A quick glance at happenings in the Chicago area restaurant world.
Baja Fresh Mexican Grill will start the new year big with the Jan. 5 opening of its first downtown location at 180 N. Michigan Ave. 312-223-1113.
Join members of the Chicago Blackhawks at the “Pucks and Pasta” dinner at Maggiano’s Little Italy, 240 Oak Brook Center, Oak Brook, at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15. The evening will include Q&A with players, an Italian family-style dinner, silent auction, raffle and Blackhawks video highlights. The cost is $40-$60 per person, reservations required. Proceeds will benefit Chicago Blackhawk Charities, a fund of the McCormick Tribune Foundation. 630-368-0300.
In true French tradition, Bistro 110 will mark the end of the holiday season with a King’s Day celebration Jan. 19-25. The Pithivier, a puff pastry with an almond creme center, will be served and offers a lucky patron the opportunity to be “King for a Day,” if the lucky coin is underneath their dessert. For reservations, 312-266-3110.
It’s getting hot in heaven. Heaven on Seven Wrigleyville, that is. Executive chef/owner Jimmy Bannos has created the “Hot as a Mutha” Challenge, a five-course progressive Cajun spice dinner at 7 p.m. Jan. 26. The cost is $35 per person, reservations required. 773-477-7818.
Zealous, 419 W. Superior St., will be offering free corkage Tuesdays through Fridays with custom menus to match. Executive chef/owner Michael Taus will also offer culinary consultation. Through Jan. 30. For more information or reservations, 312-475-9112.
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Spiaggia, 980 N. Michigan Ave., has added to its four-star staff. Missy Robbins, formerly chef de cuisine at the SoHo Grand Hotel, will take the title of chef di cucina at Spiaggia. Joining her will be new cafe chef Richard Camarota.
Italian tapas has come to the North Shore with the opening of Gapeesh!, 550 Green Bay Rd., Highwood. Chef Kyle Waggoner offers a variety of generously portioned pasta, seafood, meat and vegetable tapas selections similar to the Spanish tapas style of entree samplings. For reservations, 877-861-9347.
The winter menu at the Green Room, 130 S. Green St., features seasonal offerings of traditional American fare with flare prepared by executive chef Larry Pierce. For reservations, 312-666-9813.
Indulgence begins early in the morning with the new breakfast and brunch menu at Cafe des Architectes, Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, 20 E. Chestnut St. Chef Frederic Castan offers traditional breakfast dishes with creative flair from 6 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, and an eclectic brunch menu 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For reservations, 312-324-4000.
Pane Caldo, 72 E. Walton St., is expanding its wines by the glass to include rare labels such as Chateau Petrus, Screaming Eagle, Le Montrachet, Chateau d’Yquem and Gaja. Prices range from $27-$190. For reservations, 312-649-0055.
“Chocolate at the Pen” has been added to The Lobby at The Peninsula Chicago, 108 E. Superior St. It offers decadent chocolate delicacies prepared by executive chef Terry Crandall and executive pastry chef Michael Gillet. “Chocolate at the Pen” takes place at 8 p.m.-midnight Fridays and Saturdays. The cost is $19.50 per person. For reservations, 866-288-8889.
Marche, 833 W. Randolph St., now offers lunch. Seasonal soups, fresh salads and a variety of sandwiches and seafood prepared by executive chef Corcoran O’Connor are available, along with items from Marche’s wood-burning grill and daily specials. For reservations, 312-226-8399.
Rushmore, 1023 W. Lake St., has unveiled its new private dining room on the second floor of its West Loop space. 312-421-8845.