Fresh Family Meals at Grill House in Northbrook

**Disclosure: I did receive a complimentary meal in order to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I explored what has immediately become a local favorite: the Grill House in Northbrook, Illinois. The setting is comfortable, inviting and very welcoming for families. The menu incorporates family favorites and Greek flavors. With such a diverse menu and relaxed surroundings, the Grill House is a perfect places for families to get together and enjoy a meal.

Read More

Wickets Bar and Grill in Schaumburg for a Mom's Lunch Out (CLOSED)

**Disclosure: We received a complimentary meal for the purpose of conducting an accurate review. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% our own.

Tucked away next to the Loews Theater in the Streets of Woodfield is a joint worth straying a bit from the main drag to visit--Wickets Bar and Grill. Recently, we were able to stop by Wickets for a bite and to learn about the offerings at this local eatery. Our visit came at the perfect time because in addition to trying Wickets' food and experiencing its atmosphere, we were able to learn about some menu changes starting this month.

When we arrived, we were pleasantly greeted by Manager Dennis Antoniello. Dennis has had a lengthy career in the food industry and his passion for creating great food and a wonderful atmosphere for patrons shows. We learned that Dennis opened Wickets with the concept of creating good food that he enjoyed while catering towards the tastes of customers. While we were there, Dennis circulated through the restaurant and conversed with his patrons-truly showing his care for the customers. He explained to us that by learning about his customers, he can make a restaurant that is inviting for them.

Read More

Circa 57: Unparalleled Ambiance, Food from Scratch and a Warm, Family Feel

**Disclosure: We were treated to complimentary food items in order to conduct an accurate review of Circa 57. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% our own.


Meal time provides an opportunity to connect with your family and create cherished memories. However, parents may find it a challenge to settle on a restaurant that everyone will enjoy yet will keep the children entertained long enough for the parents to eat. On a recent snowy day, we were invited to take a peek at Circa 57 with the girls in toe. Immediately, the girls were inspired to explore Circa 57. Yes, I mean explore. You see, Circa 57 is more than a restaurant but is a trip back to the 1950's when cooking was from scratch, you could sidle up to a soda fountain for a grasshopper and restaurant patrons played tunes on a jukebox.

Nostalgia, family and a dream

During our visit, we had the pleasure of meeting owners Kimberly and Anthony Priola to learn some behind the scenes information about Circa 57.  Thinking about the 1950's inspires thoughts about a time when families did more together. This warm feel of family really came through when speaking to the Priolas. Circa 57 is a family dream from its creation down to the family recipes that populate the menu. The Priolas stress the use of fresh ingredients which is quite comfort to know! As parents, we are concerned about the food our children eat. The Priolas share the same concern in providing quality meals to their large restaurant "family."

So, how did Circa 57 become such a treasure trove of 1950's artifacts? Kimberly relayed to us the story of how Anthony learned about the closing of the '57 Heaven Museum in Branson. She initially feared that he would disappear for the auction and return with a number of cars. Instead, he returned with an amazing collection of 1950's memorabilia including a full kitchen---pieces truly from the 1950's. She proudly explained that he has always been an entrepreneur and the dream was born.

While we talked with Anthony and Kimberly, we sat in a '50's living room. Yes, a '50's living room complete with a couch with a plastic couch cover! Nearby, we viewed the pink 1950's kitchen and an alcove hiding a pink and blue bathroom. Even though we were eating, we had the warm cozy feel of being in a 1950's bungalow. Such an amazing experience considering we were visiting a restaurant in a busy Chicago suburb!

Read More

Chillin' at Kona Grill

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I found ourselves with a night out. Do to crazy schedules, we procrastinated on planning. When we finally made reservations, we looked at our options and ended up choosing Kona Grill. Kona has been on our list for awhile, so we thought that it would give it a try. When opportunity arises--seize it, right?

Admittedly, I did not research before going to Kona. I thought that it was going to be a steak house (á la Kona beef). I was definitely surprised when I opened the menu. For starters, there was an entire page dedicated to sushi--I was set! But, the choices did not end there. The menu was unexpectedly large and included many Hawaiian-inspired dishes as well as a healthy smattering of more general American fare. So, there really was something for everyone.

For my dinner, I opted to start with the seaweed salad. To my delight, the salad was not as sweet as others that I have had. Now, I do like a sweet treat here and there. However, I am not a total sweet fan. So, it was nice that Kona Grill held off on the sweet. Plus, I received a healthy portion---nice!

Read More