Carlucci Restaurant & Bar

Downers Grove, IL| (630) 512-0990| website

Polpetti Al Ragu (homemade meatballs, braised tomatoes, fresh basil). Photo Credit: Michelle Guilbeau

I visited Carlucci Restaurant & Bar for lunch recently and overall my experience was exceptional!  When I walked into Carlucci’s, I was impressed with the beautiful décor and the welcoming feel-it was stylish yet a casual atmosphere.

We were seated at a lovely table near the patio; the patio was quite impressive with the large fountain reminiscent of an outdoor café in Italy. It is important to note that a live band performs every Saturday night from 8:00pm to 12:00am, when weather permits the live performances are held on the patio.

We were given the menu and it was obvious the lunch offerings were spectacular and interesting. We started our meal with appetizers. The first appetizer we indulged in was the Polpetti Al Ragu (homemade meatballs, braised tomatoes, fresh basil), the 4 meatballs were the perfect size to share and the taste was pure Italian, I was thrilled with the combination of flavors..... Read the full article on my website here.

Best 4th of July 2016 Fireworks Displays In Chicago

Seeing fireworks on the 4th of July is a tradition for most. The sky lit up with beautiful colors is a sight to see and the excitement felt on this holiday makes memories that last a lifetime. That time of year is soon upon us and there are numerous fireworks displays in Chicago. Here are the five best 4th of July 2016 fireworks displays in Chicago this season.

Fireworks burst above Lake Michigan… (Photo Credit: JEFF HAYNES/AFP/Getty Images)

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A water park is an economical way to spend the day with the kids and enjoy the great outdoors.The best water slides are in Chicago and kids love to enjoy the water fun in the summer.  Here are the 5 best water slides in Chicago. There is a great time had by all!

Photo Credit: Splash Station Waterpark’s Facebook

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 Photo Credit: halfacrebeer.com

Chicago has some of the best craft beers in the country, period. Highlighted are the best five spring craft beers. It is extremely difficult to select only five. There is no right or wrong… drink what is enjoyed most. The goal is simply to introduce beer drinkers to new options if they are not already familiar with these. The highlighted beers are fairly well known and can be purchased at the corresponding microbrewery in Chicago. The microbreweries offer tours, an excellent way to learn about beer and gain an understanding as to how it is made.

There are also great sites that do a fantastic job of reviewing craft beers, Beer Advocate and Rate Beers just to name a couple. It is important to try different beers for yourself. The reality is that everyone has a different palate. The texture, flavor and ABV make these craft beers excellent to enjoy after the Spring Equinox (first day of Spring) on March 20, 2016.

Click here to read about the best 5 best beers in Chicago

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Photo Credit: sweetpeastudio.com

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There are 2 excellent St. Patrick's Day parties happening in Chicago on Saturday, March 12! You will not want to miss these! Click on the logos for details.  No other city celebrates St. Patrick's Day better than Chicago!