Once the holidays drew to close and the dull drums of winter set in, Tony and I ventured out to brave through the elements. We tended to stay close to home hitting some of our solid neighborhood gems like Longman & Eagle, Lula, Billy Sunday, Telegraph and Reno – it's hard to go much further when we have these amazing meals just down the street.

But on occasion we got adventurous and traveled outside our comfort zone. Here are my journal entries from our expeditions:

Eataly

WTF were we thinking attempting to conquer this mammoth on week ONE?

What happens when I drink wine and shop...

Wine - I never complain about wine.

Food - Couldn't get close enough to tell you.

Groceries - Anything looks good with enough wine.

Crowds - There is not enough wine in this world to make it enjoyable.

Boka

Gorgeous remodel, I want to move in. Food was intriguing and surprising with some of my favorite attributes in a good meal. Highlights - crudo, whole hog entree, gnuddi. But my favorite is Bill. You will be mine.

GT Fish & Oyster Brunch

Bloody Mary was perfection and paired with oysters on the half shell. Those who know me understand that’s all I need to say.

Dusek's

Well HELLO Pilsen, you little hipster enclave you. We felt right at home coming from Logan Square. Great space, love the open kitchen, fantastic selection of oysters, cured meats were delightful and so abundant. We had leftovers for days.

Parson's Chicken & Fish

Okay, so it's not new to us but brunch was and it was the perfect cure for a wee hangover. I know they are famous for their chicken but get the burger – you won't be disappointed. Also, I discovered new bloody Mary Ingredient - Maggi Sauce. Who knew? Try it! You’ll thank me.

Parsons - It's always so sad when it's over.

Trencherman

Brunch again (I'm seeing a trend here.)

Drink - Liquid Advil

Eat - The Burger. Wait another trend... Sheez! I need a new season STAT!

The bloody and burger diet is not encouraged for swimsuit season – while hard to believe, take my word for it.

My new addiction - burger, special sauce.

The Thaw: Part 2