Food and festive treats add to holiday enjoyment

By Marie Balice Ward 

Visions of sugarplums and other goodies may dance in our heads at this time of year, and you need to buy those goodies or have a few good meals somewhere. There is no better place than this community for the culinary delights of the holiday season. 

BAKED GOODS

Ace Bakery, 3241 S. Halsted St., (312) 225-4973, fax (312) 225-6849. Cookies, pies, layer cakes, cheesecakes, donuts, coffeecakes, caramel apples, chocolate covered strawberries, and a selection of homemade breads only begin to describe the sweets at Ace Bakery. In addition, special orders for cakes and other dessert specialties are welcome. Ace Bakery also provides petite pastries for weddings, showers, and other party sweet tables. Hours: Daily 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bake for Me! 608 W. Roosevelt Rd., (312) 957-1994, and 350 N. Clark St., (312) 644-7750. Bake for Me! features elegant festive cakes, wedding cakes, fancy tortes, pastries, and assorted cookie trays. Other specialties include fresh strawberry and chocolate mousses, carrot, and German chocolate cakes. A special cake is featured every month for office birthdays and other occasions. Visit www.bakeforme.com for details about the monthly specials. Eight- and ten-inch cakes are always available and serve up to 16 people. Custom or larger cakes for 50 or more people are available by calling 24 hours in advance. Bake for Me! offeres a wide variety of luncheon salads. Hours:  Mon. through Fri. 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Clark St. location is closed on Sat., and both locations are closed on Sun.

Ferrara Bakery, 2210 W. Taylor St., (312) 666-2200.  Since 1908, Ferrara has made many of the Italian treats not found at other bakeries plus plenty of American favorites. Choices include special cookies, cannoli, miniature and specialty pastries, assorted biscotti, chocolate covered almonds, and cakes for all occasions. Lunch and dinner items are available. Ferrara also offers cappuccino and espresso. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sun., 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

 

 

Poppie’s Dough Bake Shop, 2411 S. Wallace St., (312) 949-0404, fax (312) 949-0505. Among the baked goods offered at Poppie’s are specialty, fresh, and packaged cookies, cupcakes, biscotti, palmier, muffins, scones, Danish, cakes, cakes to order, pies, coffee cakes, fruit bars, cheesecakes, plain and filled croissants, brioche, cinnamon and pecan rolls, turnovers, “pillows,” donuts, 25 bagel flavors, and frozen dough. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Scafuri Bakery, 1337 W. Taylor St., (312) 733-8881. This specialty Italian bakery features hand-made cookies, cakes, and other treats from authentic recipes. A variety of breads are baked fresh each day. Scafuri also features frozen entrees made from scratch: ravioli, cheese manicotti, meatballs, lasagna, cavatelli, bracciole (meat rolls), eggplant Parmesan, and other selections. Hours: Tues. through Sun. 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Closed Mon.

BARS/RESTAURANTS

BeviAmo Wine Bar, 1358 W. Taylor St., (312) 455-8255.  In Little Italy, the newly remodeled décor of this cozy bar enhances the experience of an extensive selection of international wines. Wine tasting events are featured every Tuesday from 8 to 11 p.m. For those seeking something other than wine, martinis are served for $5 on Monday nights. Mellow, laid back vibe entertainment is provided by Dave Johnson who sings and plays the piano every Friday night from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. There is something for everyone at BeviAmo. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 5:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Sat. 5:30 p.m. to 3 a.m.; Sun. 6:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Gem-Bar Lounge & Grill, 2700 S. Loomis St., (773) 847-8140. A full bar, known for the “biggest burgers in town,” this bar and grill—recently listed on MetroMix—is located “where Bridgeport begins.” Appetizers, pizza, salads, and sandwiches are made from the freshest ingredients. Family owned since 1920, Gen-Bar Lounge & Grill for the new year will offer live music weekly. “At the River, drop in” is the establishment's motto as it is located on the south branch of the south fork of the Chicago River. Private dining area accommodates up to 50 persons. There is abundant street parking. Hours: Sun. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sat. 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.

M Lounge, 1520 S. Wabash Ave., (312) 447-0201, fax (312) 922-7120,  info@mloungechicago.com, www.mloungechicago.com. M Lounge is an intimate martini lounge featuring jazz music, an array of specialty martinis, and fine spirits. Enjoy live jazz every Wednesday from 7 to10 p.m. There is no cover charge. M Lounge is an exceptional alternative to the sports bar scene for Monday night football, complete with free pizza and drink specials. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with an all inclusive package including open bar, buffet dinner, champagne toast, party favors, and door prizes. M Lounge also serves well as a holiday party venue. Call for information. Early booking is recommended. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. 4 p.m. to midnight; Fri. 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Sat. 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. M Lounge is closed on Sun. for private events.

Mitchell’s Tap (formerly Puffer’s Bar), 3356 S. Halsted St., (773) 927-6073. Mitchell’s claims the largest selection of domestic and imported beers in Bridgeport. For all sporting events, before, during, and after, Mitchell’s is conveniently located ten minutes from downtown. Food is served at Mitchell’s, including complimentary hot dogs on Sat. afternoons, from noon on. There is a complimentary lunch for all Bears Sun. home games. During the Bears Game on Sun., Dec. 17, there will be a chili cook-off at Mitchell’s. Hours: Sun. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.

Little Joe’s Circle Lounge, 1041 W. Taylor St., (312) 829-5888, fax (312) 829-0261. Established in 1946, Little Joe’s now is operated by the third generation. The atmosphere is very comfortable and inviting, offering the highest standards in hospitality. Antiques and history dominate the décor. The simple fare is well prepared, abundant, and very competitively priced. Kitchen hours: Mon. through Sat. 5 to 9 p.m.; bar hours: Mon. through Sat. 5 to 11 p.m. Closed on Sun.

Spectrum Bar and Grill, 233 S. Halsted St., (312) 715-0770. A sports bar with seven TV screens for all sporting events especially Bulls and Blackhawks games, the establishment offers bar games including darts and Golden Tee golf. A pub menu is available until 3 a.m. including sandwiches, pizza, and dinners. Hours: Sun. 5 p.m. to 4 a.m., Sat. 5 p.m. to 5 a.m., and Mon. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.

Union Park Lounge, 228 S. Racine Ave., (312) 243-9002. A bar and contemporary American cuisine restaurant for about 350 patrons, Union Park Lounge now in its second year, continues to serve daily specials. Carryout also is available. Hours: Sun. through Fri. 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Sat. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

DINING

Al’s Beef, 1079 W. Taylor St., (312) 226-4017. Since 1938, Al’s has been serving the Taylor Street community and beyond with Italian beef, Italian sausage, hot dogs, Polish, and other selections all made on the premises along with the sweet and hot peppers and fresh-cut fries. The bread is from Gonnella Bakery. In addition to its eat-in restaurant, Al’s offers carryout and ships across the country. Winter hours: Mon. through Thurs. 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Fri. and Sat. 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Bacchanalia Ristorante, 2413 S. Oakley Ave., (773) 254-6555, fax (773) 254-6565. Bacchanalia means “feast,” and it delivers on its name with regional home cooking from the Luca and Pisa areas of Italy. Located in the Heart of Chicago community, Bacchanalia has been family owned and operated since 1979. All dishes are made to order with the finest ingredients; nothing is pre-made. House specialties include chicken Vesuvio, filet mignon, veal Parmigiana, and a wide range of pasta entrees. Carry-outs are available. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sat. 4 to 11 p.m.; Sun. 3:30 to 9 p.m.

Bruna's Ristorante, 2424 S. Oakley Ave. , (773) 254-5550. Since 1933, Bruna's has served fine Italian cuisine including a variety of pasta dishes and meat and fish entrees. Some of the most popular dishes are veal scaloppini, mussels marinara, and penne ala puttanesca. Specials are offered daily. Bruna's also has an extensive wine list and imports specially selected Chianti and vino nobile di Montepulciano. The most popular dessert is Bruna’s own tiramisu. Other popular dessert specials include chocolate mousse cake and wild berry tart. Gelato is also available, with pistachio being a favorite. Reservations are accepted. Carryout is available. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri. and Sat 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sun. 1 to 10 p.m.

Burger Baron, 1381 W. Grand Ave, (312) 733-3285, www.burgerbaron.net. Home of the half-pound burger, Burger Baron serves as variety of fast foods such as Italian beef, chicken sandwiches, Philly cheese steak sandwiches, gyros, Polish sausage sandwiches, and breakfast egg sandwiches and other breakfast specialties. Carryout is available. Orders may be faxed at the regular phone number by calling first. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sat. 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Sun.

Damenzo’s Pizza, 2324 W. Taylor St., (312) 421-1142. Pizzas of all shapes – thin, thick, and stuffed, with a wide selection of toppings¾ are served at Damenzo’s. There also are entrees such as lasagna, ravioli, eggplant parmesan, and Damenzo’s generous-sized sandwiches including Italian beef, Italian sausage, and meatball. Catering is available. Hours: Sun. through Thurs. 10 a.m. to midnight, Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Eppel’s Restaurant, 554 W. Roosevelt Rd., (312) 922-2206. A 45-year-old breakfast and lunch eatery, Eppel’s specializes in full breakfasts including grits and ham off the bone as well as a wide selection of egg dishes. Known as a business lunch establishment, Eppel’s offers a large variety of sandwiches as well as daily specials and select ethnic dishes, fresh fruit, fresh fruit plates, and salads. The restaurant seats 100. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 4:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily; Sat. 3:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sun. from 3:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Carryout is available. Parking is also available.

Franco’s Ristorante, 300 W. 31st St., (312) 225-9566. Located just north of U.S. Cellular Field, Franco’s is known as “the small place with the big taste.” Open since 1989, it offers the finest multi-regional Italian cuisine including made-to-order pastas, gnocchi, linguini with clams, and fettuccine with chicken and mushrooms as well as a variety of fish and meat selections and daily specials. One of Franco’s trademark entrees is a 2-1/2 inch thick pork chop served with oven-roasted potatoes. The finest ingredients are used for its homemade recipes. The 40-seat eatery has an excellent wine list and full bar. Its sister restaurant is Franconello, located in the Beverly community, open since 1994. Call Franco’s for all your catering needs. Hours: Mon. 3 to 9 p.m.; Tues. through Thurs. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sat. 3 to 10 p.m.

Gio’s, 2724 S. Lowe Ave., (312) 225-6368, www.gioscafe.com. Featuring Southern Italian cuisine – especially from Sicily—Gio’s was ranked one of 2004’s top ten favorites by Channel 7’s James Ward during his New Year’s Eve broadcast. Ward said, “a Bridgeport neighborhood surprise: the amazing Gio’s, a little wonder restaurant and retail store offering top Italian dishes at lunch and dinner. It’s a festive BYOB party place.” Gio’s offers daily specials at good prices. Gio’s numerous specialties include fresh fish and meat specials, cavatelli vodka, chicken Vesuvio, arrancini (rice balls), and sausage and peppers appetizers. Everything is made to order. Nothing is pre-cooked. Open Christmas Eve for catering from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pre-ordering is recommended. Carry out, delivery, and catering are available. Hours: Mon. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Healthy Food Lithuanian Restaurant, 3226 S. Halsted St., (312) 326-2724.  Lithuanian artifacts, hand-woven linen tapestry, wood paneling, and wood carvings enhance the decor of this authentic 1950s-style restaurant. American and Lithuanian specialties have been featured here for more than 55 years. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Healthy Food's selections are made of all natural (no preservatives or additives) items. Among the choices for breakfast are vegetable omelettes, blynas (a crepe-like pancake filled with cheese and topped with freshly prepared fruit), and more. Healthy Food also offers roast duck Lithuanian style, combination platters, Lithuanian sausage, kugelis, koldunai (meat dumplings), and many other selections. Juices are freshly squeezed. Soups are homemade and include sauerkraut, cream of beet, and barley. There are special desserts such as “five fruit,” rhubarb pies, Lithuanian Napoleon torte, and homemade cheesecake. Cash only. Street parking is most often easily available. Hours: Tues. and Wed., 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thurs. through Sat. 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sun. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Howie’s, 1310 S. Wabash Ave., (312) 461-0944, fax (312) 461-0955. An independent eatery opened about the years ago is a popular destination for South Loop residents and visitors alike. Seven days a week, Howie’s serves hamburgers, Philly steaks, hot dogs, grilled and fried fish, chicken sandwiches, and other selections, all made to order. There also are entrée-size salads, vegetarian and beef chili, and homemade soups. Breakfast is served all day. Sweet treats include milk shakes, ice cream, cookies and other desserts. The eatery accommodates 50 people. Private parties are welcome. Carry out, catering, and delivery are available. Winter hours: Mon. through Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sun. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lalo’s, 733 W. Maxwell St., (312) 455-9380, fax (312) 455-9382, www.lalos.com (then click on the locations link). There are several locations through the Chicago area and suburbs. Authentic Mexican specialties, appetizers, and entrees include fajitas, enchiladas, carne asada, shrimp, fish, and other seafood specialties. Desserts are authentic also and include flan and tres leches cake. Famous for its selections of margaritas, Lalo’s also has a full bar. DJ music is featured after 10 p.m. on Wed., Thurs., Fri., and Sat., with mariachis on Fri. Carryout, delivery, and catering are available. Liquor selections are available with catering orders. A special New Year Eve celebration will be offered at Lalo’s on Maxwell St. this year. There will be a special dinner including appetizers, soups, entrees, dessert, and a Midnight champagne toast, and party favors, from 9:30 p.m. to midnight. There also will be an open bar from 10 p.m. to midnight, and a live DJ from 10 p.m. to midnight. Reservations are required for New Year's Eve. The package costs $49.99 per person, before tax and tips. Valet parking is available. Regular restaurant hours: Sun. through Tues. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Wed. and Thurs. 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sat. 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.

Lawrence Fisheries, 2120 S. Canal St., (312) 225-2113, fax (312) 225-7468. “The Fish Place at the Bridge” began 55 years ago as a wholesale/retail fishing operation, and is now an acclaimed fast, casual restaurant with carryout and business delivery service. Open 24 hours every day, Lawrence’s specializes in French fried shrimp, fish chips, catfish, and chicken cooked fresh on site using family recipes. Other favorites at Lawrence’s include frog legs, seafood nuggets, scallops, cod, oysters, boiled shrimp, and a variety of fresh salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts. Business delivery is available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mon. through Fri. in the South Loop and West Side. Faxed orders are welcome.

Palace Grill, 1408 W. Madison Ave., (312) 226-9529, fax (312) 226-0633. Since the restaurant was opened in 1938, breakfast has started at 5 a.m. everyday except Sun., when it is served at 7 a.m. Owner George Lamperis, like his father before him, serves everything from bacon and eggs to pancakes and omelets and hash browns. For lunch there are hearty homemade soups including navy bean, minestrone, and Boston clam chowder. The Palace burger is a half pound of beef served on Greek bread. Other selections include roast beef, turkey clubs and hot meatloaf served with real mashed potatoes. Specials are offered daily. Catering is available. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sat. 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Sun. 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pancho Pistolas, 700 W. 31st St., (312) 225-8808. Authentic Mexican cuisine—all cooked on the premises—is enjoyed in Pancho’s two-story venue. Among the favorites are carne asada, and sizzling meat, fish, and vegetarian fajitas. There are lunch and dinner specials every day. Carry outs and delivery are available. Call for special holiday parties. The staff invites everyone to enjoy food and drinks. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. to midnight; Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Pizza Metro II, 925 N. Ashland Ave., (773) 772-3267, www.pizzametro2.com.  Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, pastries, and more have been offered at Pizza Metro for more than two years at this current location. No corking fee on BYOB. Carry outs and deliveries are available. Open seven days per week. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. noon to 11 p.m.; and Fri. through Sat. 11 a.m. to midnight.

Polo Café & Catering Bridgeport USA, 3322 S. Morgan St., (773) 927-POLO or (773) 927-7656, www.polocafe.com. Polo Café has consistently received “three R’s” (the top ranking) from the Reader newspaper, and Rick Kogan of WGN-Radio said, “This is one of the City’s hidden treasures.” Chef/Owner Dave Samper continuously creates new culinary experiences at his restaurant, which now is in its 22nd year. Lunch on Mon. through Fri. and dinner on Fri. and Sat. as well as brunch on Sat. are served. The extensive menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, seafood, meat entrees, and sandwiches, as well as desserts. Polo Café also has a full bar. In addition, the old theater building next door has been converted to a private event venue for Polo Café as the “Old Eagle Room” and accommodates 100. Among the historically-significant features are a Rodgers 360 theater organ, 20-channel audio/DJ system, and a rare Wurlitzer concert grand piano. Polo Cafe also offers catering off-site for any occasion.  Hours: Mon. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. 5 to 9 p.m.; and Sat. brunch 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pompei Little Italy, 1531 W. Taylor St., (312) 421-5179. This bustling 225-seat eatery also accommodates groups of up to 100 people in its La Stanza di Pompei party room. Popular items include pizzas with various toppings. Quite popular is Pompei’s “strudel pizza,”an original creation. Other favorites include pastas, salads, daily specials, and fresh breads. Homemade desserts, cappuccino, and espresso also are served. Catering, delivery, and pickup are available. Hours: Mon. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Trattoria 31, 605 W. 31st St., (312) 326-3500, fax (312) 326-6004. Chef and owner Francisco Ruiz serves authentic rustic Italian cuisine within a casual fine dining atmosphere. Among his specialties are fish entrees, pasta dishes, and other regional Italian culinary delights. During the holiday season, Trattoria 31 offers Italian wine and food tasting dinners from a different part of Italy each month for $25 per person. During Dec., the tasting dinner emanates from the Tuscany region. Carryout also is available. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sun. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuscany on Taylor, 1014 W. Taylor St., (312) 829-1990, fax (312) 829-8023,  www.stefanirestaurants.com. Tuscany on Taylor Street –in the heart of Little Italy--is the original Tuscany restaurant (there are now four in the Chicagoland area). Tuscany provides fine Italian cuisine in an inviting atmosphere. Northern Italian specialties include gourmet pizzas cooked in wood-burning ovens, homemade pastas, medallions of veal wrapped in prosciutto, chicken Vesuvio, and such delectable desserts as tiramisu and chocolate mousse torte. Lunch hours: Mon. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner hours: Mon. through Thurs. 5 to 11 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. 5 p.m. to midnight, and Sun. 5 to 10 p.m. 

FOOD AND FESTIVE TREATS

Conte di Savoia Inc., 1438 W. Taylor St., (312) 666-3471. This European-style specialty market has been family owned and operated for more than 43 years. Among its most popular items are imported chocolates; desserts including cookies, biscotti, and cakes such as panettone (an Italian holiday tradition); fine wines; cheeses; appetizers; prosciutto di Parma; and other deli selections. Conte di Savoia also features fresh pasta selections and Italian sausages. Conte di Savoia caters events via delivery or carryout with an assortment of party trays, lasagna, and party subs. Custom sandwiches and subs  also are available. Another Conte di Savoia feature is its espresso/coffee bar with indoor seating. Conte di Savoia West is a second location at 2227 W. Taylor St., (312) 666-4335, where sandwiches and prepared foods such as lasagna are available. Hours at 1438 W. Taylor St: Mon. through Fri. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hours at 2227 W. Taylor St.: Mon. through Fri. 9a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dinner by Design, 716 W. Maxwell St., (312) 209-8076, www.dinnerbydesignkitchen.com, simplify@dbdmaxwellst.com. Helping to save people valuable time, Dinner by Design will shop, prepare, and plan meals for busy individuals. Not only does Dinner by Design save time in shopping, preparation, and planning, but it also helps provide nutritious meals in much less time. It works as follows: an individual can call or visit the website and select menu items and a date and time for his/her kitchen appointment to finish their meals in a social setting. Up to 12 meals can be prepared in two hours. Defrost as needed and follow instructions on airtight containers. If time is extremely tight, Dinner by Design trained staff will prepare meals for pickup.