First Bites Bash - I attended this event for the official kick-off to Restaurant Week 2017. Of the 63 featured restaurants at the event, I had an opportunity to taste, judge and LOVE/HATE about 40 of them. So much food, so little time. The event was from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, but by an hour I was tapped out from eating so much. However, I will say that spending the costly ticket price for this event, it was well WORTH it! I actually think I got off cheaper here than going to all the different restaurants within the limited time-frame. The highlights of the event, generous portions and lots of wine and spirits as parings to the food! My favorites were as follows: Cafe Spiaggia, which featured Gnoccho Frito Prosciutto, Parmigiano balsamic. The Prosciutto is a thinly sliced ham that has a salty taste which works fantastic with the balsamic. Very tasty, well worth a reservation during restaurant week! II Porcellino, which featured Porcellino Agnolotti (smoked prosciutto broth and fennel). Delicious, apparently prosciutto was the highlight of my palate last night. Again, well worth a reservation during restaurant week! Riva Crab House, which featured Seafood Gumbo! A nice twist for a big event, very, very good, felt like I was in NOLA. It doesn't appear to be on their normal menu, so I would make a reservation during restaurant week. River Roast, which featured Lamb Pastrami, shaved brussels sprouts, pickled mustard seeds and red onion with pumpernickel. Its on the regular menu, so if you can reserve during restaurant week, do so; however, limited food items from other restaurants doesn't make this as much of a priority since you can have this dish anytime. Siena Tavern, which featured Butternut Squash Tortellacci (Parmesan brown butter, crispy sage) THIS BY FAR WAS THE BEST DISH AT THE EVENT. I LOVE this item!!! Its on the regular menu, so I would say as I did above its not priority, but this item is ALWAYS a priority. DELICIOUS!!!! Zed451, which featured Butterscotch Bread Pudding (house-made vanilla bean marshmallow), I never had bread pudding until today, and my GOD was it good! But I think anything butterscotch is good. This is on the regular menu, but the atmosphere is defiantly worth experiencing during restaurant week. Be around beautiful people, eat...
Read moreThe Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier in Chicago is an exceptional wedding venue that offers an unforgettable experience. The wedding ceremony space is breathtaking, providing a panoramic view of Lake Michigan, creating a fairy tale atmosphere. The grand ambiance of the reception location, featuring high ceilings and sparkling lights, allows for personalization and adds an elegant touch. What sets this venue apart is its unparalleled views of the Chicago skyline, making it a dream for photographers. The staff is attentive and professional, ensuring flawless execution of every detail. If you want a magical wedding with stunning views, the Aon Grand Ballroom is the perfect choice in the heart of Chicago. We look forward to shooting here again! IG:...
Read moreThe Aon Building on the 80th floor is actually a members-only club called the Mid-America Club. This beautiful club spans over the entire 80th floor with stunning views, 5* Dining, and service. The Grand Ballroom is just one of many areas located throughout the club. The Mid-America Club is a great place for any type of event, wedding reception, business meeting or just simply enjoying a cocktail and networking with other members all while enjoying the incredible views from every direction. Every person that works here is the best at what they do and it shows every time I arrive and when my guests arrive as well. I sincerely recommend to any and all professionals to join all of us for great times, food...
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