The Local Tourist makes our job easier

The Gage is one of many restaurants participating in the second-annual Chicago Restaurant Week. (Photo: The Gage)


Thank The Local Tourist for creating this nifty little map pointing you in the direction of every restaurant on board for the second-annual Chicago Restaurant Week.

That happens Feb. 20-27, with more than 130 participants, including La Sardine, The Gage, Merlo on Maple and Klay Oven.

Dine with Dale . . . tonight

We've got the scoop on what former "Top Chef" star Dale Levitski is serving tonight at his brand-new event at Relax Lounge:

Amuse: bitters and citrus salad. Main course: Chicken with sausage and artichoke gausetto. Dessert: stewed winter fruit with vanilla goat cheese.

Sounds like a great deal, plus it's $25 per person and diners get 20 percent off on all wine, cocktails and bubbly by the glass. They're only doing 40 servings, so get on it! 7-9pm every Thursday.

A Super-Sized weekend lined up

Now that we’re finally over our beloved Bears losing the Super Bowl two years ago, we can finally relax and enjoy the game.

If you’re partying it up at home, Suzy’s got you covered for last-minute ideas, but if you’re heading out, rest assured that every bar in town with a TV will be tuned in to the action.

So here’s what else is happening this weekend:

THURSDAY

The Originals Restaurant Week happens tonight and tomorrow, and also Feb. 2-6, where diners get three-course deals on lunch ($24.09) and dinner ($29.09). Participating restaurants include a host of independently owned faves like Cyrano's Bistrot, Kiki’s Bistro, Café Matou and Sweets & Savories.

A pre-Super Bowl bash kicks off at the new Halo [For Men] salon (654 W. Diversey Ave.), where guests get to score free beer, specialty cocktails and appetizers from Matisse. Football fans will also have the opportunity to win memorabilia autographed by Chicago Bear kicker Robbie Gould. 6-8pm. RSVP to halo@zapwater.com for admission. $10 suggested donation; all proceeds benefit the Goulden Touch Foundation.

Sample suds and snacks at Bistro 110 during the Winter Beer Reception. Executive Chef Dominique Tougne will pair signature small plates and appetizers with a diverse lineup of drafts. 5:30-7:30pm. $40.

Twitter addicts should meet up at Crimson Lounge for a "tweetfest" hosted by local meteorologist Jerry Taft. Of course, there will be specials, including $3 wine and beer, as well as 50 percent off food. 6-8pm. No cover.

Check into the Victor Hotel for the kickoff bash for the American Black Film Festival. Party aims to create buzz for the event taking place in Miami at the end of June. 6-9pm. No cover.

Butta Soft Sol, the underground hip-hop party happening at Butterfly Social Club, is a hit. Deejays Mark Fullaflava and C-Vicious spin rare grooves, classic hip-hop, soul and house to a room so crowded that you'll see a line down the street. 9pm-2am. No cover; $5 drink specials.

FRIDAY

Here's a chance to save a few bucks. Feast waives the corkage fees for BYO throughout February, plus they've unveiled a new $5 bar menu.

DJ Dez of Slum Village fame spins at Funky Buddha Lounge. The once red-hot club may be on its last legs these days, but they're certainly bringing in a host of talent you don't want to miss. 9pm-2am. $10 before 11pm when you RSVP here.

SATURDAY

Genuine Entertainment Group unveils Lumen's new look. Really didn't think they needed it seeing how it's been open less than two years, but it'll be interesting to see what's up. That happens 9pm-3am, with a cocktail reception from 9-10pm. $20.

Groove Parlor hits up The Silver Room with its monthly Soul Joy party. Deejays Vick Lavender, Mario Romay and Celeste Alexander spin deep house, soul and Latin. Open bar. 11pm-5am. $10 donation.

MONDAY

Chuck Bass . . .