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President Biden’s plan for universal preschool is the ‘great equalizer’ for kidson May 8, 2021 at 9:00 am

Mona Charen’s recent column, “Why, Goodness, Who Could Possibly Oppose Universal Pre-K?” mixes apples and oranges, and a few bananas. Her column mixes up daycare and preschool (two very different programs) and a parent’s desire to work while parenting young kids. All three concepts deserve a separate column.

I have no doubt that some of the surveys that she quoted are accurate. It is exceedingly difficult to balance work and parenthood. Part-time work is a great compromise, as mentioned in her column. But balancing work and parenting is not the point of the president’s desire to expand preschool for all. Nor is it the point of his desire to offer two free years of junior college to all. The point is more education for more kids.

The “gold-standard” preschool study she notes only followed the kids until third grade. The Perry Preschool study followed them for 15 years and found great outcomes. Also, subsequent studies found that some kids in low-income neighborhoods need after school tutoring throughout grade school as well.

All kids at age 3 are eager to learn. A former neighbor of mine and I used to talk about our “kids” in our classes. I used to complain about 17-year-olds who made it through high school lacking basic reading and math skills. She complained about 5-year-olds who were not ready for kindergarten. I had no idea that kids that young could differ so much in skills.

Head Start and other preschool programs are the great equalizer. They get kids ready to learn. President Lyndon B. Johnson started Head Start because he taught young kids from a very poor area in Texas and saw the need.

Ms. Charen should write a column devoted to the teachers who work with young kids every day.

Jan Goldberg, Riverside

SEND LETTERS TO: [email protected]. Please include your neighborhood or hometown and a phone number for verification purposes. Letters should be approximately 350 words or less.

We need more technology like ShotSpotter

Not only am I a proponent of ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology, I don’t feel it goes far enough.

The times I’m aware of shots being fired on my block, the police have shown up and that’s a good thing in my opinion. Invariably, they then ask residents if they have security cameras that may have picked up the incident. My question is, why aren’t there working police- monitored cameras on our blocks? We need to get serious about making peace-seeking residents safer.

Michael Pearson, Englewood

Baseball’s fan base

It is a real shame that people no longer have free television access to the baseball games.

Growing up, it was great to watch the Cubs play. The fans were the backbone of these clubs. On a special day, maybe they could make it to the stadium in person, with their cow bell in hand. Now they’re home because of COVID-19, or because they’re retired or maybe sick and can’t work. These folks can’t watch their teams unless they pay up for special TV access.

It seems like the sports teams have turned their backs on their most loyal fans. Hope it doesn’t come as a surprise when they find their fan base strikes them out.

Carol Huotari, Melrose Park

Keep Trump away for good

A board at Facebook kept former President Trump off of Facebook. Ah, peace.

I took myself off of Facebook in 2018. But a white supremacist who seeks civil discord should not be given a platform to display discrimination against everyone who does not think as he does. “My way or the highway” is not expected from a former president. “All for the common good” is more like what we need to hear.

My message: Permanently remove Donald J. Trump from Facebook and other social media.

Janice Gintzler, Crestwood

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President Biden’s plan for universal preschool is the ‘great equalizer’ for kidson May 8, 2021 at 9:00 am Read More »

How I wish I could dance with Mama againon May 8, 2021 at 9:00 am

I remember Mama…

Mama was the kind of woman who loved her children more than anything else in the world and would protect them unto death. A brown-skinned woman with thick brown lips and pretty eyebrows, she also loved God, a pack of Winston’s, a 16-ounce bottle of Pepsi-Cola, and snapping her fingers to a slow jam playing over the radio.

Mama was gentle and kindhearted, quick to help a friend or family, always willing to give her last. She believed in family and in sticking together. “Family is always first,” I can still hear Mama telling her children. “All y’all gonna ever have is each other.”

Mama was tender-hearted and easily wounded, but also a fighter. If you had to go to war, you would want to take Mama. She wasn’t the kind to back down and wasn’t one to mince words, either.

In-depth political coverage, sports analysis, entertainment reviews and cultural commentary.

Mama was a supreme curser. When she was spewing profanities, the words shot out like hollow-point bullets that could penetrate even the most fortified of psyches. She created word combinations of such invention that I have rarely heard the equal, even from some of the most proficient of profanity spewers.

Mama didn’t curse — she cussed. Her enunciation was riveting. She’d cut ’em up then walk away, depending on whether the person still wanted to tango.

I loved to dance with my Mama…

“I wanna hold your han-an-and,” I sang as Mama got ready for work, the sounds of the radio sweeping through our apartment like the smell of Dial soap and Mama’s instant coffee, which she always mixed with water she boiled in a small uncovered pot on the kitchen stove.

Mama loved music. Our hi-fi was truly one of Mama’s treasures. It was one of those rectangular-shaped, mahogany-colored wooden boxes. Our hi-fi sat in the living room. Mama had amassed her own collection of 45s and LPs. She had everybody: Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, the Temptin’ Temptations, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight and the Pips, James Brown.

Mama’s love for music rubbed off on me. I also picked up her knack for dancing. I especially liked to dance with Mama. She smiled and snapped. I shuffled and shook.

“You getting’ down, boy,” Mama used to say in that way older Black folks do when they’re watching a little kid boogie down.

I never said a word. I just smiled and danced with all my might until I got tired or the music stopped.

How I wish I could dance with my mother again…

Even during my senior year of high school, money was tight. Mama scrounged up enough for deposits on my senior pictures and class ring, though in the end we could afford neither. I kept the proofs of my pictures, wallet-sized photos etched with the name of the studio and the word “proofs.” I never laid eyes on the ring.

But at least I was getting my diploma. Mama couldn’t afford that, either. But true to her word, sometimes through borrowing, penny-pinching, and always sacrifice, she had found a way to pay my tuition at Providence St. Mel.

The best picture that I took that sun-washed graduation day is one that I have kept all these years safely tucked away behind the plastic preserving pages of an old photo album. In that photo, Mama stares at the camera. I hold my diploma, kissing her on the cheek. Mama’s face is spread in a girlish smile.

But it is her eyes that move me. They are so happy.

Nearly seven years since her passing, I miss her everyday, especially on Mother’s Day.
But until my dying day, I will always remember Mama.

Email John Fountain at [email protected]

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How I wish I could dance with Mama againon May 8, 2021 at 9:00 am Read More »

Van Morrison does it again….and that’s not a good thingon May 8, 2021 at 5:17 am

I’ve Got The Hippy Shakes

Van Morrison does it again….and that’s not a good thing

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Van Morrison does it again….and that’s not a good thingon May 8, 2021 at 5:17 am Read More »

Horoscope for Saturday, May 8, 2021Georgia Nicolson May 8, 2021 at 5:01 am


Moon Alert

There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions. The moon is in Aries.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

This is a lovely day for you. The moon is in your sign dancing with Saturn, while meanwhile, Venus and Jupiter are cozy and in touch. This means you will vacillate between being self-indulgent vs. being self-disciplined. An interesting day!

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You feel happy and good about life. This is why you want to kick back and relax. Nevertheless, something going on behind the scenes will make you do some work and a little research so that you will still get something done today. Oh yeah.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Part of you wants to be low-key and stay behind the scenes. That’s just fine. However, another part of you wants to get out and schmooze. No doubt some of your interaction with others will be with someone older or more experienced than you. Good chance to learn something new!

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You are high visibility, which means that people notice you more than usual. Fortunately, they see you as competent, careful and conscientious. Nevertheless, your close friends know that today you want to play! Enjoy hanging out with creative people!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You make a fabulous impression on bosses, parents, teachers and VIPs. In fact, you will impress them to the extent that some of you might begin a flirtation or a romance with a boss. (Oh my.) Meanwhile, a serious discussion about politics, religion or legal matters might also take place.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Travel for pleasure will appeal today. This is also an excellent day to meet people who are “different.” Legal judgments might favor you. Meanwhile, serious discussions about shared property, inheritances, taxes and debt will be precise and satisfactory.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Keep your pockets open because gifts, goodies and even money from others might come your way today. Yes, this is a fortunate day for you! Meanwhile, expect to have a serious discussion about something that matters with a partner or close friend. It’s all good.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Relations with those who are closest to you are warm and charming. You will enjoy their company and they will enjoy seeing you. It’s the perfect day for a long lunch or any excuse to avoid work. Nevertheless, you will take care of some details, especially something that is pet related or to do with your health.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

This is a good day to practice a skill or hone a technique perhaps in the performance arts or sports so that you get better and better at something the more you do it. Just do short spurts because you also want to kick back and play. It’s a mixed bag.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Serious discussions at home, possibly with an older family member, might take place. Nevertheless, meanwhile, you want to play as well today and enjoy fun activities with kids, sports events and social diversions. (It looks like you can have it all!)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You might want to entertain at home today. You will certainly want to do something to make your home look more beautiful, which is why efforts to redecorate will appeal to you. If you need to discuss your ideas with someone, you will be serious and detail-oriented.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Although you want to relax and enjoy the company of siblings, relatives and neighbors today — really hang out — nevertheless, you will be quite serious when it comes to financial matters. If you’re shopping or spending money, you’ll know what you’re doing.

If Your Birthday Is Today

Actress Melissa Gilbert (1964) shares your birthday. You are generous, intelligent and kind. You are also astute and have excellent organizational skills. As your new personal year begins, you enter a year of endings and wrapping up things. It’s time to get ready to move on to something new! This is not loss. You are cleaning up things and clearing the way for new ways of doing things.

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Horoscope for Saturday, May 8, 2021Georgia Nicolson May 8, 2021 at 5:01 am Read More »

Carlos Rodon continues eventful White Sox week with six scoreless innings to beat Royalson May 8, 2021 at 4:01 am

This has been some kind of week for the White Sox. It has been some kind of season for Carlos Rodon.

The Sox learned Monday that star center fielder Luis Robert would miss three to four months after suffering a torn hip flexor the day before, taxing a lineup that’s already missing the powerful Eloy Jimenez. Two days later, Tony La Russa didn’t know that he wasn’t forced to use closer Liam Hendriks as a runner to start the 10th inning, adding to the mounting criticism of the manager.

Then on Friday night in Kansas City, Missouri, against the Royals, Carlos Rodon made his first start in May after a sterling April, during which he emerged as one of the best surprises in baseball with an 0.72 ERA and a no-hitter while surrendering just seven hits. Rodon’s opening start of the month felt like April. He threw six scoreless innings, struck out eight and walked none in the Sox’ 3-0 victory, the team’s sixth shutout.

Rodon was supported by Zack Collins’ home run, Adam Eaton’s RBI single and Jose Abreu’s run-scoring double. His record improved to 5-0, and Rodon continued his resurgence after a rash of injuries.

“It’s rewarding now,” Rodon said. “I just want to keep going throughout this whole season. What’s important is the next start. It’s been fun.”

Another strong outing for their surprise ace was the latest event for the Sox, who pulled into first place, a half-game ahead of the Indians in a bunched-up American League Central. But they were in that position thanks somewhat to Robert.

Before his injury, Robert hit .316/.359/.463 with an .822 OPS. The Sox are a few days into life without Robert, and they announced Friday that he wouldn’t need surgery and that the team would provide another update in eight weeks.

Though the news apparently won’t affect Robert’s timeline, the Sox embraced the development.

“My understanding in being around different injuries over the years is if you can avoid surgery, that’s a plus,” La Russa said. “So it is a real healthy sign for Luis. And what’s good for Luis is good for us, but I do believe that that’s good news.”

Surgery or not, the Sox will have to cope with Robert’s absence. It’s unlikely anybody they bring in will replace his contributions, and the Sox as a whole will have to stay in the race without two-thirds of their starting outfield for the foreseeable future.

They’ll have to get used to playing without Robert quickly because Friday was the first of a 13-game stretch against division rivals, the Royals and Twins. The Sox started the two-week period well, getting a scoreless inning each from relievers Codi Heuer, Aaron Bummer and Hendriks to nail it down.

“It has the makings of the kind of bullpen that Kenny [Williams] and Rick [Hahn] talked about,” La Russa said. “A lot of depth.”

For one night, it also meant less drama surrounding La Russa.

La Russa was scrutinized for having Leury Garcia attempt to steal in the 10th inning of Wednesday’s 1-0 loss at -Cincinnati. But the viral moment was Hendriks’ running when he didn’t have to.

On Friday, La Russa said he was glad he didn’t try to “b.s.” his way through it. He said he told Hendriks not to do anything crazy on the bases and praised the league for making the change.

“It’s a good rule, and I’ve had a few people contact me in the game that were not aware, either,” La Russa said. “I’m sure a lot were, but I admit I didn’t know and it’s a good rule. A very good rule.”

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Carlos Rodon continues eventful White Sox week with six scoreless innings to beat Royalson May 8, 2021 at 4:01 am Read More »

Man fatally shot in Austin: policeon May 8, 2021 at 4:35 am

A 31-year-old man was fatally shot Friday night in Austin on the West Side.

About 10:15 p.m., the man was standing in a gangway between two buildings in the first block of North Menard Avenue when someone fired shots at him, Chicago police said.

He suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the body and head and was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

No one is in custody, police said.

Area Four detectives are investigating.

Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.

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Man fatally shot in Austin: policeon May 8, 2021 at 4:35 am Read More »

Bulls fans return to United CenterManny Ramoson May 8, 2021 at 1:38 am

Chicago Bulls fans get their e-tickets ready to show staff at Gate 3, during the first home game allowing fans to spectate between the Bulls and Boston Celtics.
Chicago Bulls fans get their e-tickets ready to show staff at Gate 3 of the United Center Friday night. It was the first time fans could attend a Bulls home game in person this season. | Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

Chris and Karen Fisher traveled from St. Louis to the United Center to see the Bulls-Celtics game in person. Chris Fisher may be a lifelong Celtics fan, but he still holds a soft spot for Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls.

Sam Glavas and Joe Frantik were excited last year when they became Chicago Bulls season ticket holders for the first time.

But that excitement, like the rest of the state, was shut down by the coronavirus pandemic and the statewide lockdown, which kicked in just two weeks after they bought those tickets.

“We were only able to go to some like family-intro event [for season ticket holders] and that was like it,” Glavas said. “So this whole time we’ve been seeing other markets getting games back and when we were able to finally get games back here, and we were like, ‘Hell yeah, let’s go.’”

The two were among hundreds who lined up Friday night to file into the United Center to watch a struggling Bulls team play the Boston Celtics — the first time fans could attend a Bulls home game in-person since the coronavirus pandemic forced the city to ban mass gatherings, including at sporting events, over a year ago.

Glavas and Frantik agree it doesn’t matter that the Bulls sit in 11th place in the Eastern Conference standings, or that the team has a losing record. What does matter, they say, is sitting in the stands with a cold beer cheering on the team with other like-minded fans.

“I went to the last Blackhawks game at the United Center just before they shut everything down,” Frantik said. “For me, I kind of just want to bookend it here since I started the pandemic here and I think this was a good place to end the pandemic.”

Chicago Bulls fans wait outside the United Center Friday night, May 7, 2021. It was the first home game at which fans had been allowed since last year.
Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Chicago Bulls fans wait outside the United Center Friday night.

Nick Damayo and D’Angelo Banda have their own idea of a good place; before each home game, they like to look back on the success the Bulls had over two decades ago.

“We always stop at the trophy case before the game starts. That’s our tradition,” Banda said.

“And not just the trophies,” Damayo said. “We just walk around and soak everything in just before.”

Chris Fisher and Karen Fisher traveled from St. Louis to the United Center to see the game in person. Chris Fisher, despite being a life-long Celtics fan, has a soft spot for Michael Jordan and the Bulls.

“We are just ready to celebrate and get out the house since we are both vaccinated,” Karen Fisher said. “I couldn’t think of a better way to do it than be here.”

For Chris Fisher, it was surreal being in the place where the Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, beat his Celtics time and time again.

“This is my first time here and I just want to see everything,” said Chris Fisher, decked out in Celtics gear. “Do you know where the Michael Jordan statue is at?”

Boston Celtics fans, Chris Fisher, left, and Karen Fisher, pose together outside the United Center, during the first home game allowing fans to spectate between the Bulls and Boston Celtics.
Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Boston Celtics fans Chris (left) and Karen Fisher, outside the United Center before Friday’s game. They made the trip from St. Louis to see the Bulls play their team, the Boston Celtics. It was the first home game at which spectators were allowed in the United Center this season.

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Bulls fans return to United CenterManny Ramoson May 8, 2021 at 1:38 am Read More »

Chicago Auto Show to Return to McCormick Place in 2021Brian Lendinoon May 4, 2021 at 4:32 pm

Sound the alarms! Rejoice! The world-famous Chicago Auto Show will return to McCormick Place this July. It will be the first major convention or festival the city of Chicago has seen since the coronavirus pandemic shut everything completely down in spring of 2020.

Event organizers, along with Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Lightfoot announced Tuesday that the Chicago Auto Show will take place on July 15th to July 19th and will remain in its usual home at 2301 S. King Drive. Mayor Lightfoot also announced the news on Twitter early Tuesday morning.

General information for the Chicago Auto Show can be found on the event website. But, tickets to the auto show will cost $13 for adults, $8 for children ages 7-12 and adults 62 and older. Admission will be free for children 6 and younger as long as they’re with an adult.

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The city has been trending towards this for much of the spring. Earlier in the year, the city announced (alongside the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox) that limited numbers of fans may attend games at Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field for the 2021 season. This was the first step, being as they are outdoor events. City officials made it clear just last week that they’d allow conventions again as vaccines have become available to everyone over the age of 16 and subsequent coronavirus cases continue to drop.

The latest news about the upcoming Chicago Auto Show is a good sign for other notable Chicago summer events such as the Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza. The city’s events commission has talked about budget constraints limiting their flexibility with large-scale events and limited time to plan and coordinate. However, the green light to sell tickets for the Chicago Auto Show is a good sign for other iconic summertime Chicago staples to move forward past this COVID-19 pandemic.

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Featured Image Credit: by sebastiaan stam on Unsplash
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Chicago Auto Show to Return to McCormick Place in 2021Brian Lendinoon May 4, 2021 at 4:32 pm Read More »

19 Restaurants Around Chicago Running Mother’s Day SpecialsBrian Lendinoon May 7, 2021 at 5:07 pm

You should celebrate your mother everyday, but for a little extra love on her most special of days turn to one of these 19 Chicagoland bars, restaurants, dessert shops, etc, for the best Mother’s Day specials this year. Choose between these restaurants celebrating moms: Andros Taverna, BLVD Steakhouse, Farm Bar Lakeview, Farmhouse Evanston, Funkenhausen, Gemini, Nonnina, PB&J, Rainbow Cone, Recess & City Hall, Robert Et Fils, Sepia, Sophia Steak, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee,The Dearborn and The Table at Crate.

Follow our roundup and find the perfect Mother’s Day meal to celebrate the most important woman in your life.

Andros Taverna

Andros Taverna will celebrate moms with brunch and a selection of pastries and whole cakes for pre-order including Tahini Chiffon Cake with Heaven’s Honey Cream, Rosewater Galaktaboureko with raspberries and Chocolate Frappé Cake with coffee ganache. Mother’s Day cakes serve 4 – 6 people. If you’re looking for fun Mother’s Day ideas in Chicago, Moms can dine-in at Andros Taverna and participate in the Philotimo Feast with Border Springs roasted leg of lamb and floral bouquets that are available for pre-order. For pre-order and reservation details visit androstaverna.com.

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BLVD Steakhouse

Celebrate mom with a one-day-only brunch at BLVD Steakhouse. In addition to its regular dinner service, the glamorous Old Hollywood-inspired steakhouse will offer a 3-course shared brunch menu for $55 per person on Sunday, May 9. Dish selections include: Cured Salmon Toast with pickled beets, arugula, housemade yogurt and dill; Pain Perdu Brioche French Toast with rum custard, fresh berries and crème anglaise; Shakshuka with an ottoman farm vegetable stew, poached eggs and goat cheese; Chicken & Waffles with buttermilk fried chicken and a house-made Belgian waffle; and Steak & Eggs with a 10oz prime bavette steak, breakfast potatoes and two farm fresh eggs.

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Bloody Marys, bottomless mimosas, other specialty cocktails, as well as luxe upgrades, like Seafood Towers and Caviar Service, will also be available. BLVD Steakhouse will be open on Mother’s Day for brunch from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and for dinner from 5-9 p.m. Reservations can be made via OpenTable. For more information, visit www.blvdchicago.com.

El Che Steakhouse & Bar

El Che Steakhouse & Bar in Chicago will celebrate moms with the Mother’s Day Kit this year. The kit will be $175 and include two filets, a bottle of bubbles, alfajores, smoked salt and a Studio Sour bowl. Mother’s Day Kits are available for order online now at exploretock.com/elchechicago.

Farm Bar

To celebrate the queen bees, Farm Bar will serve brunch specials with a complimentary jar of Brown Dog Farm honey and free peach mimosas for moms. Brunch will also include Monkey Bread, Strawberry Rhubarb French Toast and Smoked Trout Benedict. Reservations can be made online with Resy at farm-bar.com.

Farmhouse Tavern Evanston

Farmhouse Tavern Evanston will celebrate Mother’s Day with an all-day menu featuring three courses. Course one will include family-style breads and spreads. Two will feature your choice of an entree including Eggs Benedict, Red Wine Braised Short Rib and Seared Salmon, while course three offers a family-style dessert featuring Strawberry Short Cake and Chocolate Bread Pudding. The three-course menu at this restaurant in Chicago is $38 for adults and $17 for kids. Reservations can be made at farmhouseevanston.com.

Firelake

FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, the restaurant located at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, is serving a three-course pre-fixed Mother’s Day Dinner May 9 from 2pm – 9pm. Start with a choice of Delta asparagus soup with Blue crab, sherry, and brioche croutons; or Cow’s Milk Burrata with prosciutto, asparagus, and cara cara. For the Main, choose between the Chilean Sea Bass with onion crust, spring vegetables, and English pea sauce; Cabernet braised short rib with spring onion, miso turnip puree, mizuna, and kumquats; or Wild Shrimp Risotto with English peas, bacon, and yuzu emulsion. For Dessert, choose between Tiramisu with Frangelico mascarpone mousse, coffee syrup, milk chocolate, dark chocolate glaze, and salted chocolate hazelnut; or Carrot cake with cream cheese icing, shredded carrots, coconut, pecan pieces, and crushed pineapple. Reservations at firelakechicago.com. $48 per person.

Funkenhausen

Funkenhausen, the West Town beer hall, will offer free mimosas. Reservations for the patio and indoor dining can be made through their website at funkenhausen.com/make-a-reservation.

Gemini

Nestled in Lincoln Park, Gemini will offer specialty brunch and dinner options for Mother’s Day. Guests can enjoy Lobster Caesar Salad for $28 and their usual brunch options. Dinner options include Lobster Bisque, Alaskan Halibut with morel mushrooms, sweet spring peas, petite salad, and meyer lemon Beurre Blanc, and Fried Chicken Dinner. All day dessert includes Strawberry Shortcake for $12. Additionally, Gemini will partner with a local flower shop so diners can pre-order mini bouquets for Mother’s Day with their reservation. Guests can also request a bouquet by calling any Ballyhoo location when booking their reservation.

Nonnina

To help celebrate moms all weekend long, Nonnina will offer complimentary prosecco to moms when they dine on Saturday, May 8. Reservations are available with OpenTable at opentable.com/r/nonnina-chicago.

PB&J: Pizza, Beer, & Jukebox

This Mother’s Day, PB&J will feature  specialty brunch menu items such as a Lemon Ginger Souffle served with strawberry rhubarb jam, Milk Crumbs, and Mint Fizz. Additionally, PB&J is celebrating moms by giving them a free glass of Champagne and  rose upon arrival. Guests can make reservations at https://pbjwestloop.com

Rainbow Cone

All moms will receive a free small Rainbow Cone with any purchase. For more information, visit https://www.rainbowcone.com

Recess & City Hall

City Hall, located adjacent to Recess in the same historic West Loop building, will open for a special family-style Mother’s Day Brunch on May 9. Enjoy live music from a female-only band. Recess will offer a la carte brunch options as well.  For more, visit http://thecityhall.com/ and https://chicagoinrecess.com/

Robert Et Fils

In honor of Mother’s Day, Robert Et Fils will offer diners a “Mother’s Day Picnic Kit” that is perfect for the whole family. The kit is $160.00 and serves up to four people. The kit includes fresh juice, a bottle of wine, fresh bread, preserves, hand picked wild vegetables, Salade Maison and a Whole Roasted Green Circle Chicken stuffed with lemon, picholine olives, and breadcrumbs. For dessert, guests can indulge in a Seasonal Tarte and more. To prepare for Mother’s Day, guests can order on Tock and schedule their pick up for Sunday, May 9th between 10:00am and 2:00pm. For more information, visit https://www.robertetfilsrestaurant.com/order-online.

Sepia

Sepia will offer an at-home Mother’s Day Meal Kit. The meal kit, which feeds two people, is $80 and includes Toasted Almond Bostock and Blueberry-Lemon Muffins, Vanilla Yogurt, Arugula Salad with dried cherries, candied hazelnuts and goat cheese and the Buttermilk Biscuit Sandwich in two variations. Add-on items include Pimento cheese with Lavash Crackers, Smoked salmon rillettes with a toasted baguette and Strawberry-rhubarb pie. For more, see sepiachicago.com.

Sophia Steak

Located on the North Shore, Sophia Steak will feature the ultimate Mother’s Day Brunch. Sophia Steak is partnering with a local flower shop so diners can pre-order mini bouquets for mom with their reservation. Guests can also request a bouquet by calling any Ballyhoo location when booking their reservation. For more information, visit http://sophiasteak.com

Stan’s Donuts & Coffee

To celebrate the opening of their new Hyde Park location, Stan’s Donuts will host a Stan’s Van popup for Mother’s Day. The popup will be at 5225 S Harper Ct, Chicago, IL 60615. Find more details at stansdonuts.com.

The Dearborn

The Dearborn will be serving all-day specials for Mother’s Day including Jumbo Shrimp & Lobster Cocktails for $36, Chicken ‘Pot Pie’ Vol au Vent for $25 and The Dearborn Pastry Basket for $30. Reservations can be made online at thedearborntavern.com/reservations.

The Smith

The Smith will be offering two experiences to celebrate Mother’s Day this year, including a specialty brunch and at-home kit. If you’re searching for Mother’s Day ideas near Chicago, the brunch will consist of The Smith’s full brunch menu plus an asparagus toast with burrata and poached eggs special. The Smith will also offer their take-home kit to bring the brunch offerings to you. Brunch is available from 10:00am – 4:00pm.Reservations at at-home kit requests can be made at thesmithrestaurant.com/location/chicago.

The Table at Crate

Chef Bill Kim will offer a special four-course brunch menu that pays homage to three special mothers who have each had profound impacts on his life. Each dish draws inspiration from these women, telling a story through dishes, ingredients and flavors representative of each. The first course, Green Acres Farm Spring Asparagus Sauté, starts with Beth Eccles, the first local farmer who Kim began working within the city and who became like a sister over the last three decades. Chef Bill’s mother is the inspiration for the second course, Mama Kim’s Famous Savory Pancake with soft-boiled farmer’s egg and shrimp, highlighting their Korean heritage through her famous savory pancakes. The third course is a nod to Kim’s mother-in-law Lola and his wife’s Puerto Rican background: Lola’s Salmon Criolla with roasted garlic & Three Sisters Garden white corn grits. Available for $65 per person on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9. https://www.tableatcrate.com/.

Mother’s Day Specials Featured Image Credit: Pixabay

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19 Restaurants Around Chicago Running Mother’s Day SpecialsBrian Lendinoon May 7, 2021 at 5:07 pm Read More »