For the early-morn munchers

If you were wondering what happened to John Bubula (former chef/owner of Thyme, Sinibar Cafe, Timo), Hungrymag's got the deets right here, as writer Michael Nagrant interviews him as well as other local culinary kings on what breakfast will be like in the future.

Think "French toast with a shell of maple-syrup sugar skewered on cinnamon stick," lobster quesadillas or a tricked-out version of "steak and eggs."

Yesssssssssssssssss!

Top Chef's Stephanie Izard 'does' Playboy

(Photo: Chuck Hodes for Bravo)


Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard reveals to Playboy how a man can win a woman's heart through cooking.

What were you thinking?!

First Bite at P&P BBQ Soul Food

This mound of "smoky and chewy" rib tips at P&P BBQ Soul Food is not to be missed. (Photo: Chicago Tribune)


The Stew really liked the rib tips, peach cobbler and more at Humboldt Park newcomer P&P BBQ Soul Food.

Top it Off Tuesdays and more

Participants can win free gas for a year every week during "Top it Off Tuesdays" at 10pin Bowling Lounge. (Photo: 10pin Bowling Lounge)


You made it through the rough night, now it's time to get out again:

If the weather manages to hold up, the Celebrity Chef Ball Committee and Associate Board for Meals on Wheels Chicago host a kick-off party on the rooftop of Citizen Bar (Party takes place inside in case of rain). Guests will enjoy grilled creations from local chefs Rick DeLeon (Fulton's on the River), Mark Mendez (Carnivale) and Eric Smith (Citizen). Those delights will be paired with each chef's VeeV Acai specialty cocktail. It's also a chance to purchase tickets to the Celebrity Chef Ball, which occurs on Oct. 17, for a discounted $100. 6-9pm. $15 donation benefits Meals on Wheels Chicago.

Gas prices may have gone down a teensy bit, but you know that's still crazy as hell. In order to ease stress, 10pin Bowling Lounge throws Top it Off Tuesdays each week, offering participants the opportunity to win a $100 gas card or free gas for a year. In addition, guests get free shoe rental, a complimentary happy hour buffet (4-6pm), and $3.50 UV vodka cocktails and $3 Miller Lite bottles. No cover.

Cellar Notes continues at NoMI with Advanced Sommelier Fernando Beteta guiding guests through a tasting of different wines or spirits each week. This time he's focusing on Small Batch Wines of the Pacific Northwest for this open-house style event. 5:30-7:30pm. $30.

Effen Tuesdays' Industry Night happens every week at new West Town hot spot Cat's Meow. Deals include $3 mini burgers, $2 "we call it" beer specials and $5 Effen drinks. DJ Hiroki spins. No cover.