Hungry Z, GrandOverview.com

The definition of a champion is: One that is clearly superior or has the attributes of a winner. When it comes to huge burgers, “Wiener and Still Champion” is making a serious title bid. Located just one block west of Chicago Ave, on Dempster in Evanston, “Wiener and Still Champion” is a little hole in the wall most people don’t even know exists. The small storefront restaurant is easy to miss amongst all the tall trees that block their quirky sign.

Step inside and you might wonder if you made the right decision to eat there. The place isn’t pretty by any means, but walking out would be a mistake. Don’t be bothered by the fact that there’s only six tables, neither TV gets reception, or that they have to pry the register open with a butter knife, we’ve all been to places that look the part, but can’t deliver. If you’re a fan of burgers, then this place certainly delivers. Read more »

Hungry Z, GrandOverview.com

Ask any chef and they’ll tell you, fresher is better. The simplest dish can be transformed into a taste extravaganza if the right ingredients are used. The closer an ingredient is grown/harvested, the fresher the flavor. Glen Ellyn’s “Glen Prairie” is taking this concept and running with it. In fact every dish is served up with ingredients coming from the Midwest.

With such a focus on local ingredients a must try is the cheese board. Served with crostini and cranberry relish, this daily selection awakens your senses. The true standout though, are the buttermilk fried, herb cheese stuffed mushrooms. Topped with bacon and Chile sauce, these morsels sit on a pool of horseradish and simply burst in your mouth with flavor!

Continuing with the local theme is the light and flaky, chervil and panko crusted Wisconsin northern pike. Alongside is their amazing mac and cheese that’s crafted with same local cheeses served earlier, and topped with a crisp cracker crust. If fish isn’t your thing, the Dakota farmed bison rib eye will satisfy the meat eater in all of us. Bursting with flavor and not the least bit “gamey”, this juicy piece of meat is not to be missed. Read more »

Hungry Z, GrandOverview.com

A monk is a man that’s part of a brotherhood, living in a monastery, and devoted to a discipline prescribed by his order. What most people don’t realize is that Trappist monks are accomplished brew masters. So while most of us thought monks chanted all day, the folks at The Lucky Monk drew inspiration from these age old brew masters to craft their own line of specialty beers. Since man cannot live on beer alone Read more »