Shia LaBeouf's teen thriller "Disturbia" topped the box office for a THIRD straight week, earning a skimpy $9.1 million to place ahead of new, not-screened-for-critics gems like "The Invisible"($7.6 million) and Nicolas Cage's "Next" ($7.2 million). If "Disturbia" out-earns "Spider-Man 3" next weekend, we're going to start to wonder if LaBeouf has a relative on the inside toying with the results. What do you think? Is "Disturbia" just benefiting from slow box office returns, or is it a legitimate hit? Do you think the movie deserves its success? Just how badly will it get spanked by "Spider-Man 3" next weekend?

On Thursday, we checked out Artropolis the mega art fest (comprised of five art events at the Merchandise Mart: Art Chicago, the  International Antiques Fair, The Artist Project, The Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art, and Bridge Art Fair)  How overwhelmed were we? We had to ask three people just to find the elevator to take us to the Intuit's preview show (8th floor). But we're glad we found it. If you're going this weekend, this is definitely a must-see show, with work ranging from  Chicago's most celebrated outsider artists like Henry Darger and Lee Godie to many other internationally famous names in the genre.

And the must-see booth at the must-see show? Crowd-favorite Project Onward, a Chicago-based arts program dedicated to helping developmentally and cognitively challenged people express themselves through visual art. A program of City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, it offers some of the most compelling (and affordable) work here.

And among the must-see artists at this must-see booth? Self-taught, 23-year-old James Allen (pictured, left--click image for greater detail), who had two works on display, both of which demonstrated his fascination all things railroad. Allen, who started drawing at age 6, says the colored-pencil drawings take weeks to complete. They're  highly detailed, almost technical, while also remaining emotionally resonant. His drawing of the pre-Metra Illinois Central lines in front of Soldier Field, for instance, will surely fire up some "pre-Spaceship" nostalgia. If you have a South Loop condo, this work belongs in it.

Find the Project Onward at booth 2108.

Name this Lakeview restaurant: Stark-white interior. Pan-Asian menu. Located on Broadway.

If you said Pingpong you'd be correct.

But if you said Sura, which opened today, just a two blocks south, you'd be equally correct. Despite the uncanny surface similarities, however, Sura's menu takes pan-Asian in a different, more contemporary direction, while Pingpong stays solidly with cleaned-up, fresh versions of Asian restaurant classics. Additionally, Sura serves lunch and it will offer a late-night, post-dinner lounge once a liquor license comes through. (For now, you can BYOB, but don't get used to it.)

We  popped into Sura for a quick pad Thai lunch today and must say that we loved the interior-so totally space-age retro glam, I felt like I was at that Hilton in "2001: A Space Odyssey". That front bar lounge is outfitted with wacky bubble chairs hanging from the ceiling, white bean bag chairs on the ground, and molded white plastic DJ deck stands.

Even the servers are wired, walking around with those wireless PDA-type thingies you may have seen in busy NYC spots, which beam your order of Thai Tapas (roasted coconut, endive and palm suger reduction, $5) back to the kitchen. Naturally, in true HAL fashion, there was the inevitable first-day tech glitch--my order never made it to the kitchen, causing a bit of delay.

The rest of the menu takes a contemporary pan-Asian approach: gyoza stuffed with housemade apple chutney (part of the lunch appetizer menu-small, delicious and free when ordered with a lunch entree) and macadamia-nut encrusted salmon with pineapple and tropical curry ($14) on the dinner menu.

Still, since we've been pitting restaurants against each other all week-Alinea vs. Trotter's, Kitsch'n on Roscoe vs. Orange on Roscoe-we can't help wonder if Sura will draw some of the regulars from BYOB-only Pingpong. (Pingpong is no longer just BYOB; offering fun cocktails) Or better question: What will it do to 'hood favorite Bamee Noodle Shop? That place is located right next door. Is Broadway big enough for multiple hip Thai/Asian spots.

The spot: The view's not much at Hecky's of Chicago-what's left of Cabrini Green is across the street, and a Mobile station is out front-but friendly service, cheerful yellow walls, flowers on the tables and a spotless dining room inside are decent compensation. And then there's the barbeque: critically acclaimed ribs slathered in a tangy sauce, whole chickens, pulled pork and pulled chicken make the trip worth it-as do fries cooked and seasoned so perfectly that ketchup's not even needed. The menu also includes jumbo fried shrimp ($14.99) and fried chicken ($8.99-$12.99), plus combo platters.

The bottle: There's not a liquor store in sight, but neither Sam's Wine & Spirits nor Whole Foods are far away. If it's wine you're after, try something that can match the heat of the barbecue sauce, such as an Australian shiraz or California zinfandel. But we think beer's a better fit. Try a Belgian-style lambic, or if it's still a bit chilly outside, a porter like Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald ($7.99 for six 12-ounce bottles at Whole Foods). The traditionally clean, smooth, roasted flavors of a porter go perfectly with 'cue.
--Allison Knab, metromix special contributor.

Hey, all you hipster kids looking to pick up a bottle on the way to a BYOB: Cellar Rat has you in mind. This just-opened retail wine shop focuses on small, independent producers. The best part? Most of the selections will only set you back $10-$20; there's even a table vamping vino under 10 bucks. The owners envision it as an "indie record store for wine." In fact, Dean Schlabowske, one of the partners is a founding member of the Waco Brothers. Retro kitchen tables and art on the walls (we're talking a pic of Iggy Pop drinking wine) add to the laid-back vibe, as do classes, flight nights and tastings focused on topics such as what wine to pick for barbecue. PLUS: One of the partners in Cellar Rat is behind the soon-to-open Blind Robin.

Is a battle of the brunch behemoths brewing in Roscoe Village? If you've seen New on the Scene this morning, you may have noticed Orange on Roscoe is taking over the recently closed Brett's in Roscoe Village in May. That location, a few doors west of that other brunch favorite, Kitsch'n on Roscoe, will serve dinner as well as brunch (and should be the first Orange with a liquor license). But we wonder if they're trying to eat the 8-year-old Kitsch'n brunch, so to speak. Both spots, after all, have dishes called Green Eggs and Ham.

The retro-themed Kitsch owner Jon Young isn't sweating it. "I feel really good about our connection to the neighborhood," he says. Plus, "we have the best beer garden in Roscoe Village. The only thing that competes with it is the outdoor space at Volo." Of course, he's a partner in Volo, along with chef Stephen Dunne, so that's not a problem. Besides, the duo is probably more focused on getting The Paramount Room, a planned upscale restaurant and bar near West Town, open by this summer.

So in this battle of the brunches, who wins? Tell us the place you like better: Orange or Kitsch'n

Yeah, after a gorgeous weekend, the weather has returned to its normal soggy April self. But good news: with so many new bars and restaurants opening, you wouldn't want to be in the sun anyway:

<<<--Dining: New on the Scene takes an exclusive sneak peek at Jerry Kleiner's new spot, which opens tomorrow

Bars: Karen Budell goes Behind the Bar to give you the scoop on ton of new watering holes.

Music: Are you ready to rock 'n' vote? Print tix for the FREE show at Double Door tomorrow.

Dating: Forget your abs! 5 ways to tone up your love life for summer (On second thought--abs are pretty important.)

No, no, not secretary--we mean administrative assistant. If you're looking for a place to treat someone, try Petterino's. Just tell your server that you're celebrating, and they'll give you a free chocolate "applause" cake dessert during lunch. What's applause cake? Well, it's kind of like a molten chocolate cake, but Petterino's calls it an "applause" cake as homage to its Theater District locale. But don't tell your assistant that. Let 'em think they applause is just for them! (You can also forget to mention that at lunch, the dessert's normally only $1.99 .)

Restaurant magazine unveiled its Top 50 restaurants in the world yesterday and the big news: Chicago has two restaurants making the cut!  That's not bad since the list contains a total of eight U.S. restaurants. So the two restaurants are -- can you guess? -- Alinea, which ranks at No. 36, and Charlie Trotter's, which ranks at No. 30. OK, no surprises there, but we're sure Mr. Trotter is breathing a small sigh of relief about the order.

We're still curious: Do you think that Restaurant mag got it right? Which one is truly the better restaurant -- Trotter's or Alinea? Or better question: Are these lists even meaningful?

In case you're wondering: The No. 1 ranked restaurant? Well, The Trib's Phil Vettel has the full story here.

Today at 10 a.m. head over to the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers for the unveiling of the biggest Ferris wheel you've ever seen (that's made from sugar). Executive pastry chef Omar Martinez -- the man who created a 400-pound chocolate replica of a King Tut last year -- gets ready to do that feat one better with a nine-and-half-foot-tall, eight-foot-wide replica of the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier.

From the press release:

• The 380-hour culinary labor of love...took an estimated month and a half to complete and consists of the following ingredients:

• 250 lbs. of sugar on the main frame



• Each gondola, 42 in total, weighs 2 lbs., total of 84 lbs.



• Royal icing doubles as glue and hand rails



• 80 lbs. of pastelege used for the base of the wheel



• Miniature golf course is completely made of sugar and consists of an additional 200 lbs. of sugar



• Edible food coloring utilized on all sugar components

But easy there, Little Chrissy--this dessert's strictly for looking at, so no chewing on those gondolas.

So, how was your Monday? We don't know about you, but we could use a big laugh right about now. Good thing the Chicago Improv Fest starts this week with a kickoff tonight at the Chicago Cultural Center (OK, so it's not Zanies, but we'll take it.)

But this just in: SNL's Amy Poehler will rejoin Upright Citizens Brigade on Saturday at the Park West, according to the CIF's site.  (Looks like tix are still available, too!) You can also catch her Weekend Update co-host Seth Meyers Thursday at the Athenaeum. Get more details about CIF here.

Lunch at Smoque
You can bone us anytime, Smoque BBQ. But it was your vinegary sauce we couldn't get enough of--in fact, we may have found our new summer shot (yes, we drank it straight--got a problem with that?). And 'cue-o-philes must be getting the word out--who was the guy wearing the Twin Anchors t-shirt?

Brunch at Aigre Doux
The first weekend for the new brunch menu felt scattered--and short-staffed. But that prosciutto eggs benedict? Lovely. Still, you may want to wait until the sidewalk cafe opens in May to check out this brunch. (Or, just go for dinner instead.)

Dinner at Boka
New chef Guiseppe Tentori worked at Charlie Trotter's down the street; it shows--the food was delish (but expensive). Too bad some of the loud, shrieking patrons in the dining room Saturday night also seemed to be imported from down the street -- like maybe Trixie hang Tilli's.

Another week, another powerful Hollywood pair feels the wrath of "Disturbia." Shia LaBeouf's teen thriller topped the box office once again, bringing in $13.5 million. It was enough to beat out the Ryan Gosling-Anthony Hopkins legal thriller "Fracture," which earned $11.2 million to place second during a relatively low-earning weekend at the box office. (The previous weekend's runner-up was the Halle Berry-Bruce Willis vehicle "Perfect Stranger.") No worries; we're just happy to see audiences turning out to see two equally worthwhile flicks. (We awarded both 3 stars.) What movies did you see this weekend? Or were you too busy enjoying the nice weather to bother sitting in a dark theater?

We just posted our First Look at The Gage, the new gastropub in the Loop, directly across from Millennium Park. (Read the full review here.) Take a look at some of the dishes sampled:

	This fancy fondue is part of The Gage snack menu ($4-13),  a collection of nibbles that are great for a light afterwork bite. The N-17 Fondue is made with butterkase (a creamy German country cheese), brie and spinach. Served in a little cassoulet pot, it's a definite crowd-pleaser. The name N-17 is an homage to a higway in owner Billy Lawless's hometown of County Galway, Ireland.
	We also liked the extra effort the kitchen took with the olive and pickles, ($4) served in a tiny Mason jar with a couple of springs of rosemary, plus an aromatic orange peel--nice touch.
	Sorry so blurry (hey, I'm trying to be discreet with this camera; no flash!), but the mussels ($10) were a bit of of a letdown anyway; the menu described the broth as a Vindaloo sauce, but it lacked that characteristic fire.
	For dessert, we loved the peanut butter mousse ($6) because it was served with peanut-buttery, ersatz Kit Kat wafers.

More Gore

Al Gore keeps yakking about how inconvenient the truth is, but as far as we can tell, it couldn't be easier to catch the eco-crusader's Oscar-nominated "An Inconvenient Truth." Just drop in for a screening this weekend at Movie Night at the Biograph. The Biograph's ongoing movie series highlights films that share themes with Victory Gardens Theater productions; the eco-flick relates to current stage show "Cynical Weathers," which explores global warming.

Green glass

Green wine? Sorry, we draw the line at green beer-and even then, we try to limit our consumption to the third week in March. What's that? Oh ... green wine. Now there's something we should be able to get behind. See if the green stuff suits your tastes at an Organic Wine Tasting and Seminar with sommelier James Kenna. In addition to sipping red and white wines from across the globe, you'll nibble on organic breads and cheeses. 1 p.m. Sunday. $10. Proceeds benefit the Green City Market. RSVP required: jen@brguestrestaurants.com.

Do people laugh at you for always ordering that fruity cocktail? Well, now you can laugh at them: Researchers have found that a splash of alcohol boosts antioxidant nutrients in berries and colored fruit. See, drinking really is good for you. We're on top of the watermelon cocktail trend and have rounded up a bunch of spots to drink pink-and apparently be healthy. Hey, who are we to argue with scientists?

Didn't have $26 to see the Decemberists at Riviera? Well, problem solved! Metro announced today that the band will play a free show July 18 in Millennium Park's Jay Pritzker Pavilion. It's all part of the Wrigleyville venue's 25th anniversary. But why aren't they having the show at the Metro, you ask? Because the Portland five-piece will be accompanied by the Grammy-nominated, 82-piece Grant Park Orchestra, which will provide orchestral arrangements to the songs. Sounds fun to us, but we wonder: Does this sound like a wee bit over the top to you?

Funky Buddha's nextdoor's sibling is -- finally -- ready to emerge! Butterfly Social Club, the long-delayed all-organic, environmentally conscious venue, is aiming to open Saturday, just in time for Earth Day on Sunday. Inside, you'll find faux trees (with real leaves!) crafted from mud, sand, clay and straw "growing" from of the wall.  When we checked out the space last year, it even smelled a little earthy. At this new spot, you can snuggle in your own little beeswax-coated "treehouse" nook while scoping the space for recycled materials, such as the mirrored mosaic butterflies. Solar power will keep the lights going and the turntables spinning while you sip chemical-free juices in this smoke-free club.

Got the pre-payday blues? Never fear, tonight we've got you covered with a free screening of "How to Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (and Enjoy It)," an affectionate documentary (well, hagiography might be more accurate) honoring filmmaker Melvin Van Peebles. Our suggestion? Check out the film--which originally screened as part of the 2005 Chicago International Film Festival--and then rent "Baadassss," Mario Van Peebles' (Melvin's son) excellent dramatization of the devotion it took his dad to make the 1971 surprise hit, "Sweet Sweetback's Baadassss Song."

 <--The spot: Amid the jumble of restaurants on Clark Street in Lakeview, the relatively new Radhuni Indian Kitchen offers a mix of cuisine from Bangladesh and Northern India. Tandoor classics like the chicken ($7.95/$12.95) and fish ($13.95), a Bangladeshi specialty, arrive sizzling and perfectly seasoned. For another taste of Bangladeshi cuisine, owner Sayeed Ahmed recommends biryani, made with basmati rice, saffron shrimp, lamb, chicken and vegetables ($10.95). A variety of curry dishes and 13 types of bread and naan fill out the menu.

<--The bottle: Nearby Binny's Ivanhoe Castle  offers plenty of the usual spicy-food suspects, including gruner veltliners, sauvignon blancs and rieslings. But for something just a little different, go for a torrontes, a white grape originally from Spain that's now grown widely in Argentina. Binny's offers torrontes from six different producers, but we always grab a bottle of Crios de Susana Balbo ($14.99), which   delivers fruitiness with a hint of sweetness; look for rose petals on the nose and minerality on the finish.

--Allison Knab, metromix special contributor

Can't you just feel spring is ready to, well, spring? Sure, it's just a little chilly right now, but temps are predicted to sneak into the 70s this weekend. Are you ready? Or Wednesday mega issue is!

Alfresco: You won't believe all of the reasons we have to look forward to alfresco season.

Reader Reviews: Like to drink outside? Be a Beer Garden Guide

Dining: Earth Day is Sunday; where to eat green

Music: Take it outside! Biggest summer concerts

Bars: This season's hottest cocktail flavor is...

To get you psyched for Earth Day this weekend, we've just posted a story about how Chicago chefs are using local and organic products. But the main course is Sunday: Do you know where you'll be?

Here's a quick look at six Earth Day events this weekend:

Trashy: Get Trashed on Earth Day

Yummy, crunchy: Green Scene

Mega: Green Festival

Urban: Earth Day Clean-up and Celebration in Humboldt Park

Suburban: Earth Day Festival in Oakbrook (Please, take the train.)

Well, a little bit of a stretch, but we'll take it: Earth Month Celebration at Eshe Day Spa and Salon

Mojito Contest Video UPDATE:

Last month, Nacional 27 sent out a press release trumpeting the sale of what it claimed was its 250,000th mojito. This pan-Latin spot, which is still still-hot-as-habanero on weekends, opened in December, 1998 when the sugary, minty rum drink was still a novelty--and way before things like flavored mojito flights (which Nacional serves) hit menus. Pomegranate-ginger-chile mojito, anyone?

But look out, Nacional: Carnivale has you on the rum, er, run. Open since September, 2005, tonight it kicks off a three-day celebration featuring dinner specials, live music and more in anticipation of the sale its100,000th mojito, which it is likely to be sold on Thursday. To get ready, tonight "Bacardi girls"  push around a "Mojito 101 cart," giving out samples (no, those wont count towards the 100,000), and there will  be a mojito making contest for you amateur muddlers. (Six finalists will return on Wednesday to be judged by celebrity a celebrity panel including Metromix's Karen Budell.) On Thursday, the restaurant will hold a drawing for a trip to Miami, which is pretty close to Cuba, we guess.

So alright, our question to you is: Whose mojito has mo' going on? Nacional 27 or Carnivale? Tell us your fave.

Is it just us, or is that a 60-foot inflatable black phallus sitting in front of the Equitable Building (401 N. Michiagan Ave.)? What's that you say? It's supposed to be a bottle of Axe "bodyspray"? Oh, same difference. The "men's grooming product legendary for helping guys get girls" -- as its likes to refer to itself --is probably a little more "famed" for its juvenile marketing campaigns that stoke the fantasies of adolescent boys. But now the product takes things to a whole new level with this stunt -- that thing is five stories high after all. From 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. the inflatable, um, spray can will serve as Moonwalk inside of which "Axe Angels" will bounce up and down. (What's an Axe angel? "Think attractive girls," says the press release. Yeah, we'll think real hard.) But to add to some sort of -- we assume -- timely element to the stunt, a group of Chicago CPAs (get it? Tax Day? CPAs?) will join in the bouncy, bouncy fun. We hope they're wearing pocket protection.

Have you had a chance to check out the 23 Annual Chicago Latino Film Fest? How about the Chicago Palastine Film Fest? Both started on Friday, so time's running out. To get up to speed on what you're missing, check out "Metromix" on CLTV's Marcus Leshock preview  both:

Feeling a little smug because you're not part of the tax-procrastination set? (Don't worry, we won't tell anyone you only sealed your IRS-bound envelope at 3 a.m. this morning.) Even if you're still sorting through forms to meet Tuesday's deadline--that's right, slackers, the deadline has been extended--you should treat yourself to a moment of relaxation today. Head to River North spot Zocalo for specially priced entrees ($10.40 and $10.99-get it?). Each dish comes with a cocktail pairing, thank goodness. If that's not enough, get $5 house margaritas, too.

Find more tax day deals at:

• The Motel Bar



• The 200 East Supper Club



• McCormick & Schmick's



• Pops for Champagne



• O'Donovan's

Apparently that kid from "Holes" has more box office clout than Halle Berry and Bruce Willis combined. Shia LaBeouf's "Disturbia" took the top slot at the box office this weekend with $23 million, twice the $11.5 million, fourth place finish of the Berry-Willis thriller "Perfect Stranger." That sounds good to us--we liked "Disturbia" better. It also must me music to the ears of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, who just announced that LaBeouf will co-star with Harrison Ford in the next "Indiana Jones" flick. What do you think? Does Berry no longer draw a crowd to her movies? Is LaBeouf really a star on the rise?

Our suburban special contributor Lisa Arnett has just posted an interview with Vie's Paul Virant. After Food and Wine magazine named him one of 2007's best new chefs, Virant joined the ranks of Chicago's culinary stalwarts Rick Bayless, Gale Gand and Rick Tramonto, Grant Achatz and Bruce Sherman among others.


But I've been getting a funny reaction from my pals when I tell them that I just dined at the Western Springs restaurant. The first question isn't, "Oh, my God! How was it?" It's usually something like, "Oh, my God! How long did it take to get there?"


Geez, people. It's Western Springs, not Western Australia. We left our Lakeview pad at 8 p.m. and arrived in time for our 8:30 p.m. reservation. In fact, Vie is probably ahead of the game--our table was actually ready on time, which is more than I can say for some city hotspots lately. Though I suppose we won't earn any green stars from Al Gore for driving there -- the restaurant is, after all, just steps from the Western Springs Metra stop. Now for the better question: Is this place really worth the drive? Our answer: You bet your Mini it is. Vie lives up to the hype. Find out why after the jump.

The service is relaxed. "Well, it's a little suburban," my big-city buddy euphemized later, but no one had any complaints. The room's stylish blend of lofty and comfy holds its own against any restaurant in the country. The wine list is small enough that it's not intimidating, and it offers a pretty nice price ($9-$15 by the glass) and palate range. In the end, the tab can get pricey, but not out of control.

Virant's reputation for locally sourced, seasonal and organic ingredients is well deserved. You'll know the pedigree of every artichoke on this menu and -- here's to your health -- even the cocktail menu goes organic.

But, this chef isn't just about serving up just some do-gooder philosophy; his food is pretty darn delicious. Here are some of our faves:

	A yummy appetizer of house-cured duck breast served with Virant's famed pickling. In this case, cherries and leeks. ($12).
	The presentation wasn't much, but the pork loin milanese -- topped with an olive tapenade -- was a tender and juicy, served with braised chickpeas and picked garlic. ($26)
	Our favorite dish of the night was dessert: deep-fried bananas with a cocoa-banana ice cream ($8)
	Steamed olive oil cake with dried blood orange wheels was another standout dessert.

Yes, sometimes it snows in April. (Hey, isn't that Prince song from 1986?) And, yes, we'd rather it didn't. But just in case the weather doesn't break this weekend, we've got a solid backup plan: Park it in front of the big screen at the 23rd Annual Chicago Latino Film Festival. The 12-day fest boats a lineup of more than 100 shorts and features from around the world. Full schedule: latinoculturalcenter.org/Filmfest.

We don't know what we like more about Smelt Fest 2007, the kitsch or the fish. Get in touch with your Midwestern sensibilities Saturday -- and mark the start of the smelt season -- with a bus trip to Port Washington, Wis., for the 57th Annual American Legion Smelt Fry. Celebrate the tasty little cold-water fish all day long with breakfast at Shaw's Crab House, drinks en route to Wisconsin, a stop for lunch and, of course, all-you-can-eat smelt.

Searching for a great new neighborhood spot for Thai and sushi? So was I, so I checked out just-opened Lakeview joint Ta Tong, which delivers all the usual perks (Nearly all entrees under $10, BYOB with no corkage fee) without the hiccups of a new restaurant. (Married owners Ta and Tong Sricharoen also helmed recently closed North Park spot TomYum, so they know their stuff.)

While there were a total of only five customers on a cold, rainy night, service was friendly and attentive, and everything we ordered was warm and delicious--particularly the silghtly-spiced Crab Rangoon appetizer ($3.95) and the finely presented Basil Duck Stir-Fry ($8.95). We'll definitely be back the next time we want to grab some quick Thai food before a show at Schubas.

Last night we went to a back alley and picked up a stash of Cocaine. The energy drink, that is. Three cans, three kinds: Cocaine (full-throttle!), Cocaine Free (sugar-free) and Cocaine Cut (same flavor without "the burn").

Red Bull, Rockstar and Monster offer a big enough buzz in a can, so what does Cocaine have going for it? Other than an in-your-face name and tongue-in-cheek campaign seemingly aimed at a boozed up Jager-bombing crowd that would stupidly think drugs are cool, that is.

For one, it apparently packs more of a punch: 3 ½ bull heads according to the can. And, we hear-and will know soon enough after conducting our own taste test-that the original Cocaine drink creates quite a throat burn, simulating the effects of the drug.

Surely Nancy Reagan would just say no. Would you? Well, the FDA is-- at least to the marketing campaign of Redux Beverages LLC, which produces the energy drink.

If you've tried it, we want to know what you think. Still curious about Cocaine? Stone Lotus is hosting the official Chicago launch party on April 20.

Looking for a great place for a kangaroo burger? We just posted our First Look review of Hop Haus, the new gastropub from the folks behind Leona's, which opened Monday. If you're hungry for more, check out these extra photos:

	Those infamous spinach and artichoke fries, coated with a thick alfredo sauce
	The Kangaroo burger topped with roasted red peppers
	The French burger with balsamic-roasted onions and a bistro sauce
	The eclectic beer selection includes this quirky Wostyntje Mustard Ale, which has really does have slight hint of mustard.

OK, this just strikes us as funny: Playboy's April issue lists the top 10 steakhouses in America. Who comes out on top in Chicago? None other than Keefer's. Fair enough. But the meaty piece, written by Chicago Mag Senior Editor Jeff Ruby, says Keefer's represents a "A sleeker, more modern, more...yes, feminine steakhouse."

That's Playboy's emphasis, not ours.

Feminine? No wonder they loved it.

Speaking of Chicago Mag, if you haven't already, check out its must-have April issue listing the 21 best new restaurants. The most unexpected pick? Chef Dudley Nieto's latest, Xel-Ha. We say hell, yeah to that; the excellent, Yucatan-heavy menu deserves a bigger audience than it seems to have based on our visits.

Got a list of your own? Tell us your top 5 new restaurants in Chicago?

The wait is over! The Lollapalooza lineup has been announced. (Click here to read the entire lineup.)

Who are we excited about? Let's see: British soul singer Amy Winehouse, unconventional rockers TV on the Radio, dance party-starters LCD Soundystem (and yep, LCD fans, Daft Punk will be playing Lolla, too!) and reggae royalty offspring Stephen Marley. Kudos to organizers for bringing back Lollapalooza alums The Hold Steady, Cold War Kids, Soulive and Ghostland Observatory as well.

So what bands are you excited to catch at Lolla?

Sometimes, you've gotta have a deep-fried Twinkie at 3 a.m.We understand. Just don't go looking for one in Wicker Park anymore.

Swank Frank, beloved late-night purveyor of fried Twinkies and other not-so-swank post-bar food, has closed its doors, butcher-papered its windows and hung out signs announcing a move to Logan Square. Word is that Bank of America will take over the prime space in the historic Flat Iron building. Too bad we don't typically crave a new money market account at 3 a.m.

That's only the half of it. Next door at Filter, the comment box on the counter next to espresso machine bears a note with an ominous request: "Here at Filter, you're all family. So help us out and tell us if you would move with us to Milwaukee and Ashland? Love, The Filter Staff."

We'll keep you posted. In the meantime, what do you think? Are you ready to move south with Filter? Will Swank Frank be the same when you have to cab your drunk ass over to Logan Square for a fried Twinkie?

We've all heard the chatter about Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz saying he'd kiss boys, well, now The Advocate has an interview with the local rocker talking about his "big gay following."

Wentz even gives his home town a shout-out: "...I have a couple friends from New York and Chicago that are gay."

We bet we know just where they like to hang, too. We've been to Lakeview Broadcasting Company on at least two or three occasions (the spot celebrates its first anniversary this month, by the way) and spotted the bassist hanging out with his crew and/or DJing at this rock lounge, which draws a decent-sized gay crowd thanks to its Boystown location. It's a refuge to the rocker kids who'd rather rip out their piercings than camp it up to Ethel Merman videos down at Sidetrack.

In fact, the staff at LBC is outfitted with threads from the rocker's Clandestine clothing line.

The spot: Brightening up an otherwise nondescript corner of western Armitage Avenue with sunny red and orange walls and a friendly staff,  Atlas Cafe's a nice place to take a break for sandwiches and wraps, salads or pasta. Fresh ingredients make picks like the smoked turkey wrap with avocados, provolone, red onions and tomatoes ($5.99) a good bet, and the meaty French fries (75 cents) are worth adding on as a side.  Semi-international options include chicken Vesuvio ($9.99), kabobs ($9.99-$11.99), and veggie or beef empanadas ($2.99)

The bottle: Liquor store pickings in the area are scant. Head to Provenance Food & Wine, a nearby  gourmey grocery, to check out their extensive selection of Belgian beers-the very raspberry Framboise ($13.99) is a good springtime match for Atlas' sandwiches, but plenty of other choices are available. Note: Atlas charges a $1.50 corkage fee per person. And if you check it out on Saturdays, Provenance hosts a free wine tasting in the afternoon.

--By Allison Knab, metromix special contributor

Are you ready to rock? We are! And that's not all: Check out our Wednesday megaissue:

Rock 'N' Vote finalists: Plus, get details on the FREE Rock 'n' Vote show at Double Door

What are they smokin'? From the wood to the sauce, the lowdown on Chicago barbecue

Met his batch? Delilah's Mike Miller rolls out the barrel on his very own bourbon brand

Music:  Oasis hates Klaxons. Klaxons don't care. Find out why

Tickets: The Fray, The Warped Tour, Stevie Nicks, more

Theater: "The Color Purple" opens; Julia Sweeney laughs at death

We just posted a story in the dining section about barbecue in Chicago. It's called "Give us the finger-lickin'". It seemed like an appropriately pugnacious headline for a story about 'cue. In fact, you'll find a video clip from CLTV's "Metromix" in the story with a great quote from Barry Sorkin from Smoque: "You get a level of passion that you don't get about any other type of food. People fight about barbecue," he says. True enough. But why? What exactly is it about barbecue that makes people so passionate?

The cicadas are coming! The cicadas are coming! After a 17 year hiatus, those buzzing, swarming, downright annoying lil' creatures are slated to return to Chicago beginning in late May, say bug experts.

We can't wait: Them's good eating.

No, really: When they invaded the East Coast in 2004, clever restaurants and bars made the most of it, putting critters into candies and naming cocktails with them. Whether eating them whole or baking them into cookies, there's a long history to the tradition, according to Web site Cicadamania.com. (The National Geographic news also has posted a story about snacking on cicadas.)

So will you indulge in a cicada this summer? Be careful: In 2004, researchers at the University of Cincinnati found high levels of mercury in the crop. 

This just in: Set your TiVos to record "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" Tuesday. Moto's gastro-wizard Hamoro Cantu will wow the daytime yakker with his signature style. From the Ellen web site: "Considered one of America's most daring chefs, Cantu cooks with elements such as liquid nitrogen, helium and a laser. Don't miss this modern 'techno-chef' in full force!" We can't see to see what he zaps up for her. But we've got to wonder what's next: Grant Achatz on "Maury"? Jean Joho on "Oprah"? And speaking of chefs and talk shows, is that uber-yakker Rachel Ray's talk show still on the air? If so, has she stopped screaming directly at the camera?

You can't stop progress. That's what Papa Milano's owner Rosemarie Sciaccotta is finding out. The Gold Coast restaurant started by the 66-year-old's grandfather Ralph "Papa" Amodeo in 1951 (though an even earlier incarnation started in 1933 at Diversey and Clark Streets) looks like it's had its final reprieve. It's to close May 15 to make way for development. "Oh, honey, it's like losing my parents again," says Sciaccotta. Her son, John, an attorney, puts his own spin on the situation. "We're no closing," he says. "We're just moving to a new location." He says they hope to remain in the 'hood.

Other merchants on the block, including Sarah's Candies, have until September. Sarah Levy--the talented young candymaker behind Sarah's Candies -- admits she's a bit sore after investing cash into improving her business's physical space. Naturally, however, she's decided to make her parting a bit more sweet. Sarah's will be offering coupons as part of a first-day-of-the-month special to count down to the move.  On May 1 stop in for $4 chicken pesto or turkey sandwiches. June 1 get a $3 tart. July 1 get a $2 cupcake. August 1 get a $1 chocolate chip cookie. After that, well, you'll have to see her -- hopefully -- at a new location. Like Sciaccotta, she hopes to reopen nearby.

In any case, they're not alone. South Sider favorite Jimbo's is also set to close at the end of April:

It's official: As we mentioned here last week: Boystown's small plate spot X/O Chicago is closing Apr. 22. It will relaunch around Mother's Day as Halsted's Bar & Grill. "The research we have done has shows that the majority [of customers] consider us to be a special occasion destination," says owner Mark Liberson. So he's taken things down a notch. Read: More deep fried stuff and way more cheese.

OK, truthfully, the menu still sounds kind of fancy, but in that glammed-up comfort food sort of way. Get this: there are 18 -- count 'em 18 -- appetizers planned. They include beer-battered onion rings, grilled polenta with melted leeks, and shitake mushrooms topped with melted bleu cheese, baked feta with roasted red peppers and olives; three types of seasoned French fries, and baked mac and cheese made with aged cheddar. The menu also lists six salads, 17 kinds of sandwiches (served with Tater Tots, veggies or slaw), pastas, and entrees (the pan-seared meatloaf with parsnip mashed potatoes sounds like a must-try.)

Another innovation: Liberson's touting "Halsted Street's first ever video jukebox system." (We're not entirely sure what that is, but we assume he's not counting the ones down the street at The Ram.)

Look for more details on this spot soon.

They rocked, you voted! Metromix readers clicked away, registering nearly 64,000 online votes and text messages to let us know which of the 10 Rock 'n' Vote finalists they wanted to see play a free show April 26 at Double Door. Want to know which four bands  came out on top? Sorry, our lips are sealed until Wednesday. In the meantime, read about all the finalists, look at photos and listen to their mp3s.

Wouldn't you think exciting commercials the Quentin Tarantino name would be enough to get people to see "Grindhouse"? We did too. We were wrong. The auteur was flopping down the bunny trail this Easter weekend. His three-hour collaboration with Robert Rodriguez only took in $11.6 million over the weekend, ranking it fourth behind "Blades of Glory," "Meet the Robinsons," and, gulp, "Are We Done Yet? " Maybe viewers weren't willing to take three hours to see two directors show their love for '70s exploitation flicks, or maybe people wanted something less bloody over the Easter weekend (or at least "Passion of the Christ" on DVD). We don't know. All we know is that we loved the twisted, sexy, gruesomely entertaining flick.

Global warming? We're not about to get all Ann Coulter on you, but right now Al Gore seems about as believable as the Easter bunny! I mean, tomorrow's Easter and we're sitting here freezing our eggs off. We'd kill for a little climate change right about now. Well, we can't do jack about the frost, but we can help you find three great ways to get your mind off the chill:

1. They say laughter is the best medicine, but can it cure a serious case of the what-the-heck-happened-to-spring blues? Find out at The Edge $3,500 Comedy Contest. Aspiring comics compete in this 13-week elimination tournament, with the winner of the June 17 finals taking home $2,000. (The second-place finisher nabs $1,000; third place, $500.)

2. R.I.P. "American Idol," you've officially jumped the shark. It's time to get back to basics, and in this town, that means the blues. Hear some of the city's best this weekend at the Old Town School of Folk Music's Tribute to Big Bill Broonzy, a bluesman and friend of the school in its early years. (He even played there on opening night in 1957.) The lineup includes Guy Davis, Ella Jenkins, Devil in a Woodpile and others.

3. You can warm your heart at this wine tasting for a good cause. Support mentoring program Jumpstart and taste six wines-three whites and three reds-this weekend at Uncork with Hopscotch. Wine's not your thing? Sip drinks from an open bar of draft beer and well drinks. Plus, score raffle prizes and gift bags. Info and tickets: hopscotchnetwork.org/chicago.html.

Changes are definitely in store for the Cubs, but when it comes to the Wrigleyville crowd, one thing never changes: Booze at the bar beats a glass of wine on the patio any day.

At least that appears to be the lesson now that Vines on Clark, from the folks behind the adjacent Cubby Bear is getting ready to unveil a new look. After a brief hiatus, it reopens for Monday's home opener with downshifted focus that gives this erstwhile enoteca a sporty makeover--they've installed around a dozen flat screens, and moved the bar from the back to the front to make it the main attraction.

The menu's more casual, too: think sandwiches, pastas, appetizers and pizzas, including one with a quirky twist-the pepperoni pizza soup served in a bread bowl and topped with mozzarella cheese. No doubt specials like $1 Bacardi cocktails on Mondays will score big with sportos, too. Vines still offers about 20 wines by the bottle or glass, with bottles going for half-price on Wednesdays.

Alfresco seating is available on the rooftop and a street-level patio, plus plans are in store to open a beer garden in the south parking lot this summer.

Some folks go to church, others just do brunch. But if you ask us, Easter's only about two things: bunnies and beer. So what could be more perfect than the Blue Moon Bunny Hop Pub Crawl tonight? The crawl includes Blue Moon and Coors Light drafts, a buffet at each bar and trolley transportation between locations. Start your romp at any participating bar: McGee's. Wrightwood Tap. Durkin's, Duffy's, or Redmond's.

On Sunday, you could rise at the crack of dawn, don your Easter best and head to church. But Sunday is a holiday, after all, and holidays are for sleeping in. When you finally roll out of bed, swing by Houndstooth Saloon for the Easter Brunch Pajama Jam, featuring $5 brunch entrees, plus drink specials like $3 mimosas and $4 bloody marys. And, yes, PJs are perfectly acceptable attire.

Want more? Check our Chicago Easter Brunch Guide

Bad news, indie fans. Chicago Tribune's Gret Kot reports on his blog that the Intonation Music Festival will not return this summer. But it's no reason to go all tearful and emo; check out the lineup for July's Pitchfork fest.

Last night I had the honor of being on the judging panel for the "Purrfect Martini" contest at Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club.

More than 100 cocktail recipes were sent in by Metromix readers and viewers, and Kit Kat customers. My fellow judges and I had the excruciating task of tasting each of the five finalists' entries to decide on a winner. (Oh, what it's a tough job I have!)

5^th place went to Kandy, created by Courtney Vanderwoude. Her fruity sipper was made with Absolut Citron, Absolute Pear, triple sec, melon liqueur, amaretto, splash of cranberry juice and a blue sugar rim.

4^th place went to Aurturo Correa's To The Moon: Absolut Citron, wild strawberry and melon liqueurs, a splash of simple syrup and -- talk about a blast -- a PopRocks candy rim.

3^rd place went to one of my favorite names, Violet Beauregaurd. Michael Volk's drink took its name from  Willy Wonka's gum-snapping brat who gets turned into a life-sized blueberry. The recipe included Absolut Citron, triple sec, Razzmatazz, blueberry puree and a lemon twist. (Thankfully, Volk resisted adding Violet's beloved bubblegum to this mix.)

2^nd place was The Pom Pom: Metromix reader Courtney Rickard gave us something to cheer about with her blend Absolute Citron, pomegranate liqueur, triple sec, pomegranate juice, sparkling soda, lemon and lime juice, and a splash of tea, garnished with a lemon twist.

And, drumroll please, the grand prize winner was...

Susann Fangman's Ru-Tin Tu-tin, made with Absolut, Starbucks Liqueur, a splash of green crème de menthe, a splash of cream and a cocoa rim.

The Southern belle, originally from Kentucky, told us this was based on a family recipe, which uses Kahlua in place of Starbucks, a new liqueur, relatively speaking. The lucky lady won a trip for two to Las Vegas, and, her drink will be on the Absolut VIP martini list at Kit Kat for one year. You can swing by and request your Ru-Tin Tu-tin today-it costs $11.50.