PINK CREME BRULEE

This Valentine’s Day, I wanted to give the guys something that they could add to their arsenal to impress that special someone. Creme brulee is one of the most commonly ordered desserts and arguably the most intimidating dessert to make. But what if I told you it’s...

THE PERFECT DAY OF SERVICE MENU

If you’ve ever volunteered at a shelter, you know how rewarding of an experience it can be.  Shelters, like food banks and soup kitchens, are extremely important institutions within our communities — especially here in Chicago where the winter months are brutal.  Even...

ITS ALL GRAVY, BABY!

This final Thanksgiving post goes out to my Facebook friend, Christina, who asked “hey chef, what about the gravy?!”  Well, Christina, this one’s for you. In my post Thanksgiving Dinner Part I: The Bird I actually snuck in a quick and easy pan sauce with a twist –...

THANKSGIVING DINNER PART II: THE SIDES

In my last blog post, I covered the ins and outs of the Thanksgiving turkey.  Now, let’s get into what’s arguably the most exciting part of Thanksgiving dinner – the sides.  Side dishes are the real stars of the table and many of us will happily make an entire meal...

THANKSGIVING DINNER – PART I: THE BIRD

Let’s be honest, Thanksgiving is America’s favorite holiday because it’s the only day that’s all about the food.  We’ve waited the entire year for that big, golden bird with all the trimmings.  This is the day where foods that dare not meet during other months, now,...