Lobster on the menu this month in Chicago

June 1, 2011

In Maine, I hear lobsters are as prevalent as chicken. Summer rentals in Ogunquit and Saco promise not only A/C and whirlpools, but lobster pots as well. Don't worry if you can't make it to the East Coast this summer, there are plenty of tasty options right here in Chicago this month and next. The Four Seasons Hotel is offering a variety of lobster events and specials: 

Lobster Boil Fridays in Seasons Lounge
Executive Chef Kevin Hickey creates a three-course culinary journey that celebrates lobster enjoyed the Spanish, Vietnamese and American way. Cost is $48 per person (minimum 2 people). The lobster will be served family-style in the middle of the table with bibs, crackers and all the condiments to enjoy a lobster boil.

Friday, June 3: Lobster Spain
Salmorejo (Chilled Tomato Fondue with Fresh Cheese) with Crispy Eggplant
Lobster “Cazuela” Chorizo, Piquillo Peppers, Fava Beans, Razor Clams and Saffron Broth
Torrijas Custard Soaked Bread Cooked in Caramel with Cinnamon Ice Cream

Friday June 10: Lobster Vietnamese
Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce
Lobster “Pho” Culantro, Basil, Sea Beans, Limes, Pork Belly, Homemade Chili Sauce, Noodles
Vietnamese Coffee

Friday, June 17: Lobster American
Wedge of Bibb Lettuce, Maytag Blue Cheese and Spicy Tomato Vinaigrette, Duck Fat Onion Rings
Maine Lobster Boil Sweet Corn, Fingerling Potatoes, Homemade Andouille Sausage and Cockles, Buttermilk Biscuits and Old Bay Butter
Strawberry Shortcake with Rhubarb Sorbet

30 Great Wines for $30 for 30 Days:
During the 30 days of June, Seasons Bar and Lounge showcases 30 wines for $30 per bottle, all month long. For additional information, call 312-649-2349.
 
If that's not enough lobster for you, Shaw's Crab House in Chicago and Schaumburg are also getting in on the lobsterfest. All of June and July, special lobster menu items are offered such as a traditional East Coast Lobster Boil that includes a one-pound whole Maine lobster, corn-on-the-cob, red bliss potatoes and coleslaw for $23.99. For a quick bite, try Shaw’s Original Lobster Roll, a classic New England recipe, loaded with Maine lobster meat brimming from a griddled bun, served with waffle-cut chips and a dill pickle.
 
For additional information about the Four Seasons events call 312-573-5231 and for information about Shaw's Crab House call (312) 527-2722.
 
- Kristen Kuchar