Lollapalooza-inspired Dishes Take the Stage

Lollapalooza-inspired Dishes: In case the rampant crowds and musical fever pitch hasn't given it away, Lollapalooza is this weekend. One of the biggest outdoor concert events in the world, Lolla brings together hordes of musicians big and small for a three-day spree of jams in Grant Park. An event of this magnitude merits ample dining and drinking in celebration, and Chicago restaurants and bars certainly roll out the red carpet with Lolla-themed specials to mark the joyous occasion. 

(Falafill cones)

The Boundary: Three special Lolla-themed cocktails are currently being served at The Boundary through August 3. Inspired by some of Lolla's featured superstars this year, the drinks include Lorde's Royal Sidecar made with Crown Royale, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup; the Head and the Heart featuring Bacardi Oakheart Spiced Rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine, and a cherry; and the So Fresh and So Clean made with Effen Cucumber, lavender syrup, soda, and a lemon garnish. 

Primehouse Bar: An ideal way to kickstart a day at Lollapalooza is with glam bubbly at the Primehouse Bar at David Burke's Primehouse. The bar is hosting a mimosa bubbles bar over the musical weekend from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Friday through Saturday, and 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Sunday. Plus, pastry chef Jove T. Hubbard will be scooping up special ice cream flavors on Friday from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. as part of his weekly Jove T's Ice Cream Shop pop-up: banana toffee ice cream and raspberry cheesecake ice cream. 

Mercadito: While we're on the subject of kickstarting Lolla mornings, Mercadito has a pre-festival brunch sure to put a skip in your step. Because you need to binge on a little bit of chilaquiles in order to amass stamina for the frenzied crowds. Each table brunching at Mercadito get a complimentary order of chilaquiles to share, and the restaurant will also be doling out Mercadito-emblazoned temporary tattoos for all your badass stylish needs and desires. 

(Magnolia Bakery embraces Lollapalooza)

Magnolia Bakery: For something less badass and more adorable, get thee to Magnolia Bakery for their special Lollapalooza cupcakes. Made with classic vanilla or chocolate cakes topped with blue and orange buttercream and edible blue glitter, the whimsical treats are available August 1 through 3. Plus, $1 from each cupcake will be donated to Foundations of Music, so you can feel good about indulging. 

Falafill: Here's a fun, offbeat snack for Lolla-lovers: Falafill is featuring "LollaFILLooza fries during the festival, a dish comprised of fries topped with falafel in a to-go cone with choice of sauce. To boot, when concert-goers show their Lolla wristband, they get one free! 

- Matt Kirouac