Until Next Time...

If you've noticed our posting hasn't been up to par lately, it's because the Delve team is getting ready to make some moves (both geographically and professionally). While we're going on a brief hiatus, rest assured that we'll undoubtedly be back! Thanks for your readership over the past year and we promise to be back before you know it. 

In the meantime, keep in touch: DelveChicago@gmail.com
@DelveChicago
 
xo,
Leslie & Amy 

Tonight!

New Obsession: Lily Dawson Designs

Last week, Delve caught up with our latest obsession on the jewelry scene: Lily Dawson. The fashion student turned hand-made accessories designer dishes on all things style - from what inspires her pieces to her love of a well-edited arm party. 

Delve: Where do you get the inspiration for your pieces?
LDD: All over the place!  Often what's happening on the runways, but also random things I see in my everyday life that causes me to pause and say "Hey, that could be a cool necklace!"

Delve: If you could raid the accessories closet of any celeb or designer, who would it be?
LDD: Accessories alone I would probably choose Rachel Zoe.  Her shoes rock.

Delve: Coco Chanel is quoted for saying “Before leaving the house, a lady should stop, look in the mirror, and remove one piece of jewelry.” - Agree? Or agree to disagree?
LDD: Yes yes, totally agree.  I want to create pieces that aren't just "easy".  You need to do some serious editing and not just put everything on together.  I love to see all the different ways people are wearing my things. For instance, I always envisioned this bracelet being worn alone or stacked with an arm party of various bracelets.  And a boutique owner in China shared this photo of two bracelets stacked together with another one of mine---blew my mind!

Delve: What's next for LDD?
LDD: I'm really looking forward to the Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago.  I applied last year and didn't make it, so this year I was floored to be chosen. I just take business as it comes, that has always been my philosophy.  I trust that I will grow appropriately based on the various avenues of exposure that LDD takes.

Want more? Check out Lily's site here.

I'll Take Ya to the LollaShop...

Still haven’t scored your ticket to Lolla? Not to worry. Despite the sell out, there’s still hope.

LollaShop opens its doors tomorrow at Michigan and Van Buren (332 S Michigan Ave to be exact!) giving groveling Chicagoans one final chance to win free passes. That’s right…free. First drawing kicks off tomorrow, with another on the 30th and a final on the 2nd.

Couture Cocktail'ing 101

At-home bar must-haves. How to bartend like you’ve been doing it your entire life. How to impress any guy with your bar skills.

These are just a few things the Delve crew covered off on with cocktail couture expert Revae Schneider. She’s the founder of Femme du Coupe, a bespoke cocktail and bar styling company servicing those in Chicago looking to be on top of their entertaining game.

What makes her an expert in stylish cocktail’ing? Revae spent her earlier years as a personal shopper for the likes of Marc Jacobs and Neiman Marcus, as well as a bevy of personal clients for whom she styled their homes and closets. That, coupled with her knowledge of the libation scene from years of bartending, brought Revae to the forefront of the bespoke cocktail scene here in Chicago.

Delve: What are the must-haves for an in-home bar that’s not intimidating to bartending novices?
Revae: A good vodka is a must because it’s universally liked by guys and girls. I also recommend having a gin on hand, but one that’s not juniper forward. And of course, a good whiskey. In addition to those spirits, I rely on orange, and recently ginger, liqueurs quite often. As far as the extras (bitters, etc.) go, fresh citrus is a necessary ingredient in any specialty cocktail. (Side note: Revae taught us that fresh citrus goes bad within 4-5 hours, so ditch the bottles lemon juice. Who knew?).

Delve: What is one drink that every girl should know how to make?
Revae: A French 75 (gin, lemon juice, sugar and champagne)

Delve: What advice do you have for newbies at cocktail creation?
Revae: Stock your at-home bar by shopping for a specific cocktail. If you have a few ingredients that you know can work together to create a great cocktail, you’ll wow your guests. Creating one cocktail that’s a hit is better than having a fully stocked bar that you don’t know how to navigate.

Delve: What style trends are you loving for at-home bars?
Revae: I would definitely go with a bar cart for housing all spirits and bar tools. And I’m a huge fan of vintage glassware.

Planning an event? Revae even does house calls. We’re talking everything from bachelorette parties (hello, mixology class) to food pairings. Check out offerings from Femme du Coupe here. 


*Photo via Femme du Coupe

BHB Here to Stay - Sort Of.....

We’ve heard the back and forth about the fate of Bleeding Heart Bakery for a few months now and are excited to share (with a huge sigh of relief) that things have sort of been settled. Scott Weiner and Greg Mohr (the team behind Roots Handmade Pizza and the recently-opened Homestead) will take over full ownership, splitting from previous owners Vinny and Michelle Garcia. We’re not overly excited about the fact that the bakery and café will now be called West Town Bakery & Diner, but it’s a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things.

Just please, please do not change the menu.

The café will close this weekend and open its doors back up under the new name on the 28th.

DIY Popsicles and Prosecco

We’ve seen a recent uptick in boozy frozen treats here in Chicago, but we’ve decided to take matters into our own hands. The Conrad New York recently introduced us to puree popsicles soaked in prosecco. In order to avoid the temptation of flying to-and-from NYC every time we’re craving one of said treats, we suggest making them in the comfort of your own home. All you have to do is place an all-fruit popsicle top down in a wine glass and pour prosecco over each. Easy as that! Too hot outside to keep the popsicles frozen? Not to worry, it makes for an amazing slushy of sorts as they melt.

Don’t want to go through the hassle of whipping them up yourself? Pop into one of the below for spiked frozen treats made to order:  

• Red Door (Bucktown) – Adult snow cones with flavors like the manhattan, old-fashioned and pear mojito.
• Dragon Ranch Moonshine & BBQ (River North) – “The Bushwacker” is a frozen moonshine concoction featuring the likes of two rums, Kahlua, coconut and lots and lots of chocolate.
• Boiler Room (Logan Square) – Three words: Jameson soft serve.

*Photo via The Conrad New York

Out with Il Mulino, in with Mr. Chow?

Our friends at Eater are reporting that the dimly lit, uber romantic spot Il Mulino is moving on out of the historic Biggs Mansion. We were bummed to hear the news... that is until these two new pieces of information trickled in:

1. Rumours are swirling that Mr. Chow (famed delicious, yet pricey Chinese joint already in Miami, LA, NYC and London) will be moving into the space following an extensive revamp

2. Il Mulino won't be leaving Chi-Town, rather just re-locating (new spot still TBD)

While all is just speculation at this point, you won't hear any complaints from us having both of these upscale eateries in Chicago.

RPM Steak?!

photo courtesy of Us Weekly

This week's US Weekly is reporting that not only are Bill & Guiliana getting a baby, but the RPM family is growing as well! Bill reveals in the article news of RPM's upcoming spin-off:

"We opened RPM Italian at the beginning of this year and we're having a lot of fun and really enjoying it, so we decided we'd open another one called RPM Steak. It's going to be in Chicago as well. It'll be about two blocks from RPM Italian, and then we're eyeing Vegas for the next RPM!"

No more details at this point aside from the fact that RPM Steak is currently under construction and is set to open the beginning of 2013. Another steakhouse in Chicago? Eh. More good eats/Bill & Guiliana? Yes!

Luxury Garage Sale Puts Down Roots

The fabulous consignment house Luxury Garage Sale is finally setting up shop in Old Town. Come late summer/early fall, the new store (popping up on Wells), will feature a carefully curated collection of their favorite ‘finds’ like Chanel handbags, vintage Balenciaga and more. Unlike other consignment shops around town, LGS will sell items right from within the store, so you don't have to go home and go through the hassle of bidding online.

The new store promises to carry unique finds that change on a daily basis, but this isn't your average vintage store with pieces that reek faintly of mothballs. The stylish owners (Lindsay and Brielle) guarantee that they won't carry anything in their stores that they wouldn't wear themselves. The biggest draw of the business is also one of LGS’s best kept secrets – many top boutiques sell their extra inventory on Luxury Garage Sale at up to 85% off (we’re talking Tucker silk blouses, with the tags on, for under $100).

So what kind of great deals/finds can you expect at the new LGS store? Below are some of the goods that the girls are currently lusting after (also available via their eBay store now).

Chanel Bag

Mark Heister Beaded Cape

Vintage Gold Necklaces

Hermes Alligator Birkin Bag

Christmas Comes Early: Neiman Marcus and Target Release News of Holiday Collabs

Our affinity for designer items for less is well known. Hence why we were beyond excited to hear about the latest news coming from our favorite retailers Target (pronounced Tarjaaay) and Neiman Marcus. The two mega-retailers have tapped into their lengthy list of designer contacts to announce that come this holiday season, they will be co-creating a collection of more than 50 gifts - from apparel and home décor to pet products - courtesy of CDFA designers. Mark your calendars because these one-of-a-kind items will hit all Target and Neiman Marcus stores (and online hubs too) on December 1.

Ranging in price from under $10 to $500, the collection of gifts boasts an impressive designer roster including: Alice + Olivia, Band of Outsiders, Brian Atwood, Derek Lam, Diane von Furstenberg, Jason Wu, Lela Rose, Marchesa, Marc Jacobs, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler, Rag & Bone, Tory Burch and Tracy Reese, just to name a few!

All designers were given the freedom to create items within the categories they felt strongly about— meaning that some of the above designers will venture into new territory (fingers crossed for home décor from Proenza!). The stores aren't divulging much more at this time, but promise to show us the goods on Oct. 16. Until then, feel free to let your imagination run wild about what these amazing designers are cooking up for our holiday wish lists.

Cocktail'ing for a Cause

Join the Bright Pink team and a bevy of other do-good orgs tomorrow night at The Drinking Bird for “Pink for a Cure” – an event to bring awareness to breast and ovarian cancer. 100% of proceeds from the raffle and 50% of proceeds from the below drink menu with go directly will go directly to Be Bright Pink - so drink up friends.

New Rooftop Coming to UK Village

A new addition is coming soon to one of our favorite Chicago neighborhoods. Set to open mid-July, Homestead will make its home on the rooftop of Root’s Homemade Pizza in the Ukrainian Village, promising a literal interpretation of the ever-popular farm-to-table concept.

Greg Mohr and Scott Weiner, the guys behind Roots and Fifty/50, are opening the new spot along with Chef Formica – previously of Sunda. What we’re loving most? Every ingredient in every dish will make its way to your table straight from the 1,000 square foot organic rooftop farm located next door – boasting over 100 different vegetable, fruit, plant, and herb varietals. While seated on the 85-seat rooftop, diners have full view of the rooftop farm.

What’s on the menu? Chef Formico says he’s featuring around 15 sharable plates and three desserts at a time – with a constantly changing menu. Two sneak peeks include the Two Way Potato (sliced potato stuffed with local goat cheese mashed potatoes, served on top of lightly-dressed greens and topped with shaved summer truffles) and the Lamb Tartare (finely chopped Illinois-raised lamb filets mixed with bulgar, mint, parsley, scallion, tomato, cucumber, and cinnamon). 

Homestead will offer up a full liquor bar and an evolving cocktail menu starting out with eight specialty cocktails. Similar to Roots, the beer list will exclusively feature brew from the Midwest, and wines will all be organic.


Follow Homestead on Facebook for updates on the official opening.

Cover it Up

With swimsuits as cute as these ones and temps soaring into the high 90's, you may feel a bit reluctant to cover up in these summer months. When the time does come for a little public decency, Delve has got you covered. Take a look at our picks for beach/poolside frocks that will keep you both feeling and looking cool. We like some of these so much that we might incorporate them into our weekday wardrobes.

From left to right Mara Hoffman ($330), Free People ($78), Joie ($98) Tory Burch ($177)

Bonjour, Giselle

Last time we stepped foot in the Harris Theater, we left with dropped-jaws from the sexy, scandalous performance of Carmen by the Luna Negra Dance Theater. And now, more stories of love and deceit. Let’s just say we can’t get enough. 

For the first time ever in Chicago (and the first time in the U.S. in 15 years), the world’s oldest and most distinguished ballet is debuting at Harris Theater, starting tomorrow. The Paris Opéra Ballet will open its U.S. tour of Giselle and Epic French Masterpieces right here in the Windy City running through July 1st, before jetting off to the JFK Center for Performing Arts in D.C. and finishing up at the Lincoln Center in NYC.

The tour opens with Giselle, created in 1841 and described as a story of love and forgiveness where Giselle, a peasant girl, is seduced by a great lord. Giselle learns she has been tricked by the lord and dies of a broken heart – but her love is said to extend beyond the grave. A girl still in love with a guy even after he breaks her heart? Looks like some things never change.  

After three nights of Giselle, the stage switches to Epic French Masterpieces, from June 29 to July 1 – this one described as a sexy, contemporary showcase of three ballets including Roland Petit’s L’Arlesienne, Serge Lifar’s Suite en blanc, and Maurice Béjart’s Boléro. 

Not ready to sacrifice even an ounce of this incredible weather? Millennium Park is hosting a live simulcast of Wednesday’s performance of Giselle in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion at 7:30 p.m. on June 27. A little French ballet + a little French rosé in the park? Oui, s'il vous plaît.

More info and tickets are available at www.HarrisTheaterChicago.org.

Cusp Coming to a Neiman Marcus Near You

Whether in the 'burbs or downtown's Water Tower, us Chicagoans have been fortunate enough to have Cusp as a go-to store for that perfect party dress. A subsidiary of Neiman Marcus, to-date, Cusp only had six stores nationwide, two within the Windy City.

Love it or hate it, our exclusive access to the store is soon about to change. Starting now (and wrapping up in 2014), NM is re-branding all of their contemporary departments to be essentially a large Cusp shop-in-shop. The re-branded concept will expand the store's contemporary department by 20-25%, stocking more lines you love and a fresher aesthetic for the sometimes stuffy department store.

So how does this affect the already free-standing Cusp stores? So far, it doesn't. Which will eventually mean that Michigan Avenue will soon boast two Cusps within two blocks. More DVF, Joie and Phillip Lim? You don't hear us complaining.

Father's Day Guide

Mid-June means it's that time again: time to celebrate that guy in your life that, no matter what, always has your back. So instead of opting for a new golf glove or six pack, Delve is offering up a few gifts for any type of dad:

• For the outdoorsy dad: Hit the water with dad via kayak at Kayak Chicago ($65)
• For the man of style: Assorted vintage cufflinks from Dannijo ($165)
• For the wine-o: Opt dad in to a monthly wine club via sites like MyWineDeal ($75)
• For the tech geek: Up dad’s grilling skills with the iGrill – an iPhone app that lets you monitor the meat temp from up to 200 feet away. ($80)
• For the over-worked: Send him off to the Four Seasons for a Bourbon Massage (55 minutes $160, 80 minutes $210)

Just looking to spend a little QT with your old man? See below for Delve’s top recos on Father’s Day brunching:

• Hub 51: For just $30 per person from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. enjoy items like short ribs benedict, thick-cut brioche french toast and buttermilk pancakes.
• Paris Club: Feeling a little over-indulgent? Head to Paris Club for offerings including the Alaskan king crab omelette, housemade ham and gruyere omelet, smoked salmon and asparagus benedict, or brioche french toast with Michigan blueberries.
• Old Town Pour House: Two words: bison + beer.
• Zed451: Zed is offering up $3 craft brews including: Goose Island Matilda, Fat Tire, Dark Horse Amber Ale, Left Hand Milk Stout, 5 Rabbit Golden Ale and Three Floyds seasonals. Oh, and $5 burgers. 

Mouth-Watering Openings: Summer/Fall 2012

We’re still playing catch-up on the restaurants already new to the scene in 2012, but Eater Chicago just unveiled a pretty tempting list of the most anticipated openings for this Summer/Fall. We don’t even know where to begin with this list. Kidding. We’re obviously beginning with the fact that Belly Q just announced they will have a karaoke room. Thank you Mr. Kim (pictured).

Take a look at the full line-up here including a few rooftops to add to your scene-ster list, a few wine bars to spice up your date spot regimen and a couple of eateries to be reserved for girls’ night (aka “eat as much as you want” night).

Black Bull Opens on W. Division

Now open in Wicker Park: Black Bull – a tapas bar and tavern on W. Division from the guys behind Hubbard Inn, Barn & Company and English. While we’re already hearing great things about their lineup of traditional Spanish pintxos, we may or may not be most excited about two things: pitchers of sangria (served in gorgeous hand-blown pitchers) + a fab patio.





We’re heading there next week, and already have our list of must-try items lined up:

• albóndigas de cordero en salsa (lamb meatballs, roasted red pepper, tomato sauce)
• pimientos del piquillo rellenos de bacalao (piquillo peppers stuffed with cod)
• huevos rotos con patatas y chorizo (fried eggs, thick cut fries, chorizo)
• montaditos de ensaladilla rusa (potato, tuna, peas, aioli, crostini)

Check out the full menu here.

*Photo via Black Bull

900 N. Michigan Summer Essentials Giveaway

Free Clothes...do we have your attention?

One of our favorite Chicago shopping destinations tipped us off to an amaze giveaway running from now until June 30th. The shops at 900 N. Michigan (home to J. Crew, Space 519, DNA2050 - among many others) recently launched their "Summer Essentials Giveaway." They are giving away four complete looks (perfect for a variety of quintessential Chicago summer activities) styled by four fellow Chicago style experts. From dressing to impress for "a day at the beach" to rocking a "carefree concert goddess" vibe, they are letting you vote on your favorite ensemble (worth over $1000 EACH) for a chance to win the complete look.

Entering is as easy as submitting your name and email via the following link: http://www.shop900.com/summergiveaway/

Let's just say our fingers are crossed for the "night out" look. Good luck!

New Speakeasy-Style Bar Hits a Gold Coast Rooftop

Benjamin Newby has been Delve’s go-to for cocktail trends from pretty much day one of our blog life. And now, the mixologist extraordinaire is taking on a new venture – as the ringleader of the opening-Friday Drumbar.

The Delve crew headed over to the rooftop of the Raffaello Hotel (201 E. Delaware) to check things out, and needless to say based on the photos below, liked what we saw. We were sold when we heard the word rooftop, but this place has so much more to offer than just the (fabulous) outside terrace. 

First things first - the decor: 
We could go on for hours about the architecture of the space – with modern accents perfectly complementing the historic vibe – but we’ll let the photos speak for themselves.

Now on to the cocktails: 
Promising a modern take on classic cocktails, Newby has conjured up a menu that focuses on whiskys, bourbons and scotches. For the non-dark liquor drinkers, fear not, there’s options for all. As your humble taste-testers, we tried (and loved) all of the below: 

• Rose: Nolet’s gin, lemon juice, aperol, simple syrup and rose lemonade
• Ruby: Old Forester Bourbon, Bitter Truth apricot liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup and raspberries
• Honey: 42 Below Honey Vodka, peach liqueur, vanilla chai syrup, lemon juice, egg white, grapefruit bitters and mint (pictured above)
  

Summer hours of operation will be: Thursday and Friday, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m. to 3 a.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. 

Photos courtesy of kcbasso 

Discount Wine, Straight to Your Door

Attention current and wannabe wine-os:

Allow us to formerly introduce you to MyWineDeal.com, your new go-to for bottles and bottles (and bottles…) of wines delivered straight to your door, without breaking the bank.

Here’s the gist:
MyWineDeal.com is a free, membership-only flash sales wine website – offering two wines each week at a discount for a limited time or until they sell out. Think Groupon, but solely focused on wine. Currently, shipping is available to Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana. 



Why we love them: 

• They remove the guesswork. If you’re like us, you pretend you’re in-the-know on all things wine. But frankly, you’re not. The team at MyWineDeal gives you all the deets you need in order to have an informed convo while sipping. We’re talking everything from which aromas you should be experiencing (fake it ‘til ya make it, right?) to foods to pair with each varietal. Have more questions than what’s provided? Join the winery owner/winemaker in a Google+ Hangout that MyWineDeal will host each week. You’ll be sommelier-status in no time. 
• We love a good deal. Maybe you’re more into wine for the over-indulgence factor (hey, no judgment here) than the history of the wine. With the prices they’re offering, you can double up while still sipping quality wines. Adios Carlo. 
• They’re Chicagoans! You all know that we love to spread our Windy City arms as far as humanly possible – and what better way to get advice than from your friendly neighborhood wine-enthusiasts. Brother/Sister duo Joe and Stephanie Pellar own and operate out of Chicago – traveling anywhere and everywhere to taste test the best of the best wines.

Insider tip: they’re running a Facebook contest for 3 months of free shipping. More info here. 

Movin' Out: Sofia Vintage/ Fix Boutique

To make way for the new luxury shops at the soon-to-be new and improved Esquire Theater on Oak, Delve favorite Sofia Vintage is temporarily closing. While the store assures shoppers that they will be opening a new location in the Gold Coast in the near future, for now the store is having a 50% off sale. That means that from June 4th-24th, the store's So-Cal, edgy duds will fit even better into your budget. The store will be moving out of its current location until the end of June.

In more permanent news, the West Loop's Fix Boutique will be officially shuttering its doors June 30th. While we are sad to see this local gem go, the store is offering up their contemporary-chic inventory for up to 80% off (you heard right) until doors close. With premium denim selling for $50, you can't afford not to go.

Favorite stores moving out, extreme sales moving in - parting is such sweet sorrow...

Weekend Recos: Memorial Day Edition

For those not hightailing it out of the city for some countryside R&R this holiday weekend, listen up. We’ve got everything you need to make the most of your long weekend. See below for Delve’s top five weekend recos: 

• Randolph Street Market – spend your Saturday and Sunday scouring the market for vintage garbs and antique housewares, all while cocktailing and listening to local bands.
• ROOF Sundays – Celebrate the kickoff of ROOF Sundays season at the The Wit Hotel. We’ve never met a daytime roof party we didn’t like.   

• SUB 51 Summer Kickoff Party – ½ price Belvedere bottles + dancing to the spins of DJ Konsept. All within eye’s distance of Hub’s a-mazing pulled chicken nachos.
• Hit the Beach – this weekend marks the official opening of Chicago beaches so lather up the SPF and join the other faux spring breakers at North Ave beach.
• Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest – Saturday and Sunday filled with cheesy cover bands, draft beers and fried food. #sold

Designer Crush: Mara Hoffman Swim

As far as we're concerned, Memorial Day weekend marks the official start of summer. Whether you are hitting Oak St. Beach or lucky enough to have access to a pool, it's time to start thinking swimwear. While the thought of getting into a bikini after months of hibernation can be somewhat dreadful, the suits we have been scouting from Mara Hoffman make the transition a whole lot better.

From Cheetah to Aztec inspired, we are loving her bold patterns and flattering cuts this summer season. Whether you want a teeny bikini or a more moderate one-piece, Mara's got you covered. Check out below our favorite pics from the designer's most recent collection.

Want more?

Check out all the latest styles from Mara Hoffman here.

Tonight! Jean Therapy at 900 N Michigan

No plans tonight? Stop by the "Jean Therapy: Feel Good in Your Genes" event at DNA 2050 (the fab women's jean store at 900 N Michigan).

Attendees will recieve 20% off all items in the store (perfect time to stock up on this summer's hottest denim trend), a free raffle ticket for your chance to win designer jeans, complimentary cocktails/desserts, goody-bags, makeup touch-ups by Bobbi Brown and more!

Shopping for a good cause? Now that's something we can get behind.

Red Sole Retail: Louboutin comes to the Chi

As if Oak street wasn't already home to enough high-end shopping, the long deserted Esquire Theater is doing a complete revamp to feature three floors of luxury shopping/entertainment. While we have heard some about the dining options that will occupy the space (Del Frisco's - since Chicago obviously needs another steakhouse), the first retail partner has been announced and is none other than Monsieur Louboutin. Come December, Chicagoans will be able to ooh and ahh over the pricey pumps in a 1,000 sq. ft store. The Oak street store marks the brand's first boutique in the Midwest.

While Louboutin's aren't a bad place to start, we can't wait to hear what else will be joining this soon-t0-be retail hostpot.

photo courtesy of Racked Chicago

The Drinkingbird Opens in Lincoln Park

Let's be honest. Sometimes all a gal needs after a sob-worthy rom com is a cocktail to snap her back to her normal self. And while we love a dive bar as much as the next Chicagoan, finding an applaudable cocktail near the Clybourne and Webster theater was next to impossible. Until this week.

Enter The Drinkingbird: a 60’s Vegas-style lounge meets neon-adorned watering hole in the old Flounder’s space.

We know what you’re thinking. It’s impossible to head to that hood without devouring a Pequod’s deep dish, but do yourself a favor and give their neighbor a go. One deviled egg and Pimm’s Cup later, you'll realize you made the right decision.

Cocktail’ing:
Expect a pretty legit lineup of beers, in addition to an a-mazing cocktail lineup. Go for the Pimm’s Cup, The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club (Flor de Cana Gold, Lime, Cointreau and Velvet Falernum) or (one of our faves on every menu) the Paloma Punch (Luna Azul Reposado, Agave Syrup, Grapefruit, Lime, Soda and Grapefruit Bitters).

Bites:
Not yet on the menu (but soon to be) are the beer battered scallops, which were borderline the best scallops we’ve had in a while. And of course, never to disappoint, we didn’t get through dinner without an order of the frites. A few of our favorite gals headed in to The Drinking Bird a few days after us and are still talking about the Rillette (with house-baked Challah, beer mustard, bourbon butter and smoked pork belly).

The Drinkingbird opened Tuesday and brought cocktail’ing couture to an intersection that, well, needed it.

Oh. And did we mention they have a fireplace? #sold

Check out Thrillist's behind the scenes footage of The Drinkingbird's Pimm's Cup creation here.

Trending: Colored Collars

Summer is almost upon us which means that we are already thinking of ways to accessorize our go-to wardrobe of white tanks and denim cutoffs. The bauble trend we are most excited about this season? The jeweled, neon necklaces that we see popping up from our favorite jewelry designers. Throw on any of the above to add an unexpected pop of color to your summer staples.

from left to right: Tom Binns, Iosselliani, Dannijo

Mercer 113 Opens its Doors

Back in January, we told you about Hubbard Street's forthcoming addition, Mercer 113 - the brainchild of the owners of Social Twenty-Five and Moe's Cantina. Well, after much anticipation, the restaurant/lounge is opening its doors this weekend. Here's a snapshot of what to expect:

Food: Joining the ranks of restaurants like Hub51 and EPIC, Mercer attempts to deliver on both food and nightlife. The menu boasts some mouthwatering dishes such as Tuna Carpaccio, Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Roasted Beet Salad, Almond Crusted Halibut and Blue Cheese Crusted Filet Medallions. Have we seen these dishes before? Yes. Do they still sound delicious? Yes.

Cocktails: For $12 a pop you can sample some inventive concoctions to start your night off right. Our picks? The refreshing Mercer cocktail (Absolut Citron, Matcha Green Tea, lemongrass simple syrup and a fresh squeezed lemon) and the Blackberry Old Fashioned (Gentleman Jack, agave nectar, muddled blackberries, fresh grapefruit and grapefruit bitters).

Ambiance: The website touts an "earth-inspired" decor featuring natural design elements (i.e. Tree Bark), large sliding glass doors and a fireplace wall. We're curious to see how the space transitions from New-American dining to a bottle-service serving, late-night destination - which is exactly why we will be there this weekend to find out.

merceronethirteen.com; 113 W. Hubbard St.

Last Minute Gifting: Mother's Day

A little behind on snagging a gift to show Mom your love? Rest assured, we've got your back. See below for a few last minute gifts for wow'ing Mom.

Clockwise from left to right: Jonathan Adler paperweight $42; Alexis Bittar bangle $64; Anthropologie recipe bookmarks book $10; Nest votive set $98; Marni printed iPad sleeve $210

Go See: The Quick & Easy Boys

Looking for a way to get through Hump Day? We'll be heading north to Martyr's to rock out with the Quick & Easy Boys on their Chi-town tour stop. Out of Portland, the trio is in the middle of a national tour and is hitting up one of our fave live-band venues with their rock-meets-honky-tonk jams.

Check out their video below, and more deets on the band here.

Fashion's Finest: Met Gala 2012

Our favorite fashion night of the year did not disappoint in 2012. This year's Met Gala was filled with Hollywood's chicest starlets sporting some serious frocks. With so many celebs to choose from, see below for our top picks of last night's fashion frenzy.

Spring Cleaning Extravaganza! LGS at Perchance

If your closet is bursting at the seams, we've found a solution for you. Luxury Garage Sale (the ultimate consignment service for the fashion-consious set) is going to be at Perchance this Thursday accepting your gently loved designer duds. Should they consign items from your closet, you in turn get 20% off to shop for some new goodies at Perchance (located in the newly dubbed Waldorf Astoria Chicago). Pretty much a win-win on all fronts!

 See details below and start cleaning out those closets now! click on image to enlarge

Starting THIS Sunday

*photo via Paris Club

Tonight!

North Coast Lineup: Take 1

First round of lineup announcements for North Coast Music Fest went live last night. Tickets available here. More headliners to be announced soon.

Thoughts? We're a little underwhelmed over here.

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Lolla Lineup 2012

It's here! It's here!

The Lolla line-up was officially announced this week and Perry Farrell did not disappoint this year. With an eclectic mix of indie, mainstream and electronic acts, our biggest concern is how they are going to fit in all this amazing music in just one weekend.

Now that the acts are announced, we will be on the lookout for the schedule. Let's just say that if Florence + the Machine and Avicii are playing at the same time, we are going to have a MAJOR dilemma on our hands.

What do you think of this year's line-up? Is it better or worse than years past?

click on image to enlarge

Lagunitas Hits the Chi

This just in: Lagunitas owner Tony Magee took to Twitter last night announcing the opening of a Lagunitas brewhouse in Chicago. Though based in Cali, Magee was born and raised in the Chi – so the new addition is a natural fit for for the crew.

What we can expect: a 250-barrel setup ready to churn out the first mash in late 2013. Location is set at 18th and Rockwell.

As the craft beer scene continues to make a home in the Midwest, we’re excited for the addition of a “Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’” right here in the Chi.

Best of 2012 Dining

Chicago Magazine recently unveiled their picks for the top 20 new restaurants to hit Chicago in the past year. What we learned from the list? We still have a lot of eating to do.

Included in the list are a few of the expected heavy-hitters (a la Next, Tavernita and Slurping Turtle), along side some surprises (Goosefoot snagged the #1 spot).

Check out the full list here.

*photo via Goosefoot

Bottega Veneta Designs Suite for Park Hyatt

As if NoMI didn't already wow us, the Park Hyatt Chicago just upped the ante. The luxe hotel has partnered with iconic fashion brand Bottega Veneta to design the ultimate suite. Titled, The Lake Suite, the 1,400 sq. foot room beautifully mirrors the label's understated elegance while also featuring a full living room, kitchenette and two bathrooms.

While we aren't sure of the room rate quite yet, if it mirrors the prices of Veneta's handbags, we should probably start saving now.

Photo via Park Hyatt Hotel

Tonight! Luxury Garage Sale at Spiaggia

Click on image to enlarge

Go See: Cascabel

Love story meets circus meets Mexican feast. Basically three of our fave things rolled into one three-hour show.

Oh. And did we mention there’s comedy and dance involved as well?

Chicago chef-extraordinaire Rick Bayless has joined forces with creators of Lookingglass and award-winning author/producer Heidi Stillman to introduce Cascabel, an interactive dining and wining (via pours from an aerialist…of course) experience combined with a theater production that Bayless himself acts in.

From the show:
"In this sensual tale of love and hunger, the audience will join the guests of the boardinghouse Cascabel at their courtyard table. From his meager kitchen, the mysterious new cook conjures an enchanting cuisine, which seems to give those who eat it fantastic and magical abilities. But he is singularly focused on the proprietress of the house, a melancholy woman with no interest in his food, who barely ever leaves her room. Will she ever try a bite? And what will happen if she does?"

We don't know what will happen if she does, but we can't wait to find out. Get your tickets now – Cascabel runs through the end of the month.

*photo via Chicago Tribune

Celeb Stylist Occupies Trump

What do you, Gwyneth Paltrow and Michelle Williams have in common? Unless you have an Oscar, the answer is probably, not much. That is, until now. This summer, Anthony Cristiano (celeb hairstylist to the likes of the above, Demi Moore, Uma Thurman and more), will open a 3,400 sq. foot salon in the Trump Tower. Offering everything from cuts, color, waxing, make-up applications and manicures/pedicures, the new salon will overlook the Chicago river in a space that has been vacant since the Tower's opening. In addition to a full-time staff of stylists, Cristiano has promised that he will be leveraging his network of celebrity beauty experts on the coasts to make occasional stops in Chicago.

While cuts will run you anywhere from $75-$350, (the higher end being for a cut from Cristiano himself), we'd be willing to try it out considering Gwyneth rarely steers us wrong.

French Market Amps up Offerings

For those Metra riders and River North/West Loop dwellers, you now have even more to love about Olgilvie's French Market. One of this city's best hidden secrets, the French Market will be adding new stations to its already impressive resume of fresh produce, quality meats and a well known vendors (RAW, Saigon Sisters and Pastoral, to name a few). Joining the market will be Klay Oven (an Indian restaurant with locations in River North and Oak Park) serving up organic vegetables with Indian flavors, Wisma (a gourmet food and wine shop with two north suburban locations) with prepared salads, sandwiches and desserts, EJ Sushi and Superior Nut and Candy.


If it's been awhile since you made your last visit to the French Market, now seems like the perfect time to give it another go. (131 N. Clinton, Open Monday thru Saturday)

Spa at the Four Seasons: Bourbon Treatments

Looking for new ways to show your guy how much you adore him? Might we suggest adding a little bourbon to the mix? See below for two new spring offerings at the Spa at the Four Seasons that you're not going to want your guy to miss.

Vintage Bourbon Massage
Brown sugar + Kentucky bourbon = the Bourbon Bubbler Scrub. Follow that up with a 55 minute (or if you really want to wow him, an 80 minute) hot stone massage. Cost: 55 minutes $160, 80 minutes $210

Bourbon Retreat
A hand and foot therapy session with a molten bourbon-spiked soak, followed up with a hand/foot massage. Cost: $45 for the mani session, $75 for the pedi. We know guys, it’s “maintenance”, not a mani/pedi. Call it what you wish, it’s amazing.

Post-massage, meet him at the new Four Season’s Allium Bar for a taste of their signature single barrel bourbon.

Image: The making of Allium's rye whiskey at Few Distillery (via Four Season's Chicago)

4/3: Wine & Dine at Paris Club

As if we need more temptation to indulge at Paris Club, let us introduce you to their latest offering: wine dinners. Tuesday, April 3rd, Paris Club will host their first (of hopefully many!) wine dinners featuring a four-course meal paired with wines of Groth Vineyards.

On the menu:
1st up: Charcuterie Board of pâtés/terrines and fine meats
2nd course: Maine Diver Scallop with Spring Pea Ragout and Carrot Butter
Round 3: Cabernet Braised Short Rib with Roasted Fingerling Potato and Haricot Vert
Last but not least: Groth Reserve Sorbet with Sauvignon Blanc Poached Pears

Cost of the event is $75, all inclusive. Reservations can be made at 312-595-0800 or www.parisclubchicago.com.


Want even more wine? Check out today’s Gilt City offer for 33% off a ticket to Austria Uncorked, featuring more than 80 Austrian vineyards. For only $50 (regularly $75), you can sip your way through the vineyards and enjoy tastes from Vivo, N9NE and more, all while benefiting Chicago nonprofit Common Threads.

*photo via Paris Club