Bad-Ass Butchering Skills . . .

(Photo: The Bristol)

Here's The Bristol's carnivore crazed chef Chris Pandel breaking down a Slagel Farm goat.

I'm certain he'll have some fantastic specials on the menu this weekend . . .

Bon V Liquor License Reinstated

(Photo: Bon V)

West Loop nightclub Bon V got its liquor license revoked Monday, but it was reinstated late Thursday afternoon, according to state officials.

"A representative from Bon V came to the downtown office and paid a substantial amount of money to get their license back for at least 30 days," said my source.

That means the spot will be back in business just in time for the weekend.

Food & Wine's Essential Cocktail Guide

It came in the mail today.

Food & Wine's awesome and indispensable little cocktail party guide spotlighting the country's top culinary and cocktail kings and queens.

And you know we wouldn't even be gushing about this if it didn't include Chicago's stars of the highest order. In the Party Food section, you'll find a recipe for Chickpea Fritters with Tapenade from Girl & The Goat's Stephanie Izard. Apparently she eats cooked chickpeas straight from the can.

Next Now Offers Late-Night Reservations; Plus New Schwa Reso System?!

(Photo: Next)

This right here is great news for all you late-night dining fans:

Grant Achatz and Next just announced that beginning Thursday they've got 54 late-night resos available. The 10:15pm tables are on offer until the end of June (or maybe if it takes off, they'll continue through the summer!).

Who Doesn't Love A Good Lobster Boil?!

A New England-style lobster boil. (Photo via Carla's Tasty Treats)

As summer finally creeps its way back into our lives, there's one awesome occasion we can look forward to: the lobster boil.

You may be lucky enough to have generous friends who invite you over for such fabulous fetes, but in case you don't, we've got you covered.

Several places around town are going out of their way to make sure you don't miss out on the action like Tripoli Tap Tavern in Lincoln Park. This seventh-annual lobster boil (and clam bake!) goes down Memorial Day weekend 3pm-until May 29.

Oprah Lunches at Table Fifty-Two

There's Oprah (in teal sweater) surrounded by adoring fans, as usual, Wednesday afternoon. (Photos: Amy Halik)

I sure do hope Oprah didn't expect to enjoy a quiet lunch Wednesday at Table Fifty-Two following her star-studded farewell show at the United Center and equally celeb-packed party at the Four Seasons Tuesday night.

Oprah's All-Star Wrap Party Was 'Top Secret'

First, I was told RL (likely because of all the autograph seekers lingering around the area). Then it was the West Loop's Tasting Room, which actually made sense seeing as though it was only a few minutes away from the United Center. Someone also told me Paris Club was where Oprah was going to throw one last fabulous bash with her celebrity friends late Tuesday night.

But it was actually The Four Seasons, and, of course, the guest list did not disappoint.

My Ultimate Insider, who was at the party, said A-List sightings included the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Kelsey Grammer, Michael Jordan, Alicia Keys, Lisa Ling and Tom Hanks. And because celebrities on this level need an all-star lineup when it comes to who's actually making their cocktails, the Four Seasons pulled out all stops.

Why Did Bon V's Liquor License Get Revoked?!

(Photo: Bon V)

Just a few weeks ago, hip-hop/movie star Common held a party here. And, as everyone knows, Casey Urlacher (brother of Bears star linebacker Brian Urlacher), is one of the owners.

So what exactly happened to Bon V for it to lose its liquor license Monday?!