Hit Chicago's Sweetest Spots

(Photo: Black Dog Gelato)

Have you heard?

There's a Cronut craze sweeping the nation. And while it's the dessert of the moment, we'd rather concentrate on some sweets that have been around for awhile.

But these are not your grandmothers' bakeries. Instead, we focus on chef-driven dessert spots that put Chicago dining in a new light.

Yum.

Star-Spangled Spots To Sip Suds & Other Libations

Acme Hotel’s glistening new lobby lounge feels a bit old-timey Americana. (Photo: Berkshire Room)

This weekend's a big one as we celebrate our nation's birth. And while you're saluting the flag, our country's founders and war heroes, don't forget to support some great American businesses.

With all the buzz surrounding craft beers, spirits and wines, here’s a chance to check out a number of local bar programs successfully curating superior American products into the mix.

Prince Wows Sold-Out Crowd During Late-Night Show At City Winery

Growing up watching Prince in "Purple Rain," I had always wondered what it would be like to see him perform in an intimate space. What's funny is that I was actually in his hometown of Minneapolis last Thursday and thought about what it would be like to see him onstage at First Avenue—the dance club/music venue made famous in the film.

So, I finally got my chance early Sunday—along with about 300 rabid Prince fans—when he performed at City Winery. After-hours shows of this caliber typically take place in Los Angeles and New York, so those lucky enough to get tickets were most certainly in for something special.

Lite Bites: What Your Favorite Chefs & Mixologists Are Up To Around Town This Week

Sixteen Executive Chef Thomas Lents (Photo: Trump Chicago)

Marriage Equality for all!

If you're one of those people who has a knack for picking the freshest produce at the farmer's market yet hasn't mastered how to cook them, this summer series is for you. Sixteen's Thomas Lents recently collaborated with some of the country's top markets for a unique spin on farm-focused dinners. Diners choose produce from the restaurant's pop-up market, then Lents creates a menu showcasing those ingredients. Courses range anywhere from four to 12, so prices vary.

OON's Bar Staff Shaping Into One Hot Cast Of Characters

Brian Williamson (from left), Briar Brackney and Michael Huebner (Photo: OON Restaurant)

OON Restaurant debuts July 1 in the West Loop with Matt Eversman's unique style of American contemporary cuisine accented by Southeast Asian flavors.

To complement his fresh flavors, he's assembled quite the team behind the bar, thanks to general manager Jon McDaniel (who was most recently at Purple Pig).

So Very, Very Hot Right Now.

Megan and Don Draper toast to a great "Mad Men" finale. (Photo: AMC)

It's been a strange, trippy road for "Mad Men" this year, and now the 1960s-based series concludes its sixth season on Sunday.

If you're looking to celebrate with like-minded folks, the glamorous Gold Coast hotel PUBLIC Chicago seems the appropriate place with its luxe, retro setting.

You're Invited To Help Trattoria Gianni Celebrate Its First 25 Years In Biz

The patio at Trattoria Gianni (Photo: Trattoria Gianni)

The go-to spot before or after shows in the Lincoln Park theater district turns 25 years old in June. Trattoria Gianni celebrates with a massive, Italian-style dinner party on Monday, June 24, and I've got invites for a few lucky folks.

To be considered, you must be a fan on the 312 Dining Diva facebook page. Look for the post about this event, and tell me why you should go. And yes, you get to bring a guest! The contest ends at noon June 20 and I will pick the winners by noon June 21.

What You Should Be Sipping This Summer

Finally, some REAL summer weather!

To celebrate, I encourage you to indulge in what's certain to be the best drinks this season: the Moscow Mule and a number of Polynesian-inspired elixirs. We uncover some new twists on the classic tipplers.