Hip raw cafe to give Karyn's a run for its money

(Photo: RawChef)


Chad Sarno—better known as the "RawChef"—is bringing his concept to Chicago this spring, giving local legendary raw foodie Karyn Calabrese of Karyn's Fresh Corner (1901 N. Halsted St., 312-255-1590) a run for her money.

For almost 10 years, his company Vital Creations has embraced its mission of "celebrating life through clean, simple and cruelty-free cuisine," and now they're setting up shop in the downtown area with Raw Desire Café, a new vegan/raw and take-away concept. Developing . . .

Gibson's heads South for the winter

Gibson's is known for its hearty portions of steaks and chops.
(Photo: Grassy Knoll Institute)


While Charlie Trotter gets ready to open his stunning, seafood-focused Las Vegas restaurant in early February, yet another high-profile Chicago original has announced an outpost in another major resort town.

Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse (1028 N. Rush St., 312-266-8999) has plans to open in South Beach in fall 2008 or early 2009—just in time for the hot winter season. So, if you're one of those who travels to Florida when it gets chilly in the Windy City, you'll finally be able to get some real, stick-to-your-ribs grub down there.