Enjoy an assortment of summer dining and food experiences

By Marie Balice Ward

If you want a snack, a drink, a fine meal, or a food store in which to shop, this community is the place to be, as it offers some of the city's finest eating and food shopping experiences. The following eateries and food sellers are ready to meet your every culinary need.

BAKED GOODS
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. Cakes for children are very popular items on Saturdays at Bake for Me! Also, there are wedding-cake tastings held on one Saturday each month. Other specialties include logo and photo cookies, fresh strawberry and chocolate mousses, and 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. Eightand ten-inch cakes always are available (for up to 16 people). Custom or larger cakes (for 50 or more people) are available by calling 24 hours in advance. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Clark St. location is closed on Sat. Both locations are closed on Sun.

Biscotti Galore 3160 S. Wells St., (312) 842-7670, fax (312) 842-8710, www.biscottisgalore.com , biscottisgalore@sbcglobal.net. Since March 2007, Biscotti’s Galore and More features among the most authentic
cookies and biscotti in the Chicago area for a special evening dessert, corporate meetings and events as well as weddings and other special occasions. Biscotti’s Galore specializes in Italian cookies and Italian cookie trays that are also available for delivery. Some of the recipes date back 150 years to Italy’s heartland —Calabria. Rosa Fratto and her daughter Maria Sheppard and Maria’s sister-in-law Sue Sheppard are behind the scenes creating the scrumptious desserts.

Brothers John and Rick Sheppard are partners and “man” the store. There are 11 to 12 types of cookies and four types of biscotti available. Among the many types of cookies are lemon, Italian chocolate wedding cookies and crescents. Hours: Mon. through Fri., from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Ferrara Bakery, 2210 W. Taylor St., (312) 666-2200, www.ferrarabakery.com. Ferrara’s signature cannoli cake, along with a wide variety of party cakes, cookies, candies, biscotti, and pastries have been a family tradition at Ferrara Bakery for nearly 100 years. Wedding cakes and sweet tables are among Ferrara’s many specialties. On weekdays, Ferrara serves a full lunch menu, dining in or to go. Luncheon specials include many pasta dishes, soups, pizza, salads, as well as hot and cold sandwiches. Ferrara also features a daily espresso bar. 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.

BARS/LOUNGES
Little Joe’s Circle Lounge, 1041 W. Taylor St., (312) 829-5888, fax (312) 829-0261. Established in 1946, Little Joe’s is operated by the third generation of the same family. The atmosphere is very comfortable and inviting—offering the highest standards in hospitality. Antiques and history dominate the décor. The fare, while simple, is well prepared, abundant, and very competitively priced.  11am to 2am M-F,  2pm to 3am Sat.

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. Live jazz is performed every Tues. and Wed. evening from 7 to 10 p.m. There is no cover charge. Hours: Tues. through Thurs. 5 p.m. to midnight; Fri. 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sat. 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Private events only on Sun.and Mon. Valet parking on weekends.

FOOD GIFTS/FOOD MARKETS
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 45 years. Among its most popular items are imported chocolates; desserts including cookies, biscotti, and cakes; fine wines; cheeses; appetizers; prosciutto di Parma; and other deli selections. Conte di Savoia also features fresh pasta choices and Italian sausages. Custom-made and pre-made gift baskets also are available at Conte di Savoia. Conte di Savoia caters events – delivery or carryout – with an assortment of party trays, lasagna, and party subs. Custom sandwiches and subs also are available. Another feature at Conte di Savoia 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 including lasagna are available. Hours at 1438 W. Taylor St. are: Mon. through Fri., 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sun., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. At 2227 W. Taylor St., hours: Mon. through Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Edible Arrangements, 1212 W. Taylor St., (312) 421-5440, fax (312) 421-5441, www.ediblearrangements.com. Fruits designed into bouquets and baskets are featured at Edible Arrangements. Tropical fruits as well as homegrown selections are available along with dipped fruits in boxes, including gourmet dipped apple wedges, dipped orange segments, and strawberries. Fudge selections, Mylar balloons, plush bears, and other items also are available as accessories. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MEALS AND MORE
Bacchanalia Ristorante, 2413 S. Oakley Ave., (773) 254-6555, fax (773) 254-6565, www.Bacchanaliachicago.com.  Bacchanalia has received a prestigious Zagat award, having been named as one of America’s top 1,000 Italian restaurants. Bacchanalia means “feast,” and the restaurant 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 and catering are available. Valet parking is $7. 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 a la puttanesca. Specials are offered daily. Bruna’s also has an extensive wine list and imports a personally 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 also is available with pistachio being a favorite. Reservations are accepted. Carryout is available. Valet parking is offered everyday except on Mon. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sun. 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Burger Baron, 1381 W. Grand Ave., (312) 733-3285, www.burgerbaron.net. Breakfast sandwiches and other selections, “Great Burger,” Philly steaks, gyros, sandwiches of all types, as well as salads, soups, kebobs are some of the choices at Burger Baron. In addition, there are desserts and milk shakes. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sat. 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and closed on Sun. Café Aorta, 2002 W. 21st St., (312) 738-2002, www.cafeaorta.com . Known for “specializing in healthier foods with flavor,” Café Aorta offers an extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu as well as weekend brunch all day on Sat. and Sun., and a special menu for kids. Among its menu selections are breakfast foods of all types, salads with organic greens, homemade soups, grilled sandwiches, sides, specialty sandwiches, chef specials, entrees, and homemade desserts. In addition Café Aorta features a juice bar, smoothies, and specialty coffee drinks. Carryout, delivery and catering are available as well as online ordering. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and brunch all day on Sat. and Sun.

Connie’s Pizza, 2373 S. Archer Ave., (312) 326-3443 or (312) CONNIES, fax (312) 842-5274, www.conniespizza.com. Open since 1963 and proud official sponsors of Taste of Chicago, Gospel Fest, the Chicago White Sox, Wrigley Field, and Brookfield Zoo among other Chicago attractions, Connie’s Pizza has served the entire Chicagoland area with pizzas of all types as well as a wide selection of entrees, salads and sandwiches, and other Italian cuisine. Connie’s also specializes in catering for social gatherings including weddings, as well as corporate luncheons or dinners of any size, provided by its off- site full staff of catering experts. Pickup, delivery, and eat-in accommodations are available. Hours: Mon. through Thurs.,11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Damenzo’s Pizza, 2324 W. Taylor St., (312) 421-1142. Pizzas of all shapes—thin, thick, and stuffed—are available at Damenzo’s with a wide selection of toppings. Damenzo’s also serves Italian entrees such as lasagna, ravioli, eggplant parmesan, and sandwiches. Among Damenzo’s generous-sized sandwiches are 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.

DePasada, 1517 W. Taylor St., (312) 243-6441, fax (312) 243-6277. This very popular eatery continues DePasada’s tradition of fine Mexican food made popular at its original location at 1108 N. Ashland Ave. Family-run DePasada for more than 20 years has featured burritos, tortas, tostadas, tacos, and many other delectable selections. All of the choices are made from family recipes that have been handed down through the generations. DePasada’s flan and tres leches cake (three milk cake) are very popular. DePasada offers delivery after 6 p.m. Hours: Sun. through Thurs. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m. to midnight.

Dine Restaurant, 733 W. Madison St. (Crowne Plaza Metro Hotel), (312) 602-2100, www.dinerestaurant.com.  An ec- ectic interior design combines vintage elements such as antiqued glass, terrazzo flooring, a zinc bar, and oversized print art with a contemporary style for a charming supper club atmosphere created for Dine by the nationally-recognized restaurant design firm of Puccini Group, based in San Francisco. Semi-private and private dining options are offered. Chef Chris Turano’s featured menu includes a generous selection of American specialties for breakfast, lunch, and Sunday brunch (9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Try their new spring menu for dinner featuring dishes using fresh seasonal ingredients and pure cooking techniques, complemented with comfortably refined serve. Ask about “Dine daily drink specials” that are offered all day long. Outdoor dining is available, weather permitting. Hours: Sun. through Thurs. 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. The lounge is open one hour later.

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 people. Hours: Open daily (except holidays) 4:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Carryout is available. Parking also is available.

Express Grill, 1260 S. Union Ave., (312) 738-2112. Polish sausage sandwiches, chicken breasts, hamburgers, pork chops, free fries, and more are available at this eatery for take out. Hours: everyday, 24 hours.

Fogata Village Restaurant, 1820 S. Ashland Ave., (312) 850- 1702. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Fogata offers Mexican cuisine primarily from the State of Guerrero, Mexico, along with some Italian selections and salads. The restaurant seats 50 and also offers catering and carryout. Hours: Sun. through Wed. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thurs., Fri. and Sat. 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

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  ushrooms, 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, and Franconello, 1301 S. Halsted St. Call Franco’s for all your catering needs. Carryout is also available. Hours: Tues. through Thurs. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. 3 to 10 p.m. Closed on Sun. and Mon.

Franconello’s Italian Restaurant, 1301 S. Halsted St., (312) 421- 1301. This Italian restaurant serves all-homemade appetizers, entrees, and desserts. It specializes in rosemary pork chops, sausage and peppers Franconello style, and pastas including homemade gnocchi. Among the dessert specialties are tiramisu, cannoli dip, carrot cake, lava cake, and gelato, also all homemade. Hours: Sun. through Thurs. 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Fri. and Sat. 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Gio’s Cafe, 2724 S. Lowe Ave., (312) 225-6368, www.gioscafe.com. Featuring southern Italian cuisine, especially from Sicily, Gio is a Bridgeport neighborhood surprise, a little wonder restaurant and retail store offering top Italian dishes at lunch and dinner. It is a festive BYOB party place. Ideal for pre- and post-Chicago White Sox games, Gio’s Cafe 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-pepper appetizers. Nothing is pre-cooked. Carry out, delivery, and catering are available. Hours: Mon. through Sat. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on Sun.

Hashbrowns, 731 W. Maxwell St., (312) 226-8000. Hashbrowns, omelettes, burgers, and more are available for dine-in or and carryout. Hours: Daily 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Jim’s Original Hot Dog, 1250 S. Union Ave., (312) 733-7820. Since 1939, Jim’s Original Hot Dog has been serving hot dogs, pork chops, chicken, and hamburgers with free fries to its loyal and new customers. Hours: always open.

Joy Yee Noodle, 1335 S. Halsted St., (312) 997-2128. Fusion Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisine is enjoyed at Joy Yee Noodle. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sun. noon to 10 p.m.

Junior’s Sports Lounge, 726 W. Maxwell St., (312) 421-2277, www.juniorschicago.com. Junior’s Sports Lounge is a bar and restaurant serving appetizers, burgers, chicken, soups, sandwiches, salads, and more. Carryout is also available. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 3 a.m., and Sun. 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Kohan Japanese Restaurant, 730 W. Maxwell St., (312) 421-6254. Kohan is a Japanese steak and sushi eatery. Hours: Daily for lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; dinner hours are Sun. through Thurs. 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., and Sun. 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Lalo’s Mexican Restaurant, 773 W. Maxwell St., (312) 455-9380. With an all-Mexican cuisine from appetizers through desserts as well as authentic Mexican cocktails and a full-bar and wine list, Lalo’s also provides catering. Hours: Wed. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., Sat. 11 a.m. to 3 a.m., and Sun. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Lawrence Fisheries, 2120 S. Canal St., (312) 225-2113, fax (312) 225-7468, www.lawrencesfisheries.net. “The Fish Place at the Bridge” began 55 years ago as a wholesale/retail fishing operation, and now is an acclaimed fast casual restaurant with carryout and business delivery service. Open 24 hours every day, Lawrence’s specializes in fried shrimp, fish chips, catfish, and chicken made fresh on site and cooked trans fat-free, 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.

Martin’s Corner Bar & Grill, 2058 W. 22nd Pl. (773) 847-5515. Family-owned and operated since 1951, Martin’s offers superior quality selections including a large char-grilled burger with fries at $5.25, one-half price appetizers from Mondays through Thursdays, and 95-cent burgers on Saturdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, baby back ribs are $9.99 at Martin’s. Among the other specialties are Martin’s breaded steak sandwich and homemade meatloaf with mashed potatoes. There is free Wi- Fi. There are also daily Wii tournaments. There is no cost to play pool. The bar has rotating drink specials and a great selection of imported and craft beers. Grill hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Bar hours: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Mississippi Rick’s, 3351 S. King Dr., (312) 791-0090. Chicken, ribs, catfish, wings, and more are served at this restaurant in Lake Meadows Shopping Center. Hours: Mon. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sun. noon to 8 p.m.

Morgan’s Bar and Grill, 1325 S. Halsted St., (312) 243-4800, www.morgansonmaxwell.com. Drink specials, live music (no cover), appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pizza, shrimp, ribs, fish, chicken, and pasta are served at Morgan’s. Hours: Sun. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Palace Grill, 1408 W. Madison St., (312) 226-9529, fax (312) 226- 0633. A West Loop fixture since 1938, Palace Grill is open for breakfast starting at 5 a.m. everyday except Sun., when breakfast starts at 7 a.m. Owner George Lemperis, like his father before him, serves everything from bacon and eggs to pancakes and omelets and hash browns. For lunch, Palace Grill offers hearty homemade soups including split pea, minestrone, and Boston clam chowder. Lighter fare includes fresh spring mix, Cobb, or Greek salads. The Palace Grill burger is a half-pound of beef served on Greek bread. Other sandwiches include roast beef, turkey clubs, and hot meatloaf that is served with real mashed potatoes. There also are daily specials.
Beer and wine are available. Catering also is offered by Palace Grill. 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.

Pompei, 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 “pizza strudel”—an original creation. Other favorites include pastas, salads, daily specials, and fresh breads. Homemade desserts, cappuccino, and espresso also are served. Pompei specializes in express catering for delivery or pick up. Just open is “The Garden,” outdoor seating for 75. Hours: Mon. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Quinzos Sub, 1332 S. Halsted St., (312) 563-9010. All types of subs made to order as well as salads and soups, soft drinks, bottled water, and juices for dining in or as carry outs are available at Quinzos. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Reggio’s Pizza, 1339 S. Halsted St., (312) 455-1211. Thin, deep dish pizza with a wide variety of toppings is just one of the many offerings at Reggio’s. Others include chicken, pasta, meat and fish entrees, salads, and soups. Smoothies and soft drinks also are also served. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to midnight, Fri. and Sat. 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sun.  2 p.m. to midnight.

Rooks Corner/Rooks Lounge at the Marriott, 625 S. Ashland Ave., (312) 491-1234. An upscale, all-American bistro, Rooks gives traditional American fare a contemporary style. Among the extensive selections are salads, pastas, sandwiches, and desserts, as well as a full dinner menu with carved steaks and fresh seafood that arrives daily. Daily breakfast buffet is $11.95 and a more expansive Sunday brunch is $25.95. Sunday brunch is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There also are two private dining rooms. The adjacent bar, Rooks Lounge, is outfitted with spacious booths and two flat-screen TVs. The bar menu includes a number of signature cocktails including martinis. Bar patrons can select from a restaurant menu until bar closing time. Restaurant hours: Daily 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Bar hours: Sun. through Thurs. 2 p.m. to midnight, Fri. and Sat. 2 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Sweet Maple Café, 1339 W. Taylor St., (312) 243-8908. A 1940s style eatery, Sweet Maple Café offers breakfast and lunch during the week, and brunch specials on the weekends. Sweet Maple uses deliciously creative recipes for pancakes and French toast, homemade biscuits, muffins, and egg dishes, among other selections. Lunch fare includes homemade soups and sandwiches such as turkey with homemade potato chips. And, there are abundant desserts. Weekend brunch items include salmon cakes, fried pork chops, and more. Hours: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.

Taylor Made Pizza, 1220 W. Taylor St., (312) 850-2000, fax (312) 850-2002. Taylor Made Pizza specializes in deep dish and thin crust pizzas with a vast selection of toppings.

In addition to pizzas, Taylor White Castle, 3457 S. King Dr., (773) 268-0922. A sandwich and snack chain, White Castle is known for its “slyders” (hamburgers), and chicken and fish sandwiches. Hours: Daily, 24 hours.

Wow Café & Wingery, 717 W. Maxwell St. (312) 997-9WOW (997- 9969). Specializing in wings, WOW also serves chicken wraps and other selections with a variety of 17 sauces. The cuisine is New Orleans inspired. Beers and spirits are also served. Hours: Mon. through Sat. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sun. noon to 10 p.m.

TREATS
Caribou Coffee, 1328 S. Halsted St., (312) 738-3570. Caribou offers specialty coffee and tea drinks – hot and cold, as well as sandwiches, pastries, and cookies. Hours: Sun. 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Mon. through Thurs. 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Fri. 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sat. 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Cold Stone Creamery, 1316 S. Halsted St., (312) 226-2800. Sixteen different ice cream flavors with a choice of more than 30 toppings blended together to order on marble. Hours: Sun. through Thurs. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. , Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins, 3481 S. King Dr., (312) 949-1111. Fresh donuts and pastries, fresh coffee, and hot and cold specialty coffee drinks, smoothies, 24 ice cream flavors, and ice cream creations are among the offerings at this Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins shop. Hours: Daily, 24 hours.

Jamba Juice, 1322 S. Halsted St., (312) 738-3660. Carrot and wheat grass juices as well as fruit smoothies and baked specialties are offered at Jamba Juice. Hours: Mon. through Thurs. 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri. 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sun. 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Massa Italian Café, 870 W. Roosevelt Rd., (312) 433-0123. Specialty coffee drinks, Panini, entrée salads, and homemade Italian gelato–16 flavors all are offered at Massa. Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Maui Wowi, 850 W. Jackson Blvd., (312) 738-3610, fax (312) 738-3611. Hawaiian and other coffees, smoothies, baked goods including muffins and bagels, as well as a limited assortment of juices are among the offerings at Maui Wowi for sit- own, carryout, and limited delivery enjoyment. Fresh soups are available Monday through Friday. Retail sale items include coffees and teas and Hawaiian snacks. Maui Wowi also caters corporate and private parties and provides a portable Tiki hut. Hours: Mon. through Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sat. 9  a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed on Sun.

Scott’s Poppin, 3471 S. King Dr., (312) 225-5522. Popcorn, nuts, chocolates, candies, and an assortment of popcorn flavors with the newest being hot and spicy and bacon and cheese, are featured at Scott’s Poppin. Hours: Mon. through Sat. 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.