BOI’S LIFE Poets and philosophers talk about spring as time of renewal or rebirth. I grew up in Chicago, for me spring is the time of year when dog crap melts and you bring in the folding chairs that saved your parking space. Fall is the true season of new beginnings. As a kid, fall meant back to school shopping and that meant new clothes, new shoes, new books and new teachers. By springtime all that stuff would be messy and dirty, but I’d always wait for the next fall when everything would be shiny and new. I’m still like that. Fall is when all the interesting stuff happens. All the great movies come out in the last three months of the year. The new television series start in fall. The theater season begins. No more looking at pale chicken-flesh legs protruding from shorts. Men have gotten past the spring paleness, early summer sunburns and peeling skin. Everyone looks taut and tanned. Fall means that musicians stop performing in massive arenas and outdoor venues and return to concert halls and clubs. If Mother Nature had intended for us to enjoy music and theater outdoors she wouldn’t have created mosquitoes. There is one thing I miss at the end of summer; the wonderful frozen treats from paleta carts. About the only thing that makes a hot, humid day bearable is enjoying a tamarind or watermelon frozen treat on a stick, then a dip in the water. That reminds me, fall also brings new creations from Chicago’s chefs. The restaurant industry gets particularly inventive in the fall. Perhaps it’s the cooler weather making those hot kitchens a little more comfortable. All I know is that after a season of salads and light eating, I’m ready to chow down on some comfort food. Damn the calories, I can always hide the extra padding under an oversized sweater. This week we take a look at some of the upcoming events and changes that await in the fields of entertainment and food service. You might want to take some notes, so open your brand new pencil case and take out a trusty old Ticonderoga number 2.
3708 N. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60613 773.975.0264 boieditorial@aol.com Publisher Editor
Mike Macharello Rick Karlin
Layout & Design Roberto Balderas
JR Garcia
Advertising Bill Gubrud, Manager Freddie Bain Korey Neibarger
bill@boimagzine.com freddie@boimagazine.com korey@boimagazine.com
Photographers Freddie Bain Frank Failing George St. George
Korey Neibarger Oliver Aguilar Steven A. Richards
Editorial Contributors Harry Taint Glen Plaid
Gregg Shapiro
Cover Christian Chavez
VIEW BOI ONLINE AT www.boimagazine.com BOI Magazine, Inc. © 2000−2010 All rights reserved
Spot light: Jake Shears Back to school: fall dining fall dining contd stage and screen stage and screen contd Check it out dining out waz happening in the know, on the go BARS & CLUBS DIRECTORY
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by Rick Karlin
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t may not feel like it, but fall is just around the corner. That means local area eateries are making the most of what warm weather we have left and are gearing up for new menus taking advantage of the harvest. Many restaurants try to lure us back into the habit of dining out after a summer of relaxation by offerings tastings and classes. Take advantage of these, as they are usually great bargains It’s Back to School Time
SushiSamba Rio, 504 N. Wells, continues its interactive Sushi & Sake 101 classes led by Sake Sommelier Hayes Swoop. The classes offer those participating the opportunity to sample a variety of SushiSamba’s 60+ sake offerings as they are paired with delectable bites. The evening concludes with a guided “do-it-yourself,” lesson led by Sushi Chef Shigeru Kitano, who will demonstrate a step-by-step tutorial for making sushi at home. The classes are held on Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. on September 14, October 12 & November 9. Classes, with a maximum of 20 participants, are $75 per person. For reservations call 312.595.2300 or visit sushisamba.com. Executive Chef Luca Corazzina has announced a new schedule of interactive cooking classes at his restaurant, 312 Chicago. Corazzina limits the class to18 guests each class held in his exhibition kitchen on the corner of LaSalle and Randolph. Priced at $45 per person, each class offers lessons on the preparation, butchering and saucing of popular Italian dishes. The classes take place from 12 to 2 pm on alternate Saturdays and include lunch, recipe cards and a 250 ml. bottle of 312 Olive Oil, a line of Extra Virgin Olive Oil pressed in Italy especially for 312 Chicago. Upcoming classes include; Italian fish dishes on September 25, Carne Perfetta (prepare braised osso buco and pollo saltimbocca) October 9, Dress It Up (making popular Italian Salads and antipasti), on October 23, Due Risotti (prepare two different styles of risotto) on November 13 and Holiday Foods (traditional dishes that are always popular during the holidays in Italy) on December 4. Reserve a place in a class by calling 312.696.2420. 10 boi
School Lunch
Now here’s a school lunch program that Michelle Obama would approve of. Epic, 112 W. Hubbard, has initiated a lunch series that combines a cooking demonstration and leisurely lunch to an intimate group of guests. Each Thursday class will begin with a 25-minute kitchen demonstration of prepping, cooking and plating the featured ingredient. Guests will then sit down at the communal table to enjoy an appetizer, entrée and glass of wine. As a takeaway, each guest will leave with house-made cookies and recipe cards. Held from 12- 1:30 p.m., each class costs $29 per person. Upcoming classes include September 16-octopus, October 21-short ribs and November 18-gnocchi. Classes are limited to eight guests and reservations are required. Call 312.222.4940 or go to epicrestaurantchicago.com.
Classes are in Session!
D.O.C. Wine Bar Chicago, 2602 N. Clark, welcomes Brian Bostwick of Spring Mountain Vineyard for a private tasting and wine dinner on Tuesday, September 14. Five of the estate’s premium wines will be paired with five courses. The fee to attend is $60 per guest. Call 773.883.5101 or go to docwinebarchicago.com. Potter’s Lounge’s beverage series launched this summer, and was a big hit. The interactive tasting class will take a turn in the direction of beer this fall, offering patrons a chance to learn from some of the industry’s most lauded brew-masters, Each Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m. will feature a new brewery at the speakeasy-themed lounge in the Palmer House Hilton. Classes will take guests on a step-by-step tasting journey, focusing on the education of the entire brewing process unique to each represented company as they sip on unique flavor profiles. A specialty menu of bites ranging from $5-$12 will be offered to guests featuring items such as truffled
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potato chips, sweet chili wings and bruschetta. The series line-up for September includes: Samuel Adams (September 16), Leinenkugel Brewing Company (September 23) and Half Acre Beer Company (September 30.) Reservations are recommended, 312.917.3404 potterschicago.com for the $20 per person class. Geja’s Café, 340 West Armitage, invites guests to enjoy a fondue dinner paired with the best of the Hess Wine Collection on Monday, September 13 as part of Geja’s Café’s ongoing 2010 Winemaker Dinner series. The evening begins with a 6:30 reception followed by dinner at 7:00 with a lively discussion of the evening’s wines. The four-course dinner features Geja’s house Salad, Cheese Fondue, Beef Tenderloin, Chicken & Jumbo Shrimp Entree, and Flaming Chocolate Fondue for dessert. Each course will be paired with the appropriate allyou-can-drink wine. Cost for each dinner is $50 per person, which includes tax, and gratuity. Reservations are required, call 773.281.9101 or go to gejascafe.com.
A-V Club!
After four years and 20,000 guests served, the team behind the NYC Food Film Festival comes to the windy city to present the Chicago Food Film Festival, taking place September 24-25 at the MCA Warehouse. Documentaries, features, short films and food combine for a multi-sensory, full-bodied experience. Nuggets of fried cheese curds, corn dogs, and other fair foods are served with the film “Eat Your Fill” on September 24. The film, directed by Mark Irving, features a man who eats every menu item that is fried and/or on a stick at the Wisconsin State Fair. For dessert, special ice creams are paired with “The Death & Life of Ice Cream”, directed by Orrin Zucker. Order on-line at chicagofoodfilmfestival.com.
Holiday Vacation
Steve’s Deli, 354 W. Hubbard, can cater a Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur meal for the high holidays. The Rosh Hashanah menu celebrates with family favorites such as gefilte fish, beef kreplach, roast turkey with challah stuffing, honey glazed salmon and apple and dried cherry noodle kugel, cheesecake (direct from NYC’s Carnegie Deli, nu?) and rugelach
are some of the dessert available. The “break-thefast” menu for Yom Kippur offers an assortment of traditional dishes including: cheese blintz soufflé, smoked fish, tuna, chicken and egg salads, lox and bagels. Trays are plated and ready to go. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur orders are accepted up to 48 hours in advance. To place an order, call 312.467.6868 or go to stevesdeli.com. In Other Digestive News Smoke Daddy, 1804 W. Division in Wicker Park, has a smoked meal package for football fans. Whether hosting a scream-at-the-screen house party or a tailgate bash, there are many on-the-go options. Smoke Daddy’s Pigskin Party packages (prepared in quantities of 10) include: spare or baby back ribs, a choice of two pulled meats (brisket, chicken or pork), two side dishes (smoked pit beans, cornbread, mac and cheese, potato salad, cole slaw or housemade BBQ chips.) The Pigskin price starts at $17.25 per person. Order at least 3 days in advance at 773.772.6656 or at smokedaddy.com. Zocalo Restaurant and Tequila Bar, 358 W. Ontario, now offers a late night prix fixe for $30, and has live music to boot on Friday and Saturday evenings until midnight. Call 312.302.9977 or go to zocalochicago. com…In the spirit of “Mad Men” and the threemartini lunch, Sable Kitchen & Bar, 505 N. State, offers a flight of three gin martinis (three four oz. pours) at a wallet-friendly $10. For reservations, call 312.755.9704…Fasta Pasta at the French Market, 131 N. Clinton, allows the customers to choose their pasta and sauce from a variety of daily offerings. The meal is cooked to order in a recyclable container in less than two minutes. For more information, call 312.575.0306 or go to chicagofrenchmarket.com…. Deleece Grill Pub, 3313 N. Clark, has a bunch of new special deals. On Sundays it’s $20 for a three-course meal, Tuesdays and Wednesdays it’s half off all beers and half off all wine bottles on Thursdays. boi 13
by Gregg Shapiro & Rick Karlin
ON THE CONCERT STAGE
November concert highlights include Cake Chicago presenting Elias Krell, Shoes For The fall concert season gets off to a colorful Mabel and Cat & Mouse Convention on Nov. start in September with a number of exciting 6 at The Red Line Tap… shows including Margaret Cho on October 16 Diana Jones on Nov. 12 at the Chicago Theater in her “Cho Dependent” at 8 p.m. and Janis Ian tour, which features America’s favorite fag hag with special guest Natalia performing her new comedy songs…Alison Zukerman on Nov. 14 at 7 Arngrim a.k.a. Nellie Oleson on “Little House p.m., both at The Old Town on the Prairie”. in “Confessions of a Prairie School of Folk Music… Bitch,” Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. at Davenport’s, 1383 On Nov. 15, the legendary N. Milwaukee… Out Bloc Party front man Kele Meshell Ndegeocello Melissa Manchester performs at 9 p.m. on Sept. 11 at Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee… Homolatte: Queer Words performs at 8 p.m. at S.P.A.C.E.… and, of course, Stephen Leonard continues to host Unpugged: & Music, hosted by Scott Free, presents Cin An Acoustic Concert Series, Tuesdays at 9 p.m. Salach and Karen Mooney on Sept. 21 at 7:30 at The Wild Pug, 4810 N. Broadway. p.m. at Big Chicks/Tweet, 5024 N. Sheridan… On Sept. 22, S.P.A.C.E., 1245 Chicago Ave. in ON THE THEATRICAL STAGE Evanston, welcomes out singer/songwriter The fall season boasts some interesting new Chris Pureka with Kelsey Wild at 8 p.m. works, revivals of audience favorites and other entries that defy classification. The brilliant Brandi Carlile performs at 8 p.m. at S.P.A.C.E. on Oct. 13, followed the next The much anticipated conversion of the former night by Edie Carey and Rose Cousins at 8 Drury Lane Water Tower space (175 E. Chestnut) p.m…Flesh Hungry Dog presents a special into the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Halloween Show on Oct. 15 at 9 p.m., featuring Place will be inaugurated with Broadway In Lettercamp and others at Jackhammer, 6406 Chicago’s presentation of “An Evening with N. Clark… Another impressive pair of back. Sutton Foster”, running September 23 - 26. to.back shows by out musicians includes Foster, the breakout star of “Thoroughly Meshell Ndegeocello on Oct. 16 at 7 & 10 Modern Millie”, “Shrek” and “The Drowsy p.m. and Catie Curtis on Oct. 17 at 4 p.m., Chaperone” will present a one woman show. both at The Old Town School of Folk Music … More tough choices occur on Oct. 22 when Other upcoming Broadway in Chicago shows Bob Mould is at The Old Town School of include: “Rock of Ages” September 21-October Folk Music at 8 p.m. and the Mayne Stage, 3 (featuring the music of Journey, Styx, Pat 1328 W. Morse, presents Amy & Freddy’s 15th Anniversary Celebration concert on Oct. 22 and Benatar and other ‘80’s bands.) American Idol’s Constantine Maroulis stars at the 23… The month closes out with The Weepies Bank of America Theatre; “The Lion King”, which features a same sex couple in its latest September 29-November at the Cadillac Palace music vid. at S.P.A.C.E. on Theatre; “Wicked” December 1-January 23 Oct. 30 and an evening with at the Cadillac Palace Theatre and “White omnisexual musician Emilie Christmas” in a limited run, December 15Autumn at 8 p.m. at Metro, January 2 at the Bank of America Theatre. 3730 N. Clark, on Oct. 31 After the holidays, the spring season of BiC 14 boi
takes off with “Les Misérables” (February 2 – 27) at the Cadillac Palace, “Working” (February 15 – May 8) at the Broadway Playhouse, “Hair” (March 8 – 20), at the Oriental Theatre, “The Merchant of Venice” (March 15 – 2 with F. Murray Abraham then Carrie Fisher’s “Wishful Drinking” (April 5 – 17) and “Next to Normal” (April 26 – May 8) all at the Bank of America Theatre. Then a Sutton Foster couple of off-season shows; “Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles” (February 8 – 1) and “Spring Awakening” (May 3 – 8), followed by a summer mainstay, “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” (June 28 – July 10) all at the Oriental Theatre. Steppenwolf Theatre Company has kicked off its 2010-2011 season with “Detroit” featuring ensemble member Laurie Metcalf (“Roseanne”, “Big Bang Theory”), running through November 7. The remaining season includes Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” featuring ensemble members Tracy Letts and Amy Morton with Carrie Coon and Madison Dirks, “Sex with Strangers” and Lanford Wilson’s “The Hot L Baltimore” and “Middlesex.”… Steppenwolf’s 2nd annual “Behind the Curtain” fundraiser will be held on Saturday, November 13, 2010 at 7 pm at the Chicago Cultural Center. The event allows those attending to get a closeup look at costumes from Steppenwolf’s most popular productions – and even try them on! A silent auction will feature rare Steppenwolf memorabilia and other oneDetroit of-a-kind items. Tickets start at $150 per person and are currently available. 16 boi
“A Chorus Line” leaps, turns and taps its way to center stage at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire on Sunday, September 12 through October 31… The Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway, hosts “Mark and Homer Like This,” Sept. 9–Oct. 14. Mark Hanner Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and Homer Marrs met and fell in like on the gay chat site Bear411.com. It was humor at first “woof” and decided to eke out a comedy revue to see what happens when two musically inclined red-bearded homos try to entertain each other in front of an audience.… Goodman Theatre celebrates its 10th season in Chicago’s North Loop Theatre District with “Candide”, Voltaire’s effervescent, adventure brought to life with nearly 30 songs in Leonard Bernstein’s glorious score. Candide runs September 17 – October 24… “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” makes its regional premiere at Theatre at the Center, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, IN, September 9-October 10… Edward Albee’s “At Home At The Zoo” October 1-31, opens Victory Gardens’ season at the Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln. A Reasonable Facsimile Theatre Company extends its popular series; “Classic TV ReRuns”, seen every third Tuesday of the month in Mary’s Attic Hamburger Mary’s, 5400 N Clark . The Sept. 21 show is “Women Gone WILD!” (“The Golden Girls”, “Designing Women”, “Weeds and “The 5-Minute Absolutely Fabulous”. On Oct. 19 it’s “Halloween Happy Hour” (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer”, “The Addams Family”, “Scrubs” and “The 5-Minute Cosby Show.” Followed by “Touched By TV” (“Highway To Heaven”, “That 70’s Show”, “The Twilight Zone” and “The 5-Minute “The Flying Nun” on November 16 and “Christmas Craptacular!” (“Twas The Night Before Christmas,” “The He-Man & She-Ra Christmas Special”, “The
Star Wars Christmas Special” and “The 5-Minute Christmas Comes To Pacland” on December 16. Shows begin at 7:30 pm and tickets are $10.00.
ON THE BIG SCREEN
Fall in Chicago equals film festival season and three of the biggest festivals include movies of interest to the GLBT community.] The kick-off event of this season has got to be the September 24 Music Box, 3733 N. Southport, screening of the camp classic “Valley of the Dolls.” The highlight of this screening is special appearance by one of the film’s leading ladies, Patty Duke. A portion of the proceeds from this event benefits the Queer Film Society. The 46th Chicago International Film Festival runs from Oct. 7-21 at AMC River East 21 Theater, 322 E. Illinois and includes a screening of “Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” by out gay filmmaker and SAIC grad Apichatpong Weerasethakul… The 2010 Chicago Festival of Israeli Cinema, Oct. 21-31, features the gay.themed movie “Eyes Wide Open.”
String”; “The Topp Twins,” a doc about the lesbian sister act; “Bloomington,” another lesbian drama; the doc “Gen Silent”; the South America.set “The Fish Child”; and Aussie doc “Holding Hands,” among many more. Other theatrical films of GLBT interest for fall 2010 include “Howl,” with James Franco as gay Beat poet Allen Ginsberg… the NYC ballet drama “Black Swan,” with Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis in early December… Rom.com “Life As We Know It” from gay director Greg Berlanti of “Broken Hearts Club” and “Brothers and Sisters”. Berlanti… “Burlesque” is a diva-fest with Cher, Christina Aguilera, Christina Applegate, Alan Cumming and Stanley Tucci… “Nowhere Boy,” a dramatization of John Lennon’s youth…and the Australian musical “Bran Nue Dae.”
REELING 2010
The 29th Chicago Lesbian & Gay International Film Festival takes place from Nov. 4-13, with film screenings at various theaters. Among the titles being shown are the awardwinning lesbian military drama “A Marine Story”; Flight of the Cardinal,” from out director Robert Gaston “Open Cam” and “Two Minutes Later”.; “Handsome Harry” features an all-star cast including Steve Buscemi and Aidan Quinn; the semi-autobiographical French fiIm “I Killed My Mother”; the San Francisco-set “The Stranger in Us” and the doc “Rock Hudson: Dark and Handsome Stranger.” Coming a long way since “The Facts of Life”, Mindy Cohn stars in “Violet Tendencies,” the latest from Casper Andreas. Also screening; the romantic French drama “The boi 17
Crisp 2940 N. Broadway 773.697.7610 | 773.697.7611 crsisponline.com THE FUNKE CHICKEN Prepared with our select spices, marinade and our secret batter, the chicken is fried to golden perfection.
They aren’t kidding this is the best friend chicken, ever! You can get your choice of a whole bird for $13.95, half for $8.95; wings are about $1.50 each. That’s the basics. Then you can choose the sauce you want. If you like things sweet and tangy, go for the Seoul Sassy (subtly sweet with ginger, soy and garlic.) For a smoky taste try the BBQ or Korean BBQ. Heat things up with Bud’s Buffalo sauce, which comes in mild spicy or suicide (they aren’t kidding that last one will make smoke come out of your ears.) BABY BUDDHA, ORIGINAL BAD BOY BUDDHA and BIG BOY BUDDHA Our “mini” adaptation of a traditional Korean favorite, Bi Bim Bop, with an American twist. Your choice of three different freshly marinated and/or sautéed chilled vegetables on a bed of rice and topped off with a fried egg. Served with Buddha bowl sauce.
This is a great choice for a healthy lunch, although it goes great with a hangover as well. Basically the only difference between these is the portion size and added variety of vegetables. The $6.95 is a good basic blend of spinach bean sprouts, grated carrots and zucchini. The $8.5 is more for the average appetite and the $10.95 will fill just about anyone. Add an extra buck and they’ll throw in some tofu or meat. SUPERFLY FRITES Prepared in the tradition of pomme frites, these fries are as the name suggests, so superfly, because they are perfectly fried.
OMG! Probably the best fries in Chicago, if not the world. Skip the small ($2.25), cause you’ll want a whole mess of these. The large ($3.50) is a good start, but you may go back for even more.
O-RINGS Owen’s favorite — like Owen, they are more than a handful. These onion rings are lightly battered and a sweet compliment to any of our sandwiches or our fried chicken.
As much as I’ve loved everything else at Crisp, these, not so much.
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AMERICAN___________ Ann Sather 929 W. Belmont | 773.348.2378; 3416 N Southport | 773.404.4475; 5207 N Clark | 773.271.6627; 3411 N Broadway | 773.305.0024 These bustling hot spots, serving traditional Swedish pancake house fare, are open only for breakfast and lunch and are best known for hearty daytime offerings and their homemade cinnamon rolls. Chicago Diner 3411 N. Halsted | 773.935.6696 This world famous vegetarian restaurant offers vegan and organic offerings using the protein-based meat substitute seitan. Organic beers, wine, and spirits are also available. Crew 4804 N. Broadway | 773.784.2739 More than just a sports bar, the menu includes a variety of hamburgers, sandwiches, salads and comfort food. Deluxe Diner 6349 N Clark | 773.743.8244 Perched kitty-corner from Jackhammer and Touché, the diner’s “open 24 hours on the weekend” status is perfect after a night of dancing and partying. Featured menu items include breakfast skillets that are served anytime. Golden Nugget Family Restaurants 2720 N. Clark | 773.929.0724, 2406 W.Diversey | 773.252.8903, 1765 W. Lawrence | 773.769.6700. Established 40+ years, these places are a great place for after bar dining as they are all open 24-7, and all have free parking. The large menu is sure to please. Everything is housemade, known for fluffy buttermilk pancakes, but dinners are hearty as well. 441 N Halsted | 773.348.9696 This Boystown eatery Halsted’s Bar & Grill 3441 N Halsted | 773.348.9696 This Boystown eatery serves up a wide array of tasty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, and popular comfort food items at very reasonable prices in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Beers on tap are aplenty and the weekend brunch draws an attractive crowd. Hamburger Mary’s 5400 N Clark | 773.784.6969 This fun and popular Andersonville restaurant features a wide array of burgers and sandwiches along with an interesting selection of tasty appetizers. Horizon Café 3805 N. Broadway | 773.883.1565 This long-time popular Lakeview family restaurant serves up big portions of creative homestyle dishes as well as healthy fare (broth-based soups and whole wheat tortilla wraps) and at affordable prices. Breakfast, including multigrain pancakes and egg white
omelets, served all day long. Delivery available. IHOP 3760 N Halsted | 773.296.0048 More than a pancake house, this 24-hour Boystown institution serves up affordably priced appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees that are sure to satisfy varying after-bar wants and needs. Joey’s Brick House 1258 W. Belmont | 773.296.1300 “Thelonious Brunch” with live jazz on Sundays features menu items such as a Cajun Scramble with andouille sausage, Crab Cakes Benedict, and the Hobo Skillet. Brunch includes 15 varieties Long Island Ice Teas. Kit Kat Lounge 3700 N. Halsted | 773.525.1111 Providing the best of diva entertainment along with a full dinner menu, they offer ½-price cocktails and Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entree on Wednesdays.. M. Henry 5707 N. Clark | 773.561.1600 This popular Andersonville outpost serves breakfast and lunch daily and features creative fare such as dulce banana rumba French toast, and pancakes with warm blackberries and vanilla mascarpone cream. Additionally there are many vegetarian dishes and traditional menu items like three-cheese omelets. Minibar Café 3341 N. Halsted This attractive and sophisticated space serves gourmet bruschettas, cheeses, paninis, and entrees as well as an impressive selection of wines by the glass from around the world. The Sunday brunch is tasty and impressive. Nookies Tree 3334 N. Halsted | 773.248.9888 A regular haunt for the locals of Boystown and popular with hangover recoverers, this upscale diner serves made-to-order omelets, pancakes, waffles and crepes and other brunch fare all day. And it’s open 24 hours on weekends. Melrose Restaurant 3233 N Broadway | 773.327.2060 This Lakeview institution has been catering to the after-bar crowds for decades, serving breakfast anytime along with typical diner fare. Open 24 hours, Queens Tavern & Bistro 750 W. Cornelia | 773.248.8333 Occupying the old Cornelia’s space, this charming new eatery is warm and inviting and features a value menu filled with both bar food and entrée items as well as daily specials. Stella’s Diner 3042 N. Broadway | 773.472,9040 Fine diner dining features fresh salads, a large selection boi 19
of wraps, sandwiches, hearty entrees, pastas, and homemade deserts. Tweet 5020 N. Sheridan | 773.728.5576 This Uptown favorite uses organic ingredients when possible to create brunch items such as buckwheat pancakes, Danish beignets, Belgian waffles, and an impressive assortment of breakfast burritos and egg Benedict dishes. Wilde Bar & Restaurant 3130 N Broadway | 773.244.0404 This cozy upscale Irish pub offers a laid back and warm atmosphere and a wide ranging menu that is sure to please. Expect updated versions of pub favorites like chicken pot pie, meatloaf dinner, fish & chips, burgers and salads. ASIAN_______________ Jitlada Thai House 3715 N Halsted | 773.388.9988 This quaint family-owned eatery features Asian favorites such as pad Thai, pineapple fried rice, crab ragoon, pot stickers, tempura and nine spice curry items. Delivery available. Pingpong 3322 N. Broadway | 773.281.7575 This popular Lakeview restaurant features high-quality Pan-Asian cuisine in a hip and modern atmosphere as well as top-notch people-watching both those in the restaurant as well as any number of hotties walking by outside. Delivery available. Young’s Chinese Restaurant 3949 N Ashland | 773.248.7998 While Chinese takeout is sometimes a bad and poorly tasting stereotype, this well-regarded outpost has earned a stellar reputation for great tasting food and delivery so quick you’ll swear there must be a wok in the car. ITALIAN_____________ Anna Maria Pasteria 4400 N Clark | 773.506.2662 Owned by sisters who hail from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, this neighborhood gem creates homemade modern and traditional Italian dishes that are authentic, delicious, and best of all: inexpensive. Angelina Ristorante 3561 N Broadway | 773.935.5933 Hosting the coolest and hippest Sunday brunch crowd in Lakeview, the menu includes Eggs Benedict, Fritattas, Croque Monsiuer and Mufalatta sandwiches, almond-crusted stuffed French Toast, and the free flow of Champagne Mimosas. Brunch here is loud, raucous and FUN! Great for dinner, as well.
Panino’s Pizzeria 3702 N Broadway 773.472.6200 Panino’s has established itself as a Boystown favorite with its varied menu selections, including gyros and burgers, pasta entrees, and of course pizza. Delivery available. MEDITERRANEAN____ Andies 1467 W Montrose | 773.348.0654; 5253 N Clark | 773.784.8616 Specializing in Mediterranean and vegetarian cuisine, specialties of the house include steak kabobs, gyros, and poultry dishes such as Greek Chicken and Lebanese Style Chicken Kefta Kabob. And as befits the cuisine, desserts include a very tasty baklava. Istanbul 3613 N Broadway | 773.525.0500 Specializing in Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines, this recent addition to the lakeview dining scene has been attracting patrons with a varied menu, generous portions, and affordable prices. Sayat Nova 157 E. Ohio | 312.644.9159. Classic Mediterranean-American fare served in comfortable surroundings Every Thursday night things get extra gay for the “Boystown in Downtown” party. MEXICAN___________ Cesar’s 2924 N. Broadway | 773.296.9097; 3166 N Clark | 773.248.2835 This family-owned operation offers an enticing menu full of delicious Mexican recipes, popular house specialties, irresistible desserts, and their signature “Killer Margaritas.” Fiesta Mexicana 2423 N. Lincoln | 773.348.4144 and 4806 N. Broadway | 773.769.4244. Not your typical late-night taco joints, these neighborhood favorites serve up traditional Mexican dishes and seafood specialties. Open until 2am (3am on Saturdays) Mayan Palace 2703 N. Halsted Known to be one of the very best Mexican restaurants in the city, the focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients for its “south of the border” cuisine. Portions are generous and the cool Margaritas dubbed “The World’s Best!”
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MONDAY
Big Chicks – Buck Burger Club Krave - Musical Mondays & $5 you call it top shelf Crew – “Pub Stumpers” trivia half-price pizza & flat bread pizzas Halsted’s - $14 Miller buckets Hideaway - $3 “U Call It”, $2 off pizzas Hydrate - $1 drink specials Kit Kat – 50% off your entire bill Roscoe’s - “You’re the Star” karaoke $10 Miller Lite pitchers Scarlet - Live Music $3 tallboy PBR, $5 well Cosmos Scot’s - $3.25 domestic bottles Sidetrack – Show tune sing-along Spin – Karaoke $1 Leinenkugel draft/ $4 Skyy drinks The Glenwood - $6 Double pints Touché - $2.50 PBR Wild Pug – Free pool, “Motown Mondays” Domestic pints $2 Velvet Rope – Singles meet & greet
TUESDAY
Atmosphere - $1 well & Bud Lite draft Berlin - $1 drink night Club Krave - $2 well, $1 drafts, $4 draft pitchers Cocktail – Go-go boys Crew- $1 tacos, half-priced appetizers Halsted’s - $5.95 salad entrees Jackhammer – Karaoke with Creaoke $3 Bacardi and Finlandia Kit Kat – Half-priced martinis Roscoe’s – “Drag Race” Scarlet - $6 mini-pitchers vodkalemonade, $3 Miller Lite, Scot’s - $2 off all martinis Spin – Bingo $4 call cocktails The Closet - $3.50 pints of Miller Light and $3.50 Shock Tops Wild Pug – Acoustic music Shock Top pints $2.75
WEDNESDAY
Atmosphere - $2.50 drink specials Club Krave - $7 Three Olive martinis Cocktail – “Twisted Trivia” Crew – half-priced martinis & desserts Halsted’s - $2 Miller & Bud draft pints Hydrate- “Hydrag Revue” Kit Kat – half-priced cocktails & martinis, 2 for 1 entrees Mary’s Attic - “ Mary-oke”
24 boi
$3 well/domestic bottled beer North End – Karaoke Roscoe’s - “You’re the Star” karaoke $3 off all martinis Scarlet - $95 Classic Stoli bottle service, $5 martinis, $4 Amstel or Heineken Scot’s – $2 off Cosmos Sidetrack – “Rockin Retro” Spin – $1 house cocktails, domestic draft beer & wine The Glenwood - $6 Double pints Touché – “Bear Chested” Velvet Rope - $1 drinks Wild Pug – “Live Game Show” Absolut cocktails $3.50
THURSDAY
Atmosphere – “Hot Mess” male dancers $3 well, $5 cosmos, Berlin – “Stardust” Circuit – “La Noche Loca” Club Krave - $10 draft pints, $5 top shelf Cocktail – “Spank” Crew – Endless chips & salsa $2.50, $3 tap Hideaway – “Trailer Trash Bingo”, Latin night Hydrate - specials on Effen cocktails Jackhammer - $2 MGD, Light, Bud and Bud Lite Kit Kat - $5 Effen martinis & $5 mojitos Roscoe’s – “Alternative Sounds” Sayat Nova – $3 Lite, $4 Bacardi Bombs, Rokk Vodka $4 mixers, $5 martinis Scarlet - “Frat Party” $5 40oz Miller Light & King Cobra, 26oz Corona or mini-pitcher of Long Island Scot’s - $4 draft beers Sidetrack – Comedy videos T’s - $5 Margaritas and Cosmoritas The Call - $4 Absolute cocktails The Closet – Karaoke with Karen 9:30pm- 1:30am Touché - $2.50 PBR Velvet rope – Live jazz Wild Pug – Karaoke
FRIDAY
Circuit – Circuit Girl Club Krave - $5 sangria, $10 domestic buckets, $16 imported buckets Crew – half-priced nachos, $2 PBR Halsted’s - $12 pitchers Miller & Bud Lite
Hamburger Mary’s - $4 Leininkugel bottles Hideaway $7 Smirnoff lemonade pitchers Kit Kat - $30 3-course prix fixe meal Roscoe’s – Coor’s Light pitchers Scarlet - “First Ward Ball” $4 well drinks, $4 Bud Light, Sidetrack – Show tune cocktail hour Spin – Shower contest The Call - $4 Bacardi cocktails Wild Pug – all martinis $6
SATURDAY
Circuit –“Urbano” Club Krave - $12 mixed drink pitchers Crew - $9 pitchers Miller Lite Halsted’s - $3 mimosas & screwdrivers Hamburger Mary’s - $5 slushies Hideaway - $5 Long Islands Roscoe’s - $3 off martinis Scarlet - $95 Classic Stoli bottle service T’s - $7.50 Double pints Touché – free pizza at midnight Wild Pug – “Dog Day Afternoon,” pets welcome
SUNDAY
Atmosphere – Movie night $3 well, $2 Bud Lite draft, Big Chicks – Free BBQ Circuit – “Noche Latina” Club Krave - $5 draft pitchers & margaritas Halsted’s - $3 mimosas & screwdrivers Kit Kat – “Divalicious Brunch”-unlimited mimosas and bloody marys Mary’s Attic – “Mary-oke” North End – ‘80s video Roscoe’s - $12 pitchers of Long Islands Scarlet –“Liquid Brunch” $12 bottles of champagne, $4 bloody marys & screwdrivers, free cereal & juice bar Scot’s – Free BBQ Sidetrack – Show tunes/’60s-‘80s Smart Bar – Dollar Disco – drinks are $1 Spin –“Game Show Trivia” “Supersize Me” all Absolut cocktails served in pint glasses, “Meat & Buns” free hot dogs & hamburgers Wild Pug – specials on pitchers of mimosa, Bud Light, Sweet Tea, Long Islands
by Harry Taint
Hooray for Hollywood!
The new Kathy Osterman field house at Hollywood Beach is delightful. The large deck in front of the field house offers seating at wrought iron tables or on rainbow colored Adirondack chairs. The folks from ALMA held a picnic at the park a few weeks ago and Miss Ronnie took full advantage of the hot summer day to strut her stuff…Speaking of Miss Ronnie, she let slip that the new location for Piehole will be on Broadway across the street from Treasure Island.
Hooray for Broadway!
Central Lakeview Merchants’ Association (CMLA) has rolled out a creative solution to the parking meter problem. Through the end of September, CMLA is offering a $10 roll of quarters for people who shop, dine or party in the neighborhood. Here’s how it works: Spend a total of $100 between two or more stores in the neighborhood, then bring the receipts down to CMLA’s office (3355 N. Clark) and get the roll of quarters. After that how the quarters are spent is completely up to the consumer. You could even put them in your front pocket to impress the boys.
Viva Mexico!
Circuit hosts a celebration of Mexico’s Bi-Centennial on Wednesday, September 15. Then, a little over a week later, welcomes “Art & Soul: A Celebration of LGBT Talent on September 26. The club parties out the month as Club Papi presents Latin American pop star Christian Chavez on September 30.
Passing the Bar
Brain Freeze alert! Sidetrack has a new frozen drink, the Ketel One Whipsicle. It tastes just like Popsicles from when you were a kid, but with a major kick…Speaking of Sidetrack, Ted Allen (“Queer Eye”, “Chopped”) will host a wine tasting from the Robert Mondavi Private Selection, with food pairings at the bar on Friday, September 24 from 6-8 p.m… Berlin’s Stardust Thursday on September 16 Mint Male will be a benefit for CHIRP (Chicago Independent Radio Project) hosted by Gay Boys With Beards. DJ Erik Roldan will spin and drink specials will abound…Roscoe’s popular wet boxer contest is on September 30. Hey guys, how about equal representation for those of us who prefer tighty whities?… Spotlite Theatrix will present a pair of cabaret shows to benefit ArtReach Educational Theatre on Saturday, September 25t at @mosphere and Saturday, October 9 at Club Krave. Both events have a suggested donation of $5…Mercedes, and her line-up of entertainers will present a show to raise money to help send our spitfire to Tampa to compete for the national title “Miss Gay USofA at Large” on Sept 16 at Spin… Crew. Friday, September 24. 11 p.m. “Hot Jockstrap” contest. Need I say more?
$250/per person. If that’s a bit rich for your budget, opt for the 7:30 p.m.-midnight party with dinner and drinks for $150 per person. Period attire is encouraged, to purchase tickets log on to events.org/awareaffair2010.
Do Tell!
The Ram presents a “Tribute to the Troops” on September 24. In addition to special military themed videos, those presenting a military ID don’t have to pay the cover charge, and it’s $5 off the cover charge to those in uniform (does that include my old candy-striper frock?). Just the thought of all the hot military meat makes me stand at attention. While you’re at it get ready for Ram’s upcoming “Sin Party” on October 29.
Pie-Eyed
The pie toss benefit for Equality Illinois at Sidetrack on August 28 was a big hit. But for some reason, many of the hot guys felt compelled to take off their shirts in order to take a pie in the face. I’m not complaining, mind you.
Special Diva-livery
My favorite queen from all of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” shows, Pandora Boxx joins with local favorite Jade on September 11for two shows (midnight and 1 a.m.) at Spin. General admission is $5 (Psst! I hear that a limited amount of VIP “Meet and Greet” tickets are available for $10. Get them by calling 773.327.7711 or by emailing robert@spin-nightclub. com)… Miss Paula Sinclaire is officially one day older than dirt. He lp her celebrate getting her AARP diamond card by joining her on September 18 at 9 p.m. at 3160f or her concert, “Paula Sinclaire Sings the Birthday Blues.”Give her enough to drink and she may tell you about the time she was Ethel Merman’s baby-sitter.
Nerd Alert!
Prism Comics has announced that submissions are still being accepted for the 2010 Prism Comics Queer Press Grant, with a deadline of September 15. The QPG was established by Prism to assist in the publication and promotion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender comic books. The grant’s submission deadline has been moved to September 15 this year so that the recipient can be announced during the Alternative Press Expo on October 16 and 17 in San Francisco. For more information check out prismcomics.org/grant.
Totally Tubular
Test Positive Aware Network’s signature fall event, Aware Affair will be held on Saturday, September 11, at the Ravenswood Billboard Factory, where guests will enjoy a tableau of fine cuisine, peruse an array of unparalleled silent auction selections, take their chance at high-end raffle prizes, and watch an eclectic variety of performance art and entertainment. If you’ve got some big bucks, you can attend the Mile High Club/VIP Reception from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for
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Boystown / Lakeview 3160 3160 N.Clark G&L, LM,DS Berlin 954 W. Belmont G&L, D, 4 Bobby Love’s 3729 N. Halsted G&L Buck’s Saloon 3439 N. Halsted G Cell Block 3702 N. Halsted G, LF Charlie’s 3726 N. Broadway G, D, W, Circuit 2.02 3641 N. Halsted G&L, D, 4 The Closet 3325 N. Broadway G&L, V, 4 Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted G, GB Hydrate 3458 N. Halsted G, D, DS, 4 Kit Kat 3700 N. Halsted G&L, DS, R Little Jim’s 3501 N. Halsted G, V, 4 Lucky Horseshoe 3169 N. Halsted G, GB Manhandler 1948 N. Halsted G, W, 4 Minibar 3341 N. Halsted G, R North End 3733 N. Halsted G Roscoe’s 3356 N. Halsted G, D, V, DS Scarlet 3320 N. Halsted G Sidetrack 3349 N. Halsted G, V Smart Bar / Metro 3730 N. Clark MS, D, 4 Spin 800 W. Belmont G, D, V, DS
773.327.5969 773.348.4975 773.525.1200 773.525.1125 773.665.8064 773.871.8887 773.325.2233 773.477.8533 773.477.1420 773.975.9244 773.525.1111 773.871.6116 773.404.3169 773.871.3339 773.871.6227 773.477.7999 773.281.3355 773.348.1053 773.477.9189 773.549.4140 773.327.7711
Chicago Downtown Baton Show Lounge 436 N. Clark DS 312.644.5269 Club 720 720 N. Wells MS, D, 4 312.787.8720 Crimson Lounge 333 N. Dearborn MS, D, R 312.923.2473 Excalibur/Vision 632 N. Dearborn MS, D, 4 312.266.1944 Funky Buddha 728 W. Grand Ave. MS, D 312.666.1695 House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn MS, LM, 4 312.923.2000 Krush/Prop House 1657 N. Elston G&L, D, 4 773.486.2390 Second Story Bar 157 E. Ohio G, V 312.923.9536 Sound Bar 226 W. Ontario MS, D, 4 312.787-4480 Spy Bar 646 N. Franklin MS, D, 4 312.587.8779 Underground 56 W. Illinois MS, D, 4 312.644.7600 Vibe 1543 N. Kingsbury MS, D, 4 312.266.1900
Chicago Northside The Anvil 1137 W. Granville G, V @mosphere 5355 N. Clark G&L, V, GB Big Chicks 5024 N. Sheridan G&L, D, R The Call 1547 W Bryn Mawr G&L, D, DS, V, LM Crew Bar 4804 N. Broadway G&L, V, R Davenport’s 1383 N. Milwaukee G&L, LM Debonair Social Club 1575 N. MilwaukeeAve. MS, D
773.973.0006 773.784.1100 773.728.5511 773.334.2525 773.784.2739 773.278.1830 773.227.7990
G------------------------------------------------------------------Gay Male L---------------------------------------------------------------------Lesbian G&L-------------------------------------------------Gay Male & Lesbian D-------------------------------------------------------------------Dancing V-----------------------------------------------------------------------Video GB-------------------------------------------------------------Go Go Boys DS--------------------------------------------------------------Drag Show R---------------------------------------------------------Restaurant,Food
Fat Cat 4849 N. Broadway MS, R 773.506.3100 Green Dolphin St. 2200 N. Ashland G&L, D, LM, 4 773.395.0066 Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway MS, LM, 4 773.878.5552 In Fine Spirits 5420 N Clark MS, R 773.334.9463 Jackhammer 6406 N. Clark G, D, V, GB, LM, 4 773.743.5772 Joi de Vine 1744 W. Balmoral L, R 773.989.6846 Kinetic Playground 1113 W. LawrenceMS, D, LM, 4 773.769.5483 Marty’s 1511 W. Balmoral G&L 773.561.6425 Mary’sAttic 5400 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Parlour On Clark 6341 N. Clark Phone TBA RecRoom 5402 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Scot’s 1829 W. Montrose G&L 773.528.3253 SoFo Bar 4923 N. Clark G 773.784.7636 T’s 5025 N. Clark G&L, R 773.784.6000 The Glenwood 6962 N Glenwood G 773.764.7363 Touché 6412 N. Clark G, V, LF, 4 773.465.7400 Wild Pug 4810 N. Broadway G&L, D, V 773.784.4811
Chicago Southside Club Escape 1530 E. 75th G&L, D Escapades 6301 S. Harlem G&L, D, V, 4 Inn Exile 5758 W. 65th G&L, D, V Jeffrey Pub 7041 S. Jeffrey G&L, D, V, 4
773.667.6454 773.229.0886 773.582.3510 773.363.8555
Chicago Suburbs Hideaway 7301 W. Roosevelt Forest Park G,D,V,DS,GB 708.771.4459 Club Krave 13126 S. Western Blue Island G&L, D, V, DS, GB, 4 708.597.8379 Hunters 1932 E. Higgins Elk Grove Village G, D, V, GB, 4 847.439.8840 Mission/Medusa’s 209 E. Chicago Downtown Elgin G&L, D, V 847.488.0320 Encompass 24215 Rush St. Lake Station, IN G&L,D,R,DS 219.962.4640 Velvet Rope 728 Lake St Oak Park G&L, D, V, R 708.358.8840
Adult Entertainment Banana Video 4923 N. Clark G, BK Bijou Theater 1349 N. Wells G, GB, BK Man’s Country 5017 N. Clark G, GB, BH Steamworks 3246 N. Halsted G, BH, FC The Ram 35111/2 N. Halsted G, BK, D
773.561.8322 312.943.5397 773.878.2069 773.929.6080 773.525.9528
4--------------------------------------------------------------Open til 4am MS--------------------------------------------------------Mostly Straight LF---------------------------------------------------------Leather / Fetish W-------------------------------------------------------------------Western LM--------------------------------------------------Live Music / Cabaret BH--------------------------------------------------------------Bath House BK----------------------------------Adult Book, Booth & Video Store FC-------------------------------------------------------------Fitness Club