Seasons 52 is a Flat Out Winner

Chicagoland foodies love nothing more than a good restaurant opening. Will we FINALLY find the perfect entree or dessert to surpass all others? The buzz around Seasons 52 Fresh Bar & Grill has been building ever since the first construction crews arrived on-scene at the former Bennigan’s Schaumburg location, just west of Streets of Woodfield. Happily, I think the restaurant is living up to its hype. Seasons 52 is a refreshing dining option for the northwest suburban market, focusing on a weekly evolving menu showcasing dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. My exploratory visit allowed me to sample shrimp & crab stuffed mushrooms which arrived in a delightful escargot dish (pictured), tiger shrimp penne loaded with fresh veggies and tossed in a light herb sauce, plus a mango-cheesecake dessert shooter to top off the meal. The surprising standout was the tomato basil flatbread we shared (pictured). Very basic, yet deliciously executed with plump juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and fresh basil on super-crisp crust. It arrives to your table on a long rectangular plank, and is plentiful enough to share or order as an entrée. Fresh may be redundant, but that’s exactly what one would expect from the name right? This would also be a great place to take family, friends, or clients who may be on restricted diets. The menu allows the quality of the foods to speak for themselves, without adding additional salt or heavy sauces. I look forward to my next visit to delve more into their extensive wine list and maybe enjoy some live music in the bar. I predict Seasons 52 will be a flat-out winner for more than just their outstanding flatbread, but also their ever-changing & approachable menu.

-Amanda, 32, Carpentersville

Mid-Life Crisis -- The Musical

I had the chance to see Mid-Life Crisis -- The Musical at the Metropolis theatre. It is a must see for anyone over the age of 40. There is not a single weak link in the hysterical cast of 6 . This production could be called Second City meets middle age to music. Everyone can relate to the health problems that creep up on you as you get older and what better way to express it than to music with humor. The audience barely had time to catch its breath between laughs. If you want a great night out and something you will never forget, you have got to see this.

-Tom, Arlington Heights, IL

Wedding Planning Tips

Wildberry Pancakes and Café was a great spot to plan the bachelorette party with the bridesmaids. They all favor the chocolate Chip pancakes even though everything was so reasonable in price. Then we went to Costco which is so close to shop for items needed for the party and the new house. The marketing person there says that all we need is any one coupon from the current booklet to scan at the check out. All items that you buy will automatically be entered at the coupon offer. This is so nice and convenient for the 4 weeks. Another great idea for the bride to be and their families if there is any concern about those first spotlight dances is to take a 4 week Social and wedding class dance from the Schaumburg Park District. We are really enjoying the instructor and all that extra exercise.

-Anne, Elgin, IL

Chicago Cardinals

The Chicago Cardinals pro indoor football will had their ribbon cutting and home opener against the Columbus Aces on Saturday April 10. They play all home games at the Odeum Expo Center in Villa Park. Their season will end Saturday June 5 against the Ft. Wayne Firehawks. The players are anxious for everyone to come out and cheer them on as experienced at the Meet and Greet in Roselle. Some of the players have played professional and semi-professional. At the Odeum, the seats are really close to the playing field so that the fans can really get more into the game as opposed to other stadiums where they have played.

-Anne, Elgin, IL

Blues Bar - Mt. Prospect

I had the opportunity to go to Blues Bar in Mt Prospect with some friends last Friday night. A band called “1969” was playing – they play music from the 60’s and 70’s, Woodstock, etc – what a great show! Hayden does a killer Janis Joplin, and Mike’s moves for Joe Cocker are right on! They all dress the part as well, so it was like taking a trip back to that era. We ended up staying there until almost 1:00 a.m.!! Recommend seeing them – their schedule is posted on their website www.music1969.com
We sampled some of their food items – my friends had the chicken quesadillas, which were really good, and I had the smoked (spicy) chicken wings…all I can say is WOW! The smokey flavor was subtle, but oh so good, especially with the hot seasonings. They also have mild and other flavored wings. If you need a little “cold snack” with your food, their list of beers takes up an entire page – one of my friends had the Dortmunder Ale from Germany – great choice. If you’re looking to catch a game or event on tv, there are screens throughout, as well as one really humongous screen on the first floor behind the bar, which can be seen from the second floor balcony area as well. There’s also an outdoor patio area for al fresco dining on those warm sunny days, or balmy nights. It’s close to the Metra train station, so even coming in from the city or far northwest suburbs is a breeze. Good food & drink – I give it a “thumbs up”. Their website is www.blues-bar.com

-Bren, Mt. Prospect, IL