I'm Gushing & Crushing Over These Fabulous Things In February And You Should Too

(Photo: Protein Bar)

I'm pretty serious about this, and it makes up for all this horrible weather we've been experiencing lately.

If you can hold off until Feb. 15, you'll get a chance to witness one of the most spectacular Chicago restaurant openings I've heard about in a long time. It's not as though the new Lincoln Park location for Protein Bar is even all that fancy, it's what owner Matt Matros is doing for the public that's got me all geeked.

On opening day, the store will first host a sunrise yoga class at 6am, then the doors officially open at 11am when the first 100 customers will receive $500 gift cards (Yes, that is $50,000 in gift cards).

One public relations veteran exclaimed about this promotion: "I have done a lot of openings and anniversary PR, including the Potbelly's 20th anniversary free giveaways, but this is one of the best I have heard of in a long time. It's good idea for new and repeat diners; and good for the hood."

Something tells me that folks will be lining up overnight for this opportunity, so don't forget to set your alarm clocks!


(Photo: 312 Dining Diva)

• What's also hot this month is the new Make-Your-Own-Manhattan Menu at Luxbar. I just happened to come across it over the weekend, and our server told us that it's been going on for only two weeks. Created by head bartender Matt "Choo" Lipsky, the interactive menu allows customers to custom design their cocktail by choosing their favorite rye, vermouth, bitters and even presentation. I am already obsessed with it.

• Speaking of awesome boozy offerings, Thrillist had created a handy Bottomless Brunch Guide for Chicago. It tells you where to go for unlimited mimosas, Bloody Mary cocktails, beer, Champagne, etc. on the weekend.

• Chicago Sport & Social Club is holding its first-ever Candy Crush Crawl. Sorry, parents, this one's not for the kiddies. It goes down Saturday and CSSC President Jason Erkes describes it as "a candy-themed bar crawl the week before Valentine's Day so people can 'crush' on each other—and eat a LOT of candy." Check out the official site to see where it travels in Wrigleyville.

• Finally, behold Chicago's most romantic steakhouses.