It's opening today! I swear no false alarms.
Rockstar Dogs (801 N. Ashland Ave., 312-421-2364)—the hyped-up hot dog joint with late-night hours, a stripper pole and sandwiches named after the likes of Kiss, Tommy Lee and Justin Timberlake—opens today. I peeked inside of it last night and this corner West Town joint is going to be sweet with cool music memorabilia on the walls.
Also, happening this weekend:
THURSDAY
Checked out Jesse de la Pena's set last week at JBar (610 N. Rush St., 312-660-7200). If you remember back in the day when he put Funky Buddha Lounge (728 W. Grand Ave., 312-666-1695) on the map, then you need to get here fast. This dope deejay spins an eclectic mix of stuff as a percussionist (or last week a saxophonist) plays. Another incentive to go are the $5 Stoli Elit cocktails! 9pm-2am. Free.
Is "Achy Breaky Heart" cool again now that Miley Cyrus is a big star? If you dig country jams, then head to Joe's (940 W. Weed St., 312-337-3486), where Billy Ray Cyrus will perform his top hits. 8pm. Tickets are free, but to get them you must listen to Drew Walker on US 99.5FM. (I cannot believe I am writing this!)
Speaking of getting a little bit country, Delilah's (2771 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-472-2771) is hosting Bourbon, Scotch and All Things Whisky tonight 6:30-9pm. Maker's Mark Master Distiller Dave Pickerell will lead the discussion that's followed by a tasting, appetizers and social event. $35.
The Make a Wish Foundation hosts a pre party for the 2008 Wish Ball at Rockit Bar and Grill (22 W. Hubbard St., 312-645-6000). The $35 ticket price gets you apps and Effen cocktails. 6-8pm.
If you ever wanted to impress your friends, sign up for the
Mojito 101 Class at Carnivale (702 W. Fulton St., 312-850-3017) tonight. Victor Baheza, Carnivale's expert mixologist, will lead this hands-on class featuring two different mouthwatering mojito recipes from the restaurant's signature drink menu. The mojitos will include a classic mojito and a raspberry mojito. Participants will learn the history of this classic Cuban cocktail, while creating and sampling perfectly muddled mojitos and appetizers by Executive Chef Mark Mendez. 6:30-8:30pm. $25.
FRIDAY
The Ministry of Burlesque happens at Soirée Bar & Bistro (2438 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-477-8880), with a night of indulging the forbidden Kübler Absinthe and a taste of Soirée’s delectable French hors d’oeuvres specials for half price. A Moulin Rouge-style dance performance will highlight the sensual energy as well as the scantily-clad cocktailers dressed as Kübler Absinthe fairies. 9pm-2am. Free.
A pre-St. Paddy's Day celebration takes place at Enclave (213 W. Institute Pl., 312-654-0234), with the second-annual St. Patrick's Eve party hosted by Immerman's Angels. The $30 cover includes cocktails and appetizers. Deejays and breakdancers perform, and 100 percent of the proceeds benefit Immerman's Angels, a cancer support group. Oh, and don't forget to wear green! 8-11pm.
SATURDAY
Another green-themed gig occurs at Lumen (839 W. Fulton Market, 312-733-2222), when DJ Hiroki spins. Get there early for free cocktails 9:30-10:30pm (must RSVP for that). 9pm-2am. $20.
Gibson's (1028 N. Rush St., 312-266-8999) is also getting into the spirit with an event benefiting the Misericordia Foundation. Guests are encouraged to wear green and donate $10 for an event that includes an Irish buffet, passed appetizers, drink specials, party favors and live music by the Shannon Rovers. 11am-5pm.
MONDAY
And tickets are still available for the third-annual World Festival, hosted by Common Threads. "Top Chef" host Padma Lakshmi is the honorary chair for the event, which includes high-profile local and national chefs. Look out for the likes of David Burke, Jimmy Bannos, Marcus Samuelsson, Gale Gand and Rocco DiSpirito to be serving their specialties. Also included in the $250 ticket are cocktails, bubbly, live music and more. 6-9pm at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E. Chicago Ave.). Call 312-752-2674 for tickets.