The state has fined a suburban brewery an undisclosed amount after they served a special infusion of Jeppson’s Malört with cicadas, celebrating the insects’ 2024 emergence. Noon Whistle Brewing Co. in Lombard made headlines in May for combining Chicago’s infamous liquor with bugs foraged from a neighboring park.
The Illinois Liquor Control Commission’s March report includes a blurb that does not mention Noon Whistle, but it refers to a licensee selling an infusion containing cicadas: “The licensee was cited for the violation and was provided education on the issue.” A message to an ILCC rep wasn’t immediately returned. Noon Whistle’s co-founder Mike Condon confirmed the fine over email and wrote he preferred not to share more info.
In May, Noon Whistle compared its cicada-infused malört to tequilas bottles with worms. They charged $5 per shot, and it was available for a limited time. Malört infusions are all the rage, as neighborhood bars are mixing ingredients like pumpkin spice and candy cane into the liquor. Even outside of Chicago, bartenders are unveiling sinister concoctions with the bitter spirit. The liquor is so storied that former Chicago Tribune beer writer Josh Noel has written a book, Malort: The Redemption of a Revered & Reviled Spirit, that will be released on September 3.
Local authorities have long held concerns about spirit infusions made at taverns and restaurants, worried that bartenders would ignore the science and allow bacteria to grow while waiting for flavors to develop. Plenty has changed over the years in terms of information available to the general public. For example, the Illinois Liquor Control Act of 1934 wasn’t written to take into account homebrewers; the Internet has helped better educate folks. The act does include a 14-day limit for infusions and bottles have to be clearly labeled with the start and end dates and listed the ingredients used. The state law also defines infusions as using “ingredients, including, but not limited to, fruits, spices, or nuts, are added to naturally infuse flavor into the spirit.”
Bugs aren’t listed. But neither is bacon — Chicago went through a phase, in the late 2010s, when bartenders were gleefully infusing spirits, like bourbon, with pork. There weren’t reported fines. However, presumably, they weren’t hunting pigs and curing their own bacon. They weren’t hunting wild pigs, they were buying a product from a store or butcher. There’s no such facility to procure food-grade cicadas.
Keep this in mind when cicadas remerge in Illinois in 2037.
Lollapalooza sightings
Last week, Chappell Roan drew the largest crowd ever at Lollapalooza, with organizers claiming the star attracted the largest festival audience ever during a Thursday, August 1 performance with a legion of about 80,000 fans in Grant Park gathering in front of her stage. Of course, these folks have to eat and River North restaurants feasted on the opportunities to feed celebs. Two days before, Roan sampled seafood in River North at Sushi-san. A rep says it was a low-key visit and the singer was barely noticed at the restaurant, part of the Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises group.
Lettuce has long been a company that draws celebrities and works with concert promoters to feed VIPs. With that in mind, it’s unsurprising that Kesha also found her way to Three Dots and a Dash where a rep says she threw a party for her band and took selfies in the bathroom. Meanwhile, The Killers, whose hit Mr. Brightside has found renewed life in clubs from Northalsted to River North, also played Lolla and the band dined at Lettuce’s Italian restaurant, Il Porcellino. This was while California singer-songwriter Dasha headed to Bub City and sang while they line danced, inspired by the performer’s viral TikTok. Rounding it out, Pierce The Veil did the most punk thing conceivable: They ate dinner at RPM Steak. The band also ate dinner with Blink-182’s Tom DeLonge at Miru the Japanese restaurant inside the St. Regis Chicago. Singer and actress Reneé Rapp (Mean Girls)was joined by Remi Wolf for dinner at RPM Seafood.
Other sightings included the K-pop group Stray Kids who visitedBonyeon, the steak omakase in West Loop. Icelandic singer/musician Laufey dined at Publican Quality Meats and was tended to by head chef and butcher Rob Levitt.
But life wouldn’t be the same without a Kardashian mention. Kourtney Kardashian, who has embraced more of a vegan diet, ate at Penelope’s Tacos in River North and posted a photo on Instagram.
5419 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60640 (773) 878-7340
There will be plenty of food and drink vendors and with several food-focused festivities outside of the confines of Grant Park Chow Town — along with a band or two — at this year’s Lollapalooza, which runs from Thursday, August 1 to Sunday, August 4.
Take advantage of the fest-related specials, which range from pre- and after-parties to artist-inspired cocktails and a croissant collab, and scope out restaurants around Grant Park to refuel before or after a show.
Specials and after-parties
Beatrix, Beatrix Market: Those heading to Lollapalooza can use their wristband to buy a $1 cold brew. On Thursday and Friday, head to Beatrix (Loop), Beatrix Market Loop, or DePaul locations; on Saturday and Sunday, the deal is at at Beatrix locations in River North, Streeterville, and Fulton Market.
Beatrix
Rotisserie Ema: Cool down with $1 frozen Greek yogurt topped with olive oil and sea salt from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday at this Mediterranean restaurant in River North.
Tao Chicago: This multi-level nightclub in River North gets into the Lolla spirit with after-show parties each night. Thursday features Loud Luxury with Canadian DJ duo Andrew Fedyk and Joe Depace, ZEDD on Friday, and Metro Boomin on Saturday. Doors open at 10 p.m. Tickets are available online.
Tao Chicago
Cindy’s Rooftop: Embrace the Lolla vibe early with Just.One, a Chicago open-format/R&B DJ set, on Wednesday, July 31 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Part of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel’s In the Sky DJ series, the monthly terrace party offers with views of the Navy Pier fireworks as well as Millennium Park below. Try it out with one of six specialty cocktails inspired by performers — a single malt whiskey-forward Take Me to Church, perhaps? — from Thursday through Sunday.
Time Out Market: Honor the Chicago-born phenomenon of house music, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, with a festival after-party on Thursday, August 1. The West Loop food hall will transform into a three-level pop-up venue filled with food and music. Chicago house legends Felix Da Housecat, NEZ, and special guests Vic Mensa will be, um, in the house.
Daisies: Croissant-collab extraordinaire Leigh Omilinsky works her pastry magic with Killer Mike of Run the Jewels (performing at the festival on Saturday, August 3) on a flaky croissant filled with grapefruit cream and tossed in lime-raspberry sugar. The croissant is a partnership with the launch of Run the Jewels’ new Juice Runners canned paloma cocktail. Both are available throughout August at Daisies in Logan Square.
Welcome to the Farm: This brand new River North spot from athletes Jimmy Butler and Roquan Smith and musician Chase Rice features two official Lollapalooza after-parties this weekend. On Friday, DJ Brandi Cyrus hosts the festivities. On Saturday, it’s Travis Barker, who will do a live drum set with DJ Spider. Doors open at 8 p.m.
Pendry Chicago: This boutique Michigan Avenue hotel celebrates Lolla with headliner-inspired drinks at Bar Pendry, its lobby-level cocktail lounge, and rooftop oasis Chateau Carbide. Try cocktails like Red Hot Chili Peppers-inspired Mezcalification with a savory lineup of skewers.
Pizzeria Portofino: Inspired by the custom pizza that singer-songwriter Benson Boone (performing at Lolla on Thursday) created earlier this year at this lavish riverside pizza palace, Benson’s Beautiful Pizza is topped with marinara, Italian sausage, red onions, mozzarella cheese, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan. Sprinter Vodka Seltzers will be available for $10 as well as a group-sized drink the Portofino Purse for $85.
Singer-songwriter Benson Boone is back in Chicago for Lollapalooza. Lindsay Eberly/Pizzeria Portofino
RPM Italian: No stranger to visits by Lollapalooza artists over the years, this River North restaurant answers the call for vegetarian and vegan offerings with specials like rigatoni pomodoro and focaccia de Roma, available Thursday through Sunday.
Spin Chicago: This River North ping pong club offers thePerry Bomb, a play on a vodka-based cherry bomb named after Lollapalooza founder Perry Farrell, for $13 from Thursday through Saturday.
The Blackstone Hotel: Bespoke bouquet brand Floriography Fellows is setting up shop outside this Michigan Avenue hotel with flower crowns made from locally sourced fresh and dried flowers. Each crown has a special meaning, drawing from the Victorian-era language of flowers. The stand will be open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Swadesi: This new West Loop Indian cafe from chef Sujan Sarkar will offer a special Lolla lavender lychee lemonade with butterfly pea flower in addition to regular menu items like chicken tikka toasties, butter chicken croissants, and jaggery chocolate chip cookies.
Nearby Restaurants
Tanta: From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday take advantage of discounted Peruvian snacks and drinks — think ceviche, empanadas, and pisco sours — at this River North restaurant’s popular happy hour. Or, go for weekend brunch, including a bottomless mimosa special. There are live DJ sets on Saturday.
Tzuco: This upscale Mexican restaurant from decorated chef Carlos Gaytán offers a popular weekend brunch with hits like chilaquiles and lobster tacos. It features happy hour specials from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday with small plates (think tuna tostadas and chicharrón de pulpo), sangria, and margaritas.
Ummo: This contemporary Italian restaurant is designed to please a crowd with classic dishes such as fresh pasta next to more modern spins like octopus carpaccio. Creativity continues at its weekend brunch with sweet (pistachio custard-stuffed bombolone) and savory (lamb shakshuka) dishes. Upstairs, Loft 22 pairs vinyl sessions, live music, and cocktails in a stylish setting.
The Smith: On weekdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., this River North restaurant offers discounted specialty martinis and hearty bites (black truffle arancini, potato chips with blue cheese fondue) during its martini hour. Weekend brunch options include shrimp and grits, potato waffle Benedicts, and vanilla bean French toast.
Three Dots and a Dash: This River North lounge leans heavily into a tropical vibe, both in its rum cocktails — think cold-pressed juices, tropical fruits, and fancy spirits — and its kitschy interior design. Its “secret” entrance via an alley adds to its charm.
Casa Chi: New on the scene, this cocktail lounge on the ground floor of the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile from restaurateur Richard Sandoval explores Peru’s Nikkei cuisine, which combines Japanese and Peruvian ingredients. Cocktails take center stage, although there’s a small menu of flavorful snacks, with a robust agave-forward tequila and mezcal list, available in flights, tastings, and mixed drinks.
Kindling: James Beard Award-winning chef Jonathon Sawyer heads up the kitchen at this Willis Tower restaurant with a variety of wood-fired dishes from the live-fire kitchen. Happy hour at the bar from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday features a selection of specially priced dishes and drinks such as Nashville hot chicken tenders, crispy Brussels sprouts, and Aperol spritzes.
Vol. 39
Vol. 39: Located on the second floor of the Loop’s Kimpton Gray Hotel, itself a historic building, this cocktail bar and lounge offers an extensive selection of high-end wine and spirits. Look for bespoke cocktails with a nod to the classics as well as a menu of small plates.
The Dearborn: The Lawless sisters, Clodagh and Amy, operate a gorgeous American tavern near the Washington Blue and Red Line stops at the Block 37 development in Downtown Chicago. Brunch is a specialty at the Dearborn with dishes like fried chicken and waffles, fried perch Benedict, and PB&J French toast.
Jiao by Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings: Qing Xiang Yuan, shortened to QXY, is a favorite for handmade dumplings. For many, it’s the first restaurant visitors patronize when visiting Chicago’s Chinatown. Ownership saw how customers outside of the neighborhood loved coriander-lamb dumplings and other items, so they created Jiao in the Loop with hopes of opening more locations across the country. This is a great spot for a quick and filling meal.
The Gage and Acanto: The Gage is a handsome Irish restaurant and pub right across the street from Millennium Park and is an excellent pitstop for a pint of Guinness, a bite, or a full meal. Billy Lawless (The Dawson) also owns Italian restaurant Acanto next door, which offers a standout wine program. Both feature a patio with views of the park.
Hot Woks Cool Sushi: Offering a variety of Japanese and Thai dishes at easy-on-the-wallet prices, the Michigan Avenue location of this family-owned restaurant chainlet is walking distance from the festival. Signature dishes at Hot Woks Cool Sushi range from pad Thai and spicy chicken wings to crunchy spicy tuna maki.
Miller’s Pub: A beloved Chicago institution for almost 90 years, Miller’s Pub is a must-visit spot whether you’re here for Lolla or not. Located in the Loop, Miller’s attracts locals and visitors alike, who come for an after-work cocktail, post-theater burger, or a nightcap. Vintage oil paintings, stained glass, and lots of dark wood provide a charming setting for dishes such as Greek chicken, build-your-own burgers, and prime rib French dip.
Brightwok Kitchen: This Asian assembly line restaurant is gluten-free with tons of vegetarian options. It’s a make-your-own stir fry concept with fresh ingredients and sauces made on-site. Brightwok Kitchen is good for folks with tight dietary needs.
Bien Me Sabe Venezuelan Arepa Bar: A favorite of several Latin American baseball players on the Chicago White Sox, Bien Me Sabe Venezuelan Arepa Bar features a deep selection of Venezuela’s signature dish, arepas, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Ceviche, tostones, and empanaditas round out the menu.
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub: Only a handful of names are associated with Chicago outside of the city. Barack Obama and Michael Jordan are easy marks. But Chicago’s gangster ties still make Al Capone a figure many connect with the city. Exchequer only opened in 1982, but the building allegedly housed a speakeasy that Capone and his goons would frequent. The pub serves thin pizzas, barbecue ribs, salads, and more.
Cafecito: This Latin coffee shop and counter-service restaurant is a good bet for a quick breakfast or lunch with pressed sandwiches, including fan-favorite Cuban, lechon, and choripan. Breakfast features a handful of egg-focused sandwiches. Cafecito has three Chicago locations.
Mercat a la Planxa: Mercat a la Planxa is a Spanish stalwart just a touch south on Michigan Avenue with plenty of small tapas-style plates, large meals, and cocktails and wine. Sit down in the colorful dining room with views of the park across the street or order a drink at the secluded downstairs bar.
Roots Handmade Pizza – South Loop: Quad Cities thin-crust pizza cut into puffy strips is the specialty of Roots. Its unique style has made the pizzeria popular for families across Chicago. This South Loop/Printer’s Row location has a gorgeous patio space with a retractable roof as well as a sidewalk patio.
Devil Dawgs on State: Yes, folks can grab a hot dog at fest, but why fight those lines? Devil Dawgs is a Chicago mini-chain that does a proper dog dragged through the garden with all the toppings that the city is known for. The South State location is where to stop to try some genuine Chicago street fare.
Eleven City Diner: Eleven City Diner offers classic diner fare with Jewish deli classics like hearty pastrami and corned beef sandwiches. Breakfast is served all day and includes lox platters, bagels, soups, salads, and more.
Lowcountry South Loop: Lowcountry was one of Chicago’s first places for Asian Cajun seafood boils. This is the second location (there’s one in Wrigleyville and another in Chinatown), and the restaurant also serves refreshing cocktails.
Aurelio’s Pizza: Chicago loves its deep-dish pizza, but the city has more than one pizza style. Crispy square-cut tavern style pies are a South Side invention, and Aurelio’s Pizza is among the premier pizza makers in the city. Up the Chicago vibe and get it with giardiniera.
Minghin Cuisine: Minghin has several locations around Chicago and specializes in dim sum cart service. The decor has all the trappings of a traditional Chinese restaurant, including the Lazy Susan trays. This is a dumpling lover’s delight; the steamed shrimp are among the top selections.
Flo & Santos: Those with an appetite for South Side Chicago cuisine will want to visit Flo & Santo’s. There are pierogis, pork wings, and tavern-style pizzas at this popular restaurant that features an outside beer garden and daily drink specials.
Victory Tap: Some of Chicago’s best Italian American food comes from the throwback Victory Tap. The pastas are fresh, service is great, and the drinks are stiff. The spacious bar offers plenty of seating for walk-ins.
AO Hawaiian Hideout: This restaurant serves up poke, barbecue, Japanese teriyaki, and Thai noodles. The space is casual and has a large vegan menu. The tropical drink selection is also a bit nostalgic and feels like a Cantonese restaurant from the ’80s. Daily specials from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. include Tropical Thursdays ($6 tropical cocktails) and Freaki Tiki Friday ($6 pineapple shandy beer).
Miru: Inside the fancy St. Regis Hotel Chicago at the start of Upper Wacker Drive and overlooking Lake Michigan, this luxe restaurant focuses on sushi with a few American accents, including a cheeseburger at lunch. The all-day restaurant offers traditional dishes, including a Japanese breakfast with rice and King salmon. The views here are gorgeous, and this is where rapper Drake first enjoyed a shot of Malört. (Note: ‘Enjoyed’ might be embellishing.) On Sunday, August 4, brunch service will be paired with a live DJ on the terrace starting at 10 a.m.
Avli on The Park: Avli is a Greek American blockbuster hit with multiple locations. The Lakeshore East location differs as it has a larger bar space and an outdoor deck for private events. Fun wines, nice cocktails, and dependable modern Greek small plates make Avli a great choice for dinner and weekend brunch.
Reggie’s: Formerly a run-down auto repair shop, this multi-level South Loop spot has earned plenty of fans for its live music, laidback vibe, and wallet-friendly drinks and food. Its rooftop deck is a refreshing alternative to the city’s fancy (read: pricy) spots with free pool, bags, and basketball hoop. Cool off at the outdoor shower.
The Chicago location of Smith & Wollensky remains closed after a small Friday, April 5 fire in the steakhouse’s kitchen. A firefighter was seen taken off in a stretcher. No customers or staff were hurt, according to the steakhouse.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The steakhouse, via social media, apologized to customers and vowed for an update ASAP. Smith & Wollensky, a chain with 10 locations, opened its Chicago steakhouse in 1998, off the Chicago River in the Marina City complex.
Marshmello fans lineup in front of Wiener Circle
Before his Saturday performance at the Aragon Ballroom, Marshmallo, a DJ and electronic music producer, played a surprise set on top of the Wiener Circle — turntables were installed on the roof. Hundreds flooded toward the restaurant. No ketchup stains harmed the DJ’s glorious white visage.
Thank you to the security team for keeping traffic moving and for @cta for showing your passengers on the 22 Clark bus a good time! pic.twitter.com/BWNsqYfFg0
— The Wieners Circle (@TheWienerCircle) April 7, 2024
Chart-topping musician visits River North restaurant
If music doesn’t work out for singer-songwriter Benson Boone, maybe working in a restaurant will.
Boone, whose album — Fireworks & Rollerblades — released last week was in Chicago where he played two shows at the Salt Shed. In between the concerts, he joined a growing contingent of musicians who arrange to work at a restaurant for publicity. Pizzeria Portofino in River North was the venue of choice. While the Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ restaurant along the Chicago River isn’t exactly a magnet for Boone’s Tik Tok-obsessed fanbase, the singer still shared a pizza (topped with marinara, Italian sausage, red onions mozzarella cheese, artichoke hearts, and parmesan) he baked alongside Pizzeria Portofino’s Pizza Chef Jeff Smyl with guests. Boone’s single, “Beautiful Things,” has been No. 1 on global charts since mid-February.
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