Unconditional Italian

. . . To Grandmother’s House We Go

Scott Harris (Mia Francesca) and Patrick Concannon (Don Juan’s) plan to open a rustic Italian spot called Osteria Ottimo (16111 S. La Grange Rd., Orland Park; 708-403-3366) around the New Year. “It’s going to feel as though it’s been there for a hundred years,” says Concannon, who has been a corporate chef at Francesca’s for the past six years. “Old barn wood, lots of brick, white mosaic tile.” The 130-seat spot will also feature an open kitchen, a glassed-in antipasti area, and straight-up Italian comfort food: lasagne…

Odyssey: Fun Size

In the tradition of miniature lap dogs, miniskirts, and Mini Coopers, mini food is the next big little thing. Many Chicago chefs and bakers are pushing the traditional boundaries of food in portions that are allowed to be little. Here, a small taste of the best

Sweet Victory

Challenge your friends by hosting a holiday cookie contest. We tell you how, plus eight great recipes from top local pastry chefs