ANSWER: The famous face in the Pretty Good Dance Moves "Demons Dancing" video you saw at the end of tonight's show is quirky Kristen Schaal -- you know, Mel from Flight of the Conchords. Word on the street is she's a pretty cool chick!
BONUS: Check out the credits on the Youtube vid. The editor? Yours truly :)
One of my most favorite summer pastimes is digging through the piles-upon-piles of treasures at the Chicago Antique Market. Hundreds of vintage connoisseurs gather the best from the Midwest and beyond -- and haul it to Randolph Street the last weekend of every month...
I went this past Saturday and scored the awesome belt above... for $10!!! I snapped some pics of all of the wonderful gadgets and gizmos... check 'em here.
Public Enemies opens today in theaters, and this lucky lady got to chat with three-quarters of the stars. Johnny Depp sadly stopped short of lil' ole "metromix" on the Red Carpet -- but, I did get to query Christian Bale, Marion Cotillard and Director Michael Mann. Enjoy kiddies...
Do you like music? Do you like a WHOLE bunch of music? Do you like the August heat? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions... read on!
All of us at "metromix" love you so much that were giving away 10 passes to Lollapalooza 2009. Too good to be true? We know. Check out the awesome line-up here and watch this Thursday night to find out how you can win...
Just yesterday I spoke with actor and poker player Vince Van Patten about MJ. The two grew up next door to each other... and Vince had nothing but the best to say about the entire Jackson family.
TMZ is reporting that Michael Jackson was rushed to the hospital and has died of Cardiac Arrest. He was 50.
If your commute down Illinois was detoured last night -- it's cause the West Coast took over the Third Coast for the Chicago premier of "Public Enemies" starring Johnny Depp, Christian Bale and Marion Cotillard. As far as Red Carpets go, this was a pretty calm one... Marion was more beautiful in person than words can describe (the new face of Dior was wearing the eponymous designer), Christian had the most piercing eyes and Johnny, well... I barely even get to see his face :(
See -- there's a pecking order on the scarlett runway, the big stations are at the front of the line and "metromix"... let's just say we were somewhere in the middle. Needless to say, Johnny boy only made it a few reporters in before heading over to the crowds and signing literally hundreds of autographs for screaming fans. Guess you can't blame the guy! Anyway, here's some video from top-of-the-pack WGN...
And check out pics here!
No bright lights or big theaters here, but Broadway Street in Edgewater has a charm all its own...
Moody's Pub (5910 N. Broadway)
For beers, burgers and a breath of fresh air.
Ethiopian Diamond (6120 N. Broadway)
Eats from another world, that are out of this world!
Bananas Foster Cafe (1147 W. Granville)
A casual spot for "European comfort food" breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Broadway Antique Market (6130 N. Broadway)
More than 75 vendors bring their wares to this emporium for all things old and awesome.
Third Coast Comics (6234 N. Broadway)
The go-to for comics and graphic novels on the Northside.
I got my hands dirty (very dirty!) this past Saturday at Chicago's largest day of service! Serve-A-Thon is a ginormous annual event put on by Chicago Cares -- thousands of volunteers are sent out to public schools all over town to help paint and beautify the spaces where 30,000 Chicago children play and learn.
Watch this awesome "Mural in a Minute" video to check out what I spent my day slaving away on (see if you can spot me!) at Hendricks Elementary School. It actually took about five hours...
Join Jeremy Piven and Billy Dec this Saturday night for the Piven Theater Workshop Benefit at Rockit. The annual bash raises scratch for the Chicago arts... and among the drinks and do-gooding, you can also win a walk-on role in Entourage!
Get tickets here...
Bertha Mason takes over your kitchen with her homespun recipes. And remember... "if you're feeling bitter, just add butter and you'll be feeling better."
Bertha Mason’s Heaven and Hell Cookies
Ingredients:
1 cup of all-purpose flour
½ cup of cocoa
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
4 oz of melted semi-sweet chocolate
½ cup of soft unsalted butter
1 ½ cups sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
To prepare:
Pre-heat oven to 325°. Sift flour, cocoa, soda, salt, cinnamon, and peppers. Set aside. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Scrape down side of bowl. Add eggs. Cream until incorporated. Scrape down. Add melted chocolate. Mix and scrape down. Mixture will look dark and grainy. Add vanilla. Mix. Add dry ingredients. Mix. Dough will be loose and not very firm. Scoop cookies on to a prepared cookie sheet. Use a 1 ½ inch ice cream scoop. Space cookies 2 inches apart on sheet. Chill dough until firm. Before baking, dip tops of cookies in sugar. Bake 12-15 minutes. Cookies will be soft and gooey. Remove from oven and allow to cool on tray. Remove once cookies are set.
Remember that these cookies are spicy like damnation, but sweet like salvation. Enjoy!
Make Butterscotch Blondies and Magically Easy Fudge after the jump...
Yup, what I do for "metromix!" So last Friday I was shooting wraps for the show... just minding my own business, when a pigeon had the nerve to use my shoulder as its personal port-o-potty. GROSS. Anyway, you better watch this week to make it worth my while!
Does anyone know where the "good luck" myth started? It's hard to believe that avian fecal matter with bring me anything but disease, but I guess we'll see...
Lot's to do this weekend -- Gospel Fest, Printers Row Lit Fest (I'll be there on Saturday!) and for all you browsers/collectors, the 57th Street Art Fair. This one's free kiddies, so drop by for jewelry, photography, printmaking, painting, sculpture and so on. PLUS, this year they're doing an Art Buying Boot Camp to help all you cash-strapped art lovers find that perfect piece, for the perfect price!
Yes, kiddos -- apparently wearing a towel is as difficult as wearing a blanket. Not that hard, right? Enter the spawn of Snuggie, the Wearable Towel. Talk amongst yourselves...
Yet another hysterical "music video" from the beloved Speidi. The duo are the ultimate train wreck -- that you can't stop watching!!! Is it just me, or does it seem like Heidi doesn't know the words to her own song?
More spandex ridiculousness after the jump...
Truth be told, I'm an avid Target shopper... and was super excited to get a sneak peak at the first-ever pop-up store in Chicago -- the Bullseye Bazaar. Doors opened this morning to the three-day fashion extravaganza (right on Michigan Avenue!)... and it's kind of impressive to see how they tranformed the first floor of the Trib Tower into a bonafied boutique. Red-and-white everywhere! Drop by now through Saturday to get your hands on on the latest styles before everyone else.
Gossip Girl's Ed Westwick and Jessica Schorz, and Kate Walsh of Private Practice also stopped by to show their bullseye pride. Check out red carpet pics after the jump...
The Blackhawks Beard-A-Thon continues as the team skates toward a Stanley Cup. And as exciting as a playoff game may be -- you should watch facial hair grow! Okay, maybe not the same... but it is for a good cause. Rate-a-beard, grow your own, or build one online if you're follicly challenged. As an added bonus,
With all the swine flu sneers aimed at "the other white meat," I thought -- what better time to rehash a story on my favorite pig product? Don't be hatin' on the bacon! From breakfast to dinner and dessert, it seems Chicago restaurants can't get enough of the sizzlin' stuff...
Mmmm... TAMALLIS. Learn how to make this delicious snack from South of the border. It's easy, I swear!
Whether you look back fondly or cynically at the momentus day, prom is no doubt expensive! Between the dress, shoes, jewelry and such -- you could feed a small village. Enter the Glass Slipper Project, a non-profit that's been making a prettier prom for Chicago teenagers since 1998. For the weeks before the big day, girls can stop by the pop-up boutique and pick out a gown and the whole shebang for free! Over the last decade, Glass Slipper has helped make magical memories for more than 10,000 young ladies who otherwise couldn't afford it.
My friends and I (and our Moms!) volunteered this past Saturday and it was so great to see these girls light up when they found "the" dress... click here for a more photos.
Yup, it's tommorrow! Don't have anything planned for Mama Earth? Here's a quick & easy way to lighten the load on your conscience...
Log on to DirectMail.com and opt out of junk mail. So simple! The average person receives over 500 unwanted snail mails a year -- if we all took two seconds to say "no thanks!" to Ed McMahon and his million dollars, we'd spare 100 million trees annually.
Star Wars puns aside, our Jackie Tranchida of Metromix visited the Chicago Force - Chicago's women's tackle football team.
Watch Jackie put on the gear and hit the gridiron with the women of the Force. Jackie found out - the hard way - it's not some powder puff, flag-football, dainty game to be taken lightly, these women mean business.
The Force's first home game is this Saturday, April 18th at 7 pm. All home games are on Saturdays and are played at North Park University's football field. Come out and watch the Force defend their Eastern Conference crown.
For more information about the Chicago Force check out www.chicagoforcefootball.com
Susan Boyle is 47-years-old, unemployed and has never been kissed. And now, she's the biggest thing in Britian! The amatuer singer wowed everyone watching Britain's Got Talent this week -- including notorious tough guy Simon Cowell -- with her powerful rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream." It gives you the chills. Can't wait to see what the industry turns this poor woman into...
Another amazing BGT performance by Paul Potts after the jump...
What ever happened to Dinosaurs? Not the creatures, the TV show! While entirely bizarre and 90s, I'm kinda nostalgic for it... and TGIF! Not sure why this popped to mind, but the clip reminds me of myself everyday around 2:00 when the food coma sets in...
"I'm the baby, gotta love me."
Grab your reusable tote and get ready for delicious farm fresh goodies. I'm showing you how to keep it green two-fold this Farmers Market season!
So the home opener got postponed, but the merriment goes on. What to do before and after the game?
Sports Novelties and Premiums (4855 S. Racine)
For all things FAN-tastic. Pick up gear before you head to the ballpark -- or bar.
Morrie O'Malley's Hot Dogs (3501 S. Union)
One of the best Chicago style dogs around town. So yummy even Northsiders make the trip to Bridgeport for this deliciousness!
Ramova Grill (3510 S. Halsted)
The super-secret chili recipe here has people flocking to this old timey diner. Thirteen spices go into each bowl of tomato-y goodness.
Schaller's Pump (3714 S. Halsted)
This legendary South side watering hole opened its doors in 1881 and is billed as the oldest bar/restaurant in the city. Always a hot spot come game time.
This weekend on "metromix" we took you inside Simone's in Pilsen. The decor is out of this world, or I should say out of the past. The design team Alter Ego works along with Salvage One to take other people's trash and make it into treasure. Jackie checked out Salvage One a little while back, and we thought we'd show you what she found. Take a look:
Yup, that's me! Learn to flip this, that and every which way at Gym Wheel class. Find out how you too can invert yourself, by clicking here.
Watch the video after the jump!
Take the Pink Line to this awesome neck of the woods, and stop by some of our favorites!
Cafe Jumping Bean
For coffee, sandwiches and a great place to hang!
Pilsen East
AKA the Chicago Art Distrist. Find the best from local artists at the many storefront galleries.
No Coast
Awesome crafts from the folks behind this artist collective... for under $50!
Dulceria Lupitas
Indulge in sweet & spicy Mexican candies at this coloful shop...
Take Me Out Chinese
Known for their Lil' Hotties wings that are somehow both cripsy and tender. Mmmm...
Knee Deep Vintage
The best spot in town for va-va-vintage... with most everything under $25!
Maybe our dads were on to something when they would trudge downstairs in their underwear and tell us to turn off the damn lights. Then again... my Dad's wallet was the driving factor, not his eco-conscience.
Still, Earth Hour is this Saturday! By turning off the juice to your lamps for a mere 60 minutes, you can join the hopeful billion people around the world rooting for Mama Earth.
Don't know what to do for an hour? How about a great view of the dark, but green city, from C-view? Or dinner by candle light at Deleece?
When he wanted to raise a chunk of change for a good cause, Eamon Daly turned to his fearsome facial hair to lift things -- and your spirit! For every $100 raised for his charity of choice - the Off The Street Club - the amateur stuntman adds another pound to his weekly beard-breaking lift. We caught up with Eamon at Wild Dogz in Evanston, where Lift 6 meant suspending 42 lbs of gyros meat from his face. Help him get to $5000 by donating at ThingsMyBeardCanLift.com.
Check out the photo gallery here... and tune in to "metromix" this Thursday for the full story!
Hi all... it's Jackie! Wanted to make sure you all peeped my new Eco-Maniac segment. Every week-ish, I'm giving you tips and tricks of the trade on how to live light on the Earth. From locally brewed beer, to a DIY green household cleaner... tune-in to keep Chica-Go Green...
A few recipes you can't burn! Karen Taira from the Evanston Ecology Center shows us how to whip up eco-friendly beauty products, using ingredients you'll find right in your kitchen...
Lip Balm
Ingredients:
4 tsp beeswax or soy wax (grated)
4 1/4 tsp jojoba oil
6-10 drops peppermint or citrus essential oil
To make:
Melt wax and jojoba oil in a double boiler (or microwave at 15 sec intervals until melted). Stir well and remove from heat. Add essential oil and mix well. Pour into container and let cool completely before using. About 24-48 hours.
More after the jump...
If you're looking for a way to get your green on for St. Patty's Day...
The blond that changed the definition of beauty reached 50 candles, and not a wrinkle on her face (though she is looking a little plastic lately, no?).
Happy Birthday Babs!
For more on any of these awesome West Town joints...
West Town Bikes
2418 W. North Avenue
Lovely, A Bake Shop
1130 N. Milwaukee Avenue
Alcala's Western Wear
1733 W. Chicago Avenue
Dovetail
1452 W. Chicago Avenue
A. Vision
910 N. Damen Avenue
City Soaps
2557 W. Chicago Avenue
We're number 6! We're number 6! Normally that kind of enthusiasm is reserved for gold, silver or bronze... but when it comes to Mother Earth, we'll take what we can get. Chicago was just ranked 6th on the Environmental Protection Agency's Top Ten list of green cities. That, combined with the estimated $60 billion of stimulus dough going towards the eco-ecomony, and we're at least pointed in the right direction.
Daylight Saving Time... the ultimate Catch 22! Yes, you get an extra hour of sunlight, but you must also give up an hour of zzzz's in the morning and 60 minutes of your well-deserved weekend. But, Arby's is trying to tip the scales in favor of this dubious convention with their CHANGE YOUR CLOCK, CHANGE YOUR BURGER promotion. On top of putting new batteries in the smoke detector this Sunday, spring forward and into any Arby's in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana to try out their new Roastburger for FREE (with a drink purchase). And remember to tell them you want to "change your burger!"
THIS VIDEO IS NSFW.
You know you were thinking it too! Is it really that hard to change the channel while wearing a blanket? I'm gonna go with NO. But whether you love or hate it, the snuggie is taking over...
***Or you could just turn your bathrobe backwards... save ten bucks, and your street cred.
Failed-musician Paris Hilton makes a cameo on Snoop Dogg's new variety show, Dogg After Dark. And she's RAPPING!!! If the rest of the show, which premieres tonight on MTV, is anything like this snippet I won't be tuning in...
Northwest is serving what now??? CNN Reporter Zain Verjee must have had too many mini-bottles off the drink cart... cause she slipped up not once, but TWICE on a very 'sensitive' word!
Or maybe she's doing her best Ace Ventura impression... after the jump.
Bet you wish you self-censored a bit more now, huh? The web is buzzing about a few sneaky changes Facebook made to its 'terms of use.' Basically, anything you say/do/post is now property of the interweb giant. Even if you delete your profile! Kinda shady, no? Watch out Michael Phelps...
If your liver has finally recovered from the debauchery known as TBOX -- the Twelve Bars of XMas -- time to give it another go at Bead Quest! Celebrate Mardi Gras in Chicago AND earn beads while staying fully clothed. It's all going down on Saturday, February 21st... starting at Murphy's Bleachers and ending... hopefully with beignets!
Get tix here...
If you've exhausted all your romantic options or VDay just makes you a little queasy... here are a few alternative ways to toast Cupid, sweetheart or cynic!
It was a gala of gluttony... all of the cocoa you could stomach. Forty of Chicago's top chefs came together to raise scholarship funds for students in the pastry arts, and I lent my back as a chocolate canvas! The fourth annual benefit at the French Pastry School raised nearly $50,000.
If you want to donate to something sweet, click here.
More pics after the jump...
Rasoi means 'kitchen' in Hindi, and you'll love the smell of yours while you whip up these tasty recipes...
Kachumbar (Mixed Vegetable Salad)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Serves: 3 - 4
Ingredients:
½ medium Onion (red preferably)
1 medium Tomato
1 Cucumber or fresh Pickle, peeled
½ inch fresh Ginger
5 pieces Red Radish
2 tbls fresh Cilantro, chopped
Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
½ tsp Chat Masala
Fresh Lime Juice
To prepare:
Finely chop onion, ginger, tomatoes, cucumber/fresh pickle, red radishes and cilantro and place in a mixing bowl. Add salt, pepper, lime juice and chat masala to the bowl. Mix the ingredients and chill for 15 to 30 minutes. Serve chilled.
**Note: Add finely chopped jalapeno or bird eye chili peppers to make the salad spicy. Cover the bowl before putting it in the refrigerator.
More yummy eats after the jump...
You don't wanna know what happens when someone walks in my shot...
Diva!!!
Dear Facebook,
First off, I want to wish you a Happy Birthday! I can't believe it's already been five years since you first snuck into my dorm room to battle my beloved Friendster. Victory was certainly yours and we've spent many a long night since reading up on (stalking?) the boys from the baseball team, the freshman trying to gain passage into my sorority, and where my "friends" spent their summers. You've grown so much in such a short time, and I can't tell you how proud I am of you.
Keep reading after the jump...
The badass chicks of the Windy City Rollers have their home opener this Saturday, January 31st. Watch Beth Amphetamine, Riley Coyote, After Bertha and Sonya MouthShut go for the jugular in the first bout of what will surely be bone-crushing season.
Tickets start at $20...
Yours truly,
Jaxis of Evil
From breakfast to dinner and dessert, it seems Chicago restaurants can't get enough of the sizzlin' stuff...
Yolk (South Loop)
At Yolk, the bacon goes right into the waffle batter to make sure every bite is smokin'. Choose your favorite eggs to top it off. Drizzle syrup and dig in!
The Fifty/50 (Wicker Park)
Not only is this three-story spot mixing up a Wobblestopper (Fifty/50's take on a Bloody Mary) with a strip of bacon in it... dive into an all-you-can-eat pile of the fried pork for $9.95.
Sushi X (River West and Lincoln Park)
The Five-O roll is, of course, a tribute to the men in blue. Inside this massive maki find yellowtail, scallions, cilantro, and bacon... all rolled up in rice and more bacon, then wrapped with prociutto and topped with eel sauce and pineapple mustard mayo.
Theory (River North)
This new spot in River North is a lover of all thing pork! Maple bacon and ribs spend about eight ours together in the smoker, so you get all of the unadulterated flavor.
More (Gold Coast)
Taste the sweeter side of the pig product at More. The cupcake shop is serving up two sweet treats, the bacon maple and a BLT.
... of Chocolate! While I could do without the weather, Febraury is one of my favorite months because of this super sweet event. The French Pastry School's "For the Love of Chocolate" is an annual gala for you and your pallete like none other. There's chocolate to eat, see and wear at this extravaganza. I've donned a chocolate-covered gown for the last two years and this time around you'll find me getting painted (with chocolate!) in the Cocoa Sutra room.
Find out more here. And if you wanna join in on the indulgence... enter to win tickets on the right side of this page.
Just got an email with the above attachment... a beautifully executed vault onto the bandwagon. Hope the marketing person gets a raise for this one!
Ya, I didn't get the memo about smiling :(
Get your groove on FOR FREE with a pass to a six-week House Dance class! All you have to do is send an email telling us why your skills are in need of some serious remodeling (*house* dance, get it?)
Take a look at the President Elect on Check, Please! circa 2001. What are the chances we'll get him to stop by metromix???
It's been a doozy of a year... and the folks at JibJab say good riddance to 2008 with this...
Beer is for drinking and fish are for eating -- until now! Refresh yourself head-to-toe with these offbeat spa treatments...
Beer Facial at Exsalonce Spa (Roscoe Village)
Rubbing on a can of Old Style won't do the trick! Indulge in a beer enzyme facial to exfoliate and moisturize your skin.
Dr. Fish Pedicure at Cat Scratch Nails (Aurora)
Let toothless 'garra rufa' fish nip away at your calloused toes, leaving your feet smooth and sexy!
Week 7: Wham! Last Christmas
As our gift to you this holiday season -- we're implanting George Michael's sweet sounds into your head until the big guy squeezes himself down the chimney. Or whistles from the bathroom stall next to you. Santa? Is that you?
Who knew there was more than one flavor of sugar cookie? Turn out the folks at the namesake store are whipping up about two dozen tasty treats... from blood orange to bananas foster and gingerbread!
Try out the recipe for yourself (after the jump), or let Sugar Cookie do all the work for you...
All it takes is one twinkling light and I'm busting out the red-and-white stockings! But for those a little more Bah Humbug -- you can borrow a few of my favorite ways to get in the spirit of the season...
1. Millenium Park
B-Y-O-S (Bring Your Own Skates) and take a free spin around the glistening rink -- or rent a pair for only $10 to twirl under the city skyline.
More festive fun after the jump...
Continue reading "Top Five Ways To Get In The Holiday Spirit" »
Tom Cruise was almost back on my NICE list after a fantastically random cameo in "Tropic Thunder." But his latest deperate attempt to get 'down' with the youth of America has solidified my sending him a lump of coal. Ya... I watch The Hills, but I'm a 25-year-old girl. Why... why did he take time away from his beloved Scientology to impart wisdom on The Hills After Show to the King & Queen of famewhoring. Up next... Hollywood Squares? Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
Savor a memory of when he was remotely likeable with a "Tropic Thunder" remix. After the jump...
Week 6: Meat Loaf "I'd Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That)"
Not only will this song stick with you for the rest of the day... nay, the rest of the week -- it's sure to make you crave the singer's namesake dish and some taters!
Shop till you drop - literally - at the 8th Annual One of a Kind Show and Sale. With hundreds of crafters peddling everything from art, fashion, furniture, jewelry, and gourmet food... you'll get all of your holiday gifting done in a day (and sure, why not something special for yourself)!
Stay warm and well-shopped now thru Sunday at the Merchandise Mart. Entry is only $10. Click here for more...
We've got a real life Winter Wonderland at our fingertips! Get into the spirit of the season at the Morton Arboretum Holiday Celebration. It's a frosty kindgom indoors and out at this 1,700-acre nature museum. Ring in Christmas with a sparkling Snow Queen, seven (yes, seven) beautifully decorated trees, the "Evergreen Express" trolly ride and of course, Santa!
Located at I-88 and Rte. 53 in Lisle, the exhibit runs through January 4th. For tix and times click here.
Jackie recently caught up with funnyman Jeffrey Ross to talk about all things roast-worthy, including herself and Sarah Palin.
It could happen! To boost revenue, the CTA is once again mulling over selling the names of train stops to corporate sponsors. With our current rainbow-colored 'L' lines... you might see some horrifying, yet amusing names getting thrown into the hopper.
Read up here... and for more 'entertaining' suggestions... Gapers Block.
President Elect Astley? Yup, Barack Obama has been Rick Roll'd...
That's German for Merry Christmas!!! Yup, it's that time of year to fill up on schnitzel and Glühwein (hot spiced wine) at the Christkindlmarket. The German market is one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit... just make sure to layer.
Stop by Daley Plaza tomorrow at noon to check out the 95th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony... you might see us there. And as always, watch "metromix" this week for all the fun!
No joke... it's real. And yes, they do serve the namesake delicacy. This Wednesday the folks of Huntley, Illinois will celebrate the 26th Annual Turkey Testicle Festival. It's only about an hour from the city, so if a 'Black Wednesday' bar crawl just doesn't put a sparkle in your eye anymore...
Just sayin'.
We endure smoggy air, unbearable traffic and copious amounts of weekend rain. Why? Cause we're tried and true Chicagoans. We're known for our pizza, improv, sports teams (the good, the bad and the ugly)... and now, as the "Most Stressful City." Yup, Forbes Magazine just gave us the top spot on that list. So we dug up a few ways to help us all be a little more Type B...
Pour Vous (Wicker Park)
Take the time to pamper yourself with help from this bath & body shop. Drop by their Anniversary Party on Saturday, November 27th for discounts, snacks and sudsy fun!
Galos Salt Caves (Portage Park)
It's a soothing spot that heals you inside and out... just sit back, relax and breathe. Vitamins and minerals in the salt help your respiratory system while the iodine refreshes your skin.
Chicago Sweatlodge (Portage Park)
This one's just for the boys... purify, detoxify and beautify at the Chicago Sweatlodge. Bounce between hot & cold for the full effect of this old world sauna.
Silken Tent (Glenview)
For suburban stress relief, make your way to Glenview. Silken Tent is an eco-freindly spa taking care of mind, body and spirit with everything from Niyama Hot Yoga to a Stone & Crystal Facial.
Spice up your Thanksgiving sides! Red Light Chef Jackie Shen adds Asian flavor to our Turkey Day faves...
Cranberry Sauce with Pomegranate Paste
Ingredients:
1 bag of cranberries
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of pomegranate juice
1 tablespoon of pomegranate paste
Directions:
Put all ingredients into a pot and bring to a boil. Simmer until the cranberries pop and thicken.
Week 4: Minnie Riperton "Lovin' You"
Chances are you weren't a Minnie Riperton fan when this song hit the airwaves in 1975. BUT, thanks to Burger King and Visa commercials... Lovin' You is now destined to test your sanity. Someone hit 'repeat' on the turntables in your head!
Happy National Baklavah Day! You know I love the sweet, flaky pastry as much as any gal... but does it really deserve a whole day? What's next??? How about moment of silence for the return of the McRib? Alright, I'm done griping. Thought I'd take this curious holiday to share my favorite Greek spots...
Athenian Room (Lincoln Park)
This corner eatery's been around for more than 30 years. So tasty, so cheap.
Athena Restaurant (Greektown)
Great food, but scores major points come summertime with one of the best patios around town.
Papaspiros (Oak Park)
Take the trip to this suburban spot as much for the eats as the owners Spiro and Sofia.
It's official... President Bush has checked out. The Arizona State University Men's and Women's Track Team stopped by the White House for a photo op... and somehow convinced the lame duck Commander-In-Chief to throw up the "shocker." No joke. The pic is from the official presidential website.
Don't know what the gesture means??? Google it.
Every one raise your glass... Goose Island's doors are staying open! After 20 glorious years on Clybourn, the original home of the brewpub was set to close in the very near future (cause rent ain't cheap!). BUT, owner John Hall was able to work something out with the landlord (free beer for life?) and was so excited about stayling alive that he bought everyone in the bar a round!
Read full article.
Week 3: Wilson Phillips "Hold On"
It's back from 1990 to torment you! As much as we loved Carnie Wilson as a tabloid talk show host (and on Celebrity Fit Club), her most glistening accomplishment has to be this fantastically irritating song. I mean, really... try to stop humming it (off-key). I dare you!
Let me preface this with - yes, I too am addicted to a $4 cup of coffee. It's a habit that's more expensive than smoking, but apparently... easier to quit. Starbucks just released earnings for fourth quarter and it ain't pretty. The king of frappucinos netted a loss of 97%.
Somehow it's comforting that we're not a nation of crazy people eager to drown our recession-straped wallets in liquid cocaine. On the other hand, if the mega-chain has to cut back (or the unthinkable, tanks) how will I survive without my grande soy latte???
Wedged between the warehouses and meatpacking plants on Fulton Market are these hidden gems...
Jupiter Outpost
1139 W. Fulton Market
Pivot Boutique
1101 W. Fulton Market
Carnivale
702 W. Fulton Market
Otom
951 W. Fulton Market
The Publican
845 W. Fulton Market
Lumen
839 W. Fulton Market
If the first "Don't Vote" video didn't drive the point home, a buttload of celebs (and Steven Spielberg) want you to go out an make your voice heard!
Hope this clip inspires you to scare the living bejesus out of a loved one. Nothing says I care like sitting in a garbage can all day just to see someone wet themselves.
Wanna taste the forbidden flavors from Cuba?
90 Miles Cuban Cafe
3101 N. Clybourn Avenue
Cafe con Leche Bucktown
1732 N. Milwaukee Avenue
Happy Halloween from the Drunkins!!! A few people sent me this (including my Mom, strange). It made me laugh so I thought I'd pass it along.
We're number one! We're number one! Okay, well some of us are number one. Mainly chef Laurent Gras of L20, which Esquire Magazine just named Restaurant of the Year. I have yet to treat myself to the upscale seafood at the fine dining restaurant inside the Belden-Stratford, where a four-course prix-fixe menu will set you back $110! But, one of my favorite newbies also made the esteemed list. Congrats are in order to the folks at Mercat A La Planxa, as well as Takashi Yagihasi for this namesake spot in Bucktown.
Indulge in some seasonal apply delights...
~The (Ginormous) Apple Pancake
Walker Bros Pancake House
~Apple Cider-Glazed Sweetbreads
Graham Elliot
~Warm Apple Pie Cocktail
Silver Cloud
~Hot Apple Fritters
Dorado
Jackie sat down with the stars of Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist - Michael Cera and Kat Dennings.
Leonardo DiCaprio rounded up an insane amount of celebs to remind you to (not) vote! You've got Dustin Hoffman, Natalie Portman, Adam Levin, Eva Longoria, Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox-Arquette, Ellen Degeneres, Forest Whitaker and the list goes on...
They told me to pass it on to five friends... and I oblige. Register here!
It was only a matter of time before someone made the connection between Juno (teen pregnany movie) and Juneau (capital of Alaska, where Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin hails from). No longer is Obama the "celebrity" candidate!
Check out another "Jewno" parody after the jump...
Come one, come all... and watch as I make a fool of myself!
Comedian/Hypnotist Flip Orley is bringing his show to Chicagoland for the weekend at Schaumburg's 'The Improv,' and yours truly will be onstage Thursday night for all the laughs (with me, not at me).
Get tix here...
Gas prices are still on the rise. Ugh. Even though you're pinching pennies you can still look like a million bucks! Here are our picks for fab finds on a budget...
Designer Shoe Outlet
301 W. Central (Mount Prospect)
Knee Deep Vintage
1425 W. 18th (Pilsen)
Beta Boutique
2016 W. Concord (Wicker Park)
Crossroads Trading Company
Locations in Lincoln Park, Wicker Park and Evanston
Take your own tour of Norwood Park...
Kouks Vintage Cafe
5653 N Northwest Hwy
Gigi's Dolls & Sherry's Teddy Bears
6029 N Northwest Hwy
American Science & Surplus
5316 N. Milwaukee Ave
Rusty Armadillo
6154 N. Milwaukee Ave
Superdawg Drive-In
6363 N. Milwaukee Ave
Who's the most popular guy at Lolla? It's not Zack or Kanye. It's the guy giving away ice cream. Jackie tracked him down and got his story... and maybe a Bomb Pop.
Jackie has a little fun backstage with the Chicago-based band, The Office.
Check them out on stage doing what they do best.
Have you seen the new Radiohead music video for "House of Cards?" Kinda trippy. It's a video made without a video camera or video tape. Sounds intriguing, right? Truth... I was bored after the first few seconds. BUT the 'making of' is awesome, if you're a techie geek like me!
For the video, keep on reading.
If you like electro-pop, dancing and awkward superfan Mel from Flight of the Conchords... you're gonna want to click here. It's the latest music video from the Chicago-based trio Pretty Good Dance Moves, edited by yours truly :)
The band's new self-titled EP comes out tomorrow! So turn it up and get your "Demons Dancing"...
A friend of mine got me hooked on failblog.org. Now I'm not usually one to laugh (hard) at the misery of others, but this shiz is funny!
WARNING: The site is addictive... click at your own risk.
If our sugar shock story left you drooling, here are the spots we sunk our sweet tooth into!
Twisted Sister Bakery
1543 N. Wells (Old Town)
Let Them Eat Chocolate!
5306 N. Damen (Bowmanville)
Berry Chill
635 N. State (River North)
Red Mango
111 W. Jackson Ave (Naperville)
Starfruit Cafe
1745 W. Division (Wicker Park)
From Josh to Joss... it's been a whirlwind celebrity week! If you were able to tear yourself away from the pierogi stand at The Taste of Chicago last night, you might have seen me. I was lucky enough to introduce Grammy award-winning singer Joss Stone to thousands of fans at the Petrillo Music Shell. Ryan Shaw opened for the 21-year-old songstress, and both of them blew me away with their soulful vocals! But the best part about being the night's emcee? Got to sneak a few up-close-and-personal pics from the stage wings. Keep reading to check 'em out...
My family was in town from Florida for a fantastically touristy weekend! Ravinia, Pride and of course, the Taste of Chicago. Now, I've always been a turkey leg and sweet corn kinda gal, but seeing "The Taste" through fresh eyes brought two new delights to my attention. Mom and Dad are apparently big fans of the deep fryer... cause our pics for '08 were none other than Harry Caray's infamous homemade potato chips (with hot sauce) and the indulgent sugar-coated beignets at Creole Cajun spot Lagniappe. Delish!
If you wanna "taste" for yourself... it runs through Sunday, July 6th at Grant Park. Eat up, buttercup!
Wanna see the neighborhood for yourself...
Kuma's Corner
2900 W. Belmont
Hot Doug's
3324 N. California
Bulldog Bakery
3207 N. Elston
The Galaxie
2603 W. Barry
The Orbit Room
2959 N. California
Whatever you call it... learn how to play! Here are the fantastic folks who taught me...
Midwest Disc Golf
PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association)
We were on the Red Carpet for the grand opening of Angels & Kings, Pete Wentz's new rock n' roll bar in River North. But it also happened to be the Fallout Boy bassist's 29th birthday party. Wifey Ashlee Simpson was there to celebrate and give Pete a video b-day card from his friends and family. While we weren't allowed to let the cameras roll inside, here's a few snapshots from the festivities...
Watch our interview with Pete tomorrow night on the show!
Wanna dive into summer fork first? Check it...
Zed 451 (River North)
739 N. Clark
Moody's Pub (Edgewater)
5910 N. Broadway
Athena Greek Restaurant (Greektown)
212 S. Halsted
Chaise Lounge (Wicker Park)
1840 W. North
The Parrot Cage (South Shore)
7059 S. South Shore
Wanna frolic in the ocean like Sandy and Danny? Find your T-Bird or Pink Lady at Summer Lovin' 2008. Tomorrow's super hot singles soiree presents Chicago Magazine's 20 most eligible guys and gals. Oh ya, and I'll be there hosting the romantical event...
For tix, click here...
Is Coldplay running out of mojo? According to the Creaky Boards, that's a big fat yes! This little-known band says Chris Martin and company's new single "Viva La Vida" (the one from iTunes commercial) is just a bit too similar to their song, ironically titled "The Songs I Didn't Write." So, they poke a little lighthearted fun... check it out! Thoughts?
If you like something you saw on our Cub-free Tour de Wrigley, here's all the info for the places we hit...
Yesterday
1143 W. Addison
(773) 248-8087
Hubba Hubba
3309 N. Clark
(773) 477-1414
www.hubbahubbachicago.com
Pick Me Up Cafe
3408 N. Clark
(773) 248-6613
Stage Left Theatre
3408 N. Sheffield
(773) 883-8830
www.stagelefttheatre.com
Wanna make this Mexican snack at home?
Ingredients
Masa Dough... 3lbs
Chicken Broth... 1 1/2cups
Salt... 3tbs
Mix masa, broth and salt for five minutes into a sour cream consistency. Drop a 1/4 cup of dough onto a 6x6in banana leaf. Thin it out with spoon. Add your favorite mix of meat and salsa (about 2tbs of each). Wrap sides of banana leaf, then top and bottom. Pat a few times to spread out ingredients. Place tamales in steamer pot. Bring water to a boil, then let it simmer. Usually takes about an hour to cook... let your nose be the timer! Unwrap carefully (VERY hot), garnish and enjoy...
Makes about 25 tamales.
For more on Tamalli, head to metromix.com!
Wanna whip up market fresh eats like Chef Martial Noguier of one sixtyblue?
If you wanna check 'em out for yourself...
Dr. Wax
5226 S. Harper Avenue
(773) 493-8696
Hyde Park Art Center
5020 S. Cornell Avenue
(773) 324-5520
Promontory Point
5491 South Shore Drive
(312) 747-6620
Hyde Park Hair Salon and Barber Shop
5234 S. Blackstone Avenue
(773) 493-6028
Harper Court
5211 S. Harper Avenue
(773) 363-8282
Medici on 57th
1327 E. 57th Street
(773) 667-7394
And if you wanna listen to our most favorite tour guide Laurence Holmes from 670 The Score, check him out on Myspace!
After nearly four years, 1,500 performances and lots of green face paint... the cast of Wicked will take its final bow. The lights go out on this record-breaking production January 25th, 2009 and go down as the longest-running Broadway musical in Chicago history. The good news? You can still get tix!
RIP Glinda and Elphaba...
Help beautify the city one tulip at a time! Find out more about your local Community Garden at the Chicago Park District... ya dig?
Strawberries & Cream Parfait
Soak cashews and almonds in separate jars of water for 3-5 hours. Strain.
Blend the following:
2 cups cashews
2 cups almonds
4 cups water
½ cup agave nectar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Pinch salt
Refrigerate mixture so it thickens.
To build parfait:
Start with a layer of ground flax, add sliced strawberries and a layer of cream. Alternate flax, strawberries and cream. Garnish with blueberries and mint leaf.
As summer slowly sets in, here are some of my picks for fun in the sun...
KAYAKING
Kayak Chicago
Check out the rest after the jump!
If you want to shake your tush to any of the spots you saw on our "Best Of" Workouts...
Beach Yoga
YogaNow offers al fresco classes every Monday starting June 2nd. So next time you downward dog, do it in the sand!
Kangoo
Bounce your way to a better body at Crunch Gym with Kangoo. It's the exercise that has everyone jumping...
CrossFit
Push yourself to the max with CrossFit. Download daily routines for FREE or visit Windy City CrossFit for face-to-face motivation.
The Actors Gymnasium
Don't let the funny noses fool you... the circus arts are a serious workout. The Actors Gymnasium in Evanston has workshops for all ages and levels.
Dance Dance Party Party
Dance like no one's watching every Wednesday and Sunday at Dance Dance Party Party. Sorry gents, it's ladies ONLY!
So it's almost warm and I'm sure a lot of you will be hopping on your bikes shortly. With that in mind, thought you should take a ganders at this...
Happy Monday!
If something at Shop CHICago caught your eye, here are links to the designers we featured...
NAZLY VILLAMIZAR (Miami)
Funky, colorful, geometric handbags...
www.nazlyv.com
LARA MILLER (Chicago)
Versatile, eco-friendly fashion...
www.laramiller.net
NATALIA VILLAFANA (Trinidad)
Comfortable, colorful style from the Islands...
www.nataliavillafana.com
DOLLYBIRD (Chicago)
Jewelry made from all-natural elements...
www.dollybirddesign.com
What's old is new at Swap-O-Rama!
This nationwide clothing exchange is coming to Chicago this Saturday at the AV-aerie (2000 W. Fulton, #310). A bag of old duds and $20 gets you in the door... and the rest is up to your DIY magic. Pull from piles of rags and make them into your riches. Stations are set up to help you mend and fit your new threads into a one-of-a-kind (and recycled!) look. So start digging through your closet...
The Cubs home opener is just one week away and we wanted to let everyone know Metromix plans to be a part of the action!
Stop by Casey Moran's before the game on March 31st, and meet our very own Jackie Tranchida. We're making her work.
She'll be out saying hi to fans, giving away Festa T-Shirts ,and more. Doors open at 7am with a beer & brunch buffet for $15! See you there!
Breakdance Chicago is giving you the chance to bust a move! We've got two free passes for a full six-week session. If you want your shot at becoming a B-boy or B-girl, send us an email with your name and number. Deadline for submissions is Sunday at midnight...
Amy Winehouse took time out from self-destruction to do a little good. My former girl crush posed mostly nude for the UK's "Easy Living" Magazine in an effort to raise breast cancer awareness. Five buck says we'll see guitar knickers and duck tape tops coming down the runway shortly!
This one's for all of you in the hurt box today. The "metromix" crew feels your pain :( We hopped on the CLTV float for the 53 Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade... which meant beads, funny hats and face tattoos (and later on, Guinness!). Hope you all had as much fun as we did... watch TONIGHT for a recap!
Now go find the folks in your office who aren't wearing green and pinch them! Go, now...
Hi all! I was lucky enough to crash Josh Kelley's CD release party at Rockit, and here's just a snippet of him performing "Tidal Wave". His new album came out February 5th. It's called Special Company and that "special" someone is none other than wifey Katherine Heigl. This guy is wicked talented and fantastic live... did you know he plays 14 instruments? You can check him out for yourself on February 21st when he's back in Chicago for a show at The Metro.
... with the sound of godawful music. "The Hills" star Heidi Montag released the video for her debut single, Higher. It's directed by pseudo-fiance Spencer Pratt... so as expected, it's pretty blah. Since I'll never get those three minutes of my life back (yes, I watched it all the way through), I thought I'd put you through the same amusing agony... enjoy!
Yes, boys and girls... the New Kids On The Block are rumored to be reuniting. But do we likey the idea? Five teenagers "Hangin' Tough" is adorable. Five men approaching mid-life crooning about "The Right Stuff" is just plain creepy. It's like mixing cheeseballs and chocolate... it sounds like a really great idea, but the outcome would likely be subpar.
On the bright side, I've been looking for an excuse to use my heart-shaped Joey McIntyre pillow. Who was your favorite New Kid?
Hi all... it's Jackie here. You may or may not know, but I just got back from a trip to Israel. And I never come home empty handed! Mom and Dad got the usual touristy knick-knacks... and the roomies were gifted some last minute finds from Duty Free. But for you all, I brought back my most favorite discovery... Israeli songstress Yael Naim. She was born in France, but raised in Israel... and she sings in both English and Hebrew (and I think French, but I can't really tell). She just released a self-titled album, and her single "New Soul" has been in my head for nearly a month now.
You're welcome, and enjoy!
P.S. Fun fact for ya... "New Soul" just happens to be backing up the new ads for the Macbook Air. But if anyone asks, you heard it here first!
American Gladiators came back in fantastic form last night... all of the cheese and glory I remember from my youth. As an avid watcher in the 90s there was a lot to live up to and Gladiators '08 did not disappoint. Powerball, assualt, the eliminator and then some... plus the delightful addition of water.
More AG ramblings after the jump...
Of course, this Florida gal would be talking about winter. On one hand... there's the caroling, snow-covered sidewalks, mistletoe (wink, wink) and general citywide glee. And to be fair, a palm tree wrapped in twinkling lights is just wrong. On the other... you've got car scrapers, frost-bitten cheeks, a whopper of a heating bill and toes that will seemingly never thaw.
The hoildays are joyous, no doubt. But come the New Year, what's the point of winter? Please help me see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm looking for that bar, that toasty drink or that cozy cafe that helps you make it through the months of miserable weather...
Hi, it's Jax here! Now it's too cold for a picnic... but why not bring the fun indoors? Grab a blanket, a basket and a bottle of wine... cause we're throwing a carpet feast!
Check out Pastoral Artisan's favorite fondue recipe after the jump...
Hello... it's Jackie here! So the folks at the French Pastry School are helping to make you the hit of any holiday party with a homemade Chocolate Lava Cake. I jumped in the kitchen with Master Pastry Chef Jacquy Pfeiffer and got my hands dirty. Trust me... if I can do it, so can you!
Check out the recipe after the jump...
Congratulations to our very own Jackie Tranchida! She won an Emmy for Outstanding On-Air Achievement on Metromix TV! The awards were hosted by Jeff Garlin of HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm. It's Jackie's first nomination and first win.
If you have ideas on what our Emmy award winning reporter should cover on upcoming shows, let us know!
We had a new addition to my family yesterday... the adorable five pound ball of fur you see above. She's a Cavachon, and her name is Dulce. The puppy lives at home in Florida with my parents, who now refer to her as my sister. Here's where I get salty... this now makes me a middle child. Dulce, Dulce, Dulce! She's getting all the attention and new chew toys, and I'm left to fend for myself. More importantly, for the last 24 years I was told my Mom was allergic to dogs!!! Sneaky, sneaky.
So here's where you come in. My 'rents have assigned me the glorious task of giving the pup a middle name and I got nothin'. The only thing that comes to mind is 'de Leche' cause that's my favorite ice cream flavor. Any and all suggestions are welcome...
So you may have read my recent gushings about super-cutie Vince Vaughn... so down-to earth, so funny and oh so tall. Well, my interview with him was magical to say the least. I got a hug! Thought you might want to check it out...
Video is after the jump...
Continue reading "Vince and Jax... Merry Christmas to Me!!!" »
So maybe "love" is a stretch... but a girl can dream, right? Chicago's own Vince Vaughn was on the red carpet last night for the premiere of his new holiday flick "Fred Claus", and I was right there with him!!! I was drooling. But you'll have to watch tonight to see all the "magic" happen...
He is, pehaps, my favorite Chicago celeb... and yours? Are you a Cusack fan? Or are you on Team Piven? Maybe Jenny McCarthy? The list goes on... Post a comment and let us know who makes you all warm and tingly inside!
Hi all, it’s Jackie here. Welcome to this momentous occasion… as this is my very first blog. To be completely honest, I wasn’t exactly sure what a blog was until about a week ago, so bear with me.... my brother got all of the tech savvy genes.
I would like to dedicate my inaugural blog to my friend Graham who inspired this post. About a week ago we were at InnJoy for some late night grub, and I was whining about how I have nothing to say on this very blog. He’s all about the blogging and said it’s as easy as writing about what you see. As if by divine intervention, at that very moment a guy wearing a blue jean jacket with a Tweety Bird patch on the back grabbed the karaoke mic for his rendition of some awful 80s hit. Don’t even get me started on the jacket, let’s just focus on the beautiful music that was being made. I realized we haven’t done a karaoke story on this show since we featured the ever popular Carole’s Pub almost two years ago… and that’s too long to go without a little Debbie Gibson. So, tell me your favorite karaoke bars. Please. Or my next post might have to be about Road Runner iron-ons.
