Tag: History

Article: The Ultimate Ranking Of Michter’s Entire Whiskey Lineup

Distiller Spirits, Kentucky Bourbon Classic, Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Louisville, Michter's, Uncategorized

The Ultimate Ranking Of Michter’s Entire Whiskey Lineup https://flip.it/uPGQ-f

What’s Happening This Holiday Season at Journeyman & The American Factory

Distiller Spirits, Distilleries, Gin, Journeyman Distillery, Lake Michigan, Whiskey

COMEDY ON THE ROCKS

  • Location: The American Factory (258 South Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385) 
  • Date: Friday, December 27th
  • Time: 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm CT 
  • Price: $22/person, must be 21+ 
  • Tickets: Available here
  • Details: Head to The American Factory for an evening of laughs and libations at Comedy on the Rocks. Journeyman welcomes Dave Dyer, a regular on The Bob & Tom Show and a former writer for Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, alongside Will Green, a New England comedy scene fixture who has performed at festivals such as Gilda’s LaughFest and the Milwaukee Comedy Festival. Bring your friends, enjoy cocktails made with Journeyman’s award-winning spirits, and kick back for a fun evening of comedy. 

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE FEATHERBONE FACTORY 

  • Location: The Featherbone Factory (109 Generations Dr, Three Oaks, MI 49128) 
  • Date: Tuesday, December 31st 
  • Time: Staymaker Prix-fixe Dinner: 4:30 pm – 10:00 pm ET, NYE Dance Party 9:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. ET
  • Price: Prix-fixe dinner: $75/person, NYE Dance Party: $40/person
  • Tickets: Available here.
  • Details:  Begin your NYE celebrations at Staymaker Restaurant with a three-course prix-fixe meal paired with signature Journeyman cocktails. Afterward, join the dance party for music, drinks, and dancing. Each dance party ticket includes access to the event, a welcome cocktail, two drink tickets, and a midnight toast. Additional drink tickets are available for $10 each or five for $40
  • MEET THE MAKERS: ART OF DISTILLING 
  • WHERE: The American Factory, 258 South Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385
  • DATE: January 19
  • TIME: 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. CT 
  • RESERVATIONS: Here
  • DETAILS: In the final installment of Journeyman’s Meet the Makers series, join Head Distiller Jacob Rippetoe and founders Bill and Johanna Welter for an up-close look at how Journeyman crafts its award-winning spirits. Taking place at The American Factory, this free event offers the chance to experience the art and history behind Journeyman while sampling their signature spirits and cocktails.

BURNS NIGHT: A SUPPER OF CELEBRATION

WHERE: The Featherbone Factory, 109 Generations Dr. Three Oaks, MI 49128 

  • DATE: January 25 
  • TIME: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. ET
  • RESERVATIONS: Here 
  • DETAILS: Journeyman is honoring national Scottish poet Robert Burns’ birthday with an authentic Burns Night Supper at The Featherbonr Factory. The team will set the mood accordingly with a candlelit ambiance, bagpipe music, poetry readings, and hearty Scottish dishes. Guests will also have the opportunity to sample unreleased single-malt whiskeys crafted by Journeyman while enjoying a cozy winter celebration of one of Scotland’s most beloved poets. Each guest will leave with a 200-mL bottle of Silver Cross Four Grain Whiskey. Tickets are $80 per person, and attendees must be 21 or older to attend.

ZERO PROOF GIN & N/A COCKTAIL OFFERINGS

  • WHERE: The Featherbone Factory, 109 Generations Dr. Three Oaks, MI 49128 and The American Factory, 258 South Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385
  • DETAILS: Just in time for Dry January, Journeyman has released a zero-proof version of their beloved Field Gin — crafted in collaboration with Chicago’s iconic Field Museum of Chicago. An ideal bar cart addition, the non-alcoholic spirit has tasting notes of herbs, sweet berry, citrus, cucumber, juniper and coriander, providing a classic gin-like profile with a crisp and clean finish. Available for $34.99/bottle, the Zero Proof Field Gin can be purchased at both locations in Three Oaks and Valparaiso and will be available on Journeyman’s website. Plus, the Journeyman team is using the new spirit to shake up some tempting non-alcoholic cocktails available at their campus restaurants in Valparaiso, Indiana and Three Oaks, Michigan. Sips include the Dirtless Martini with N/A Field Gin, olive juice and blue cheese olives, the N/A Lavender Gimlet with lavender simple syrup, lime and grapefruit juice, and the N/A Ramos Gin Fizz with lemon juice, soda and foamy egg white.

Kardea Brown’s The Way Home: A Celebration of Sea Islands Food and Family

Southern cuisine

A contemporary Southern cook from Charleston who channels the traditions and culture of her Gullah/Geechees heritage, Kardea Brown is the Emmy nominated award host of Food Network’s Delicious Miss Brown. The author of The Way Home: A Celebration of Sea Islands Food and Family with over 100 Recipes (HarperOne), Brown is a best selling New York Times author with over 455,000 followers on Instagram. Many of the recipes in her book are those that have been passed down through her grandmother and her mother and celebrate the cuisine of the Gullah/Geechees who originating from West Africa were enslaved on the rice, indigo and Sea Island cotton plantations. Settling along the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia, the Gullah/Geechees have retained many facets of their history including language and foodways. The book, featuring 125 recipes and an array of gorgeous full-color photos, is filled with easy-to-make recipes.  Follow Kardea on Instagram.

the creator of the pop-up New Gullah Supper Club and has appeared on Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped Junior, Cooks vs. Cons, Family Food Showdown and Farmhouse Rules, on Instagram.

The following recpes and photos are reprinted with permission from The Way Home.

Chicken & Dumplings

  • 6 Tbsp (¾ stick) unsalted butter, divided
  • 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4 stalks celery, sliced ½ inch thick
  • 4 medium carrots, sliced into ½-inch-thick rounds
  • 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 6 cups chicken stock
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ bunch fresh parsley leaves, roughly chopped
  •  

Dumplings

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • 2 Tbsp vegetable shortening
  • 2/3 cup buttermilk

Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add 4 Tbsp butter. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper; add to pan. Cook 3 minutes per side or until golden. Transfer to a plate.

Add remaining 2 Tbsp butter, onion, celery and carrots to pan; season with salt and pepper. Cook 3 minutes or until vegetables are coated with fat and slightly golden, stirring frequently and scraping up bits that cling to bottom of pan. Sprinkle with flour; stir until vegetables are coated. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add chicken stock, bay leaf and browned chicken along with any juices that have collected. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook 45 minutes or until chicken is tender and cooked through.

Dumplings

In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Using a fork, cut shortening into flour mixture. Slowly add buttermilk, gently mixing to incorporate.

 Remove chicken from pot; shred with 2 forks. Return chicken to pot. Using 2 spoons, sprayed with cooking spray if desired, top stew with 1 Tbsp scoops of dough. Cover; simmer 15 minutes or until dumplings double in size. Remove from heat; discard bay leaf. Garnish with parsley.

Limpin’ Susan

  • 3 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into strips
  • 2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 
  • 1 yellow onion, diced 
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced 
  • 2 cups sliced fresh okra or thawed from frozen 
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice 
  • 2 cups chicken stock 
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt 
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 

In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the bacon to drain on paper towels. Add the shrimp to the bacon fat and cook until just barely seared, about 4 minutes. Remove to a separate plate. Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Stir in the onion and garlic.

Cook until starting to soften, 2 to 3 minutes, then add the okra to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice (this will help cut the slime). Stir in the rice and saute until the onion is lightly browned, about 3 minutes more. Add chicken stock, salt and pepper and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to loosen any browned bits in the bottom of the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and add the shrimp back to the skillet.

Cover and cook until the rice is tender and cooked through, about 20 minutes. During the last 5 minutes of cooking time, use a fork to stir the bacon into the rice. Fluff and serve.

Benne Wafers

  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking soda 
  • 1 large egg 
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour 
  • 1 cup toasted sesame seeds 
  • Nonstick cooking spray, for your hands

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment.

In the bowl of a stand mixer or in a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream the butter for about 30 second, so that it is even softer. Add the sugar, vanilla, salt, baking soda and egg and beat until just combined. Add the flour and mix until smooth. Stir in the sesame seeds.

Drop the dough by tablespoonful onto the baking sheets, making sure to leave at least an inch between the wafers for spreading. Spray your hands or a spatula with nonstick spray and press the cookies down to keep them from doming.

Bake until golden brown and starting to crisp on the edges, 10 to 12 minutes. Allow the wafers to cool for 1 minute on the baking sheets, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Hashtag This: Germany’s Most Instagrammable Christmas Markets

Adventure, Berlin, Christkindlesmarkt, Cologne, Cranger Weihnachtszauber, Dortmund, Dresden, Essen, EssenMunich, Hauptmarkt, Herne, Holiday, Holiday events, Holiday Travel, Nuremberg, Stuttgart, Uncategorized
Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt | Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

Striezelmarket- #striezelmarkt

Next up we have Dortmunder Weihnachtsmarkt, situated in the beautiful city of Dortmund. Being one of the markets on the list that has more than one hashtag variation, this popular market is one of the largest in Germany. With the opportunity to ice skate hand in hand or watch a spectacular live performance with your loved one, this market serves the perfect romantic scene. It would be a disservice not to speak on the market’s most famous feature—its dazzling Christmas tree. It stands more than 45 meters tall and is coined as one of the largest in the world, making a stunning proposal spot. 

Christmas Market Frankfurt– #weihnachtsmarktfrankfurt

Frankfurt’s Christmas Market attracts more than 3 million visitors per year, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. It is a traditional winter market full of festivities, with Christmas carols and church bells ringing, located in the scenic old town centre, decorated with thousands of lights, ribbons, and bells. For a perfect proposal, the balcony of St. Nicholas Church overlooking the market is ideal—offering breathtaking views of the festive lights and perfect for those looking for a more private, intimate setting to pop the question with it being outside the market. 

Cranger Weihnachtszauber- #crangerweihnachtszauber

Up next is Cranger Weihnachtszauber, situated in Herne. The market spans across 30,000 metres of land and is home to more than 100 attractions, shows, and live acts, so it’s safe to say you’re in for a treat no matter what day you go. For those looking to propose, why not take it on the ice? With a beautifully illuminated ice rink, it creates the perfect magical backdrop, and one your loved one will definitely not forget.

Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt- #nürnbergerchristkindlesmarkt

Photo courtesy of Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt


Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt takes place during Advent in the Hauptmarkt, the central square in Nuremberg’s old town. Reaped with history and activities for all, from live performances to adventure tours, it’s perfect for families, couples, and friends. The perfect proposal spot here is the balcony of the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady). This balcony overlooks the market and exudes timeless historical charm. 

The above information is courtesy of Diamonds Factory

Join Me Saturday, December 7 at the Indiana History Center in Indy for a book signing

Book signings, Books, Indiana Historical Society, Indianapolis

I will be one of more than 60 authors will join us in the William H. Smith Memorial Library
at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center for a fun-filled day of
mixing, mingling, and book signing. A sampling of the 16 books I’ve written which I will be signing include such true historic crime as A Jazz Age Murder in Northwest Indiana, How to Murder Your Wealthy Lovers & Get Away with It, America’s Femme Fatale: The Story of Serial Killer Belle Gunness, and Murders That Made Headlines. Some of my other books include: Hauntings of the Underground Railroad and Lincoln Road Trip: The Back Roads Guide to America’s Favorite President.


This year’s book topics range from sports and biographies to fiction and youth
titles—and, of course, a lot of Indiana history.


Featured authors include:


Presented by
Visit indianahistory.org for a full list of books.


General admission on Dec. 7 includes access to the Holiday Author Fair,
all our exhibits and Festival of Trees

Buzzard’s Roost Celebrates Prohibition Repeal Day with a Barrel Roll and a New 8-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon

Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Louisville

Like meeting with friends for drinks? Enjoy toasting the New Year with a glass of Champagne or order a Margarita while sitting by the pool on a hot summer day?

If so, you owe a big thanks to Repeal Day. It was a big deal on December 5, 1933 when the 21st Ammendent to the Constitution was ratified, making it legal to drink again. People came out into the streets to celebrate when the news made headlines and was broadcast on the radio.

It had been more than a decade when America went dry on January 17, 1920 with the passage of the Volstead Act, outlawing the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the U.S. Almost immediately the conseuqnces were dire.  Before Prohibition forced thousands of people out of work, 89 distilleries lined Main Street in downtown Louisville. Poof, those jobs were gone.

Not many people were for the law even at the beginning and its appeal lessened with each passing year.

According to the Mob History Museum website, as early as 1922, 40 percent of people polled by Literary Digest magazine were for modifying the National Prohibition Act (regulating alcohol) and 20 percent backed repealing the 18th Amendment. In 1926, 81 percent of people polled by the Newspaper Enterprise Association favored modifying the Prohibition statute or outright repeal of the amendment. Indeed, as time went on, the only people who really really liked Prohibition besides the most dedicated teetotaler were guys like Al Capone who was earning as much as $60 million to as high as $100 million a year from bootlegging. All that money was corrupt and dangerous with violent gang murders including the famous Valentine’s Day Massacre.

So why isn’t Repeal Day on everyone’s calendar? Afterall, both National Pfeffernuesse Day (pfeffermuesses, in case you don’t know, are a type of German cookie) and National Fried Shrimp Day are among the many rather strange holidyays that are national holidays. But Repeal Day has faded into obscurity.

At least in most cities throughout the U.S.

But in Louisville, where bourbon is king, Repeal Day is being celebrated.

Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey is literally rolling out the barrel to celebrate the 91th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition.

Buzzard’s Roost also is raising a glass to Repeal with the release of a new single-barrel Founders 8-Year-Old Bourbon on Thursday, Dec. 5

When &          Thursday, Dec. 5 at 11 a.m.

Where             Barrel Roll kicks off at Buzzard’s Roost, 624 W. Main Stt at 6th St.

Who                Buzzard’s Roost Co-founders Jason Brauner and Judy Hollis Jones                                                    and Lead Distiller Ethan Spalding will lead the barrel-roll parade down
                        Main Street.

                        Hot Sauce Brass Band will lead a second line for all barrel roll                                                                     participants.

Back at the Buzzard’s Roost Tasting Room & Distillery, tastes of the new
Founders 8- Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon will be available and the bar will be open.

Buzzard’s Roost Founders; 8-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon

  • 115.6 Proof
  • Available only at the Buzzard’s Roost Tasting Room & Distillery ($150 per bottle)

Visuals           Judy and Jason leading the barrel roll down Main Street, followed by the
                        Hot Sauce Brass Band and bar-towel-waving crowd

                        The Buzzard’s Roost team will be dressed in 1920s Prohibition-era garb, with plenty of                             flapper dresses, fringe and bow ties and bowler hats!

                        Jason Brauner and Ethan Spalding rolling the barrel down the sidewalk
                        and across the street

Explore the Latest Trend in Travel: Jet Setting with Zicasso

Animals, Elegant dining, Gastronomy, Gourmet, Historic foodways, Historic Restaurants, International, Italian Cuisine, Ocean, Outdoors, Pacific Ocean, Regional & Ethnic, Resorts, Restaurants, Set-Jetting, Thai, Zicasso

The Set-Jetting explosion in the travel industry blends the magic of the silver screen with the glamor of international exploration, letting travelers immerse themselves in the real-world locations of their favorite movies and TV shows. For those who want to indulge, luxury travel company Zicasso offers carefully crafted extraordinary itineraries designed to transport travelers into these cinematic landscapes.

Group giraffe in National Park of Kenya, Africa. Photo courtesy Vyacheslav Argenberg

From the historic paths of Italy and Malta, where Gladiator II will unfold, to the lush islands of the South Pacific seen in Moana 2, the dramatic landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities from Mufasa: The Lion King, and the spiritual depth of Thailand as depicted in The White Lotus Season 3, Zicasso’s tailored itineraries offer an immersive travel experience that’s as captivating as the stories on screen.

Here’s a glimpse into what these luxury set-jetting tours offer:

Gladiator II (Release Date: November 22, 2024): Walk the Path of a Gladiator in Italy and Malta

Beata Vergine del Rosario (Pompei) – Dome Interior. Photo courtesy of Livioandronico2013

Relive the epic drama of ancient Rome with a personalized journey through Italy and Malta. Explore the majestic Colosseum in Rome, the awe-inspiring ruins of Pompeii, and the historic forts in Malta where key scenes from the Gladiator series were filmed. This itinerary offers a blend of historical immersion and cinematic wonder. Priced starting at $6,600 per person.

Link to itinerary: https://www.zicasso.com/i/italy-malta/walk-the-path-of-a-gladiator 

Moana 2 (Release Date: November 27, 2024): Discover the Mystical Islands of the South Pacific

Channel the spirit of adventure on a once-in-a-lifetime trip across New Zealand, Samoa, and Tahiti, the stunning backdrops for Moana 2. Dive into the turquoise waters, explore hidden beaches, and connect with the rich Polynesian culture that breathes life into the Moana universe. Ideal for families and adventure seekers alike, this itinerary combines natural beauty with cultural discovery. Priced starting at $6,900 per person.

Link to itinerary: https://www.zicasso.com/i/new-zealand-samoa-tahiti/islands-south-pacific-tahiti-new-zealand-samoa-itinerary

Mufasa: The Lion King (Release Date: December 20, 2024): A Journey Through Pride Rock in Kenya and Tanzania

Masai Mari. Photo courtesy of Thomas Fuhrmann

Step into the majestic world of Africa’s wilderness with this The Lion King-inspired safari across Kenya and Tanzania, the iconic settings for the upcoming movie Mufasa: The Lion King. This family-friendly safari takes travelers through the Serengeti and Masai Mara, where breathtaking landscapes mirror the scenes from the beloved film. Experience the thrill of seeing lions, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat while learning about local conservation efforts and Maasai culture. Priced starting at $9,800 per person.

Link to itinerary: https://www.zicasso.com/i/kenya-tanzania/lion-king-inspired-family-safari-pride-africa

The White Lotus Season 3 (Release Date: 2025): Explore Thailand’s Spiritual Essence

Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Photo courtesy of Stefan Fussan.

Inspired by the themes of life, death, and human experience from The White Lotus Season 3, this 12-day luxury tour of Thailand goes beyond the lush shooting locations to dive deep into the country’s rich spiritual and cultural fabric. From receiving a monk’s blessing in Chiang Mai to dining in treetop salas on the serene shores of Koh Samui, this journey offers an opulent experience, filled with reflection and rejuvenation. Priced starting at $9,100 per person.

Link to itinerary: https://www.zicasso.com/i/thailand/cambodia/white-lotus 

Each of these itineraries can be fully customized, ensuring that every traveler gets an unforgettable, personalized experience. Zicasso’s in-country specialists are proud to create one-of-a-kind adventures that are tailored to the tastes and interests of discerning travelers who crave both luxury and authenticity. 

Featured image photo credit:Vyacheslav Argenberg

What’s New and Happening in Chicago – Fall/Winter 2024

Chicago Neighborhoods, Chicago restaurants, Chicago River, Chicagoland Area, Gourmet, Holiday, Holiday dining, Holiday events, Holiday Travel, Hotels, Uncategorized

Following a banner summer for Chicago’s tourism, hospitality, and events community, the city was honored to be voted the “Best Big City in the U.S.” by Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers Choice Award 2024 for a historic eighth consecutive year!

Anchored by the Democratic National Convention (DNC) and other major conventions, as well as events like Lollapalooza and the NASCAR street race, visitors to Chicago filled up a total of 3.4 million hotel room nights over the summer months (June, July, and August 2024) and drove all-time records in summer hotel revenue ($942 million USD). Summer season also welcomed over 671,000 international visitors to Chicago. Looking ahead, Chicago is gearing up for a busy end of 2024, with major events like the launch of Theatre Season, Christkindlmarket, the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and more set to attract visitors from near and far. Visit ChooseChicago.com for more information and travel inspiration.

Recent Accolades:

  • Chicago was honored to be voted the “Best Big City in the U.S.” by Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers Choice Award 2024 for a historic eighth consecutive year. (Over 575,000 discerning and well-traveled readers participated in this prestigious survey!)
  • The New York Times named Asador Bastian, the only Illinois restaurant, one of the 50 Best Restaurants in the country this year.
  • Three restaurants were added to the MICHELIN Guide Chicago in September 2024, showcasing diverse and exciting culinary experiences across the city.
  • Global Traveler Magazine named O’Hare International Airport Best Airport in North America for the 20th consecutive year.
  • OAG ranked Chicago O’Hare International Airport at #13 in categories for Best Airport

Dining, Best Airport Shopping, and Best Large Airport overall.

To read more about Chicago in the news, click here.

Winter/Holiday Hotel Offerings:

Beginning November 23, 2024, the Twelve Ways of Festive returns to Four Seasons Hotel Chicago with themed activations and delightful surprises to capture the whimsy of the holiday season. Over six weeks, guests can expect merry moments from tasty chef-created treats and a speakeasy to family-oriented crafts and cookie decorating in the vibrant social spaces.

NoMI at Park Hyatt Chicago will host multiple events throughout the holiday season.

  • Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Viewing Party (November 23, 2024) – Experience the 33rd Annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival like never before at NoMI. Enjoy lavish food stations, festive activities for the kids, and unlimited trips to the hot chocolate buffet. As the parade begins, enjoy front-row, standing-room views of the Lights Festival parade from our prime vantage point.
  • NoMI Lounge’s Hot Chocolate Experience (November 23, 2024 – January 1, 2025) – Launching just in time for the Lights Festival, pour yourself a cup of rich Valrhona hot chocolate, then indulge in a buffet of housemade toppings from NoMI’s pastry team. For a grown-up twist, choose from a selection of spirits to “spike” your creation.
  • Thanksgiving Feast (November 28, 2024) – Join us for a memorable Thanksgiving with a modern twist on traditional flavors. Executive Chef Terence Zubieta will present a 4-course prix-fixe menu featuring truffle-sage brined turkey with herb and brown butter cornbread stuffing, citrus-spiced cranberry sauce, and pommes purée. Indulge in NoMI’s decadent dessert buffet, including our signature salted caramel apple tarts, while enjoying stunning views of the Magnificent Mile from our floor-to-ceiling windows.
  • Cookies & Wishes: A Santa Workshop (December 7, 2024) – Join us for a magical, one-day-only holiday celebration at NoMI Lounge, where festive fun comes to life for the whole family. Take photos with Santa, decorate cookies, craft letters to Santa, and enjoy endless hot chocolate. To our adult guests, feel free to create letters to take home to your friends and family instead!
  • Christmas Eve Dinner and Christmas Day Brunch (December 24-25, 2024) – Celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day overlooking the twinkling lights of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile. Enjoy a 4-course prix fixe menu curated by Executive Chef Terence Zubieta, starting with hearty appetizers like pomme dauphines with truffle crème, followed by entrées like Chilean sea bass with littleneck clams, king oyster mushroom, and a creamy white wine and passionfruit broth. Conclude your festive evening with a luxe dessert buffet featuring holiday favorites like bûche de noël.
  • New Year’s Eve Soirée (December 31, 2024) – Slip into your finest cocktail attire and join us for Park Hyatt Chicago’s Annual New Year’s Eve Soirée – a night of pure opulence at NoMI Kitchen! Start your evening with an exquisite dinner and raw bar, before dancing the night away to live music and a champagne toast at midnight.

Staypineapple Chicago has new offerings for the fall and winter seasons:

  • Thanksgiving Parade View Room Package: Staypineapple Chicago is offering guests the chance to experience the magic of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade like never before with its exclusive room package that includes a spectacular view of the parade right from their windows as it winds through the city. Guests who stay at this historic gem housed in a National Historic Landmark building from 1895 and book this package will receive complimentary gourmet popcorn and delicious hot chocolate to enjoy while watching the parade overhead from the comfort of their room. This unique experience combining history, charm, and holiday joy will create a Thanksgiving to remember for guests who choose Staypineapple Chicago for their festive winter getaway.
  • Theater Season Prix Fixe Menu: Atwood, a premier dining establishment located in Staypineapple Chicago, is offering a special prix fixe menu to celebrate the vibrant theater season inspired by the rich artistic heritage of the city. Just steps away from renowned venues like the Chicago Theatre, Goodman Theatre, and Cadillac Palace Theatre, Atwood invites patrons to indulge in a curated selection of dishes that pay homage to the flavors of Chicago. This exclusive menu features seasonal ingredients to create unique course options such as roasted bone marrow with apple butter mostarda, shrimp in brown butter caper sauce, and pumpkin risotto with pepitas, providing the perfect pre-theater dining experience that sets the stage for an unforgettable evening in the city.

Enjoy the holiday magic of Chicago’s Gold Coast with the Winter Wonderland Suite package at One MICHELIN Key hotel Viceroy Chicago. The festive offer includes accommodations in a one bedroom lakeview suite decorated for the holidays, curated amenities, a hot chocolate kit, cookie plate, holiday ornaments and mugs, plus a holiday coloring book and cookie decorating kit for children. This offer is valid on stays from December 1-25, 2024.

Food and Libations:

James Beard award-winning Chef Johnny Clark will open Anelya in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood on October 24. The restaurant is the most personal project Clark has launched, with the name and background of the restaurant derived from his grandmother, Anelya, and it serves as her 100th birthday gift. A major focus on the culinary program from Clark will be fermentation and seasonal preservations. Chef Clark’s main menu will feature creative takes on staple dishes like Varenyky, which are similar to pierogis or ravioli, with fillings like pumpkin and farmers cheese, or even seasonal fruits like cherries as a sweet and savory application. Anelya will also offer modern takes on dishes like Holubtsi, or stuffed cabbage with sturgeon and buckwheat with caviar and sherry cream sauce. (Neighborhood: Avondale)

The Chicago City Council has approved a lease agreement to bring the flavors of a popular South Side eatery to O’Hare’s expanded and renovated Terminal 5. Bronzeville Bites will feature a signature bar with small plates modeled after Bronzeville Winery in the namesake neighborhood. 

Cantina Rosa, a Mexican bar concept from Chef Erick Williams and Jesus Garcia, will open this fall. The menu will feature an expansive Mezcal and tequila program, Mexican-inspired bar bites, and a chic atmosphere with installations from local artists, spacious tables, and cozy seating. (Neighborhood: Hyde Park)

Cebu Chicago is a modern Filipino restaurant that aims to not only highlight Filipino cuisine in Chicago, but also represents Filipino culture in the USA. As a family-owned business, its mission is to showcase the richness of Filipino culinary traditions and create a welcoming environment for people to enjoy the experience. Part cafe and diner, guests will find ube waffles topped with fried chicken and a breakfast sandwich with a purple bun, hash brown medallion, and a chorizo patty. (Neighborhood: Lakeview)

The Dip Inn is an American cocktail bar coming to River North’s vibrant culinary scene in late 2024. The eatery’s drink menu will feature beverage mainstays helmed by Kevin Beary, partner and award-winning beverage director of Lettuce Entertain You’s Three Dots and a Dash and The Bamboo Room. (Neighborhood: River North)

Ēma, the Mediterranean restaurant from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, opened its second location in the Glenview neighborhood. Ēma Glenview’s menu, created by chef-partner CJ Jacobson, menu features a selection of mezze, and Mediterranean small plates, with an emphasis on Hummus & Spreads, Raw, Vegetable and Kebabs. Signature dishes include Moroccan Onion Dip, Tahini Caesar Salad, Octopus Carpaccio, and Spicy Brisket Kefta Kebab. (Neighborhood: Glenview)

il Carciofo, the newest restaurant from celebrity Chef Joe Flamm, will open in late fall 2024. Guests can enjoy a seasonal menu of elevated Italian favorites, including prosciutto di parma, crispy carciofo and suppli con ragu antipasti, Roman-style pizzas from a custom wood stone oven, traditional hand-rolled pasta, market-driven main courses and house-spun gelatis and sorbettis, maritozzi and zabaglione for dessert. (Neighborhood: Fulton Market)

KOVAL Distillery will debut its new luxury line, Thresh & Winnow, with a limited edition Gold Medal-winning 10-Year-Old Rye Whiskey and a Best in Class and Double Gold medal-winning Single Malt Whiskey. The distillery’s tasting room will introduce new cocktails in the fall, and its tasting room calendar includes exciting cocktail classes, tours, magic, and more.

La Grande Boucherie is thrilled to announce the appointment of Chef Michael Taus as the new Executive Chef. With over three decades of culinary excellence, Chef Taus brings a wealth of experience and a passion for classic and innovative cuisine. His arrival marks an exciting new chapter for La Grande Boucherie as the team continues to elevate the dining experience with his creative vision and mastery of French-inspired cuisine in a classic steakhouse setting at an excellent value for the price point. La Grande Boucherie and Chef Taus are excited to bring a fresh take on the classic steakhouse experience, blending Midwestern charm with French traditions. Known for its expertly crafted cuts of prime steaks and an offering that balances accessibility with quality, La Grande Boucherie offers something for every steak lover and will expand their steakhouse offerings under Chef Taus’ leadership. Whether guests are savoring a perfectly cooked ribeye or indulging in one of the signature French-inspired dishes, Chef Taus promises an unforgettable dining experience that’s refined yet approachable. With a focus on quality and hospitality, La Grande Boucherie is redefining what it means to dine at a steakhouse in the heart of Chicago.

Nora Restaurant & Bar, a culinary gem that opened this year in Chicago, is excited to announce the arrival of its new Executive Chef, Daniele Sotgiu. With his extensive experience and passion for Mediterranean cuisine, Chef Sotgiu is set to elevate the dining experience at Nora with a unique blend of flavors inspired by his Sardinian roots. Under Chef Sotgiu’s direction, Nora plans to launch new menu items that promise to be a delectable feast for the senses. Guests can look forward to signature dishes such as the boneless branzino served with persillade sauce and vegetable caponatina, the bone-in saffron lamb shank that’s marinated overnight, as well as a rotating selection of homemade pastas. The menu will continue to highlight healthy, vibrant dishes, staying true to Mediterranean culinary culture. Chef Sotgiu emphasizes the importance of seasonal ingredients, planning to update the menu seasonally to incorporate the freshest ingredients available. The new menu aims to offer something new and unique that diners won’t find anywhere else.

Petit Pomeroy is now open in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. The sister restaurant to Winnetka’s Pomeroy serves a curated selection of bistro favorites alongside kind, impeccable service. It is a special place where everything looks beautiful and everyone feels comfortable. To dine with friends or drink with colleagues is to enjoy a taste of what makes Paris neighborhoods so special: the charming bistros. And those views—both inside and out—ils sont magnifiques! (Neighborhood: River North)

Pitaki, a quick-service dining spot specializing in Greek street food, is coming to Fulton Market this fall. Avli’s new sister restaurant Pitaki is bringing the rich flavors and vibrant traditions of Greek street food with pita wraps, bowls, savory Greek pies, salads, and desserts. Open for both lunch and dinner, the restaurant concept will feature a convenient counter for walk-up service, along with limited in-house seating and a catering program. (Neighborhood: Fulton Market)

New York pizzeria Prince Street Pizza will arrive in Chicago this fall on Randolph Street’s “Restaurant Row.” Offering square, Sicilian-style slices and original Neapolitan pizzas prepared daily from scratch, diners will get their pick of popular combos like “The Spicy Vodka” with fresh mozzarella, spicy vodka sauce, and pecorino romano and the “Green Machine” with nut-free pesto, shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and black olives, alongside Chicago-exclusive offerings.

Executive Chef Pablo Mexqutitla welcomes fall with a Tortoise Supper Club tradition – The Pheasant Pie – available beginning October 1, 2024. Settle into the authentic Chicago Supper Club experience at Tortoise Supper Club with fresh, from scratch menu including prime rib, prime steaks, and fresh seafood in a swanky jazz-era atmosphere with live jazz on Fridays and Saturdays in the heart of Downtown Chicago showcasing the Pheasant Pie during the month of October. (Neighborhood: River North)

Ghouls Just Want to Have Fun and Bowling Green, KY, Knows How to Scare It Up

Adventure, Artisan beer, Bowling Green, Chocolate, Events, Family Excursions, Halloween, Holiday events

 For the month of October, you might as well start calling Kentucky’s third-largest city “Boo-ling Green,” because this is a destination that truly gets goosebumps when it sees October 31 approach on the calendar. That makes perfect sense, considering that Bowling Green is the hometown of filmmaker John Carpenter, who created classic horror flicks like “Halloween.”

It’s not all about gore and goblins, mayhem and monsters, though. There are plenty of family-friendly ways to celebrate all the things that go bump in the night. And around here, the creatures that get the most seasonal attention aren’t bats … they’re the rare white squirrels that populate the city. The rodents, which are particularly active now because they’re stocking up on snacks for the winter, look like tiny ghosts already jittery from the trick-or-treating sugar rush.

Here are all the ways you can get into the Halloween spirit in Bowling Green:

JOHN CARPENTER EXPERIENCE

John Carpenter, a filmmaker and composer who grew up in Bowling Green, is widely considered one of the masters of the horror-film genre. His most notable films include “Halloween,” “The Fog,” “The Thing,” “Christine,” “They Live” and “Village of the Damned.” Though he was born in New York state, Carpenter moved to Bowling Green when he was just 5 years old. He became obsessed with cinema shortly thereafter, and he made his first short horror film before he entered high school. Carpenter began college at Western Kentucky University, where his father chaired the music department, then left to pursue his career in California. Though none of his films were shot in his hometown, the people and places around Bowling Green remained influential to his filmmaking.

Fans of his films may already feel like they know sites around the city, though those places are a lot less creepy in broad daylight and without the foreboding music. (Fun fact: Carpenter wrote his own scores.) Horror fans can pick up a brochure called the Reel Sites, Real Scary Driving Tour at the visitor center (or download your own PDF here) and take a self-guided trip to 17 spots that were meaningful or inspirational to Carpenter or mentioned in his movies.

ATTRACTIONS

Skeleton’s Lair Scream Park: Open on weekends through early November, this popular attraction is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The park is located – appropriately enough – on Cemetery Road and features haunted woods, a haunted hayride, a two-story haunted house and a 3D haunted maze. It’s staffed by live actors but also offers plenty of pyrotechnics and special effects, all adding to the fear factor.

Lost River Cave: This attraction offers a glimpse into the darker side of Bowling Green … because it’s one of Kentucky’s famous caves, and the only one that’s explored by boat. Though tours take place year-round, at this time of year you can participate in a special nighttime tour called “Lost Tales of the Underground,” on which guides blend history and fun as they share the cave’s ghost stories. The tour takes place nightly from October 21 through 31 and costs $35 per person. Even if you’re afraid of the dark, you can still explore the exterior of the cave, walking along the Scarecrow Trail and voting for your favorite of the scarecrows that have been crafted by members of the community. They come in all shapes and sizes and can be viewed from dawn to dusk each day through October 27. There’s no admission fee for that family-friendly experience.

HAUNTED SITES

Old Richardsville Road Bridge: Located just off Highway 185, the bridge dates to the late 1800s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also on locals’ list of Most Haunted Places. As the story goes, a young woman either jumped off, drove off or was pushed off the bridge – that part of the tale is unclear – and died at the site. It’s said that if you drive onto the bridge at night and shift your car into neutral, some unseen force will push your vehicle to the other side of the bridge.

Local legend claims it’s the young woman, trying to safely escort travelers across so they don’t suffer the same fate that she did. Many brave souls have tested the theory over the years, and some have even sprinkled baby powder on their bumper before driving onto the bridge. They report seeing a handprint in the powder when they reach the other side.

TOURS

Hilltop History and Haunts Tour: This 90-minute walking tour explores the campus of Western Kentucky University, which is situated on “The Hilltop.” The university has such a reputation for ghostly encounters that it has been featured on the television show “Ghost Hunters.” The tour is led by former WKU professor Dr. Tamela W. Smith, who describes a variety of mysterious phenomena, focusing not only on the university but also the history of “The Hill” and what may have happened there to result in all the spiritual activity. The tour is intended for guests ages 16 and older and is offered on Friday, Saturday and Monday nights at 8 p.m. A special Halloween version that includes the opportunity to use paranormal investigation equipment is scheduled for at 11 p.m. on October 31. As an added bonus, WKU is a great place to see those aforementioned white squirrels.

UnSeen Bowling Green Tours: This company focuses on the city’s histories, mysteries, scandals and ghost stories, and is offering three fall-themed tours that run throughout the month of October. The “Murders and Misdemeanors” walking tour focuses on Bowling Green’s dark side and reveals a variety of bone-chilling tales. Tickets are $24 per person.

DINING

Bowling Green’s chefs and bartenders have been busy at their bubbling cauldrons, creating all kinds of eats, sweets and liquid treats to soothe the howling in your stomach. Some lean into the creep factor, and others are simply celebrating fall.

For example, at Rafferty’s restaurant you can order a slab of sweet potato pie that’s heavy on the butter, brown sugar and pecans. And though you might think that makes it a dessert, they serve it as a side dish! At Mary Jane’s Chocolates in the town square, they’re coating crisp, tart Granny Smiths in sweet and sticky caramel and hoping that a tricked-out apple a day does indeed keep the doctor away.

Over at Lost River Pizza Co., though, their Killer Garlic Knots are brushed with enough garlic butter to keep away all the vampires.

Speaking of Dracula and his buddies, at Toro, the mad scientists behind the bar are busy concocting El Vampiro, a decidedly devilish drink made with tequila, orange liqueur, blackberry puree, honey-infused simple syrup, lemon juice and black salt.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Boos & Brews at The Capitol: You missed it this year, but note it for the future: If you’re interested in a big-screen scream, The Capitol performing arts center provided the perfect venue to watch a double feature of John Carpenter’s “Halloween” and “Halloween II” last Friday night. White Squirrel Brewery (yes, even businesses around here are obsessed with the little spectral creatures) served some of its beer, and we hear that the audience members tried their best not to spill any when they jumped out of their seats. And … the theater itself is reported to be haunted, with plenty of stories of ghostly footsteps and apparitions to keep your spine tingling.

Downtown BGKY Harvest Festival: This free, family-friendly event will be held on Saturday, October 19 in the heart of downtown Bowling Green. In addition to kid’s activities, live music, craft vendors, and food trucks, the event is home to Downtown BGKY’s annual “pumpkin drops.” There are no tricks but plenty of treats at this fall-themed, scare-free street festival.

Boogeyman Ball: On October 26, White Squirrel will open its downtown brewery for a costume party and contest that features live (not dead) music and some wicked cocktails. There’s a $20 cover charge for the event, which runs from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. 

Back to the Island: Exploring Curacao

Beaches, Caribbean, Curacao, Elegant dining, Family Excursions, Historic foodways, Ocean, Resorts, Uncategorized, Willemstad

The charms of Dutch Colonial Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its rainbow palette of gabled buildings accented with louvered shutters and white gingerbread trim, never lose their appeal. The winding cobblestone streets and alleyways of this 17th century city, located on Santa Anna Bay, are crowded with art galleries, restaurants, shops, and little plazas shaded by acacia trees. Enjoy a Blue Lagoon (frozen pineapple juice, rum, Blue Curacao, and coconut) at the Iguana Café while watching the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge swing open and close letting walkers cross between Punda and Otrobanda districts of the city.

Stroll to the Floating Market, a Curacao tradition where boats from Venezuela, 38 miles away, tie up in early morning along the quay, displaying their wares of brilliantly colored fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers, mounds of glistening fish and such Caribbean specialties as tamarind candies and sugar cane. Take in the smells – and if you’re hungry – the tastes — of the foods cooked by vendors along the docks. Pause in Jo Jo Correa, a lovely plaza just across the street where artisans sell their wares.

But no matter the allures of Willemstad, there is more to Curacao than just this jewel of a Caribbean city. Stretch out in the sun on one of the island’s 38 pristine beaches. Don snorkels or dive suits and explore the myriads of dive spots including the 12.5-mile National Curacao Underwater Park and such favorite sites as the sunken Tugboat, the Mushroom Forest, considered a top dive because of its coral formations and even the remains of a wrecked plane.

Hop on a charter boat or rent a catamaran and sail through turquoise waters. Swim with the dolphins at the Dolphin Academy and visit the Curacao Sea Aquarium where, if you’re feeling very brave, there’s snorkeling with sharks and sting rays.   

Dolphin encounters at the Dolphin Academy.

Head west to Christoffel Park, traveling along the coastline through the wild and rugged outcroppings of rock where delicate orchids peek from tiny crevices and flowering cacti and twisted divi divi trees are part of the arid landscape known as kunuku.

Pelikaan Casino, Breedestraat, Willemstad

Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a big life changing event or recovering from an illness, many islanders prove to themselves and the world that they are back in the game by trekking to the top of Curacao’s highest point, the 1237-foot Cristoffel Mountain.  But you don’t need a reason to enjoy the climb or the park’s wild life such as blue iguana (get over it, they’re all over the island), the rare Curacao white tailed deer said to have been imported from South American some 500 years ago, brightly colored birds and even an occasional donkey or two. 

Floating Market in Willemstad.

Not up for a mountain climb? You can also tour the park on horseback (even night riding is an option), rent a mountain bike or take a Jeep tour. The park is also crisscrossed with hiking trails geared towards all abilities from the challenging Orchid Route to an easy meander that leads to the magnificent Landhuis Savonet. At one point in time, Savonet and Plantation Zorgvlied, covered almost 4000 acres of the land

Built in 1662, burned by the British almost 150 years later and then rebuilt shortly after, Landhuis Savonet is one of the oldest of Curacao’s 55 remaining landhuizen or plantation houses. Situated at the park’s entrance, the fabulously restored landhuis now houses the Museum of Natural and Cultural History known for its state-of-the-art exhibits.

Jaanchie’s in Westpunt is the oldest restaurant on the island and is still family owned.

Head to the charming village of Westpunt nestled atop a ridge at the western point of the island. Try the fried iguana – an island specialty–at Jaanchies in Westpunt. The third-generation family run business, the oldest on the island, opened in 1936.

Or order pizza fired in a wood burning stove using island woods and topped with locally sourced toppings or grilled tuna with mango salsa at Sol Food and enjoy the ocean view. For those wanting to spend the night, the 1800-square-foot apartment has three bedrooms and is a terrific way to get away from it all.

Check out two unique Westpunt’s beaches–Playa Santu Pretu and Playa Forti tucked away in secluded coves and famed for their black sand made from surf pounded volcanic beach stone.

And remember, there’s never enough time to do it all in Curacao so plan on coming back soon.

For more information, visit curacao.com

Top photo shows Curacao at night and was taken by Klaus Jessen.