Caoba

It is officially Spring time in Chicago. Until next week when it will probably snow or something. This was a fun weekend filled with walking the neighborhoods and shopping. Boyfriend and I spent Sat. walking around Milwaukee ave. And after both of us were felt defeated and empty handed we decided to find some grub. So we ducked into Caoba on Damen. To be honest I wasn't filled with high expectations but we were both really craving a seat by the open windows and some beers. Which is what we got.

Great people watching, especially in this trendy 'hood. Boyfriend is quick to point out how this area has really turned into the "new Lincoln Park" only without the Polo's you have American Apparel hipster folk. And although his hood off Division is very close- we admit that area is quickly being taken over by ex-Lincoln Parkers as well. (Not that there's anything wrong with that). 

The food at Caoba is nothing to write home about. Plain Mexican, but without that, something. The salsa was great, so was the veggie burrito but the tacos and tostada's were really bland. I found myself pouring hot sauce and my salsa over it to add some flavor. The happy hour special was nice though - $4.95 for all of the items (including all pictured above) with a purchase of a cocktail. Not bad.

It was a much needed break from shopping to sit back and people watch. A couple hours later we meet up with some friends and enjoyed some classic cocktails, pool and dancing at Bar Deville. A lovely little weekend indeed.

Next Opening

And so the madness ensues after Nick Kokonas wrote on Next's Facebook page (drum-roll please) that they are ready to open. Er, maybe not?  Email's regarding reservations are supposed to be sent out today 500 at a time-  investors and family first. Hopefully? I'm confused, who can keep up anymore. Well apparently the slew of Facebook followers do keep up. I picture this:  enthusiastic Achatz stalkers consistently commenting on how eager they are, hence refreshing their email accounts every second- as sweat trickles down their MacBooks. Ah.

I on the other hand... am hoping to sneak in the back entrance while taking a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood. There's a back door right? Don't mind the girl with the Nikon and crazed look in her eye.

Just kidding. I find the hype comical, and follow along when I can, but I'm not refreshing my email account every minute.. This tricky PR stunt won't fool me! Although, if I happen to come across a table I won't turn it down, duh.

And you thought Schwa was hard to get reservations for.

*4/7/2011 Update*
Tickets were up and running yesterday and sold out today. They'll be opening them here and there so check out the Facebook page for Next Restaurant for updates.
Thus far I've logged in but unable to find a date long enough to actually purchase, they sell out quick. Kudos for the team, but frustration for the diners. Guess I'll check back later! :)

*4/18/2011*
Well I got tickets for May! I was super busy with work etc. this week but patience paid off because I waited until the dust settled and ended up logging in this am to snag a table for 2. Results to follow sometime at the end of May. :)

Folklore for drinks

 

Sorry for the dim lighting but I was trying not to destroy the ambiance of this incredibly alluring restaurant. Folklore's dimly lit interior, stench of grilled meat, and mojitos galore certainly lure you in. Bf and I decided to stop in after my post-dinner mojito craving. Yes, I have random cravings for all things sweet and savory. We've been here for dinner before but never post-dinner for drinks. It ended up being the lovely random date-night.

 

The bar was a perfect setting to relax and people watch. Our bartender was very sweet and informed me that the blackberry and mango mojitos are made of fresh fruit.  So naturally I got one of each. :) The mango was nice, with a hint of fruit and not too sweet. The blackberry though- WOW. The best mojito I've had in ages. It tasted so fresh and the flavors with the mint were incredible. The bf started with a Manhattan and eventually gave in and got an original mojito. For dessert we ordered the Folklore which was perfect. 

A few sips later a lovely gentleman with a ponytail and guitar begun his acoustic set. It was the perfect compliment to a random and fun night. I love how a walk down your street in Chicago results in a night like this- totally transported to Argentina. I will be coming back for food soon so stay posted.

Thai Village

Well here it is, Thai Village. I've heard stories upon stories about this place and read about the Michelin Bib they got this year, so I finally made a spontaneous trip for dinner. My boyfriend stops in frequently during his lunch breaks and raves about the 5.95$ lunch special, which is really a great deal. First thing he brought to my attention was how it used to be BYOB. We noticed the beer selections so guess they got a liquor license. The beer selection was about as random as the decor: blue moon on tap, Austrian beer, Japanese beer, and my pick - Thai beer. Might was well.

The Singah Thai beer I got was awesome by the way. Totally hit the spot.
I ordered the classic - Pad Thai and he ordered the Kang Ped Phed; which is roasted duck, pineapple, tomatoes, basil and bamboo. His was really good I love the taste of the coconut milk and basil and the bamboo was unique. My Pad Thai was great as well. Simply good. The peanut sauce wasn't too overpowering and with some lime drizzled on top, perfection.

It's really odd inside. The decor doesn't really seem to go together. The chandeliers don't go with the bar that looks somewhat German, and the Victorian framed flower paintings don't really fit either. I don't get it. But who cares, the food is front and center.

I don't get the Michelin people either. What on earth made you decide Thai Village should get a Bib star? I'm not saying it's not deserved, I just wonder how they come up with the qualifications. I'm going to assume it's because of consistency. I bet this place consistently brings out great food and has great service. Regardless, I was pleased and stuffed.  Not blown away, but very pleased.