Mirella’s Tavern in Wicker Park pays homage to its namesake, Mirella Franco, a member of the community whose legacy lives on through this neighborhood establishment. Owner and operator, Chef José Rivera’s journey from humble beginnings to the corner tavern is a story of passion, innovation, and dedication to creating unique dining experiences. His menu celebrates the rich tapestry of American cuisine with a global twist.   From upscale bar food like Duck Confit Quesadillas and juicy burgers, to elevated entrees such as Charbroiled Pork Chops and Pan-Seared Jumbo Scallops, e ..read more

There's a new tequila on the scene, courtesy of Chicago's very own, Lizzy Lopez. In 2016, after inheriting an agave farm in her family's native, Mexico, Lopez began cultivating her own blue weber agave and crafting what is now known as Tequila 1349. Read on to learn the meaning behind the name, how her tequila is unique in such a crowded category and Lizzy's favorite way to enjoy each expression.  CFM: Please tell us about yourself and what led to you starting Tequila 1349.    LL: The inspiration for Tequila 1349 began back in 2016 when I was given an acre of my f ..read more

With the 5th annual WineRival event happening in Chicago on October 15th, CFM recently took the opportunity to chat with creator of the wine extravaganza, Adam Sweders. Between raising his kids, planning and growing WineRival (now in several U.S. cities) and dreaming for a better future for Chicago's wine scene, Sweders graciously took the time to answer a few of our questions ahead of this year's event at Venue West!  This interview has been edited for clarity. CFM: Please tell our readers about yourself!   AS: I'm a 44-year-old, full-time sin ..read more

Many words can be used to describe the multi-dimensional Billy Dec: Chicago native. Entrepreneur. TV Star. Restaurant chef and owner of Sunda New Asian. However, this Filipino American Heritage Month, we highlight the work he has done for the Filipino American diaspora here in Chicago and beyond. A diaspora in which, he is proudly a part of. Through the exploration of his culture, cuisine and familial hospitality, Dec celebrates his heritage this month and every day, giving back to the community and championing the impact that the Southeast Asian country has had o ..read more

Calling all Union Station travelers, Loop office workers and any locals looking for a great meal for a weekday lunch, dinner or happy hour! Canal Street Eatery, located on the ground floor of the BMO Tower (314 S Canal), has a wide range of options for diners to customize their experience whether on a solo traveler venture, out with a coworker or a family-style affair. While the weather is still nice, be sure to take in the fresh air on their scenic patio while indulging in a few of the following rec ..read more

Strolling along the city's beautiful Riverwalk? Or taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling West Loop? Chances are you'll happen upon one of two Chicago locations of City Winery. The national brand with over a dozen locations across the U.S., acts as part restaurant, part winery and part live music and entertainment venue. Overseeing both Chicago locations is Tim Fink, a Midwest native who has worked in numerous notable kitchens throughout the city before settling in as Executive Chef. CFM recently chatted with Tim to find out what makes Chicago's duo ..read more

While the name Broken Shaker is not unique to the Chicago location of the Freehand portfolio of hotels, their food and beverage menu certainly is. Whether you are a Freehand guest or a local dropping in, the sultry lounge and hip staff will entice you to stay for a dangerous few rounds of strong cocktails. To make sure you aren’t drinking on an empty stomach, the culinary team has launched a new food menu of shareable snacks and filling mains. Check out what we recommend you have at the table and what you should imbibe.  Broken Shaker is known for their creative and oh-so-potent cock ..read more

While the weather still accommodates outdoor seating, some of the best people-watching happens from the sidewalk patio of Hoyt's American Tavern. After a recent Monday night al fresco dinner there, we caught up with Chef John Rudolph about why he loves helming the kitchen at the hotel restaurant and the dishes you should try during your visit.  CFM: Please tell us about yourself and what led to your position as Chef at Hoyt's American Tavern.  JR: I mainly grew up in the WNY region of New York and worked at a small family-owned restaurant for three years. I wanted to furthe ..read more

Around the corner from West Loop staple, Formento’s, sister concept Nonna’s whips out some of Chicago’s best sandwiches and behemoth slices of pizza to-go. Guests can enjoy people-watching on the tiny sidewalk patio or stroll through the neighborhood while noshing on the delicious Italian fare.   The small Italian eatery offers a lineup of pizzas available in New York or Sicilian styles. Grab a slice or whole Sicilian pie with just cheese or pepperoni toppings. Options open up a bit with the New York style also available by the slice or whole. Try it with Fennel Sausage, Peppero ..read more

Anyone that has driven through the chaos of the Kennedy in the downtown area has surely seen Carnivale's vibrant and colorful building just off the highway. Inside is an oasis that matches the exterior's eye-catching facade where Chef Carlos Garza helms the Latin-focused restaurant. With a focus on sourcing local produce from Chicago's Green City Market, Chef Garza emphasizes health and wellbeing in and out of the kitchen. CFM recently had a chance to interview the Chef who started, like many, as a dishwasher, discovering his love and passion for cooking.  *T ..read more