Chicago

Last weekend I skipped town and visited friends in the Windy City. Chicago has always been one of my favorite cities. It has culture, personality, and best of all--delicious food! I didn't do much sight seeing but I did have time to fit in a Cubs game and eat and drink to my heart's content. I attempted to get a reservation to Alinea two months in advance but with no luck! Luckily, it just means I have to make another trip to finally get to eat there. Regardless, there was no shortage of eating....

It was cold the day of the Cubs game so we stopped in for some brunch at Goose Island Brewery to warm up first. It is conveniently located right across the street from Wrigleyfield.

delicious fried cheese curds.....midwestern take on mozzarella sticks?

turkey burger with bacon, avocado, grilled pineapple AND cranberry cream cheese

 Fortunately, we were able to get a brunch reservation at The Publican. I have to say it was one of the most delicious brunches ever!

red wine poached egg with bearnaise sauce and prosciutto on sourdough

they have delicious bloody marys! bonus: beer chaser

spicy pork rinds....fried and coated in cheese and espelette seasoning

weiswurst with a Bretzel

Needless to say, I am in much need of a detox. I was disappointed that I didn't have a chance to check out a Rick Bayless restaurant over the weekend. However, I was sent off with a nice surprise--a Frontera Grill outpost at the O'Hare airport! Chicago never disappoints!