Neighborhood Tourist Spring 2021

DAYTRIPPERS GUIDE TO FUN IN NORTHERN ILLINOIS

neighborhood

TOURIST SPRING 2021

What florists are noticing about wedding bouquets PAGE 14

destination weddings e m o h o t e s Clo

No flights needed to say “I do” at this waterfront venue | PAGE 7

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WELCOME TO AN EVEN BIGGER, BETTER NETWORK

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Spring at last!

I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to come out of winter hibernation.

I’m itching to get out from under all these blankets and into the sunshine!

My mom always notes the arrival of spring when crocuses poke through the thawed ground. What marks springtime for you?

Last year, I signed up to be a volunteer at a community garden…and, as I’m sure you can guess, the pandemic got in the way. Now that I’m settled, I’m ready to have my own garden plot; the idea of homegrown tomatoes, basil, beets and sugar snap peas has gotten me through negative temperatures and day after day of snow. By the time you read this, I’ll be planning where and when to get my starter plants and flower seeds. If you’re in the same boat, head to P. 26, where we have some gardening tips for early spring.

Our spring issue of Neighborhood Tourist also features a handful of stories centered around weddings: cakes, florists, venues, you name it. I’ll be a bridesmaid in an October wedding, and reading these stories made me even more excited for that. A cake designed to look like an enormous

cinnamon roll? Custom bouquets and greenery? It all sounds like fun. The wedding section starts on P. 7; even if you’ve already said “I do,” these stories together make a beautiful testimony to creative problem-solving and reminder of newlyweds’ love for each other.

Lastly, as tourists in our own backyards, we rounded up nine delicious, longstanding pizza options (P. 34).

The homemade version is delicious in its own way — I’m partial to barbecue chicken pizza — but there’s nothing like trying someone else’s take on the classic. I’ve been hoping to visit Angelo’s Pizzeria ever since I read about its spaghetti pizza. Maybe I’ll see you there?

STAFF LAURA SHAW Publisher Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group

ALLISON LAPORTA Designer

As always, thanks for reading!

JACLYN CORNELL Local Sales Manager Niche Products Hannah Hoffmeister Editor hhoffmeister@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER

Chris and Jamie Andrekopoulos married in June 2015 at Illinois Beach Hotel. For more about this stunning venue, turn to P. 7. Photo by Coach House Pictures.

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Additional copies of Neighborhood Tourist are available for $6.99 each.

Email your order to TOURIST@shawmedia.com

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS ¢ ALLISON BILLS (HORNE) is a

freelance writer and social media/ marketing professional who currently resides in Telluride, Colorado.

Originally from Downers Grove, Allison attended Millikin University for undergrad (where she is now in the Hall of Fame for her soccer career) before getting her MA in Journalism from DePaul. When she's not working, you can find her exploring in the mountains with her three (yes, three) dogs with her husband, rooting on her beloved Blackhawks and White Sox, or planning her next trip.

¢ JONATHAN BILYK has dedicated his career to finding and telling the stories of those around him in ways that not only inform, but entertain — and, as the case NOVEMBER be, drive people to act. Working as a journalist for more than two decades, Jon has won numerous awards recognizing editorial excellence in business and finance reporting, science and technology reporting, news reporting, column writing and even an award for best sports story.

¢ KEVIN DRULEY is a St. Louis

transplant who lives in the western suburbs with his wife, Shannon.

What Chicagoans call “pop,” he calls “soda,” although it’s really rather moot since he gave up such carbonated beverages for Lent in 1999. Kevin enjoys day tripping, reading, moviegoing and playing pickup sports.

He recently encountered recreational pickleball and is over the moon.

¢ VICKI MARTINKA PETERSEN

loves playing tourist right here in the Chicago area. Vicki juggles being a mom with her full-time job as a digital copywriter for a regional hospital system and her side hustle as a freelance writer for local niche publications. When she’s not negotiating with her son to go to bed, Vicki can be found meditating, practicing yoga, cooking and reading.

She also volunteers at her son’s school and serves on the board of the AAUW Aurora Area Branch and Moms & More of Oswego.

¢ MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE

loves sharing stories and taking time to spotlight the amazing things people are doing in the community.

These stories are an inspiration and a reminder of all the good in our world. As a busy mom to three boys, she loves being able to escape into the stories she writes and all of the wonderful people she meets along the way. Melissa and her husband enjoy exploring new places and trying new foods with their three young sons. From delicate sushi rolls to tacos in fresh tortillas there are so many new destinations throughout the state to explore.

¢ RYAN SEARL is the Shaw Media

Brand Manager for properties like Starved Rock Country and The First Hundred Miles. Using his passion for travel writing and tourism, he’s helped to establish the web presence of these up-and-coming destinations with fun daily articles, weekly radio spots and frequent newsletter giveaways.

Previously he worked for the Ottawa Visitors Center, where he received several Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism awards for directing and editing regional television spots. When he’s not writing, you can usually find him scouring used record bins, visiting a movie theater or planning a trip to some roadside attraction.

¢ DIANE KRIEGER SPIVAK is

a lifer as far as writing goes. An award-winning journalist, she’s cranked out literally thousands of articles for newspapers, magazines, universities, and the Web. There’s always something new around the next corner, in her opinion, and sharing that stuff with readers is what makes her giddy. From her first-hand experience taking off at 500 mph with the U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds to her interview with the Archdiocese of Chicago’s exorcist, to learning the finer points of finger painting from a 5-year-old, there’s pretty much no subject she’s not excited about tackling. She also likes anything vintage, off-the-wall, and an expertly crafted ginger beer.

¢ KELLEY WHITE is a stay-at-home

mother of four in Washington, where her Active-Duty husband is stationed.

Growing up in Shorewood, Kelley went on to attend Drake University and has a passion for writing. She’s been able to travel across the United States since, reads about three books a week and loves getting the chance to write about the place she grew up in and loves so much.

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WHAT'S INSIDE

 WEDDINGS 7 DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD Tie the knot at a waterfall, historical site or beach, all without traveling outside Illinois 10 THIS TAKES THE CAKE Pandemic-induced changes have paved the way for smaller, custom wedding desserts 14 IN BLOOM Florists notice two shifts in recent wedding floral arrangements: the pandemic … and Pinterest

 WHERE WE LIVE 18 HISTORIC HOTELS Getting ready to travel again?

Here are some local lodgings options

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22 WELCOME TO STARVED ROCK COUNTRY If you haven’t yet, discover this growing Midwest travel destination this spring or summer 24 ‘WHAT CATCHES YOUR EYE?’ Geneva Design House by Strawflower offers rugs, custom floral arrangements and more 26 FROM THE GROUND UP The arrival of spring marks the beginning of gardening season

 SPORTS & RECREATION 28 PICKLEBALL: MORE THAN JUST A SILLY NAME No pickles were eaten in the making of this rapidly growing sport

 DESTINATION DINING 32 RUBI AGAVE Latin American cuisine and fun-loving atmosphere come together at this Homer Glen restaurant 34 PLETHORA OF PIZZA It’s easy as pie — pizza pie, that is — to find tasty slices in the Neighborhood Tourist region 36 ‘SEASONALITY AND LOTS OF CREATIVITY’ Mandrake’s organic small plates and wines elevate the Kendall County food scene

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DESTINATION WEDDINGS in your own

backyard

TIE THE KNOT AT A HISTORICAL SITE, WATERFALL OR BEACH, ALL WITHOUT TRAVELING OUTSIDE ILLINOIS

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Photos provided by Ben Ramos, Coach House Pictures, Photography by Jami, Pine Creek and The National Trust for Historic Preservation

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f you’re dreaming of a wedding on the beach, inviting guests to a creative location or saying “I do” in an enchanted forest, you’re in luck. You won’t need passports or plane tickets for these three picturesque locations.

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HISTORICAL SITE Jennifer Downing has learned how to say hello in quite a few languages as she welcomes guests from all over the world to the Farnsworth House in Plano, located on more than 60 acres of woodlands along the Fox River.

The historic property draws visitors to see the house’s unusual architectural features, designed in the international style by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe for Dr. Edith Farnsworth, a physician and researcher. Completed in 1951, the home is now part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Last year, a couple that had visited as part of a college trip returned to the location to say their wedding vows on the house’s terrace, says Downing, marketing and events coordinator. The Farnsworth House is best suited for small wedding ceremonies of around 40 people or less. Couples can have a tent on the grounds for the reception and let the home’s beautiful lines serve as the dramatic background.

“It’s incredible for photos and it’s so nice to see how each couple interprets the space,” Downing says. “I think people are being more creative.”

Weddings

A docent is assigned to each event, a feature that allows guests to enjoy guided tours of the house during the reception. “You can have cocktails on the terrace and tour the house or ask the docent questions,” Downing adds.

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Since the location is first and foremost a living museum, hosting a wedding or other special event requires providing your own amenities, from tables and chairs to catering and staff. Downing can assist in event planning and local vendor information.

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SURROUNDED BY NATURE When couples choose a wedding at Pine Creek in Oregon, Illinois, each of its six outdoor wedding venues offers a different way to embrace the area’s natural beauty. There is a dramatic waterfall, a gazebo and rock wall canyon where couples can gather, or they may choose to stand under a canopy of tall trees shaded by the leaves in the enchanted forest. Saving on decorations may mean there’s enough to splurge for the horse-drawn carriage.

“We don’t need to follow trends because we have the natural outdoor setting,” says owner Rebecca Jones.

Jones started working at the location, then known as White Pines, when she was 13. In 2019 she purchased a portion of the property, which at the time was limited to simple wedding ceremonies and photography sessions.

She was barely into her first full year at the helm when COVID-19 upturned the wedding business. With 5 acres, Jones decided to get creative to help couples continue to have their dream weddings, even if they had to be smaller than originally planned.

“With the smaller weddings there is an intimacy and romance that wouldn’t have been duplicated in a larger wedding,” Jones says. “As crazy as everything has been, love is truly not canceled.”

The location can host wedding ceremonies as well as some microwedding receptions with a tent in the grand pavilion. Jones also created an elopement package, which offers basic wedding features at a more scaleddown price point for couples with fewer guests. She says some couples have embraced the small wedding parties and created a weekend of the event, with nearby lodging for guests and state parks to spend days hiking or kayaking the nearby Rock River.

The open space and setting has more couples from the suburbs choosing the location. Jones also provides a list of recommended vendors to help couples find local photographers, caterers and even ministers.

BEACH TIME So often a destination wedding conjures images of a couple with their feet in the sand. To find that in Illinois, check out Illinois Beach Hotel in Zion, where couples can choose to say their vows next to Lake Michigan or in the beautiful banquet room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water. The wedding space offers more than 3,000 square feet for you and your guests to enjoy.

The full-service hotel also offers a convenient place for guests to stay and explore, including amenities like a waterfront restaurant and time on the beach.

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This takes the cake

PANDEMIC-INDUCED CHANGES HAVE PAVED THE WAY FOR SMALLER, CUSTOM WEDDING DESSERTS

Weddings

By Kevin Druley | Photos provided by Sweet Dreams Desserts & Catering and Hilde Smith

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A

nnamarie and Stuart Neave elected to cut the conventional cake from their outdoor wedding celebration.

With a ceremony that started at 10 a.m. and a reception for 50 guests

immediately following, the move felt natural to the Batavia couple, who ordered pastries and donuts for family and friends while munching on their own custom cake.

While no one scribbled name placards for them that morning,

Illinois Department of Public Health officials arguably would have approved of the approach, too. The Neaves’ big day, Sept. 5, fell amid an evolving COVID-19 pandemic that has prompted much pivoting in the wedding dessert world, to be sure —

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Capturing all the beautiful moments that matter the most to our couples and families.

CONTACT US TO BOOK YOUR NEXT MILESTONE MOMENT. www.coachhousepictures.com | Email: info@coachhousepictures.com Call/Text: (224) 715-4019

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though not necessarily a wholesale makeover.

“Even before COVID, the trend was moving toward sweets tables; we were doing more of a smaller presentation cake and then mini pastries for the guests,” says Inga Theeke, manager of Cocoa Bean Fine Desserts & Bakery in Geneva. “So, I don’t know (that) the trend has really made a drastic change. It’s just the size of the gatherings and the intentionality behind really including something special.”

U.S. brides and bakery owners recently marked the one-year anniversary of navigating pandemicrelated concerns as they plan events that ideally marry state mitigation efforts with some semblance of a couple’s pre-pandemic vision.

The parties have mulled plenty of “what-if” scenarios during that span with the same end result: The wedding day may go off with a small hitch — we’re in a pandemic, after all — but couples nonetheless emerge as hitched.

“I mean, everything is still happening,” says Deanna Watkins, owner of Sweet Dreams Desserts & Catering in Sycamore. “It’s just on a smaller scale.

And you know, we still love what we do, and we’re here for people. Whether big or small, we’re here, so that’s my basic message for my customers, too.

Hey, we’ll take big, we’ll take small. We’re here to be a part of your history. That’s the fun part, you know.”

Flexibility from both sides is doubly appreciated, especially as recent health trends suggest a climate of improving public health overall.

Theeke says Cocoa Bean typically doesn’t begin preparing its wedding desserts, big cakes or otherwise, until the week of a couple’s nuptials. This allows for any last-minute tweaks, should they arise.

Of course, some menu additions or subtractions necessitate more scrambling than others.

Given the economic impact of the pandemic and the move toward smaller, individualized desserts for guests, many bakeries have had to adjust the ingredients they keep on hand.

Weddings

“It changes the dynamics of the kitchen,” Theeke says, “because I’m not making the large, tiered cakes, so often it’s more labor-intensive for us, because we’re making more of the individuals, and then individually decorating each of those instead of doing one big cake that the caterer might take care of later. The boxing individually or individually wrapped cookies certainly adds to the labor and the cost on our end, but obviously, that’s understandable. We’re trying to help people do what they need to do to celebrate safely.”

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In February, Watkins received a call from a couple that hopes to entertain 250 guests for a wedding in the works for summer 2022. While it’s difficult NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

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to forecast the feasibility and public safety of such an event, keeping an upbeat attitude remains an important constant, Watkins says.

planned to be married in their church. Two weeks before the ceremony, however, the church changed its protocol and prohibited serving food.

Even if the guest list has to shrink, there will be a wedding celebration in which something sweet is served.

“Oh yeah, they’re still excited about their life and what the future holds for them,” Watkins says, recalling her dealings with brides. “It’s just a little bit downsized. And some of them … there are some really disappointed girls that wanted this huge, magical wedding that it’s been downsized a lot.

But I think once they have it and realize that it was still just as special, just smaller, that they’ll be OK in the end, and they’ll work it out.”

While that development paved the way for a ceremony at the house where Annamarie Neave grew up, the cake situation already was in the bag thanks to her mother, Hilde, who earlier had sensed the mounting stress in the bride to be and talked with Theeke about creating a special custom cake.

The Neaves, who both attended Batavia High School but didn’t meet until after graduation, initially

“We took it on our honeymoon,” Annamarie Neave says, “and got to finish it there, too.”

The end result? A cake made of monkey bread and shaped like an oversized cinnamon roll. Naturally, the couple enjoyed a bite or two on their wedding day, but the enjoyment hardly ended there.

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Florists notice two shifts in recent wedding floral arrangements: the pandemic … and Pinterest

By Jonathan Bilyk | Photos provided by Paragon Flowers

Weddings

or Michael John, there are few feelings to match the moment he shows his flowers to the bride, and she begins to cry.

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“I lose as much sleep as anyone the night before a wedding,” says John, owner of Paragon Flowers in St. Charles. “But when we deliver, and the bride says, ‘That’s exactly what I wanted,’ a tear rolls down her cheek, maybe I get a hug?

“That’s the payoff, right there.”

he says.

For more than 40 years, John has been among the legion of florists throughout northern Illinois, delivering those “just what I wanted” moments to brides and grooms on their wedding days. So, John says he understands brides- and grooms-to-be face a dizzying array of choices when it comes to picking the right floral pro to come alongside and take their day beyond special. “There are no do-overs or apologies in weddings,”

Michelle Schulz manages Kar-Fre Flowers in Sycamore with her sister, Kris Wrenn. For 27 years, the pair has helped brides and grooms plan the color palettes for their big day.

“There’s nothing like helping them really capture their vision, and then bringing it to life,” says Schulz.

Katy Selmi, owner of Selmi’s Florist, Bridal and Special Events in Rock Falls, agrees.

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“A lot of my people have been thinking about, and dreaming about this day, their wedding, their dress, their flowers, their setting, for a long, long time,” says Selmi. “We give them their vision.”

In the past two years, those visions, however, have changed markedly. The shift has been partially shaped by the public health restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, and partially shaped by another force of nature: Pinterest.

On the public health side, weddings since spring 2020 have been smaller, more intimate affairs. Whereas in the past, couples may have opted for large indoor venues, seating hundreds, they may now host 25-50 guests.

While many people are still opting to postpone their celebrations until the pandemic ebbs and gathering restrictions ease, John notes a large number of his clients have simply reworked their nuptials into more simple affairs.

John estimates as many as 65% of his weddings have been small, outdoor affairs over the past year. Selmi

and Schulz say they’ve experienced the same, with many opting for tents or backyard weddings, or “microweddings,” as Schulz calls them.

While many couples are optimistically planning for larger events later in 2021, the florists say a majority of the couples they are working with so far this spring are pragmatically planning smaller affairs.

Such changes, compared to traditional celebrations, can have a big impact on the floral plan. On one hand, it may require significantly fewer flowers, as there may also be fewer bridesmaids and groomsmen, requiring fewer bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres. That, in turn, could increase the couple’s buying power to employ certain kinds of flowers that had been previously unaffordable, says Schulz.

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That, however, has not meant brides have gone crazy with color. On the contrary, the florists say, brides today are opting for more muted or “vintage” color schemes, with emphasis on ivory, peach, lavender, mauve

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and rose gold hues, accented with heavy sprinklings of green. “It’s all about going ‘natural,’” says Schulz.

She notes even bouquets have transitioned from “high and tight” to a more “hand-gathered” look.

Popular choices have included peonies; calla lilies; Amaranthus; dahlias; Ranunculus; and white, ivory or sand-colored roses such as the Sahara rose, the florists say. Greenery is everywhere in today’s weddings, they say, whether as garlands, on archways and centerpieces or in the bouquets. Popular green choices have included such plants as millet, kale, seeded eucalyptus and Italian Ruscus, among others.

The florists say the transition to such natural, subdued color schemes predates the onset of the pandemic.

Rather, it has consistently been driven by the social media crafting site Pinterest.

With the ability for brides anywhere to share ideas with one another — to see, in detail, images from thousands of weddings across the U.S. and around the world — the site has proven to be both a boon and bane for florists.

On one hand, it has led many brides to believe, whether wrongly or rightly, that they can “do-it-yourself” when preparing their wedding flowers. This can, at best, add to the stress of the

• Check out the social media pages and websites of florists you’re considering. They should post images of arrangements they have completed themselves, not images borrowed from national floral outlets, says Selmi.

“Weddings can be stressful enough, and when you get down to the days before, it can be overwhelming.”

• Don’t be shy to ask questions. John suggests such questions as: Who will actually be working for my wedding? How many weddings do you do on a weekend? How will I, and my wedding, be held in the regard I — and it — deserve?

On the other hand, however, Pinterest can help florists get inside the head of those soon-to-be-wed to fully grasp their vision. “I know a lot of florists hate it, but we love it,” says Schulz. She says Kar-Fre staff will often encourage brides-to-be to share their favorite Pinterest images, or allow them to peruse their Pinterest pages.

“Often, we find the same flowers and colors and themes running through their favorites,” says Schulz.

“They usually don’t see it, but we can say, ‘Oh, I see you really love this particular flower.’

“Then we can build an entire theme around that.”

The florists offered some tips for those seeking to select a florist: • Identify what you like, but be flexible.

Professional florists have the skill and knowledge to turn your vision into a reality that won’t leave you with a mess.

• Pick out your color scheme and gowns before you begin seriously planning with the florist. The gowns will go a long way toward helping the florist make everything come together. (See Tip 1.)

• Be honest and be patient. Good florists who take pride in their work will ask lots of questions to help you achieve your vision within your budget. While you may not know a lot about flowers, they do. And if you only have so much to spend, let them know at the outset.

“Our goal is to make sure your wedding is a reflection of your style, and your personalities,” says Schulz.

“When they look back in 25-30 years, we want them to say, ‘That was a great day. It was exactly what we wanted.’”

Interested in learning more about floral design?

Consider taking a workshop class through a local florist or library program!

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day or, at worst, lead to disaster, with professional florists left to pick up the pieces for a hefty price. “It’s tempting to see those pictures on Pinterest and think, ‘Oh I can do that,’” says Selmi.

“But even after decades of doing this, we’re still learning and perfecting.

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Historic

hotels Getting ready to travel again? Here are some local lodgings options

By Hannah Hoffmeister Photos provided by Shane Cleminson Photography, Starved Rock Lodge, Kathy Casstevens and the Plainfield Inn

S

tay still for just a moment, and let your mind wander to your next trip.

the helm since 2003. “Hotel Baker has always had a special presence in St. Charles,” she says, adding it will continue to be and that the hotel adds to the story of the northernmost of the Tri-Cities.

Where We Live

Can you feel it? At Neighborhood Tourist, we can. It’s the itch to travel, the inkling like that may be a possibility sometime soon.

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But after a year spent mostly at home, the first place you may dare to venture is probably closer to home than, say, internationally or to the coasts. For this reason, we rounded up three historic hotels, each with their own story and options for a relaxing stay.  HOTEL BAKER Hotel Baker is what co-owner and general manager Rowena Salas affectionately refers to as “the heart of downtown St. Charles.” Built on the

site of the Haines Mill next to the Fox River, Hotel Baker opened in 1928 as the vision of Edward Baker, who famously referred to the hotel as “my pride and joy.” Rooms cost just $2.50 a night then.

The building itself has changed ownership several times since its almost century in business; Salas and her husband, Joe, have been at

Hotel Baker includes 53 guest rooms as well as ROX City Grill, where you’ll find live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday; small plates; and signature cocktails. Joe Salas had previously been in a band, so the live entertainment has been a constant since the couple started at the historic building — and you don’t have to be a hotel guest to dine at the restaurant. “It’s a special place for the community,” says Salas.

And if you’re looking to get married soon, that’s Hotel Baker’s specialty — picture a riverfront patio and

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Where We Live

garden area for your ceremony, and a magnificent, oval ballroom for the reception. (Popstar Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy wed there in 2014.) The venue is booking events for 2022 already.

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still retains much of the charm its architect intended,” according to the lodge’s website.

upscale inn was built in 1851 as a schoolhouse for just $1,200 and was used for 30 years.

 STARVED ROCK LODGE Located in Starved Rock State Park, Starved Rock Lodge was built more than 80 years ago in the 1930s, in part by the Civilian Conservation Corps. “Their craftsmanship was masterful,” says Kathy Casstevens, director of marketing. A towering, stunning fireplace serves as a focal point of the lodge’s Great Hall.

Starved Rock Lodge is also a popular wedding venue, especially for couples who want an outdoor element to their special day. Prepandemic, the lodge hosted about 150 weddings per year. While things have changed with COVID-19, the team has added safety and cleaning measures as well as helped couples with tiered guest lists to make sure their wedding is what they want, even if it has to downsize to meet restrictions.

Although the downtown Plainfield building has been around since before the Civil War, it’s only been owned by three families. The first two lived there with their families.

The current owners, the Myers family, renovated the home and opened it in 2017 as an inn.

All cabins and rooms at the lodge and hotel open up to nature, providing built-in relaxation and respite for those looking to reconnect with the outdoors. The 69 lodge rooms and 16 cabins have been updated, but the unhewn logs, Joliet limestone and original appeal still remain. “Despite the changes through modernization, the Lodge

 THE PLAINFIELD INN If you had visited the Plainfield Inn 170 years ago, you would’ve had to bring school supplies. The

A lot of wedding parties rent the trolley to go see or take pictures at the waterfall or the river, Casstevens says. You can also book your rehearsal dinner or post-wedding breakfast at the lodge.

Each of the three suites is named after a former owner or occupant of the building: Spangler, Goodson and Herrington. When you arrive, your room contains a “field pass” that includes incentives for every restaurant in downtown Plainfield.

You’ll also find down pillows, comfortable sheets, bathrobes, upscale shampoo and a rain shower in each room. Book on Airbnb for just $80-85 a night per room, depending on the suite.

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IN THE CITY OF

V

Historic Pride

isit Historic Lockport and see the Ducks in our Keep Our Small Businesses Afloat Campaign!

Our 36” tall ducks will be on display throughout the City of Lockport Memorial Day through Labor Day Weekend. Each duck has been lovingly sponsored by a business to help our small businesses that have struggled over the past year, and we have partnered with the Illinois State Museum to bring fun, fine artists to our community to design each duck. Stop by any of our small businesses to pick up a passport. Visit each duck, get your passport stamped by the sponsored business, and receive a rubber duck. Each business you visit that has a duck will provide coupons for them and surrounding businesses along with facts about the artist and the duck’s sponsor. Help our businesses take flight again!

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to STARVED ROCK COUNTRY IF YOU HAVEN’T YET, DISCOVER THIS GROWING MIDWEST TRAVEL DESTINATION THIS SPRING OR SUMMER

By Ryan Searl | Photos provided by Starved Rock Country

L Where We Live

ocated about an hour southwest of Chicago, Starved Rock Country is a beautiful stretch of central Illinois unlike anything else in the Midwest. This idyllic community is home to enormous waterfalls, unforgettable hiking trails, unmatched river views and the legendary Starved Rock State Park.

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Starved Rock Country has been a premiere destination to soak in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life for more than 100 years, but there’s never been a more exciting time to visit the area than right now. Dozens of new eateries, breweries, distilleries, boutique shops, artisans, bakers and new public parks have turned this coalition of picturesque riverfront

communities into one of the Midwest’s fastest growing vacation destinations.

In 2019 Shaw Media, in partnership with the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau, introduced a revamped website, www.starvedrockcountry.com, that features articles and photo galleries on all the best attractions and events the area has to offer. Along with accompanying Facebook and Instagram pages, this hassle-free website gives you a daily snapshot of the art and culture of Starved Rock Country that so many returning guests have come to know and love.

Starved Rock, Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock state parks, along

with neighboring communities like Ottawa, Utica, La Salle and Peru, saw a banner number of visitors in 2020. In light of COVID-19 travel restrictions, Chicagoans and suburban residents in search of in-state daytrips and overnights have found the open air, cozy downtowns, accommodating restaurants and ample lodging options of Starved Rock Country to make for a welcome and safe travel destination in an unusual year.

On www.starvedrockcountry.com, you’ll find helpful content broken down into three main categories: Things to Do, Places to Eat and Where to Stay. In the dining portion, you’ll find weekly “Mystery Diner” stories; these quick

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ANY type of property, ANY time of year

509 LaMoille Road, PO Box 110 Sublette, IL 815-849-5476 www. woodhavenlakes.com Mary Lovgren, Broker 815-994-1449 Lisa Maher, Broker 773-459-5472 Sal Bayron, Broker 312-952-3409 • Marcia Kosowski 779-423-5947 Justin Wiley, Broker 815-849-5309 Bonita Willis, Designated Managing Broker

We invite you to stop by and enjoy a multi-level shopping experience reviews and photo galleries of local favorite restaurants are great ways to explore what a trip to these restaurants looks and feels like, alongside in-depth features on popular dining destinations like B.A.S.H. (Burger and Sushi House), The Lone Buffalo

by Tangled Roots Brewing Company and the Illinois craft beer-centric Lodi Tap House.

While exploring the “Where to Stay” portion of the site, you’ll learn about the eclectic selection of hotels, lodges and cabin rentals the area has to offer. Be sure to explore the articles on showpiece lodging destinations like the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center, Kishauwau’s Starved Rock Area Cabins and Camp Aramoni, a new luxury camp nestled on the banks of the Vermillion River.

On our “Things to Do” page, you’ll find articles ranging from live music previews to trail reviews that introduce you to lesser-known treks found in the area. While you’re there, be sure to click on the “newsletter” button on the website banner. Signing up for our unobtrusive, weekly

mailing list is the easiest way to catch up all the latest events happening in the area and get early access to our contests and overnight stay giveaways.

To start planning your own excursion, be sure to follow Starved Rock Country on Facebook. There we’ll post links to popular articles, highlight upcoming socially distanced events and tip you off to new restaurant and drink specials. Over on our Instagram, @starvedrockcountry, we showcase some of the amazing photos that Shaw Media photographers and area visitors have captured during their travels. Recent popular posts include shots of ice climbers scaling the frozen waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park and flocks of bald eagles making their annual stop along the Illinois River.

From large families looking to take a weeklong vacation to solo hikers just looking to get away for the afternoon, there are adventures for everyone to be had in Starved Rock Country. We look forward to helping you plan your next visit!

307 First Ave., Sterling Monday-Sunday 10am-4pm

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WHAT CATCHES

your Eye?

At Geneva Design House by Strawflower, you’ll find a wide selection of rugs, custom floral arrangements and everything in between

By Louise Treeny | Photos provided

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ew name, same shop: Strawflower Shop & Rug Merchant, a staple of the Tri-Cities since 1976, is rebranding as Geneva Design House by Strawflower.

color to orchestrating the entire room’s makeover.

This can include floral arrangements, a longtime offering of the shop. Orchids and simple flowers have been popular recently, Haas says, but Geneva Design House can design custom arrangements to match any room’s look. Looking to update your upholstery while you’re updating lighting, rugs and overall feel?

Haas says oversized sofas and sectionals — all with a common ground of comfort — are in.

Where We Live

“We’ve always updated our store, but never our name,” says Mike Haas, who co-owns the shop with his wife, Susan, and daughter Kelsey. “We believe in updating all the time.”

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Geneva Design House carries furniture, rugs, lighting, lamps, wall decor and more to fit home renovation needs. The family renovated the store’s layout last year, a move that was planned prepandemic but worked out well: They’re looking forward to showing off the new look as foot traffic increases this spring. The renovations added 2,000 square feet to the first floor, where the Haas family added a full-fledged kitchen to showcase their design capabilities there.

The shop’s rug display, sized from small area rugs to carpets that fit a family room, has also grown. An “erased” look, in which the rug is made to look a bit older, is trending right now, says Haas, who points to colors like burgundy, navy and true blues. “Rugs are like art,” he says. “Treat (the showroom) like an art museum — see what you like. What catches your eye?”

To stay on top of trends, the Haas team goes annually to High Point Market, described on its website as “the largest furnishings industry trade show in the world.”

The market is just 2 miles from where Kelsey studied interior design at High Point University, making it a familiar trip for her. “We’ve stayed with the design world as far as decor,” says Haas.

An area rug is an important first purchase for renovations; you can then tie your color scheme and patterns to the rug. “We have a beautiful assortment of rugs,” Haas says, adding that you can’t see color, depth and design as well online as you can in the store. (Call to schedule a private appointment if you’re more comfortable shopping that way.)

In addition to rugs that are ready to go home the day you view them in store, Geneva Design House also offers interior design services, from picking a paint

No matter what you’re looking for — modern, transitional or traditional — and no matter the budget, the Geneva Design House team is able to help all customers. A name change certainly hasn’t altered that.  GENEVA DESIGN HOUSE BY STRAWFLOWER 210 W. State St., Geneva 630-232-7141 www.genevadesignhouse.com

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COLLECTIONS Experience the Charm of Shopping in a Grand Old Mansion

Amazing Grace Antiques 401 N. Main Street (Route 47) Elburn

630-365-2006

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4 Additional Shops in Elburn!

F urniture ~ Lighting ~ Glassware ~ Artwork ~Jewelr y ~ Linens ~ Garden Fixtures & Much More Antique & Vintage Treasures in styles ranging from Victorian to Hollywood Regency to Cottage Chic Blue Victorian house located on the corner of Rt. 31 & Wilson St., Batavia Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sun Noon-5pm

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This historic home’s 144plus rooms are filled with affordable antiques, primitive to Victorian. Shop in this relaxed, kid friendly, hometown atmosphere, where the coffee and hugs are free.

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A Home Decor Boutique Featuring Handmade & Refurbished Artisan Works Located inside the Historic Newton House in Downtown Batavia

Housed in a Charming 8000 Sq. Ft. 100 Year Old Barn

Multi Dealer Market

Wed & Fri 10-5, Thur 12-7, Sat 9-4, Sun 9-3, Closed Mon & Tues

11 N. Batavia Ave., Batavia • 630-806-6646 www.giabelladesigns.com Hours: Wed - Sat 10-4 Sun 11-3

Shoppers will delight in our area’s widest selection of barnwood furniture, vintage, primitive & modern boutique rolled into one. Farmhouse furniture and decor, boutique style clothing, jewelry, man-cave, boho, MCM, antiques, gourmet goods and gifts.

475 W. Army Trail Rd • Bartlet IL 60103 630-326-8858 • info@prestigecreativemarkets.com

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From the ground up The arrival of spring marks the beginning of gardening season — it’s time to go buy seeds and starters

By Kelley White Photos provided by Selmi’s Greenhouse and Wasco Nursery

S

pringtime unearths a sense of starting anew. What better way to bring positivity and purpose into your life than starting a garden, or finessing your old one with a solid foundation? This year, seek out local nurseries for a multitude of garden selections and friendly advice from neighborhood experts who care.

Matt Selmi, owner of Selmi’s Greenhouse & Farm Market in Rock Falls, and Meagan Provencher, senior landscape designer at Wasco Nursery & Garden Center in St. Charles, offer some simple tips on starting your garden this spring:

Where We Live

• PICK A SPACE: Provencher specifies cleaning up an old gardening space of debris and freshening mulch or soil. Remember to establish the variances of your soil, sun exposure and other elemental nuances before planting seeds or plant starts.

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• SEEDS & PLANT STARTS: Choose from a variety of recommended seeds, or invest in several plant starts for both vegetables and flowers. The seed packets will tell you the time

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of year, temperature, soil and sun exposure optimal for your seedling.

Ask your local greenhouse and garden center about their plant starts and how to best take care of them. Selmi encourages using plant starts, especially for beginners, as they are ready to plant and make it much easier to create a successful foundation for your garden.

• GET ON A SCHEDULE, AND MAKE A REGIMEN: Local nurseries sell a variety of products to help get your garden blooming and bountiful. Make sure to follow the suggested schedule of fertilization, watering, pruning and maintaining your space.

If you don’t have the space for an in-ground garden, consider container gardening as an innovative alternative.

Jill Barczak, daughter of Blumen Gardens’ owners Joel and Joan Barczak, offers a range of suggestions for what to use in your compact garden designs such as bachelor’s buttons, zinnias, larkspurs and marigolds. There are just a few steps to get started on your container gardens: • Buy seeds and plant starts that thrive

in containers or boxes.

• Freshen your favorite pots with proper soil and compost mixes for your desired seedlings or plant starts.

• Do your research: Ask your local greenhouses about the different varieties of plants best suited for your containers, where to place them around the outside of your home, and how to tend to each plant or seedling’s need.

• Plant a tea garden with chamomile or mint, cultivate common vegetables like tomatoes and peppers, or combine varieties of your favorite flowers to complement your landscape. Barczak says to “grow what you like to eat and (plant) what flowers you love.”

Spending time at your local nurseries, getting to know their employees and following their advice is key in the gardening process. Do not be dissuaded or daunted by the path to gardening success; rather, embark on a journey full of relaxation and purpose.

(And hopefully tasty food and beautiful flowers, too!)

6 places to get you started  Blumen Gardens 403 Edward St., Sycamore 815-895-3737 www.blumengardens.com

 Wasco Nursery & Garden Center 41W781 Route 64, St. Charles 630-584-4424 www.wasconursery.com

 Schwarz Nursery & Garden Center 21W020 Army Trail Road, Addison 630-627-6261 www.schwarznursery.com

 Whispering Hills Garden & Landscape Center 8401 Route 31, Cary 847-658-5610 www.whisperinghillsnursery.com

 Selmi’s Greenhouse & Farm Market 1206 Dixon Ave., Rock Falls 815-626-3830 www.selmi.com

 Winding Creek Nursery & Garden Center 8241 Millbrook Road, Millbrook 630-553-7211 www.windingcreek-nursery.com NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

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No pickles were eaten in the making of this rapidly growing sport

By Allison Bills

Photos provided by Fox Valley Park District and St. Charles Park District

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y some accounts, the sport of pickleball was named after a dog named Pickles who liked to chase the game ball.

Another account claims pickleball was named after pickle boats, in which oarsmen are chosen from the leftovers of other boats in crew.

No matter how its name came to be, one thing is for sure: The sport of pickleball has come a long way since its humble beginnings in a backyard in Washington.

Pickleball may not be as mainstream as baseball or football, but it certainly has its audience — and the sport is gaining traction every day.  HISTORY OF PICKLEBALL Much like how many fun adventures start, pickleball was invented by three dads who were trying to keep their children entertained during the summer.

Per USA Pickleball, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum are credited with developing the sport in 1965 at Pritchard’s home on Bainbridge Island near Seattle. They originally started playing on an old badminton court with what they had around the house: table tennis paddles and a perforated ball.

It didn’t take long for them to realize what a great family sport it was, so they developed rules and updated the equipment with that in mind.

“It was strictly an accident,” McCallum said in an interview in 2009. “There was nothing formal about it.”

Since its inception, pickleball has grown to over 8,500 places to play in the United States, and according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s 2019 Pickleball Participant Report, there are currently 3.3 million players in the U.S. alone.

and combines them into a family-friendly sport. “The rules follow a similar set up as tennis and ping-pong,” says Megan Hatheway, athletic supervisor for the St. Charles Park District.

The game is typically played on a badminton-sized court in doubles or singles. The objective of the game is to score points by hitting the ball over the net.

“Points are only scored by the serving team, and games are played to 11 points; a team must win by two,” Barry adds.

“Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports today, the rules are simple and the game itself is easy for beginners to grasp,” says Josh Barry, Vaughan Athletic Center facility manager for the Fox Valley Park District.

And the growth rate is no exaggeration — the aforementioned report found that the total growth rate for all players from 2015 to 2018 was 29.1%.  HOW TO PLAY If the game of pickleball sounds familiar, that’s because it is. The game takes some of the rules and strategies of tennis, racquetball, badminton and ping-pong NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

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Since only the serving team can score, serving is an extremely crucial part of the game. “All serves must be underhand and diagonally cross-court,” Barry says. “On a serve, the opposing team must let the ball bounce once before they can play the ball.

If it bounces twice, a point is awarded to the serving team.”

One aspect of pickleball is that the court also has a non-volley zone that players are not allowed to enter. Barry notes the zone is often referred to as “the kitchen,” and phrases such as “stay out of the kitchen” are common for new athletes learning the sport.

Pickleball can be as competitive or laidback as the players prefer.

“The great thing about pickleball is that anyone can play!” says Hatheway. “Youth through older adults can play. You can be in any shape to play, and it is a great exercise.”

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“The game can develop into a fastpaced and competitive environment for experienced players, but the most alluring component of pickleball is that it’s inclusive to people of all ages and skill levels,” Barry adds.  CLASSES AND OPEN PLAY While pickleball is an extremely accessible sport due to minimal equipment and experience needed, many park districts and fitness centers have worked to make it even more accessible.

The St. Charles Park District offers dropin play from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at Haines

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Plus, not much is needed to play; all you need are a few paddles, a ball and a net.

Barry notes that the ball has holes and is similar to a Wiffle ball, while the paddles are graphite and aluminum and are bigger than a table tennis paddle but smaller than a tennis racquet.

D

esse rts 306 W State Street Downtown Geneva 630-208-7070 www.stockholmsbrewpub.com

New Specials Every Month Full Menu for Dine In Or Carry Out Growlers of Our Handcrafted Beer To Go Bourbon Barrel Brews $3.50 Daily Craft Beer Specials Try Raider’s Root Beer (ABV 7.5%)

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Gymnasium and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and Thursday at the Pottawatomie Community Center. “When the weather is nice, we have outdoor courts available to play at as well as the indoor courts,” Hatheway says. “Even if you have never played before, come on out to one of our open plays, and you will be welcomed and taught how to play the great game of pickleball.”

In addition to drop-in play, the park district also offers a youth pickleball class and a pickleball 101 class for adults.

“The classes are a great way to learn the sport and rules,” Hatheway says, noting masks are required at all times, even when playing. “It teaches the participants what they need to know in order to join a group and play.”

The Fox Valley Park District also regularly provides accessible pickleball classes and open houses, though some have been limited due to COVID-19. Typically, it offers a tournament or two throughout the year, but

those have been sidelined for the time being.

Currently, the district offers pickleball from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Vaughan Athletic Center with additional open sessions at the Prisco Community Center and two outdoor parks.

Fees are included in most memberships at the center, but day passes can also be purchased.

At www.places2play.org, you'll find a comprehensive list of athletic facilities throughout Illinois with pickleball courts, courtesy of USA Pickleball. While many listings are current, some rules and restrictions may be in place due to COVID-19, so contact the venue before visiting.

“Everyone should try pickleball because it really is for everyone,” Hatheway says. “You don’t need to be in the best shape to play, and you can play with your kids. It is a fun game that is easy to learn, and can be as competitive as you want it to be.”

Pottawatomie Golf Course Most Beautiful Golf Course in the Fox Valley!

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Green Fees: March-September M-F SaSu & Holidays 9-Holes $18 $20 Twilight* $14 $14 Pottawatomie Golf Course combines the best of both worlds for any golfer – a scenic, beautiful and challenging par 35 design that can be enjoyed by players of all ages.

It is a unique property, blessed with an abundance of natural features and the prominence of the Fox River.

* Walking only. Times subject to change throughout the season due to change in daylight hours.

845 N. Second Avenue • St. Charles, IL

Tee Times: 630-584-8356 pottawatomiegc.com NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

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RUBI A Latin American cuisine and fun-loving atmosphere come together at this Homer Glen restaurant

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Photos provided by Rubi Agave

Ruben Pazmino, owner and president, says he wants his guests to enjoy their favorite dishes or explore new tastes when they visit his restaurant, and that is why he created a menu featuring Latin American cuisine. “There is a lot more to Latin American food than tacos and enchiladas,” he adds.

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hen patrons open the menu at Rubi Agave Latin Kitchen, Tequila & Whiskey Bar, they may find their favorite comfort foods, or reconnect with a taste from a past trip through Brazil, or even venture to try an entirely new dish for the first time.

Pazmino relishes his role in the business: managing operations, experimenting with the menu and designing the drink menu. For him, the Homer Glen restaurant is a second home and a business with which he is quite familiar, having grown up with his parents in the hospitality industries. His mother owned a Chicago restaurant

while his father used to own the Tropicana, a Latin nightclub in Chicago.

“I learned early on every part of the restaurant business, from busing tables to creating menus,” Pazmino says. “When you grow up in the restaurant business, the business becomes a part of you.”

Inspired by his parents, he wants to give his customers delicious food and an experience that will delight all the senses, from the flavors of the dishes to the drink choices, music and feel of the vibrant restaurant. The restaurant serves as a lounge at night, providing live entertainment that includes salsa bands, Brazilian dancers and Vegas-style shows. He named the restaurant after his sister, Rubi, and chose to open the business in Homer Glen, where he has lived for the past 22 years and currently serves as a village trustee.

The restaurant has become a destination for guests to enjoy their favorites and explore the newer parts of the menu as Pazmino and

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AGAVE his staff brings dishes from the tropics of Cuba and Puerto Rico as well as staples from Brazil, Chile or Argentina.

“Often I hear people say they tried this dish once when they traveled or while on a cruise,” Pazmino says. “We love bringing the Latin American palate to our guests with foods and drinks.”

Even some of the staples of MexicanAmerican cuisine that are on the menu are elevated to new levels with the mix of flavors. Some of the offerings on the tapas menu include mango chipotle wings, fried Caribbean cheese with guava dipping sauce, coconut shrimp and broasted sweet plantains with savory toppings. Consider pairing your entree — sauteed skirt steak, a burrito, enchiladas and more — with a

margarita, sangria, or cocktail like “the Colombian,” made with pineappleinfused vodka, agave nectar and more. (“Dangerously refreshing,” according to the menu.)

While the past year wasn’t easy on restaurants, it gave Pazmino the incentive to answer the call to provide catering options. Now some of the well-loved dishes from the restaurant are available for takeout to give customers a delicious family dinner or celebrate a special occasion.

And while most restaurants enjoy decorating for the holidays, Pazmino takes his love of Christmas and brings it to a new level, transforming the restaurant into “Santa’s Cantina.” From November to January each year, the

entire restaurant is covered in holiday decor.

With spring around the corner, Pazmino is excited to welcome guests back to his covered and heated patio as well as slowly resume some of the live shows and music that give the restaurant its supper club feel that so many have grown to love.

And lastly, keep your eyes out for a location near you — he has plans to launch a second location in the coming year.  RUBI AGAVE 12622 W. 159th St., Homer Glen 708-301-8006 www.rubiagave.com

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f o a r Pletho t is — to find a th , ie p a z iz — p ion It’s easy as pie ood Tourist reg rh o b h ig e N e th tasty slices in

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eep-dish. Thin crust. Brick oven or wood-burning stove. No matter how you slice it, Chicago and its surrounding regions serve up many mouthwatering options. Grab plenty of napkins as you eat your way through some of the best pizza offerings in northern Illinois.

DEKALB COUNTY

Pizza Villa 824 W. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb www.pizzavilla.com This family-owned pizzeria has been an institution in DeKalb for more than 60 years. When you stop by, try the Pizza Villa Special — this favorite is piled with Italian sausage, mushrooms, green peppers and onion. While waiting for your pizza, try the Villa Nuggets, light puffs of fried dough that come plain or tossed with parmesan, cinnamon sugar or with a drizzle of warm vanilla frosting.

DUPAGE COUNTY

Pazzi di Pizza 105 S. York St., Elmhurst www.pazzidipizza.com A vision by friends to share dishes from different parts of Italy led to the opening almost 10 years ago of Pazzi di Pizza, which translates to “crazy for pizza.” The Capricciosa comes topped with mozzarella, prosciutto, sauteed mushrooms, artichoke hearts and Gaeta olives. Or try one of the white pizzas, including Ciao Roma, which comes with spinach and two cheeses, mozzarella and ricotta.

GRUNDY COUNTY

Geo’s Pizza 715 S. Broadway, Coal City www.geospizza.net Winner of the Best Pizza of Greater Grundy award, Geo’s Pizza has dished up a variety of specialty

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and gourmet pizzas for more than 30 years. Pizzas can be served on gluten-free or cauliflower crusts. The “Baconator” Cheeseburger pizza features all your favorite cheeseburger toppings. Or, if you’re in the mood for Italian, the Grilled Chicken Alfredo pizza starts with a creamy white parmesan Alfredo sauce topped with grilled chicken and red onion.

KANE COUNTY

Riverside Pizza & Pub 456 Redington Drive, South Elgin 102 E. Main St., St. Charles 142 W. Wilson St., Batavia www.riversidepizzapub.com This family-oriented pizzeria offers a neighborhood vibe to watch a game or catch up with friends. The specialty pizzas include classics like Hawaiian and Margherita, along with their own spin on pizza such as The Don, topped with the fixings of a classic Italian beef and sausage combo sandwich. You can also customize your own pizza with your choice of meats, veggies and crust, including thin, gluten-free or stuffed cheese crust.

KENDALL COUNTY

Danelli’s 228 E. Washington St., Oswego www.danellisitalianrestaurant.com Danelli’s has been serving its homemade pizzas and Italian dishes for more than 40 years. The Anello di Abbondanza (ring of plenty) is a combination sure to please meat lovers with sausage, pepperoni and

ham balanced out with a plethora of veggies including onion, green peppers, black and green olives, and tomatoes. Be sure to ask your server if you’d like a thin and crispy crust or a gluten-free cauliflower crust.

LA SALLE COUNTY

Pizzas by Marchelloni 930 Shooting Park Road, Peru www.marchellonisperu.com Primarily a carryout and delivery establishment, Pizzas by Marchelloni does offer a few tables for a socially distanced night out. Create your own pizza masterpiece or try one of their specialty pizzas, which include taco, Hawaiian and barbecue chicken pizzas. Cauliflower crusts are available upon request. To get the full experience, we suggest pairing your pizza with a side of the signature mild sauce.

LEE AND WHITESIDE COUNTIES

Angelo’s Pizzeria 1804 Locust St. and 2525 E. Lincolnway, Sterling 608 12th Ave., Rock Falls 800 N. Galena Ave., Dixon www.angelospizzeria.net The secret of this pizzeria’s success is in the sauce, which you can buy by the jar for your own dishes at home. The Angelo’s Special features sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onion, green peppers and tomatoes. If you’re having a hard time choosing between

pizza and other culinary favorites, go for both with the taco pizza, spaghetti pizza or macaroni and cheese pizza.

MCHENRY COUNTY

Buddyz Pizza 1138 N. Green St., McHenry www.buddyzpizza.com/restaurantlocations/mchenry-il If you’re not ready yet to be a tourist in Chicago, head to Buddyz Pizza to eat your way through Chicago-style pizzas named after famous attractions in the city, including Navy Pier and Grant Park. You don’t need to be a Cubs fan to try the Wrigley Field pizza, topped with green peppers, Italian beef, onion and sausage. When the weather gets warmer, take advantage of the outdoor waterfront seating.

WILL COUNTY

Freedom Brothers Pizzeria & Alehouse 11914 S. Route 59, Plainfield www.freedombrotherspizza.com This rock-and-roll-themed, familyfriendly pizzeria dishes up brick oven pizzas named after musicians. We suggest the Pearl Jam — Chicagostyle beef, mozzarella and hot giardiniera layered on top of a homemade marinara base. All pizzas can be made with gluten-free crust or dairy-free cheese. Whichever pizza you choose, you’re sure to find the right beverage to pair it with from the over 20 craft beers on tap, a tasty cocktail, glass of wine or one of more than 300 whiskeys.

Editor’s note: Be sure to check the websites for the latest menu offerings and hours during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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'SEASONALITY AND LOTS OF CREATIVITY'

MANDRAKE’S ORGANIC SMALL PLATES AND WINES ELEVATE THE FOOD SCENE IN KENDALL COUNTY

Destination Dining

BY DIANE KRIEGER SPIVAK | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MANDRAKE

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N

o longer do local Kendall County foodies have to make that hour trek to the city for organic dishes and fine European wines. Now, those can be found in Yorkville.

Since July, Mandrake Small Plates & Libations has catered to the high-end palate with only fresh ingredients, many locally grown in Fox River Valley soil.

Co-owners Adrian Frost and Jarrod Johnson, the upscale eatery’s

sommelier and chef, respectively, closed Belladonna Tea & Coffee in early 2020 and made the switch.

“We realized there were a lot of other coffee shops in the area, but really nowhere to get really good food and good wine,” says Frost. “We totally bucked the local trends of putting frozen food on a plate. We don’t even own a freezer.

Everything is completely scratch made.”

For that reason, Frost and Johnson intend to keep Mandrake’s capacity limited because Johnson puts together every plate of food himself. “That’s really important

to us,” says Frost. “We strive for extreme seasonality and lots of

creativity. We’re more interested in

the quality of the ingredients we’re using and the flavor, rather than how pretty the plate looks.”

Forest floor risotto, Prince Edward Island mussels and whole roasted rainbow trout graced the winter shareables menu, alongside six other dishes and a handful of

charcuterie options. Most of the produce is grown on Frost and

Johnson’s organic farm, located in Kendall County.

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As for the seasonal menus, Frost says, “We try to make sure all our small plates are still part of the same menu, so that no matter what plate you get, you’re not getting discordant elements that don’t have flavor profiles that just don’t match. It’s really important for us to have not only seasonality, but also coherence so that you get a harmonious menu.”

Just don’t expect to see any repeat dishes. Menus completely change with the seasons, including the entire food menu, handcrafted cocktail menu and wine-by-theglass menu. “And we generally will not be repeating seasonal menus,” adds Frost.

 MANDRAKE SMALL PLATES & LIBATIONS 101 W. Van Emmon St., Yorkville 630-335-5431

www.mandrakewinebar.com

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One that will remain is the wine-bythe-bottle list. Mandrake focuses mainly on imported fine wines, many of those organic and from small family vineyards. Every menu item comes with a recommended wine pairing. “But if you didn’t want

to roll with that and kind of go off on your own, all the wines work with most of the small plates menu,” says Frost, who can employ his talents as sommelier to help you choose.

Response to Mandrake has been “extraordinary, especially now that the suburban foodies have discovered us,” says Frost. “That’s been our target market to begin with, and it’s been fantastic.

We’ve had lots of reservations on weekends...people from Naperville, Chicago, Geneva.”

While summer dining took place outside in the wine garden, winter temps moved guests indoors to the recently remodeled dining room.

It has a midcentury feel, sporting marble, dark green walls and natural wood. “We’re trying to keep it fancy but not stuffy,” says Frost.

“We want it to be approachable, but at the same time we want the ambiance to match the quality of the food.”

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April 15 - 30, 2021

JolietRestaurantWeek.com

DINING DEALS

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