Chicago Foodies

Nacional 27 Prix Fixe for $27

Though the recession is probably over at this point, good deals still abound for those still willing to eat out at restaurants, particularly at off-peak hours. At Nacional 27, I stumbled across a $27 prix fixe dinner that looked worth investigation, and included 3 courses plus wine or sangria. The catch is that it is available from 5-6:30 pm every day, and your party needs to be seated by 6:15 pm. No matter, I can eat at pretty much any hour of the day, and if anyone can make the early-bird special sexy, it's Nacional 27.

If you are unfamiliar with Nacional 27, it is named for the 27 Latin American countries south of the border. Their mission is to take traditional Latin dishes and serve them with a twist. This means your steak may be covered in a Malbec reduction, and your guacamole served with taro chips. Popular Chicago mixologist Adam Seger helms the bar offerings, and regularly teaches classes featuring his cocktail recipes. The restaurant also serves as a part-time dance hall, with complimentary lessons, salsa competitions and DJs spinning Latin rhythms after 11 pm on weekends. This is contemporary Latin with a flair for theatrics.

Ribfest Chicago - Friday the 12th-14th

From their website:

`Averaging 65,000 pounds of ribs and featuring 25 bands in 25 hours, more than 50,000 people are expected to kick­off summer at the three­-day long Ribfest Chicago. Proceeds of the festival are utilized to fund community activities, area greening efforts and local outreach programs such as the innovative School Grant Program.