Deal of the day . . .

I'm so freaking over this cold weather, and you probably are too. So let's jet off to South America—like tonight.

OK, seriously, the closest thing to that we'll be able to do tonight are these events right here:

Chicago Restaurant Week, where several Latin-spiced restaurants are participating, including Brazzaz (539 N. Dearborn St., 312-595-9000), Carnivale (702 W. Fulton Market, 312-850-5005) and Sushi Samba rio (504 N. Wells St., 312 595-2300) with three-course, prix-fixe dinners for $31.95 until Feb. 29.

Coobah (3423 N. Southport Ave., 773-528-2220) for $6 pitchers of sangria. That's right. Every Tuesday, they're offering the deal, which is usually $18 a pitcher. Coobah's sangria is a secret recipe from the Dominican Republic topped with fresh cut fruit.

Nacional 27 (325 W. Huron St., 312-664-2727) for Tapas Tuesdays, where every week the Latin-focused eatery features a special tapas tasting for $8.95 per person. Executive Chef Randy Zweiban sends out his favorites while the Dave Hiltebrand Trio pumps out sultry South American jazz.

NoMI's (800 N. Michigan Ave., 312-239-4030) Cellar Notes event on the seventh floor. Advanced Sommelier Fernando Beteta hosts an Argentinean wine tasting that's paired with cheese and fruit. It's open house style and runs from 5:30-7:30pm. $30.

Whole Foods Market (3300 N. Ashland Ave., 773-244-4200) for A Taste of South America. Husband-and-wife team Sam and Sunny McDaniel pairs artisanal cheeses with their hand-picked selections from various regions in South America. 7-9pm. $10 includes the wine, cheese and informational materials.