Welcome Home, First Couple!

The Obamas are in the best place in the world to celebrate Valentine's Day—Sweet Home, Chicago!

So, of course, everyone's speculated where they'd end up on the most romantic night of the year. Turns out they're spending the entire weekend at their Hyde Park home, but if they had decided to venture out (UPDATE: They hit up Art Smith's Table Fifty-Two!), where would they go?!

Spiaggia, their favorite standby?! If they headed to this superb Italian eatery, they would've certainly nabbed seats overlooking the Mag Mile and Lake Michigan.

Or perhaps Le Colonial, whose romantic terrace perched over bustling Rush Street is the place to be when you're in amour.

Let's not forget Vivo, the West Loop hot spot with a private room elevator shaft that's seen the likes of Michael Jordan and Oprah.

Newcomer Eve is pretty much a long shot, but it would have been nice to see this progressive American restaurant in the Gold Coast get the spotlight.

Bucktown's Cafe Matou doesn't have a private dining room, but its delectable mod French cuisine and vino would have certainly made them feel as though they were the only couple in the place.

And no list would be complete without The Signature Room—offering the most spectacular view in the city from the 95th floor of the Hancock Building.

Someone's Having a Birthday!

February may be known as the month for flowers and chocolate but don't forget the birthday boy!

Giancarlo Turano II (Feb. 9) of Turano Baking Co. gets his own birthday shout-out this week as one of the very few February babies (where are the rest of you hiding?!). His family has been feeding our beloved carb cravings for nearly half a century with their artisan-style breads and pastries. You'll find their products at most grocery stores as well as a number of local restaurants and bars.


Have a February birthday? This Valentine's Day, Richard's Bar makes sure that all you February birthday babies get the love you deserve.

After all, this month isn't just about the chocolate and romance, it's about celebrating you. And this is a birthday event so forget the hearts and flowers and start thinking more along the lines of cake balls. 8pm-3am. No cover.
--Suzy M.