Food

Since the legalization of recreational marijuana in Illinois in 2020 brought broader cultural acceptance, stricter guardrails, and $1.6 billion in sales in 2023 alone, the bar has gotten higher on cannabis-infused food and drinks, from cake mix to drinks to gummies to hot sauce.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims who are able fast during daylight, then break a fast at sundown with iftar, a meal that is often used to feed those in need as well. 

The new series America the Bountiful goes beyond food scenes in cities to explore the culinary traditions of America's heartland via individual ingredients linked to specific places, like wild rice in Minnesota.

Kevin Hickey opened The Duck Inn on the residential street in Bridgeport where he grew up, and has since contributed to revitalizing the neighborhood, including through his involvement in the resurrection of the historic Ramova Theatre.

A few years ago, Francis Almeda opened a coffee shop dedicated to showcasing people's creative pursuits. Now he's a partner in everything from another coffee shop to a pizza business.

Three Michelin stars is one of the restaurant industry's highest honors. Chicago's Smyth became one of thirteen restaurants in the United States to get the award in November. How did they do it, and what effect does it have?

After steering Atelier to a Michelin star in its first year, Chef Christian Hunter is now opening a Cincinnati chili parlor and bar that will celebrate the Midwest.

An upcoming dinner in Glencoe honors recipes from Holocaust survivors. One recipe for a walnut cream cake was a childhood favorite of Steven Fenves, whose family ledger of recipes is in the culinary archives of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. 

Omarcito's in Logan Square, which recently won the Jean Banchet Award for Best Counter Service, serves up home-style Latin American plates and handhelds. Owner and chef Omar Cadena, "a big softie with big energy and a big voice," wants everyone to feel loved and included when they walk up to the window.

Trinidadian cuisine is a unique reflection of its multicultural history, with an iconic street food that incorporates Caribbean and Indian flavors. D's Roti and Trini Cuisine is one of only two Chicago restaurants where you can try it.

Photographer Kathleen Hinkel visited Delightful Pastries on Lawrence Avenue in Jefferson Park to get a behind-the-scenes look at the colorful preparation that goes into creating thousands of pączki in the days leading up to Lent. 

Over 50 Black-owned restaurants, bakeries, beverage purveyors, caterers, and more will be offering fixed menus, discounts, and special prices to help get people in during the slow months of winter.

Long Grove, Illinois is home to the state's oldest restaurant, The Village Tavern. What was once a watering hole 177 years ago is now a charming spot steeped in history.

The meat-filled Chinese dumplings jiaozi are often served at Chinese New Year in the hope that they bring prosperity because of their resemblance to ancient currency. Try a recipe from a chef who is in the process of opening a Taiwanese restaurant in Andersonville.

El Alebrije in Irving Park highlights Mexico’s less-understood regional specialties with an artfulness and attention to detail that suggests we still have much to discover – and eat.