312DD's Top 5 Most Anticipated Openings For 2014

Lee Wolen, during his days at The Lobby (Photo: Peninsula Chicago)

Out with the old and in with the new restaurants for 2014.

And it's already looking like quite the year as a host of notable restaurants are set to debut . . .

Berrista Coffee. Homaro Canto's been talking about those "miracle berries" for a few years now, so I'm thrilled that I'll get them on the regular when his revolutionary bakery opens in Old Irving Park in the spring. Berrista is not only a great concept with its sugar-free and gluten-free goodies, but those with diabetes and other health-related issues will finally be able to gorge with abandon.

Tip Generously; Your Delivery Person Will Appreciate it During 'ChiBeria'

The continuing miserable weather means that the majority of folks will be ordering takeout for the next few days.

And it's one of those times when tipping a dollar or two just won't cut it with the delivery person. What do you recommend tipping when the delivery person has to go through hell to get that food to you?!

Wrapping Up The Holidays In One Fell Swoop

Carnivale hosts lively, Latin-inspired Christmas Eve and Christmas dinners. (Photo: Carnivale)

I'm certain you've had your share of celebrating this season, but why not take it to the next level with a number of cocktails made just for Christmas?

Instead of the usual eggnog or Champagne cocktail, I highly encourage you to indulge in the 12 Drinks of Christmas, which range from a hot Mexican punch from Punch House to Signature Lounge's Bourbon Apple Spice.

Yes, Virginia, Chivalry Still Exists In Chicago

Public House doorman Ralph Wieczkowski (Photo: Facebook)

Chicago nightclub doormen typically get a bad rap, but not this time. Public House door guy Ralph Wieczkowski not only helped a damsel in distress who couldn't find a taxi during the frigid temperatures Saturday night, but he also paid her fare—out of his own pocket.

"Bonita" was so grateful that she tweeted about it:

This Is How One Wrigleyville Bar Honored World War II Vets Of Pearl Harbor Over The Weekend

Classy group of guys over at Murphy's Bleachers, eh?!

An interesting little tidbit is that the tavern was built in the late 1930s, during the actual World War II. Also, note the tribute to World War II heroes on the right side of the photo. Original owner Ernie Pareti has GOT to be turning over in his grave.

Eat, Shop & Sip At These Hot Chicago Stores

The Walnut Room's famed chicken pot pie (Photo via sassnasty)

When you're in a zone—a shopping zone in this case—the last thing you want to do is stop and think about where you're going to grab a bite. Lucky for you, a number of prominent retail department stores, luxury boutiques and others have taken this dilemma into account so that customers don’t have to succumb to the evils of fast-food joints.

From the famed chicken pot pie at Macy's Walnut Room to dainty sandwiches, salads and wraps at Ikram Café, here are the spots you should savor as you shop.

Make Those Last-Minute Thanksgiving Reservations

For whatever reason, you're not getting a home-cooked meal this year on Thanksgiving. But have no fear, your 312DD is here with a sweet list of top Chicago restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner.

From the steakhouse-focused Benny's Chop House to casual American State and Lake, these spots are guaranteed to make you feel right at home for the holidays.

R.I.P. Jason Cevallos, A Dynamic Force of the James Beard Award-Winning Aviary Team

(Photo: Lou Stejskal)

Chicago's culinary and mixology communities have lost a giant with the sudden death of Jason Cevallos, a Chicago native who most recently worked at The Dawson and Aviary/The Office.

His untimely passing happened Saturday during a trip to Asia, according to his former employer Aviary:

"The staffs of the Aviary, Next and Alinea are beyond saddened to learn that Jason Cevallos, former employee and bartender in The Office, passed away this morning due to complications related to salmonella poisoning.