Hachi's Kitchen

2521 N California Ave
Chicago, IL 60686
(773) 276-8080
www.hachiskitchen.com

So I'm addicted. Just ask anyone who answers the phone. They know who I am and exactly what I want. I was ashamed at first to be calling so often, but I got over it. I tried a number of rolls, but always go back to my favorites - Spicy White Tuna Crunch and Halloween Maki. Sometimes I throw in the Tempura Udon. It's a beautiful restaurant, but I've never eaten there. I either pick up or have it delivered. For my sake just give it a try and I know you'll like it. I'm not sure what I would do if they closed down. Did anyone say withdrawal?

Chalkboard

4343 N. Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60689
(773) 477-7144

Chalkboard was a great experience except for taking 20 minutes to find a parking space. However, Angela from the restaurant was nice enough to call and warn me that there was a street fair nearby so extra points for consideration. The whole menu was a little confusing with some items in a really menu and some on the chalkboard and some kind of on both. We started with the antipasto which consisted of some tiny bites of prosciutto and another meat (?), watermelon, the best almonds I ever tried, and a big hunk of blue cheese which was incredible. It was an excellent starter. My friend had the pork tenderloin which was perfectly cooked and I had the halibut with garlic greens, hen of the wood mushrooms and the best tasting heirloom tomatoes. The fish was very tasty, but needed more salt for my taste. For dessert, my friend had the cherry pie a la mode and I had the bread pudding du jour which was blueberry in a vanilla infused sauce with vanilla ice cream. Both desserts were good, but the bread pudding was my favorite. The sign of a good restaurant for me - would I go back - and I would. How could I forget the Mac N Cheese. OMG it was heaven. Of course it is extremely rich so be sure to share.