Rustic Italian at Balena – Lincoln Park, Chicago

From the moment we walked in Balena it was perfect. The high ceiling with wood beams and big round lights give Balena an open and warm feel. Decor elements like the custom leather bar, wood block floor, old-timey cabinets, cutting board style tables, red leather folding chairs and Italian tile in greens blues and cream […]

Not So Small Plates at Wood – Lakeview, Chicago

The first time I passed Wood I peaked in and saw a beautiful wood bar with more than enough seats, a serious line up of liquor and rich orange leather booths. I immediately thought, “This is the perfect spot for a cozy drink and meal on a winter day.” Glad I didn’t wait until winter […]

Love Letter To The Perfect Hotel: Sa Pedrissa, Deià Mallorca

Sa Pedrissa will ruin you. It will raise the bar so high that other hotels and travel destinations pale in comparison. Located in the small town Deià known for its famous resident Robert Graves, Se Pedrissa is steps from the Mediterranean with a unforgettable view of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Absolute perfection. I was […]

Restaurant Xelini The Barrigón- Deià, Mallorca Spain

This summer I spent an incredible week in Deià, Mallorca for my wedding. My mom hosted a welcome dinner for the families at Xelini The Barrigón located just off the main street in Deià. Xelini is a charming restaurant in a 130 year old stone building with amazing views of the Serra de Tramunta mountains. […]

Best Pancakes In Atlanta – Ria’s Bluebird

Ria’s Bluebird was the last restaurant on my southern road trip and it was a great way to end a memorable trip. It was recommended by an Atlantan that swears by their pancakes being the best in the Atlanta. Located in Grant Park across from the historic Oakland Cemetery Ria’s is colorful and eclectic just […]

Tweet, Let’s Eat! – Uptown, Chicago

There is something for everyone at Tweet. Gluten-free, full bar, great beer selection, healthy options, comfort food options, Mexican dishes, vegetarian and vegan options, huge portions, toys brought to the table for kids, free Wi-Fi, plenty of parking on Sheridan, outdoor seating. You get the picture.

Chef Roy Choi Talks Hunger and Food Insecurity at This Year’s MAD Symposium

In South L.A. 44 percent of children live in poverty, 17 percent in extreme poverty. Hunger in this country is an important topic that can be over looked in the food world but Chef Roy Choi gave a talk he called, “A Gateway to Feed Hunger: The Promise of Street Food” at this year’s MAD […]

Macanese Cuisine at Fat Rice – Logan Square

Update: Cha Gordo (Fat Tea) – This is where you need to go for brunch! Fat Rice is the restaurant everyone and their mother has been talking about recently. I wanted to see for myself if this number four rated best restaurant in America 2013 (according to Bon Appetit) lived up to the […]

Farm to Tavern – Farmhouse | River North

There really isn’t anything not to like at Farmhouse Tavern. You feel like you are in a shabby chic farmhouse with details like the rustic stain glass windows, exposed brick, mix and match chairs, and copper wire lights. Most of the decor is salvaged from around Chicago. The service is very welcoming and very good […]

Best Breakfast Sandwiches In Boston – Mike & Patty’s

This tiny breakfast spot on the corner of Church Street is off the beaten path but that doesn’t stop the crowds from flocking here. If it weren’t for the line outside it would be easy to miss Mike & Patty’s as it blends into the neighborhood. That and the smell of bacon.