Leading the charge, unsurprisingly, is Alinea, with an average check total of $736. that places Grant Achatz's restaurant at fourth on the list. more ›

Last week, former Avenues chef Curtis Duffy caused significant waves among Chicago's food media by... announcing the name of his upcoming restaurant. Grace, Duffy says, will be a fuller realization of the "microseasonal" cooking philosophy that won him acclaim and Michelin stars at Avenues. more ›

The folks at El Ideas show a sense of humor about mortality in the restaurant industry. more ›

Cibo Matto will close soon, Kin Sushi and Thai is open after its roof collapse, and Longman & Eagle is throwing a pig roast on Sunday. more ›

- Yet another long-time Lettuce Entertain You property is being shuttered, only to be taken over by the Melman sons. The Tribune reported yesterday that there are absolutely no details available about the new space, other than the ownership. If you love Ben Pao, go soon, as it closes September 10th. We'll bet that the new place will have something on tap that doesn't need to be on tap (wine? cocktails? who knows!) and probably an un-necessarily huge, eclectic menu - but nevertheless, will be a hit. more ›

Are you looking for a classic, upscale New Year's Eve party? Is your tuxedo gathering dust in the back of your closet? Look no further - the Peninsula hotel has got you covered. Whether you want to be in the midst of the music and the lights or you want a quiet intimate dinner for you and your sweetie, if you happen to have a spare $300 or so this is the New Year's party for you. more ›

Some chef news for you: Monday both Chicago Mag's Dish and TOC broke the news that Avenues' Graham Elliot Bowles will be leaving the AAA five-diamond award winning restaurant in April to open a new restaurant in the former Harvest on Huron space (217 W. Huron). more ›