The Noodle

I believe a nomination is in order. After 17 years of cranking out acres of fresh pasta, showcasing local artists’ work and shoehorning what feels like the entire North Shore into a space the size of Mother Hubbard’s cupboard, I think it’s time The Noodle in Wilmette finally got its due.

MIB TV: Roasted Asparagus Salad

This summer, try using fresh ingredients straight from your garden to create unique dishes for your family and friends. Quince at the Homestead (1625 Hinman Ave., Evanston) is doing just that. They use the freshest ingredients, including herbs picked right from a rooftop garden above the restaurant. One beautiful seasonal dish is the Roasted Asparagus […]

Feast on Fruit: Strawberry Bruschetta and Strawberry Kale Salad

We’re able to get strawberries year round, but winter’s mealy stand-ins are no match for the juicy, sun-fattened berries of summer.   Their intense sweetness naturally lends itself to inclusion in desserts. We stuff strawberries into pies, crisps, tarts, shortcakes, cheesecakes and parfaits. We dip them in chocolate and smother them with whipped cream. But […]

Best of 2014: Dining

The voters have spoken! Thousands of readers took the time to tell us what they find best about the North Shore and Chicago. This year, over 90,000 verified votes were cast in over 11 categories in our annual Best of 2014 awards, and we couldn’t be prouder you responded in such numbers. Here are our […]

Best of 2014 Winners!

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. But for Make It Better’s Best of 2014, we wanted to build a little consensus. So we asked you to share your opinions, from your favorite pizza to your preferred spin class; from the hair salon you most frequent to your go-to spot for gala wear. And, wow, […]

Saranello's Pan-Roasted Chicken & Peppers

In the mood for classic Italian tonight? Try this easy and delicious dish from Executive Chef Mychael Bonner of Saranello’s in Wheeling. Serve with a mixed green salad, rice and garlic bread for sopping up all of the delicious juices. A crisp white wine will pair well with this dish. Pan-Roasted Chicken & Peppers Serves […]

Potluck Party Recipes for the Fourth of July

Fourth of July heralds hot days; it brings kids clutching melting red, white, and blue rocket popsicles and local politicians handing out booster buttons. We get fun runs and freedom. In one day, we pack in fairs, fireworks, parades and potlucks. When you show up at a neighborhood barbecue, dish in hand, you want to […]

Boltwood: Publican Chef Comes Home to Evanston

The loss of Lulu’s Dim Sum still stings. However, the blow has been softened by the appearance of Boltwood in its stead—a really good restaurant that could prove unstoppable once it hits its stride. Boltwood is the name of the freshman wing (and favorite cafeteria) at Evanston Township High School, the alma mater of Chef […]