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AN ARTSY AND ECLETIC VIBE WITH EXPERTLY CURATED DISHES AURORA/GENEVA–Craft Urban, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Geneva and Aurora, Illinois, is making waves with its innovative approach to food and beverages. With a commitment to showcasing local artisan producers, Craft Urban offers a menu that tantalizes the taste buds and celebrates the best of the region. At Craft Urban, diners can indulge in a culinary experience like no other. The menu boasts a delightful array of dishes that are not only delicious but also creatively crafted to offer a fusion of flavors that excite the palate. From hand-picked ingredients to expertly curated dishes, every bite at Craft Urban tells a story of passion and dedication to culinary excellence. But it's not just the food that sets Craft Urban apart; it's also their craft cocktail drinks that steal the show. Award-winning handcrafted cocktails paired with chef-driven creations elevate the dining experience to new heights, making every sip a journey of taste and refinement. In addition to their exceptional menu, Craft Urban hosts weekly brunches that are a must-try for food enthusiasts looking to start their day on a delicious note. Moreover, the restaurant's special events, like the popular Drag shows hosted monthly, add a touch of excitement and entertainment to the dining experience, making Craft Urban a vibrant hub for both foodies and social butterflies alike. Craft Urban in Geneva and Aurora truly embodies the essence of culinary artistry, community spirit, and inventive mixology, making it a go-to destination for those seeking a gastronomic adventure in Illinois. www.crafturban.com

DINING + COCKTAILS | Local Dish: Craft Urban of Aurora and Geneva

An Artsy and Eclectic Vibe with Expertly Curated Dishes

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Be Among the First Lucky 50 Guests to Visit any Island Fin Location on March 20, and Grab Your Exclusive FREE LIMITED EDITION Sticker!   #IslandFin   #Freebie DOWNERS GROVE/ORLANDO–Get ready for the ultimate poké party! On Wednesday, March 20, Island Fin Poké Co., America's favorite poké restaurant, is celebrating its seventh anniversary with an exciting sticker drop for its guests. This sticker is free to all guests who order a bowl on its anniversary and is available at all locations, until supplies last. "Thank you to our Ohana because we wouldn't be where we are today without the love and support," says Mark Setterington. Post this Island Fin Poké Co.'s birthday is on March 20th. In 2017, Mark Setterington, CEO and founder of Island Fin Poké Co. created a poké concept that combined deliciously vibrant flavors and emphasized creating an Ohana-like, or family-like, atmosphere in every location. This ideology and foundation are what set up Island Fin Poké Co. to experience success over the past seven years in over 20 locations across the U.S. "My concept behind this brand was to truly transport guests back to the islands of Hawaii through the flavors and atmosphere we radiate," said Setterington. "Our birthday signifies our brand's commitment to remain as authentic as we can for our guests and introducing a new style of fast-casual poké restaurant. I want to personally thank our Ohana because we would not be where we are today without your love and support!" For this celebration, Island Fin created a colorful sticker that represents the peaceful Hawaiian shores and it's exclusively available on March 20, until supplies last for any guest ordering a fresh poké bowl. This is the third of ten sticker drops this year, and if guests collect all ten, they can be entered in a raffle for the chance to win a customized Island Fin Poké Co. surfboard. "Our birthday means so much to us because we love celebrating with our Ohana. We wanted to give it back to our biggest fans, so we created this exciting prize with a customized surfboard, and the winner will be announced later this year," added Setterington. In the past year, the brand has opened new locations in different communities and states, has introduced multiple new menu items, such as the most recent Nashville Hot Chicken Bowl, always offering their guests an IncrediBOWL experience during each and every visit. Island Fin plans to expand its menu offerings and expand into even more new communities throughout the year. Island Fin has partnered with GNF Worldwide, the world's leading franchising firm, and has been recognized by multiple distinguished franchising publications such as Entrepreneur Magazine, where they earned the reputation of 2023 Top New & Emerging Franchises. For more information on the brand's sticker drops, visit IslandFinPoke.com  or stay tuned on social media for sticker drop announcements. For media inquiries, please email Bianca Kasawdish at Bianca@TeamInnoVision.com . About Island Fin Poké Co. Island Fin Poké Co. is a Florida-based fast-casual concept known for its Hawaiian-style build-your-own poké bowls. From farm-to-fork, the brand uses the freshest ingredients to bring traditional flavors from the islands to local communities nationwide. Founded in 2017, Island Fin Poké Co. has 23 locations open, with numerous others in various stages of development. Island Fin Poké Co. was ranked #29 on the 2023 Top New & Emerging Franchises list by Entrepreneur Magazine, listed in Fast Casual's 2023 Top Movers & Shakers list, and recognized as a Top 100 Game Changer for 2022 by Franchise Dictionary Magazine. For more information, or if interested in joining the brand's Ohana, please visit https://www.IslandFinPoke.com/ .

DINING | Island Fin Poké Co. Celebrates Its Seventh Birthday by Thanking Its Ohana

Be Among the First Lucky 50 Guests to Visit any Island Fin Location on March 20, and Grab Your Exclusive FREE LIMITED EDITION Sticker!

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The Celebrated Resort Launches Its Eighth Bar and Restaurant, Completing A Culinary Journey for Guests and Local Residents NAPLES– The Ritz-Carlton, Naples celebrates the debut of Nolita , the latest culinary experience for the newly renovated resort known for its exceptional culinary offerings. Drawing inspiration from its namesake neighborhood in New York, Nolita features artisan pastas made in-house from 00 durum wheat and semolina, as well as hand-tossed pizzas and a menu of familiar Italian classics influenced by family recipes. Drawing inspiration from Manhattan’s famed culinary district, Nolita features New York-style Italian classics, artisan pastas, and familiar dishes inspired by family recipes. By day, Nolita offers an expanded breakfast buffet, transitioning to a menu of timeless Italian fare for lunch. By night, the lively bar complements a dinner menu of classic dishes such as veal parmigiana, vongole, and spaghetti with meatballs. Boozy ice creams and timeless desserts complete the menu including Limoncello Strawberry Cheesecake and Tiramisu. Executive Chef Satish Yerramilli has selected talented Chef Lola Riboleau as Restaurant Chef, bringing her passion and attention to detail to the new restaurant.  "Like the Nolita neighborhood in Manhattan, Nolita has a wonderful, casual vibe. Our menu reflects the recipes of blended families and traditions, where dishes featuring red sauce sit on the table alongside white wine sauce. Those old conventions do not apply," Chef Yerramilli explains. "And the pizzas… everyone has an opinion about the perfect crust, but the pizza at Nolita is a must." Leading the Pizza Kitchen is Chef Gabriele Candela, a third-generation pizza chef who honed his skills in his grandfather's Palermo, Sicily pizzeria. With experience at renowned pizzerias including L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Naples, Italy, Chef Candela prioritizes top-quality ingredients such as 48-hour fermented flour, San Marzano D.O.P tomatoes, and Fior Di Latte mozzarella. His signature 'light as air' focaccia, a cherished family recipe, graces the Nolita menu. "The introduction of Nolita bolsters the resort's four-decade legacy as the premier dining destination in Naples, now with eight unique on-property bars and restaurants for our guests and local residents," said Ritz-Carlton Area General Manager Mark Ferland. "The Ritz-Carlton, Naples remains the iconic Florida resort where memories are made, and Nolita provides the perfect setting for sharing moments with friends and family in Naples." Located on the resort's Beach Level, Nolita joins recent additions to The Ritz-Carlton, Naples: Sofra, Moka, and the Lobby Bar. Inspired by the shared plates of the Eastern Mediterranean, Sofra features a vegetable forward menu highlighting the coastal flavors of Turkey, Greece, Israel, and Jordan. Moka, influenced by bustling Italian cafes, presents delightful coffee drinks curated by a third-generation roasting family. The Lobby Bar, steeped in tradition, offers a Master Sommelier-curated menu of Champagnes and wines, expertly paired with light bites crafted by Executive Chef Satish Yerramilli. Nolita is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with reservations available for dinner service at www.NolitaNaples.com or +1 (239) 598-3300.

DINING | The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Unveils Nolita: A Slice of New York with a Classic Italian Flair

The Celebrated Resort Launches Its Eighth Bar and Restaurant, Completing A Culinary Journey for Guests and Local Residents

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GRAB A SEAT AT THE ORIGINAL AL CAPONE BAR ST. CHARLES–Opening soon, Rock 'N Ravioli is a classic Italian Restaurant, located in the Arcada Theatre Complex, in downtown historic St. Charles. The menu has a wide variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Grab a seat at the original Al Capone bar and enjoy drinks before or after dinner. And don't forget to check out the unique guitar wall. You will not be disappointed in this gem! Opening soon – currently scheduling special events. www.rocknza.com/rockn-ravioli/

DINING + COCKTAILS | St. Charles Has a New Hot Spot –Rock 'N Ravioli

Grab a Seat at the Original Al Capone Bar

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COMMUNITY FOCUSED AND READY TO WOW! ANOTHER CHICAGOLAND SUBURB Guzman y Gomez (GYG), one of the world’s fastest-growing authentic Mexican fast-food restaurants, is thrilled to continue its swift expansion throughout the Chicagoland area, officially opening its fourth US location in the northwestern suburb of Buffalo Grove, slated to open in late October. Most recently, GYG launched a fundraising program at all US locations, offering local neighborhoods a platform to raise funds for their local sport teams, community organizations, and non-profit societies. For each fundraiser hosted at a local GYG, the team will donate 20% back to the organization. To further show their Chicagoland support, GYG has launched its Friday Night Lights campaign in which any student from their high school in Naperville, Schaumburg, or Crystal Lake can come into their respective GYG and get a BOGO burrito deal if their high school football team is playing a home game. LEARN MORE

DINING OUT | Guzman y Gomez is Expanding, Plus You'll Love their New Friday Night Lights Campaign

Community Focused and Ready to Wow! Another Chicagoland Suburb

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ENJOY THE RAMSAY'S KITCHEN EXPERIENCE IN DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE NAPERVILLE–I have always been a fan of Celebrity Chef TV shows, especially Master Chef and Hell’s Kitchen. I have dreamt about trying dishes made by the world-renowned Chef Gordon Ramsay and recently, my dream came true! Downtown Naperville’s most well-known restaurant also happens to be one of its newest. Chef Ramsay has expanded his brand of amazing restaurants with one of his latest and greatest creations, Ramsay’s Kitchen! The ambiance is upscale yet very welcoming. The motif of the restaurant was specifically designed to incorporate things that represent Ramsey's London roots; from the British Flag-inspired light fixture in the center of the restaurant to the half tunnels you sit under reminiscent of the London Underground. The impressive menu consists of several of his most popular dishes from across the globe like his famous fish and chips and hamburgers. I started the evening with the most amazing jumbo lump crab cake in existence. As many know, Ramsay’s most iconic dish is the Beef Wellington. Served medium rare and taking two days to perfect, this dish absolutely lives up to its reputation and hands down was my favorite of the evening. And of course, I indulged in the Sticky Toffee Pudding that everyone raves about. Ramsay once said, “from an early age I understood that cooking was never going to be a job, it’s a passion” and you absolutely see that passion exuding from the entire wait staff, managers and Chefs. The Naperville location is where the chefs are trained before being deployed to various locations. During my visit I was honored to have met Chef Wyatt, who will be the new Executive Chef for their newest location in Oklahoma City. I can't say enough good things about my evening here, and hope everyone has a chance to experience this incredible restaurant soon. –Mila Vardiani, Photo by Mike Catuara www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com

DINING + COCKTAILS | Inside Ramsay's Kitchen in Downtown Naperville

Enjoy the Ramsay's Kitchen Experience in Downtown Naperville

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LOCATED AT 8 W GARTNER IN NAPERVILLE NAPERVILLE–Have you heard of this trending healthy eats hot spot? Nautical Bowls serves açaí bowls packed full of superfood ingredients that are organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based, have no refined sugars, and are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients to fuel a full life. The founders of Nautical Bowl are passionate about living life to the fullest. “You are what you eat” rings true around here and when you eat Nautical Bowls, you are being filled with powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants go to work in your body, getting rid of whatever bad toxins are clouding you. Toxins not only come from our food–they are everywhere in the world around us. Eating healthy is just one piece to the healthy journey! At Nautical Bowls, they like to take care of the food piece of this health journey for you. They care about educating and inspiring their guests to take steps to live their best life. Their entire menu is what they like to call, “guilt-free”–aka, you can devour everything they offer & be set up for success! Nautical Bowls truly values a healthy & active lifestyle, which means they will always provide their guests with ingredients that will FUEL you right, to FEEL right. Fuel is one part of a healthy lifestyle, relationships are another. At Nautical Bowls, they like to prioritize both. Visit this super amazing place today! You will love it. www.nauticalbowls.com DINING + COCKTAILS NAPERVILLE

DINING | Next Stop: Naperville, Catch the Superfoods Wave at Nautical Bowls

Nautical Bowls Serves Açaí Bowls Packed Full of Superfood Ingredients

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DRIVE-THRU CHANGE BEING MADE TO INCREASE SPEED + SAFETY It's true that for some cash is king, but if they are headed to a Portillo's Drive-Thru after January 16, 2023, they better come prepared with their credit or debit card. According to NBC 5 Chicago, Portillo's announced on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, that all of its restaurant locations will stop accepting cash for drive-thru orders beginning January 16, 2023 . Portillo's is hoping this change will make the drive-thru ordering process faster for customers and safer for their employees at the same time. We asked a few of our readers what they thought about the change: "Cashless transactions are becoming more and more the norm these days. I'll still be there in the drive-thru on my lunch break– nothing can stop me! Portillo's is my FAVE" – Laura K., Naperville "Makes total sense and I love how it's not just to speed things up in the drive-thru, but to also help keep their employees safe. Keep up the great work Portillo's!" – Sandra M., Batavia DINING BUSINESS

DINING | Portillo's to Make a Big Change In their Ordering Process Mid-January

Drive-Thru Change Being Made to Increase Speed and Safety

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THE COMMUNITY SAYS GOODBYE TO LONGTIME LOCAL FAVORITE GENEVA–A west suburban favorite has announced its closure today in social media. Fiora's , located in a picturesque landmark building and property on 3rd Street in downtown Geneva has featured casual, contemporary American fine dining and exquisite wines that countless area residents have come to adore. The announcement was made today in social media. It reads as follows: Every good story has an ending. As only a few of you know, Mike suffered a critical health event this past year. He still has a tough road ahead of him that requires our complete focus. For this reason and with great sadness, we announce the closing of Fiora’s effective today (January 3, 2023). Fiora’s story is full of good food, fine wines, laughter, and love. This story would not have existed without you. With such warmth and gratitude, we recognize that everyone can choose where to go to share a meal with friends or celebrate a special occasion and we thank you for sharing it with us. You made the story of Fiora’s so very special. It was such a difficult decision to close Fiora’s. We opened Fiora’s to serve the community and continue the legacy of a beautiful, historic house. It has been such an honor to have been part of your lives for 13 wonderful years. We will miss our staff and all of you! But it gives us great solace to know we will remain the owners of and cherish this beautiful building for years to come. We ask for your understanding and support during this time. Thank you in advance for your prayers as we navigate the coming months. Tributes are coming in on their social media pages , offering thanks and appreciation for their time dedicated to the community. and for bringing such a loved dining establishment to the heart of downtown Geneva. The building is located at 317 S. 3rd Street in Geneva. Their website shares the start to their beautiful story: In 2007, the owners of Fiora's learned that the fate of a beautiful landmark building in historic downtown Geneva was uncertain. They purchased it. They listened to the community. They recognized the potential to create a unique place for people to come and enjoy the magic that is Geneva. Their vision was to offer casual fine dining, exquisite wine and spirits, and spectacular entertainment in a relaxed but elegant atmosphere. They set out to provide quality food, excellent service and an outstanding guest experience to all. Fiora's will be missed. DINING + CABARET GENEVA KANE

DINING | Fiora's in Geneva Closes, "Every Good Story Has an Ending"

The Community Says Goodbye to Longtime Local Favorite

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AFTERLIFE & FAT ROSIE'S NAPERVILLE PRESENT THE GRAND OPENING PARTY NAPERVILLE–The WILDEST Mexican inspired cantina and eatery in DT Naperville has moved across the street to a new location that is THREE TIMES the size of the last spot! Join in on the fun at the grand opening party you want to miss! Start Time: January 12, 5pm Music Begins: 9pm Reservations: https://tinyurl.com/y3vfkt6c www.fatrosies.com DINING + COCKTAILS NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

DINING + COCKTAILS | Fat Rosie's Naperville Grand Opening Party Planned for Mid-January

Afterlife & Fat Rosie's Naperville Present: "Fat Rosie's Naperville Grand Opening Party"

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LONDON HOUSE CHICAGO'S SEASONAL POP-UP IS SPARKLY & SO MUCH FUN How amazing is this! Enjoy beautiful skyline views and endless holiday cheer at Rudolph’s Holiday Rooftop. Located atop the LondonHouse Chicago, this seasonal pop-up includes sparkly features, festive menu items, private igloos, holiday décor, and photo back-drops. Contact rsvp@londonhouse.com to book your table. LondonHouse Chicago is also hosting LH 21 New Year's Eve celebration. Whether you're looking to jam out with special guest DJ Nabbs in the 21st floor lounge or dance the night away to DJ Rahm B in the Etoile terrace. LondonHouse offers you a front row seat to the city's annual fireworks display along with it's sweeping views. Your ticket grants you access to the 4-hour premium bar, Chicago's hottest DJ's, passed hors d'oeuvres, photo booth a complimentary Champagne toast to ring in the new year. www.londonhousechicago.com/rooftop/ DINING ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT HOLIDAY HAPPY

DINING + COCKTAILS | Rudolph's Holiday Rooftop

London House Chicago's Seasonal Pop-Up is Sparking & So Much Fun - A Not-to-Miss Holiday Experience

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LOVE TO EAT. EAT TO LIVE. CRAFTED LOCALLY. The BG Hospitality Group champions the creation of unique chef-driven, farm-to-table creative plates and an innovative casual dining atmosphere that differentiates us from the competition. Their uncompromising quality and restaurant concepts stand out from the others in the Chicago area, with a current total of six Gia Mia restaurants along with their standalone Geneva and St. Charles locations– Livia and moto imōto, respectively. The unique designs both in and outside of BG Hospitality Group’s spaces were developed in mind to help complete the overall dining experience for their guests. Dine in one of these unique, creative and well-loved restaurants today. Holiday gift cards are available. Learn more online at each of these sites: www.giamiapizzabar.com www.motoimoto.com www.liviaitalianeatery.com DINING + COCKTAILS NAPERVILLE WHEATON GENEVA

DINING + COCKTAILS | Next Stop: Farm to Table at Three Area Restaurants with Multiple Locations

Love to Eat. Eat to Live. Crafted Locally.

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