Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Ho, Ho Holidays!

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Christmas is here! And whether you're doing it up with family or friends (or both!), don't make a move this weekend until you read this list:

XMAS EVE

It's so effing cold outside, so if you're one of those last-minute shoppers along the Mag Mile, make sure you stumble into Bistro 110 for Bistro & Bubbles. Happening through Dec. 30, the dealio is two Moët & Chandon champagne and food pairings. Choose from a glass of Moët White Star paired with truffle oil Parmesan french fries ($11) or a glass of Moët Rosé Impérial paired with smoked salmon pizza ($15). 5-7pm.

Make your way to the West Loop for a complimentary wine tasting event at the Just Grapes wine shop, where you'll get to sample a number of wines that'll pair well with your holiday dinner. You'll also get to indulge in various dessert vino. Noon-6pm.

Young Jewish professionals should turn out strong for the second-annual Juju Ball, happening at Martini Park. Get there early for the open bar (8:30-9:30pm), then dance to live music and flirt it up with a crowd expecting to surpass 700 guests. 8:30pm-2am. $25 at door.

If you're in the mood for a more neighborhood vibe, head to Wrigleyville for the Wednesday night specials at Risque Café. Get ready to load up on the bottomless bowl of mac 'n' cheese ($6) and $2 PBR tall boys as you nod your head to music from local bands. 8pm-2am. No cover.

XMAS

Butch McGuire's is the ultimate holiday bar destination and tonight's a biggie for those needing to get away from those nagging relatives. After 11pm, expect this long-time singles scene to be jam-packed with all types of folks blowing off steam. Closes at 4am. No cover.

No dinner plans?! No problem. New Café des Architectes Executive Chef Martial Noguier has whipped up a four-course menu filled with hearty dishes like homemade potato gnocchi, beef tenderloin, and Bûche de Noël (white chocolate rum ice cream, Amarena cherry parfait, bittersweet chocolate cake) for dessert. That's $72 per person. 3-11pm.

Farmerie 58, the hot new market-fresh restaurant on two levels, offers a more budget-conscious, four-course meal for $45 a person. The mustard-brined stuffed pork chop, wild mushroom-and-roasted chestnut soup, and pecan-crusted pumpkin pie with bourbon whip are just some of the highlights.

House music legend Lil Louis ("French Kiss") brings The Love Tour to Crobar, cranking out sexy body and soul sounds. You'll also get a copy of his book and double CD, Two Sides to Every Story. 10pm-4am. $25.


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Grammy nominated R&B artist Chrisette Michelle celebrates her birthday at Flirty Fitness on Friday.


FRIDAY

She's up for a Grammy in February, plus she's celebrating her birthday. Sultry R&B songstress Chrisette Michelle will be in the house for a holiday bash certain to be the talk of the town. No discounted drinks, but if you email RSVP@SLDMarketingGroup.net, they'll knock off a few $$ on your admission. Hopefully she'll perform! Flirty Girl Fitness (1325 W. Randolph St.) 9pm-2am.

SATURDAY

Another celeb appearance is on tap when T-Pain hits Bon V after his concert. The hip-hop star is spinning, with opening sets by DJ Pullano and Skylar. All you have to do to gain free admission is say "VibeIsRight" before 11pm. After party happens at Rednofive. 9pm-2am.

SUNDAY

And get an early start on your New Year's Eve festivities at Taste Food & Wine, which is hosting a Champagne & Bubbly Tasting. You'll get to pair them with Debbie's homemade chocolates. Mmmm-hmmm. 3-6pm. $20 in advance; $25 at door.

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