Matthias Merges, Chef & Owner of Hyde Park's A10 in Chicago

Hello! We visit A10 in Hyde Park, JAM in Logan Square, and Taste of Thai Town in Albany Park, and I was excited to talk with Chef Matthias Merges, who gained recognition as former executive chef at Charlie Trotter’s and has since become an award-winning restauranteur in his own right. Matthias adhered to and promoted farm-to-table principles long before they became ubiquitous in the industry. We chatted about opening his first restaurant on Chicago’s South Side and he shared recipes that are sure to take your Thanksgiving entertaining from simple to spectacular. 

Nasi Goreng at de Quay

Hey Chicago! What an exciting week it has been for us. Go Cubbies! In this week’s episode, we visit de Quay in Lincoln Park – on the only Dutch-Indonesian restaurant in Chicago. I spoke to David de Quay, executive chef and owner of de Quay, to learn more about what he’s cooking up at his spot and some tips for navigating the menu. And General Manager and Wine director Terry McNeese and Beverage Director Noel Catrambone chime in with some must-try beverage recommendations.

Chef de Cuisine Erling Wu Bower, Nico Osteria

Hello! This week, I’m talking seafood with Nico Osteria’s Chef de Cuisine Bower (and 2 time James Beard nominee) Erling Wu-Bower, who gives us some tips on sourcing, purchasing, and preparing seafood. And since wine is one of the most important elements of a great meal, I asked Wine Director Bret Heiar to provide some guidance on pairing vino and seafood.

Wine and Cheese Pairings, Bar Pastoral

Hello everyone!

Are you ready to start the 16^th season of Check, Please!? I am! This is an exciting season – jam-packed with more amazing finds recommended by all of you – as well as a few new elements. This season, right here on our website at wttw.com/checkplease, our guests will give confessional-style interviews before and after shooting their episode. How fun will this be to peek behind the curtains!

Amanda Puck and Catherine De Orio at James Beard Taste America

Hello everyone! As we wrapped up our 15th season, we asked top chefs from around the city to pick their favorite places to dine out in Chicago – and who doesn’t want to know that? Watch the episode if you haven’t already!