Tag: Chicago

Experience Two of the City’s Top Lunch Spots

Asian cooking, Chicago restaurants, Mediterranean, Restaurants, Sushi

Ready for a new take on lunch? Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood at Somerset Viceroy Chicago or opt for the sophisticated artistry of modern Japanese cuisine in the West Loop at Nobu Chicago. Our suggestion? Try both.

Somerset at Viceroy Chicago (1118 N State St., Chicago, IL

The Somerset Burger. Photo credit Viceroy Chicago.

Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, Viceroy Chicago’s signature restaurant, Somerset, embodies the motto of “Bright Flavors & Gold Coast Glamour.” The menu blends old-world Mediterranean traditions with a fresh, modern edge, creating a perfect atmosphere for a business lunch or a social outing.

Beet Salad. Photo credit Viceroy Chicago.

Guests can experience the “dance of zesty harissa, smoky zaatar, and the earthy warmth of pistachio and dukkah” through a variety of shareable plates and composed dishes. Those looking for a more substantial lunch can opt for the acclaimed Somerset Burger, layered with chermoula aioli and caramelized onion, or the Crispy Pork Milanese topped with fresh arugula and parmesan. Other midday favorites include Crispy Brussels Sprouts with pumpkin seed pesto or a bubbling Lobster Mac crowned with chili crumb.  

Photo credit Viceroy Chicago.

With its elegant, light-filled dining room and spacious patio overlooking State Street, Somerset offers a stylish yet relaxed setting that works as both a place for a power lunch or an afternoon escape. Paired with curated wines and inventive cocktails, Somerset transforms every midday meal into a vibrant celebration of flavor, culture, and connection. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. 

Nobu Chicago (854 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL)

Nobu Chicago Bar Lounge. Photo credit Nobu Chicago.

For a truly elevated midday experience, Nobu Chicago offers a Prix Fixe Lunch Menu available weekdays from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. For a set price of $40, guests can embark on a three-course culinary journey, selecting from signature Nobu favorites like Yellowtail Jalapeño or Tuna Sashimi Salad for the cold course, followed by a hot dish such as Rock Shrimp Tempura Creamy Spicy or Wagyu Sliders. Complete the experience with a decadent dessert like the Whisky Cappuccino.

Rock Shrimp Tempura at Nobu Chicago. Photo credit Nobu Chicago.

Beyond the prix fixe, the full lunch menu presents a wide range of options for every palate. Guests can indulge in renowned dishes like the Black Cod with Miso or explore the extensive sushi and sashimi selection, including specialties like Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna.

Nobu Chicago Sushi Bar. Photo credit Nobu Chicago.

For a comprehensive tasting, the Signature Bento offers a curated selection of some of Nobu’s most celebrated dishes. In addition to its acclaimed dining, Nobu Chicago’s appeal was highlighted by Travel + Leisure readers, who named it one of the “10 Favorite Hotels in Chicago of 2025” for its prime location for dining and shopping in the Fulton Market District.

Top photo: Yellow Sashimi with Jalapeno. Photo credit Nobu Chicago.

 ‘MJ the Musical’ sizzles in return Chicago engagement

Entertainment, Musical, Theater, Uncategorized

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

Magical moves and a stellar collection of songs are taking the spotlight on stage at Chicago’s James M. Nederlander Theatre.

“MJ the Musical” has returned to The Windy City on the First National Tour and is energetically relaying the life story and career of the iconic entertainer Michael Jackson. The show runs through Aug. 24.

Jordan Markus stars as Michael Jackson in “MJ the Musical.” Photo by Matthew Murphy.

In this production, which is directed and choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon with book by Lynn Nottage, Jackson is seen preparing for his massive 1992 Dangerous tour, which had immense risks and stresses as it was mounted. While he’s rehearsing for the tour, a cameraman and reporter are allowed in to document the making of the tour and to interview Jackson about his work, the inspirations for his music and thoughts about his fame and career.

As the show goes on, the audience journeys to all stages of Jackson’s career from his days as a youngster with the Jackson 5 to his various solo work as well as his relationship with his family and his domineering father.

Pictured is a scene from “MJ the Musical,” currently in Chicago. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

Jordan Markus stars as MJ. The dancer/singer proves he’s perfect for the role as he slides artistically across the stage interpreting Jackson’s moves smoothly. Markus’ vocals are dynamic and he definitely does justice to Jackson’s tunes.

Kudos also to Devin Bowles for his strong performance as Joseph Jackson. Bowles also performs as tour director Rob. Among other performers starring in “MJ” are Melvin Gray Jr., Quentin Blanton Jr., Bryce A. Holmes, Erik Hamilton, Brandon Lee Harris, Kristin Stokes, Kevin Cruz, J. Daughtry and others.

Outstanding musical numbers include “Billie Jean,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Dancing Machine,” “Thriller,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” and “I Want You Back.”

“MJ” is truly the celebration of the music of an entertainment genius.

FYI: “MJ the Musical” continues to Aug.24 at James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Tickets range from $49-$153. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.

Top photo: Jordan Markus with “MJ” in the first national tour of “MJ.” Photo by Matthew Murphy.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Black Ensemble Theater puts a spotlight on three legendary singers

Entertainment, Theater

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

The music of beloved singers Gladys Knight, Patti Labelle and Dionne Warwick is being celebrated at Black Ensemble Theater (BET) in Chicago.

“That’s What Friends Are For,” the latest production at BET, runs through Aug. 10. The show tells a fictional tale of singers Knight, LaBelle and Warwick gathering together backstage prior to a planned Las Vegas residency. They talk about their lives and the friendship they share.

The show, produced by Black Ensemble Theater founder Jackie Taylor, is written and directed by Daryl Brooks. It’s an energetic production featuring powerful vocals from the talented ensemble cast.

“That’s What Friends Are For” stars Rose Marie Simmons as mature Gladys; Michaela Dukes as young Gladys; Sybyl Walker as mature Dionne; Brianna Buckley as young Dionne; Tamara Batiest as mature Patti; Courtney Driver as young Patti; Dennis Dent as Charles Gibbons; Dwight Neal as Luther Vandross; Jaimee Thomas as Michael Peterson and Treqon Tate (ensemble).

Among highlighted numbers are the engaging “That’s What Friends Are For,”  “You Are My Friend,” “If Only For One Night,” “Midnight Train To Georgia” and “Walk On By.”

Audience members will leave the theatre singing the tunes of these iconic musical artists.

FYI: “That’s What Friends Are For,” will run through Aug.10 at Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St., Chicago. Visit blackensembletheater.org.

About Eloise Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s ‘Billie Jean’ tells powerful story of tennis icon

Entertainment, Theater

By guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

The stage of Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s The Yard is currently set as a tennis court. And on that court the impactful story of tennis legend Billie Jean King is being played out. 

“Billie Jean,” which is a world premiere production, continues through Aug. 10 at Chicago Shakespeare Theater. The play was written by Lauren Gunderson and directed by Marc Bruni. “Billie Jean” was produced and developed in collaboration with Harriet Newman Leve, Stephanie Sandberg, Lily Tomlin and Jane Wagner.

The show relays the story of King as she goes from a young girl pursuing her dreams to the woman who becomes not only a champion of the game of tennis but a champion for equality on all levels, specifically with women’s rights on the sports field and in business.

Giving powerful performances are Chilina Kennedy as Billie Jean King and Dan Amboyer as her husband Larry King. Also starring in the cast are Julia Antonelli, Elena Hurst, Courtney Rikki Green, Wynn Harmon,  Carolyn Holding, Jurgen Hooper, Callie Rachelle Johnson, Lenne Klingaman, Nancy Lemenager and Murphy Taylor Smith.

“Billie Jean” has no lulls and definitely keeps an audience’s attention.

About the show, playwright Gunderson says, “CST is the perfect place to launch this new play about Billie Jean King, her activism, and her ongoing impact on the world. Her story is a hero’s journey, and the house of Shakespeare’s heroes is a fitting home for this theatrical debut about excellence, equality, and heart.”

To learn more about “Billie Jean,'” visit chicagoshakes.com.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written world.

Disney’s Beauty & the Beast: A Timeless Musical Triumph

Cadillac Palace Theatre, Entertainment, Theater

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

Fans of the classic tale of “Beauty and the Beast” won’t want to miss the stunning production currently on stage in Chicago.

“Disney’s Beauty and the Beast,” which is on a national tour, continues to Aug. 2 at Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre. The theatrical production, directed and choreographed by Matt West, is based on the popular 1991 movie.

The “tale as old as time,” tells the story of Belle, a small-town French girl, who is a lover of books and reading. One day, while in search of her father, who is missing, Belle stumbles upon a castle where a former priest who has been turned into a Beast resides. She is captured and while there she interacts with the Beast and all the other inhabitants of the castle. Lessons learned in this story revolve around love, kindness as well as beauty being in the eye of the beholder. It is only true love which will transform the Beast back to his princely form and it is Belle who is the catalyst for this.

Photo courtesy of Broadway in Chicago.

Actors Kyra Belle Johnson as Belle and Fergie L. Philippe as the Beast are dynamic in their starring roles and both display strong voices. The production’s ensemble group of actors are excellent as well.

“Beauty and the Beast” features stunning costumes, rousing dance numbers and a score of catchy tunes. Among highlighted numbers are “Be Our Guest,” “A Change in Me,” and “If I Can’t Love Her.”

Photo courtesy of Broadway in Chicago.

Musical theater lovers will definitely be drawn into this show.

FYI: “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast”  continues to Aug. 2 at Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. For more information, visit BroadwayInChicago.com.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Top photo courtesy of Broadway in Chicago.

ANNOUNCING WINE SPECTATOR’S WINNERS OF 2025 RESTAURANT AWARDS

Michiana, Restaurants, winery

Annual Awards Program Recognizes the World’s Best Wine Lists—
Special ‘Restaurant Awards’ Issue Highlights Revitalization of Steak Houses, Aged Wines for Today’s Generation

Wine Spectator, the world’s leading authority on wine, has unveiled the winners of the 2025 Restaurant Awards, which honor the world’s best restaurants for wine. This year’s awards program recognizes 3,811 dining destinations from all 50 states in the U.S. and more than 80 countries internationally. 

Photo courtesy of Soby’s.

“A wine list is a restaurant’s identity in print, and this year’s Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winners reflect both deep knowledge and a passion for discovery,” said Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher, Wine Spectator. “I proudly present the 3,811 restaurants worldwide that earned a Restaurant Award this year—we raise a glass to all our winners.”

Launched in 1981, the Restaurant Awards represent the world’s only program focused exclusively on restaurant wine service. They are assigned on three levels: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence and the Grand Award, with 2,010; 1,704; and 97 winners this year in each respective category.

Photo courtesy of Le Bon Georges

This year, Wine Spectator has granted three new Grand Awards: Selby’s in Atherton, CA, Soby’s in Greenville, SC and Le Bon Georges in Paris, France. The Restaurant Awards issue includes exclusive profiles on each winner and the talent behind each of the wine collections that earned them this honor.

Photo courtesy of El Che.

Also featured in Wine Spectator’s special Restaurant Awards issue: “What’s Old is New Again,” as restaurants place an emphasis on revisiting and uplifting tried and true classics.

Salle à Manger. Photo courtesy of the Grand Hotel.

The Restaurant Awards issue, which features a tribute to late Grand Award-winning American chef and restaurateur Charlie Trotter, becomes available to readers July 15th.

Follow Wine Spectator on Instagram (@wine_spectator) and use the hashtag #WSRestaurantAwards for posts about this year’s awards. 

Photo courtesy of Cascade Prime Steak and Seafood.

WineSpectator.com/Restaurants also features coverage of winners, interviews with leading wine directors, wine picks and pairing tips from sommeliers at award-winning programs. In the Restaurant Search, all winners can be searched by name, location, award level, cuisine, wine specialties and pricing. Winners are also profiled in the free Restaurant Awards app, available for iPhone and iPad users.

Photo courtesy of Cafe Monarch.

About Wine Spectator 

Wine Spectator is the world’s leading authority on wine. Anchored by Wine Spectator magazine, a print publication that reaches around 3 million readers worldwide, the brand also encompasses the Web’s most comprehensive wine site (WineSpectator.com), mobile platforms and a series of signature events. Wine Spectator examines the world of wine from the vineyard to the table, exploring wine’s role in contemporary culture and delivering expert reviews. Parent company M. Shanken Communications, Inc., also publishes Cigar Aficionado, Whisky Advocate, Market Watch, Shanken News Daily and Shanken’s Impact Newsletter. 

For winners in the Phoenix area.

For winners in the Chicagoland area.

For winners in Michigan.

For winners in Indiana.

parade.com: 12 Best Restaurants to Visit in Chicago Inspired by The Bear Season 4—Including Where They Go on the Show

Uncategorized

https://parade.com/living/best-restaurants-chicago

‘Kimberly Akimbo’ lights up the stage at CIBC Theatre

CIBC Theatre, Entertainment

By guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

It’s no surprise that “Kimberly Akimbo” garnered five Tony Awards. The hit musical is a standout on many levels.

“Kimberly Akimbo” is currently being presented by Broadway in Chicago at CIBC Theatre through June 22. 

The play, which opened on Broadway in 2022, revolves around  16-year-old character Kimberly Levaco, who has a genetic disorder making her age rapidly to where she looks decades older. Kimberly’s family has moved to New Jersey and she must get used to her new surroundings, new classmates and new people whom she hopes will accept her. 

There are plenty of bittersweet moments as well as humorous scenes in this show with its sweet character and her dysfunctional family in the spotlight.

Carolee Carmello does a terrific job portraying Kimberly and makes her a character the audience can definitely care about. The entire cast is an ensemble of strong performers. Also starring in the show are Miguel Gil, Jim Hogan, Emily Koch, Grace Capeless, Skye Alyssa Friedman and others.

The score of “Kimberly Akimbo” is a standout as well, featuring catchy music and witty lyrics. Music is by Jeanine Tesori with lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Securing a iicket to this production will, no doubt, ensure an entertaining evening at the theater.

FYI: “Kimberly Akimbo” continues through June 22 at CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe St., Chicago. Tickets are $35 to $125. Visit broadwayinchicago.com.

Sidebar: Actress from “Kimberly Akimbo’ shares family recipe

Skye Alyssa Friedman enjoys stepping into the kitchen.

“I enjoy good food and making my own food,” said Friedman.

The actress is currently starring as Teresa in “Kimberly Akimbo.”  The production runs through June 22 at Chicago’s CIBC Theatre.

Friedman said it’s much more difficult to prepare your own food while on tour though.

“When I moved to New York City for college I lived alone and cooked for myself,” she said.

Among favorite meals she’d prepare were seafood, pasta and soup.

“It’s nice trying different restaurants (when on tour),” she said.

Friedman, who said she’s not a “picky” eater, remembers special dishes her mother made while she was growing up. Among favorite specialty meals were prime rib and Yorkshire pudding, which her mother made often for Christmas.

The actress had some family influences when it came to cooking.

“I was inspired by my grandparents and parents and what they passed on,” Friedman said. Healthy food was always in the spotlight in her family’s kitchen, Frieman stressed. “My mom always made food with healthy ingredients.”

Friedman said she’s not really into following the work of famous chefs.

“So many people (everyday cooks) make yummy food. They don’t have to be a chef,” she said.

Friedman said she’s enjoying her role with the touring production of “Kimberly Akimbo.” “I absolutely love the way it’s written,” she said about the show. “I love how funny and irreverent it is but it’s also bittersweet and so life affirming.”

The following recipe is from Friedman.

Yorkshire Pudding

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cups of flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons oil

    Mix all ingredients, except the oil, together.
    Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
    Preheat oven to 450°.
    Take an 8×8 square pan and pour the 4 tablespoons of oil into it.
    Heat the pan for 2 minutes before pouring in the cold batter.

    Cook for 20 to 30 minutes.
    Do not open the oven door during cooking.
    Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy outer edges and the custard-like inside.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Joffrey Ballet’s ‘Alice’ a whimsical whirlwind of beautiful music and dance

Lyric Opera House, Theater, Uncategorized

By guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

The Joffrey Ballet has another winner on its hands. The esteemed ballet company is presenting “Alice’s Advenures in Wonderland” at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago. The production continues to June 22.

“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” based on Lewis Carroll’s famous tale, is expertly choreographed by the talented Christopher Wheeldon. Wheeldon is also the choreographer of The Joffrey Ballet’s popular “The Nutcracker.”

The troupe is at the top of its game, as it always is, with this production. The dance moves are exceptional, the costumes and sets are colorful and the use of puppetry and other theatrical props are fantastic.

While the Joffrey members are lauded dancers they are also talented in the acting department.

Among dancers in key roles in the production are Amanda Assucena as Alice; Stefan Goncalvez as White Rabbit; Victoria Jaiani as Mother/Queen of Hearts; Edson Barbosa as Magician/Mad Hatter; Dylan Gutierrez as the Duchess and Alberto Velazquez as Jack/Knave of Hearts. The score of “Alice” is also noteworthy for its blend of beautiful and innovative sounds.

It would be nice if The Joffrey would bring this stellar piece back again soon.

FYI: THE Joffrey Ballet presents “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago through June 22. Visit joffrey.org.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Eater: Overheard at the 2025 James Beard Awards

Chicago restaurants, Drink, James Beard 2025 Award Semifinalists

https://www.eater.com/pre-shift/887235/overheard-at-the-2025-james-beard-awards