14
$29.95 per person

Guests who make their Valentine’s dinner reservations with Tapas Valencia or Meson Sabika in Naperville will be entered into a drawing to win a romantic complimentary dinner for two.  Winners will be surprised with the complimentary dinner upon arrival to reservation.  Reservations must be made a minimum of 24 hours in advance in order to be entered into the drawing.  Valid for dinner reservations only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights during Valentine’s Day weekend.  One drawing per day.  Both restaurants will offer a special Valentine’s Day menu, priced at $29.95 per person.  Diners will enjoy Flamenco Friday at Meson Sabika on February 12, and a guitarist will provide entertainment on Sunday at Tapas Valencia.  Additionally, guests are invited to join both Tapas Valencia and Meson Sabika for a special Valentine’s Day Brunch from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.  Special Valentine’s Weekend Menu below.

Berenjena con Queso y Rollitio de Salmon Ahumado
Combination of grilled eggplant stuffed with roasted peppers and goat cheese drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, and smoked salmon wrapped with spring mix drizzled with mango citrus vinaigrette
Tapas Frias Populares

Combination of garlic potato salad, sautéed vegetables and imported Serrano Ham
 Quisquilla al Horno
Baked prawns served with angel hair pasta and drizzled with lemon butter sauce
Pollo y Datiles
Combination of chicken tenderloin brochettes and dates wrapped in bacon
Mar y Montana
Combination of beef tenderloin drizzled with Vega Sindoa wine and sea scallops drizzled with saffron butter sauce served with mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach
Pastel de Bibleia
Chocolate Heaven

TAVERN ON RUSH
1031 N. Rush St. | Chicago, IL 60611 | 312. 664. 9600 | www.tavernonrush.com

Special Valentine’s Menu Option at Tavern on Rush
Friday, February 12 – Sunday, February 14
4-Course $49 prix-fixe, with ala-carte options available
Tavern on Rush will offer guests a four-course, prix-fixe Chef’s Specialty Menu in celebration of Valentine’s Day.  Diners will have the option to order from the regular menu or purchase the entire prix-fixe menu, which includes soup, salad, an entrée and dessert.  Guests can also try specialty items a la carte if they wish to sample a dish from the special Valentine’s Day menu in combination with regular menu items.  Specialty menu with a la carte prices below.
Lobster Consommé en Croute – $6.95
Baby Arugula with Black Mission Fig Salad – $8.95
Hawaiian “Onaga” Ruby Red Snapper with Honey-lime Glaze – $30.95
Australian Lamb Chops “Greek Style” – $34.95
Hazelnut Chocolate Crunch – $7.95

TRADER VIC’S
1030 N. State St. | Chicago, IL 60610 | 312.642.6500 | www.tradervicschicago.com

Special Valentine’s Day Menu at Trader Vic’s
Friday, February 12 – Sunday, February 14
$80 per couple
Trader Vic’s is offering couples a three-course, prix-fixe menu option for $80 per couple this Valentine’s Day.  The menu will be offered in addition to the regular menu.  The Valentine’s menu includes individual first and second courses, with options such as California Sushi Rolls and a Papaya Waldorf  Salad to start, and Rosemary Mint Filet Mignon, a Seafood Bake or Orange Chicken for the second course.  The dessert course is meant to be shared, and features a Dark Chocolate Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream and Caramel Thyme Drizzle.  Reservations highly recommended.

When my buddies at Coco Pazzo sent me this new winter menu, I loved the descriptions so much that I felt like lighting a fire, wrapping up in my snuggie and just reading their  wonderful food prose (if I could not eat there right away!)  So, read on and I’ll bet you’ll be taking direct action to be comforted at CP. LH

Pastas

Agnolotti del Plin, translates to stuffed pasta that is ‘pinched’ because you pinch with thumb and forefinger to seal the pasta packets, making the preparation very time consuming. Agnolotti are traditionally from the Piedmont region and stuffed with braised meat. Coco Pazzo breaks with tradition and fills the pasta with chicken, Mortadella and Parmesan, and simply finished with mushrooms, thyme and butter.

Cannelloni Melanzane

Cannelloni Melanzane, is treated with the same originality. The outside layer of eggplant is baked and then wrapped around a sleeve of fresh pasta and stuffed with a silky mixture of roasted eggplant and béchamel sauce, topped with creamy caciocavallo sheep’s milk cheese and served with a bright, tomato mint pan sauce.

 Game dishes

Uncommon in the U.S., but the bird of choice in Italy, is the Guinea Hen (aka: Guinea Fowl). In his signature style of twisting with tradition, Chef Macchia cooks the Grimaud Farms hen in Faraona due Sapori, two different ways. The breast is roasted to order, to keep it juicy, and the leg and thigh is slow braised until fork tender in saba juice (grape must). The hen is served with the surprise of Seckel pears poached in red wine sauce.

 The Scottadito de Cervo, is a spectacular, original presentation of ever-so-slightly-sweet venison loin medallions, accented by cipolline agro dolce––which is a cross between a sauce and vegetable preparation. Cipolline onions are cooked with pine nuts and currents in sherry vinegar creating a deep, rich sweet and sour  “agro dolce” flavor. This dish comes from Macchia’s heart ––  while growing up his father was a faithful deer hunter.

Coco Pazzo
300 W Hubbard
Chicago, IL 60654
312.836.0900
http://www.cocopazzochicago.com