When did pro athletes become so charming?? Israel Idonijie is most well known for his time playing for the Chicago Bears but he’s also involved in the Chicago restaurant community and recently opened an elevated sports bar in the South Loop of the city, not far from Soldier Field. Lisa talks to Israel about anything from menu items, staying in shape while surrounded by delicious food and exactly what’s up with the naked pics in the bathrooms at his new restaurant? Enjoy!
We’re starting Season Two with culinary icon, Chef Rick Bayless! From his series, Mexico: One Plate at a Time all the way to the Mayor of Chicago honoring him with his own day to celebrate all of his accomplishments, we cover a lot today! Lisa Allen sits down with Chef Rick Bayless to discuss his cultural journey, his views from an upside place (you have to listen to get this part) and his everlasting desire to see and learn and do more than ever before!
Billy Dec is a celebrated restaurateur here in Chicago and nationwide with a new documentary film, Food Roots, hitting the film festival circuit and receiving rave reviews. Lisa has run in some of the same circles as Billy Dec over the years but discovers today there’s SO MUCH more than to him and his story than what you see on tv.
Hannah Dasher is everywhere! You may know her from TikTok and her “Stand By Your Pan” series or even from the Rachel Ray show. Perhaps you know her from her sassy and soulful country music. Well today, megafan Lisa sits down with Hannah to talk weight loss, food on cheat days and all kinds of stuff we probably aren’t supposed to be talking about. Get ready for this one!
Why would anyone leave the fine dining of big cities to flip pizza dough in the burbs and feed those in need? I’m pretty sure it’s because this guy has a big heart and a family that supported his want to give back to the community. Today, Lisa sits down with Dan Coudreaut of Lantern Pizza in Downers Grove to hear the ins and outs of a really interesting story!
We’ve all heard of Meals on Wheels and all the good they do in communities across America BUT have you heard about their annual Celebrity Chef Ball in Chicago? It’s one of the most highly anticipated fundraising events in Chicago, all to benefit Meals On Wheels and today Lisa sits down with Cory Morris to find out all about it!
Everyone loves pizza but do you love it enough to start a pizza festival?? Lisa sits down with Steve Dolinsky, a highly celebrated journalist and television host who’s taken his love and knowledge of food and turned it into something everyone can experience and enjoy! Who knew there was so much learn about something we just love to eat? Plus, we’ve got an added bonus of extra fun when Violeta Podrumedic joins the show as well!
What’s it like going on tour with Paul McCartney, Beyonce or Guns & Roses? Lisa sits down with Debbie Sharpe of Goddess & Grocer and Goddess Rocks to hear ALL the stories that are over 30 years in the making! Grab a snack, this is a good one!
We’re gonna skip the spleen sandwiches today and head directly to the delicious arancini! Lisa catches up with Chef Steven Jarczyk and Daniela Vitae, owners of Sfera Sicilian Street Food in Edgewater. They went from cooking in a ghost kitchen during the pandemic to being one of the most cherished beach snack spots in Chicago in just a few years. Prepare to laugh, learn and see how awkward Lisa is when she tries to pronounce “Sfera”.
Steve Wilkos is celebrating his 30th year on television and he stops by to talk with Lisa Allen about all things Chicago; including but not limited to his favorite spots in town, weight loss and all kinds of friendly jabs and laughs between them. Buckle up, this is a good one!