Chicago : The List

Celeb Chefs Cover the Market

BuzzEditor — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:56:00 GMT

Rick Bayless at XOCO

Photo: stevenjohnsonphotography

Though fine dining may have cooled off a little as a result of the past year’s economic turmoil, celeb chefs remain as popular as ever. And, fortunately, many of them have opened more casual concepts, allowing diners with tighter budgets to get a taste of their culinary vision. But how do these budget-minded sibs stack up against their high-end counterparts? Read up, and then add your own votes and opinions.

Rick Bayless

Top Chef Master Rick Bayless' tireless efforts to bring the highest-quality Mexican food to the shores of Lake Michigan seem to be paying off – he now has restaurants offering his highly praised comida at either end of the price range.

Topolobampo

445 N. Clark St.
(bet. Hubbard & Illinois Sts.)
Chicago, IL 60610
312-661-1434; reserve online

Food	Decor	Service	Cost
28	23	25	$62

Surveyors swear you get the “best high-end Mexican food in Chicago” (or perhaps “anywhere”), “crafted from the freshest ingredients”, at “creative” “celebrity chef” Rick Bayless’ “must-go” River North “treasure”, the “upscale sister to Frontera Grill” (“with prices to match”); its “cheerful” servers are “extremely knowledgeable”, and the “fantastic wine pairings” and “awesome” margaritas are “standouts” as well; just know that the “intimate”, art-filled “white-tablecloth” setting is “always crowded”, so “make your reservations early.”

Key to Zagat Ratings

XOCO

449 N. Clark St.
(enter on Illinois St.)
Chicago, IL 60610
312-334-3688

Food	Decor	Service	Cost
-	-	-	I

Masterful chef Rick Bayless champions Mexican street food at this all-day counter-service River North arrival with a name that means ‘little sister’ and a menu that includes soups, empanadas and ultrafresh hot tortas, all washed down by beer, wine and spiked hot chocolate (the cacao beans are ground in a street-front window); the sunflower-colored, LEED-certified space features standard and communal seating plus an exposed kitchen with a wood-burning oven.

Key to Zagat Ratings

Paul Kahan

Over the years Paul Kahan has become one the city's most influential chefs/restaurateurs, pulling off both high-end fare at his flagship New American and affordable pub fare at his latest spot (a taqueria is up next).

Blackbird

619 W. Randolph St.
(bet. Desplaines & Jefferson Sts.)
Chicago, IL 60661
312-715-0708; reserve online

Food	Decor	Service	Cost
27	22	24	$64

Paul Kahan and Mike Sheerin’s “exceptional, seasonal” cuisine “sings”, “releasing the inner spirit” of every ingredient at this West Loop New American that’s “still in top form” after 11 years; other assets include a “superb wine list”, “attentive, personable service” and “hip”, “minimalist”, “not-for-romantics” decor that “makes the food the star” – just know that it’s “pricey” and one diner’s “lively” is another’s “deafening”, as “beautiful people” and “enthusiastic foodies” chatter away at “tight tables.”

Key to Zagat Ratings

The Publican

Photo: Steven Johnson

The Publican

837 W. Fulton Mkt.
(Green St.)
Chicago, IL 60607
312-733-9555; reserve online

Food	Decor	Service	Cost
-	-	-	M

The team behind Blackbird and avec heads to the Market District bearing midpriced New American pub fare (emphasizing pork and seafood) and an encyclopedic, global beer list (plenty of Belgians on tap) served in a butter – and gravy-hued space that includes a wraparound communal table and cozy alcoves with swinging doors; N.B. there’s brunch and a family-style dinner on Sundays.

Noodling Around

BuzzEditor — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:47:00 GMT

Mado always offer one or two handmade pasta dishes.

Photo: stevenjohnsonphotography

In an effort to combat pasta's bad post-Atkins rap, the World Pasta Congress of Rome (yes, there is such a thing) has deemed October 25 to be World Pasta Day. In its honor, we thought we’d take this opportunity to highlight some primo pastafarians around town.

Splashy Spots

BuzzEditor — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 20:48:00 GMT

Smith and Wollensky

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

The pleasure of dining by the water is something only an aquaphobe could deny. Yet too often the food at waterside restaurants is a washout. To give you a leg up, here are five such spots that score 19 or above for Food.

Want more aqua-adjacent options? Check out our full list of waterside restaurants.

Eating Au Naturel

BuzzEditor — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:42:00 GMT

Aigre Doux

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

After pigging out this past weekend on ribs, burgers and beer to celebrate our nation's birthday, perhaps you'd like to continue your patriotic eating, albeit the healthy way. To help you out, we've compiled a list of area restaurants that serve American cuisine with a focus on natural and organic ingredients.

Sky's the Limit on Memorial Day

BuzzEditor — Thu, 14 May 2009 16:27:00 GMT

Zed 451

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

Memorial Day, May 25, is almost here, which means it's time for barbecues and trips to scenic vistas. But if you’re the kind who’d rather have someone else do the grilling, and aren’t looking to travel beyond your own city limits, we’ve got some suggestions for you. Celebrate the long weekend with lip-smacking, bib-staining ’cue and escapes to restaurants with rooftops.

Top Barbecue

Rooftop Dining

Do It Outdoors

BuzzEditor — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:37:00 GMT

Park Grill

Photo: James Steinkamp

With warm weather upon us, it's time once again for long meals outside. If you're looking for a spot to dine alfresco and worship the sun, check out our listings of choice outdoor spots in town (including Park Grill, pictured). Or maybe you're more of an outdoor drinking type? Don't worry, we have suggestions for that too!

Tax Recovery

BuzzEditor — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:39:00 GMT

photo: courtesy of Churl

No matter how much you try to forget, your taxes are still due on April 15. But that doesn't mean you can't afford a solid meal – after this rough couple of months, you deserve it! We've pulled out a few cheap eats from our list of Best Buys, where you can reward yourself for tangling with the taxman.

Toasty Tables

BuzzEditor — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 17:59:00 GMT

Fireplace at Violet Hour

Photo: Steven Johnson

We don't want to surprise you or anything, but it's been pretty cold out there lately. If you're looking to warm up while you eat, try these fireplace-equipped spots:

Costa’s: Cozy up next to the fire pit at this Greektown fave (340 S. Halsted; 312-263-9700; reserve online).

Côtes du Rhône: Bistro classics like duck confit, cassoulet and charcuterie taste better fireside at this Edgewater French (5424 N. Broadway; 773-293-2683).

Fireside: This wood-laden American in Roscoe Village lives up to its name (5739 N. Ravenswood Ave.; 773-561-7433).

Grafton Pub & Grill: If a pint of Guinness doesn't warm you up, sitting in the comfy sofas near the fireplace at this Lincoln Square Irish pub should do the trick (4530 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-271-9000).

North Pond: Chow down near the stone hearth at Bruce Sherman’s French-inflected New American in Lincoln Park (2610 N. Cannon Dr.; 773-477-5845; reserve online).

Violet Hour: The only thing warmer than the fireplace at this Wicker Park premium cocktail spot are the stiff whiskey drinks (1520 N. Damen; 773-252-1500).

For more fireside dining options, click here.

Getting Into That Prohibition Spirit

BuzzEditor — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 21:37:00 GMT

photo: Mike Ritter

Seventy-five years ago, on December 5th, 1933, the state of Utah ratified the 21st Amendment and effectively ended the 13-year dry spell in American history known as Prohibition. In the past, that event has mostly interested historians, but in recent years restaurateurs and bar owners have begun honoring the date with an informal "Repeal Day."

So how to celebrate Repeal Day? You don't need to buy a costume or give a gift – all you need to do is kick back and enjoy your constitutional right to imbibe. And what better place to get into the spirit (or spirits, as the case may be) than these five establishments that give off the speakeasy vibe:

Green Door Tavern*

The Green Mill*

1914

Room21* (an Al Capone hideout!)

The Violet Hour

* actual former speakeasies

Chicago's Best Coffee Shops and Diners

BuzzEditor — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 18:54:00 GMT

Edward Hopper's Nighthawks

As befits the home of Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks", Chicago is a city that adores its coffee shops and diners. We love their promise of simple, well-cooked food and – especially in these turbulent economic times – an affordable menu. So if you're looking for a new hangout that won't break the bank, consider these Top Coffee Shops and Diners from the 2009 Chicago Restaurants guide.

Manny's

1141 S. Jefferson St.; 312-939-2855

5700 S. Cicero Ave.; 773-948-6300

“The local color is laid on as thick as the corned beef” at this beloved South Loop breakfast-and-lunch “institution” (and its Southwest Side franchise), an “anachronistic” “steam-table cafeteria, with sandwiches made to order”, peopled “by old-timers, new wavers, tourists and politicians” enjoying a taste of “true Chicago” – so “just yell out what you want” to the “countermen, who are caricatures of themselves”; N.B. they now serve dinner and alcohol, and take credit cards.

Glenn's Diner and Seafood House

1820 W. Montrose Ave.; 773-506-1720

The “blackboard fish specials” feature “excellent fresh catches daily” at this “casual” Ravenswood “haunt” where Traditional American “upscale diner food” meets a “great staff”; its “bright, cheery” (“not romantic”) digs are among the “best” around for a “chilled-out breakfast or dinner with friends” “at a low price” – so it’s no surprise surveyors ask “why didn’t I hear about this place sooner?”

The Original Pancake House / Walker Bros. Original Pancake House

Multiple Locations

A “seemingly endless variety of pancakes” (especially the “don’t-miss” apple and “unusual” Dutch Baby versions) makes fans flip for this “always-crowded” “real-deal” American chain that supplies “Sunday morning comfort” for many; service is “fast (if not so friendly)” and the price is right, but “better coffee would be an improvement”; N.B. not all locations are open for dinner.

Orange

75 W. Harrison St.; 312-447-1000

3231 N. Clark St.; 773-549-4400

2011 W. Roscoe St.; 773-248-0999

For “out-of-the-norm” Eclectic nourishment like “chai French toast”, “fruit sushi” and “surprisingly good orange coffee”, consider these “innovative”, “arty” breakfast/brunch/lunch brothers; their “funky” (if “too cute”) settings are full of “friendly service” that “struggles at times with the weekend crowds”, and tabs can inch up high “for breakfast”, yet fans find them “worth getting up early for”; N.B. the Lakeview and Printer’s Row locations are BYO, while Roscoe Village has a liquor license and is open for dinner Wednesday–Sunday.

Milk & Honey

1920 W. Division St.; 773-395-9434

Expect New American food that’s “particularly fresh” at this “cutie” of a Wicker Parker, where the morning meal is “better than breakfast in bed” (they mix “amazing” “granola you might dream about”) and the “fantastic sandwiches” and “interesting salads” make for a “lovely lunch” – “whether you sit indoors or out”; “only counter orders are taken”, and the “lines on weekends are out the door”, but boosters who believe it’s “worth it” (“if you can stand the cell phone and stroller” crowd) lament that “they’re not open late enough.”

For more Chicago Top Lists, click here.

The Best Hot Dogs in Chicago

BuzzEditor — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 20:50:00 GMT

Chicago-style hot dogs from Hot Doug's

Photo: nickd

The Windy City is famous for a number of gastronomical delights ranging from deep dish pizza to Charlie Trotter's. But when push comes to shove, and it often does, our favorite Chicagoan contribution to world cuisine just may be the one that you can eat standing up: the Chicago-style hot dog. (For the uninitiated, it's an all-beef dog in a poppy-seed bun topped with mustard, onion, sweet pickle relish, dill pickle, tomato, peppers and possibly cucumber slices.) Whether you're a hot dog aficionado or just want to see what all the fuss is about, check out our Top Hot Dog/Burgers list fresh from the 2009 Chicago Restaurants guide. Just remember, ketchup is verboten!

Hot Doug's

3324 N. California Ave.; 773-279-9550

This Northwest Side “temple” – the highest-scoring hot dog stand in the history of the Chicago Survey – is lorded over by “rebel-with-a-clue” Doug Sohn, whose “affordable gourmet” “encased meats” include “elk, pheasant, gator” and “cranberry-infused buffalo”, plus there are “duck fat fries” on Fridays and Saturdays; lazy pups lament “lines around the block” (though they “move at an amazing clip”) to get into the “intentionally schlocky” “Elvis-and-sausage–themed” space, which closes at 4 PM daily; N.B. no credit cards.

Superdawg Drive-In

5700 S. Cicero Ave.; 773-948-6300

6363 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 773-763-0660

This “icon” of “Americana” on the Northwest Side is a “true drive-in” “of the 1950s era”, delivering “dawgs to die for” in “amusing little boxes” plus “deeelicious” shakes and fries – all the ingredients of “perfect summer evenings” (and travelers can get a taste at the Midway Airport outpost); besides, you “gotta love the two flirting hot dogs on the roof”, though smart alecks “don’t understand why there isn’t a little” cocktail weenie up there too, since the couple’s “been standing there for years – perhaps they should lie down!”

Gold Coast Dogs

225 S. Canal St.; 312-258-8585

159 N. Wabash Ave.; 312-917-1677

1429 W. Montrose Ave.; 773-472-3600

2349 W. Howard St.; 773-338-0900

Terminal 5; 773-462-0125

Terminal 3; 773-462-9942

1845 Tower Dr., Glenview; 847-724-0123

“Drunk or sober”, fans say “arf!” to this litter of “no-atmosphere”, “counter-service” hot dog stands supplying “one helluva” “quintessential Chicago dog” plus “awesome cheese fries”; naysayers neuter this pack, though, vaunting “better versions” of these vittles elsewhere.

The Wiener's Circle

2622 N. Clark St.; 773-477-7444

“Gimme a charred red hot dammit!” demand respondents who relish the “funny, filthy-mouthed” “late-night” shtick (from customers and staff) as much as the “outstanding Chicago dogs” and “amazing cheeseburgers” at this “one-of-a-kind” Lincoln Park “sitcom-in-waiting”; still, be warned that “the love goes in the bun, not the decor”, there’s “almost nowhere to sit” and some say “never go here sober.”

For more Chicago Top Lists, click here.

Paul Newman's Legacy

BuzzEditor — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 19:17:00 GMT

Legendary actor Paul Newman passed away over the weekend. Although best known as a movie star, he was also renowned as an entrepreneur/philanthropist thanks to his Newman’s Own brand of food products, which began as a line of salad dressing and grew to encompass everything from popcorn to lemonade to spaghetti sauce. All profits from this enterprise were donated to various charities, allowing him to harness his global fame for the common good. Not incidentally, he was also a racecar driver and even a restaurateur (Dressing Room in Westport, CT).

Ultimately, his legacy lies in his movies. As a tribute to his wide-ranging body of work, here is a list of 20 notable Newman films, rated and reviewed by our voters. It is excerpted from the 2009 Zagat Movie Guide.

Key to Zagat Ratings

Absence of Malice

1981 | Directed by Sydney Pollack | With Paul Newman, Sally Field, Bob Balaban | 116 minutes | Rated PG

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
21	25	21	20

"Newman and Field ignite the screen" in this "textured" "hard-hitting" courtroom drama demonstrating how "guilt by association" causes a "newspaper to ruin a man's career"; most say that the "irresponsible press" is a topic made for the movies, but some feel this "slight" effort "should have been better" – starting with the "not-believable ending."

Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid

1969 | Directed by George Roy Hill | With Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Katharine Ross | 110 minutes | Rated PG

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
26	26	25	25

"Compulsive charmers" Newman and Redford play a pair of wisecracking, "magnetic" "antiheroes" trying to stay ahead of the law in this "outstanding" Western "buddy movie", loaded with "adventure and humor"; it fuses a "snappy" script, Burt Bacharach soundtrack and "too many classic scenes to count" into a "sentimental favorite" that's "never boring" from start to "unforgettable" finish.

Cars

2006 | Directed by John Lasseter, Joe Ranft | Animated | 116 minutes | Rated G

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
24	-	23	27

Disney/Pixar's "well-oiled" animation outfit rigs a "familiar fish-out-of- water story" ("Doc Hollywood", anyone?) to "talking cars" and rolls out this "delightful" joyride featuring "exceptional" renderings and "adorable" vocal characterizations by Owen Wilson, Paul Newman and comic Larry The Cable Guy; parents appreciate the "great" soundtrack and "offbeat" cultural references – real lifesavers when the young 'uns "watch it for the 30th time."

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

1958 | Directed by Richard Brooks | With Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, Burl Ives | 108 minutes | Not Rated

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
25	27	24	23

"Man, these people have problems": "steamy Liz" "in that white slip" and a "dynamite" Newman "couldn't possibly look better" as they "burn up the screen" in this "sex-soaked" Tennessee Williams drama of "love, rejection" and "Southern family politics"; the "towering" Ives presides as the ragin' Big Daddy, adding an "incredibly interesting" Lear-like thread to all that "eye candy."

Color of Money, The

1986 | Directed by Martin Scorsese | With Paul Newman, Tom Cruise, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio | 119 minutes | Rated R

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
16	21	16	17

Something different from Martin Scorsese, this "generation-later" "follow-up to The Hustler" details how a washed-up billiards baron molds an up-and-comer into his protégé; though somewhat "predictable", "excellent acting" from the "powerhouse Cruise" and the "finely tuned", Oscar-winning Newman "saves it."

Cool Hand Luke

1967 | Directed by Stuart Rosenberg | With Paul Newman, George Kennedy, Strother Martin | 126 minutes | Not Rated

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
26	27	24	22

"One of the best movie lines ever" ('what we have here is a failure to communicate') and that "famous hard-boiled egg scene" make this "damn great" Deep South prison drama memorable – not to mention the efforts of "consummate pro" Newman playing one cool con on a "chain gang", abetted by a "strong" Kennedy, who grabbed an Oscar for his supporting work.

Exodus

1960 | Directed by Otto Preminger | With Paul Newman, Eva Marie Saint, Sal Mineo | 210 minutes | Not Rated

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
23	23	26	25

An "all-star cast" drives this story of the "founding of modern Israel", a "stunning", "satisfying" Preminger epic "faithfully" adapted from Leon Uris' best-seller; fans single out the star turn from a "too-gorgeous-for-words" Newman "in his prime", and if the plot has some "bathos" mixed into its "high drama", it's ultimately a "moving" moving picture.

Fort Apache, The Bronx

1981 | Directed by Daniel Petrie | With Paul Newman, Ken Wahl, Rachel Ticotin, Ed Asner | 125 minutes | Rated R

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
21	23	21	20

Considered "shocking in its day", this "gritty" snapshot of a "city overtaken by crime" set a "new standard for cop dramas" with its "tell-it- like-it-is" depiction of hookers, junkies and the NYPD; "not-bad-on-the- eyes" Newman is "at his acting best" as the veteran "good guy" on the force, with strong backup from a "wonderful ensemble."

Harper

1966 | Directed by Jack Smight | With Paul Newman, Lauren Bacall, Julie Harris, Arthur Hill, Janet Leigh, Pamela Tiffin, Robert Wagner, Shelley Winters | 121 minutes | Not Rated

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
21	23	20	21

Renowned for its all-star, scenery-shredding cast, this "fun" private *** flick features a "vintage Paul" hot on the trail of a missing husband; if the "plot is entirely predictable", "none of the actors are", with special kudos to an "entertaining" Bacall as a witchy wife and a "classic" Winters as a blousy, boozy starlet.

Hud

1963 | Directed by Martin Ritt | With Paul Newman, Melvyn Douglas, Patricia Neal, Brandon De Wilde | 112 minutes | Not Rated

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
26	28	24	24

"Stud muffin" Newman is at his "bad boy best" playing an "alienated", "black-hearted" cowboy in this "truly adult" "modern Western" about a "struggle between a father and son"; sure, "Neal got the Oscar" (as did "heartbreaker Douglas" and that "gorgeous black-and-white cinematography"), but in the end, Paul's "heartbreakingly cool" anti-hero gets the most reaction.

Hudsucker Proxy, The

1994 | Directed by Joel Coen | With Tim Robbins, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Paul Newman | 111 minutes | Rated PG

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
22	22	21	23

"Big business" and the "bootstrappy American dream" are satirized in this "sly satire" via the Coen brothers about a "plucky mailroom clerk" who "invents the hula hoop" ("ya know, for kids") and becomes president of the company; despite a "refreshingly cynical" script peppered with "dialogue so crisp you can hear the gum smacking", a few find it a bit "odd", though it's certainly "never dull."

Hustler, The

1961 | Directed by Robert Rossen | With Paul Newman, Jackie Gleason, Piper Laurie | 134 minutes | Not Rated

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
25	26	24	22

"Dark, tense and beautifully delivered", this "ultimate movie about winning" is also a "love poem to the game of pool", featuring "Newman on a roll" opposite Gleason in a rare dramatic turn that nearly "steals the picture"; it's "convincing", "gripping" stuff, and though Paul reprised the character of Eddie Felson in The Color of Money, connoisseurs claim this first take is so "much better."

Road to Perdition

2002 | Directed by Sam Mendes | With Tom Hanks, Paul Newman, Daniel Craig, Jude Law | 117 minutes | Rated R

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
23	26	22	25

"Hanks proves his versatility" in this "evocative period piece", playing a "cold-blooded hit man" for the Irish mafia during the Depression; the "intense journey" is "impeccably done", with Newman in "stellar form", Oscar-winning cinematography that will "take your breath away" (notably that "tommy gun scene in the rain") and "top-notch screenwriting" that "stays true to the novel."

Silent Movie

1976 | Directed by Mel Brooks | With Mel Brooks, Marty Feldman, Dom DeLuise, Sid Caesar | 87 minutes | Rated PG

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
20	20	19	20

"Kudos" to Brooks for ditching dialogue and scoring "audience roars" with "clever" sight gags in this "entertaining" send-up of silent films; expect a parade of "star" cameos (Burt Reynolds, Liza Minnelli, Paul Newman), though the "best moment" belongs to mime Marcel Marceau, who utters the picture's "only spoken word."

Slap Shot

1977 | Directed by George Roy Hill | With Paul Newman, Michael Ontkean, Strother Martin | 122 minutes | Rated R

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
22	18	19	17

Right up there with the "funniest sports flicks", this puckish comedy finds "Newman on skates" as the "foul-mouthed coach" of a "dark horse" minor-league hockey team with a "strange way" of turning every face-off into a riot on ice; it "epitomizes the goonery" of the high-sticking '70s, resulting in "crazy", "profane" and "fairly violent" fare that hardcore fans "cannot live without."

Sting, The

1973 | Directed by George Roy Hill | With Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw | 129 minutes | Rated PG

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
27	26	27	26

"Deftly" charming its way to Best Picture honors, this "classy" comedy "caper" "succeeds in spades" as a "likable", "fast-paced" vehicle for Newman and Redford, radiating "great rapport" as a pair of grifters playing a gangster for a sucker in Depression-era Chicago; a "funny, intriguing" "period piece" set to "elegant" Joplin rags, it raises the "suspense" stakes with "masterful" plotting and a final "zinger" that saves the sharpest sting for last.

Sweet Bird of Youth

1962 | Directed by Richard Brooks | With Paul Newman, Geraldine Page, Ed Begley, Shirley Knight | 120 minutes | Not Rated

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
24	28	24	23

A "young, gorgeous" Newman and "brilliant" Page ("what a combo!") reprise their stage roles in this cinematic adaptation of Tennessee Williams' play about a wannabe actor/gigolo and a faded, Sunset Boulevard–esque movie queen; sure, the story has been somewhat sanitized for the big screen, but most birdies still tweet "how sweet it is . . ."

Torn Curtain

1966 | Directed by Alfred Hitchcock | With Paul Newman, Julie Andrews, Lila Kedrova, Wolfgang Kieling | 128 minutes | Rated PG

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
23	24	23	22

This "compelling" Cold War spy thriller via Alfred Hitchcock concerns an American physicist who defects to East Germany, bent on espionage; while it "isn't the greatest Newman or Andrews" effort, it still "has is moments", notably the 'silent murder' sequence and Lila Kedrova's "compelling" supporting role as a down-and-out countess.

Towering Inferno, The

1974 | Directed by John Guillermin, Irwin Allen | With Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, William Holden | 165 minutes | Rated PG

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
18	17	18	22

"Make sure you know where all the exits are" before settling into this "big, bad '70s disaster" flick starring a skyscraper, a fire and a "rogues' gallery of great actors"; although the "passable" "special effects were top-drawer for its time", cynical sorts snort it's more of a "made-for- TV movie" by modern standards.

Verdict, The

1982 | Directed by Sidney Lumet | With Paul Newman, Charlotte Rampling, Jack Warden | 129 minutes | Rated R

Overall	Acting	Story	Prod.
23	25	23	20

A "David-vs.-Goliath" legal struggle is the underpinning of this "underrated" courtroom drama about a "burned-out lawyer trying one last case to keep from going under"; Newman's "intense", "tour-de-force" turn is one of his "greatest" roles (leaving many "stunned" that the Oscar eluded him), while the "mesmerizing" Rampling "excels" as the love interest.

Summer Whistle-Wetters

BuzzEditor — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:00:00 GMT

The Taylor Street Martini at Fulton's on the River

photo: Courtesy of Fulton's on the River

There's no denying the appeal of a cold drink on a hot summer night (or day), and some Chicago restaurants are coming up with ultracreative concoctions. Here are a few tempting options:

Atwood Cafe combines Popsicles and booze to bring you "popsicle-tinis," frozen treats for adults like the Creamsicle (housemade vanilla vodka and tangerine Dreamsicle, $10), Fudgesicle (Belvedere vodka, Godiva white chocolate liqueur and Fudgesicle, $12) and Cherry Bomb Pop (Maker's Mark bourbon and sour cherry Popsicle, $12).

Herbs from the garden are key at Nacional 27, where the cocktail list includes the Cuba (10 Cane rum, grapefruit juice, Grand Marnier, Luxardo maraschino liqueur with a float of Cuban oregano and lime, $12), Summer Breeze (Navan vanilla cognac liqueur, English cucumbers, lemon thyme, Fresca and lemon, $11) and Ham & Cheese (Iberico ham–infused Hennessy VSOP with Caribbean cinnamon–wildflower honey, lime juice, Manchego cheese tuille and fresh rosemary, $14).

Fulton’s on the River features hometown-themed drinks like the Taylor Street Martini (vodka-based, with a tomato-basil-mozzarella Little Italy inspiration, $12) and Captain Streeter, a fruity rum drink named after the Michigan boat captain who ran aground off the Chicago coast and developed what later became Streeterville ($10).

Wallet-Friendly Eats in Honor of Tax Day

BuzzEditor — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 15:49:00 GMT

April 15th doesn't have to be all bad news. Celebrate tax day with specials around town set to provide relief.

At Pops for Champagne, $10.40 deals include bar plates prepared by new executive chef Andrew Brochu (ex Alinea), glasses of premium bubbly and gift certificates worth $10.40 given at the stroke of 10:40 PM. Café Matou gets in the spirit of tax day by offering a special cocktail through the end of April called Le Percepteur ("Tax Man"), made with 360 Vodka, F. Meyer Eau-de-vie de Mirabelle and Grand Marnier – plus “lots” of bitters ($9.50). And the Tax Day Lunch Special at Ai has them declaring that on April 15th all lunch entrees normally priced at $13.50 will be $10.99. These include maki moriwase, tuna don, unagi don, chicken teriyaki and pistachio-crusted salmon teriyaki.

For more ways to stretch your dollars, check out these spots from Zagat's Best Buys list:

Open Your Eyes to Sleepers

BuzzEditor — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 21:11:00 GMT

Sure, everyone loves to hear about hot new restaurants, but equally intriguing are sleepers – those lesser-known gems that folks in-the-know like to keep to themselves in order to keep the crowds at bay. Whether it’s a cozy little corner, an out-of-the-way swingin’ spot or just a friendly place with fantastic food, the sleepers on the following list can help rouse you out of the dining doldrums.

Katsu

photo: Diane Alexander White

Dorado

2301 W. Foster Ave.; 773-561-3780

The last time there’s been such a winning combination as this Mexican-French fusion was when the Captain met Tennille – but their duck nachos probably can’t compare to those at this bright, cheerful Lincoln Square hole-in-the-wall.

Katsu Japanese

2651 W. Peterson Ave.; 773-784-3383

Katsu and his wife will treat you like a longtime friend at this off-the-beaten-path Northwest Side Japanese starring sublime sushi and dishes not ordinarily found in other restaurants.

Luna Caprese

2239 N. Clybourn Ave.; 773-281-4825

When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie come to this Lincoln Parker that makes a great date spot with its exposed-brick walls, well-priced wine list and a chef-owner who creates light Southern Italian fare featuring daily handmade pastas.

Maiz

1041 N. California Ave.; 773-276-3149

Maiz is the word and the secret ingredient at this Humboldt Park Mexican (now in its third location); low prices seal the deal.

Le P’tit Paris

260 E. Chestnut St.; 312-787-8260

You won’t find Norm and Cliff here, but this candlelit Streeterville Continental-French is so friendly that our surveyors call it a French version of Cheers.

Chicago : The List

Celeb Chefs Cover the Market

Rick Bayless at XOCO

Photo: stevenjohnsonphotography

Rick Bayless

445 N. Clark St. (bet. Hubbard & Illinois Sts.) Chicago, IL 60610 312-661-1434; reserve online

449 N. Clark St. (enter on Illinois St.) Chicago, IL 60610 312-334-3688

Paul Kahan

619 W. Randolph St. (bet. Desplaines & Jefferson Sts.) Chicago, IL 60661 312-715-0708; reserve online

The Publican

Photo: Steven Johnson

837 W. Fulton Mkt. (Green St.) Chicago, IL 60607 312-733-9555; reserve online

Noodling Around

Mado always offer one or two handmade pasta dishes.

Photo: stevenjohnsonphotography

Splashy Spots

Smith and Wollensky

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

Eating Au Naturel

Aigre Doux

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

Sky's the Limit on Memorial Day

Zed 451

Photo: courtesy of the restaurant

Do It Outdoors

Park Grill

Photo: James Steinkamp

Tax Recovery

photo: courtesy of Churl

Toasty Tables

Fireplace at Violet Hour

Photo: Steven Johnson

Getting Into That Prohibition Spirit

photo: Mike Ritter

Room21* (an Al Capone hideout!)

* actual former speakeasies

Chicago's Best Coffee Shops and Diners

Edward Hopper's Nighthawks

1141 S. Jefferson St.; 312-939-2855

5700 S. Cicero Ave.; 773-948-6300

1820 W. Montrose Ave.; 773-506-1720

75 W. Harrison St.; 312-447-1000

3231 N. Clark St.; 773-549-4400

2011 W. Roscoe St.; 773-248-0999

1920 W. Division St.; 773-395-9434

The Best Hot Dogs in Chicago

Chicago-style hot dogs from Hot Doug's

Photo: nickd

3324 N. California Ave.; 773-279-9550

5700 S. Cicero Ave.; 773-948-6300

6363 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 773-763-0660

225 S. Canal St.; 312-258-8585

159 N. Wabash Ave.; 312-917-1677

1429 W. Montrose Ave.; 773-472-3600

2349 W. Howard St.; 773-338-0900

Terminal 5; 773-462-0125

Terminal 3; 773-462-9942

1845 Tower Dr., Glenview; 847-724-0123

2622 N. Clark St.; 773-477-7444

Paul Newman's Legacy

Absence of Malice

1981 | Directed by Sydney Pollack | With Paul Newman, Sally Field, Bob Balaban | 116 minutes | Rated PG

Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid

1969 | Directed by George Roy Hill | With Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Katharine Ross | 110 minutes | Rated PG

Cars

2006 | Directed by John Lasseter, Joe Ranft | Animated | 116 minutes | Rated G

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

1958 | Directed by Richard Brooks | With Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, Burl Ives | 108 minutes | Not Rated

Color of Money, The

1986 | Directed by Martin Scorsese | With Paul Newman, Tom Cruise, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio | 119 minutes | Rated R

Cool Hand Luke

1967 | Directed by Stuart Rosenberg | With Paul Newman, George Kennedy, Strother Martin | 126 minutes | Not Rated

Exodus

1960 | Directed by Otto Preminger | With Paul Newman, Eva Marie Saint, Sal Mineo | 210 minutes | Not Rated

Fort Apache, The Bronx

1981 | Directed by Daniel Petrie | With Paul Newman, Ken Wahl, Rachel Ticotin, Ed Asner | 125 minutes | Rated R

Harper

1966 | Directed by Jack Smight | With Paul Newman, Lauren Bacall, Julie Harris, Arthur Hill, Janet Leigh, Pamela Tiffin, Robert Wagner, Shelley Winters | 121 minutes | Not Rated

Hud

1963 | Directed by Martin Ritt | With Paul Newman, Melvyn Douglas, Patricia Neal, Brandon De Wilde | 112 minutes | Not Rated

445 N. Clark St.
(bet. Hubbard & Illinois Sts.)
Chicago, IL 60610
312-661-1434; reserve online

449 N. Clark St.
(enter on Illinois St.)
Chicago, IL 60610
312-334-3688

619 W. Randolph St.
(bet. Desplaines & Jefferson Sts.)
Chicago, IL 60661
312-715-0708; reserve online

837 W. Fulton Mkt.
(Green St.)
Chicago, IL 60607
312-733-9555; reserve online