The Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau has enlisted Stephanie Izard to host its inaugural "First Bites" bash at the Great Hall of Union Station. more ›

At this time of the year, we get discount fatigue. Between Groupon, LivingSocial and all the rest, and Chicago Restaurant Week deals, it's hard to get us excited. Plus, as we're sure many of you have noticed, the same restaurants tend to show up again and again on these lists of deals and discounts. That is why, when Chicago Chef Week (March 20-26) first appeared on our radar screen, with exactly the same pricing as Chicago Restaurant Week, we yawned and moved on. Until we payed closer attention to the list, and noticed some spots that rarely offer discounts or special meals. The real story of Chicago Chef Week is not that it is yet another restaurant discount, but that it is a chance for you to dine at some new spots for only a little bit of dough. more ›

Earlier this week, Chicago Restaurant Week 2011 announced Feb. 18-27. Which is actually ten days, but never mind. Anyway, the third edition of the very successful program doesn't veer from the script at all. Participating restaurants will offer three-course, fixed price lunches for $22; or three-course, fixed price dinners for anywhere from $33 to $44. more ›

(Ed. Note: Now in its third year, Chicago Restaurant Week starts Friday and runs through February 28. Over 160 restaurants throughout the greater Chicago area will offer 3-course fixed price dinners for $32 and 3-course, fixed price lunches for $22. Last year we offered suggestions for restaurants to visit during Restaurant Week. We're doing the same this week, starting with selections from Megan Tempest. — C. Sudo) more ›

Anthony laid out some of the great reasons to try a restaurant during Chicago Restaurant Week and I have to echo them here. It's a great opportunity to try some places on which you might not otherwise risk your hard earned cash (or credit). 3 course meals - $22 for lunch, $32 for dinner. Be sure to check out the actual menu items being offered. You can see the restaurant week menu by: 1) clicking here, then 2) choose the restaurant you're considering and 3) click on the Restaurant Week Menu button - You can also make your reservations on this page (after step 2). more ›

Chuck asked that each of the food and drink staffers offer readers recommendations of places to visit during Chicago Restaurant Week, which kicks off today. Here are my picks: more ›