West Suburban Living February 2017

HOT NEW FURNITURE TRENDS

WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE

SPOTLIGHT ON FOREST PARK

FEBRUARY 2017 WEST

ETHNIC EATERIES

SUBURBAN

A sampling of the global culinary smorgasbord in our midst

LIVING • ETHNIC EATERIES VOL. 22 •

Q&A

NUMBER

FEBRUARY 2017

2

WITH TV’S “BIGGEST LOSER” TRAINER & FITNESS COACH JEN WIDERSTROM

02

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$3.95

www.westsuburbanliving.net

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Editor & Publisher | Chuck Cozette Managing Editor | Anne Knudsen Assistant Editor | Sarah Astra Art Director | Rachel Switall Contributing Writers Joni Hirsch Blackman, Buzz Brandt, Jay Copp, Kathy Johns, Lynn Petrak, Mathew Powers, Lisa Sloan, Michele Weldon and Tom Witom Contributing Photographer Ed Ahern Advertising Sales Pam Loebel, Susan Reetz Accounting/Circulation Jennifer Cozette Reader Advisory Board Laurie Barton (Glen Ellyn) Linda Cassidy (Campton Hills) Mary Ellen Coombs (Wheaton), Joan Hoff (Elmhurst) M Grace Grzanek (Batavia), Liz Hunka (Wheaton) Nancy Jensen (Batavia), Holly Jordan (Wheaton) Mary Ellen Kastenholz (Western Springs) Kate Kirkpatrick (Naperville) Molly Livermore (St. Charles) Pamela Peterson (Burr Ridge) Diana Santos (Woodridge), Darla Scheidt (Darien) Jean Stawarz (Oak Brook) Marilyn Straub Garazin (Winfield) West Suburban Living is a publication of C2 Publishing, Inc. 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162 630.834.4995 / 630.834.4996 (fax) wsl@westsuburbanliving.net subscriptions@westsuburbanliving.net www.westsuburbanliving.net No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of C2 Publishing, Inc. Any views expressed in any advertisement, signed letter, article or photograph are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of West Suburban Living or its parent company.

West Suburban Living (Vol. 22, No. 2 FEB 2017; ISSN No. 1532-6705) is published monthly, except for July/August and November/December issues (10 times a year) by C2 Publishing, Inc., 5101 Darmstadt Rd., Hillside, IL 60162, 630 834-4995, fax 630 834-4996. Periodicals postage paid at Elmhurst, Illinois and additional mailing offices.

Subscriptions: 1 year $15; 2 years $24; 3 years $32. Single copy $3.95; back issues, as available, $7. West Suburban Living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to West Suburban Living Magazine, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Printed in USA. 2 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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CONTENTS |

February

|

2017

Photo courtesy of Sushi Nest

West Suburban Living

Home&Garden

44

COMFORT & STYLE

Today’s furniture trends include customization, livability and fresh new hues

Town Focus

48

Photo courtesy of The Dump

28

FOREST PARK

Boasting an eclectic vibe similar to its nearby big city neighbor, this near west suburb also reflects its historic roots and a small town sense of community

SPECIAL SECTION

35

Wedding Planning A guide to some of the top venues and service providers in the western suburbs

 Features 28

ON THE COVER

44

The “2011 Roll” as served at Sushi House

ETHNIC EATERIES A taste-worthy sampling of the global culinary smorgasbord in our midst

4 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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DEPARTMENTS |

February

|

2017

Photo by Diana Santos

West Suburban Living

Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

14

12

19 Around the Towns

Perspectives

8 16

64

FOREWARD

Making some timely adjustments LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY

A professional, compassionate ritual can make all the difference at the saddest of times

10

BY THE NUMBERS

12

Q&A

18

LAST WORD

Wrinkles are a part of life, and smoothing them out is simply one chore too many

62

Intriguing numerical tidbits

with reality TV fitness coach Jennifer Widerstrom

REVIEW: The Heritage

New book releases from west suburban writers.

56

REVIEW: Gia Mia in Geneva

SCENE & SEEN

53

LOCAL AUTHORS

A photo gallery of recent notable charitable events

STOPS & SHOPS

58

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The best in music, theatre and other area events

in Forest Park

NEW RESTAURANTS:

En Fuego in Oakbrook Terrace and Red Arrow Tap Room in Elmhurst CRAFT BEER

Local breweries tap into the area’s past

New stores and hidden gems

Out&About

19

Dining

54

Style&Fashion

14

westsuburbanliving.net The go-to site for the Best of the Western Suburbs at your fingertips!

60

CHEERS

Ice wine a sweet, succulent delight

6 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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EDITOR’S NOTE “Integrity is when what you do, who you are, what you say, what you feel, and what you think, all come from the same place.”

- Madelyn Haney

“People may doubt what you say, but they will believe what you do.”

- Lewis Cass

“I believe in the sacredness of a promise, that a man’s word should be as good as his bond; that character — not wealth or power or position — is of supreme worth.”

- John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

“Imagination was given to man to compensate him for what he is not and a sense of humor was provided to console him for what he is.”

- Oscar Wilde

“For what will a man be profited, if he gains the

Making Some Timely Adjustments

T

his past year, West Suburban Living celebrated its 20th anniversary, and as is only appropriate when observing a benchmark anniversary, we did a little reminiscing. It was all good stuff because that’s one of the nice things about looking back — there is a tendency to recall almost exclusively all the positive memories. But that does not mean we as a magazine have not experienced a few minor bumps in the road along the way. Of course we have. In fact, one of them occurred with our January issue which, as you may have noted, arrived in your mailbox several days later than it should have. There are a number of reasons — the holidays and an unexpected delay at our printer chief among them — but no excuses. As editor and publisher, it’s my job to get the magazine into your hands in a timely manner and last issue I failed to do so.

For that, I offer my sincere apologies.

Here at West Suburban Living, we have always played it a little tighter with deadlines than other magazines, some of which actually come out weeks before their issue dates. The reason is rooted in our former bi-monthly format and our desire to have our popular calendar of events section, Out & About, be as comprehensive and timely as possible.

That was particularly challenging when each issue covered two months, as it was often difficult to get information far enough in advance to include all the events in the second month. Knowing how much you and other readers appreciate being up-to-date with what’s going on in

whole world, and forfeits

the area — in reader surveys, the Out & About section has always rated among the magazine’s favorite features — we pushed back our production deadlines so we could include as many events as possible.

Since shifting to a 10x a year publishing schedule a few years ago, the need to extend our editorial deadline is no longer as critical.

Better yet, now any events that we learn about after the magazine’s print deadline can still be posted in the Arts & Entertainment section on our website. This has allowed us to gradually begin moving the magazine’s production cycle forward. Ultimately, that will allow us to deliver the magazine earlier and provide extra delivery time should we run into unexpected delays on a particular issue as we did last month.

Even though we have been publishing West Suburban Living for more than 20 years, we will always be fine tuning what we do and how we do it in an ongoing effort to improve the magazine. We invite you to join us in that process by giving us feedback and making suggestions.

So please drop us a note or give us a call.

We’d love to hear from you.

As always, thanks for being a reader and we hope you enjoy this issue.

his soul?”

- Matthew 16:26

Chuck Cozette, Editor & Publisher chuck@westsuburbanliving.net

8 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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THE

BY NUMBERS

10,291

73

is the number of hours spent on the lunar surface by Captain Eugene Cernan, the last man to leave footprints on the moon. Cernan, who died in January at age 82, was the second American astronaut to walk in space.

He made three space missions, including his 1972 moon landing from Apollo 17. He logged 566 hours and 15 minutes in space.

Cernan grew up in Bellwood and Maywood and graduated from Proviso East High School in 1952. His trail-blazing career is honored at Triton College’s Cernan Earth

That’s the number of visitors who

and Space Center in River Grove. Offering student programming for 30,000 would-be

climbed the stately stairway of

intergalactic explorers each year, the center exhibits a 1:15 scale space shuttle as well as

one of Elmhurst’s first and finest

Captain Cernan’s original space suit. There’s also a 93-seat, full-dome planetarium, where

homes, The Glos Mansion, last

visitors can take a cinematic journey, with lights and lasers blazing, to infinity and beyond.

year. The turreted, stone-clad building dates back to 1874 and now houses Elmhurst Historical Museum, guarding the memories of the city since 1957. Today, the museum showcases 9,688 unique artifacts and presents more than 40 community programs per year, attended by 2,500-plus participants. The staff handles 370 reference requests from around the world.

Last summer, back by popular demand, the mansion hosted the 2nd Annual Elmhurst Craft

Exercises include a stair climb, hose

Ten minutes 20 seconds is the max time allowed for would-be firefighters

drag, equipment carry, ladder raise

to complete eight key firefighting tasks

and extension, forcible entry, search,

— and that’s while wearing a hard

rescue, and ceiling breach and pull.

hat, gloves and a vest weighted to

An orientation

simulate the lifting of heavy firefighting

and mentoring

equipment. Recently certified, the

program begins

Naperville Fire Department is one of

eight weeks prior

only four in the state of Illinois licensed

to the test — and success is measured

to test the physical ability

10/20

on a pass/fail basis only. Naperville

of candidates training to

expects to test the fire-fighting chops

save lives and put out fires.

of anywhere from 100 to 1,500

Indian Head Park is one

applicants wanting to suit up and hit

of the others.

the hot spots this year.

Beer Festival, where 550 guests sampled new brews. Raise your glass to celebrate the museum’s 60th anniversary this year!

30/300/3000

Graham’s Fine Chocolates, with outlets in downtown Geneva and Wheaton, celebrates its 30th Valentine’s Day this month. In preparation, the staff has hand-dipped 300 flats — or 350 pounds — of strawberries in melted chocolate.

300 chocolate teddy bears line up inside display cases teeming with handcrafted specialty chocolates and truffles. 3000 chocolate heart pops are carefully hand-piped with messages like “I love you,” “Je t’aime” and “Mi amor.” Over the years, more than 30 lovers have chosen Graham’s to pop the question — once with the ring buried inside a heart-shaped box of Valentine’s treats.

10 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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Q&A

Jen Widerstrom/ Photo courtesy of River Brothers

Reality TV fitness coach from Lisle

JEN WIDERSTROM IS BEST KNOWN for her role as

How active were you in sports when you were growing up?

JW: I was very active. I did gymnastics for a long time, probably since I was six or seven, at American Gymnastics in Aurora, and it’s still a thriving place. I carried on with gymnastics into high school where I added track and diving. Oh, and I’ve done bodybuilding with my dad forever!

I was going into second grade and I had a picture of Conan the Barbarian on my bedroom wall, because I thought he was the coolest thing. As I got older I realized his name wasn’t Conan, it was Arnold Schwarzenegger. My dad would show me how to lift weights and tell me how he once met Arnold. I remember just being infatuated because Arnold had really big muscles and I had muscles, too — that helped me feel good about myself. Bodybuilding helped me embrace my body.

America’s big-hearted coach and the emotional backbone of NBC’s long-standing hit series, “The Biggest Loser.” Raised in Lisle, Widerstrom attended Naperville North High School. She graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Sports Administration and went on to become certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Widerstrom first broke into reality television on “American Gladiators,” where she competed as “Phoenix” in feats of physical strength against other contestants.

Widerstrom currently makes her home in Los Angeles, where she is a frequent volunteer at the L.A. Children’s Hospital. She also travels with Goodwill Military Tours to visit troops in Iraq and Korea’s Green Zone. She is the author of a new diet and exercise book, Diet Right for Your Personality Type (see review on page 18). For the extended interview, go to www.westsuburbanliving.net.

Q&A

You earned your degree in Sports Administration. What happened next?

JW: I was not getting hired for my degree! So I started learning all about the components of health and fitness and how they change the dynamic of who we are as people. For me, the goal of exercise was always to be better on the outside.

I hit a point where I realized how much better movement made me as a human, as a person. I started to change the way I looked at workouts. No more was this about performance, it was about me. I started to use that perspective as a tool to help others in their lives. What we do in the gym and what we make in the kitchen is all just practice for the life out there — for

RAPID FIRE

hard days, for resilience, for empowerment, for courage. And it sounds so silly but there is a direct parallel.

Was your jump into reality TV one big career break or a series of baby steps?

JW: Baby steps. Absolutely. “American Gladiators” came out of nowhere. I’d done a little bit of fitness modeling. The casting director saw my photo in a magazine and said “Oh, she’d be great.”

I was on the show for a couple of seasons, then it was cancelled. What seemed like a big break wasn’t really one at all. The real break is the one we create over time. It’s the hard work, the people that count on you. The truth is an overnight success takes about 10 years. But Gladiators did give me the courage to move to L.A. I started out by teaching classes, then private training, then general health. This was year upon year of showing up, learning about who I am and what I do.

What was it like to be a contestant on “American Gladiators”?

JW: Oh my god, it was a total party. You’re going to be wearing make-up every day.

Check. That’s a yes for me. You’re going to play games. OK, check. You’re going to dye your hair pink. Check, I’ll do that. And they’re going to pay me on top of it? Yes, I will do this show. I worked with amazing people. It was a dream job.

How long was it before you were cast on “The Biggest Loser”?

JW: Oh, that was probably six, seven years later. And it was during that period that I

sounds so funny. I can do breakfast

because I can do it anytime,

any time of day. I love almonds.

anywhere.

I love the taste. I can roast them,

Best workout buddy? My dog,

chop them, whatever. And they’re

Hank. He’s a bulldog/pitbull rescue.

Best advice and from whom?

lately it’s been rapper Eminem.

healthy, that’s a bonus.

He doesn’t go very fast. But he’s

Yoda. “Do or do not. There is no try.”

If not fitness, what career? Oh, I’d

Favorite workouts? Snatch, it’s an

a great cheerleader.

Weights or cardio? Weights, for

be a teacher. Like my mom.

Olympic barbell movement. I used

Low fat or low carb? If I had to

sure. No question.

Favorite foods? Well, cheese and

to hate running and I’m starting

choose one, I’d say lower carb.

Favorite workout music? Ooh,

crackers I see as one food group. It

to love it. Oh, and the burpee

My body feels better running on fat.

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d t o c I t o m I t I d a t a a

J a d i s I a r H w t I m k p a p I H a c t t

w J b w a a T W a a h s I b A

t, e

a

s e

discovered my real passion was personal training. I got involved in nutrition, worked on becoming a fitness expert, and made connections with some really big brands.

I was trying to make myself relevant to the industry, to my peers. The producers of “The Biggest Loser” actually interviewed me multiple times before they hired me.

I went in thinking, OK, I’m the trainer, I’m the boss. I gotta be their captain and I’m gonna fix them. I didn’t expect how deeply I would connect with contestants and how they would change my life. And the moment I realized that letting them in and being vulnerable was OK, my ability as a trainer went through the roof.

Is there any one way to lose weight?

JW: Here’s the thing. We’ve proven that anyone can lose weight, but can you do it while staying healthy? Can you do it while supporting yourself and can you sustain the results? When I wrote my book, I wanted to put my stake in the ground and share everything I teach. But I quickly realized that I coach everyone differently.

How could I teach just one approach when we are all so different? I started to think about the personalities of everyone I’ve trained, all the nuances of behavior or motivation, whether it’s in the gym or in the kitchen. I began to formulate five different personality types. I worked out that there are five different ways I had to coach people to match up with those categories.

I kept track of what I saw and experienced.

How can a diet plan possibly work if you are not including the dieter in on the conversation? My book allows readers to elevate their own awareness of who they are — and to celebrate that.

Can you share a story of a client who has worked with you?

JW: Actually, there is a great one — my best friend Ty. He lives in Chicago and we grew up together. He is a parent and a business owner. He is so great to be around, always the life of the party. But Ty’s weight gain escalated and escalated.

When I gave him my program, it was such a victory for me. He came to realize the amount of pressure and shame he put on himself for getting so fat. And there was such joy in him when he saw I could help.

In his first month, he lost 20 pounds, just by being aware of his habits and tendencies.

As soon as he addressed the frustrations

he had for letting himself go, he was able to fix it! l love seeing people win. They start to come out of the clouds and realize who they are. They see that their efforts make a difference not just on the scale but in their lives. What people don’t realize is that the outside changes a lot faster than the inside. I’ve seen clients lose a lot of weight yet still see the fat person in the mirror. My coaching allows them to accept what they see, lean into it and move on.

And that’s really neat.

What does your daily schedule look like and how do you stay on track when it comes to diet and exercise?

JW: I have a lot of freedom because I just make up my schedule. I realize how lucky I am. I have a book tour coming up and I’m filming, so my days are crazy long. I’m under-eating. I’m depleted. I’m short on rest. I’m not getting enough water. I’m craving sugar or need a boost in energy.

I do not live perfectly but I do make a choice every day to be present and to work at being my best. And that’s for everybody. That’s free. It costs you nothing.

What do you say to people who are dealing with body image issues?

JW: I think it’s good that the “skinny” body image is on its way out. Lately, “strong” is in — women are proud of their muscles and that’s great. But I’m still waiting for “You Are In” or “Embrace Your Shape.” I know actress Gwyneth Paltrow. She is as gorgeous a person as you can imagine.

She’s tall and she’s lanky and she’s long.

And that’s her body type. I’m never going to look like Gwyn. There’s nothing I can do. But I’ll tell you what. There’s nothing Gwyn can do to look like me. This is my body, my shape, my strength. And she has hers. We’ve maxed it out. Be positive about your body type. Lean into it and make it your best. Because that’s you.

What do you miss about the western suburbs?

JW: I was really lucky to grow up near downtown Naperville. My first job was at Potter’s Place, which has been there forever. I love the Riverwalk. I love that I took my high school photos there. It’s a very peaceful place. The community in downtown Naperville is not common. I don’t think people realize how special it is. Western suburbs, baby!

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STOPS&SHOPS



Photo by Diana Santos

Photo by Papier Girl

Photo by Kathy Johns

Hidden Gems & Longtime Favorites

PAPIER GIRL

KELLEY CAWLEY

CALI & CHANCE

CREATIVITY AND CHARM COMBINE

FUN AND SOPHISTICATED, KELLEY CAWLEY

DISCRETELY HIDDEN IN NAPERVILLE’S

at Glen Ellyn’s Papier Girl (413 N. Main St., 630 469-4266), a true destination shop for everything paper.

A lovely flurry of colorful stationery, cards, gift wrap, journals and specialty pens is exquisitely displayed on vintage tables or the raw brick that lines one wall of the shop. But the heartbeat of this couture paper boutique is its extensive selection of wedding invitations and accessories, all ready to be embossed and monogrammed in the personal style of the bride-to-be.

Owner Lesley Vesevick prioritizes customer service and leaves no detail to chance, showering wedding shoppers with elegant options for invites, RSVPs, coasters, vow books and so much more.

There are also customized to-do lists, clipboards and chalkboards, plus a range of pretty wedding favors.

— Anne Knudsen

(545 Village Center Dr., Burr Ridge, 630 590-5336) offers both on-trend and classic wardrobe pieces for women in a contemporary and chic environment. “We can fit the customer from head to toe because we carry footwear, denim, dresses, accessories and apparel,” says Rebecca Mertel Arkins, store manager and buyer. “We carry all sizes — XS through 3XL — so that we can really cater to every woman.”

In addition to its own brand — an exclusive collection designed by owner Kelley Cawley Salazar and a team that includes Arkins — the store carries 200-plus brands of established and up-and-coming designers. Big sellers include Michael Stars, Premium Denim, BCB Generation, Hudson Jeans and Mother, which Arkins describes as “a new cool brand out of L.A.” As jeans are a fashion staple, Arkins says that everyone who works at the store “is denim-certified and can fit the customer in the right pair of jeans.”

— Kathy Johns

courtyard shopping district, Cali & Chance Boutique (236 S. Washington St., 630 357-6114) radiates a welcoming, beachy vibe. Owner Sally Lutz creatively blends women’s fashions and home décor in a shop that has a laid-back, casual quality, while remaining authentic in charm.

An extensive selection of wardrobe essentials is beautifully displayed. Embellished jeggings and sleek leggings pair perfectly with flirty tops, tanks and tunics.

Vintage-inspired dresses provide a flawless background for natureinfluenced jewelry, while trendy outerwear adds extra warmth and pizzazz. Adorable and affordable, all are an invitation to relax, have fun, and be yourself.

Lutz’s support of the areas’s cottage-industry suppliers is reflected in the store’s medley of home décor and personal indulgence items, such as fizzy bath balms, soothing candles, pocket charms and more.

— Diana Santos

NEW STORE OPENINGS Following is a sampling of new shops that have opened in the last few months in the western suburbs.

For a full list, go to westsuburbanliving.net.

16 SUITCASES Youthful, contemporary fashions for teens and beyond. Select cuts, styles, and looks in junior sizes.

108 N. Marion St., Oak Park 708 524-5336

NAPERVILLE RUNNING CO. New branch of popular store offering all major shoe brands, known for its personalized shoe fitting process. 782 S. Route 59, Naperville. 630 599-2011

AVENUE Plus-size clothing that doesn’t compromise on trends. Fit, comfort and fashion in apparel and footwear. 3322 S. Oak Park Ave., Berwyn. 708 788-8100

WARBY PARKER Specializes in hip designer eyewear and fashion-savvy glasses at a discount off of typical retail prices.

62 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. 630 243-5224

SELFIE FUN PARTY Cool photo studio and party spot. Kids point and shoot selfies against motorized backdrops.

782 S. Route 59, Naperville.

630 599-2011

14 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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CAST YOUR VOTE TODAY!

BEST OF THE WEST 2017

IT’S YOUR TURN. Tell us what you like best about the western suburbs — shops, places to go, restaurants, things to do, etc.

You could win gift certificates to top area restaurants or other prizes. Your answers will also be combined with those from other readers and summarized in a special “Best of the West” feature in our March 2017 issue. The more questions you answer the better, but you don’t have to answer them all. Just the ones you want (though you must answer at least 30 to qualify for prizes). Don’t delay. Fill out the survey right now and drop it in the mail. We look forward to hearing from you.

FOOD Best Place for Breakfast _____________________________________________________________ Best Sunday Brunch _____________________________________________________________ Best Barbecue _____________________________________________________________ Best Burger _____________________________________________________________ Best Deli or Sandwich Shop _____________________________________________________________ Best Pizza _____________________________________________________________ Best Hot Dog _____________________________________________________________ Best Place for Seafood _____________________________________________________________ Best Steak _____________________________________________________________ Best Coffeehouse (Not Starbucks, Caribou Coffee or Dunkin’ Donuts) _____________________________________________________________ Best Tea Room/Tea House _____________________________________________________________ Best Place for Vegetarian and/or Healthy Fare _____________________________________________________________ Most Romantic Restaurant (Great Atmosphere) _____________________________________________________________ Best Outdoor Dining _____________________________________________________________ Best for Ice Cream/Dessert/Gelato _____________________________________________________________ Best New Restaurant (Opened within the Past Year) _____________________________________________________________ Best Kid/Family Friendly Restaurant (Not Fast Food) _____________________________________________________________ Best Restaurant if Money is No Object _____________________________________________________________ Best Italian Restaurant _____________________________________________________________ Best Asian Restaurant _____________________________________________________________ Best Mexican or Latin Restaurant _____________________________________________________________ Best French Restaurant _____________________________________________________________ Best Irish Pub _____________________________________________________________ Best Sushi _____________________________________________________________ Best Fish Fry _____________________________________________________________ Best Downtown Chicago Restaurant _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Wine _____________________________________________________________ Best Microbrewery/Brewpub _____________________________________________________________ Best Cheap Eats (Not Fast Food; Good Food at Reasonable Prices) _____________________________________________________________ Best Neighborhood Bar or Pub _____________________________________________________________ Best Service at a Restaurant _____________________________________________________________

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT Best Festival or Fair _____________________________________________________________ Best Craft or Art Show _____________________________________________________________

Best Farmers’ Market _____________________________________________________________ Best Park or Forest Preserve _____________________________________________________________ Best Place for Live Music _____________________________________________________________ Best Public Library _____________________________________________________________ Best Historic Landmark/Attraction _____________________________________________________________ Best Area Museum _____________________________________________________________ Best Movie Theatre _____________________________________________________________ Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party _____________________________________________________________ Best Weekend Getaway Destination _____________________________________________________________ Favorite Movie in the Past Year _____________________________________________________________ Favorite TV Show _____________________________________________________________ Best Book You’ve Recently Read _____________________________________________________________ Best Place for a Girls’ Night Out _____________________________________________________________ Best Local Band _____________________________________________________________ Best Venue for Live Theatre _____________________________________________________________ Best Triva Night Venue _____________________________________________________________

SPORTS Favorite Chicago-Area Sports Team _____________________________________________________________ Best Sports Bar or Place to Watch Sports _____________________________________________________________ Favorite Chicago Athlete/Sports Personality _____________________________________________________________ Best Area Public Golf Course _____________________________________________________________ Best Golf Driving Range _____________________________________________________________ Best Area Bowling Alley _____________________________________________________________

SHOPPING Best Mall or Shopping Center _____________________________________________________________ Best Women’s Clothing Store or Boutique _____________________________________________________________ Best Bargain Shopping/Discount or Outlet Store _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Women’s Shoes _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Women’s Jeans _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Art _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Men’s Clothes _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Children’s Clothes _____________________________________________________________ Best Pet Service/Supply/Boutique _____________________________________________________________ Best Kitchen & Housewares Store _____________________________________________________________ Best Decorative Accessories for the Home _____________________________________________________________

ENTER TO WIN GREAT

DINING

GIFT CERTIFICATES!

Best Department Store _____________________________________________________________ Best Local Jeweler _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Furniture _____________________________________________________________ Best New Store (Opened within the Past Year) _____________________________________________________________ Best Resale and/or Consignment Shop _____________________________________________________________ Best Place for Antiques/Vintage Finds _____________________________________________________________ Best Place to Buy Appliances _____________________________________________________________ Best Unique Gift Shop _____________________________________________________________ Best Nursery/Garden Center _____________________________________________________________ Best Grocery, Food Market or Gourmet Shop _____________________________________________________________

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1/22/17 3:11 PM

TO THE

LOOK WESTERN SKY

By Joni Hirsch Blackman

A Caring Goodbye to Beloved Pets A professional, compassionate ritual can make all the difference at the saddest of times

T

he oasis of grass, headstones and compassion has been tucked into a Willowbrook neighborhood since 1926.

Wearing a baseball cap that says “WOOF,” Bill Remkus sits behind his desk in a building on the property he’s known most of his life.

Pet lovers’ conversations with him are both difficult and comforting — difficult subject matter, but comforting to know the last contact with their pets can be carried out with respect.

“We’re like a funeral home, we just do things on a smaller scale,” says Remkus.

For people who have cared for their beloved pets all their lives, this secondgeneration president of the 90-year-old Hinsdale Animal Cemetery & Crematory looks out for their animals during pet owners’ saddest times.

Approximately 20,000 gravestones dot 12 of the lovely 15 acres, each with an inscription that tugs at the heart of anyone who has lost a furry family member.

Most of the internment services are personal, with just immediate family, says Remkus, “but we’ve had burials with 30 to 40 people attending.”

Although burials and funerals for pets haven’t disappeared, cremation has become the most common choice since Remkus added the oft-requested service in 1992. It is a service he takes just as seriously as burial, which is why Remkus is concerned that a number of less-than-ethical cremation service providers have sprung up in recent years.

Too-trusting pet owners and veterinarians are often unaware of how the deceased pet is treated, says Remkus, adding, “There’s no oversight.”

There is also often no guarantee that the ashes pet owners receive are actually those of their deceased pet. In some instances, it’s possible the ashes may have been mixed with those of other cremated animals.

“What keeps us going is trying to

to six attended cremations.

“It’s kind of the final journey,” says Remkus. “You’ve gone as far as you can go with that pet, to the very end — then you’re taking the ashes back home. To some people, it’s a comfort, the reassurance

“

Approximately 20,000 gravestones dot 12 of the lovely 15 acres, each with an inscription that tugs at the heart of anyone who has lost a furry family member.” educate people,” says Remkus. “We run an open-door policy. We welcome people to see what we do and how we do it — we are totally transparent.

“When they leave here,” adds Remkus, “they know exactly what they retrieved and what they should look for if the need arises again. An educated consumer is hard to take advantage of.”

Members of three trade associations including Pet Loss Professionals Alliance are working to implement stronger cremation standards throughout the industry. Clients should ask their veterinarian specific questions about what will happen to their pets, Remkus suggests, noting good vets will keep a deceased animal for clients to make their own arrangements, if asked.

Reputable crematoriums treat each pet “as an individual,” says Remkus. Many Hinsdale Animal Cemetery clients travel a great distance for the opportunity to be at an “attended cremation,” a more and more common ritual. Customers can witness their pet’s cremation, watching as little or as much as they wish from a viewing window. Some days, Hinsdale hosts five

that it’s their pet.”

Clients who don’t want to attend the cremation should look for companies that track the animal from the time they take custody until cremated remains are returned to the client, Remkus says.

My family was a Hinsdale customer years ago, a choice made with the help of a veterinarian in a time of grief — a decision I feel even better about after meeting Remkus and one of his three adult children working in the family business, a profession they treat as a calling.

Whenever I’ve seen one of their trucks in the neighborhood, I’ve thought about how a family must be hurting. Now I will also think about the butterfly garden Remkus is nurturing on his property.

Remkus rarely hears the comment that was fairly common 45 years ago when he started: “It’s just an animal.”

“People have always felt the same way about their pets,” maintains Remkus. “But years ago, people were ridiculed sometimes, or thought of as being too sentimental. So you kept it a secret and dealt with it. It’s more out in the open now.”

16 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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1/23/17 2:37 PM

LOCAL AUTHORS

By Anne Knudsen

Missing People Lives unravel in the aftermath of an unsolved disappearance

E

tta Messenger is missing. Six years on, her family is still traumatized.

They struggle to get to grips with the Etta-sized hole in their lives.

Downers Grove author Brandon Graham begins his latest psychological mystery novel in the seemingly serene western suburbs. The catalyst is a memorial service to mark the painful anniversary of the unsolved disappearance. Etta’s mother Meg is anxious to find closure and begin the emotional healing she so badly needs.

Charlie, Etta’s earnest blue-collar father, takes stock of his life and is reminded how he failed to protect his daughter. Into this family torn apart by grief, guilt and their own shortcomings comes Etta’s erstwhile

DIET RIGHT FOR YOUR PERSONALITY TYPE

high-school sweetheart Newton, a disabled Afghanistan vet with his own anger issues that quickly spin out of control.

On the day of the memorial, a

MAKING PEACE WITH PANIC NATURALLY

snowstorm threatens. A chance encounter on a Metra commuter train entangles Etta’s younger brother Townes, who was the last to see the missing teen, in a precarious situation that sharply recalls the days that led up to Etta’s loss. As the plot moves into the heart of Chicago’s blighted and dangerous South Austin neighborhood, the characters are shaken by a fast and unrelenting chain of events, including Newton’s arrest, Townes’ foolhardy heroics, and a shocking discovery by Meg that shakes her to her core. Will this ensemble of damaged characters be able to unite and heal, or will new stresses rip their lives to shreds?

Local readers will recognize familiar neighborhoods and landmarks, such as Printer’s Row and Daniel Burnham’s Monadnock Building in the south Loop.

SOPHIE ...BEST FRIENDS ARE FOREVER

by Jen Widerstrom of Lisle.

by Steve Guarino of Aurora.

HERBS IN MY KITCHEN: REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EVERYDAY COOKING

When it comes to dieting,

The personal story of how the

by Ann Powers of Lemont.

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custom-built to suit individual needs and patterns. Widerstrom guides readers through a tailor-made four-week plan, complete with recipes, workouts — and motivation.

For a related article on the author, see Q&A on page 12.

by Ted Slupik of Naperville.

18 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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MUSIC

|

THEATRE

|

COMEDY

|

ART

|

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

|

HOME & GARDEN

|

AND MUCH MORE

Elmhurst College 50th Annual Jazz Festival

Photo courtesy of Elmhurst College

OUT&ABOUT

Feb. 23 - 26 World-class artists perform their music including Dee Dee Bridgewater, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Patrick Williams Big Band and more at this four-day celebration of jazz.

Call 630 617-5534

WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | FEBRUARY 2017 19

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Calendar of Events

Photo courtesy of Jesse Michener

OUT&ABOUT Feb. 25 IRA GLASS The creator, producer and host of "This American Life" takes the stage at McAninch Arts Center as he uses audio clips, music and video to share lessons from his life and career. Call 630 942-4000

| On Golden Pond | Fri − Sun, Feb 17 − 26, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. This 1979 play by Ernest Thompson is the love story of Ethel and Norman as they battle getting older and learn about modern teenage awareness when their "grandchild" is left for them to watch during the summer. Cost: $18/15. Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., 8th Floor, Elgin. 847 741-0532 | Once On This Island | Thur − Sat, Feb 23 − 25, 7:30 − 10 p.m. When the gods who preside over the island make a bet to see who is the strongest, Ti Moune, a girl who lives on the island, must be reunited with Daniel, a wealthy boy she rescued. Cost: $15/10. Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E Benton, Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Beautiful Bodies | Fri − Sun, Feb 24 − 26, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. When six friends gather on the coldest night of the year in a New York apartment for a baby shower, an evening of fun and gossip shifts to poignant truths about love, careers and more. Cost: $17. Martin Recital Hall at Dominican University, 7900 W Division St., River Forest. 708 488-5000

| Random Theft & Other Acts | Through Feb 5, Fri − Sun, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. This comedy describes three over-educated, under-employed suburbanites who find themselves in a perfect storm of the 2008 real estate downturn, the economic crisis, a bank robbery gone wrong and bad karma. Cost: $28/23. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W Main St., St. Charles. 630 587-8521 | The Country House | Through Feb 11, Fri − Sat 8 p.m.; Also, Sat − Sun, Jan 28 − Feb 5, 3 p.m. This play provides a look at a family of performers coming to terms with the roles they play in each other's lives. For more information, visit www.villagetheatreguild.org.

Cost: $20/18. Village Theatre Guild, 3S020 Park Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 469-8230 | The Elephant Man | Through Feb 12, Thur − Sun, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. This play tells the story of John Merrick, a man born with a congenital disorder, and his journey to live a normal life. Cost: $18/15. Playhouse 111, 111 N Hale St., Wheaton. 630 260-1820 | Captain Blood | Through Feb 26, Wed − Sun, Wed & Fri 8 p.m., Thur & Sun 3 p.m. and Sat 4 & 8 p.m. Unjustly sentenced to slavery on a Caribbean island, Dr. Peter Blood falls in love with the lady of the plantation but a life of piracy takes him away from his love. Cost: $39/29.

First Folio Theatre at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 986-8067 | Saturday Night Fever | Through Mar 19, Wed − Sun, Wed 1:30 p.m., Thur 1:30 & 8 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 5 & 8:30 p.m. and Sun 2 & 6 p.m. Based on the 1977 hit film, this musical follows Brooklyn teen, Tony Mareno, in his attempt to escape his tribulations by spending weekends at the local discotheque. Cost: $58/42.

Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Ln., Oakbrook Terrace.

630 530-0111 | The Woman In Black | Thur − Sat, Feb 2 − 4, 8 p.m.

Based on the film, this play tells the story of Arthur Kipps's journey to the Eel Marsh house and his eerie encounters with a strange woman dressed in black. Cost: $5.

Mill Theatre at Elmhurst College, 190 S Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 617-3005 | Good People | Thur − Sun, Feb 2 − Mar 5, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. The Buffalo Theatre Ensemble

presents their production of this Tony Award-winning play about a woman who loses her job and turns to her high school boyfriend for help. Cost: $35. McAninch Arts Center Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

630 942-4000 | Sweeney Todd | Wed − Sun, Feb 8 − Mar 19, Wed 1:30 & 7 p.m., Thur 7 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 3 & 8 p.m. and Sun 1 & 5:30 p.m. After 15 years away from London, Barber Benjamin Barker swears revenge on the corrupt Judge Turpin, who adopted his daughter and seduced his wife, which led to her suicide. Cost: $59/44. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora. 630 896-6666

| Don't Drink The Water | Fri – Sun, Feb 24 − Mar 19, Fri – Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. This farce follows a nice American family, accused of spying, that is trapped in a run-down U.S. Embassy in a country off the tourist map as they try to break out and evade the secret police.

Cost: $28/23. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W Main St., St. Charles. 630 587-8521

| Love, Loss & What I Wore | Thur − Sun, Feb 9 − 19, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m.; Additional shows on Sun, Feb 12, 7:30 p.m. and Sat, Feb 18, 2:30 p.m. This play is a celebration of women, clothes and memories, based on the best-seller by Ilene Beckerman. Cost: $22/12. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs.

708 246-3380

| Black Girl Magic/She Means War | Sat, Feb 25, 6:30 p.m. This original piece written and directed by Maurice D. Proffit tells the story of four young ladies as they grow together as neighbors and best friends in the South side of Chicago. Cost: $30/25. Maggie Atcher Theatre, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg. 847 895-3600

| The Boys Next Door | Fri − Sun, Feb 10 − 19, Fri − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 2 p.m. This play tells the story of four men living in Boston with various mental disabilities who are residing in a group home together. Cost: $18/15. Grove Players, Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove.

630 415-3682

| Agatha Christie's Murder On The Nile | Sat, Feb 25, 8 p.m. View one of the writer's greatest mysteries as performed by Aquila Theatre company, as they tell the story of a murder taking place on a paddle steamer Photo courtesy of Batavia Fine Arts Centre

THEATRE

| Avenue Q | Fri − Sun, Feb 24 − Mar 5, Fri − Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Filled with adult-themed humor and wit, this musical tells the story of a college grad's transition to life in New York City, specifically a neighborhood on Avenue Q. Cost: $20/18. SecondSpace Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin.

847 622-0300

| You Can't Take It With You | Thur − Sat, Feb 10 − Mar 4, Thur − Fri 7:30 p.m. and Sat 2 & 7:30 p.m.; No 2 p.m. show Sat, Feb 11. When Alice brings her highsociety fiancé home to meet her eccentric family, fireworks and zany antics nearly bring the house down.

Cost: $20/13. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions, Medinah Baptist Church, 900 Foster Ave., Medinah.

630 634-2100 | A Twist Of Lemmon | Sat, Feb 11, 7:30 p.m. Chronicling the lifelong journey of Chris Lemmon and his father Jack Lemmon, this production features an original score and dozens of stars playing the roles. Cost: $40/38. Maggie Atcher Theatre, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg.

847 895-3600 | Carmen | Sun, Feb 12, 3 p.m. Performed by Teatro Lirico D'Europa, this opera tells the classic French story of Carmen, featuring English subtitles, elaborate costumes and more. Cost: $69/29. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000

Feb. 4 AN EVENING WITH MOLLY RINGWALD This Golden Globe-nominated actress, writer and singer performs her jazz music on the stage at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre. Call 630 937-8930

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cruising the legendary Nile River in 1940s Egypt. Cost: $33/17. Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium, Kirk Rd. and Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | The Ballad Of The Sad Cafe | Thur − Sun, Mar 2 − 19, Thur − Sat 8 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. When a twisted love triangle affects the Sad Cafe and the whole town, Marvin and Miss Amelia must try to settle their differences. Cost: $14/12. Studio Theatre at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | The Burnt Part Boys | Thur − Sat, Mar 9 − 11, Thur − Fri 8 p.m. and Sat 2 & 8 p.m. When a deadly coal mine is set to reopen in a small town, the sons of those that were killed try their hardest to keep the mine from ever opening again. Cost: $7/5. Mill Theatre at Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. 630 617-3005

COMEDY | Tammy Pescatelli | Thur − Sun, Feb 9 − 12, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m.

One of the Final Five on NBC's "Last Comic Standing 2," this comedian presents her unique humor and opens for a special Valentine's Day dinner Friday through Sunday.

For ages 18 and over. Cost: $60/22 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Nick DiPaolo | Fri − Sat, Feb 10 − 11, Fri 8 & 10:30 p.m. and Sat 7 & 9:30 p.m. This comedian, Emmy Awardnominated writer, actor and radio host has appeared on Comedy Central, HBO and “The Chris Rock Show,” and wrote for the 77th Annual Academy Awards. Cost: $25 + 2 item min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont. 847 813-0484

Photo courtesy of Batavia Fine Arts Centre

| My Funny Valentine | Tue, Feb 14, 7:30 p.m.

Comedians Pat Hazell and Karen Morgan join forces for a night of stand-up comedy that touches on parenting, dating, relationships and more. Cost: $37/32. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Ron White | Fri, Feb 17, 7 p.m. Known as a Grammy nominated comedian and feature film actor, White hits the stage with his iconic stories and jokes. Cost: $70/49. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N Chicago St., Joliet.

815 726-6600 | Bobby Lee | Fri − Sun, Feb 17 − 19, Fri 8 & 10:15 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. This popular comedian is known for his roles on MADtv and in "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle." For ages 18 and over. Cost: $28 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg. 847 240-2001 | Mike Lawrence | Sat, Feb 18, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Nominated for two Emmy Awards for being on the staff of "Inside Amy Schumer" and winner of the inaugural Comedy Central special Roast Battle tournament, this comedian has written for and performed on many different comedy shows. Cost: $22 + 2 item food/bev min. Zanies Comedy Club in MB Financial Park, 5437 Park Pl., Rosemont.

847 813-0484 | Piff The Magic Dragon | Thur − Sun, Feb 23 − 26, Thur 7:30 p.m., Fri 7:30 & 9:45 p.m., Sat 7 & 9:15 p.m. and Sun 7 p.m. Known for his performance on season 10 of "America's Got Talent," this magician/comedian and his dog, Mr. Piffles, return to the stage. For ages 18 and over.

Cost: $54/28 + 2 item min. Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Rd., Woodfield Mall, Store K120B, Schaumburg.

847 240-2001

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OUT&ABOUT

Calendar of Events

Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

MUSIC | Tesla | Wed, Feb 1, 7:30 p.m. Popular in the '80s, this rock band hits the stage again and performs their songs.

Cost: $125/59. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles.

630 962-7000 | The Life & Music Of Laura Ingalls Wilders | Fri, Feb 3, 10 a.m. The Elgin Master Chorale celebrates 70 years of bringing choral music to the Fox Valley with an actress portraying the famous author's life through song. Cost: $24/19. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Northern Illinois University Jazz Band | Fri, Feb 3, 8 p.m. Enjoy a night of swing, blues and more at this jazz performance. For more information, visit www. theatreofwesternsprings.com. Cost: $30/25. Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs.

708 246-3380

Feb. 17 - 20 MONSTER JAM TRIPLE THREAT SERIES View the world's largest monster truck tour featuring champions such as Grave Digger, Maximum Destruction and more as they perform stunts, race and more at Allstate Arena. Call 847 635-6601

| An Evening With Molly Ringwald | Sat, Feb 4, 7:30 p.m. This Golden Globe-nominated actress, writer and singer performs her jazz music on the stage. Cost: $51/29. Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1201 Main St., Batavia.

630 937-8930 | The Wall Live Extravaganza | Sat, Feb 4, 8 p.m.

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd with this concert which features songs from the album and themes from the movie. Cost: $59/39. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Mobius Trio | Sun, Feb 5, 2:15 p.m. These three young guitarists present a program which emphasizes their traditional side, including transcriptions from composers

Maurice Ravel and Joaquin Rodrigo. Registration required. Cost: $30/25. Arbor Room of the Thornhill Education Center at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 725-2066 | The Three Celli | Sun, Feb 5, 2:30 p.m. Made up of a former member of the Chicago Symphony and a professor of cello at DePaul University, a member of the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra, and a professor at Roosevelt University, this ensemble performs classical

cello pieces. Cost: $17. Art Gallery at Fermilab, Kirk Rd. and Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | Frank... A Musical Journey | Fri, Feb 10, 7:30 p.m.

Rick Michel and his 12-piece orchestra commemorate Frank Sinatra with some of the singer's greatest hits.

Cost: $56/45. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | An Evening With Jazz Trumpeter Art Davis | Fri, Feb

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Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

10, 8 p.m. One of Chicago's leading jazz trumpet artists, Davis has toured with Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra and Rosemary Clooney. Cost: $20/15. Madden Theatre, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Foghat & Mark Farner | Fri, Feb 10, 8 p.m. Listen to the musical entertainment of Foghat featuring a special guest performance by Mark Farner, formerly of Grand Funk Railroad. Cost: $99/59. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Elvis Lives | Sat, Feb 11, 7:30 p.m. This tour features a journey across Elvis' life featuring winners and finalists from Elvis Presley Enterprises's annual worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest performing his hit songs and moves. Cost: $146/40. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 | En Vogue | Sat, Feb 11, 8 p.m. Fusing style, sophistication, sass and appeal, this group has sold more than eight million albums and hits the stage with their iconic music. Cost: $85/75. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Micky Dolenz | Sat, Feb 11, 8 p.m. An original "Monkee" celebrates the band's 50th anniversary with an all-Monkees hits show. Cost: $69/39. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | Elgin Symphony Orchestra: Romance At The Fountains Of Rome | Sat − Sun, Feb 11 − 12, Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m. Enjoy this concert featuring Liadov's "The Enchanted Lake," Dukas' "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" and more. For tickets, visit www.elginsymphony.org. Cost: $30. The Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. 847 888-4000 | The Five Irish Tenors | Sun, Feb 12, 2 p.m. Direct from Dublin and following in the footsteps of the great Irish tenor John McCormack, this voice ensemble fuses Irish wit and boisterous charm with unique lyrics and operatic style. Cost: $69/49. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

630 942-4000 | DuPage Symphony Orchestra: Russian Majesty | Sun, Feb 12, 3 p.m. This concert features Rimsky-Korsakov's Symphony No. 2 "Antar" as well as Prokofiev's "Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major" with a special performance by internationally acclaimed soloist Steven Lin. For tickets, visit www.dupagesymphony.org. Cost: $38/33.

Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville.

630 637-7469 | Cornerstones of Rock: American Garage | Tue, Feb 14, 7:30 p.m. The newest concert series takes its live production tour to the stage with special performances from The Buckinghams, the Ides of March and more as a celebration of the local "garage bands" that rose to national prominence in the 60s and 70s. Cost: $89/59.

Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles. 630 962-7000 | The Musical Box | Fri, Feb 17, 8 p.m. This band is the exclusive, authorized by Peter Gabriel, recreation of Genesis formed in 1993 and hits the stage with songs from the "Selling England By the Pound" album. Cost: $79/39. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles.

630 962-7000 | Alyssa Allgood: Cabaret | Sun, Feb 19, 6 − 8 p.m. This North Central alum and Chicago-based jazz vocalist was a top ten semifinalist in the 2015 Shure Montreux Jazz Voice Competition and returns to bring songs from her working full-length album. Cost: $35/30. Madden Theatre, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Elmhurst College 50th Annual Jazz Festival | Thur

– Sun, Feb 23 – 26. World-class artists perform their music including Dee Dee Bridgewater, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Patrick Williams Big Band and more.

For full schedule and more information, visit www. elmhurst.edu. Cost: $36/10. Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel at Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst.

630 617-5534 | Songs Of Praise | Fri, Feb 24, 7:30 p.m. Listen to Bach's "A Mighty Fortress is Our God," Mendelssohn's "Hymn of Praise" and a choral work by James MacMillan entitled "Alpha and Omega." Cost: $45/10. Edman Memorial Chapel at Wheaton College, NE corner of Washington and Franklin St., Wheaton. 630 752-5010 | Ana Popovic | Fri, Feb 24, 8 p.m. This award-winning guitarist brings songs from her albums "Can You Stand the Heat" and "Unconditional." Cost: $35/25.

Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville.

630 637-7469 | American English | Sat, Feb 25, 7 p.m. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album and George Harrison's birthday with this tribute band. Cost: $39/35. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Elmhurst Choral Union: Medley Of Melodies | Sat, Feb 25, 7 p.m. This ensemble gives back to the community in a concert of choruses and solos from Broadway, pop and classic songs. First United Methodist Church, 232 S York Rd., Elmhurst. www.elmhurstchoralunion.org | Runa | Sat, Feb 25, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy Celtic folk and contemporary music from this Pennsylvania-based band. Cost: $20. Maple Street Chapel, 200 S Main St., Lombard. 630 627-0171 | The Worship Tour: We Are Here | Sat, Feb 25, 8 p.m.

Featuring multiple award-winning gospel artists such as Anthony Brown and Travis Greene, this tour celebrates traditional and contemporary Christian rock and pop music. Cost: $148/33. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 | DuPage Symphony Orchestra: Baroque Favorites | Sun, Feb 26, 3 p.m. A chamber orchestra and smaller ensembles, drawn from the larger DSO, present an afternoon performance of chamber pieces. Cost: $85/8. First United Methodist Church, 155 S Main St., Lombard. www.dupagesymphony.org | Brantley Gilbert | Thur, Mar 2, 7 p.m. Bringing his "The Devil Don't Sleep" Tour to the stage, this singer is known for his songs "Bottoms Up" and "One Hell of an Amen."

Cost: $43/28. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 |Elgin Symphony Orchestra: Copland & Tchaikovsky| Fri, Mar 3, 7:30 p.m. Listen to different symphonies and tunes from both famous composers. For tickets, visit www.elginsymphony.org. Cost: $45/30. Schaumburg Prairie Arts Center, 201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg.

847 895-3600; Additional concerts Sat − Sun, Mar 4 − 5, Sat 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m., The Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. 847 888-4000 | Peter Yarrow | Fri, Mar 3, 7:30 p.m. Known for his songs "Puff the Magic Dragon" and "Blowin' in the Wind," this singer shares his personal stories of being a musician in the 1960s as well as life in Greenwich Village. Cost: $45/33. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Janis, Me & Bobby McGee | Sat, Mar 4, 7 p.m.

Powerhouse vocalist Karen Irwin and her band celebrate

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Calendar of Events Photo courtesy of Shervin Lainez

Photos by Graham Webb

OUT&ABOUT Mar. 11 PANIC! AT THE DISCO

LINEA

This alternative band, known for their songs "Victorious" and "Emperor's New Clothes," brings its "Death of a Bachelor" tour to the Allstate Arena stage.

Call 847 635-6601

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Convenient Hours: Mon 9am-8pm; Tues 9am-9pm; Wed 8am-8pm; Thurs 6am-10pm; Fri & Sat 6am-5pm 518 N. Main Street,Glen Ellyn 630.790.8001 • www.lineasalon.com

the life and music of Janis Joplin. Cost: $39/33. Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin. 847 622-0300 | Get The Led Out | Sat, Mar 4, 8 p.m. Bringing the iconic music of Led Zeppelin to the stage again, this cover band utilizes the original songs and incorporates a new twist on them with acoustic sets and more. Cost: $65/20. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont.

847 671-5100 | The Prairie Winds Quintet | Sun, Mar 5, 2:15 p.m.

This traditional woodwind quintet features a clarinet, bassoon, flute, oboe and French horn performing Debussy, Mozart and Ravel. Cost: $30/25. Arbor Room of the Thornhill Education Center at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468 | Picosa Ensemble | Sun, Mar 5, 2:30 p.m. This new Chicago-based mixed chamber ensemble is known for their signature symphonic sound and virtuosity. Cost: $17. Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium, Kirk Rd. and Pine St., Batavia. 630 840-2787 | Laury Shelley | Sun, Mar 5, 6 p.m. Bringing songs from her critically-acclaimed "Pieces Of Dreams," this vocalist and songwriter has been nominated for an Academy Award. Cost: $35/30. Madden Theatre, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469

ART | A Sense Of Place | Through Feb 12, Tue − Sun, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m.

Celebrate the art museum's 20th anniversary with its first open call exhibition featuring all different mediums of art focusing on why certain places hold special meaning to particular people. Free with admission.

Cost: $8/7. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 834-0202 | Contemporary Native American Artists | Through Feb 28, Mon − Sat, Mon − Fri 11 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. View artwork from four Native American artists including artifacts from the Trickster Art Gallery.

Komechak Art Gallery at Benedictine University, 5700 College Rd., Lisle. 630 829-6320

| Nadia Hironaka & Matthew Suib | Through Mar 4, Mon − Thur & Sat, Mon − Wed & Sat 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. and Thur 11 a.m. − 3 p.m. & 6 − 8 p.m. These artists employ the tools and conventions of moving-image culture to offer counter-mythical visions of the contemporary world.

Cleve Carney Art Gallery, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

630 942-2321 | Studio Conversations Art Exhibit | Through Mar 23, Mon − Sun, Mon − Fri 8 a.m. − 8 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Sun noon − 8 p.m. View works by Mary Bookwalter, Janice Meister and Carol Weber as they present their mixed media collages which focus on the ideas and interactions they had with each other's artwork. Oesterle Library Gallery, 320 E School St., Naperville. 630 637-5375 | Angie Lister | Mon − Sun, Feb 4 − Mar 26, Mon & Sat 10 a.m. − 6 p.m., Tue − Fri 10 a.m. − 9 p.m. and Sun noon − 5 p.m. Exploring the dynamic relationships between shapes, forms and colors, this artist focuses on the interplay between the natural world and man-made objects. Schoenherr Gallery at the Fine Arts Center, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-5375 |Art At Mayslake: Botanical Art, Hibernating Nature| Mon, Feb 6, 9:30 a.m. − noon. Study the colors and textures of plants at Mayslake, learn how to record your observations in a sketchbook and develop a finished piece in graphite or watercolor. For ages 18 and over.

Registration required. Cost: $130 + $10 supply fee per person. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 206-9566 | Michael Klaus Schmidt | Tue − Sun, Feb 19 − Mar 31, Tue − Thur & Sat − Sun 11 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Fri 11 a.m. − 7 p.m. This Illinois artist showcases small, mixed-media paintings and designs with unique patterns and colors.

Cost: $8/7. Elmhurst Artists' Guild, 150 Cottage Hill Rd., Elmhurst. 630 279-1009

FAMILY & GENERAL | Enchanted Railroad | Through Feb 19, Mon − Sun, Mon − Fri 10 a.m. − 4 p.m. and Sat − Sun 9 a.m. − 4 p.m.

This interactive display features two levels of model trains, including a miniature replica of an Amtrak train, that wind through all four seasons, as well as a LEGO train car made of 2,500 LEGO bricks. The Morton Arboretum, 4100

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Photo courtesy of Shervin Lainez

Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | Wonders Of Winter | Sat, Feb 4, 10 a.m. − 1 p.m. Go on a horse-drawn hayride, take a nature hike and try ice fishing and other activities at this outdoor family event to celebrate winter. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W 31st St., Oak Brook. 630 933-7248 | Downers Grove Ice Festival | Fri − Sun, Feb 10 − 12, Fri 5:30 p.m. and Sat − Sun 11 a.m. Enjoy live ice carving, a magic show, participating store promotions and more. For full schedule, visit www.downtowndg.org.

Downtown Downers Grove. 630 725-0991 | Monster Jam Triple Threat Series | Fri − Mon, Feb 17 − 20, Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 1 & 7 p.m., Sun 1 & 6:30 p.m. and Mon 1 p.m. View the world's largest monster truck tour featuring champions such as Grave Digger, Maximum Destruction and more as they perform stunts, race and more. Cost: $65/22. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | World Of Wheels | Fri − Sun, Mar 3 − 5, Fri 3 − 10 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. − 10 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m. − 6 p.m. One of the largest car show series in the business comes to the area with hot rods, manufacturers displays and more.

Cost: $20/6. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd., Rosemont. www.autorama.com | Mike Super 2.OH! | Sat, Mar 4, 7:30 p.m. The winner of NBC's hit show "Phenomenon" and a top finalist on NBC's "America's Got Talent" brings his magic and illusions to the stage. Cost: $150/46. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

630 942-4000

KIDS | Dream With Da Vinci | Through Apr 2, Mon − Thur 9 a.m. − 4 p.m., Fri 9 a.m. − 8 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. − 5 p.m. and Sun noon − 5 p.m. This 2,000 square-foot travelling exhibit features Da Vinci-themed hands-on activities, crafts and more. Cost: $12/10. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N Washington St., Naperville. 630 637-8000 | Pete The Cat | Fri, Feb 3, 9:45 & 11:30 a.m. The cat that never loses his cool moves in with a boy who never strays from his routine, resulting in a new adventure for friendship and a trip to Paris. For ages 3 − 9. Cost: $20/12.

McAninch Arts Center Playhouse Theatre, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | Fish N' Freeze Ice Fishing Derby | Sat, Feb 11, 9 − 11 a.m. Catch different fish species including bluegill and catfish and win fishing related prizes. For more information, visit www.southelgin.com. Blackhawk Park Pond, 1479 Blackhawk Cir., South Elgin. 847 742-5780 | Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood | Sun, Feb 12, 2 p.m. Based on the television show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," this tiger and his friends bring audiences on an interactive musical adventure of make-believe and friendship. Cost: $75/25. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont. 847 671-5100 | The Lightening Thief | Fri, Feb 24, 9:45 & 11:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Experience the tale of Percy Jackson as he solves the riddles of the gods, traverses the perils of Olympus and tries to return Zeus' stolen lightening.

Cost: $20/8. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 | The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe | Fri − Sun, Feb 24 − 26, Fri 7 p.m., Sat 3 & 7 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Enjoy this youth production of the C.S. Lewis tale of the Pevensies

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CARMEN

Wor th Going Downtown For - George Takei - Sat, Feb 4, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a night of stories and humorous behind-the-scenes insight into "Star Trek" from Mr. Sulu himself as well as a screening of the classic film "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan." Cost: $85/65.

Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago. 312 462-6300 - Long Yun Kung Fu Troupe - Sat, Feb 4, 7:30 p.m. Celebrate Chinese New Year with performers hand-picked by Jackie Chan as they perform traditional Chinese dances mixed with elements of kung fu. Cost: $155/33. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy., Chicago.

800 982-2787

- Love's Labor's Lost - Feb 7 − Mar 26. This Shakespearian comedy tells the story of the King of Navarre and his three companions as they attempt to forswear the company of a group of women.

For showtimes and tickets, visit www.chicagoshakes.com. Cost: $88/48. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E Grand Ave., Chicago. 312 595-5600 - Reel Science Film Series - Thur, Feb 9, 5:30 p.m. Watch the sci-fi film, "The Fifth Element" and discuss archeology and archeoastronomy, urban development, the future of space travel and more. Cost: $22/10. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S Lake Shore Dr., Chicago. 312 922-7827

- Uncle Vanya - Wed − Sun, Feb 11 − Mar 12. When the health of an elderly professor starts to fail, his extended family is forced to confront their futures, while still discussing their disconcerning

past. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.goodmantheatre.org.

Cost: $55/15. Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St., Chicago.

312 443-3800

- Carmen - Feb 11 − Mar 25. Enjoy this production of the classic opera with the original music by George Bizet. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.lyricopera.org.

Cost: $350/17. Lyric Opera Chicago, 20 N Wacker Dr., Chicago.

312 827-5600 - Festival Of Laughs - Tue, Feb 14, 7 p.m. Experience a night of laughs and comedy with comedians such as Bruce Bruce, Mike Eggs, Tony Rock and more. Cost: $125/52. UIC Pavilion, 525 S Racine Ave., Chicago. 312 413-5740

- Game Changers - Feb 15 − 26.

View the Joffrey Ballet as they perform their show featuring three numbers, "INFRA," "Fool's Paradise" and "Year of the Rabbit." For showtimes and tickets, visit www.auditoriumtheatre. org. Cost: $159/34. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Congress Pkwy., Chicago.

800 982-2787

- Adler After Dark: Cosmic Clue - Thur, Feb 16, 6 p.m. Travel back to 1935 Chicago and enjoy a murder mystery of cosmic proportions with special presentations, food, drinks and more.

Cost: $25/15. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S Lake Shore Dr., Chicago.

312 922-7827

- The Invention Of Morel - Sat, Feb 18 & Fri, Feb 24, 7:30 p.m.; Also, Sun, Feb 26, 3 p.m. Based on the 1940s novel by Adolfo

Bioy Casares, this world premiere opera tells the story of an escaped fugitive who arrives on an isolated island and finds a strikingly beautiful woman. Cost: $125/39. Chicago Opera Theatre, 70 E Lake St. Suite 415, Chicago.

312 704-8414

- The Illusionists - Tue − Sun, Feb 21 − 26. Enjoy this illusion show featuring seven different magic acts. Cost: $62/13. Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph St., Chicago.

800 775-2000

- Game Of Thrones - Wed, Feb

as they traverse Narnia in an effort to get back their brother and save the land from the White Witch. For tickets and costs, visit www.genevaparks.org. Playhouse 38, 321 Stevens St. Suite P, Geneva. 630 232-4542 | The Rainbow Fish | Sun. Feb 26, noon. Based on the celebrated children's book, this play tells the story of the most beautiful fish in the ocean who doesn't want to share her shimmering scales. Cost: $12/6. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469 | Elephant & Piggie's We Are In A Play! | Tue, Feb 28, 9:45 & 11:30 a.m. Best friends and opposites Elephant Gerald and Piggie find themselves on a musical adventure in this adaptation of Mo Willems's awardwinning "Elephant & Piggie" books. Cost: $8. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-2220 | Ozma Of Oz | Fri − Sun, Mar 3 − 12, Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m.; No 4 p.m. show on Sat, Mar 4. This modern fantasy explores the relationship between a now-teenage Dorothy and her elderly Uncle Henry as they travel to Australia but arrive in Oz again.

Cost: $12/6. Children's Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. 708 246-3380 | Dinosaur Discovery | Sat, Mar 4, 2 p.m. Learn about the world of paleontologists and dinosaurs with activities, view live animals to see how they relate to dinosaurs and more. Reservations recommended. Free for members. Cost: $5. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630 833-1616 | Chord For Kids Concert | Sat, Mar 4, 7 p.m. The 11th annual concert for children with special needs features popular tunes including "YMCA," "Spider Pig," "Spongebob" and more. Ticket required. Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E Chicago Ave., Naperville. 630 637-7469

HOME & GARDEN

22, 8 p.m. Enter the world of the popular television/book series through immersive visuals and music. Cost: $210/40. United Center, 1901 W Madison St., Chicago. 312 455-4500

| Perennials For A Changing Future | Sat, Feb 4, 8:30 a.m. − 4:30 p.m. Spend a day learning from experts how to improve your perennial garden and discover new varieties for the coming season. Registration required.

Cost: $112/95. Thornhill Education Center at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 719-2468

- Wilco - Wed − Thur & Sat − Sun, Feb 22 − 26, 7:30 p.m. Grammy Award-winning alternative rock band brings its iconic songs to the stage. Cost: $85/50. Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St., Chicago.

312 462-6300

| The Old House New House Home Show | Fri − Sun, Feb 10 − 12, 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. View the latest in home improvements and explore the exhibits from 300 select experts. For more information, visit www.kennedyproductions.com. Free for children under 18. Cost: $7/4. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles. 630-584-6300

- Jeanette Andrews: Hyperception - Thur, Feb 23, 7 − 8:30 p.m.

Enjoy an evening of interactive illusions designed to heighten each of the senses. Cost: $55/25.

Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St., Chicago. 312 742-2000

- Brain Candy Live! - Sat, Mar 4, 8 p.m. This event features Adam Savage, best known for his role on "Mythbusters," and YouTube star Michael Stevens as they come together to demonstrate curiosity and fun. Cost: $72/22.

Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph St., Chicago. 800 775-2000

FASHION & BRIDAL | TransWorld's Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show | Thur − Sun, Feb 16 − 19, Thur 10 a.m. − 5:30 p.m. and Fri −Sun 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Meet with buyers, find the newest product lines, snack on gourmet food and more at this annual show. Registration required. Cost: $10/5.

Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd., Rosemont. www.jfashow.com | Spring Style Weekend | Fri – Sun, Mar 3 – 5. Three days of spring fashion, food and special sales at participating shops. Various locations throughout downtown Naperville. www.downtownnaperville.com | Bridal Showcase | Sat, Feb 25, 9 a.m. Showcase

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Photo courtesy of Wheaton College

Calendar of Events Photo courtesy of Lynn Lane / Houston Grand Opera

OUT&ABOUT

Photo courtesy of Wheaton College

featuring vendors to help you plan your dream wedding including photographers, caterers, florists and more.

Shannon Hall in the Eastside Community Center, 14 N Van Buren St., Batavia. 630 879-5235 | Geneva Wedding Walk | Sun, Mar 5, 11 a.m. − 3:30 p.m. Meet with venues and boutique shops, then visit with some of the top wedding businesses in the area.

Cost: $45/30. Herrington Inn & Spa, 15 S River Ln., Geneva. 630 208-7433

FOOD & DRINK | Downtown Naperville Chocolate Walk | Sat, Feb 11, noon − 5 p.m. Tour the participating Naperville shops with a Commemorative Chocolate Tin and map to receive chocolate treats and surprises. For more information, visit www.360youthservices.org. Cost: $25.

Downtown Naperville. 630 961-2992 | Chocolate Weekend | Sat − Sun, Feb 11 − 12, 9 a.m. − 4 p.m. Discover chocolate's deeply rooted tree history and taste and shop for treats. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. 630 968-0074 | In Good Taste | Mon − Sun, Feb 23 − Mar 5. Enjoy special menu items, pre-fixe menus, special events and more at participating restaurants. Downtown Wheaton. www.downtownwheaton.com | St. Charles Restaurant Week | Mon − Fri, Feb 27 −Mar 3.

Tour downtown St. Charles restaurants for specials and more. For more information, visit www.stcharlesil.gov.

Downtown St. Charles. 630 443-4093

SPORTS | Chicago Wolves | Fridays, Feb 3 − 10; Saturdays, Feb 4 & 25 and Mar 4; Sundays, Feb 12 & 26 and Mar 5; Wed, Feb 22; and Thur Mar 9; Wed 11 a.m., Thur − Sat 7 p.m. and Sun 3 p.m. Chicago's AHL ice hockey team plays at its home rink in Rosemont. Cost: $38/11. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601 | Windy City Bulls | Tue, Feb 7; Thur, Feb 9; Fri, Mar 3; Sat, Feb 11 & Mar 4; and Mon, Mar 6, 7 p.m.; Also, Wed, Mar 8, 10 a.m. The Chicago Bulls D-league team plays at its home court. Cost: $25/14. Sears Centre Arena, 5333

net.

Feb. 24 SONGS OF PRAISE Listen to Bach's "A Mighty Fortress is Our God," Mendelssohn's "Hymn of Praise" and a choral work by James MacMillan entitled "Alpha and Omega," featuring Conductor John Nelson at Edman Memorial Chapel, Wheaton College.

Call 630 752-5010

Prairie Stone Pkwy., Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | Glory Kickboxing | Fri, Feb 24, 5:30 p.m. This event brings some of the biggest kickboxers in the country under one roof. Cost: $170/35. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy., Hoffman Estates. 847 649-2270 | WWE Monday Night Raw | Mon, Mar 6, 6:30 p.m.

Superstar wrestlers including Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar and more compete. Cost: $125/20. Allstate Arena, 6920 N Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. 847 635-6601

LITERATURE | Veronica Roth | Thur, Feb 9, 7 p.m. Known for her "Divergent" series, this international best-selling author launches a new fantasy series titled "Carve The Mark."

Cost: $26. Community Christian Church, 1635 Emerson Ln., Naperville. www.andersonsbookshop.com

LECTURES | Bill Rancic | Wed, Feb 8, 7 p.m. This successful entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker shares stories and lessons about his life and work. Cost: $35/15.

Goodwin Hall Auditorium at Benedictine University, 5700 College Rd., Lisle. 630 829-6406 | Gloria Santora | Wed, Feb 15, 6:30 p.m. Tasked with protecting the McDonald's brand across the globe, Santora oversees the company's global legal compliance and regulatory teams and speaks about her experiences in this field. Registration required. Martin Recital Hall at Dominican University, 7900 W Division St., River Forest. 708 488-5000 | Ira Glass | Sat, Feb 25, 8 p.m. The creator, producer and host of "This American Life" uses audio clips, music and video to share lessons from his life and career. Cost: $175/69. Belushi Performance Hall at McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. 630 942-4000 Information is as accurate as possible, but times and dates do sometimes change and events are occasionally canceled. Please call to verify all critical information. To have an event included in this guide, send information two to three months in advance to: Out & About, P.O. Box 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or wsl@westsuburbanliving.

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Ethnic Eateries

SPANISH Emilio’s Tapas, Hillside

A taste-worthy sampling of the global culinary smorgasbord in our midst

U

by Jay Copp

Unless you enjoy driving and don’t mind battling traffic, you really don’t need to go to Chicago for first-rate ethnic food. The western suburbs have an ever-increasing number of quality ethnic restaurants, particularly in inner-ring towns such as Oak Park. We’ve included some well-known restaurants — too good to miss. But our goal was to zero in on some hidden gems, places not as popular as they ought to be.

We also focused on less common cuisines to the exclusion of more mainstream offerings such as Italian, French and Irish. Our plate was quite full without them. So, as the Poles say, smacznego (enjoy your meal)!

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s

Hillside

KOREAN Hanbun, Westmont Hidden gem? Hanbun checks all the boxes. It’s located in a remote strip mall. The counter is perhaps 15 feet wide, and Hanbun shares table space with four other Oriental restaurants in an otherwise bland food court. The others are patronized by Taiwanese, while Hanbun’s clientele is 80 percent non-Korean and 20 percent Korean. It’s open only for lunch, and the sparse menu has fewer than 10 items. The food is Korean yet it’s not. “It’s not traditional Korean. It has the soul of Korean food created through a modernist lens,” says Chef and Co-owner David Park, 27, a Korean native who grew up in New Jersey, attended the prestigious Culinary Institute of America and honed his talents at fancy restaurants.

The food is uniformly creative and delicious. Try the Korean pork bun, coffee-scented pork braised with soy sauce and flavored with white kimchi and scallions. The bulgogi is another winner — impossibly tender marinated beef served with a crisp apple and arugula salad. The chicken is also cooked to perfection for the bibimbap, served with a soft-cooked egg.

Park runs Hanbun with Jennifer Tran, his fiancée. Four nights a week they clear out part of the kitchen and hold tasting dinners for six to nine people, who hear of Hanbun through word-of-mouth or social media. The food in the evening is more adventurous and upscale. “People look at us as a bucket-list place,” says Park, who one day hopes to open a bigger restaurant in the city.

Kogii Kogii Express, Naperville Never had Korean food? Come here and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how accessible it can be to American taste buds, even those of hard-to-please teenagers or seniors not typically food-adventurous.

The fried dumplings are nice and greasy.

and lentils. All menu items can be made to accommodate vegetarians and vegans.

The pad thai is the go-to dish for first-time patrons as well as many regulars. It’s a highly satisfying blend of sweet and salty, sour and spice. The deep-fried crab rangoon is decadently delicious. The crab fried rice is made with real crab meat.

The dining spot earns extra points for its Bangkok-like décor. The waiting area contains Thai-style couches and chairs, an exotic statue and a photo of an imposing Thai king. The decorations add to the overall experience of being in another culture and happily traveling GREEK Papaspiros, Oak Park far from the beaten path of burgers and pizza. that — warm rice topped with cooked Thai Happiness, Downers Grove veggies, meat and, best of all, gochujang Decent Thai restaurants are not hard sauce (hot chili paste). to find. But this strip-mall mainstay is several notches above ordinary. Quaint THAI and affordable, it has been run by the same Bodhi Thai Bistro, Berwyn family for many years, first by the family A native of Thailand, Jack Sanseeha patriarch and now by his daughter, as he opened Bodhi Thai Bistro over his own passed away a few years ago. The service is frustrations with seeking out authentic friendly, and the food is very good across Thai food. A Thai eatery in nearby Oak the board. Especially satisfying are the Park would not deliver to his home in not-so-spicy red curry with beef and the Berwyn. So seven years ago Sanseeha satay chicken with peanut sauce. established this cute, 11-table gem on the east end of Berwyn. Its cadre of loyal Bangkok Village, Naperville customers swears by it. And those who Probably the first Thai restaurant come for the first time vow to come back. in Naperville when it opened back in On this winter day, chef Rosy Colin the Reagan era (1989), Bangkok Village and Danielle Jenca, 20-somethings from is beloved by its loyal patrons for its Pilsen, traveled here to check it out after consistently delicious entrées. The reading the raves on Yelp. “We like to try massaman curry with chicken stands different restaurants,” says Colin, who out: “Wow, sweet, spicy, crunchy, ordered the Pad Curry Noodles and Tom chewy … amazing flavors from the mix Yum soup. “It’s awesome. I’ll definitely of pineapple, peanut and potatoes,” be back.” She gets no arguments from her raved a patron online. The Spicy Chicken friend. “It’s better than Chinese. It’s light, Paradise also has devoted fans. refreshing. You can try a bunch of different dishes,” says Jenca, who also works in the Cida Thai, Countryside restaurant industry.

No way a nondescript, strip-mall Bodhi Thai Bistro specializes in eatery can be this fabulous. But eating is northeastern Thai fare, less spicy than believing. Since under new management expected. Many dishes use lime juice The fried chicken is doused with garlic and soy. But the meat is moist and the skin is crispy. Take a chance on the signature dish, the wonderful bibimbap, which means “mixed rice.” But it’s far more than

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open-minded. They try different things.

They come here and love it.”

Luong-Loi Restaurant, Wheaton From the way-cool industrial-chic décor to the egg drop soup topped with fried garlic to the pure-tasting pho, this favorite in downtown Wheaton clicks on all cylinders. It also offers Chinese food.

The Kung Pao Chicken never disappoints.

JAPANESE Sushi House, Multiple Locations

a year ago, Cida has become a go-to spot for Thai food lovers. Highly recommended are the crab rangoon, the red curry and the massaman curry. “The curry is delicious,” says Kelsey Kelliher of La Grange. “It’s not too heavy on the coconut milk. At some other Thai places, there’s too much coconut milk or the food is too oily.

The curries here strike a good balance.”

The restaurant is notable as well for its feminine touch — the décor is on the lighter side, there’s a stuffed bear in the entryway, and the Snoopy tablecloths and customized glassware add a whimsical feel.

VIETNAMESE Saigon Pho, Oak Park Fee, fi, pho … pho, pho, pho! Pho is a Vietnamese staple, a noodle soup made from broth, herbs and beef or chicken.

No one locally does pho (it’s actually pronounced “fuh”) better than Saigon Pho, once housed in a worn-down space in Forest Park but now operating in a larger, spiffy location on Lake Street.

Owner Huynh Tran treks down to Fulton Street Farmer’s Market early every morning for vegetables, and for 10 hours the pho broth simmers in a 3-ft-wide pot. Tran regularly strains it to purify it.

“The meat and meat bones give it the flavor. We don’t rely on MSG,” says his daughter, Tiffany.

The Tran family came to America 15

years ago from Vietnam, where they ran a restaurant. The food at Saigon Pho is “like at any wok in Ho Chi Minh,” says Tiffany. But what does it really matter how authentic the food is? Taste is what counts, and the pho here bursts with freshness and flavor. And watch out for a little kick to it, too.

INDIAN Indian Harvest, Naperville

Also try the Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese crepe stuffed with vegetables. “Our customers have tried it at other places, and they say there’s too much oil and it’s too soft,” says Tiffany. She adds, “My parents were nervous about opening a restaurant in the United States. But Americans are

CZECH Riverside Restaurant, Riverside Harlem and Ogden avenues in the Berwyn to Brookfield corridor were once lined with solid Bohemian restaurants, though many closed as Latinos moved in and tacquerias opened their doors.

But Riverside Restaurant has endured since 1982. It serves huge portions of classic Czech food at very reasonable prices. Absolutely do not come here if you are dieting.

Meals are a tour de force from start to finish — from the rye bread and chicken noodle soup, to the dumplings with the main course, and the sugar-bomb kolackes for dessert. You are an absolute fool if you don’t try the pork tenderloin.

Let’s be honest, decent pork tenderloin can be had at any corner bar with a kitchen.

The one here will make you wonder why people salivate over steaks and pork chops and consider them the be-all and end-all.

Bohemian Crystal, Westmont A fixture since 1981, this large restaurant that seats 135 in its dining room (there also is a large banquet hall) is Czech cooking at its finest. There are no surprises here. You get heaping plates of duck, breaded pork or lamb accompanied by piles of potato pancakes, sweet and sour cabbage or dumplings. At the end of the dinner a complimentary kolacky is served.

Don’t be surprised to hear diners speaking Czech. Also, appreciate the décor — the hand-painted china and crystal goblets are imported from Czechoslovakia. So a trip to Prague may be out of your budget, but dinner here is an authentic alternative.

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GERMAN Bavarian Lodge, Lisle This popular restaurant is anything but a hidden gem. You may have to wait in line, but it’s worth it. The hearty German food is stick-to-the-ribs “sehr gut” (very good). The Lodge offers the essentials of a German diet. It’s all here — the wiener schnitzel, the bratwurst, the sauerkraut, the potato pancakes, even a pretzel bread basket. Especially recommended is the Alpine Schnitzel, lightly breaded and graced with a layer of Swiss cheese and mushroom sauce. As you may know, Germans also know a thing or two about good beer. The Lodge has more than 30 draft beers and 130 bottled beers. Each one is better than the last.

Schnitzel Platz, Glendale Heights “Gemuchlichkeit” is a German expression for good times or good feelings that bubble up. You’ll experience that sensation as you dine on the authentic, delicious German dishes served by wait staff in lederhosen or dirndls and enjoy the richly flavored German beer, the live music and the Old World décor of German clocks and steins. The extensive menu presents a challenge for first-timers, but you won’t be sorry for playing it safe and opting for a schnitzel, the potato pancakes and the sauerkraut. Wunderbar!

LITHUANIAN Old Vilnius Café, Darien Skip the drive to the southwest side of the city and instead delight in the outstanding Lithuanian food here. Nearly every ethnic cuisine has its own comfort food, hearty entrées that seem to satisfy our deepest cravings.

Old Vilnius fits the bill for Lithuanian cuisine. Absolutely don’t leave without trying the fried bread with warm cheese and garlic sauce, the Kugelis (a thick potato pancake) and the Zeppelin, a dumpling stuffed with meat. Adjoining the restaurant is a store selling Lithuanian food, magazines and sundry items.

POLISH U Gazdy, KOREAN Hanbun, Westmont Wood Dale Nearly a third of Wood Dale’s 14,000 residents and the restaurant’s rustic interior as well are Polish, and this log cabin-style as its Polish food with a home-style twist restaurant draws Poles from far and wide, help make it a diamond in the not-soas well as plenty of folks from other ethnic rough suburbs. backgrounds who appreciate ethnic food The bilingual wait staff is unfailingly that rises above the usual or expected. helpful in pointing newcomers to the “There’s more to Polish food than just right entrée. Enjoy pork? Opt for the pierogis or sausage or pancakes,” says Betty highlander-style pork shank, baked in Pierscionowski, a native of southern beer and accompanied by hoof-shaped Poland who has owned the restaurant dumplings. Care for fish (and don’t mind with her husband since 2007. a complete fish)? Try the lip-smacking U Gazdy is a “highlander” restaurant.

Galician-style rainbow trout, sautéed and Highlanders are country people in Poland, stuffed with almonds, herbs and garlic butter. This is not your stereotypical Polish food. Of course, the restaurant at the same time is also Polish as Polish can be — and that’s a very good thing. U Gazdy offers four types of borscht, tripe stew, complimentary grain bread with lard, potato-cheese pierogis served with bacon and sour cream, and a selection of Polish beers.

POLISH U Gazdy, Wood Dale

GREEK Papaspiros, Oak Park A gyro is a gyro, and seemingly any restaurant should be able to offer

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and gooey, the entrées such as the chicken kabob plate are outstanding, and the Greek-style tableside service is beyond compare. The Greeks more or less set the standard for what makes a good restaurant, and Greek Islands is full of flair, fun and fabulous food.

JAPANESE Sushi Nest, Elmhurst

a top-notch one. Likewise with moussaka, Greek chicken and Greek salad. But, in reality, the best Greek food is found at Greek restaurants. It’s why crowds flock to Greektown on Halsted Street. It’s why Papaspiros has packed them in for nearly 20 years.

First-timers often opt for the wildly flavorful combination platter. That’s a wise choice. On a second visit — the food is so good you’ll most likely return — you can recall your favorite and decide on the gyros plate, the spanakopita (dough stuffed with spinach and feta cheese), moussaka (basically eggplant and meat), dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves) and pastichio (large macaroni with meat).

Operating in a larger space across the street until a few years ago, Papaspiros is Greek to its core.

The fish, wines and olive oils come from Greece. Greek waiters ceremoniously deliver the flaming saganaki and bellow “Oopa!” The periodic live music and décor are reminiscent of the old country.

Greek humor also is freely served up by ever-present, ever-smiling co-owner Spiro Papageorge, who eats here every day. “See

that picture?” asks Papageorge, pointing to the massive Acropolis. “I told an 11-year-old girl once that was my house (she believed him). But I told her I didn’t have enough money to finish the roof.”

Papageorge, looking younger than his 67 years, says the food may be traditional but it keeps its devotees young. “Greek food is very healthy. Lots of extra virgin

CHINESE Golden Wok, Glen Ellyn & La Grange Park

olive oil, oregano and dandelion greens,” he asserts with a wink and a smile.

Greek Islands, Lombard This bustling place is such an institution that we were tempted to leave it off the list. But the saganaki is warm

JAPANESE Sen Sushi Bar, Oak Park Connoisseurs of Japanese food, especially those who have been to Tokyo, Osaka or elsewhere in Japan, are often disappointed by U.S. versions of sushi and other entrees popular in Japan. Mediocrity here spells doom. Well, Sen Sushi Bar has earned the praise and patronage of lovers of Japanese food since it opened in 2009.

The small restaurant delivers seasidelike fresh fish, prepared with rare expertise for the suburbs. The sashimi and makimono are delicious. Exceptional, too, are the Ghost Ship Maki and the Sen Spicy Maki Set, which comes with Spicy Salmon Maki, Spicy Tuna Maki and a mysterious but very tasty “Fire Ocean” Maki.

As an appetizer, go for the tuna salad or the remarkable kabocha soup, which includes crab and squash. If you drink and are budget-minded, the Japanese cocktails and beers nicely complement the entrées.

Sushi House, Multiple Locations When Bob and Diana Johnson opened the first Sushi House restaurant in Westmont back in 1995, there were only two other small sushi restaurants in all of the western suburbs. “We thought at that time there was an opportunity to open a top quality sushi restaurant with Americanized service and décor, while also offering some traditional cooked dishes,” recalls Johnson. “Most of our patrons back then were well educated, well traveled people that had been to Japan and other Asian countries.”

In subsequent years, the western suburbs gradually became more culturally diverse, and Sushi House expanded to meet the

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Bhandari singles out these selections for first-time patrons: for an appetizer, Chicken Mo Mo, minced chicken mixed with Nepalese spices stuffed in a thin flour wrap, steamed and served with Nepali chutney; or Khashi ko Bhutuwa, boneless goat meat cubes stir fried with Nepalese spices and herbs and garnished with cilantro. For the main course, try Chicken Tikka Masala (of course); the Kadai Special, chicken, lamb or shrimp with onions, tomatoes, bell peppers and a secret sauce; or a Danshak Special, meat or fish cooked with lentils and masala sauce.

rising demand for sushi and other Japanese and Asian fare. Now with five area locations — in Downers Grove, Naperville, Oak Park, Westmont and Wheaton — the west suburban sushi pioneer continues to be a go-to spot for its popular Spicy Tuna and Chicago Fire rolls and traditional Bento Boxes.

Sushi Nest, Elmhurst This contemporary, elegant, intimate restaurant is a great pick for sushi novices.

The menu describes each item in detail.

The servers are also helpful. The menu is broad enough that you can come several times and never even sniff sushi. But give it a try; it’s fresh and flavorful.

SPANISH Emilio’s Tapas, Hillside Even the best restaurants seem to lose their edge after a while. Not so for this stalwart, opened by Emilio Gervilla in 1988. Born in Spain and known as Chicago’s “Tapas King,” Gervilla made his mark when he opened the iconic Café Ba-Ba-Reeba in the city. Tapas are Spanish small dishes, and Emilio’s has so many spot-on items that it’s best to come with a large group and raid one another’s plates.

Be sure to try the garlic potato salad (you’ll forever be disappointed with other potato salad), bacon-wrapped dates (you’ll forever be disappointed with other dates), the calamari (you’ll forever … well, you get the idea), the goat cheese and paella.

The sangria is pleasurable and potent.

INDIAN Khyber Pass, Oak Park Chunks of chicken enveloped in creamy spiced tomato sauce, chicken tikka masala is the Indian equivalent of spaghetti and meatballs for Italians.

You’d be hard-pressed to find an Indian restaurant without it. The chicken tikka masala here is phenomenal, and for that reason alone deserves a visit. The boneless chicken is tender and flavorful, and the sauce is addictive. Also especially good are the butter chicken and lamb curry.

INDIAN Khyber Pass, Oak Park

Opened in 1995 and once a cult favorite, Khyber Pass is now a beloved establishment with many longtime patrons. The irony of its popularity is that you wouldn’t be wrong to say its chicken tikka masala and other dishes are actually Pathan or Afghan food. The nomadic Pathans roamed about the Khyber Pass, the passage to Afghanistan. Imitating the methods of his ancestors, owner and native Pakistani Malik Jawid specializes in cooking in pots with steam.

Taste of Himalayas, St. Charles The staff often hears these words of praise from astounded diners: “I was in India, and your food tastes better.” For nearly 10 years, Taste of Himalayas has satisfied the palates both of newcomers and aficionados of Indian food. In lesser hands, the spices, creams and salts of Indian cuisine can overwhelm the taste buds or produce a mishmash of taste.

Not so here. The flavors are distinct yet still blend together to create delicious, memorable meals.

As with most Indian restaurants, the menu offerings are extensive — 86 items. Owner Jack

Indian Harvest, Naperville It’s no surprise, given the number of area residents from India, that Naperville has one of the best Indian restaurants.

Indian Harvest gets high marks for its soft, warm naan, mildly spiced goat curry, savory chicken tikka and chicken korma.

To clear out your sinuses for the winter, order the Achari Gosht, a lamb dish that packs a wallop.

SOUL FOOD Priscilla’s, Hillside If Don Cornelius had ever dined at Priscilla’s, he might have shouted, “Soulllllllll … food.” Yes, the Southern comfort food here is as it should be — hearty, packed with flavor, fresh and filling. The chicken is crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. The short ribs are tender, and the deep fried catfish will make you wonder if you’ve been

SOUL FOOD Priscilla’s, Hillside

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transported to a sleepy Mississippi hamlet where time stands still and all you need for a great day is a fishing pole.

But it’s the side dishes that give Priscilla’s its edge. The cafeteria-style restaurant serves up buttery candied yams, silky okra and to-die-for mac and cheese. The restaurant gets bonus points for its friendly ambiance — cooks and busboys often chat a bit to make you feel at home.

MEXICAN Bien Trucha, Geneva

SERBIAN Skadarliya, Brookfield This is such an authentic Serbian restaurant that Serbs have been known to complain that the menu is only in English. But since it opened not long ago, Skadarliya has attracted droves of Serbian diners as well as non-Serbs who like traditional Balkan cuisine. The wait staff is happy to make a recommendation, but try the Montenegro Schnitzel, a pork filet filled with cheese and wrapped in bacon. Or give the Serbian-style hamburger a whirl. Across the board, the food has that made-in-mom’s-kitchen quality.

CHINESE Gen Hoe, Geneva Talk to a devotee of this long-standing restaurant and be prepared for a volley of enthusiasm: “never had a bad meal,” “best Chinese restaurant in the Chicago area,” “world’s best Chinese restaurant.” Well, we won’t go that far. But Gen Hoe perennially tops the list of best Asian restaurants in this magazine’s annual poll. On every visit you can expect friendly service, ridiculous portions and Chinese food as most people like it — a bit of spice and a ton of flavor.

The egg rolls are stupendous in taste and the size of a tree branch. The entrées are uniformly exceptional but try the sweet and sour chicken, the lemon chicken, the Mongolian beef or the peppercorn steak.

The cocktails pack a punch; the Mai Tai is universally loved. After the meal, though you won’t be hungry unless you haven’t

eaten for a year, savor the almond cookie.

Golden Wok, Glen Ellyn & La Grange Park These mainstays personify neighborhood favorites whose quality and quantity of food far exceed reasonable expectations. Opened in the early 1980s, the La Grange Park location features kitschy but appealing paper lanterns, beaded curtains and Chinese Zodiac menus and epic egg rolls, delectable pot stickers and delicious entrées, such as kung pao chicken and sesame chicken.

MEXICAN A Toda Madre, Glen Ellyn It’s not hard to find a good taco.

But the tacos here — and the other contemporary food — are transcendent.

Opt for the pork taco lusciously flavored with chihuahua, pineapple, pico de gallo and salsa morita, the crispy beer-battered tilapia with red cabbage, onion, tomatillo, lime and charred serrano aioli or the sautéed octopus taco with pimiento morita-mojo, crispy beets and a smash of avocado. You get the idea. This is not Taco Bell. It’s taco heaven. This Mexican grill is a bucket-list worthy eatery that rightfully belongs on the North Side or in the West Loop or Mexico City.

The small dishes are creative and ultra-tasty. Try the grilled corn slathered with epazote butter and lemon aioli, the

white rice with poblano cubes, sour cream and chihuahua cheese and the “drunken beans” mixed with pork belly, pico de gallo and Mexican beer. The décor is similarly stylish with a rustic look, high tin ceilings and communal tables.

Some restaurants are merely trendy and evoke a “too-cool-for-school” vibe.

If the food was anything less than great, A Toda Madre would be easy to parody and dislike. But the sister restaurant of Bien Trucha in Geneva (see below), is the real deal, characterized by startling freshness, bold flavors and authentic fare.

Bien Trucha, Geneva Opened eight years ago, this upscale Mexican restaurant has a similar menu to Toda Madre and shares the same owners.

Co-owner Rodrigo Cano, born in Mexico City to a restaurant-owning family, moved to the States to study audio engineering.

Instead, he has engineered two restaurants whose tacos — inspired by the marvelous street food in Mexico City — are heralded in list after list as among the best in the Chicago area.

Besides the top-notch food, Bien Trucha delivers a cozy, homelike atmosphere with an open kitchen. Or maybe everyone just says they feel at home because the margaritas and other killer cocktails go down so easily and perfectly complement the Mexican fare.

MIDDLE EASTERN Grape Leaves, Oak Park This tiny neighborhood spot makes the average hole-in-the-wall look as expansive as the Taj Mahal. Maybe a dozen — slender — people can fit. And brushing past your shoulders will be a steady stream of take-home customers. The food belies the surroundings. The chicken shawarma, the falafel and the hummus all are exceptional — and moderately priced.

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Photo by Jennifer Schaffer Photography, courtesy of Naper Settlement

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The Century Memorial Chapel at Naper Settlement in Naperville offers a cozy and historic ambiance.

Wedding Planning

A guide to some of the top venues and service providers in the western suburbs

Brides-to-be often have a vision of what their perfect wedding day will look like and making that all come together can be the equivalent of a having a part time job.

Fortunately, there is an abundance of expert help in the western suburbs for planning and orchestrating the perfect wedding. A variety of distinctive venues and other service providers are available to make each wedding as unique and special as the bride and groom.

If you are planning a wedding in the Naperville area, a good first stop is VisitNaperville.com (866 796-2737), where you will find information on a wide range of hotels and restaurants offering wedding packages. The site also offers complimentary wedding planning services to help you on your big day! Similarly, if you are interested in the Burr Ridge/Hinsdale area, It’s Better in Burr Ridge (burrridgehotels.com) is ready to help you find an ideal venue as well.

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Riverside Receptions in Geneva Superior service and a riverfront atmosphere make this an excellent choice for weddings. Nestled along the Fox River, Riverside Receptions offers a beautiful setting, wonderful cuisine and an experienced staff. The first floor, cradled by the river, provides a warm and cozy atmosphere with its pub-style bar, natural limestone walls and charming fireplaces.

The upper level enchants, with spacious elegance and panoramic views. The candlelit room is matched only in beauty by the star-filled skies. riversidereceptions.com 630 262-8371

The Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva Whether hosting an indoor or outdoor wedding ceremony, The Herrington Inn & Spa blends the elegance and charm of a luxury European inn with award-winning, professional service and exquisite cuisine. Guests will experience the Herrington’s 23-year tradition of excellence, with exquisite decor, first-class service, gourmet cuisine and a beautiful setting on the waterfront.

The Herrington’s event space accommodates 170 guests for a plated dinner or 225 guests for a cocktail reception. Special services include an overnight stay in an upgraded room, a four-hour bar package, a champagne toast for all guests, house wine during dinner, and three courses followed by wedding cake. The dedicated staff is always available to deliver the wedding of your dreams! herringtoninn.com 630 208-7433

Hilton Lisle/Naperville Allgauer’s Restaurant Bring as many as 500 loved ones together for a chic celebration. Weddings have been our specialty for more than 35 years. Our wedding specialists work with you on every detail to ensure your wedding exceeds all your expectations.

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opportunity to be your wedding venue.

Choose from three chic ballrooms, including the Regency Ballroom with over 5,200 square feet of versatile space. Crystal chandeliers and double entrance doors add elegant touches to our well-designed spaces. The services we provide to wedding parties are exceptional. To ensure a perfect event, enjoy the assistance of a personal Maitre D’ who will oversee those special details during your big day.

We invite you to collaborate with Allgauer’s executive chef to customize any menu to meet preferences or dietary needs.

Expect a wide variety of options made with high-quality, fresh ingredients. You may also choose from a vast assortment of wedding cakes or create your own design. lislenaperville.hilton.com 630 245-7627

Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse Westin Hotel, Lombard Harry Caray’s combines one of the largest and most elegant event venues

Photo by Louie Abellera Weddings, courtesy of Heritage Prairie Farm

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Heritage Prairie Farm in Elburn is a popular venue for outdoor weddings.

with legendary, award-winning cuisine and impeccable service. Our team of experienced wedding planners will assist you with every aspect of your wedding — from menu selection to linens, to flowers and beyond. We can accommodate

350 guests for plated events or the space can be divided for smaller gatherings.

Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto an expansive terrace overlooking a beautiful pond and fountain.

We can also assist you in connecting with a variety of trusted vendors for audio visual equipment, flowers, linens, entertainment and any other needs you may have. We are also pleased to help you book major sports celebrities to participate in your event. harrycarays.com 630 953-3400

Elements at Water Street in Hotel Indigo, Naperville Conveniently located along the popular Riverwalk in downtown Naperville, Elements at Water Street offers custom menu planning, wedding coordination, premium full-service bar and personalized tastings. This stunning ballroom boasts an organic, contemporary space with a signature wood ribbon ceiling and offers

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a separate pre-reception area for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The ballroom comfortably seats 250 guests. Local art, rustic wood tones and antique touches immerse guests in the history of the Naperville Riverwalk neighborhood — a perfect backdrop for bridal photos.

Our premier wedding package delivers preferred Hotel Indigo room rates for your guests, plus package pricing for the Century Memorial Chapel at Naper Settlement. elementsnaperville.com 630 717-2800

wedding packages. Whatever you desire, our team will move mountains to make it happen.

Hotel Arista can deliver experienced wedding planners and designers, personalized wedding packages, white glove service, plus a dedicated personal server for the bride and groom. We also give you a complimentary suite for the wedding night, complete with chilled champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. hotelarista.com 630 579-4100

Hotel Arista in Naperville

Naper Settlement in Naperville

The Arista bride likes to write her own wedding story. Our professional planners will help you create your dream wedding, with all of the personal touches you demand. We offer a number of unique spaces and a Grand Ballroom that accommodates up to 350 guests, full-service catering, and customized

In the heart of downtown Naperville, this distinctive location will lend a historic ambiance to your special day. The splendid grounds present opportunities for a stunning wedding album, and your guests will have the opportunity to relax in the beautiful outdoors.

Built in 1864, the charm of the

Century Memorial Chapel shines through in its original stained-glass windows.

The curved buttresses, dark woods and globe lighting highlight the Gothic Revival style of architecture. This always popular wedding venue has seating for up to 175 guests. Our rental attendant is ready to help you. You will have the chapel for a full two hours, plus an hour for rehearsal. We offer a spacious carpeted bride’s dressing room with full-length mirror and sofa. Parking is free, and the facility is fully accessible, with a wheelchair lift to lower level.

Located near the I-88 and I-355 tollways, Naper Settlement is within easy reach of Aurora, Bolingbrook, Downers Grove, Lisle, Warrenville and Wheaton. napersettlement.org 630 420-6010

Cantigny, Wheaton This expansive estate encompasses acres of beautiful gardens, colorful botanicals and tranquil water features,

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Photo courtesy of The Herrington

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Enjoy entrancing views at an outdoor ceremony or reception at the Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva.

creating an idyllic setting for your special day. Four lavish gardens provide an exclusive sanctuary for you and your guests. Cantigny offers two distinctive reception venues: Le Jardin at Cantigny Park and the Red Oak Room at Cantigny Golf. Whether it’s creating the perfect menu or finding just the right floral arrangements, Cantigny is here to help you create a perfectly memorable wedding day.

We invite you to visit Cantigny’s beautiful settings. Our extraordinary staff will make certain your wedding and reception run as smooth as silk. cantigny.org 630 260-8145

St. Andrews Golf & Country Club, West Chicago We pride ourselves on the service we provide our guests and will do everything possible to make your wedding day even more memorable. The St. Andrews Room, with its delightful covered patio, which is perfect for sun and shade, seats 275 guests and offers a picturesque view of the beautiful St. Andrews course and adjacent gardens. The Trophy Room allows 100 guests and offers enchanting views of our wooded acres. The rooms can be combined to create a larger space.

The 19th Hole room, with two walls of windows, offers seating for up to 45, and features an original brick fireplace and rich wood paneled walls. It is perfect for showers, or rehearsal dinners.

For summer weddings, we offer an exquisite lakeside setting, shaded by mature trees.

St. Andrews truly provides a first-class facility and top-notch service with 90 years of experience within the industry. Our executive chef will be pleased to design a personalized menu to accommodate any specific needs on your big day. standrewsgc.com 630 231 3100 ext. 115

River Bend Golf Club and Wheatstack Restaurant in Lisle With lush landscaping and vast greenery, the breathtaking views of River Bend Golf Club create an ideal and serene atmosphere for your wedding and/or reception. An opulent, white, high-peak tent is nestled amongst the scenic greens for a peaceful, private, outdoor setting in nature with space for 225 guests.

In addition, the clubhouse provides inviting indoor accommodations for 150 guests and a sizable, raised deck overlooking the grounds. Remodeled in 2011, Wheatstack features a slate fireplace that acts as a centerpiece between the welcoming bar and intimate dining room, which are bathed in generous amounts of natural light from broad windows that accent the neutral tones of the clubhouse décor.

Whether celebrating upcoming nuptials or a lifetime of wedded bliss, a variety of accommodations are available to suit you and your guests. riverbendgolfclub.org 630 968-1920

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Photo courtesy of The Herrington

Arrowhead Golf Club, Wheaton A highly sought-after wedding venue, the Arrowhead Golf Club offers a charming stone and brick clubhouse set on beautifully landscaped grounds with a manicured golf course, a lake, flowing fountains and lush fairways. The picturesque site offers spaces for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The magnificent ballroom accommodates up to 300 guests or can be divided into three smaller areas for more intimate receptions. The romantic stone veranda overlooks the fairways and is perfect for cocktail hour. After the main reception meal, guests can dance the night away on the large wooden dance floor.

Personalized service includes tastings and menu planning, plus a private suite for the bride and groom. arrowheadgolfclub.org 630 653-5800

Chef By Request When it comes to your wedding day, there is absolutely no margin for error.

Allow Chef By Request to create an atmosphere of unforgettable elegance.

Exquisite cuisine, first-class presentation and impeccable service are the essential ingredients we combine to exceed your highest expectations. Chef By Request has orchestrated countless upscale events in myriad off-premise locations, from Frank Lloyd Wright churches to the chapel and grounds of Naper Settlement. chefbyrequest.com 630 493-4300

Phillip’s Flowers & Gifts With more than 90 years experience and a team of event designers, Phillip’s Flowers makes wedding dreams come true all over Chicagoland. Our company buys its fresh flowers direct from around the world for the best in quality and value.

Our experts will work with you to create breathtaking bouquets and reception decor suited to your style and budget.

From simple to elegant, traditional to high style, Phillip’s does it all. We are happy to schedule a consultation near you. phillipsflowers.com 630 719-5200 WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | FEBRUARY 2017 43

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Elegant yet inviting upholstered headboards go beyond chic.

Comfort & Style

Photo courtesy of The Dump

Today’s furniture trends include customization, livability and fresh new hues

F ll itche of M rtesy s s cou b William to o h o P +B Gold

urnishing your home is an investment, not only in creating a visually appealing environment but also in providing you with surroundings that complement and enhance your lifestyle. The latest trends seen in showrooms throughout the western suburbs place an emphasis on color, personalization and, most of all, comfort.

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of The Dump

,

Photo courtesy of Toms-Price Home Furnishings

people are looking for,” says Maureen Smithe, buyer for Walter E. Smithe, which has 11 Chicagoland locations.

“Even if they want something sleek and minimal, they still want it to be comfortable.”

Photo courtesy of Walter E. Smithe

Style and Scale Therese Lewis, interior designer for Scott Shuptrine Interiors in Downers Grove, says suburban homeowners are looking for livable, functional furniture, with transitional styles carrying the day.

“Its straight lines allow them to add accessories, accent furniture and artwork to make it a little more contemporary or traditional to fit their personality,” she explains.

Surprisingly, one market segment that she’s seen skewing toward slightly more traditional pieces is the millennial crowd, especially when it comes to the dining room. “I have seen a resurgence in younger people looking for traditionalism, and I think it’s because they haven’t seen it before,” she says.

While the clean, transitional look is still in favor, it’s common to combine pieces of varied eras for a more layered look. “People like mixing things from different time periods, such as an antique table with a streamlined sofa or a baroque mirror with contemporary art,” says Renee Guire, design project manager for Ethan Allen in Naperville.

While scale is somewhat dictated by the size of a room, more moderately scaled pieces are moving to the forefront rather than the oversized sectionals of the past.

“People are going back to comfort on a smaller scale that is visually interesting,” says Tim Pawelski, an interior designer at Toms-Price in Wheaton.

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, which has locations in Oak Brook and downtown Chicago, is known for a classic modern style, and Bob Williams, co-founder and president of design, has noticed an increase in combining different sizes and scales on pieces. For example, the company has a new sofa that offers a very thin arm paired with a cushion that’s three inches thicker than usual. “Because of the thin arm, you get maximum seating width, and it’s a nice depth for relaxing and watching TV or having a conversation,” he says.

No matter the style, how furniture pieces feel is paramount. “Comfort is what

Packed with Function Dual-purpose furniture is also in favor, such as an upholstered ottoman that can serve as a cocktail table and also provide storage or additional seating. A console table with pull-out seating Crisp, clean and contemporary seating is still in demand. underneath is another flexible option, as is a swivel chair. cookie-cutter stuff, and it’s very easy Catherine Connor, co-owner of 610 to personalize furniture,” says Smithe.

Home in Geneva, says her customers Customization of everything from rugs enjoy swivel chairs and might use a to sofas can give you a truly unique look. foursome to create a cocktail area in a For example, says Lewis, you can have a living room or add a single one to a piece of carpet cut to any size and bound great room arrangement. with leather, suede or canvas to create “I think it’s a throwback to the 1950s a one-of-a-kind area rug. Or, you can and 1960s, and they are fun,” explains customize your upholstered piece by Connor. “It’s nice to be able to look at selecting from arm and leg options, the TV or fireplace and turn around and fabrics, trims and more. face someone working in the kitchen.”

“Some of our vendors offer up to 600 fabrics, 60 finishes and 25 different types Making it Personal of nailhead trim,” says Lewis.

Customization and personalization Interesting accents, including global is another trend. “People don’t want WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | FEBRUARY 2017 45

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pieces, also add to a room’s individuality.

One sought-after accent piece is the bar cart, a small wheeled piece that is versatile enough to be used for serving cocktails or as an end table and comes in a variety of materials and styles. “We are having a lot of fun with bar carts right now,” says Smithe. “They are great splurge items. If you don’t have a big budget or a lot of space, you can add a fun touch with a bar cart.”

Not all homeowners can curate the eclectic look on their own, but working with a designer can help with that. As well, manufacturers and vendors are starting to offer more items and collections that mix different elements, from modern to traditional to vintage.

Furs, cowhides and velvets allow for layering of textures.

with fine texture, such as velvet or chenille as being on trend. He says the hand of the fabric is nearly as important as performance factors like being stain resistant or easy to clean. “People really like to have something that feels good,” says Williams.

Connor agrees, but says her clients especially appreciate fabrics that fit their lifestyle, particularly if it includes children and pets. “People want beautiful things, but it’s more about function and usability, so performance fabrics are really hot,” she says.

Many mention velvet, which can be both durable and luxurious, as a hot upholstery fabric, particularly for accent items, like chairs. Stephanie Mallette, divisional merchandise manager for The

Dump, a discount furniture retailer with a location in Lombard, says the fabric was well-represented during a recent buying trip. “Almost every showroom had velvet — good, better, best and luxe price points.

People are really wanting that conversation piece in their homes.”

Lewis observes a tendency toward textured fabrics that feature a nod to men’s apparel, including tweeds and other materials, while others point to faux fur and hides as popular choices for layering in texture. “People still like neutrals, but can’t do without texture — from fur pillows and rugs to cowhides and feathers — neutrals and textures go together so well,” says Connor.

While texture and subtle pattern seem to go hand in hand, with many traditional patterns being rendered in neutrals, some see a return of prints. Tropical prints and bold geometrics are among the pattern play Pawelski has noticed. He finds they are being mixed in with more traditional prints to update and add visual appeal to a space.

Another key use of fabric remains the upholstered headboard, which is still a top choice in terms of bedrooms, offering both comfort and versatility. “They are clean, modern, cozy and chic and they help create a haven,” says Connor.

Photo courtesy of Walter E. Smithe

Tactile Touch Texture is a big story when it comes to fabrics and finishes. “With cleaner, crisper looks, we don’t see as much pattern, so texture adds interest,” says Guire.

“Playing with texture is popular — layers upon layers,” says Pawelski. “It goes back to the comfort of home because it makes a space feel warm.”

Williams cites clean-looking fabrics

Photo courtesy of 610 Home

COMFORT & STYLE

This statement piece combines two hot trends — velvet and the blue-est of blues.

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Photo courtesy of The Dump

Patterned pillows and accessories add punch to neutral sectionals while the mixed metal and wood table stays on trend.

pillow can work with it,” says Smithe.

“And the green and aubergine colors that are popular in the marketplace work great with navy.”

Guire has noticed purple and dark green jewel tones gaining popularity. “Jewel tones are being used even in larger pieces, like a dark green velvet sofa,” she says.

Mallette says that the store’s typical customer still favors muted tones but are looking to add colorful accents. “People are almost craving color,” she says, noting that the most color is still seen in higherend lines.

Photo courtesy of Walter E. Smithe

Finishes on the Forefront When it comes to wood finishes, Guire says that slick manufactured finishes are being replaced by some textured looks, including cerused wood and distressing.

Matte finishes are also beginning to overtake glossy. “Both dark and lighter tones have more texture and depth, and I have been seeing more matte finishes, not that high-gloss sheen,” says Mallette.

Mixing metals is still in favor. In terms of metal, bronze, copper and gold are appearing more frequently amid the silver, stainless steel and polished nickel that have long been in favor. And whatever the metal, there are more pieces that feature a blend of several types or pairing of metal with stone or wood.

Brushed metals are coming into focus. “It’s the era of brushed metal,” says Pawelski. Williams has also noted that trend, citing a new bedroom collection that pairs cream-colored shagreen with a metal base in brushed champagne brass.

Color Cues Though gray is still at the top of the heap when it comes to neutrals, other colors are making a splash, including navy. “Navy is becoming a new neutral.

If you have a navy sofa, almost any color

Bar carts add a fun and functional touch.

Williams says that neutrals are still top sellers, including the cool grays that arrived on the scene a few years ago. White and light taupe are also popular, and darker colors, including navy and inky blues, are making an appearance. “Cool colors have become the biggest part of our business,” he says.

For Lewis, gray or “greige” tones are still very hot, and she is starting to see a lot of dark green and emerald accents, in line with the Pantone prediction of “Greenery” as the color of the year. However, Lewis says, furniture color should not be chosen to follow a trend.

“It’s like fashion,” she explains.

“If I don’t look good in skinny jeans, I’m not going to buy skinny jeans.

Get what appeals to you personally and what you are comfortable with in your home.”

Most homeowners tend to keep large, expensive pieces, such as sofas, neutral, then add color and style through accent pillows, rugs, lighting and smaller furnishings.

“We call it the little black dress concept,” says Mallette. “It’s all about a neutral sofa and accessorizing, just like adding jewelry to a little black dress. It’s a really smart way to incorporate trends.”

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AM Whether you have room1/24/17 for big 10:42 equipment or not, a

Photos by Ed Ahern

Forest Park Boasting an eclectic vibe similar to its nearby big city neighbor, this near west suburb also reflects its historic roots and a small town sense of community

W

By Lynn Petrak

alk along Madison Street and you’re bound to notice signs reading “I FP” in the windows of many businesses. Those signs, attributed to the owner of Healy’s Westside bar and grill, reflect the affection and attention that Forest Park is getting for its array of things to do and see.

If foot traffic is any indication, there’s a lot of love for this western suburb of nearly 15,000 residents, conveniently located due west of downtown Chicago, just off the Eisenhower Expressway, at the western end of the city’s Green and Blue lines of the elevated “L” trains. Standing on the corner of Harlem Avenue and Madison Street on a clear day, one can get a straight-on view of the Loop skyline.

While Forest Park is rich in history, there has been a revitalization in recent years, propelled by merchants, restaurateurs, business owners and service providers whose love and passion for what they do has made this village a destination for dining, shopping, having a fun night out and taking part in unique events.

“Many years ago, Forest Park was a town where you came to get a drink because many nearby communities were dry back in the day,” says Laurie Kokenes, executive director of the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce and Development.

“For the past several years though, our strength has been local independent businesses. You get a different kind of customer service here and you meet neighbors and friends when you’re on the street.”

6

“It’s been said,” adds Kokenes, “that Forest Park has big city access and small town charm, and it’s true.”

In addition to those who take advantage of the vibrant — and still-expanding — scene in downtown Forest Park and in other parts of town, residents and community leaders have a bond that makes the town unique, says Larry Piekarz, director of the Park District of Forest Park. “It’s a great, close-knit community.

Everyone seems to get along, and that includes residents as well as government agencies and the village schools, park and library.”

Forest Park’s successful combination of businesses and attractions is reflected in the town’s population. “Forest Park is culturally diverse,” notes Kokenes. In keeping with its diversity, a variety of programs, special events and cultural offerings meets the interests and needs of a broad range of people.

Madison Street Dining and Drinking Even as some suburbs have grappled with replacing shuttered stores and eateries and sustaining existing ones, Forest Park’s central business district along Madison Street is currently thriving.

The stretch of Madison roughly from Harlem to Circle and Des Plaines avenues is a major hub, lined with specialty shops and restaurants.

The variety of restaurants has earned Madison Street a designation of “restaurant row,” and several dining spots here have earned rave reviews. There are eateries for every taste, ranging from old school

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Forest Park’s mix of cuisines and venues.

Golden Steer Steakhouse on Roosevelt Road continues to draw accolades for its time-tested steaks, French onion soup and white tablecloth ambiance. On Circle Photos courtesy of Forest Park Chamber of Commerce and Development

y Ed Ahern

to high end, from sweets to savory, from Americana to globally inspired.

Exemplifying the eclectic vibe of Forest Park, Madison Street’s restaurants span newer, urban-like establishments as well as old-school spots that have been in town (or look like it) for decades. You’ll find stalwarts that are still packing them in, such as Louie’s Grill, Jimmy’s Place and, nearby on Harlem, Parky’s, along with buzzed-about newer places like The Heritage and local favorites like FatDuck Tavern and Grill, Gaetano’s, Piggyback Tavern, Scratch Kitchen, Francesca’s Fiore, Skrine Chops and caffe DeLuca.

Kid-friendly places also make this part of town a destination, including the Junction Diner that features a “delivery train” along the dining counter and an interactive train table.

The same holds true for seeking out snacks and sweets in downtown Forest Park. A hip coffee spot, Counter Coffee, is on the same street as a tiny but mighty chocolate shop, La Maison de Bonbon, that makes the same French creams and truffles as it did when it opened in 1921.

The Brown Cow ice cream parlor may not date back generations, but it certainly has that feel, with a counter teeming with homemade ice creams, a menu of indulgent desserts and real glass sundae cups. Pastries by Kay is one of the increasingly rare independent bakeries around and is known for its flaky twists and turnovers.

Eating and drinking is an all-day affair in Forest Park. Breakfast spots such as Madison Park Kitchen and the Original Pancake House meet morning meal needs, and there are plenty of lunch and dinner options. After dark, Forest Park’s legacy as a tavern town continues, as crowds mill in and out of popular pubs like Doc Ryan’s, Duffy’s Tavern, Shortstop, O’Sullivan’s Public House, Exit Strategy Brewing and Old School Tavern and Grill.

Beyond the Madison Street corridor, there are several other restaurants and bars in this near western suburb that exemplify

Annual events, such as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and “Casket Races “draw big crowds.

Avenue, Goldyburger’s lives up to its decades-long reputation as a go-to burger joint, with the same 1926 slogan “Never had a bad one.”

Madison Street Shopping Just as Forest Park’s restaurants have helped revitalize the community, Madison Street stores offer a similar mix of old and new, hip and classic. “We have mom and pop stores — they are not chains, and they are very distinctive,” says Kokenes. “For example, we have a history and mystery book store, a guitar store where the gentleman makes guitars and offers

lessons, and a military and police surplus store.”

To her point, the Military and Police Supply store on Madison Avenue is as much a part of the fabric of the merchant community as fashionable boutiques like Jayne, Team Blonde, Girlicious and the home décor/interior design shop Yearbook.

Likewise, places like Centuries and Sleuths bookstore, the Forest Park Emporium antique store and Grand Appliance are figurative bookends to spots like Camille et Famille, Strut, and Deedee and Edee boutiques.

Some Madison Street shops cater to those with hobbies and pastimes, like the aforementioned Dance Guitars, which provides lessons, service and repairs as well as workshops in guitar building. Music fans also can check out the vinyl at Old School Records. People of all ages can apply their painting skills at Creativita, which offers painting classes and parties.

If you prefer knitting, spin a yarn at Knit Nirvana. Cigar aficionados can browse premium cigars at Casa de Puros, which has an in-house smoking lounge. Todd and Holland Tea Merchants sources teas from all over the world, for those who really know and savor teas to those who want a sip of something different.

Shamrocks on Parade Hearts are on display in Forest Park windows, thanks to signs that support local business, but shamrocks are decidedly a part of this suburb as well. The heritage of the community is evident in the many Irish pubs and restaurants and, in March, at the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.

“This is the 21st year for our ‘St. Paddy’s Day’ parade, which is one of the largest parades in the suburbs,” says Kokenes. This year’s parade is Saturday, March 4 from 1 to 2:30 p.m., with crowds lining the route along Madison Street to watch bagpipers, bands, Irish dancers and other floats and marching groups.

Beyond the wearing of the green every March, Forest Park is known for other

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Forest Park

Population

Southwest Corner of Madison St. and Des Plaines Ave., circa 1909

2015 pop est – 14,123

g Decrease from 2000 – 9.5% g Median age – 39.5 g 19 and under – 18.5% g 20-24 – 5.7% g 25-34 – 18.4% g 35-44 – 15.1% g 45-54 – 14.4% g 55-64 – 15.1% g 65 and over – 12.8% g % Male – 45.8% g % Female – 54.2% g % White – 52.4% g % African-American – 32.9% g % Asian – 8.7% g % Hispanic – 11.7%

Education g % High school degree or higher – 21.6%

g % Bachelor’s degree or higher – 24.9%

g % Graduate or professional degree – 18.8%

Photo courtesy of Forest Park Historical Society

Statistical Snapshot

g Renter-occupied units

Income g Median household income –

– 3,590

$50,380

g Gross median rent – $941

Housing

Business/Employment

g Total households – 7,178 g % Family households – 43.3%

g Avg. household size – 1.9 g Mean price for detached houses – $264,888

g % Residents employed – 94.8%

g % Residents unemployed – 5.2%

g Avg. travel time to work – 30.4 min

g Owner-occupied units – 3,588

events, some of which are different from typical suburban fare. The annual Holiday Walk, for example, features live window displays, as merchants design windows with “models” to entertain the crowd.

While the community may be known for draft beers available on tap at its many taverns, Forest Park is hosting a Spring Wine Walk and Shop on April 22 between 1 and 5 p.m. Guests can sample wine and appetizers while shopping at more than 16 locations along Madison Street. Also popular are a German Fest in June and a Music Fest in July.

Casket Races are another signature event in Forest Park, usually held in October before Halloween. “Casket Races is one event in particular that causes some eyebrows to raise, but when they learn the ratio of dead versus living residents, people get it. Forest Park cemeteries hold many historical and interesting characters,” explains Kokenes, who clarifies that the racing vessels aren’t actual caskets. “They are basically any vehicle you push, with four wheels and handles.”

Plots and Monuments The annual Casket Races are a nod to the cemeteries that are tied to Forest Park’s

Sources: U.S. Census, City-Data.com and usa.com

history and that continue to draw people to the suburb to inter and visit departed loved ones. Those cemeteries include Forest Home Cemetery, Waldheim Jewish Cemetery, Concordia Cemetery and Woodlawn Cemetery.

These grounds contain gravesites and monuments for several notable figures, including victims of the Eastland boat disaster on the Chicago River and those who perished in the Haymarket riots. The graves of circus employees who died in a 1918 train accident near Hammond, Indiana, are located within a “Showman’s Rest” section of Woodlawn Cemetery. For many years, it was said that the cemetery included graves of elephants who died in that wreck. Actress Elizabeth Taylor used to visit the Forest Park grave of her late husband, Mike Todd, buried in Waldheim Jewish Cemetery.

Special cemetery tours run throughout the year, including those led by members of the Historical Society of Forest Park.

In October, an annual “Tales of the Tombstones” walk is sponsored by the nearby Historical Society of Oak Park River Forest. The Forest Park Historical Society museum is located at the First United Church of Christ, and the

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Forest Park

Photo courtesy of Forest Park Park District

Resources

Forest Park Public Library

co-ed pre-kindergarten through 8th grades.

- Total holdings – 137,616 - Items checked out per year – 148,750 - Visitors per year – 184,402

Forest Park Little League www.forestparklittleleague. org. Little league team offered to children ages four to 16.

Attractions

Museums

The Altenheim 7824 W Madison St., 708 366-2206.

American-German Old People’s Home featuring a historic cemetery and original Victorian architecture.

Historical Society of Forest Park 708 232-3747. Group dedicated to cataloging and preserving historical data about the village of Forest Park.

Circle Bowling Lanes 7244 Circle Ave., 708 366-2810.

Old-school neighborhood bowling alley with pool tables, an on-site bar and more.

16-inch Softball Hall of Fame 7501 W Harrison St., 708 366-7500. Museum paying homage to the Forest Park No-Gloves Nationals, which was one of softball’s premier tournaments.

Forest Park Youth Soccer Association www.fpysa.org.

Association offering Spring and Fall leagues comprised of eight weeks of games for

Recreation

Forest Park Dog Park SE corner of Circle & Lehmer, 708 366-2323. One of the first

organization sponsors a variety of programs and special events, including the Des Plaines River Anthology and the popular Prohibition Pub Crawl.

“Forest Park has a rich history that tends not to be recognized,” says Dr. Gerald Lordan, longtime member of the Forest Park Historical Society, a history instructor at Fenwick High School in Oak Park and a Forest Park Kiwanian and Rotarian. According to Lordan, Forest Park was once an important residential and ceremonial area for the Potawatomi Tribe of Native Americans and its location along the Des Plaines River made the area an ideal spot for the fur trade. “We were an active railroad town, and a good number of railroad workers joined the Union Army in the Civil War,” he notes.

Waterways, Pathways and Parks To Lordan’s point, the Des Plaines

dog parks in the western suburbs.

Forest Park Aquatic Center 7501 Harrison St., 708 366-7500. Aquatic center featuring four slides, a sand play area and a sprayground.

The Park 7501 Harrison St., 708 366-7500. Park featuring three softball fields, a synthetic-turf multi-use field, a playground, tennis courts, bocce ball pits and more.

Events

Holiday Walk & Festival of Windows Downtown Forest Park, www.forestpark.net.

Enjoy a tree lighting ceremony, decorated windows and more at this annual event in December.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Downtown Forest Park, www.forestparkchamber ofcommerce.org. Annual event featuring bagpipers, marching bands, Irish dancers and more.

Wine Walk & Shop Madison St., www.forestparkchamberofcommerce.org.

Annual wine walks in Spring and Fall featuring different locations with wine and small bites.

River that winds through parts of Forest Park has made this burg an appealing location for centuries. In 2017, Forest Park’s natural elements remain attractions for residents and visitors. For instance, the Illinois Prairie Path that cuts through the western suburbs begins in Forest Park at the Des Plaines River. Forest Park is also the site of the Miller Meadow, overseen by the Cook County Forest Preserve.

The Park District of Forest Park keeps up other green spaces in town, including “The Park” on Harrison Street, just south of the Eisenhower Expressway. “Our major park is called The Park. They never renamed it — people just say, ‘Let’s meet at The Park’,” says Piekarz, adding, “In summertime, it’s the place to be.” The Park includes three softball fields, a synthetic turf field, playground, tennis courts, bocce ball pits, sand volleyball courts, skate park and outdoor aquatic center.

Programs and special events for all ages are held throughout the year in the Park District’s administrative building, which was built during the Depression by the Works Progress Administration. With an eye to the future, the Park District of Forest Park has submitted plans to the village for a center on the site of a nearby property it has acquired. “We are trying to build a gym there, a possible outdoor ice rink and a music amphitheater,” says Piekarz, who has worked for the Park District for 28 years.

16-inch Softball Hall of Fame The gloves are off! The Park in Forest Park is home to another icon tied to the history of the village — the 16-inch Softball Hall of Fame. “Softball started in Chicago in 1876, and it all began with a wrappedup boxing glove and a broomstick,” explains Ron Kubicki, president of the 16-inch Softball Hall of Fame.

Sixteen-inch softball became an institution as much as a recreational sport in Chicago because of its distinct barehanded fielding and larger ball. “It’s part of our heritage,” says Kubicki, adding that the museum was placed in Forest Park because of the town’s affinity for the game.

The Hall of Fame Museum is open year-round and hosts a variety of tours for school and athletic groups. A highlight of the year is the week of the “No-Gloves National” tournament held on Forest Park’s softball fields each summer. “We’re open that whole week and get a larger number of people going through the halls.

People are so astounded once they get inside the museum,” says Kubicki.

Other Highlights of Forest Park: • Lending a legacy of sweetness to town is Ferrara Candy Company, maker of favorite confections like Lemonheads, Atomic Fireballs, Red Hots and Jujyfruits, among others, since 1908.

• Mohr Oil, a family owned fuel distributor, is another fixture. The Mohr family can trace its history to the first mayor of Forest Park, Howard Mohr, who was also the last mayor under the town’s previous name, Harlem.

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En Fuego

S

Not to be missed is En Fuego’s selection of

lip across the border and discover

Start off with En Fuego’s complimentary

a tiny patch of Mexico in the heart

tomatillo dip with homemade tortilla chips, then

specialty drinks, featuring 50 varieties of tequila.

of Oakbrook Terrace. Located

try the signature guacamole del dia or a bright

The bar, Los Cabellos Cantina, is a big hit at

at 17W648 22nd St., En Fuego

ceviche, marinated in lime for maximum zest.

Happy Hour each Friday, with Spanish music

Mexican Grille (630 613-8899) offers

A huge selection of tacos explodes with

and a fun-loving ambiance.

En Fuego’s crisp modern flavors are

a garden-fresh spin on classic Mexican plates.

flavor, showcasing Alaniz’s skill in pairing meats

Everything is made fresh, with Chef Guillermo

and vegetables with his distinctive handcrafted

complemented by the authentic Mexican décor.

Alaniz starting each day by prepping fire-roasted

sauces. Especially popular is the Grilled Skirt

Cozy and inviting yet clean and contemporary,

tomatoes, spicy habaneros, guacamole, and a

Steak Fajitas, featuring prime cuts of steak,

the open dining room features tables, chairs

host of tasty market-fresh vegetables. Seasonal

marinated and charcoal-grilled, then served

and colorful wall art imported from Mexican

produce is at the heart of the menu, deliciously

on a bed of peppers and onions, and topped

villages — including light fixtures created from

inspired by Mexican village fare.

with frijoles refritos or spicy arroz.

hand-crafted fishing baskets.

- Anne Knudsen

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1/23/17 5:21 PM

Photos courtesy of The Heritage

GOOD FOOD

By T.R. Witom

The Heritage Upscale seasonal American fare in Forest Park

T

he Heritage, an upscale restaurant in downtown Forest Park, showed early promise when it opened for business in late September.

Fast forward five months, and it looks like the classy establishment has managed to even exceed those initial expectations.

Credit its well-traveled owner Mischa DeHart and her talented team that includes seasoned chef-partners Sieger Bayer and Michael Spiewak and personable general manager-partner Jeff Wilson.

The Heritage offers diners a small but approachable menu of small and large plates. Shareable dishes are creatively executed in keeping with the goal of focusing on quality and flavor.

A recent dinner started with a tasty Avocado and Citrus Salad paired with baby kale, pistachios and a yogurt dressing. The mix of flavors worked well together.

Among other small-plate options were Chicken Liver Mousse with pepper jelly, sweet onions, radish and sourdough; Roasted Oysters with smoked paprika butter, almond gremolata and pickled mustard seeds; and Crispy Pork Belly with braised red cabbage, Asian pears and caraway vinaigrette.

Two large-plate courses passed the

taste test with flying colors. Steelhead Trout, crisply seared but still moist on the inside, came with caramelized endive, fennel puree and blood orange.

Delicate Parisian Gnocchi was served Roasted oysters in smoked paprika butter, with red wine-braised with almond gremolata and pickled mustard seeds duck, roasted confection) and made-in-house ice cream. mushrooms, pickled cherry and ricotta The drink menu at The Heritage salata (pressed, salted and dried ricotta). gives customers ample options, from Both of these show-stopper dishes specialty cocktails and cider to craft beer, demonstrated the kitchen’s prowess. including four on draft. Its wine cellar Also popular menu choices were compensates for its relatively small Seared Scallops and Pan-Roasted Flat selection by offering a smart array from Iron Steak, among others. which to choose.

Bread service is complimentary, but The restaurant occupies a totally you’ll need to request it. What comes to refurbished storefront space with the table is warm, chewy peasant bread comfortable seating for about 50. just waiting for diners to add a touch Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays of salted butter. Who knew something from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. so simple could taste so good?

A tinned ceiling painted black, Dessert fans will find enjoyment in subway tiles on the walls, and a liberal the made-in-house Caramel Panna Cotta, use of marble tabletops create an invitingly which is served in a mug and topped with retro yet fresh atmosphere. A cool jazzy a crisp layer of dark chocolate plus toasted playlist adds to the ambiance. coconut and chopped almonds.

Having a well-trained staff is another Among other desserts were French plus, one that’s too often taken for granted. butter cake, pavlova (a meringue-based

QUICK FACTS

The Heritage

7403 W. Madison St., Forest Park 708 435-4937 www.theheritageforestpark.com

RECOMMENDED DISHES:

COST:

HOURS:

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Avocado & Citrus Salad,

Small plates: $7 to $15

Tue - Thu 5-10 p.m.

EXTRAS:

Parisian Gnocchi and

Large plates: $15 to

Fri - Sat 5 - 11 p.m.

Reservations, especially

Steelhead Trout

$25 Brunch: $10-$13

Brunch: Sat - Sun

on weekends. Full bar.

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DINING Recently Opened

LISTINGS Following is a sampling of some of the best dining destinations in the western suburbs, including reader favorites, advertisers and a cross-section of just plain good places to grab a bite. Bon appétit!

CENTRAL DUPAGE NW DUPAGE & UPPER FOX VALLEY SW DUPAGE & LOWER FOX VALLEY SE DUPAGE & SW COOK NE DUPAGE & NW COOK

ADELLE’S: 535 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. 630 784-8015.

New twists on old American favorites served by seasoned professionals in a stylish ambiance.

Capacity: 160 plus 50 on outdoor patio. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: White fish. Entrée prices: $18-$34.

Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, banquets, wine room, carry-out, live jazz Th at 7 pm, live music on select other nights, lounge, fireplaces. T-Th 4:30-8:30, F-Sat 4:30-9:30, Sun 4-8. Reservations: Recommended.

ALLGAUER’S: 3003 Corporate West Dr, Lisle; in the Hilton Lisle/Naperville. 630 245-7650. Classic American fare with an eclectic twist in a contemporary environment. Specializes in locally sourced, dry aged steaks, fresh seafood and chops.

Capacity:196 at 44 tables. Yrs in bus: 35. Chef’s Choice: Potato-crusted halibut. Entrée prices: $25$44; lunch menu $9-$18. Extras: Bar, banquets, family friendly, Sunday brunch, breakfast buffet Mon-Sun, lunch buffet M-F, seafood buffet on Friday.

Breakfast M-F 6:30-11 am, Sat 7-11 am, Sun 7-9:30 am; Lunch M-Sat 11-3; Dinner M-Sun 4-10, F seafood & prime rib buffet 5:30-8:30, Sun brunch 10:30-2:30.

Reservations: Recommended.

ALTIRO LATIN FUSION: 308 Anderson Blvd, Geneva. 630 232-7717. A tapas restaurant combining innovative flavors from Spanish and Latin cuisine. Capacity: 50 + 40 outside. Yrs In bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Altiro tilapia tacos. Entrée prices: $8-$12. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, catering, patio.

Lunch T-Sat 11-3; Dinner M-Th 4-9, F-Sat 4-10; Brunch Sun 10-2. Reservations: Recommended. Affiliated with Al Chulo, 1400 S Neltnor Blvd., West Chicago, 630 520-0615.

ANYWAY’S CHICAGO RESTAURANT & PUB 5 E Roosevelt Rd, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 932-9323.

Classic neighborhood restaurant and pub serving American cuisine. Capacity: 200 at 45 tables.

Yrs in bus: 20. Chef’s Choice: Izzy’s jambalaya pasta and Certified Angus burgers. Entrée prices: $7-$15. Extras: Bar, carry-out, banquets, outdoor dining, kids’ menu, daily specials. M-Th 11:30 am1 am, F-Sat 11:30 am-2 am, Sun noon-1 am.

Reservations: Yes, for 10 or more. Additional location at 304 W Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, 630 351-8870.

ATWATER’S: 15 S River Ln, Geneva; in the Herrington Inn & Spa. 630 208-8920. Eclectic American cuisine with a rotating, seasonal menu in a European style atrium setting overlooking the Fox River.

Capacity: 40. Yrs in bus: 23. Entrée prices: $24-$45.

Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, banquets, catering, private dining in gazebo, event space. Breakfast M-F 7 am-11 am, Sat-Sun 8 am-11 am; Lunch M-Sun 11-2; Dinner Sun-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10; Brunch Sun 11-2.

Reservations: Recommended.

AUTRE MONDE CAFÉ: 6727 Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn.

Red Arrow Tap Room New Elmhurst tap room lets you come for the beer, stay for the barbeque

S

moke’s up at Red Arrow

micro-brews, plus wines and

and pulled pork, all with a

Tap Room, where high

ciders on tap.

choice of Kansas City sweet

tech meets craft beer and

A menu of “shareables”

or Texas spicy BBQ sauce.

backyard BBQ. This new-

features crispy Candied

Even in the noodle soup

concept pub and eatery

Bacon Strips, Jalepeno

or Caesar salad, the chicken

touts hands-on self-service.

Cornbread, and spicy yet

is marinated and smoked,

Stop by for a quick bite, and

sneakily healthy Buffalo

delivering deep, textured

you’ll order from an iPad

Cauliflower Bites. Smoked

flavors and a kick of heat.

handily installed at the table.

barbecue is the star. Pitmaster

Veggie and gluten-free

An app settles your bill, with

Chris Boletz earned his chops

selections round out the menu.

tax and tip rolled in.

in the barbecue kitchen at

Steps from the Metra

Chicago’s House of Blues.

station at 111 E 1st St. in

But don’t worry, help is on hand, with friendly servers

Mouth-watering standards

and expert “pourmasters” to

include beef brisket, baby

guide you through 48 local

back ribs, grass-fed burgers

downtown Elmhurst, Red Arrow is easily accessible.

– Anne Knudsen

708 775-8122. Mediterranean-infused fare served in an urban setting. Capacity: 85, 75 patio seating.

Yrs in bus: 5. Entrée prices: $13-$24, smaller plates $6-$15. Chef’s Choice: Pastas made fresh daily and flatbreads. Extras: Outdoor patio, private parties, catering, wine list, Sun brunch 10-2. T-Th 5-10, F-Sat 5-11, Sun 5-9. Reservations: Yes.

Dr, Aurora. 630 692-1300. Award-winning Greek/ Mediterranean restaurant with a modern flair.

Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Oven roasted lamb shank. Entrée prices: $21-$49. Extras: Bar, banquets, outdoor dining, catering, carry-out, craft beer on tap. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 11-9.

Reservations: Yes.

BALLYDOYLE IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT: 5157 Main St, Downers Grove. 630 969-0600. Classic Irish fare with a mix of burgers, salads and sandwiches.

Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 12. Entrée prices: $8-$19.

Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, live music Th-Sat, trivia night T, open mic night W. M-Th 11 am-1 am, F-Sat 11 am-2 am, Sun 11-10. Reservations: No. Additional location at 28 W New York St, Aurora, 630 844-0400.

BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO 2752 Showplace Dr, Naperville. 630 428-8500. Classic and contemporary authentic Italian dining in a casual, friendly setting. Capacity: 240. Yrs in bus: 9.

Chef’s Choice: Black fettuccine with lobster & wild mushrooms. Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Exhibition kitchen, bar, wine list, children’s menu, gluten-free menu, carry-out, catering, private parties, family friendly. M-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11-9.

Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 20560 N Rand Rd, Deer Park, 847 438-1850.

BARREL + RYE: 477 S Third St, Geneva.

630 402-0647. American bistro featuring craft beers, venison burgers and small shareable plates.

Capacity: 32, 25 at bar. Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Southern deep fried chicken. Entrée prices: $9-$16.

Extras: TVs, full bar, free Wi-Fi, carry-out, selection of whiskey, scotch and bourbon, patio. Sun-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-2 am. Reservations: No. BASILS GREEK DINING: 4000 Fox Valley Center

THE BURGER LOCAL: 577 S 3rd St, Geneva.

630 232-2806. Locally sourced beef burgers made in a rustic environment. Capacity: 100. Mths in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Double Diner or Hawaii burger.

Entrée prices: $11-$15. Extras: Carry-out, family friendly, full bar, outdoor seating, TVs. Sun-T 11-9, W-Th 11-10,F-Sat 11-11 (bar open later). Reservations: No.

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Photos courtesy of Gia Mia

GOOD FOOD

By T.R. Witom

Gia Mia Artisanal pizza, pasta and Italian small plates

U

p-and-comer Gia Mia, with outlets in Geneva and Wheaton, is in good hands under chef-owner Brian Goewey’s direction, who brings a creative farm-to-fork approach to pizza and contemporary Italian fare.

Goewey comes with extensive credentials that include involvement in opening more than 50 restaurants from quick-serve to high-end.

Gia Mia in Geneva, where we recently dined, opened last March; the Wheaton outlet came on the scene in April 2015.

The two establishments offer almost identical menus that focus on Neopolitanstyle, wood-fired brick oven pizzas; pastas; distinctive small and large plate dishes; and a modest but well-rounded beverage service.

Depending where they sit, diners have a view of the oak-fueled pizza oven which achieves toasty temperatures between 700 and 900 degrees Fahrenheit. That translates to an actual pizza-cooking time of 90 seconds.

The menu lists 14 shareable thin-crusted, 11-inch-diameter pizzas. Roasted Pear and Caramelized Onion proved a good choice, the flavor enhanced by garlic, basil, housemade mozzarella, arugula and gorgonzola.

Among others were Wild Mushroom, Margherita, Pancetta Arugula, Prosciutto

and Quatro Formaggio.

Our server cited veal meatballs as one of the most popular small-plate courses, and her endorsement was spot on. Three tasty golf ball-sized meatballs came plated with roasted tomato Veal Meatballs with polenta sauce and a creamy espresso or pistachio. polenta — all in all, a pleasing combination The bar at Gia Mia offers a diverse of flavors. selection of craft beers, specialty cocktails The Italian Farm salad also hit the and domestic and imported wines, many spot. Leafy greens and balsamic vinegar available by the glass. provided a delicious base for soppressata The spare, airy interior is illuminated (Italian dry salami), onions, peppers,

by Edison-bulb lighting. Large photos cherry tomatoes, roasted cauliflower of pizza dough in the making dress up and aged provolone. the walls. There’s room for about 80 A half-dozen pasta dishes further customers who sit at blonde wood tables, expands the dining options, which banquettes and the bar. A seasonal patio include bolognese, shrimp pappardelle increases overall capacity by 20. and linguini with shrimp pesto. Three Service is right on the money, with “bigger plates” featured roasted salmon, water glasses refilled and clean plates medallions of beef and piccata-style replaced without prompting. Both adults chicken thigh. Gluten-free options and children will find that Gia Mia offers are also available upon request. a comfortable environment for a delightful Nutella pizza, tiramisu and panna dining experience. cotta with blueberry sorbet are among Gia Mia is open daily except for Sunday, several dessert possibilities. Gelato fans when private parties can be booked. won’t be disappointed in the flavorful

QUICK FACTS

Gia Mia

15 S. Third St., Geneva 630 405-5544 www.giamiapizzabar.com

OTHER LOCATION

106 N. Hale St., Wheaton 630 480-2480

RECOMMENDED DISHES

COST

HOURS

EXTRAS

Wood-fired pizza,

Pizza, $12 to $15;

Mon - Tue 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m;

Full bar. On-street

creative small plates

small plates, $11 to $14;

Wed - Sat 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

parking. Catering.

large plates: $16 to $19

Wi-Fi.

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DINING CAPRI RISTORANTE: 324 Burr Ridge Pkwy, Burr Ridge. 630 455-4003. Authentic Italian fare served in a warm, elegant setting. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Homemade rigatoni with vodka sauce, with soup or salad. Entrée prices: $15-$40.

Extras: Full bar, carry-out, catering, outdoor dining, private parties. M 11:30-2 & 4-10, T-F 11:30-10, Sat 4-11, Sun 2-9. Reservations: Recommended.

CARLUCCI: 1801 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove.

630 512-0990. Rustic Italian restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Linguini bobonato. Entrée prices: $12-$33. Extras: Carry-out, private dining, outdoor dining, bar open later, live entertainment. Lunch M-F 11:30-3:30; Dinner M-Th 3:30-9:30, F 3:30-10:30, Sat 4:30-10:30, Sun 4:30-9:30. Reservations: Recommended.

CATCH THIRTY-FIVE: 35 S Washington St, Naperville. 630 717-3500. A deep and interesting variety of flavorful seafood and premium steaks in an uptown atmosphere. Capacity: 192. Yrs in bus: 11. Chef’s Choice: Chilean sea bass. Entrée prices: $16-$50. Extras: Bar, private parties, family friendly, outdoor dining, valet parking T-Sat. Lunch M-Sat 11:30-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. CHAMA GAUCHA: 3008 Finley Rd, Downers Grove. 630 324-6002. A Brazilian churrasco-style steakhouse featuring 14 meat selections, a large salad bar and award-winning service. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Picanha. Entrée prices: $30-$50. Extras: Full bar, extensive wine list, private rooms seating 25-75, all-you-can-eat dining.

Lunch M-F 11:30-2; Dinner M-Th 5-9:30, F 5-10, Sat 4-10, Sun 4-8:30. Reservations: Recommended.

CINE MODERN TAQUERIA: 29 E First St, Hinsdale.

630 590-5655. Contemporary Mexican restaurant serving quality Latin fare. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 3.

Chef’s Choice: Mole Negro. Entrée prices: $16-$30.

Extras: Outdoor dining, carry-out, delivery, daily specials, full bar, live entertainment on Th, free kids’ tacos on Sun. Lunch T-Sat 11:30-2:30; Dinner Sun-M 5-9, T-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11. Reservations: Yes. CITRINE CAFÉ: 100 S. Oak Park Ave, Oak Park.

708 948-7328. Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a modern atmosphere. Capacity: 127. Mths in bus: 6.

Chef’s Choice: Charred Octopus or Daily Health sausages Entrée prices: $14-$24. Extras: TVs, full bar, sommelier, wines from around the world, outdoor seating. M-F 4:30-10, Sat-Sun 4:30-11, Sun brunch 10:30-2. Reservations: Yes. CITYGATE GRILLE: 2020 Calamos Ct, Naperville.

630 718-1010. Fine dining serving contemporary American fare in a steakhouse atmosphere.

Capacity: 220. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Seared Diver Scallops and Steak Risotto. Entrée prices: $18-$39, Avg: $25. Extras: Live music F-Sat, private parties, catering, kids’ menu. M-Th 11:30-9, F 11:30-10, Sat 5-10 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes. CLARA’S: 6550 S Rt 53, Woodridge. 630 968-8899.

Fresh homemade pastas and sauces, fresh seafood, handmade wood stone pizzas, veal and beef dishes.

Capacity: 275. Yrs in bus: 29. Chef’s Choice: Shrimp Ersilia. Entrée prices: $8-$35, Avg: $12. Extras: Bar, patio, catering, carry-out, family friendly. T-Th 4-9, F-Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9. Reservations: Yes. COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT: 510 Village Center Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 887-0123. Upscale, yet casual dining featuring award-winning wines from Cooper’s Hawk’s own winery. Capacity: 300.

Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi Carbonara.

Entrée prices: $10-$30. Extras: Outdoor patio, bar, wine club, tasting room, retail boutique, private parties, full wine list, live music Th-Sat. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sat 11-10:30, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Recommended.

Additional locations at 100 W Higgins Rd, South Barrington, 847 836- 9463; and 1740 Freedom Dr, Naperville, 630 245-8000.

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CRAFT BEER

DINING

By Mathew Powers

COUNTRY HOUSE: 2095 S Kirk Rd, Geneva.

630 208-8181. Steaks, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, salads and pasta in a casual and rustic setting.

Capacity: 240 at 30 tables inside, 70 outside. Yrs in bus: 40. Chef’s Choice: Country Cheeseburger.

Entrée prices: $9-$20, Avg: $12. Extras: Carry-out, bar, kids’ menu, outdoor dining, catering and banquets. Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11; bar open until 1 am daily. Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 241 55th St, Clarendon Hills, 630 325-1444; and 6460 College Rd, Lisle, 630 983-0545.

History by the Pint Local breweries tap into the area’s past

I

n addition to getting your thirst quenched with some truly tasty brews, a visit to some of the area’s more distinctive craft breweries can also yield a new appreciation for local history.

At Two Brothers Brewing Company, you can almost hear the clang of giant hammers pound on iron or smell the coal that once filled this cavernous site. Built in 1856 as the Aurora Roundhouse, it was the nation’s oldest limestone railroad hub, providing the first railway link between Chicago and the Grand Ole Mississippi. Today, you can catch the Metra to Two Brothers Roundhouse, serving up artisan beer and food, with a good belt of live entertainment, too.

Nearby is Naperville’s historic downtown, home to Two Brothers’ Craftsman.

The building opened as a bake shop in 1910, but yeast is used in a far different way these days.

Expect a bar specializing in craft beers and handmade cocktails, a farm-to-table restaurant, a coffeehouse and a bakery.

Begun in 1836 and completed in 1848, the building of the 96-mile Illinois & Michigan Canal connecting Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River fell largely on the backs of immigrant workers.

Many took up residence in Lemont, home to Pollyanna Brewing. A sizable patio overlooks the canal, and patrons can easily see downtown from the bar, where refillable “growlers” (64 oz) and “howlers” (32 oz) of flagship beers hold sway.

The view hasn’t changed much since the 1870s.

Back in the day, the

noon whistle was the signal to Lombard factory workers to open their lunch pails — or grab a quick beer.

Noon Whistle Brewing pays homage with its extensive selection of sessionable (low-alcohol) brews. If you prefer something with more kick, rest assured, Noon Whistle has you covered after work, too.

Oak Park Brewing offers Frank Lloyd Rye, a nod to the famed Prairie School architect and one of the town’s favorite sons.

At Westmont’s Myths and Legends Brewing, each bottle tells a story, while Bedford Park’s 5 Rabbit Cervecería draws inspiration for its beers from Latin heritage and Aztec mythology.

For beer aficionados, these local breweries offer a fun opportunity to tap into the historic past, pint by tasty pint.

WHAT’S BREWING IN THE BURBS? The Red Arrow Tap Room, a new-concept bar and grill that recently opened in downtown Elmhurst, offers 48 self-serve micro brews as well as wines and ciders on tap. See related article on page 55.

Brew and View Feb 8 at 7:30 p.m.

At Two Brothers’ Roundhouse, enjoy a beer and the coming-of-age movie Boyhood starring Ellar Coltrane, Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette. Free.

History & Beer Feb 23, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Emmett’s in Downers Grove offers a history lesson along with a few beer samples. $45 ($30 for Downers Grove residents.)

Naperville Ale Fest Feb 25, noon to 4 p.m. at Frontier Park, serving up 130 beers, 15 food trucks and live music. $50 ($20 for designated drivers).

Party on Wayne! Feb 25 at 7:30 p.m.

The second installment of Two Brother’s Brew and view features a 25th anniversary showing of Wayne’s World. Arrive early for good seating!

Drink Beer at the Field Museum March 4, 8 p.m. - 11 p.m., 7 p.m. VIP entry) A number of west suburban brewers will be among the 70 pouring beer at this event. There will also be food, music and selected exhibits. $45 ($55 for VIP)

DAVANTI ENOTECA: 800 W Hillgrove Ave, Western Springs. 708 783-1060. Simple Italian fare served in a rustic wine bar setting. Capacity: 130 plus 30 on a seasonal patio. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: Focaccia di Recco, Burratta Salad and Davante Burger. Entrée prices: $11-$24. Extras: Brunch Sat 11-2 and Sun 10-2, full bar, daily specials, Bloody Mary bar, M-F rotating sandwich menu. M-T 11:30-9, W-Th 11:30-9:30, F 11:30-10, Sat 11-10, Sun 10-9 (bar open later F-Sat). Reservations: Yes. DELL RHEA CHICKEN BASKET: 645 Joliet Rd, Willowbrook. 630 325-0780. World-famous fried chicken in a 1940s-style Route 66 roadhouse featuring video gaming. Capacity: 225 at 40 tables. Yrs in bus: 70. Chef’s Choice: 50/50 burger and breakfast burger. Entrée prices: $10-$20, Avg: $13. Extras: Carry-out, bar, catering, over 50 beers. Sun-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: Yes. DEVON SEAFOOD + STEAK: 17W400 22nd St, Oakbrook Terrace. 630 516-0180. Sleek, upscale venue serving fresh seafood and steak. Capacity: 237. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Maple Plank Salmon Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. Entrée prices: $21-$58, lunch $11-$25. Extras: Private banquet room, vegetarian and gluten-free menus, wine list, happy hour M-F, full bar (open later), half-priced wine bottles on Mon.days. M-11-9 T-F 11-10, Sat 4-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. DITKA’S: Rt 83 & 22nd St, Oakbrook Terrace.

630 572-2200. Fine dining steakhouse also offering fresh seafood, burgers and sandwiches in a hospitable and vibrant atmosphere. Capacity: 350.

Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Da Pork Chop and Pot Roast Nachos. Entrée prices: $10-$50. Extras: Awardwinning wine list, full bar, private rooms, breakfast on Sat & Sun 9-2, complimentary valet parking, gluten-free options. M-F 11-10, Sat 9-10, Sun 9-9.

Reservations: Yes. Additional location in Chicago.

D.O.C. WINE BAR: 326 Yorktown Center, Lombard. 630 627-6666. Light, contemporary fare featuring more than 300 wines. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Butcher’s block. Entrée prices: $9-$35. Extras: Full bar, carry-out, lounge, wine flights, retail shop, private dining, daily specials.

M-Th 11:30-10, F-Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-9:30.

Reservations: Yes. EDDIE MERLOT: 28254 Diehl Rd, Warrenville.

630 393-1900. Upscale contemporary steakhouse with a lighter ambiance also known for its wine.

Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Prime aged steaks and wagyu. Entree prices: $23-$51.

Extras: Extensive wine list, outdoor dining, lounge with drink specials. M-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9.

Reservations: Recommended. Additional location at 201 Bridewell Dr, Burr Ridge. 630 468-2098.

EMPIRE BURGERS & BREWS: 48 W Chicago Ave, Naperville. 630 355-9000. Craft beers and burgers in an urban atmosphere. Extras: Carry-out, full bar, whiskey selection, live music, outdoor seating, happy hour. M-Th 11-1 am, F-Sat 11-2 am, Sun 11-midnight. Reservations: Accepted.

THE FINERY & BLACKSMITH BAR: 305 W Main St, St. Charles 630 940-2380. Contemporary fare with an ode to the American table in a bistro-like atmosphere. Capacity: Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice:

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Country Pheasant and Flat Iron Steak. Extras: Artisan cocktails, craft beers, Happy Hour, family friendly, carry-out, Sunday brunch. T-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 11-3 and 4-9. Reservations: Yes. EMILIO’S TAPAS BAR: 4100 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside.

708 547-7177. Spanish tapas in an authentic countryside atmosphere. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 28. Chef’s Choice: Paella and Datiles con Bacon.

Entrée prices: $6-$16 per person. Extras: flowered patio, online reservations, carry-out, bar, family friendly, “Tapeo” $1.95 bites menu 4:30-6:30 M-Fri, GrubHub and Yelp Eat 24, live entertainment Fridays, full bar, catering. M 4:30-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. FIRE + WINE: 433 N Main St, Glen Ellyn.

630 793-9955. Rustic and inviting restaurant with modern Italian flair, serving small-plate fare, authentic Neapolitan artesian pizzas and classic pastas in a family friendly atmosphere. Capacity: 135. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Hanger Steak and Grilled Romaine Salad. Entrée prices: $7-$19.

Extras: Bar, carry-out, wine list, craft beer, family friendly, kids’ menu, private event hosting, specials.

T-Th 4-11, F 4-midnight, Sat 3-midnight Sun 3-10.

Reservations: Call-ahead seating.

FOGO DE CHAO: 1824 Abriter Ct, Naperville.

630 955-0022. Brazilian steakhouse known for its churrasco style of cooking various meats over an open fire in a warm, contemporary atmosphere.

Capacity: 200. Mths in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Cordeiro and Picanha. Entrée prices: Avg: $32/$49. Extras: Full bar, family friendly, valet, seasonal patio, Sunday brunch. Lunch: Sun-F 11-2; Dinner: M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 5460 Park Pl, Rosemont, 847 678-7200.

FOXFIRE STEAKS, CHOPS & SEAFOOD: 17 W State St, Geneva. 630 232-1369. Casual steakhouse with the atmosphere of a downtown restaurant.

Capacity: 175. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Cajun Ahi Tuna. Entrée prices: $18-$46, lunch $9+. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, daily specials, carry-out, bar menu, wine list. M-Th 11-9, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: Yes, recommended on weekends.

FRANCESCA’S BY THE RIVER: 200 S Second St, St. Charles. 630 587-8221. Italian cuisine served in an upscale, contemporary setting. Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 18. Chef’s Choice: Pollo arrosto alla romana.

Entrée prices: $14-$36. Extras: Two bars, carry-out, kids’ menu, gluten-free menu, rotating monthly menu, nightly special, happy hour M-F 3:30-6.

Lunch M-Sun 11:30-3; Dinner S-Th 3-9, F-Sat 3-10.

Reservations: Yes. FULLER HOUSE: 35 E First St, Hinsdale. 630 537-1653.

Craft beer and bar food in an industrial, rustic setting. Capacity: 140. Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Buffalo shrimp or brisket grilled cheese. Entrée prices: $11-$20. Extras: Updated sound system, TVs, sidewalk seating, full bar, carry-out, beer garden in The Backyard. M-Th 11-11, F-Sat 11-midnight, Sun 11-10. Reservations: Yes, for 6 or more.

Experience the Finest Selection of Italian Cuisine One-of-a-Kind Gourmet Specialties, Custom Created by Experienced Chefs

GIBSONS STEAKHOUSE: 5464 N River Rd, Rosemont.

847 928-9900. Classic American steakhouse offering USDA Prime Steaks, fresh seafood and huge portions in a 1920s art-deco style setting. Capacity: 260. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: WR’s Chicago Cut. Entrée prices: $12-$52. Extras: Carry-out, catering, free valet parking, private parties, piano bar (open until 2 am), entertainment. M-Sun 11-2. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 2105 S Spring Rd, Oak Brook, 630 954-0000.

GIA MIA: 106 N Hale St, Wheaton. 630 480-2480.

Old-world authentic Neapolitan pizza in a rustic restaurant. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 1.5. Chef’s Choice: Hand-crafted meatballs. Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Newly renovated space, full bar, TVs,

483 Spring Road www.robertosristorante.com

•

Elmhurst

630.279.8486

Mon - Thurs 11 am - 11 pm • Fri 11 am - midnight • Sat 4 pm - midnight • Sun 2 - 10 pm

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CHEERS

DINING

By Buzz Brandt

carry-out, large wine selection, fresh ingredients from local sources, mobile brick-oven. M 4-9, T-Th 11-2 and 4-10, F-Sat 11-10. Reservations: No, but call-ahead seating available. Additional location at 13 N Third St. Geneva, 630 405-5544.

Ice Wine

HACHÉ MODERNE BRASSERIE: 524 W State St, Geneva 630 402-0288. Modern cuisine with traditional French influences. Yrs in bus: 1. Chef’s Choice: Buffalo Frog Legs. Entrée prices: $10-$56, Extras: Wine club, bar, brunch Sat-Sun 10-3:30. T-Th 11-9, F 11-10, Sat 10-10, Sun 10-8. Reservations: Yes.

Harvested in the bitter cold of night, a sweet, succulent delight

I

n select vineyards, when temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere have plunged into the single digits, clusters of grapes deliberately left hanging on the vines shrivel up and freeze into ice-sheathed pellets, concentrating the berries’ sugars and flavor profiles.

In the bitter cold of night harvesters handpick the frigid fruit before rushing the yield to hydraulic presses to be crushed while still frozen. The result is ice wine, an intensely sweet, highly prized and gloriously expensive dessert wine sought by collectors the world over.

Although the ancient Romans may have made a form of ice wine, its production was first documented in 1830 when, during a particularly harsh harvest season, winegrowers in Dromersheim, Germany, used grapes that had failed to ripen as livestock feed.

When it was discovered that the animals liked the sweetness of the fruit, the winemakers pressed the berries and ice wine was born. Because of the vagaries of weather, the production of ice wines

remained rare in Germany until the end of the 1960s when modern winemaking techniques were employed.

In the next decade, Canada entered the global ice wine market and is today the largest producer, followed by the United States — notably Michigan and the Finger Lakes region of New York State.

Amber-gold in the glass, ice wines are a sensory delight — fullbodied and lusciously rich, thick and sweet, but at the same time exhibiting a silky mouthfeel balanced by a dynamic, refreshing acidity (from typically higher-acid grapes like

Riesling, Gewürtztraminer and Vidal Blanc) and a dry finish. Flavor and aroma profiles include stone fruits, pears, mangoes, melons, honey and lychee nuts. Alcohol levels are generally lower than those of most table wines.

Because the production of ice wines is still so dependent on weather conditions — too warm or excessively frigid winters — and because labor costs are so high and yields so low, these wines are quite expensive and are typically sold in 375 ml bottles.

They are best served chilled and paired with dessert delights.

EXPERT WINE RECOMMENDATIONS • JULIE BALSAMO Downers Grove Wine Shop 2014 Ironstone Cabernet (California) $12.

Aromas of cherries, charred oak and spices mingle with flavors of currants, plums and raspberries. Touches of chocolate and mocha on the finish. Supple and smooth.

2014 Hey Mambo Sultry Red (California) $11.

Zinfandel-blend with a nose of vanilla bean,

cherries, citrus, spice and herbs.

Palate exploding with notes of black fruits, currants and plums. Jammy with lots of depth and texture, while the finish is long and lingering.

• TARIK ZAYED Leo’s Wines & Spirits, Woodridge, 2015 Elouan Pinot Noir (Oregon) $24.

From top Oregon vineyards, an opulent, complex Pinot flaunts a bouquet of cranberries,

cherries, spice and a hint of earth. A vibrant acidity lends backbone to harmonious flavors of plums, cherries and minerality.

2013 Catena Malbec (Argentina) $20.

Expansive flavors of ripe plums, blueberries, blackberries, pepper and sweet spices join a perfumed nose of black cherries and violet. Acidity is bright, and good minerality shows on the finish.

HARRY CARAY’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel.

630 953-3400. Classic Italian steakhouse in a sportsthemed atmosphere. Capacity: 550. Yrs in bus: 9.

Chef’s Choice: Prime steaks, chops and Italian Specialties. Entrée prices: $12-$52. Extras: Outdoor dining, bar, sports memorabilia, carry-out, private events. Lunch M-Sun 11-5 (bar only); Dinner M-Sat 5-10, Sun 4-9. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 10233 W Higgins Rd, Rosemont, 847 699-1200.

HEAVEN ON SEVEN: 224 S Main St, Naperville.

630 717-0777. Louisiana-style restaurant featuring Cajun and Creole entrées. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 13. Chef’s Choice: Shrimp voodoo over rice.

Entrée prices: $9-$20. Extras: Cooking classes, bar, catering. M-Th 11-10, F 11-11, Sat 10-11 pm, Sun 10-9, Sat-Sun brunch 10-3. Reservations: Yes. HILLGROVE TAP: 800 Hillgrove Ave, Western Springs. 708 290-0055. Traditional bar fare with a creative twist served up in a family friendly neighborhood sports bar. Capacity: 115, plus 50 on a seasonal patio. Mths in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Nacho Bites or Bourbon Glazed Pork Chop. Entrée prices: $12-$19. Extras: TVs, 24 craft beers on tap, selection of bourbons and whiskeys, carry-out, full bar, outdoor seating. M-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-1 am, Sun 11-10 pm. Reservations: Yes. HOLY MACKEREL!: 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard; in the Westin Hotel. 630 953-3444. Fresh interpretations on fish house classics in a vintage décor. Capacity: 150. Yrs in bus: 9. Chef’s Choice: Kasu marinated sea bass. Entree prices: $9-$46. Extras: Private parties, bar, carry-out. Breakfast M-Sat 6-11, Sun 6 am-noon; Lunch M-Sat 11-4; Dinner M-Sat 4-9.

Reservations: Yes. IVY RESTAURANT: 120 N Hale St, Wheaton.

630 665-2489. Casually elegant dining featuring steaks, chops and seafood. Capacity: 170, plus 90 on the patio. Yrs in bus: 8. Chef’s Choice: Black pepper shrimp. Entrée prices: Avg: $19. Extras: Banquets, outdoor dining, carry-out. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sat 11-10, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes. KAMA BISTRO: 9 S La Grange Rd, La Grange.

708 352-3300. Fresh and modern Indian fare with unique tastes served in an upscale and cozy setting.

Capacity: 55 plus 20 on patio. Yrs in bus: 5. Chef’s Choice: Lamb Chop Masala. Entrée prices: $10-$34.

Extras: Catering, gluten-free & vegan options, carryout, delivery, patio. M 4-9:30, T-Th 11:30-9:30, F-Sat 11:30-10:30, Sun 11:30-9. Reservations: Yes. MÉCÉNAT BISTRO: 821 W Burlington Ave, Western Springs. 708 246-8668. American eclectic fare.

Capacity: 110. Yrs in bus: 5.5. Chef’s Choice: Pan seared whitefish. Entrée prices: $12-$30. Extras: Outdoor dining, full bar, live entertainment F & Sat nights, private dining, retail wine shop. T-Th 4-11, F-Sat 4-midnight, Sun 4-8. Reservations: Yes. MELTING POT: 255 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg.

847 843-8970. Traditional and European fondue in a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. Capacity: 131 at 31 tables. Yrs in bus: 21. Chef’s Choice: Fondue.

Entrée prices: $32-$45. Extras: Bar, extensive wine list, ladies night. M-Th 5-10, F 5-11, Sat 4-11, Sun noon-9.

Reservations: Recommended. Additional locations

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at 1205 Butterfield Rd, Downers Grove, 630 737-0810; and 4931 S Rt 59, Naperville, 630 717-8301.

MORTON’S: 1751 Freedom Dr, Naperville.

630 577-1372. Steaks and seafood in an upscale American steakhouse featuring an a la carte menu. Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 7. Chef’s Choice: Porterhouse steak. Entrée prices: $40-$60. Extras: Bar, valet parking every day but M, lounge, private dining, patio. M-Th 5:30-10, F 5:30-11, Sat 5-11, Sun 5-10 (bar opens at 4). Reservations: Recommended.

Additional locations at 9525 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Rosemont, 847 678-5155; and 1470 McConnor Pkwy, Schaumburg, 847 413-8771.

MAYA DEL SOL: 144 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park.

708 358-9800. Casual, yet upscale New World Latin dining. Capacity: 175, 130 outdoors. Yrs in bus: 8.

Chef’s Choice: Carne asada. Entrée prices: $14$36. Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, live entertainment, gluten and dairy free options, catering, carry-out, private dining. M-Th 4-10, F-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9, Sun brunch 9-2. Reservations: Yes. NOBEL HOUSE: 305 W State St, Geneva.

630 402-0452. American comfort food and handcrafted cocktails served up at this gastropub. Capacity: 70.

Yrs in bus: 2. Chef’s Choice: Big Texas Burger. Entrée prices: $10-$24. Extras: Carry-out, family friendly, full bar, free Wi-Fi, TVs, catering, brunch Sat & Sun, kids’ menu. M-T 11-10, W-Th 11-11, F 11-2 am, Sat-Sun 10-2 am. Reservations: No. PALMER PLACE: 56 S La Grange Rd, La Grange.

708 482-7127. Casual American fare featuring 35 kinds of hamburgers. Capacity: 400+ (seats 220 inside, 260 outside). Yrs in bus: 39. Chef’s Choice: Sirloin steak sandwich. Entrée prices: $9-$24. Extras: Bar with over 300 beers, kid’s menu, outdoor dining.

M-Th 11-midnight, F-Sat 11-1 am, Sun noon-11.

Reservations: No. PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE & GRILLE: 5 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. 630 571-1808. Classic steakhouse with premium steaks and fare with tableside preparation.

Capacity: 300. Yrs in bus: 3. Chef’s Choice: 14–oz New York Strip steak. Entrée prices: $26-$59. Extras: Private dining rooms, island bar, seasonal patio, live music M-Sat, carry-out. M-Th & Sat 4-10, F 11-10,Sun 4-9 (bar open later). Reservations: Yes. P.F. CHANG’S: 2361 Fountain Square Dr, Lombard.

630 652-9977. Fresh Asian inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: Mongolian beef and lettuce wraps. Entrée prices: $8-$19. Extras: Bar, vegetarian and gluten-free options, kids’ menu, food happy hour. Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11. Reservations: Yes. Additional location at 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, 847 610-8000.

PLANK BAR & KITCHEN: 120 Water St, Naperville.

630 778-9676. Upscale bar serving tastes of local food in a rustic modern atmosphere. Capacity: 50, 12 at bar. Chef’s Choice: Beer braised short rib or Mezcal brined pork tacos. Entrée prices: $12-$28.

Extras: Covered and valet parking. Breakfast M-F 6:30-10:30, Sat-Sun 7:30-11:30; Dinner M-Sun 4:30-10 (bar until 11). Reservations: Yes. PARKERS’ RESTAURANT & BAR: 1000 31st St, Downers Grove. 630 960-5700. Casually elegant restaurant serving a contemporary American menu. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 15. Chef’s Choice: Cedar-planked halibut and charcoal-grilled center cut pork chop. Entrée prices: $14-$65, Avg: $32.

Extras: Bar, outdoor dining, private dining, live music in lounge W-Sat. Lunch M-F 11:30-2:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-10:30, Sat 4-10:30, Sun 4-8:30.

Reservations: Recommended.

PATTEN HOUSE RESTAURANT & BAR 124 S Second St, Geneva. 630 492-5040. A newly renovated historic landmark featuring a distinctive menu with a Cajun flair. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus:

2. Chef’s Choice: BBQ Pork Sandwich and Honey Sriracha Glazed Brussel Sprouts. Entrée prices: $18-$30. Extras: Full bar, outdoor seating, TVs. M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 10-10. Reservations: Yes. PATIO RESTAURANT: 7440 S Kingery Hwy (Rt 83), Darien. 630 920-0211. Casual dining featuring American food and specializing in BBQ ribs. Capacity: 300.

Yrs in bus: 27. Chef’s Choice: BBQ ribs. Entrée prices: $7-$22. Extras: Carry-out, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly, drive-up. M-Th 10:30-10, F-Sat 10:30-11 pm, Sun 10:30-9:30. Reservations: No. Additional locations at 4400 Fox Valley Center Dr, Aurora. 630 820-8800; 151 S Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, 630 226-9696; and 2780 S Highland Ave, Lombard, 630 627-2600.

ROBERTO’S RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA: 483 Spring Rd, Elmhurst. 630 279-8486. Italian cuisine served in a romantic, neighborhood setting accented by white tablecloths. Capacity: 250. Yrs in bus: 54.

Chef’s Choice: Fish entrées. Entrée prices: $14-$44.

Extras: Carry-out, bar, outdoor dining, catering, family friendly, banquets. M-Th 11-11, F 11-midnight, Sat 4-midnight, Sun 2-10. Reservations: Yes. SEASONS 52: 3 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook.

630 571-4752. Fresh grill and wine bar focusing on low-calorie entrées and farmers’ market-influenced fare. Capacity: 350. Yrs in bus: 4. Chef’s Choice: Caramelized sea scallops. Entrée prices: $16-$25.

Extras: Extensive wine list, live music, private dining.

M-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11, Sun 11-9. Reservations: Yes, recommended. Additional location at 1770 E Higgins Rd, Schaumburg. 847 517-5252.

SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE: 244 S Main St, Naperville. 630 305-0230. Steak, chops and seafood in a 1940s Chicago-style décor. Capacity: 300.

Yrs in bus: 18. Chef’s Choice: Seafood and steak.

Entrée prices: $30-$60. Extras: Bar, live entertainment, valet parking. Lunch M-F 11:30-4:30; Dinner M-Th 5-10, F 5-11, Sat 4:30-11, Sun 4:30-10. Reservations: Recommended.

SUSHI HOUSE: 830 E Ogden Ave, Westmont.

630 920-8948. Sushi, sashimi and other Japanese fare. Capacity: 100. Yrs in bus: 21. Chef’s Choice: Cracker Roll. Entrée prices: $10-$20. Extras: Carryout, catering, delivery, private parties, kids’ menu, sushi bar, beer & wine. M-F 11:30-10, Sat noon-10, Sun noon-9:30. Reservations: Yes. Additional locations at 950 Warren St, Downers Grove, 630 968-0088; 1107 Lake St, Oak Park, 708 660-8899; and 281 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630 221-8986.

SUZETTE’S: 211 W Front St, Wheaton. 630 462-0898.

Crêperie, pâtisserie, boulangerie, French country bistro and wine bar in a casual setting. Capacity: 88. Yrs in bus: 16. Chef’s Choice: Beef bourguignon crêpe and Suzette’s benedict. Entrée prices: $13-$40. Extras: Wine bar, bakery, carry-out, full bar, outdoor dining, private parties, boutique weddings, occasional live music. Pâtisserie open at 7 am, M-Sat, Sun brunch 11-2, afternoon tea T-Sat 2 pm, Sun 1 pm. Breakfast T-Sat 7-11 am, Sun 8-11 am; Lunch T-Sat 11-4; Dinner T-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5:30-9:30.

Reservations: Recommended.

VIE: 4471 Lawn Ave, Western Springs. 708 246-2082.

Seasonal, contemporary American à la carte menu with European influences in an elegant atmosphere.

Capacity: 120. Yrs in bus: 12. Chef’s Choice: Gnocchi.

Entrée prices: $26-$46. Extras: Bar, new lounge space, gluten-free and vegetarian options, monthly Sunday suppers. M-Th 5-9, F-Sat 5-10. Reservations: Yes. YORK TAVREN: 3702 York Rd, Oak Brook.

630 323-5090. The oldest, continuously operating restaurant in DuPage County, restored and updated in 2006, serving burgers and American fare.

Capacity: 60. Yrs in bus: 172. Chef’s Choice: Burgers.

Entrée prices: $6-$20. Extras: Carry-out, bar. M-F 11-1 am, Sat 11-2 am, Sun noon-10. Reservations: No. WEST SUBURBAN LIVING | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | FEBRUARY 2017 61

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Photos by LeVern Danley

Charitable Events of Note Photos by Jim Nonneman courtesy of Naper Settlement

SCENE&SEEN

THE NAPERVILLE HERITAGE SOCIETY raised $244,000 at its Barn Raising Benefit in support of Naper Settlement’s Agricultural Interpretive Center. Under a large heated tent at Naper Settlement, Masters of Ceremony were (left, from left) WGN Radio’s Orion Samuelson and Max Armstrong. In attendance were 300+ guests, including (clockwise from top left; left to right) Nicole and Dan Jurjovec with Emory and Sarah Plitt; Anne Hunter and Jennifer Kennedy; Taylor Koranda, Nicole Jurjovec and Sarah Plitt; Robert Van Iten, Tom Priz and William (Bill) Kohley; Josie Miller, Dwight Yackley, Ruth Yackley and Frank Slocumb; Robert Obarski, Rebecca Boyd-Obarski and Co-Chair Brien Nagle, all of Naperville.

Photos by John Reilly Photography

THE FOX VALLEY ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER RECENTLY HELD ITS ELEVATE FUNDRAISER at the St. Charles Country Club. This was the inaugural event for the organization and it raised $50,000 to help local businesses accepted into the FVEC program. These businesses receive expert guidance from consultants with the experience, knowledge and understanding of how to help achieve company success. Ernie Mahaffey (top) of Oak Brook celebrated winning the FVEC’s President’s Award, presented by Austin Dempsey, FVEC’s president and a Batavia resident. This award is given to an individual for his or her loyal support and service to FVEC. Kim Elam (bottom), of St. Charles and owner of Kimmer’s Ice Cream in Wheaton and St. Charles, accepted the Entrepreneur of the Year award from Michael Algrim, FVEC board member.

IN DECEMBER, CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO hosted the 27th Annual St. Nicholas Ball, celebrating the life of St. Nicholas in support of the child development centers, after-school programs, counseling services and teen parenting centers provided by Catholic Charities, at the Hilton Chicago on

South Michigan Avenue. The event raised $1.4 million, and over 1,200 guests attended, including (left to right) Scott and Rhonda Swanson of Chicago and Kavita and Manas Athanikar of Naperville; Tracy and Tom Booker of Oak Park, pictured with Cardinal Blasé Cupich; and Carol and Michael Bilder of Burr Ridge.

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Photos by John Reilly Photography

Photos courtesy of Edward-Elmhurst Health

Photos by Jeff Nelson

MORE THAN $62,000 WAS RAISED AT THE ELMHURST MEMORIAL HOSPITAL (EMH) FOUNDATION’S “Hope. Lives. Here.” inspirational luncheon at the Butterfield Country Club in Oak Brook.

NBC 5 News Today co-anchor and breast cancer survivor Zoraida Samboli was the featured guest speaker. Jonny Imerman, founder of Imerman Angels, a group that provides one-on-one support for those diagnosed with cancer, survivors and caregivers was the emcee. “Hope. Lives. Here.” is the EMH Foundation’s ongoing initiative to increase awareness and raise funds for the Nancy W. Knowles Cancer Center and Oncology Services located on the Elmhurst Hospital campus. The luncheon also supports the hospital’s integrative medicine services, which provide complementary therapies to aid in the healing process of those who have cancer. In attendance were (above, from left) Danelle Achepohl of Elmhurst, event co-chair;

ELMHURST CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS (ECPA) held its first benefit, the Spotlight Gala, at the Elmhurst Art Museum. Formed with the goal of building a center for music, theater, dance and comedy anchored in downtown Elmhurst, ECPA met its goal for the evening of raising $45,000 to complete the planning stages of this initiative.

Those in attendance included (top to bottom; from left) Trish Belletire, Tracy Milefchik, Ann Klimek and Jenny Toreja; Michael St. Peter, featured performer at the ECPA Spotlight Gala Preview Reception, and his parents Ed and Cynthia; and Cathy and Kevin O’Keefe, all of Elmhurst.

Caron Lizzadro of Oak Brook, event co-chair; Christina Morrissey of Hinsdale, event co-chair; Mary Lou Mastro, President & CEO, Elmhurst Hospital; Sambolin of NBC 5 News Today; Imerman of Imerman Angels; and Susan Tyburski, executive director, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation. Later Sambolin (above, on left) spoke with Lisa Gangi of Naperville.

THE NOTRE DAME PARISH ANNUAL FUNDRAISER “COUNTRY NIGHTS” took place in November at the Butterfield Country Club in Oak Brook.

More than $100,000 was raised, making it the most successful fundraiser ever for the parish. Proceeds from the event provide critical funds for parish ministries that include adult education, a food pantry and many service programs to help the underprivileged. Funds also help to subsidize the parish school and religious education programs.

Pictured are auction co-chairs (top left, from left) Scott and Jennifer Marshall, Don and Amy Draudt, and Shannon and Jan Morel; Denise and Jim Arenz; and (left) Dorita and Marty Malecki with Fr. Patrick Mulcahy, all of Clarendon Hills.

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LAST WORD

By Michele Weldon

Perfectly Pressed Is Over Dressed Wrinkles are a part of life, and smoothing them out is simply one chore too many

I

’m wrinkly.

And no, I am not referring to my face or my neck or any part of my nearly 60-year-old physique.

My wrinkles are in my clothes, not my skin. And if it means an intervention with the ironing board and steam iron to make them go away, I am at peace with my wrinkles. They are just all right with me.

This is not new. I am not suddenly lazy.

Yes, I do long for the glory days in the ‘70s of Qiana fabrics, wrinkle-resistant polyester, and those highly flammable pants that — no matter what — never, ever showed a crease. I could practically roll around on the floor and still look neat.

Crisp, rigid and starched is not my look or a reflection of my personality. I do not want to look or feel “pressed.”

I will most assuredly not iron napkins, which is why I watch reruns of “Downton Abbey” in astonished disbelief at how much time the staff spent pressing linens.

And yes, even the newspaper. Every day.

My no-iron solution is to wear mostly knits and any style of clothing that can endure an hour or so in the dryer on hot.

For work and special outings, I wear outfits I can hand wash and dry flat, smoothing them out on a wide surface to dry wrinkle-free. Maybe in a pinch I will take my jackets and silk blouses to the dry cleaners. That way, George — my favorite dry cleaner of all time, with a wide smile and a deep, visceral connection to the wardrobe of my life — can take out the stains and the wrinkles, too.

I don’t know why I hate ironing so much. Maybe it is due to the fact that, growing up, my mother gave my three

“I am at peace with my wrinkles.

They are just all right with me.”

sisters and me each a rotating week of family ironing.

A family of eight. Six with uniforms.

Mostly it was shirts for my brothers, white blouses for my sisters, and now and then a tablecloth or two.

Some mothers in the neighborhood reportedly also ironed the boxing shorts of their husbands, and some families had ironed sheets. Not us. But we did have ironed dinner napkins and ironed placemats. And occasionally my mom would iron the kitchen curtains after a wash. I considered that an over-reach.

Back in the ‘60s and ‘70s, if I knew it was my ironing week, I would stare at the ironing basket with dread and disdain, understanding that I had to finish the ironing on time or risk a grounding or a reduced allowance.

Not even having the ironing board located in the basement near the console record player and piles of albums and 45 records of The Monkees, The Beatles and The Dave Clark 5 made the hours of ironing go any more smoothly. The later addition of a small black-and-white TV just feet from the ironing board didn’t even improve my mood.

My oldest sister, Mary Pat, on the contrary, loved to iron. Still does. It made her giddy. Sometimes she would volunteer to take my week and swap a chore with me. Because unlike her, I did not mind

changing the sheets on all the beds.

I could see that Mary Pat relished the transformational element inherent in ironing — a sluggish pile magically turned into a neatly hung line of blouses and shirts, arms starched and smooth, destined for applause and approval.

I travel often for work and sometimes after I arrive at a hotel and pull out my wardrobe, I see that even though I packed the dress or jacket in plastic, it is a wrinkly mess. To remedy that, I hang the garment on the far end of the shower curtain rod, turn the shower on hot, shut the door and pray that the steam will melt away the wrinkles. Sometimes it works.

Maybe one out of five times, I am shamed into pulling out the tiny tabletop ironing board and getting to work. And I admit, it doesn’t take all that long and I do end up looking better for the effort.

Still, it’s not enough to get me to iron at home more than once a year.

My three sons, on the other hand, learned to iron early on because I didn’t volunteer to iron and they liked the look of starched shirts. Expecting me to iron was akin to expecting me to cut the crusts off their bread.

So lately when my sons are home for a few days, they go down to the basement and iron their own shirts and pants.

I guess the willingness to embrace being wrinkly skips a generation.

64 FEBRUARY 2017 | WWW.WESTSUBURBANLIVING.NET | WEST SUBURBAN LIVING

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