Chef John Besh - photo courtesy of Luke

Opening later this month on the San Antonio Riverwalk, is the latest restaurant of acclaimed Chef John Besh: Luke San Antonio. Reflective of what he has done with his sister restaurant Luke of New Orleans, Chef Besh is seeking to take the feel and ambiance of Luke in New Orleans to San Antonio. “It is really exciting for me to be bringing my beloved Lüke to a city with such vibrancy and spirit as San Antonio,” says Chef Besh. “I know an even stronger bond will be built between the two great food cities and hope area residents are awaiting Lüke’s opening with much anticipation.”

The restaurant is to be a combination of a French Brasserie with elements of a gastro-pub with a large craft beer and wine selection. The cuisine is expected to honor both the Old World and local alike. Executive Chef McHugh who has been with the Besh family restaurants for sometime, will be heading up the culinary staff at Luke San Antonio.
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Uylsses S. Grant's home in Galena

Chicagoans plagued by cabin fever and nature lovers alike, flock to the charming respite of Galena, IL.   Located about 160 miles from Chicago, Galena offers a  nearby,lovely, pastoral getaway. Nestled in the rolling hills of Northwest Illinois, Galena is filled with historic French Colonial and Victorian architecture, art galleries and specialty shops. The small town also supplies a host of outdoor activities including horseback riding, fishing, hot air ballooning , ice skating and skiing.  Noted for being the home of Civil War hear and 18Th president Ulysses S. Grant, a visit to his expansive house is a Galena must-do. Read More »

Sweet treats featured on the Chicago Chocolate Tour.

Sink into the sugary side of Chicago and take a tour of the city’s myriad candy makers and shops.  From the Loop, to Lincoln Park and Lakeview, Chicago is full of Chocolate havens but my favorite is the South Loop Chocolate Tour, guided by Chicago Chocolate Tours.  The excursion includes visits to six chocolate spots, including my favorite, Canady Le Chocolatier.  The sweet samples, history and architecture will fill both tummies and minds. Read More »

Holiday bon bons at French Market vendor, Canady Le Chocolatier

The newly opened Chicago French Market in the trendy West Loop neighborhood, supplies a dose of style and fresh ingredients to the Chicago shopping scene. This indoor, one-stop, market features 30 specialty vendors including gourmet cheese, wine, chocolate and pastries.  Modeled after outdoor European markets and operated by the Bensidoun family, who are the largest  developers of Paris markets, the Chicago French Market supports local farmers and artisans in a year-round venue. Even though most of the market’s offerings are food related, I found an array of  special gifts on my recent visit.