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Culinary Adventures Chicago Style
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This month, we decided to drive to Chicago to enjoy a culinary weekend adventure. Chicago shines with its world-class museums, various shopping districts, vibrant neighborhoods, and lively nightlife, but we wanted to find its hidden gems to give you the real scoop. As soon as we arrived, we found ourselves involved in a Pop-Up Event and then strolling the Riverwalk amidst boat cruises and kayakers. Award winning food offerings like José André’s Jaleo enticed us to celebrate with Spanish style Tapas. While Bongiorno’s Italian Pizza welcomed us with outdoor dining after enjoying an innovative show at the Goodman Theater. Add some fireworks, a Chicago-style hot dog stop, and not to be missed Chicago’s Original Rainbow Cone for a snack. Come along with us and see how much fun you can have without breaking your budget in Chicago, that great Midwestern City on the Magnificent Mile.
Quick Suggestions for Planning Your Weekend Trip
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What is Primal Kitchen?
Primal Kitchen is an American food brand that specializes in ingredients, condiments, and sauces. Their specialty is making organic, nutritious versions of specific condiments. The company is located and headquartered in Oxnard, California. Kraft/Heinz purchased the company in 2019 The Primal Kitchen™ team has built an amazing portfolio of the world’s best-tasting, health-enhancing, real-food pantry staples.
For More Information See:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Primal Kitchen
Primal Kitchen Pop Up next to the Tribune Tower – at 401 N. Michigan Ave. – Chicago
What is a pop-up food experience?
By embracing the pop-up concept, restaurants or food companies maintain their presence and provide unique food experiences, while adhering to safety guidelines. Pop-ups proved to be a versatile and resilient strategy, offering customers a taste of their favorite establishments or foods in a new way.
Chickpea Chicken Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
Dial up the heat to capture the spicy flavor you like.
About the Recipe: Chickpeas or garbanzo beans are round legumes that are used to make hummus and have a nutty flavor. This recipe combines them with tender cooked spicy diced chicken and plenty of crunchy veggies, like red peppers, red onions, and celery. Lightly toss the salad with refreshing lime cilantro dressing and serve on a bed of mixed lettuce greens. It’s a super recipe for lunch or summer dinner.
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Chickpea Chicken Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
See More Primal Kitchen Pop Up Info
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Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana and Pizzeria
‘Tom Bongiorno ‘s dream of opening a restaurant in Chicago came true when Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana Pizzeria opened 13 years ago on the main floor of the River Plaza condominium building at 405 N. Wabash Ave. He wanted the menu to help customers feel like special guests by offering authentic Italian dishes at a reasonable price.
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He teamed with Chef Nino Coronas, designing an extensive menu of homemade Italian inspired dishes, filled with high quality ingredients, traditional methods and rich flavors.
‘Today, Bongiorno’s restaurant creates a cozy atmosphere with rustic furniture and views of a busy kitchen. The smiling staff makes you feel like an invited guest or part of the family, offering you food that makes you believe that you are really in Italy.
Stop in for a quick lunch or dinner. They’re just steps off Michigan Avenue at the rear of the Wrigley Building.
When the weather is nice, dine outside across from the River Walk. Bongiorno’s, one of Chicago’s Italian treasures, has been part of the community for 13 years. They offer classic Italian dishes and creative gourmet meals, accompanied with warm smiles and a downhome style. Their menu blends classic Italian recipes with fresh trendy touches. Whether you want Elegant Rolled Eggplant, Caprese Salad, Hearty Italian Beef Sandwiches, perfectly seasoned pizza, or creamy pasta, their Chef knows what makes an Italian dish really delicious: high quality ingredients, authentic recipes, and customer-caring service.
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**Discover why Steve Dolinsky from ABC7 and Chicago Magazine enjoys dining at Bongiorno’s.
Gustosa Pizza at Bongiorno’s
The freshly baked crisp crust of this pizza, covered with creamy, gooey cheese that stretches with every bite, is dotted with ricotta, prosciutto cotto, and shreds of basil. It’s an explosion of Italian flavors with every bite.
Where is it located?
Bongiorno’s.
405 N. Wabash Ave Chicago, IL 60611
bongiornoschicago.com
Phone number – (312) 755-1255
https://www.chicago-restaurants-events.com/restaurants/bongiornos‘
Bongiorno’s Italian Beef Sandwich
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‘The Italian Beef Sandwich, which originated in Chicago, sports a crunchy hoagie bun stuffed with juicy, falling-apart, tender beef. Nestled within the slow-cooked beef, you’ll discover pickled, giardiniera vegetables and savory soft slices of provolone cheese. A sandwich to thrill an Italian heart!
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Sightseeing Cruise:
Discover Chicago’s sparkling skyline from Lake Michigan on a sightseeing cruise.
See the City Skyline:
Enjoy the fabulous views of Chicago’s skyline and various attractions such as Adler Planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Soldier’s Field, the iconic Willis Tower, and the John Hancock Center.
Oak Street Beach on Chicago’s Lake Michigan waterfront.
I enjoyed the informative architectural cruise, but nothing compares to being out on the open water, watching the sun set over the Chicago skyline as the night comes alive with lights, and the fireworks are reflected from under you in the water.
Savor a mouthwatering meal while listening to music played by a live DJ. Sip on unlimited coffee and tea while gazing out at sights like Navy Pier, Grant Park, and Willis Tower.
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Have a Delightful Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner on a Boat.
The great thing about taking one of these cruises, is that you get to choose between lunch, dinner, or a weekend brunch option.
Enjoy 360-degree views from the observation deck while cruising on Lake Michigan. Experience panoramic views of Chicago’s memorable and distinctive skyline.
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Orange Ricotta Scones
About the Recipe: These scones are tender with a light crumble and some buttery layers, that have just a touch of sweet orange flavor. A light, sweet glaze creates a smooth coating, reminding you of a bright, sunny day. Treat yourself to this easy-to-make breakfast or high tea pastry for a special sweet treat.
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Orange Ricotta Scones
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Sausage Sandwich Italian Style
A great take-along sandwich for a picnic.
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About the Recipe: This classic Italian sandwich is filled with caramelized peppers and onions, swirled around spicy warm Italian sausage, topped with melty Provolone cheese, and enclosed with crunchy slices of toasted Italian bread. It’s a game day or casual meal to serve that everyone loves.
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Orange Ricotta Scones
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Sausage Sandwich Italian Style
See More Chicago Sightseeing Attractions
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What are Portillo’s Hot Dogs?
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The humbling start of Portillo’s, (first known as “The Dog House”), won the loyalty of Midwesterners across the nation. Chicago-natives are a passionate breed of folks, and the longstanding history of the famous dogs, as we know them, has captured the hearts of millions.
Vienna Beef hot dogs have a rich history dating back to 1893 in Chicago. Portillo’s proudly used Vienna Beef hot dogs. Their menu states that their hot dogs are finished with a “perfectly steamed poppy seed bun, which helps to achieve the perfect amount of chewiness and gumminess without being soggy
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Their perfect accompaniment of condiments include: mustard, relish, celery salt, freshly-chopped onions, sliced red ripe tomatoes, a kosher pickle, and sport peppers with a steamed poppy bun on their original Chicago dog.
The reason Portillo’s Chicago dog is so delicious is that it gives you a little sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami taste.
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Classic Chicago Hot Dog
See More of Portillo’s Hot Dogs
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About the Goodman Theatre
Goodman Theatre, Chicago’s oldest and largest not-for-profit theater, has won international renown for the quality of productions, the depth and diversity of artistic leadership, and the excellence of its many community and educational programs. They are committed to producing both classic and contemporary works, giving full voice to a wide range of artists and visions.
It is a professional theater company located in Chicago’s Loop. As a major part of the Chicago theatre scene, it is the city’s oldest, currently active nonprofit theater organization. Part of its present theater complex occupies the landmark Harris and Selwyn Theaters property.
Peach Berry Crumble Squares
A sweet way to celebrate Savannah at the Goodman Theatre.
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About our Recipe: The South is known for their delicious, sweet crumble desserts. These squares are filled with peach and strawberry fillings and covered with buttery, oat crumbs, which form the bottom crust and topping. It’s a perfect dessert to serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Peach Berry Crumble Squares
See More of the Goodman Theatre
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What is Jaleo?
The Jaleo restaurant brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain with a menu reflecting the rich regional diversity of classical and contemporary Spanish cuisine, under the direction of renowned chef Jose Andres. Jaleo offers an impressive assortment of tapas, the traditional small dishes of Spain, as well as savory paellas, superb sangrias and a fine selection of Spanish wines and Sherries in a festive, casual atmosphere.
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Who is Chef Jose Andres?
José Ramón Andrés Puerta is a Spanish and American chef and restaurateur. Born in Spain, he moved to the United States in the early 1990s and since then, he has opened restaurants in several American cities. He has won a number of awards, both for his cooking (including several James Beard Awards), and his humanitarian work. He is a professor as well as the founder of the Global Food Institute at George Washington University.
Founded: World Central Kitchen – Helps to set up emergency kitchens and support feeding people who are fighting to survive natural or human caused disasters around the world.
For More Information: See Wikipedia
Chicken Croquetas
Chef Jose Andres special appetizer.
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About the Recipe: Chicken Croquettes are crispy, breaded, deep-fried finger shaped or balls of chicken, with a flavorful, smooth white cream sauce. They are crispy on the outside yet juicy and creamy soft on the inside. They are often served as an appetizer.
See Original Recipe from: https://joseandres.com/recipes/chicken-croquetas/
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Chicken Croquetas
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What is Eataly Chicago?
Eataly Chicago is a place where you can eat, shop, and learn about high-quality, authentic Italian cuisine. Featuring an energetic marketplace with more than 10,000 products, two restaurants, cafes, and to-go counters, and an interactive cooking school, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Take the learning experience further with their full calendar of events.
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Where is it located?
43 East Ohio Street, Chicago, Illinois 60611
Sun-Thu, 7 AM – 10 PM, Fri-Sat, 7 AM – 11 PM
Phone:(312) 521-8700
Tiny Toy Box Cherry Tomato Salad
About the Recipe: Fresh yellow and red cherry tomatoes marinate in sweet balsamic vinegar and oregano dressing, adding a sparkle to your summer supper. Diced green chilies or hot peppers join the party adding a warm spicy tingle.
pdf for Copy of Recipe – Tiny Toy Box Cherry Tomato Salad
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The Burdick Cookie at L.A. Burdick
Can’t decide between getting a cookie or a candy bar? The chocolate-and-walnut-crammed version at this New Hampshire import will spare you from having to choose. burdickchocolate.com
https://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/April-2020/The-Four-Best-Chocolate-Chip-Cookies/
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Get a Taste of France in Chicago at L.A. Burdick Chocolates
Chicago is known for its classics, and although L.A. Burdick is new to the Windy City food scene, this shop needs to be on your bucket list. It’s an elegant, yet comfortable, environment to unwind and enjoy the care, that L.A. Burdick has put into its mastery of chocolate.
Loaded with Chips – Chocolate Chip Cookies
About the Recipe: It is amazing how delicious these chocolate chip cookies are! Every crisp bite reveals soft rich chocolate flavor and various textures from crunchy to chocolaty smooth. Give them a try!
pdf for Copy of Recipe by: Nick Malgieri in “Cookies Unlimited”, 2000, Harper Collins Publishers.
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The Original Rainbow Cone
Walk on the Magnificent Mile
Embedded in the vibrant culture of Chicago since 1926, we’re thrilled to introduce our acclaimed five-flavor ice cream cone at our new location inside Gino’s East on the Magnificent Mile. Discover the irresistible tastes of the five flavors that compose our iconic Rainbow Cone. Each layer is a tribute to enduring quality and a rich Chicagoan tradition, making it an unparalleled indulgence for every occasion. Come savor an enchanting journey through our colorful spectrum of flavors, right here in the heart of the city.
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Entrance to the Original Rainbow Cone on East Superior just east of Michigan Avenue.
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A Chicago tradition for over 95 years. We still stack the same five flavors today: Chocolate, Strawberry, Palmer House, Pistachio, & Orange Sherbet. We slice (not scoop) these flavors into a cone or a cup.
Nick the Rainbow Cone Expert interview
Make your own version of the Rainbow Cone or Cup
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