Tomatoes are so versatile with their sweet savory taste! If you’re looking for ideas, here are some perhaps new ways to prepare tomatoes or different things to pair them with.
Pair with other fruits. Botanically, tomatoes are considered a fruit. They can be wonderful when used in fruity applications. Melons and soft fruits like peaches and plums bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes and give the fruit an acidic zing.
Sprinkle with lemon juice. Tomatoes are often dressed with different vinegars but these may overpower the tomato flavor. Try using lemon juice instead. It is a gentler acid that enhances the brightness of the tomatoes and doesn’t overshadow.
Get the right size. Size does matter both in what you buy and how you cut them. Tomatoes like cherries, grape or Sungolds are more consistently sweet as they have less water. They also maintain their shape when marinated or cooked. Keep large tomatoes chunky, fat wedges or two-inch chunks so they stay intact for that best juicy bite.
Pair tomatoes with dairy. They balance each other beautifully! When their acid and fat, plus sweet and tang meet up, it creates something wonderful. Most cheese will work, whether milky like mozzarella or burrata, or nuttier parmesan or cheddar. Who doesn’t love a simple bowl of tomato chunks and cottage cheese?
Eat with chili crisp. This delicious condiment is made from simmering chili peppers, garlic and shallots in hot oil. It retains crunchy bits to provide its signature bite. The best store brand I’ve had is “Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp”. Salt cut your tomatoes and let them sit so the juices accumulate. Drizzle with chili crisp and be ready to lick the bowl.
Grate them. Grating tomatoes brings out all their flavor while getting rid of those tough skins. Halve a large tomato through the middle. Then grate on the large holes of a box grater into a bowl. It’s delicious just on its own but it’s even better with salt and lemon juice. Cook quickly with onions and garlic softened in extra virgin olive oil, add oregano, salt and pepper for a wonderful fresh sauce that’s delicious with toasty bread or pasta.
Bake them. Baking tomatoes gets rid of moisture and makes them more savory and silkier. Bake them with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil. This drives off the water and concentrates the tomato flavor. At low temperatures, the fruit’s sugars won’t burn, they’ll caramelize and get sweeter and sticky. Delicious with crusty bread and salad!
Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago
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For years, buying a home has felt like trying to win a game designed for someone else.
Prices climbed. Mortgage rates stayed stubbornly high. Inventory was painfully tight. And in many markets, buyers had to move fast—and sometimes bid aggressively—just to get a foot in the door.
Now, the balance is starting to shift.
As summer 2026 winds down, buyers have more homes to choose from, more time to make decisions and, in many markets, more negotiating power than they’ve had in years. Active inventory has climbed to its highest level since late 2019, and nearly 80% of major U.S. metros are now classified as buyer’s markets by Redfin.
So, are we finally entering a buyer’s market?
In many places, yes. But nationally, the answer is more complicated.
The pendulum is starting to swing
The clearest sign of change is inventory.
According to Realtor.com, active inventory reached nearly 1.2 million homes in mid-August—up 3.6% from a year earlier and at its highest level since November 2019.
For buyers, that matters. More inventory means more choices, and more choices can mean less pressure to make a rushed decision.
Redfin’s data tells a similar story. During the four weeks ending August 9, roughly 1.48 million homes were actively listed nationwide, while pending sales remained near their lowest level since March.
Perhaps even more telling: sellers now outnumber buyers.
Redfin estimates there were 51.3% more sellers than buyers in July. Nearly 80% of major U.S. metros were classified as buyer’s markets.
That’s a remarkable reversal from the pandemic-era frenzy, when buyers often had to compete against multiple offers simply to get a chance.
But there’s an important catch.
More leverage doesn’t mean cheap houses
A buyer-friendly market doesn’t automatically mean home prices are about to plunge.
Redfin reported a median U.S. sale price of about $403,700 for the four weeks ending August 9, still 2.2% higher than a year earlier. In July, the national median sale price reached $407,730—the highest July level on record, according to Redfin.
So buyers may have more leverage without getting a huge discount.
That distinction is crucial.
A buyer’s market doesn’t necessarily mean sellers are desperate or homes are suddenly 20% cheaper. It can simply mean sellers have more competition for buyers’ attention.
That competition can take many forms:
A price reduction
A closing-cost credit
Seller-paid repairs
A mortgage-rate buydown
More flexibility on contingencies
Greater willingness to negotiate
In other words, the opportunity may be in the terms of the deal—not necessarily the sticker price.
Mortgage rates are still the elephant in the room
There’s another reason buyers shouldn’t celebrate too soon: financing remains expensive.
The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.65% for the week ending August 20, according to Freddie Mac. That was slightly lower than the previous week but still above the 6.58% average recorded a year earlier.
Those borrowing costs continue to keep many would-be buyers on the sidelines.
Purchase mortgage applications were down 3% from a year earlier for the week ending August 14, while Realtor.com reported that pending home sales fell 2.3% in July.
That creates an unusual dynamic.
Buyers have more power partly because fewer buyers can—or want to—participate.
And that isn’t necessarily the same thing as a broadly affordable housing market.
A home can be easier to negotiate while still being difficult to afford.
Forget the national headline. Look at your ZIP code.
Perhaps the biggest mistake is talking about “the housing market” as though every city—and every neighborhood—is experiencing the same thing.
It isn’t.
Some markets have swung decisively toward buyers. Miami, Nashville and several Texas metros currently stand out for having particularly large gaps between sellers and buyers.
Other markets remain highly competitive.
Consider San Diego County. Redfin reported that it remained a seller’s market in July, with homes spending a median of just 29 days on the market. Active listings were down 6% year over year, while the median sale price was up 2.4%.
So a national headline declaring a buyer’s market doesn’t mean a buyer shopping in a supply-constrained San Diego neighborhood can suddenly call all the shots.
The experience can vary dramatically by:
City
Neighborhood
Price range
Property type
Inventory levels
Buyer demand
The market isn’t one market anymore. It’s thousands of smaller markets behaving differently.
The “K-shaped” housing market problem
There’s another wrinkle: who is actually shopping?
Realtor.com’s latest housing research found significant differences between price tiers. Entry-level inventory and buyer engagement have both contracted as affordability pressures push more price-sensitive buyers out of the market.
Meanwhile, luxury inventory and demand have remained relatively resilient.
That creates what can look like a K-shaped housing market.
A higher-income buyer with cash reserves and flexibility may look at today’s market and see opportunity: more inventory, less competition and sellers willing to negotiate.
A first-time buyer stretching to afford a monthly payment may see something entirely different.
There may be more homes available—but that doesn’t mean there are more affordable homes.
So, is this actually a buyer’s market?
The honest answer is: increasingly, but not universally.
The pendulum has clearly moved away from the extreme seller dominance of the past few years.
Inventory is higher. Demand is softer. Buyers have more time. Sellers are adjusting expectations. And in many metros, buyers have regained meaningful negotiating power.
But prices haven’t collapsed. Mortgage rates remain elevated. And some of the country’s most desirable and supply-constrained markets continue to favor sellers.
That’s why smart buyers shouldn’t wait for a magical moment when every headline declares:
“It’s officially a buyer’s market!”
Instead, pay attention to the conditions that actually affect your purchase.
Are listings accumulating in your target neighborhood?
Are sellers cutting prices?
How long are comparable homes sitting on the market?
Are homes selling below asking price?
Are sellers offering concessions?
And perhaps most importantly: Is your monthly payment comfortable at today’s rates?
The opportunity may be leverage—not a crash
The housing market doesn’t need to crash for buyers to win.
If inventory continues to rise while demand remains restrained, buyers could gain something arguably more valuable than a dramatic drop in prices:
Choice.
Choice means you can walk away from an overpriced house.
Choice means you can negotiate instead of simply making your highest offer.
Choice means you can ask a seller to address repairs or contribute toward closing costs.
And choice means you don’t necessarily have to buy the first acceptable home that comes along.
That’s a very different market from the one buyers faced just a few years ago.
So, are we headed for a buyer’s market—or is that just wishful thinking?
It’s not wishful thinking. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all reality, either.
The national housing market is gradually tilting toward buyers. The biggest opportunities, however, are likely to belong to buyers who understand their local market, know their numbers and are willing to negotiate.
The pendulum is moving.
The question is whether it has moved far enough for you.
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This August weekend offers a variety of events all wanting to take center stage for your pleasure; however, it’s your choice! Which one will be at the top of your list?
The 13th annual Lakeview Taco Fest offers a celebration of flavor, fun, and community this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-9 p.m.) at the Southport Corridor in the Lakeview neighborhood. As one of the city’s most sought-after destinations, over 10 of Chicago’s finest eateries will compete to craft the most mouthwatering taco you’ve ever had! In addition, enjoy seasonal beers with a taco pairing as well as seasonal margaritas; two music stages featuring talented artists and performers; a thrilling spectacle of Lucha Libre wrestling – always a crowd favorite; and tons of family fun. And don’t forget to cast your vote via text for the Best Taco as tacos take center stage at this fest!
Another one of Chicago’s best neighborhood festivals offers a celebration of art, creativity, culture, and community with the West Loop Art Fest this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) on Fulton Street between Peoria and Aberdeen Streets in the heart of the West Loop. This lively open-air experience brings together the best of local and national artists and makers showcasing their signature work across a variety of mediums. Also, just beyond the main stretch, side streets come alive with the Bizarre Boutique offering an eclectic extension showcasing artisan goods and carefully sourced vintage and resale finds. It’s a fest where originality and creativity take center stage!
Perhaps you would like to get groovy at the 6th annual Galewoodstock this Saturday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) at 6950 West Bloomingdale Avenue in the Galewood neighborhood as it celebrates its largest community event of the year. This music festival brings you the best local sounds they can offer all day long which includes DJ Lecks, Studebaker John, Sayre Sounds, and others; delicious local food and beverage vendors; unique artisan and retail craft vendors; and family-friendly activities at the kids’ corner. Will your groove be center stage here?
Taking center stage in the Rogers Park neighborhood this Saturday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) is Chalk Howard Street at Bloomingdale and Sayre Avenues. Internationally renowned 3D street artists and local 2D chalk artists will transform Howard Street into a creative canvas like no other. This family-friendly street art festival also offers visitors an opportunity to buy a 4×4 pavement square for $25 with supplies to create their own chalk design. Plus, attendees can enjoy live music performances, great food and drinks from local global cuisine vendors, and a day to experience art. You will be amazed at the large optical illusions and vivid interactive drawings created!
One of the world’s largest and most accessible triathlons welcomes athletes of all ages and experience levels to Supertri Chicago this Saturday and Sunday beginning at Montrose Harbor in the Uptown neighborhood, then zooming down Lake Shore Drive, and finishing on Columbus Drive. Athletes will begin in the waters of Lake Michigan with the swimming portion which promises to be one of the most unique open water swim experiences one could have. Next is the exciting and iconic bike route through the heart of the Windy City with incredible city views. Finally, one of the triathlon’s most iconic and interesting runs takes the athletes on an amazing run that showcases some of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks. In addition, every registered athlete receives professional timing, a finisher medal, an event T-shirt, post-race food and access to the expo experiences. Taking center stage here is a celebration of determination, community, and the thrill of crossing the finish line!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
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“Summer Lovin, had me a blast. Summer Lovin, happened so fast. Met a girl, crazy for me. Met a boy, cute as can be…”
“Summer Nights” from the “Grease” soundtrack
As the kids tumble out of their beds in the morning and prepare to go back to school, I got to thinking…the ultimate back-to-school celebration that is “Grease,” the ultimate (and original) high school musical, was based on the experiences of actor/writer Jim Jacobs, a graduate of Norwood Park’s Taft High School.
While the movie “Grease” with John Travolta and the late Olivia Newton-John is the version most famous, the original play was darker, used more colorful language, and was filled with Chicago references, including Polk Brothers (a large home appliance store in Chicago), Carson’s (Carson Pirie Scott department store), the Palmer House (famed Chicago hotel), Elmer and the Elephant (Chicago-based childrens show), Jim Lounsbury (host of a sock-hop television program), and Field’s (Marshall Field’s department store, now Macy’s), per Ovrtur.com.
While the production has been adapted to fit any school, at any time, the core story of Danny Zuko, Sandy Dumbrowski (Olsson for the movie) and the T-Birds and Pink Ladies experiencing the pains of growing up remains the same. That’s kept it in the public eye for 55 years.
The Story of Grease: Norwood Park’s own Jim Jacobs
According to Wikipedia sources, when Jim Jacobs was a teenager, he would imitate playing a guitar with a broomstick. He eventually convinced his parents to pay for guitar lessons. After four lessons, he quit and decided to buy a guitar book and teach himself. From this, he found a simple chord structure: C, A minor, F, G7—later used in “Those Magic Changes” featured in Grease.
In the second half of the 1960s, he found himself at a party surrounded by stoners, disgusted by the state of rock music at the time and longing for the sounds of 1950s rock and roll, he was inspired to write a production based upon life in the early rock and roll era. His influences included Elvis, Bill Haley, Buddy Holly, Little Richard, and Jerry Lee Lewis.
“You know, man, we had drive-in movies, we had the high school dance, there was a girls’ gang at Taft, these tough chicks and they were called the Pink Ladies,” Jacobs explained to NBC5 Chicago earlier this year over the phone. “That was their gang!”
He began working with his friend, fellow doo-wop music fan Warren Casey. “Grease” was named after the 1950s United States working-class youth subculture known as greasers and set in 1959 at the fictional Rydell High School, based largely on Jacobs’s high school experiences and even used the names of some of Jacobs’s acquaintances.
The characters included the T-Birds tough-guy leader Danny Zuko, torn by his feelings for Sandy Dumbrowski (or Olsson), the wholesome new girl trying to navigate peer pressure and high school social circles; Betty Rizzo, the sharp-tongued leader of the Pink Ladies; Kenickie, Danny’s close friend and owner of a prized (though beat-up) car “Greased Lightnin’.” Finally, there were The T-Birds & Pink Ladies, including Doody, Sonny, Roger, Frenchy, Jan, and Marty.
Jacobs’ and Casey’s “Grease” premiered on February 5, 1971, at Kingston Mines nightclub, running for eight months. The show featured Chicago native and future TV/film star Marilu Henner, then a teenager, as Marty Maraschino (“as in cherry.”)
As Wikipedia sources put it, “Grease” was “a raunchy, raw, aggressive, vulgar show, “mentioning social issues such as teenage pregnancy, peer pressure, and gang violence; its themes include love, friendship, teenage rebellion, and sexual exploration during adolescence.”
The Neon Lights of Broadway
Producers Ken Waissman and Maxine Fox saw the show and made a deal to produce it Off-Broadway. The team headed to New York City to collaborate on the New York production. Subsequent productions toned down the more risqué content, and parts of the music book were replaced. Featuring future stars like Barry Bostwick as the original Danny Zuko and Adrienne Barbeau as Rizzo, Grease’s 3,388-performance run was the longest in Broadway history at the time. It was surpassed by A Chorus Line in 1983.
That said, “Grease” remains Broadway’s 18th longest-running show.
Today
“Grease” lives on today, through adaptations on TV, the two movies, in local high school and grade school productions, and countless community theatres across the world. Even Taft High School, who told NBC5 Chicago, “We were able to kickstart our program into another level, and we are one of the top musical producing high schools in CPS,” said Drama teacher Bryan Wilson. “So I guess that is part of the legacy here, thanks to Jim Jacobs.”
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
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Where, oh where, can you find a great sandwich in the Loop to take back to the office, eat during a ride on a water taxi, or to enjoy the scenery in Millennium Park or on the Riverwalk?
Look no further than Fatback + The Green Butcher, a unique combination of sandwich shop, in-house butcher counter, and European-style specialty market in the Chicago Loop.
Created by chef Charlie McKenna and The Fifty/50 Group, it functions as a desk-to-dinner destination providing chef-driven lunches, fresh rotational salads, whole rotisserie chickens, and high-quality provisions for downtown professionals, per Timeout.
Their premium artisan sandwiches are rooted in French and Italian culinary traditions—from their signature house-roasted turkey to their best-selling steak sandwich.
What sets Fatback Butcher apart from other sandwich shops is that it bridges the gap between fast-casual convenience and chef-driven quality. As their website states, “We don’t serve standard deli meat. As an artisan butcher concept, our sandwiches feature butcher-quality, premium meats—like the shaved steak in our best-selling signature hot sandwich and the house-made spicy Italian meatballs.”
On top of their “most favorite “ list is their Jambon, piled highwith Lady Edison country ham, whole-grain mustard beurre, and pickled mustard seed, served on a demi baguette. Their most popular sandwich is their Hot Steak Sandwich featuring premium shaved steak, with a savory -sweet – peppery combination of shaved steak, melted cheese, black pepper and crispy potato chips right in the sandwich, along with soubise (onion) aioli on sourdough bread. For a hearty classic, their Spicy Italian Meatball Sub is a Loop favorite.
Other sandwiches are equally intriguing. For example, HAVE YOU EVER TRIED…a Pickle Sandwich? This one comes alive with Rotisserie chicken, salami, tangy dill pickle slaw, onion, and Duke’s mayo, all on a potato bun.
A Southern favorite, the Muffaletta, follows a traditional route with layers of salami, capicola, mortadella, mozzarella, provolone, and an olive salad, on a unique sesame pizza bianca.
Their Cochon (French: pig) Sandwich combines porchetta (pork roast) with Tasso ham, French raclette cheese, pickle vin, and spicy mustard on a garlic butter bun.
Spicy Turkey is a protein-rich roasted turkey, with white cheddar, arugula, smashed cucumbers, and Calabrian aioli, on sourdough bread.
A great vegetarian option is their Mediterranean-inspired Beet Sandwich, with roasted yellow beets, za’atar labneh (Greek yogurt with EVOO,) lemon, olive oil, and arugula, served on pizza bianca.
Salads are equally fresh and unique
They also serve Green Butcher Salads, which are are naturally high in fiber and customizable with rotisserie chicken. But it isn’t just ANY chicken… as their website notes, their Regalis Ivory Rotisserie Chicken is a “lean protein powerhouse!” Whether ordered plain or with lemon pepper, it’s the perfect clean, satisfying lunch for those focused on wellness, high-protein goals, or a GLP-1 companion diet.
Take, for example, their Tahini Caesar Salad with gem lettuce, tahini dressing, breadcrumbs, and sesame dukkah (sesame crunch). Or, their Grain Salad, with quinoa, farro, wild rice, sunflower seeds, sweet potato, fromage blanc, and pomegranate. Farm Lettuces Salad has leafy greens, candied pecans, manchego cheese, and bourbon cherries (yum!)
Fatback + The Green Butcher is located at 176 W. Wacker Drive. They also cater and deliver to local businesses. Their hours are Monday-Friday, from 10am-4pm. For orders, call (312) 448-8288 or for catering: (312) 256-2522. For more information, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
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Too much basil? Believe it or not, that can be a good thing! Sometimes herbs in a garden can go a little crazy and you can only use so much and give so much away. Here are a few ways to extend the life of and make more use of that delicious, fresh basil.
Pesto. Of course, pesto is number one on the list. It is so delicious on pasta hot or cold, but it can be added to cream sauces, mayonnaise or aioli, or vinaigrettes to amp up flavor. There are different variations to try too. Add other leafy greens like spinach, kale or arugula to boost flavor and nutrients. Try other nuts beyond pine nuts. Cashews, walnuts, pistachios, or blanched almonds are good as well as seeds like pumpkin, pepitas or sunflower seeds. Freeze in ice cube trays to use later.
Basil grated cheese. This is a great addition to cooked veggies, grilled chicken, seafood and of course pasta. Combine equal parts of hard cheese like pecorino, parmesan or aged cheddar and basil in a food processor. Process until it resembles sand. It adds freshness and summer flavor to anything. Store for up to five days in the fridge.
Basil salt. It lasts for months and adds fresh salty basil flavor to any dish. Add equal parts basil and salt to a food processor and process until texture is fine. Spread evenly onto a parchment paper lined sheet pan. Dehydrate in a 225-degree oven for 20-25 minutes. Cool and store in a glass jar in a dry place
Basil syrup. Use it as a great addition to cocktails like professional mixologists everywhere! It can also add some zest to coffee or tea drinks at home, and it really bumps up your lemonade recipe. Combine one cup of sugar and water in a saucepan, add one cup of basil leaves. Simmer on low heat until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Remove basil leaves and store syrup in a jar in the fridge.
Bonus pro tip: freeze basil like you do pesto. Blend basil leaves in a blender with good extra virgin olive oil till pureed. Don’t over blend as the oil can turn bitter. Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Store frozen cubes in a freezer bag for up to six months. Add a basil cube to stews, soup, sauces or veggies. Anywhere you need a burst of fresh flavor!
Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago
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Every busy household has one: the place where backpacks land, keys disappear, permission slips get buried, and someone inevitably asks, “Did anyone see my…?”
Instead of fighting the daily chaos, give it a home.
A family command center doesn’t have to be elaborate or take up an entire wall. In fact, one of the best ones may fit into a surprisingly small corner. With a few intentional features, an otherwise overlooked area can become the organizational hub that keeps everyone moving in the same direction.
Start With the Right Spot
The perfect command center is usually somewhere you naturally pass every day.
A wall near the garage entry, kitchen, mudroom, laundry room, or main hallway can work beautifully. The key is convenience. If family members have to walk across the house to use it, there’s a good chance it won’t stay organized for long.
Look for an unused stretch of wall, the side of a cabinet, or even a small nook that could be put to better use.
Think high traffic, low square footage.
Give Everything a Job
The magic of a command center isn’t necessarily how it looks—it’s how well it works.
Give the essentials a designated place. Hooks can hold keys, backpacks, and everyday bags. A small shelf can collect mail and paperwork. Baskets can corral shoes, accessories, or items that need to leave the house.
You don’t need a complicated storage system. The goal is simply to make it easier to put things away than to leave them lying around.
When everything has a home, everyone knows where to find it.
Add a Calendar Everyone Can See
A shared calendar can be one of the most useful additions to a family command center.
Whether you use a traditional wall calendar, a dry-erase board, or a digital display, the idea is the same: make the family’s schedule visible.
School activities, appointments, sports practices, work commitments, birthdays, and weekend plans can all have a place.
It won’t eliminate scheduling conflicts—but it might help you discover them before Saturday morning.
Build a Launch Pad for Tomorrow
One of the smartest uses for a command center is helping the family prepare for the next day before the current one is over.
Create a small area where tomorrow’s essentials can be staged. Backpacks can be packed, permission slips can be placed where they’ll be seen, library books can be gathered, and anything that needs to leave the house can be put in one designated spot.
You can even add individual bins or baskets for each family member.
The idea is simple: prepare tonight so tomorrow morning requires fewer decisions.
That five-minute habit can make a surprisingly big difference when everyone is trying to get out the door at the same time.
Don’t Forget the Little Things
A command center becomes even more useful when it handles the small things that tend to create big headaches.
Consider adding a spot for:
Incoming and outgoing mail
School papers and permission slips
Shopping lists
Reusable grocery bags
Spare keys
Chargers
Sunglasses
Dog leashes
Items that need to be returned or taken somewhere
The goal isn’t to create another place where clutter accumulates. It’s to create a temporary holding area with a purpose.
Make It Look Like It Belongs There
Organization doesn’t have to look utilitarian.
Choose materials and finishes that complement the rest of your home. A simple wood shelf, attractive baskets, framed calendar, or a few coordinated hooks can make the command center feel like part of the design rather than an afterthought.
If it’s located in a visible area, consider treating it like any other decorative feature in the room.
The best organizational systems are the ones you don’t mind looking at.
Keep It Manageable
Here’s the part that’s easy to overlook: a command center needs its own reset.
Once a week, spend five minutes clearing old papers, returning misplaced items, updating the calendar, and putting things back where they belong.
That’s it.
You don’t need to reorganize the entire system every Sunday. A quick reset keeps the command center from becoming the very clutter problem it was designed to solve.
Small Space, Big Difference
A family command center won’t magically make a busy household less busy. But it can eliminate some of the little points of friction that make everyday life feel more chaotic than it needs to be.
And that’s really the beauty of good home organization.
You don’t always need more room. Sometimes you simply need to make better use of the room you already have.
A few hooks. A shelf. A calendar. A little bit of intention.
Sometimes, that’s all it takes to turn one forgotten corner into one of the hardest-working spots in the house.
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They’re Back, and I’m not referring to those pesky red birds from St. Louis! Here’s your packed Chicago lineup for this weekend’s enjoyment.
Drawing an audience of over one million to Chicago’s stunning lakefront, the Chicago Air & Water Show brings its summer spectacle with astonishing stunts performed by skilled pilots above Lake Michigan’s waters this Saturday and Sunday (10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.). As usual, the show can be viewed from its focal point at North Avenue Beach and along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street. Plus, the Thunderbirds are back this year to demonstrate their incredible capabilities of the Air Force’s premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon! Other performers include the United States Army Parachute Team best known as the Golden Knights along with various military and civilian performers which also includes the Chicago Police Department Helicopters and the Chicago Fire Department Air and Sea Rescue. It’s the largest FREE show of its kind in the United States, an iconic Chicago event since 1959, and definately not to be missed!
One of Chicago’s most historic neighborhoods is hosting their Taylor Street Little Italy Festa this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) on Taylor Street between Ashland Avenue and Throop Street in the Little Italy neighborhood. Guests will be able to sample authentic Italian dishes, gelato, street food, and special menus from the neighborhood’s award-winning favorite restaurants. In addition, this Festa will feature several stages of music and entertainment from national and local acts; quality merchandise from Italy; and various activities which include the meatball and pizza eating contests, bocce tournaments, and more. Come celebrate the great history and rich culture of this neighborhood, and of course, its food!
Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate at Chicago’s 11th annual Sangria Festival this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) at its new location near Division Street and Washtenaw Avenue in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. Enjoy new sangria flavor blends and sangria slushies hand-crafted by local bartenders and mixologists as well as Latin-inspired food at various pop-up food stations. Plus, activities include live music, dancing, Goya Foods’ 90th anniversary cooking demonstrations, and artisan vendors. It’s a celebration like no other where Sangria takes center stage!
One of Chicago’s most vibrant and exciting art festivals returns for its sixth year with the Printer’s Row Art Fest this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) on South Dearborn Street from Polk to Harrison Streets in the South Loop. Discover the works of 100 talented, juried artists from across the country showcasing a wide variety of art forms. Plus, the streets will come alive with live music while the local popular restaurants, cafes, and bars serve up plenty of their local flavor for you to enjoy in between your art browsing’s. It’s simply all about an open-air celebration of creativity!
For my diehard sports enthusiasts (including me), here’s who’s in town this weekend –
The Chicago Cubs will be hosting the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday (1:20 p.m.) and Sunday (2:15 p.m.) at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.
The Chicago Bears are hosting the Cleveland Browns for their first NFL Preseason game this Saturday (12 p.m.) at Soldier Field (1410 Special Olympics Dr.) in the South Loop.
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
https://www.deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2026/08/article-weekend-081426.jpg8541280adminhttps://deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2015/09/dean-moss-logo.pngadmin2026-08-14 13:48:532026-08-14 13:48:55THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – They’re Back!
Recently, I was privileged to witness the world -renowned Savannah Bananas 🍌 at Wrigley Field. Before the game, my friends and I attended a raucous pre-game party, complete with a Banana parade, live music, and lots of sideline entertainment outside Wrigley at Gallagher Way, 3635 N Clark Street.Surrounding us were literally tens of thousands of families…children, parents, teens and adults, sharing a joyous moment together.
That’s how a community should be, I thought. Excited but respectful. Having fun. Experiencing life together.
It’s not just for Baseball any more…
Gallagher Way today is a 2-acre, open-air entertainment plaza adjacent to Wrigley Field in Chicago. Originally a coal yard and surface parking lots, the space opened as “The Park at Wrigley” in 2017 before being renamed in April 2018 through a multi-year naming rights partnership with global insurance firm Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Most importantly, Gallagher Way has turned the neighborhood around Wrigley Field into a year-round community gathering spot for all manner of entertainment and events besides baseball Today, it’s home to concerts, night markets, early morning yoga classes, outdoor movies, wine tastings, and in the winter, holiday movies, Winterland at Gallagher Way, ice skating and the Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville (not yet announced, but expected. )
Wrigleyville History
Roughly bounded by Grace Street or Irving Park Road to the north, Sheffield Avenue to the east, Addison Street to the south, and Racine Avenue or Clark Street to the west, Wrigleyville began as Swedish and German farmland in the 1800’s. Later on, according to theSouthport Corridor, the land where Wrigley Field itself stands was never itself a coal yard, but it was actually surrounded by coal yards, as well as freight rail lines and lumber yards, at the turn of the century and well into its history. And even earlier, the site of the ballpark itself was home to a Lutheran seminary, which is where Seminary Avenue got its name.
The Chicago Lutheran Theological Seminary opened in 1891. Despite the fact that there was already one coal yard right across the street, the Lutheran minister who built the seminary thought it would be a peaceful place for his students’ quiet contemplation. But soon, coal and lumber yards took over much of the area, attracted by the Chicago and Evanston railroad (later the Milwaukee Road). The young seminarians complained of the coal yard’s “smoke, dust, grime, soot, dirt, foul gases; railroading by night and day; whistles, ding-donging of bells late and early and in between times.
The seminary abandoned the site and moved to Maywood in 1910.
That same year, Federal League founder and Chicago Federals (later named the Chicago Whales) ball-club owner Charles Weeghman decided to build his team’s new ballpark at Clark and Addison.
For much of the 20th century as Wrigley Field grew around it, the west side of Clark Street functioned primarily as industrial lots, tracks, and later surface parking, along with a burgeoning bar scene from Belmont Avenue to Irving Park Road.
When the Ricketts family bought the team from the Chicago Tribune Company, they included ‘The Park at Wrigley’ as part of its 1060 (renovation) Project, and Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. bought the naming rights. By 2018, Gallagher Way turned the blocks around Wrigley Field into a year-round destination.
The space incorporates historic team statues (like Ernie Banks, Ron Santo, and Ryne Sandberg) and expanded in July 2026 with the addition of “Champions Gate,” an archway monument honoring the Cubs’ World Series championship teams.
Today: Free Children’s Programming on Tuesday mornings
Dance along with the Wiggleworms and the Old Town School of Folk Music on Tuesdays at 10 am. for kid-friendly live music, movement, Sloan Pop-Jets and more! Following the music, bring a blanket and hang out on the greenspace to watch a kid-friendly movie on the Gallagher Way videoboard. Movies start at 11 a.m.
Upcoming shows include: Lenny Marsh & Mars Carlton and the movie ‘Wreck it Ralph’ on August 18; Little Miss Ann & Lenny Marsh and the movie ‘Surf’s Up’ onAugust 25; and Will Flancher & Gloria Leung and the movie ‘Luca’ on September 1.
Going to the Dogs on Friday, August 28!
On Friday, August 28, bring your pup and friends for a post Cubs game paw-ty at Gallagher Way! Stop by from 6pm to 10pm and enjoy pet portraits, adoptable puppies from Chicago Canine Rescue, giveaways and photo opportunities.
Note: Dogs attending the event with their owners are required to have updated vaccinations and to be on a leash. Owners are responsible for their dogs and legally responsible for any injuries caused by their dogs. Owner’s must immediately clean up after their dogs.
For more information about all of Gallagher Way’s year-round events, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
https://www.deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2026/08/article-neighborhood-081326.jpg8541280adminhttps://deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2015/09/dean-moss-logo.pngadmin2026-08-13 13:34:342026-08-13 13:34:36Neighborhood News: From coal yard to entertainment center, Wrigleyville’s Gallagher Way mirrors neighborhood transformation
“I want my baby back baby back baby back baby back baby back ribs!”
Old-time commercial for Chili’s restaurants
When I lived in Galewood, one of our favorite places for ribs was Gale Street Inn, located a few miles away on the Northwest Side’s Jefferson Park. What they did with ribs…tender, slow-cooked ribs glazed in Gale Street Inn’s own house BBQ sauce…were some of the best we’ve ever tasted. And I’ve been to Memphis and St. Louis, which are also renowned for their barbecue!
History
As the Chicago Bar Project notes, George Cholies opened Gale Street in January 1963, after being forced to abandon his sandwich shop & tavern across the street due to the construction of the Jefferson Park Blue Line El stop and bus terminal. Cholies sold Gale Street Inn in 1984 to the Karzas family. Both families maintained the quality of their food, taking pride in their service and winning numerous local and national awards.
However, as Eater recounts, in 2025, the 62-year-old spot closed in June. At the time, owner George Karzas cited staffing shortages as the primary reason for the shutter. Enter Paulo Villabona, a longtime restaurant veteran and neighborhood resident, who purchased the business and officially took ownership on November 1. Dinner service reopened in December.
“To me, buying the restaurant is all about the community,” he told WGN News,per Eater. “Our goal is to keep making amazing food, allow the phenomenal staff to continue to shine, and ultimately keep this pillar of the community alive for another 60 years.”
Not only does the reopened restaurant feature classic ribs and steak, they also feature live entertainment, including weekend French Gypsy jazz and acoustic performances.
And now, the food…
Gale Street Inn has preserved its tavern-like atmosphere and community ambience. In addition they’ve expanded their offerings to nclude weekend brunch, Thursday and Friday lunch service, and early/late-night happy hours.
I long for their Parker Rolls, served warm and fluffy, with honey-chive butter. They carry a separate charge but are worth every penny, as are their tangy Deviled Eggs, with crispy prosciutto and fried onion. Fried Calamari has another tangy twist of lemon and pepper tempura and giardiniera aioli. Potato Skins are made with candied bacon, truffle-gruyere fondue and scallion.
Before we get to the ribs, it should be noted that the Gale Street Inn has something for everyone. Take the Tangy Fry Chickie, a sandwich made with a tender chicken thigh, with sweet-savory-spicy honey-sambal sauce, and served with pickles and house slaw. It can pack a punch!
If a full slab of ribs seem too much, try instead a Rib Sandwich, every bit as tasty and packed with boneless ribs, pickled onions, BBQ sauce, and pickles on a brioche bun, served with coleslaw.
Chicago’s Finest Ribs come in full or half-rack. They are to be savored, with meat just slipping off the bone, dripping with their famous tangy Gale Stteet sauce. While fries and other sides are available for an upcharge, the ribs come with their own coleslaw.
Other steakhouse options include a juicy 12oz New York Steak served with a baked potatoand demi-glace. Steak Frites is a 10 ounce grilled Hanger steak grilled, served over red wine reduction and topped with a cilantro chimichurri. Additionally, the steak is accompanied by harissa marinade, whipped ricotta, harissa yogurt, chilled couscous salad, crispy chickpeas, pickled onions, and shoestring fries.
Pescatarian options include Fish ‘n’ Chips, avodka- battered cod and creamy homemade tartar sauce. Walleye Filet has Calabrian chili-butter, potato and caramelized onion puree, with sautéed spinach and fried leeks.
You can add a four-ounce lobster for an upcharge to make it a Surf & Turf.
As we say at Dean’s Team Chicago, save room for dessert! Banana Bread Pudding is served à la mode. The popular Dubai-Style Chocolate Pistachio Cake is another popular option, as is their Basque Cheesecake is served with fresh berries and raspberry sauce.
Mine is not the only positive review:
“NEW OWNER SAME GREAT QUALITY. So excited children could once again join the meal. The updates to the place are gorgeous very chic and still very cool supper club vibes. It was great to see Paulo brought back people who had been working their for years. The food was phenomenal service impeccable. Will be back soon!”
“It looks like Gale Street in his back and better than ever! Ribs were delicious. The ambience is beautiful in the service couldn’t be better. The only thing I wasn’t a fan about was the sautéed spinach. There was no garlic. Maybe that’s just my personal preference I prefer more garlic or at least some garlic. Other than that, A+ will definitely be going back again!”
Gale Street Inn is located at 4914 N. Milwaukee Avenue. They are open Monday from 4pm–10pm, Wednesday, 4pm–11pm, Thursday from 11am–11pm, with a last seating at 8:45 PM. Friday, they are open 11am–12am. Last seating at 9:45pm. Saturday from 10:30am–12am, with a last seating at 9:45pm. Sunday, from 10:30am–10pm. Last seating at 8:45pm. They are closed on Tuesday. For reservations, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
https://www.deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2026/08/article-review-081226.jpg8541280adminhttps://deanteamchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/84/2015/09/dean-moss-logo.pngadmin2026-08-12 13:31:142026-08-12 13:31:15Restaurant Review: A second act for Jefferson Park ‘s Gale Street Inn; supper-club vibes and great ribs!
