It is just as amazing as you imagined. Stephanie Izard, Top Chef champion and genius behind Girl and the Goat, has nailed it again with Little Goat Diner in Chicago. She's so good that when you eat anything she has created, you think, "I thought I knew what great tasted like, but I was so … Continue reading Sunday Brunch at Little Goat
Author: Wendy Franzen
Seared Salmon with Creamy Leeks and Mushrooms
I am really, really crazy about salmon. I eat embarrassing amounts of it sashimi style, make it once a week for my family, and until recently I would order it whenever we went to Francesca's, craving the fabulous crispy sear that eluded me at home. But guess what? I have discovered the salmon searing trick … Continue reading Seared Salmon with Creamy Leeks and Mushrooms
The (Healing) Power of Food
If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know how passionate I am about food and that I derive a great deal of joy from cooking for friends and family. The intention varies from simple nourishment to celebration, but preparing meals is most often an act of love. When my mother died, several … Continue reading The (Healing) Power of Food
Modern Classic in Paris
I have two close friends traveling to Paris this month and I am wild with envy. We've discussed what to pack and have concluded that nothing beats neutral, modern-classic wardrobe staples (and yes, I consider leopard a neutral) for a trip to the most stylish city in the world. After all, they will blend seamlessly … Continue reading Modern Classic in Paris
Happy Easter
Wishing you and yours a weekend filled with light, love and the beauty of renewal. all photos via the aesthete and the dilettante
Catch of the Day
Life lesson: When a man who has sailed trans-Atlantic several times subtly suggests that you reschedule your deep sea fishing trip due to weather conditions, you should probably listen. "There are 5 to 7 foot waves out there, and 25 knot winds...sounds a little pukey," said my father. "We'll be fine! Hannah and I never … Continue reading Catch of the Day
Good Morning, Sunshine! Have Some Coffee Cake
Today marks the first day of spring, but here in the arctic tundra (also known as Chicago) we are waking up to temperatures in the low teens with wind chills hovering around zero. Whether you are anxiously waiting for your destination vacation or hunkering down at home for a stay-cation, I've created a warm citrusy … Continue reading Good Morning, Sunshine! Have Some Coffee Cake
The Weekend Kitchen: Lemon Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberry Lemon Compote
Nothing makes me happier than having time during the weekend to experiment in the kitchen. These lemon buttermilk pancakes take longer to put together than your basic buttermilk pancakes, but they are definitely worth the effort. They are light-as-air, cakelike confections that soak up the warm homemade compote or maple syrup for those who don't … Continue reading The Weekend Kitchen: Lemon Buttermilk Pancakes with Blueberry Lemon Compote
My Thai: Summer Rolls & Cashew Coconut Sundaes with Caramelized Pineapple
I spent a fair amount of time thinking about food during my juice cleanse, including what I wanted to make when it was finally over. A Thai inspired meal was at the top of my list as crunchy, bright, full-flavored ingredients were what I craved most while abstaining from "real" food. (To be honest I … Continue reading My Thai: Summer Rolls & Cashew Coconut Sundaes with Caramelized Pineapple
Suit Up
Are you ready for spring break? Now is the time to hop online and order the suits you've been eyeing so you can try them on in the privacy (and more forgiving light) of your own home. With most companies offering free shipping and free returns, it's worth it to order each suit not only … Continue reading Suit Up
the aesthete and the dilettante 