The Chicago Blackhawks are currently looking for a new head coach. Derek King replaced Jeremy Colliton as the interim head coach in 2021-22 and did okay. However, he didn’t do anything that makes you know for a fact that he is the guy going forward on a full-time basis.

He is very much going to be in the mix for the job but he probably isn’t the best option available to him. There are some really good coaches available or could be available after the season is over. There is one coach, however, that should get no consideration whatsoever.

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CHICAGO — The Cubs are getting healthier on the mound as they expect to activate righty Marcus Stroman from the COVID-19 injured list and start him against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday night.

Closer David Robertson, meanwhile, will return Wednesday night against the Pittsburgh Pirates after being activated off COVID IL. He had been out since May 9.

Stroman, 31, last pitched on May 1, having thrown his best game of the season before being scratched for his next start.

“We’ve missed him,” manager David Ross said Wednesday afternoon. “That’s for sure. Guys have picked up the slack. It will be nice to get him back. He was throwing the ball as good as anyone before he went down. This is a version of our rotation we felt it would look like coming out of spring training.”

The Cubs just recently had Wade Miley make his season debut — he threw seven shutout innings Monday — while youngsters Justin Steele and Keegan Thompson have pitched well for the team so far.

Veteran righty Kyle Hendricks struggled early but has produced two good starts in a row as the pitching staff compiled a league best 1.43 ERA over the past week. Now, they’re getting a big offseason addition back into the rotation.

“You never know until you know,” Ross said of activating players from the COVID injured list. “The expectations are one thing but actually getting clearance from everyone is … We hope for the best, but it doesn’t always work out.”

Stroman is 1-3 with a 5.13 ERA in five starts this year after signing a three-year, $71 million deal with the Cubs during the winter. He threw seven shutout innings against the Milwaukee Brewers in his last outing before going on the injured list.

Robertson is 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA with 5 saves for the Cubs this season.

Right-hander Mark Leiter Jr. was sent down to Triple-A Iowa with Robertson’s activation.

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SAN FRANCISCO — For the second time this postseason, the NBA has fined the Dallas Mavericks for violating rules regarding bench decorum.

The league office announced a $50,000 fine on Wednesday for violations that occurred during Sunday’s 123-90 Game 7 rout of the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center.

A statement from the league office cited multiple occasions that several players and a member of the coaching staff “stood away from the team bench, and were on or encroaching upon the playing court” during the victory.

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The Mavs were also fined $25,000 on May 6 for similar violations that occurred during their Game 2 loss to the Suns. Dallas considers team chemistry an essential ingredient of their success, and the Mavs made it clear at the time that they had no intention of toning down the enthusiasm from two-way player Theo Pinson, injured guard Tim Hardaway Jr. and the rest of the bench.

“The league is worried about the wrong thing,” coach Jason Kidd said after the first fine was assessed. “You have millionaires cheering on other millionaires. Doesn’t happen in this society. And the enthusiasm of the game, for a teammate to cheer on another teammate is special. And I think sometimes we’re focused on the wrong thing. And so when you look at people who make a lot of money cheering on their teammates or their employees, that’s what sport is all about. And so for us to get fined, that’s cool. It’s going to another good cause, charity. But again, we’re looking at the wrong thing.”

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Fluffy, warm, and comforting, waffles are perfect any time of the day. Traditionally, they’re made with a few simple ingredients like flour, sugar, milk, and eggs. But today, many many restaurants have taken a spin to include fresh or macerated fruit, savory meats like bacon or sausage, or the superior combination with fried chicken. So, whether you’re craving carbs or want the classic syrup-soaked delicacy, check out these great places for the best waffles in Chicago. 

Image Credit: Chicago’s Home of Chicken and Waffles

3947 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60653

Peanut butter and jelly, french fries and ketchup, and… fried chicken and waffles! The love of Soul Food and home-cooked meal behind Chicago’s Home of Chicken and Waffles created the best chicken and waffles in town. Drenched in syrup, your sweet tooth will be thanking you and you’ll be left planning your next trip. Looking to step out of the box a little? Try out their catfish and waffles for a  meal packed with flavor!

2845 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60618

Looking for a fluffy waffle with a twist of creativity? Churro Waffle in Irving Park East brings you classic waffles with various concoctions and toppings. Build your own waffle and explore the endless possibilities! Try the Oreo waffle topped with crumbled cookies, caramel sauce, and cookies & cream ice cream. Or, if you prefer more savory breakfasts, check out the chorizo waffle loaded with chorizo, onion, jalapeño, eggs, and tomatillo sauce. Finally, give the signature churro waffle a shot. A warm, fresh cooked waffle piled high with cinnamon, sugar, caramel sauce, and creamy sea salt caramel ice cream. There is no better brunch in Chicago than this!

955 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 

Need to take your waffle on the go? That’s when you come to Eiffel Waffle! Loaded with ice cream, fruit, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and other fun toppings, you can take your dessert style waffle with you wherever, because it comes in a hand held wrap! Once you try every topping combination, be sure to try their other sweets like slushies, milkshakes, and mini Eiffels. With three locations across the Chicagoland area (Lincoln Park, Downers Grove, and Bolingbrook) you can find your new favorite treat whether you’re in the city or the suburbs. 

2748 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

They say it’s all in the name, and at Batter and Berries, you are set with all your batter and berry needs. Started in 2012 by Dr. Tanya and Craig Robinson, Batter and Berries decided to bring an “eclectic touch” to Chicago’s breakfast scene by serving up world-class french toast, pancakes, and waffles. The chef, Ken Polk, has 25+ years of culinary experience; some of the delicious plates he whips up include blueberry, apple-cinnamon, and banana-walnut waffles. If you’re looking for a fresh take on a classic, try Batter & Berries’ “Cluck-n-Gaufre”: a sweet potato waffle stuffed with fried chicken and drizzled with a hot nutmeg sauce.

1400 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

Sweet or savory? Who says you have to choose! At Chicago Waffles, the waffle menu itself is so expansive that you’ll definitely have to keep coming back for more to try one of each. From green tea waffles to a waffle sandwich, you won’t be able to get enough of the different ways to enjoy this breakfast staple. With two locations in Chicago, Chicago Waffles, aptly named, is the perfect, family-friendly place to spend your Saturday morning. For the kids in your life, bring them to a place where they can have fun with their food, and for the adults, the full coffee menu should come in handy when the sugar-rush kicks in. 

2294 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Nothing feels better than a restaurant that reminds you of home. Start your day with the steaming coffee and delicious waffles at Cozy Corner Restaurant and Pancake House on Milwaukee Ave, and say goodbye to Monday blues. Try the strawberry waffle or the classic mouthwatering Belgium waffle, and see why this place is called “cozy.” This quaint breakfast joint also takes pride in making sure that diversity, community, and culture are celebrated within their walls as well as in the area they serve. 

Featured Image Credit: Eiffel Waffle

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Korean BBQ always impresses with its spicy and sweet flavors, high-quality selection of meats, and playful array of sides (banchan) — all grilled up right in front of you! While the city contains several notable joints for good Korean BBQ, you can also find some of the best Korean BBQ restaurants in the Northwest suburbs (which many call New Koreatown). From traditional Korean dishes to Asian fusion to all-you-can-eat establishments, keep reading to discover where to get authentic Korean BBQ in Chicago.

PS: don’t forget to check out the best Asian foods in Chicago if you’re down to explore!

Image Credit: Cho Sun Ok

4200 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

If you’re looking for a dependable spot for some Korean BBQ, Cho Sun Ok is the place to go. A staple of the Lincoln Square neighborhood since 1980, Cho Sun Ok offers a wide selection of prime meats and signature sauces to grill up on their tabletop burners. The classic, wood-paneled interior emulates a traditional Korean establishment with a focus on food. Before you go, just know that the popular restaurant is BYOB only and does not accept reservations.

3333 N Kimball Ave., Chicago, IL 60618

Tucked behind the aisles of Joong Boo Market in Avondale is a hidden gem counter-service restaurant called the Snack Corner. At this simple eatery, you’ll find delicious, authentic Korean BBQ specialties to pick up and take home during your weekly shopping trip. 

2568 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

This Lincoln Park restaurant brings a fresh West coast sensibility to Chicago. Their Asian fusion dishes blend a variety of flavors and styles into a delectable array of street food options. Step up to the counter and order Korean BBQ tacos, stuffed with seafood and meats such as sesame-chili shrimp and kalbi. For the perfect pairing, grab a side of kimchi fries with colorful toppings and tasty seasonings.

1747 W Golf Rd, Mt Prospect, IL 60056

Mr. Kimchi is one of the few remaining all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ spots left in the Chicagoland area. Although the drive out to the Mt. Prospect suburb may be lengthy, their brisket and bulgogi meats marinated in soy sauce, sugar, and garlic make the drive worth every minute.

6240 N California Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

Distinguished by its quality meats and service, Gogi provides a delightful culinary experience for Korean BBQ lovers across Chicago. The Uptown restaurant gained the respect of Chicagoans from their famous kalbi, its flavor magnified by the charcoal grills they’re cooked upon. If you’re new to Korean BBQ, Gogi is a great place to start, as the servers are happy to help you prepare and grill the meat every step of the way.

Image Credit: Yelp

9020 W Golf Rd, Niles, IL 60714

Another all-you-can-eat establishment, BBQ Garden is known for its fresh meat, like bulgogi and miso pork belly, and their large banchan buffet, featuring sides like pickled vegetables and potato salad. Take a road trip out to this northern suburb for a family dinner – their spacious tables and buffet options make it a great option for large groups.

5247 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

This unassuming Korean BBQ joint might be tucked away in a strip mall, but for what it lacks in location, it makes up for with an extensive menu and powerful flavors. With an abundant array of banchan and special deals for groups of 5 people or more, San Soo Gab San is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Visit San Soo Gab San at one of their locations in Lincoln Square or Morton Grove.

Image Credit: Yelp

3420 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook, IL 60062

This Korean BBQ in Glenview keeps it simple with a focus on high-quality meats. Try their famous thinly sliced pork belly (the meaning of samgyubsal in their name), which the servers help to grill at your table. Dip the meat in sesame oil or jang sauce and place it into a lettuce wrap with scallions or a different topping. Grab a soup or noodle dish to compliment your grilled meat – the true star of the show.

Featured Image Credit: Gogi

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You can’t celebrate culture without trying the authentic fares. So, as you learn about AAPI heritage in the Windy City, do yourself a favor and check out the best Asian food in Chicago to make your celebration complete!

110 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654

Speaking of the best Asian food in Chicago, you’ve got to mention Sunda. Here, traditional Asian cuisine meets its modern counterparts and together brings you the most unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re here for fresh sushi and sashimi, or looking to dive into hot appetizers and new Asia entrees, you’ll fall in love with something on the menu. Don’t forget to try their spring cocktails too! They’re also running an AAPI month special, the menu includes:

VIETNAM: “CHAO TOM”GRILLED SUGAR CANE SHRIMP – shrimp mousse, sugar cane, rice noodles, lettuce, fresh herbs, nuoc cham
JAPAN: “GOMAE MAKI” – shrimp tempura, spinach, asparagus, cucumber, rayu chili oil, sesame soy
THE PHILIPPINES: CEBU LECHON – roasted lemongrass pork, foie gras gravy
CHINA: DAN DAN NOODLES – szechuan spiced beef, bamboo shoots, watercress, radish, wheat noodles
THAILAND: MANGO STICKY RICE – sweet rice pudding, champagne mangoes, coconut milk

1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

Check out our latest find! If you’re into high quality sashimi and understand the beauty of a high-end omakase experience, then, you need to check out Sushi By Bou. The chic lounge is the sister restaurant of Sushi Boutique, also in the Claridge Hotel, and the highly acclaimed Sushi Suite 202 concept. Experience yourself what a true omakase + cocktail experience looks like.

59 W Hubbard St #2, Chicago, IL 60654

219 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607

It’s never too hot for ramen, and no, you cannot argue with us on this one. Ramen-San is our go-to for a quick yet delicious bowl of ramen. You just can’t go wrong with their signature bowls. Enjoy a classic tonkotsu ramen, or explore the more innovative options like the kimchi fried chicken ramen or spicy garlic miso ramen (our fav!).

1065 W Argyle St, Chicago, IL 60640

Looking for a quick lunch of warm Pho, refreshing spring rolls, or healthy salad? Or are you ready to explore the rich texture of AAPI cuisine? Then, come to Pho 777! Plenty of Chicago foodies will tell you they have the best pho in town. They also have seasonal appetizers, snacks, and special menus for traditional Asian holidays, which are totally worth checking out!

2211 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Is the hot weather getting to you? Then, head to Cebu for some light, refreshing, and flavorful Filipino street fare, plus a signature summer cocktail to break you free from the heat! However, you do need to be adventurous to fully enjoy Cebu’s menu. But once you step beyond your comfort zone, you’d realize how much you were missing out up till this point!

1232 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Want to see what REAL Filipino food looks like? Try Kubo’s Kamayan “Boodle” Dining experience, where you eat with your hands! The term kamayan can be used to describe the act of eating by hand, but a traditional kamayan meal is a feast served family style, usually over banana leaves. This special menu includes Fried Pampano, Baked Mussels, Longganisa (Filipino Sausage), Pork Adobo Ribs, Sweetie Pork (Tocino), Crispy Chicken Inasal (Strips), Chicken Eggroll, and many more!

Image Credit: Ban Po Jung Korean Restaurant

3450 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

There are many Korean restaurants in Chicagoland, but only one Ban Po Jung. If you consider yourself a serious foodie ready to explore the most authentic Korean food in Chicago, you need to pay Ban Po Jung a visit. From various pickles to authentic appetizers to probably the best Bi Bi Bamp in town… Be careful. Ban Po Jung will make your taste buds only accept the best Korean food from here on!

1147 S Delano Ct East, Chicago, IL 60605

Wagyu and hot pot — do we need to say more? The X Pot has brought hot pots to a whole new level. Featuring top-grade ingredients, authentic broth with various spice levels (be careful!!), and a dazzling immersive experience of sound and light, the X Pot easily got on our list of the best Asian food in Chicago. Depending on the time you come in, you might even get to see Dancing Noodle and Peking Opera Face Changing performances right by your dining table!

2828 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

New Furama Restaurant is the S**T if you’re looking for authentic dim sums. Choose from American-Chinese dim sums like eggrolls, or go straight into the real deal, including beef tripes, pickled chicken feet, curry baby squid, and lotus-wrapped mochi rice. You will also find a variety of chicken, beef, pork, seafood, and veggie entrees at New Furama Restaurant.

108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611

Experience luxurious Chinese fine dining at the beautiful Peninsula Hotel Chicago, specifically, the famous Shanghai Terrace. A gem on Mag Mile by itself, Shanghai Terrace brings you elevated Chinese fare in its 1930s supper club ambiance and will keep you coming back for more. Try the iconic Monk Jumps Over The Wall made with dried seafood delicacies, finest herbs and thick broth, or the traditional Peking Duck with mandarin pancakes, cucumber, scallion, hoisin, and plum sauce.

Image Credit: YATAI Asian Street Food

6230 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660

Can’t decide which cuisine you’d like to try? Why not take them all? YATAI Asian Street Food is the perfect place for those who don’t want to pick and choose. From fresh sushi to Korean stirfry, YATAI is here to satisfy all your fast Asian food cravings. Keep coming back until you’ve tried them all, then come back once more for your favorites!

Featured Image Credit: Sunda New Asian

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