snack

snackspot.chicago: c house

I penned a story for today's paper on Marcus Samuelsson's latest project Merkato 55, the African brasserie opening in New York City later this week. But it's not the only opening this year for the super Swedish toque. This April chitown will get a taste of his international stylings at C House in the Affina Hotel Hotel. It is envisioned as a seafood chop house, with an open kitchen and cool vibe designed by Brazilian architect Artur de Mattos Casas. The project comes under the umbrella of Marcus's Townhouse Restaurant Group, which will also oversea the all F&B at the hotel. That's industry-speak for Food & Beverage, which translates into room service, banquets, roof top bar, and everything else you eat when you're in a hotel.

snackspot.chicago: schwa 2.0

I had dinner at Schwa once, back in November of 2006. Chef Michael Carlson, along with his two kitchen ninjas and dish washer, put out a meal so good and earnest, it was one of my top five that year. It was also one of the toughest reservations to get. Then amidst the accolades and heights of popularity, he closed the doors abruptly in October the day after the now infamous Ferran Adria dinner. Almost as suddenly, Schwa is reopening in February. The first two weeks will go to folks who had reservations canceled, the hoi polloi can book a table from February 15th onward. I'm hopeful that in 2008 I'll get to have meal number two.