Writers’ Theatre hosts a marvelous party of Noël Coward favorites

 
UPDATE: Extended through April 18. Also, see more Coward in Chicago.
Noël Coward (1899–1973) is one of the lasting symbols of the glamour and wit of the pre-World War II era. Playwright, composer, lyricist, actor, singer, director, producer … but more than those: As Time magazine said of him, “Coward’s greatest single gift has not been [...]

25 restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner in Chicagoland

Bin 36, River North.

Birch River Grill, Arlington Heights.

Cafe des Architectes, Gold Coast.

Carlucci, Downers Grove.

Coco Pazzo Cafe, Streeterville.

Dine, West Loop.

Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace.

Glen Prairie, Glen Ellyn.

Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse, River North, Rosemont and Lombard.

Italiasia Restaurant, River North.

Jacky’s on Prairie, Evanston.

Michael, Winnetka.

Mity Nice Grill, Magnificent Mile.

NoMi, Magnificent Mile.

The Pony, Lakeview.

Shaw’s Crab House, River North and [...]

Nine wine times: A harvest of tastings and dinners across Chicagoland

Quaff your way across Chicago and the suburbs in October with a variety of fall wine events.

Village Vintner Friday Night Wine Down, Carpentersville, 6–10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, no cover.
The first of a series of twice monthly events for wine lovers, featuring live music, food and wines for sale by the glass or bottle. [...]

10 things you should know about Greek wine

 
Greek wines are Louie Alexakis’ passion. The enthusiastic owner of the new Avli Estiatorio in Winnetka says Greece is rising on the world’s vinicultural stage.
At Avli, Alexakis pairs a menu of contemporary Greek cuisine with an all-Greek wine list that goes far beyond the roditis and retsina most people think of when it comes to [...]

Imminent openings

Early adopters will have lots to choose from in coming weeks. About-to-open Chicagoland restaurants include:

Avli Estiatorio, Greek, Winnetka: Louis Alexakis, former general manager of Greek Islands and owner of the erstwhile Ouzeri, has recruited culinary expert Diane Kochilas direct from Greece as consulting chef for this 112-seat eatery specializing in regional Greek cuisine. Look for [...]