Last year, I decided that I wanted to start doing meetups that combined service with delicious food. I planned the first “A Little Service, A Little Brunch” to happen last summer, but rescheduled because Red Pump was participating in Chicago’s Bud Billiken Parade. Can you believe that it has taken me almost an entire year to plan the rain check? *sigh* Anyways, here are the details! On Saturday, May 1st, I’m asking my Chicago friends [...]

I don’t know how I’ll ever get ready for swimsuit season if I keep getting information about “eating for charity!” My newest challenge will be to make it out of May WITHOUT doubling my body weight. Of course, I’m exaggerating but the Les Turner ALS Foundation is tempting me with its “Culinary Crusade: Join The Bite Against ALS” initiative!  Throughout the month of May, diners who visit twelve Chicago restaurants will be doing their part [...]

Has anyone out there heard of Sazerac? It’s reported to be the oldest cocktail in America with roots in pre-Civil War New Orleans. According to the Sazerac Company of New Orleans, the modern recipe consists of:  1 cube of sugar, 1 1/2 ounces of Sazerac Rye Whiskey, 1/4 ounce of Herbsaint, 3 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters and a lemon peel The reason that I ask is because 5 Chicago restuarants are celebrating the drink this [...]

Calling all my sushi-fanatics with over-stuffed closets!!! Until January 31st, you can take in a gently used winter coat to Tsuki Japanese Restaurant and Lounge (1441 W. Fullerton) or Ai (358 W. Ontario) and receive 20% off your bill! The coats will be donated to Cornerstone Community Outreach. Rejoice! -kb

The holiday season sure brings its fair share of champagne and other sparkly libations. This Wednesday the 10th, Bin 36 (339 N. Dearborn) will host Bubble Bath IX, their annual event where guests are invited to taste a multitude of champagnes and sparkling wines. This year, more than 75 (yes 75!) selections will be available for attendees to sample.  The event will also feature a silent auction and raffle to benefit Girls on the Run [...]

I’m gonna take a break from charitable events to talk about some fabulous, yet practical gifts for your favorite folks! I recognize that these are some crazy financial times so I tried to think of budget-friendly options. Hope you enjoy the list! Pretty 2-For-1: These gifts are perfect for your friend who you never see because her work and personal lives are swamped! Treat her to one of these events below and kill two birds with [...]

Chicagoans are unabashedly affectionate about many things: our sports teams, the lakefront, the skyline, and so on! But, we especially love our food! So, I thought I would use this post to talk about some ways you can indulge your tastebuds while giving back!   Green City Market Chefs’ BBQ Festival on Thursday, July 17th will feature over 50 of Chicago’s top chefs preparing tastings for hungry festival goers. Attendees will also be able to sample different beers and [...]

Vegetarians need not read any further! AIDSCare Chicago is partnering with Texas de Brazil Churrascaria (translation: Brazilian steakhouse) in a benefit supporting Chicago’s HIV/AIDS community. The event will be held on Thursday, June 19th from 5:30-8:30p. Texas de Brazil is located at 51 E. Ohio. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Guests will enjoy 2 drinks of beer, wine, or of the signature Texas de Brazil cocktail, the Caipirinha, and appetizers from [...]