First-ever Kids Restaurant Week arrives

Earlier this year, Chicago finally got an official Restaurant Week, now for those with mini me's, Gapers Block reports on the city's first-ever Kids' Restaurant Week happening at favorites like Blue Water Grill, Ina's and Otom.

It kicks off this weekend at Green City Market.

Photo op with a politico

Jesse Jackson showed up to the NABJ party at Texas de Brazil and pressed flesh with restaurant GM Vincent Feola.


Somehow I missed out on a hot party hosted by my colleagues from the National Association of Black Journalists—Chicago Chapter last night at Texas de Brazil.

Political activist Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. was one of the special guests, and signed the first Serras de Azeitao, Texas de Brazil's 2006 signature white wine.

What's Good all over the 'hoods this weekend . . .

Rising movie star Meagan Good, who's in "The Love Guru," makes an appearance at Lumen tonight.


From diamonds to divas to high-end drinks, here's your weekend guide:

THURSDAY

Today's The Love Day at Cartier, with a new jewelry collection launching with a host of celebrity ambassadors. Chicago's own Common, plus Janet Jackson, Eve, Fergie, Hilary Duff, Emmy Rossum and others serve as special ambassadors for an 18K white gold miniature bracelet intertwined with an 18K pink gold miniature bracelet (A playlist featuring each new Love Charity ambassador's favorite love song is available for free download at here). The celebration happens from noon to 6pm, with DJ Mano spinning and complimentary bubbly. 630 N. Michigan Ave., 312-266-7440.

US Weekly hosts the Hot Hollywood Party at Lumen, with "The Love Guru" star Meagan Good as special guest. Event includes comp cocktails, appetizers, gift bags and beauty stations. 8-11pm. RSVP to usrsvp@usmagazine.com for admission.

Hip, contemporary eatery Perennial, owned by Kevin Boehm and Rob Katz (Boka, Landmark), opens today in Lincoln Park.

Has NV Penthouse Lounge lost its &^%$#@!($#@! mind?! Tonight they're unveiling the $2,500 Envy Martini—which consists of Belvedere vodka, Midori melon liquor, Dom Perignon champagne and fresh garnishes. It comes with a 2.3 carat pear shaped emerald pendant provided by Jewel Star Chicago and a handcrafted sterling silver engraved monogram martini pic. 9pm-2am. No cover.

If you're not willing to grill out yourself, head to one sixtyblue for BARBQ, executive chef Martial Noguier’s signature twist on a summertime tradition. Guests may enjoy such selections as Swan Creek Farm suckling pig accompanied by home-style sweet potato chips and Swan Creek Farm chicken wing lollipops. Guests may complement dinner with refreshing summer drinks like the Cabo San Loco (Absolut Peppar, pineapple, lime juice, cilantro) or South by Southwest (Stoli Orange, Southern Comfort, prickly pear puree and soda). It's available at the bar Monday-Friday.

FRIDAY

The Taste of Randolph kicks off today along the Randolph Street corridor, between Peoria Street and Racine Avenue. Participating restaurants include de cero, La Sardine, Macello, Marche, Red Light, Veerasway and Vivo, with live music, booths and more. The highlight of the weekend should be the chef cooking demonstrations, which take place 2:30-6:30pm Saturday and Sunday with hosts Steve Dolinsky and LeeAnn Trotter. You'll get to check out the area's hottest chefs like Jennifer Brooks (de cero), Tyler Williams (Veerasway), Matt Tobin (Marche) and Jackie Shen (Red Light). 5-11pm Friday; 2-11pm Saturday; 2-10pm Sunday. $10 suggested donation goes towards the West Loop Community Organization.

The Business Networking Expo at Enclave offers local professionals the opportunity to learn more about sustainability and the environment. Network with like-minded folks from all industries and enjoy comp appetizers and specialty cocktails. 6-9pm. $15 in advance; $25 at door.

SATURDAY

Cocktail connoisseurs should love the Summer Flavors Cocktail Clinic at WAVE restaurant. Head bartender Kevin Wonder will show guests how to make perfect summer cocktails, from infused vodkas and simple syrups made with local, seasonal ingredients to frozen Bloody Marys and margaritas. An interactive bar will be outfitted with all the bells and whistles. Guests will also get to enjoy signature bites from executive chef Kristine Subido and a parting gift. 2:30-4:30pm. $50.

SUNDAY

SummerFest happens at Erie Park (Erie and Kingsbury streets). The day-long event features restaurants, art, retail and entertainment with more than 50 area businesses showcasing their goodies, including Melting Pot, Rockit Bar & Grill, Redhead Piano Bar and Zocalo. 11am-7pm. $5 donation benefits the River North Residents Association.

And it's time for Sunday Night Service at Jbar. This insider's affair has been going strong for a few months now. DJ Madrid and Funky Couture are the featured spin stars, and of course you'll get drink specials: $5 P.I.N.K. vodka cocktails and $4 imported beer. 10-2am. Free.