Tag Archives: culinary

Azul

Chef Clay Conley is at the helm of Azul. His diverse cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean flavors with Asian influences. The rising star chef honed his culinary reputation at Todd English’s acclaimed Olives restaurant, where he served as executive chef and culinary director.

At the focus of Azul, a magnificent white marble open kitchen and raw bar vie for your attention with the floor to ceiling windows that showcase the picturesque bay views. Once the food arrives however, your attention is sure to be captured by the dishes themselves – like Grilled Chop and Loin of Colorado Lamb with Harrisa, Charred Eggplant, Braised Shank Bastila and Feta and “A Study in Tuna Roll,” Raw Tuna, Tempura Avocado, Asian Sauces with Ossetra Caviar.

Azul’s wine program, designed by sommelier Cynthia Betancourt, features more than 700 world-class wines. The award-winning wine list encompasses a mix of current releases, to classic vintages from the finest producers, with the latest boutique wineries worldwide.

1. Culinary Fireworks at Taste of Chicago July 1-4

taste of chicagoIt’s hands down the biggest event of the summer in Chicago. The Taste of Chicago takes over Grant Park year after year featuring samples from hundreds of restaurants in what many deem as a culinary capital in America. Specials guests like culinary rock stars Giada De Laurentiis and Mario Batali will be there as well as an entire rock pavilion, the Patrillo Music Shell, who will have the likes of Rob Thomas, Gavin Rossdale, Broadway in Chicago and the Steve Miller Band on its stage. This festival goes through the July 4th long weekend, where it ends with a bang- literally. A magnificent fireworks display from Navy Pier, North and South sides converge on Grant Park making this event the kick-off to a fantastic Chicago summer.