This blog entry was contributed by: Mark Dollard, Realtor. Visit his blog at dollardnsense.com. He can be reached at mark.dollard@gmail.com.
Hot Drinks
For the Do-It-Yourselfer, how about taking a stroll over to Olivia’s Market, 2014 W. Wabansia Ave., and getting some fixin’s together for some hot spiced wine punch (known as Glühwein or Gløgg)? It’s one of the most popular ways to stay warm in Nordic lands.
Olivia’s has a great selection of inexpensive wines from independent producers and a very well-thought-out liquor selection to go along with all your grocery needs.
Here are links to some recipes:
1. For the beginner, check out this one.
2. A good recipe that’s more involved, and stronger.
Comfort Food
Nothing warms up the body and soul like some good old comfort food. Of course, the neighborhood has some excellent restaurants. If your version of comfort food is more along the lines of spicy and Asian, Cumin, 1414 N. Milwaukee Ave., is a great option. Last year, they made the Michelin Bib Gourmand List (for places with gourmet-quality food at affordable prices) and make great steamy curries. The lunch buffet is a steal. For more English-style choices, you can stop at Pint, 1547 N. Milwaukee Ave., for some Shepard’s Pie, Chicken Pot Pie or Fish and Chips. All are hearty cold-killing options. Classic soul-food comfort (and an extensive belly-warming whiskey selection) can be found at The Southern, 1840 W. North Ave. They even serve seasonally appropriate selections like Winter Root Vegetables.
Dessert
If you need a hot dessert to warm you up, you would be hard pressed to find anywhere in the world better than Hot Chocolate, 1747 N. Damen Ave. The namesake beverages are simply divine. Chef Mindy Segal has been nominated for the James Beard Award (it’s a big deal, trust me) for 5 years in a row, and that’s not by accident.
