Thursday, January 22, 2009

At Last . . . props for S.Side dining

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Our new First Couple may be in D.C., but Park 52 on the South Side near their Chicago home keeps them close to heart with a new daily $44 four-course, prix-fixe menu.

The meal comes with a glass of wine, and entrees include blackened catfish, penne pasta with roasted almonds and butternut squash, and the First Lady's favorite dish—Michelle's Grilled Skirt Steak, which comes with hand-cut fries. And speaking of Ms. Obama, at the restaurant's entrance is an original limited edition print of the First Lady by local artist Mickalene Thomas.

Also happening this weekend:

THURSDAY

Another tribute to our new leader: The Presidential Pairing continues through tomorrow at wine and chocolate lounge Eno, with a glass of Graham Beck Brut (the Obama's fave sparkling wine) and a piece of Gail Ambrosius’ Dark Chocolate covered caramel topped with Fleur de Sel (The New York Times reported it's his fave). That's $15, but if you give the wine manager Obama's Secret Service code name, you'll get it for $10.

The best deal of the day is over at Lincoln Square delight Cafe Selmarie. For $20, you get three courses that includes their soup of the day, the choice between seafood, pasta or BBQ ribs, and a homestyle dessert from their irresistible bakery.

Former Sinibar owner Joe Russo makes a strong comeback with the debut of the Full Force Event Series at Sonotheque. The monthly event (every fourth Thursday) tonight gets the talents of NYC's Rich Medina, known best for his showstopping spoken word and deejay performances. Local homeboy Tone B Nimble also spins. 9pm-2am. $15.

People Lounge never skips a beat with its specials. Not only are they offering free live music from local rockers Stonelines, but also comped beer tastings by Magic Hat. Also, $4 Magic Hat drafts; $5 Bacardi O Bombs. 9pm-2am. No cover.

FRIDAY

Several notable openings include the second Terragusto in Lincoln Park; Faith & Whiskey, also in LP; Tocco in Wicker Park; and Bull & Bear in River North.

SATURDAY

It's all things Aussie at Sixteen, which celebrates the homeland of Executive Chef Frank Brunacci through Jan. 28. Tonight's Aussie Day, with a complimentary wine tasting followed by a special Australian-focused wine dinner with Master Sommelier Serafin Alvarado and Wine Director Steven Lee. Space limited to the first 16 people for the dinner. Tasting is 5:30-7pm. $175.

SUNDAY

We love the sound of the King Cole Bloody Mary and Bel Air Bellini, now available on the new brunch menu at Petterino's. It's the ideal spot to check out before heading over to a matinee theater performance nearby. Dig into yummy dishes like the fresh lump crab omelet, baked French toast with apples and cinnamon, Bananas Foster waffle, or crispy chicken hash with poached egg. 11am-2pm. Free valet parking after 1pm.

MONDAY

Fans of hit Fox show "24" will appreciate the new Jack Bauer Power Hour Mondays at Kirkwood Bar and Grill with $8 Miller pitchers, $3 burgers and fries, $5 fish tacos and $14 buckets of Bud bottles. 9pm-2am. No cover.

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