2010 has been a mixed year for Chicago restaurants. Despite some notable openings, the recession continues to take its toll as restaurants have fewer dining dollars to compete for. Metromix has put together a gallery of many of the restaurants that have closed in 2010, and it brought a tear to our eyes. So naturally, we decided to share it with our readers - either out of a sense of nostalgia or of sadism. more ›

Amidst the storms and Blago and whatever else is going on about town, you may have noticed the U.S. Men's National Team is making a nice run at the World Cup. It hasn't been easy but after yesterday's dramatic 1-0 victory over Algeria, Team USA own their group for the first time ever (not counting 1930 when they won in a three-team group) and is through to the knock-out round. Waiting for them on Saturday is Ghana, the nation that stymied the Americans in Germany four years ago and prevented the USA from advancing then. The USA had their lapses and missed opportunities throughout the Group Stage, but they've lined themselves up as good a draw as they could hope for, slated to face the winner of South Korea-Uruguay in the quarterfinals should they win Saturday. more ›

It's Memorial Day weekend which marks the unofficial start of summer - and the weather is cooperating. Our pals at Gapers Block were kind enough to point out that both The Reader and NewCity have their summertime issues up for your perusal of what to do this summer. And don't forget Metromix Chicago's fest guide to plan each weekend neighborhood exploration this year. You know, besides just Lollapalooza. Check back later when Carrie has a few more great grilling suggestions for your weekend and let us know if there are other great local summer guides we missed. more ›

If you've ever looked for info on the bar you're going to on any given Friday night, you've most likely run into Sean Parnell's site, the Chicago Bar Project. Started in 2000 and now listing hundreds of bars (including dozens that are no longer in existence), the Bar Project has changed from a simple list of nightspots into a comprehensive guide to almost all alcoholic destinations throughout the city. more ›

Musical contests that rely on public voting are suspicious at best when it comes to actually discovering or rewarding talent. When the voting takes place online, though, we have a hard time taking any of the results seriously. more ›