July 2008 Archives

"No Cry Babies!" "Eat it and beat it!" With signs like these greeting you at the walkup window, the ice better taste fantastic. And it does. The no-nonsense but friendly brother duo at Mikos makes their refreshing Italian ice daily. You can expect well-known flavors like lemon plus unique options (think banana chocolate chip, coconut, grapefruit and mango). They're all worth trying, so don't hold back...Mikos suggests you try two or three at a time.

True to the quirky character of the place, the hours are...well...see for yourself. Here's an exact quote:

"Open most days about 9-10am...occasionally as early as 7am...but some days as late as 12 or 1pm. We're closed about 5:30 or 6pm...Occasionally 4 or 5pm...but sometimes as late as 11 or 12am. Some days not here at all and lately I've been here just about all the time. Except when I'm some place else, but I should be here then, too."

Tastybeat has had the most luck in the late afternoon.

Happy Chilling,

Tastybeat

Mikos, Logan Square (map)
2234 N. Sacramento Ave.
(between Humboldt Blvd & Lyndale St)
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 645-9664

Mikos, Bucktown (map)
1846 N. Damen Ave.
(between Churchill St & Moffat St)
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 645-9664

Featured Tastybeat gem Giles Schnierle of the Great American Cheese Collection has turned Tastybeat on to the greatness of Prairie Pure's Butterkase, a local artisan cow's milk cheese. Butterkase results from a wholesome collaboration. Three farm families in Illinois collaborate to supply their fresh milk and expertise to master cheese maker Bruce Workman of Wisconsin. The cows live in comfort, receive a diet that is hormone-free and based mainly on homegrown forages and grains, and have access to pasture during the summer.

Workman then produces a supple, smooth cheese that's sweet, nutty, with hints of fruit--pure magic if you ask us. Tastybeat loves to cook with this high-butterfat cheese for its flavor, texture, and nice melting qualities. And at room temperature, Butterkase is a dreamy spread on crackers or fresh bread.

You can buy Butterkase (among other artisan delights) at the best kept cheese secret in town: The Great American Cheese Collection warehouse sale at 4727 S. Talman (between Western and California Avenues) in Chicago on August 9th and August 23rd from 9am to 1pm. When you visit the warehouse on either of these dates, mention Tastybeat for your exclusive 15% Tastybeat discount on all cheese purchases. Ummm, good!

The Victoria Alexander, courtesy of the Violet Hour's Stephen Cole

• 2 oz. Spanish brandy
• 3/4 oz. Liquor 43
• 1 sprig of chocolate mint
• orange bitters

Stir with ice; Garnish with a chocolate mint sprig

The Fox Trot, courtesy of the Violet Hour's Stephen Cole

• 1 oz Tanqueray
• 1 oz pimms
• 3/4 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• muddled strawberry
• 1 sprig of apple mint

Shake and strain; Garnish with 1 apple mint leaf (floated)

Algiers in the Mourning, courtesy of the Violet Hour's Stephen Cole

• 2 oz Chinaco Blanco (or any high-end, un-aged tequila)
• 3/4 lime juice
• 1/2 Curacao or Cointreau
• 1/2 simple syrup
• 1 sprig of ginger mint

Shake and strain into a tall glass with ice; Top with 7up (if you like it sweet) or soda water (if you like it tart); Garnish with Angustura bitters and a ginger mint sprig

Understated and stylish, Dorado is a lovely dinner destination on West Foster Avenue. Owner and Chef Luis Perez has created a delightful BYOB, now four year's running. With this unique restaurant, Perez has blended together his Mexican heritage with his passion for French-style cooking to produce a fine-dining experience--full of wonderful surprises, never stuffy, always interesting. Dorado's menu reflects Perez' creativity, offering distinctive dishes that truly excite.

Luis keeps things fresh at Dorado with a rotating list of specials. On our visit, we indulged in an outstanding grilled beef tenderloin served over chipotle-mashed potatoes, with grilled asparagus and wild mushrooms in a gaujillo pepper sauce. On the regular menu, Perez' Duck Nachos are a must-try! Tortilla chips are topped with smoked duck, melted Chihuahua cheese, Bermuda onions, guacamole, pickled jalapeño, and lime cream sauce. Delicious. Also try the popular Crunchy Almond-Crusted Trout. Served over sun dried fruit couscous, grilled asparagus, and caramelized plantains--and topped with a spicy coconut cream sauce--this special dish should not be missed.

Happy Feasting,

Tastybeat

Dorado
2301 W. Foster (map)
Chicago IL
773.561.3780
Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday: 5-10 p.m.
Friday-Saturday: 5-11 p.m.
Sunday: 4-9 p.m.
Closed Monday

Join Rodney Alex of featured Tastybeat gem Juicy Wine Co. for their $5 brunch. That's right: each menu item is just five smackers! Options include Juicy eggs, Harold's chicken and waffles, the Hippie breakfast (yogurt, fresh fruit and homemade granola), and--of course--Bloodies and Mimosas. Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays 11am-3pm.

And when you're looking for a great evening lounge for drinks, dining, and cool tunes, stop in to Juicy Wine Co. (now with a cozy outdoor patio). At Juicy, the wine, sake, and food are several notches above most late night options in Chicago.

Keep your eyes peeled for this delightful little restaurant tucked away on the west side of Western Avenue in Lincoln Square. This gem is a worthy favorite among local Thais and Thai food lovers in Chicago. Husband and wife team Chai and Vanna Gumtrontip own and run Spoon Thai, offering their authentic Thai family recipes seven days a week.

Vanna worked in her sister's restaurant in Bangkok for 20 years before moving to Chicago where she and Chai have created their exceptionally tasty eatery. When you visit Spoon Thai, Chai will greet you in the front. Proud and passionate about his home country and the food his wife prepares, Chai makes eating at Spoon Thai an all-around delightful experience.

Spoon Thai has two menus--one in English, the other in Thai. The English menu includes well-known American dishes like curries, noodles, spring rolls, etc. But for varied and nuanced flavors typically not found outside of Thailand, be sure to request the Thai menu (translated into English). Here you will select from a list of lesser-known, exceptional (and mighty spicy) authentic dishes. The creations on this menu are simply outstanding.

Tastybeat highly recommends these Spoon Thai dishes, perfect light summer fare:

• Miang Kham (Thai menu) - Crispy shredded coconut, dried shrimp, red onion, ginger, lime and roasted peanuts all on a bed of lettuce and served with a traditional Thai dressing.
• Somtum Salad (English menu) - A very Spicy salad with green papaya, string beans, tomato, carrots, peanuts, chili pepper and lime juice.

And don't miss these two wonderful Spoon Thai specialties, available only upon request (not listed on either menu):

• Soft shell crab in curry sauce
• Thai noodles with Thai curry and fresh vegetables

Also, be sure to checkout tastybeat.com for a terrific fresh fruit vinegar.

Happy Dining,

Tastybeat

Spoon Thai
4608 N. Western Avenue (map)
Chicago, IL
P: 773.769.1173

Hours:
Monday-Sunday 11:00am-10:00pm

Karen Rose, owner of featured Tastybeat Gem City Olive, imports A L'Olivier Framboise vinegar from France. This thick vinegar is infused with fresh raspberry pulp, making it a beautiful bold magenta. Paired with your favorite olive oil, L'Olivier Framboise makes a refreshing summer vinaigrette. L'Olivier suggests blending L'Olivier Framboise with olive oil, basil, fig, and shaved parmesan over fresh greens for the perfect summer salad. A L'Olivier Framboise is also ideal in a salmon or pork marinade, where the intense, bright fruit burst will enhance your summer grill just so. This vinegar is extremely popular, be sure to call ahead (773.878.5408) to reserve your bottle!

Louie's is a clean, fun diner where you can enjoy breakfast all day and listen to Louie banter with the regulars. At Louie's, folks of all kinds come to eat and socialize. You'll see boots and hard caps, suits, moms and kids. With exposed brick walls, classic Formica tabletops, and inexpensive fare, this true-blue joint is a definitive gem.

Starting at 5am you can grab a seat at the counter, a booth or table. When you visit, do not miss Louie's famously fluffy, generous stack of pancakes. In addition to pancakes, Louie serves up great eggs, potatoes, burgers, and more. And if you have a hankering for ham, be sure to try Louie's on-the-bone freshly sliced baked ham. The sometimes sassy but always friendly waitresses will deliver your order in a flash.

Happy Dining,

Tastybeat

Louie's Grill
7422 W. Madison Street (map)
Forest Park, IL 60130
708.488.0836
Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 5am-4pm
Sunday: 6am-3pm

Looking to add pizazz to a simple rice dish or zing to your favorite barbecue sauce? Consider Korean dried red pepper threads. Sweet and spicy, these finely-sliced dried red peppers are a unique and delicious gem for your spice rack. The threads also work perfectly in salsa, marinades, and just about any Asian dish. To get yours, visit featured Tastybeat gem Super H Mart or any well-stocked Korean market. This wonderful ingredient is just $2.00 per ounce.

Owner Tracy Kellner opened her gourmet shop to offer high-quality cheeses, wines, bread, meats, and other specialty items for those looking to create a special picnic or last minute dinner on a busy night. Tracy, always on hand at one of her two store locations, is happy to help you create a tasty meal and suggest a perfect wine compliment.

Tastybeat recommends some delicious Provenance options for your 4th of July or next picnic:

• Blu Mont Bandaged Cheddar from Blue Mound Wisconsin. Aged for one year, this locally-made cheddar has wonderful notes of hazelnut and tropical fruit. But supply is limited, so get it while you can!
• To go along with your cheddar, try some spicy Molinari salami and sweet/hot peppadew peppers. Consider grabbing one of Tracy's goat cheese logs to squeeze into the peppadew pepper center for an added flavor boost.
• Try one of the always delicious Eat Green Foods sandwiches. Eat Green sandwiches are made with local, organic, or sustainable products and packaged in biodegradable wrappings. Tastybeat recommends the fresh mozzarella or roast beef.
• To round out your meal, ask Tracy to recommend one of her fun sparkling wines...perhaps a cava?
• And last but not least, be sure to add DAS Caramels to your basket. These locally made caramels will not disappoint and offer the perfect ending to your summer supper on a blanket.

Happy Picnicking!

Tastybeat

Provenance Food and Wine, Logan Square
2528 N. California (map)
Chicago
773-384-0699
Hours
Tuesday-Saturday 12:00pm-9:00pm
Sunday-Monday 12:00pm-7:00pm

Provenance Food and Wine, Lincoln Square
2312 W. Leland Avenue (map)
Chicago
773-784-2314
Hours
Tuesday-Friday 12:00pm-8:00pm
Saturday 11:00am-8:00pm
Sunday 12:00pm-7:00pm
Closed Monday

Want to add pizzazz to almost any meal? Try Lizano Sauce, popular in Costa Rica. A favorite Tastybeat restaurant and featured gem, Irazu, serves this zippy condiment at every table. This all-natural sauce is packed with onions, carrots, cucumber, chili pepper, cauliflower, molasses, salt, and spices. Tastybeat suggests using Lizano Sauce to enhance your summer-grilled chicken, pork, and beef, or on tamales with rice and beans.

This slightly sweet and tangy sauce gets its name from Prospero Lizano who created this sauce in Costa Rica in 1920. Lizano's salsa took the country by storm and soon became a national staple. In fact, this zippy condiment is now as ubiquitous on the Costa Rican table as the salt and peppershakers we North Americans are so accustomed to.

You can purchase Lizano Sauce at Irazu, La Unica market on Devon, or any well-stocked Latin market. A 700ml bottle will run you about $5.50, so grab two bottles while you're at it....you'll soon be addicted to the kick.

La Unica
1515 W. Devon (map)
773-274-7788
Hours
Monday - Saturday 8:00am-9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am-5:00pm

Irazú
1865 N. Milwaukee Avenue (map)
773-252-5687
Hours
Monday-Saturday 11:30am-9:30pm
Closed Sundays