Wednesday, June 25, 2008

What's up next, yo . . .

The Stew takes a look at Freshii, the Loop's newest health-conscious option, but they didn't love it.

And Time Out Chicago gives the 411 on Logan Bar & Grill, the new watering hole from the guys behind Black Beetle and the Northside.

A shot at a good time tonight

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Don't let the weather get you down, there's plenty going on inside so that you don't miss a step:

The Violet Hour opened last year around this time, and it continues to get props. This time Esquire—in its annual best bars issue—named it one of the country's hottest spots. Tonight, they're celebrating with a party hosted by Don Julio Tequila. 7-11pm. No cover.

The launch party for Chicago Is...Red Hot—the annual fall fashion show by The Apparel Industry Board, Inc.—happens at Chaise Lounge. Hosted by CS magazine, the event includes music by DJ White Shadow, comped cocktails by Ketel One Vodka, appetizers and the opportunity to hang out on one of the sexiest rooftops in the city. 6-9pm. No cover.

SHE Boutique (1024 W. Armitage Ave.) celebrates its first-year anniversary with an event hosted by LUCKY magazine. Explore the Sweet Side of Fashion offers complimentary Prosecco sparkling wine, treats from yummy Dylan's Candy Bar and 20 percent off all purchases. SHE carries a number of top-notch designers, including Roberto Cavalli Sun, Dream Society, Young fabolous and Broke, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, as well as bags by Zac Posen. 7-9pm. No cover, but RSVP to rsvp@skirtpr.com.

Three top Loop chefs join forces for Chefs on the Grill at Park Grill. Executive Chef Bernie Laskowski (Park Grill), Jose Garces (Mercat a la Planxa) and Doran Payne (Rhapsody) prepare their specialties; cocktails and wine included in price. Event benefits the Grant Park Conservancy. 6-8:30pm. $55.

It's the Battle of the Italian Wines as Tuscany takes on Veneto for the June installment of Quartino's monthly wine tasting party. Amarone della Valpolicella vs. Vino Nobile di Montelpulciano, with guests getting to taste their best vino, plus estate bottled olive oils. Also included in the ticket price are Neopolitan thin crust stone oven pizza, classic Italian Salumi, Quartino recipe cured meats and cicchetti (bar snacks) paired with the selections. 7-9pm. $35 (includes a take-home bottle of one of the featured wines).