Lidia & I Visit Chicago!
by Cody Hogan
I never thought I would see Lidia wait on line for 30 minutes in the 20-degree Chicago weather, but a few weeks ago, while we were in Chicago raising money for WTTW, the public television station, this is exactly what happened. Whenever Lidia and I travel, our culinary curiosities take us far and wide, seeking out the best that the city we are in has to offer; whether refined dining or local food landmarks like Hot Doug’s, a hot-dog-only eatery near the WTTW station. We started with the basic hot dog in 2 versions, steamed vs. grilled- the steamed won with sauerkraut and ketchup. Then we had a Thia Chicken Dog with seaweed salad and sriracha sauce, and an Elvis dog, smoked Polish sausage with relish and mustard. There was a very communal-friendly feel, lots of exchanges between guests about what they liked about which particular dog. Here are some fun photos from our Hot Doug experience. Hope you enjoy!
December 31st, 2008 at 9:40 pm
I recently went to Kansas City for a week for training. The restaurant was so beautiful, the waitstaff was incredibly informative & helpful, but I have to say when we saw Grappa on the menu in different flavors we were in awe!! We tried the Spice Grappa & it was to die for. You also have several other types f infusions of Grappa. Can you share with us the recipe(s), (if only the Spice that’s okay!!), for these wonderful concoctions?
Forever grateful,
Debbie
January 6th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
1/6/09 Hi Cody, Thanks for the candid shots and report on eating hot dogs — one of my favorites if done well. I love seeking out those specialty spots where the food is to die for! You and Lidia look like you are braving the icy chills of Chicago, but it’s a great shot of you both. Stay warm. Thanks for sharing.
I always enjoy your spots on Lidia’s TV shows. You exude a quiet confidence which is very attractive.
A very Happy New Year to you and your family. Joan, Lidia’s friend in Southern California
January 10th, 2009 at 9:11 am
Hi Cody, I injoyed the pictures of you and Lidia in Chicago and always enjoy when you are on Lidia’s Italy . My birthday is in March and I can not wait because my husband is bringing me to the restaurant in Kansas City. What would be your recomendations, it all sounds wonderful
Thanks, Cathy
February 1st, 2009 at 6:40 pm
I’m originally from New York City and haven’t tried any of the restaurants that Lidia owns. I’ve been living in the Chicago area for the last 2 1/2 years and I must say you need to open a restaurant here in the Chicago. I’m a regular watcher of Lidia’s cooking programs and I love they way she cooks and I know her food is good by the way she presents herself and very inspiring when watching her trips to Italy and learning alot of history and seeing her children being very active in her passion for life and food. When I go back to NY I will definately go to one of the restaurants that Lidia owns and bring some friends and family. Lidia please keep the cooking programs coming because I’m watching 2 PBS channels throughout the weekends and love watching you cook.
Thanks,
Heidi
May 8th, 2009 at 10:39 am
Whats Up Codi
Glad to see were ever you go you always seem to find the best food. I hope all is going well and the restaurant is packed. Ill be up 5-24-09 for the awesome brunch hope to see you their.
Later
Nathan Toubia
September 14th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Codi- Cant wait to meet you in person! I will be joining the team in Kansas for my externship later this month! You are all amazing and inspire me to keep my dreams alive!
Tamara Riblett -Seattle WA