Blog

If you’ve got a pal on your list that is hard to shop for, we’re here to help.  You can never go wrong with a box of chocolates for gift giving, and since today is National Chocolate Covered Anything Day, we’ve got a list of great local candy shops!  Give your loved ones something sweet to look forward to for the holidays. Why not try your hand at making your own chocolates? We’ve gathered some easy to make recipes and moulds to make your own candy!  Treat your loved ones or yourself this Christmas with these beautiful goodies. more Local Chocolatiers and Candy Shops with Chocolate In Greater Chicago Area and Wisconsin IT’S SUGAR in Gurnee Mills Cora Lee Candies Inc in Glenview The Chocolate Sanctuary in Gurnee Desiree Chocolates in Northbrook Uniquely Sweet in Grayslake Toffee Traditions LLC in Highwood Sweet’s in Lake Forest Long Grove Confectionery and Chocolate Tour in Buffalo Grove Belgian Chocolatier Piron, INC in Evanston Poparrazzi Gourmet Treats in Waukegan Something Sweet in Antioch The Chocolate Sanctuary in Gurnee Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates in Chicago Chocolat Uzma in Chicago Veruca Chocolates in Chicago Royce’s Chocolate in Downtown Chicago Katherine Anne Confections in Chicago Leonidas Cafe Chocolaterie in Chicago Fazio’s Chocolate in Elm Grove, WI Ultimate Confections in Wauwatosa, WI Kilwins Lake Geneva in Lake Geneva, WI Allo! Chocolate in Waukesha, WI Puna Chocolate Company in Wauconda La Macaron in Brookfield, WI DIY Chocolates DIY Chocolate Truffles Easy Homemade Filled Chocolate Candies How to Make Moulded Chocolates 3 Ingredient Homemade Chocolate Bars Homemade Chocolate Candy Cups Kid Friendly Chocolate Candy Recipe Homemae Chocolates in the InstaPot Car Themed Candy and Chocolate Moulds Silicone Chocolate Moulds Car Shaped Hard Plastic Mould Silicone Muffin and Candy or Cake Tray Silicone Candy Molds by Wilton

Today is National Hot Chocolate Day!  In celebration of this classic wintertime treat, and our love of shopping local businesses, we’re highlighting the best places locally to snag a cup of cocoa or custom hot chocolate bombs.  And plenty of fun things for home and your car with hot chocolate themes! more Where to Get Best Hot Chocolate in Local Chicago Area The Chocolate Sanctuary in Gurnee Gojos Cafe & Pancake House in Waukegan Coffee Break & Lunch in Waukegan Leonidas Chocolate Cafe in Northbrook Puna Chocolate Company in Wauconda Kroll’s Fall Harvest Farm in Waukegan Kilwins in Evanston Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Libertyville Drip and Culture in Waukegan Leonidas Cafe Chocolaterie in Chicago Morkes Chocolates in Palatine Mindy’s Bakery in Chicago Katherine Anne Confections in Chicago XO Marshmallow in Chicago Its All Good Coffee & Espresso in Zion Car Themed Mugs and More for Your Hot Chocolates Oil Drum Gas Pump Ceramic Mug Monopoly Car Sculpted Ceramic Mug Tire Coffee Mug with Wrench Tire Coffee Travel Cup 11oz Miniature Chocolate Cars Race Car Chocolate Covered oreos Untamed Drinking Chocolate Hot Chocolate Scented Items For Your Car Mexican Hot Chocolate Air Freshener and Odor Eliminator for Cars Milk Chocolate Air Freshener for Car Box of Chocolates Air Freshener and Odor Eliminator for Cars Cocoa Mog Car Freshie

It’s National Brownie day, yum!! We’re celebrating with a list of local community bakeries, great brownie recipes, and fun baking pans shaped like cars that you can serve those delicious recipes in.  Ready those engines and get in gear for the best holiday baking ideas on today’s blog. more Best Local Bakeries Serving Up Delicious Brownies Sweet Mandy B’s Bakery at 1208 W Webster Avenue, Chicago Bridgeport Bakery 2.0 at 2907 S Archer Avenue, Chicago Dinkel’s Bakery 3329 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago Skinny Piggy Bakery at 1438 W Cortland Street, Chicago Jennivee’s Bakery at 3301 N Sheffield Avenue, Chicago Molly’s Cupcakes at 419 E Illinois Street in Suite 120, Chicago Goddess and the Baker, Wabash at 33 S Wabash Avenue, Chicago Defloured: A Gluten Free Bakery at 1477 W Balmoral Avenue, Chicago Vanille Patisserie at 2108 N Clark Street, Chicago Panaderia La Azteca at 814 10th Street, Waukegan Shril’s Drive-In Waukegan at 2132 N Lewis Avenue, Waukegan Dockside Ice Cream at 38 E Madison Street, Waukegan Tute’s Bakery and Taqueria 15 623 W Greenwood Avenue, Waukegan O Brothers Bakery at 2820 Belvidere Road, Waukegan Tina’s Italian Bake Shop 5101 Washington Street Suite 14A, Gurnee Blissful Brownies at 28566 Ballard Drive, Lake Forest Best Brownie Recipes Love & Lemons Best Homemade Brownies Cafe Delites World’s Fudgiest Brownies Inspired Taste Cocoa Brownies Once Upon a Chef’s Supernatural Brownies Gluten Free on a Shoestring GF Brownies My GF Kitchen’s Best Ever Chewy Brownies The Absolute Best Vegan Brownies The Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies Peppermint Mocha Brownies Holiday Tree Brownies Warm Chocolate-Nut Brownies One Bowl White Chocolate Brownies White Chocolate Blondies Simple Vegan Brownies from Minimalist Baker Great Baking Tins with Car Shape These amazon silicone car molds for baking would be perfect for XL brownies and fudge cake recipes. Yum! This great two pack of mini silicone chocolate car molds for cake, jello, candy and more!  Would also be a great way to make brownie bites or chocolate minis for cake decorating. For a little variety in your baking, try these clever little truck and car themed bakeware trays!  And buy an extra set for multipurpose use for crafting in addition to the ones used for baking.

We’re bringing you a calendar of family friendly holiday events and drive-through holiday lights in the Kenosha and Greater Chicago Area!  If you’ve got an upcoming event that our readers may be interested in, please post it in the comments section.  We’d love to share family-friendly events for inclusive festivities! more Santa’s Rock N Lights in Waukegan runs from November 21st 2021 through Sunday January 2nd 2022 between 5PM and 9PM. Price ranges from $19.99 to $34.99 per vehicle. Book in advance for the Northbrook “Let it Shine” Drive Through Light Show on weekday evenings.  $29.99 admission per car for a family friendly drive-through festive experience! Click here to book a time and date. The Willow Hills Winter Magic Drive Thru Christmas Experience at Willow Hill Golf Course is running from November 20th 2021 through January 2nd 2022 between the hours of 4:30PM and 10:30PM. Book an admission experience right here. All ages and family friendly! Enjoy a beautiful family friendly holiday light experience at the Magic of Lights in Milwaukee from November 24th 2021 through January 2nd 2022 between 5PM and 10PM. Buy your tickets and book a bundle package now. Friday December 4th from 12PM to 2PM, bring the whole family out for the Jewett Jingle Jam in Deerfield Park!  This is an open house activity including Hanukkah and Christmas activities and crafts, Winter festivities, a visit with Santa, Holiday Storytime and more! Open from ages 1 through 10 with accompanying adult; admission charged per child. On Friday December 10th from 4:30 to 5:30, make a stop off at the Kenosha IUptown Neighbourhood Library for a holiday lights themed craft session and festive activities for families.  Then you can follow it up with a local drive around town to view the festive decorations in the area! Registration for the event is required, and opens on 12/3 at 12PM via the Library. The Chanukkah Film Festival runs from November 28th through December 5th, and celebrates with 8 nights of movies with Menemsha Films with North Suburban Synagogue Beth El in Highland Park. Enjoy a painting session with friends from 6:30PM to 8PM at Bottle & Bottega of Chicago Lakeview with the Hanukkah Happy Hour Dreidel paint class. Book your spot now, space is limited. Head over to Split-Rail for their annual Hanukkah Dinner on Tuesday November 30th starting at 6PM.  Served family style, reservations are required - click here to book! On Wednesday December 15th from 7:30PM to 9PM, enjoy an evening of art and music with holiday favourites at the College of Lake County in Grayslake. More information on booking tickets and attending here. Book a ticket for your friends and family on December 17th or December 18th to the Holiday Ice Show at the RECPLEX Ice Arena in Pleasant Prairie, WI.  The Friday evening show begins at 6:30PM, and the Saturday evening show starts at 5:30PM. Click here to purchase tickets and learn more.

Feeling frantic with family and friends arriving soon?  Need some last minute pantry-friendly recipes?  Looking for something to entertain the kids?  We’re here to help!  We’ve got a great list of easy recipes made from pantry staples, along with activities to help keep kids entertained while you’re getting ready for guests today. Print out the coloring pages and activities, and set up a coloring and crafting table for some easy projects that are sure to entertain younger guests as well as adults.  Check it out on today’s blog for easy holiday entertaining! more Last Minute Thanksgiving Recipes with Pantry & Fridge Staples Forget to thaw the turkey?  Family members cancel at the last minute and you’re missing their famous sweet potatoes?  Forgot you volunteered to bring a dish?  We’ve got you covered with easy to make recipes that are ready in a pinch.  Yes, even easy enough to make on the day of Thanksgiving before guests arrive.  You can’t miss with this easy list of holiday favorites and staple Turkey Day Dinner classics.  We’ve even tossed in some no-cook appetizers if you’re running to the store this morning. Canned Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Crustless Pumpkin Pie with Canned Pumpkin No Cook Thanksgiving Appetizers Classic Green Bean Casserole Instant Pot Thanksgiving Recipes NY Times Last-Minute Thanksgiving Recipes Taste of Fall Salad 10 Minute Cous Cous Salad 10 Minute Vegan Chickpea Salad 10 Minute Creamy Cucumber Salad 15 min Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs Instant Baked Mashed Potatoes Instant Pot Stuffing Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce Instant Pot Turkey Gravy Instant Pot Thanksgiving Turkey Breast Coloring Pages and Crafts for Families Crayola’s Printable Thanksgiving Coloring Pages Free Printable Coloring Pages for Kids 45 Free Thanksgiving Coloring Pages for Kids and Adults Autumn and Fall Coloring Pages for Kids and Adults Fall Coloring Pages for Families Glued to My Crafts: Paper Plate Turkey Cars Kid Craft Toilet Paper Roll Car Craft from A Little Pinch of Perfect Blog​​​​​​​​​​​​ ​​ TLC Me Blog: Thanksgiving Handprint Turkeys TLC Me Blog: Turkey Pinecone Crafts

It’s National Espresso Day today, and we’re going to celebrate with our favourite local coffee shops and great portable gadgets for the office or your next road trip!  Go on and grab your fave cup o’ joe as you peruse our list, and let us know your faves in the comments.  We might just include your suggestion in an upcoming blog post!  And be sure to check out our picks for great portable coffee makers if you’re looking for travel-friendly holiday gifts. more Best Local Spots for Espresso Prairie Espresso + Wine Bar in Lake Bluff, IL Drip and Cultur in Waukegan, IL Hansa Coffee Roasters in Libertyville and Lake Bluff IL It’s All Good Coffee & Espresso in Zion, IL AREA Coffee in Mundelein, IL Tina’s Italian Bake Shop in Gurnee, IL Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea in Vernon Hills, IL Gurnee Donuts in Gurnee, IL Coffee Break and Lunch in Waukegan, IL Milkcow Cafe in Vernon Hills, IL Birdy’s Coffee House in Libertyville, IL Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters in Libertyville, IL Dalton’s Cakes in Grayslake, IL Something’s Brewing in Grayslake, IL Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe in Libertyville, IL He Brews Coffee Shop in Winthrop Harbor, IL The Buzz Cafe in Kenosha, WI Harborside Common Grounds in Kenosha, WI The Daily Dose Coffee in Kenosha, WI Wilson’s Coffee & Tea in Racine, WI The Grind Cafe in Racine, WI O&H Danish Bakery in Racine, WI Shirl’s Drive-In in Kenosha Portable Espresso Makers for A Caffeine Fix On the Go Portable Electric Coffee Machine by YaoTown via Wayfair Despise the office coffee pod machine?  We feel you!  For just $69.99, this budget friendly portable coffee machine makes frothy espressos for professional cafe style drinks in a pinch. ESPRO Travel Press 16oz Bottle via REI From road trips to camping to picnic lunches in the park, this is a great portable french press style espresso maker.  And with the low price of $49.95, it also makes a great gift for the travellers on your holiday shopping list. Simpresso Portable Espresso Maker via Crate and Barrel Perfect for camping, beach days, picnic brunches at scenic overlooks, or just a quick morning brew.  This is a shatterproof, lightweight, travel friendly option for brewing espresso with crema under $100.  With options to use pods (coffee grinds in a fabric teabag style) or your own fresh grounds, it’s a double-walled coffee carafe for every java junkie at just $79.99 The Wacaco Minipresso via Amazon This wallet friendly option offers coffee on the go compatible with Nespresso pods for no-fuss no-muss creamy espresso.  You can even drink it right from the “lid” for a portable cup!  Just add hot water and you're ready to roll.  It’s $59.95, too, making it great for those who are minding their pennies while saving up for their next road trip.  Perfect for camping, van life, and more!

We love supporting our neighbours in the area, and so we’re bringing you another great Local Eats Guide from Classic!  Take the stress out of Thanksgiving by Ordering a Dessert from these nearby Bakeries and Dessert Shops.  We recommend calling ahead to make sure they’ll have everything you need on Turkey Day. more Great Local Bakeries for Thanksgiving Desserts O  Brothers Bakery at 2820 Belvidere Road in Waukegan Tina’s Italian Bake Shop 5101 Washington Street in Gurnee Tony’s Bakery at 1117 Washington Street in Waukegan Tute’s Bakery & Taqueria at 623 W Greenwood Avenue in Waukegan The Authentic Cheese Bread Co at 3900 Washington Street in Gurnee Panaderia y Pasteleria Arizmendi at 808 W Glen Flora Avenue in Waukegan Gurnee Donuts 4949 Grand Avenue #9 in Gurnee Santa Anita Bakery at 701 Yeoman Street in Waukegan Rubi’s Bakery at 1703 Washington Street in Waukegan Illusion Bakery at 2110 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Nothing Bundt Cakes in Gurnee, Vernon Hills, Deerfield, Kenosha WI Lakebilly Pies in Lake County IL Elsie Mae’s Canning and Pies at 3203 52nd Street in Kenosha WI Oliver’s Bakery at 3526 Roosevelt Road in Kenosha WI Paielli’s Bakery at 6020 39th Avenue in Kenosha WI Sweet Something’s Pastries at 2542 18th Street in Kenosha WI Hoosier Mama Pie Company in Chicago Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits in Chicago First Slice Pie Cafe in Chicago Spinning J Bakery and Soda Fountain Main Street Bakery at 328 Main Street Bakery in Racine WI O&H Danish Bakery at 4917 Douglas Avenue in Racine WI Racine Danish Kringles at 2529 Golf Avenue in Racine WI Easy Pie Recipes To Try Easy All-Butter Flaky Pie Crust Pillsbury’s Perfect Apple Pie Country Apple Galette Nora Cooks Easy Vegan Pumpkin Pie Easy Pecan Pie Apple Pumpkin Galette Once you’ve secured the goods, you’ll need something to carry it in safely.  Why not try one of our recommended pie carriers to fit just about every budget! Great Gadgets for Carrying Pies on the Go The Sweet Creations Pie Carrier is just $12.99 and is a great choice for taking your Thanksgiving pies on the road! The LocknLock Pie Carrier with Handle is a fantastic option under $30 available from QVC. The Single Pie Basket is handcrafted and would make a great transport for your pie as well as a hostess/host gift for the holidays!  Gift the pie from your heart, and the carrier for just under $70. The Snap & Lock Pie Carrier is a fantastic budget friendly pie carrier that fits a variety of sizes of pie dish from 6” 8” or 9” and is priced under $200 Maybe you’re the family baker and you’ll be bringing multiple desserts for the whole crew!  You’ll definitely want this Pie Saver Carrier kit with room for 4 pies in disposable pie tins. It’s a pricier option on our list but worth the funds for convenience of all-in-one multiple pie transport.

We’re excited for all of the upcoming festivities during the holidays, and look forward to spending time with family and friends doing lots of fun things in the holiday spirit!  Here are some great ideas for ways to reconnect with family and friends and find some unique gifts.  We encourage our customers to shop small and support local artists, artisans, and small businesses this year.  Let’s spread some holiday cheer and the giving spirit, right here in our own backyard. more Check out these great markets, events, and activities in Southeast Wisconsin, Lake County, and the Greater Chicago Area! Your November and December Local Community Calendar On Tuesday November 9th, November 16th, and November 23rd from 10AM to 10:30AM, come over to the Kenosha Uptown Neighbourhood Library in Kenosha and enjoy a family story time for all children ages 2 and up.  Enjoy stories, singing songs, and lots of fun activities! Wednesday November 10th from 6:30PM to 8:30PM come out to Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie, WI and paint yourself a beautiful monogrammed piece of artwork for a holiday centerpiece! STarts at $38 per guest, supplies all included. On November 12th and 13th, get ready to rock your heart out at the Nightmare in November metalfest concert in Kenosha. Order your tickets here. Running from November 12th through January 2nd 2022, the Lightscape exhibit is a beautiful holiday lights spectacular at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, IL. Order your tickets and get more info right here! On November 13th, shop small and shop local at the Holiday Handmade Market at the Streets of Woodfield in Schaumberg from 10AM to 3PM. It’s a great way to support the community and find the most unique and beautiful gifts for loved ones! On November 13th, grab a ticket to the Lunar Tide Music and Arts Festival in Waukegan.  Event Runs from 7PM on Saturday through November 14th at 3AM. On Saturday November 13th from 3PM to 5PM, enjoy an afternoon of pumpkins and flowers in a painting class at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie! $38 per person with supplies included. On Friday November 19th starting at 8PM, enjoy an evening of wonderful music with Phil Vassar’s Piano Bar Tour!  An intimate showcase of this singer-songwriter’s best work with limited seating. Check for Tickets here. Open Nightly starting on November 20th and running through January 2nd 2022, the Willow Hill’s Winter Magic Drive-Thru Christmas Lights Experience is great fun for the whole family! Check this link for ticket timeslots and a calendar of availability. From November 20th through November 21st enjoy an evening of fine holiday shopping with local artisans and craftsmen at the Island Lake Holiday Art and Craft Faire. Forget about the stress of shipping holiday gifts and check out these local exhibitors and artists isntead! Admission is $1 and includes food booths and artist shopping stands. On Saturday November 20th at 2PM and a second performance at 6PM, head over to Genesee Theatre to enjoy a bit of holiday tidings with “A Charlie Brown Christmas” play!  It’s fun for the whole family; check availability of tickets here. Saturday November 20th from 11AM to 1PM bring your family and friends to paint a beautiful autumnal turkey for just $25 per person at a Pinot’s Palette painting class in Pleasant Prairie! On Saturday November 20th from 11AM to 12PM at the Civil War Museum in Kenosha, come and visit The Young History Heroes Storytime session for ages 4 through 8. A new hero will be highlighted every month!  “How Kate Warne Saved President Lincoln” will be the topic of 11/20’s session.  The following storytime will be December 18th! Enjoy the celebrations of “Long Grove Vintage Holidays” from 11:30AM through 6PM in Long Grove downtown! This free event first runs on November 20th and runs again every weekend from 11/21, 11/27, 11/28, 12/4, 12/5, 12/11, 12/12,12/18, and 12/19.  Enjoy caroling and vintage carriage rides for the whole family.  Event is free but registration is required On Sunday November 21st from 10AM to 3PM, The Vault Banquet Hall and The Pine Blossom have partnered up to host the Winter Wonderland in Kenosha! Come and visit for a little early holiday fun, and kids can even meet Santa from 12PM to 3PM. On Friday, November 26th from 4PM to 5PM, head over to the Kenosha Public Museum and enjoy the annual “Lightin’ Up” celebration and Christmas tree lighting ceremony downtown!  It’s a free holiday program for all to enjoy. On Friday November 26th, skip the shopping madness and opt into a quiet afternoon of fun with friends and family by painting a snowy moon and stars landscape.  Or paint a festive Christmas Tree rustic truck painting from 6:30PM to 8:30PM Just $38 per guest at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie. On Saturday November 27th from 4PM through midnight, come kick off the Holidays with the Holiday in the Park & Parade event in Glenview! Fun for all ages starting at Glenview road and going through town. On Wednesday December 1st, paint this cheeky little gnome from 6:30 to 8:30PM and gift it to someone special for the holidays! Painting supplies and a lesson are just $38 at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie. On Saturday December 4th, paint a family heirloom winter painting of “The Perfect Tree” at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie for just $38 per person with supplies all included! On December 4th, come listen to an evening of music by Yheti and Toadface at the Lakehurst Events Center in Waukegan. More event information here! On Saturday December 11th starting at 7PM, head on over to the Genesee Theatre for a wonderful festive evening as they host The Chris Isaak Holiday Tour!  Event and ticket availability may be limited, check here! Are you hosting a local event or market?  Got plans to take your family to a fun holiday event nearby? We’d love to hear from you! Tell us in a comment all about how you plan to spend your holiday season together.

You can’t go wrong with those crispy chips, melty cheese, spicy salsas, and whatever your heart desires as a topping be it meat or veggies. Nachos are the ultimate in comfort food feasting!  Today we’re celebrating National Nachos Day with a great list of restaurants who have creative and delicious nachos as well as more traditional nacho fare! more We really enjoy creating these local food and travel guides for our patrons and visitors.  And we’d love to hear from you! Let us know your best picks for local eateries in any cuisine you enjoy, and your suggestion might just end up on a future blog post! Check out our picks for best local nachos: El Famous Burrito in Waukegan Big Ed’s Barbecue in Waukegan CYOC in Waukegan Anastasia’s Restaurant & Pub in Waukegan Green Town TAvern in Waukegan Dockside Dogs in Waukegan Isla Del Mar in Waukegan La Michoacana Premium in Waukegan Jesters in Waukegan El Rey del Pollo Asado in Waukegan Chuck Wagon in Waukegan Avocado Express in Waukegan Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant in Waukegan Big Norm’s in Waukegan Catrachos Restaurant in Waukegan Golosinas El Encanto in Gurnee Timothy O’Toole’s Pub Gurnee Tacos El Durango MExican Grill BBQ’d Productions in Gurnee Taqueria Toluca in Waukegan Zocalo Mexican Bar and Grill Austin’s Saloon and Eatery La Fogata Mexican Grill Los Compadres Mexican REstaurant in Kenosha El Sarape Mexican Restaurant in Kenosha Iguana Wana Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar in Kenosha Waterfront Warehouse in Kenosha Le Fe Cafe in Kenosha Tacos El Norte in Kenosha If you love nachos as much as we do, we think you’ll love these fun car accessories: Nacho Average Friend Car Air Freshener, Available from FriskyBusinessGifts on Etsy Nacho themed Seat Covers for the Car, fits most models, Via LoveMineGifts.com Nacho Business Car Mats, via Zazzle Nacho Business Bumper Sticker from Etsy Seller SketchAndStick If You Don’t Like Tacos then I’m NACHO Type Sticker via Etsy Seller LunaLemonsDesign

We’re really excited that the holidays are just around the corner, but we also know the hustle and bustle of the season can feel a little overwhelming.  We’re here to help alleviate a little bit of the pressure, though, with some tips, tricks and gadgets to make it all easier when prepping big family meals! more Today we’re sharing some of our favourite mealtime ideas for Thanksgiving and Harvest dinners.  And of course, after working so hard on your main dishes, sides, and desserts, it’ll be time to take them on the road to your family and friends!  That’s why we’re also including our picks for great carrying items and to-go containers for traveling with food.  After all, we can’t forget grandma’s apple pie -- it’s a Classic! Learn about the Native American traditional meals in Harvest and Autumn season, as well as a brief History of Thanksgiving foods: Native American and Indigenous Meal Ingredients. Add more Native American ingredients to your menu this year with this list from Forbes: Native American Thanksgiving Recipes and Food Timing Tips and Tricks and Full Easy Menu Lists Road trips and travel during the holiday season can be plenty to contend with on their own, but if you’re hosting the gatherings or family shindigs you’ve got your own timelines to contend with.  Alleviate the pressure of “doing it all” with our roundup of helpful tricks to getting it all done on time.  That’s right, we’re helping you find a way to get that meal on the table as soon as your famished family arrives.  Tempt your travelers with piping hot appetizers, fresh hors d'oeuvres, and a perfectly cooked meal right on schedule.  And if you’re taking a dish on the road to mealtime, these tips might still be of good use to get it all done so you can get out the door! Four Tips for Holiday Meal Timing Meal Planning and Timing During the Holidays A pre-planned holiday meal with timing and list! When to Cook and Prep Every Dish: A Thanksgiving Timeline The Easy Thanksgiving Menu Easy Thanksgiving/Christmas Dinner Menu from RecipeTinEats Fast, Easy, and Delicious Holiday Meal Recipes Here’s some of our favourite online recipes you can print-and-go or queue up on your tablets for fast reference. 10 Minute Thanksgiving Appetizers and Snacks 10 Minute appetizer Spread for All Occasions 10 Recipes for 3-ingredient Appetizers 33 Last Minute Thanksgiving Appetizers 3-Ingredient Thanksgiving Stuffing 1 Hour Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Sides Thanksgiving Salad Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe All in One Thanksgiving Casserole 5-Ingredient Sweet Potato Cassero le 60 5-Ingredient Thanksgiving Recipes 27 3-Ingredient Appetizers, Sides, and Desserts for Thanksgiving 100 Thanksgiving Recipes Ready in 30 Minutes Or Less Soul Food Thanksgiving Recipes 8 Must-Make Soul Food Thanksgiving Items Sean Sherman’s 10 Essential Native American Recipes Native American Chefs’ Recommended Fall Recipes Kid Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes Great Food Storage for the Holiday Traveller We know how hard you’ve worked on these holiday dishes, and we want them to arrive safe and sound at your get togethers!  That’s why we’ve selected some great items to keep your food safe while traveling in the car. From pie keepers to storage crates and more, we’ve got it all: The Sweet Creations Pie Traveler, $10-$15 The OXO Glass Pie Plate with Lid, $13-$15 Insulated Round Thermal Casserole Carrier, $15 The Cam Go Box via Walmart, $45 Instacrate with No Lid, $15 The Collapsible Rolling Crate, $30 Non-Slip Car Trunk Mats, $15 The Cater Gator Multi-Tray Insulated Food Storage, $250 ArcticZone Food Thermal Carrier, $30 Insulated Food Delivery Bag 23”x13”x15” size, $21

It’s National Sandwich Day! There are a lot of “hot takes” online about what makes a sandwich.  Is it simply some vegetables, meats, and/or cheeses stuffed between bread or dough items?  Do hot sandwiches count or only ones with chilled deli meats?   Is a hot dog a sandwich?! Do Tacos or Quesadillas count? Do you call it a Hoagie or a Sub Sandwich?! more Okay, okay, we could sit here and debate it all day long, but we’re getting a little hungry, and we’ve still got lots of cars to sell!  So instead of dishing out our own opinions, we’ll just share some of our favourite local restaurants with the best sandwiches around. From traditional Chicago Style dogs (okay, we’re counting ‘em!) to Chicago Style Beef sandwiches and other regional faves, you’ll find plenty of top notch eats.  Check out our picks for pheNOMenal bites in Waukegan, Southern Wisconsin, and the Greater Chicago area! Best Eats Around: Hot Hoagies, Cold Sandwiches, and More! We’ve got a great roundup of delicious restaurants and delis in the area just for you: Leno’s Sandwich Shop at 1826 Grand Avenue in Waukegan George’s Gyros at 2122 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Potbelly Sandwich Shop at 760 S Waukegan Road in Waukegan Quonset Pizza at 2602 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Hoagie Hut in 2807 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Brown’s Chicken at 3150 Belvidere Road in Waukegan Shirl’s Drive-In Waukegan at 2132 N Lewis Avenue in Waukegan HealthyYums at 2724 Sheridan Road in Zion Rammy’s Sub Contractors at 834 Wheeling Road in Wheeling Frantonio’s Italian Deli & Cafe at 421 N Northwest Highway in Barrington Eleven City Diner at 1112 S Wabash Avenue in Chicago Giordano’s at 730 N Rush Street in Chicago J.P. Graziano Grocery at 901 W Randolph Street in Chicago Fat Shack at 2537 S Wabash Avenue in Chicago Capt’n Nemo’s Rogers Park at 7367 N Clark Street in Chicago Devil Dawgs on State at 767 S State Street in Chicago Cousins Subs at 3806 W 52nd Street in Kenosha, WI Morelli’s Deli at 7506 7th Avenue in Kenosha, WI Tenuta’s Delicatessen-Liquors at 3203 52nd Street in Kenosha, WI SoupDepot Breakfast Lunch & Dinner at 2731 18t Street in Kenosha, WI Rustic’s Subs at 1830 27th Avenue Unit 101 in Kenosha, WI Harborside Common Grounds at 5159 6th Avenue in Kenosha, WI Big Lou’s Standing Room Only at 635 75th Street in Kenosha, WI Final Inning at 9048 Sheridan Road in Kenosha, WI Curious as to ‘Wich Items Are Best for Taking Your Sandwiches to Go? Whether you’re going on a picnic, a road trip, or just your daily commute, we’ve got lots of great options for taking your sandwich with you safely. Check it out here: Check out the SnapLock sandwich keeper to protect your sandwich on the commute to work! Under $10, it’s a steal on Amazon! ​​ No matter whether you call it a Hoagie or a Sub, it still needs safekeeping!  Check out this great sandwich keeper specifically designed for long rolls. Under $25 and worth it to protect your artisanal eats, right here on Amazon! Steel yourselves for this next one, because it’s going to excite the environmentally conscious in our midst!  This plastic free option is made of stainless steel and is very sturdy. Protects both regular and gluten free sandwiches without judgement. Available here on Amazon!

Who doesn’t love a good calzone with that ooey, gooey melty cheese dunked in some warm fresh marinara?  Mmmm, delicious!  And since it’s national Calzone day, we thought we’d share our picks for great local options in the Greater Chicago area. We’re so happy to be part of the community in Lake County, and we love to support fellow businesses here in the Waukegan area. more Consider ordering a lunch out from one of these fantastic restaurants, or taking a road trip to grab a bite from one of the best calzones in Chicago.  And we’ve also got some great recipes to try your hand at one at home, or great food transport bags to ensure your order gets home hot and ready to eat. The Best Around: Great Local Calzones Calzone & Macaroni at 260 Hawthorn Village Commons in Vernon Hills Ron’s Italian Ovens at 2195 N Illinois 83 in Round Lake Beach Double D Pizza at 1500 N Lewis Avenue in Waukegan Louie’s Restaurant at 1009 North Avenue in Waukegan Luici’s Mundelein at 1130 W Maple Avenue in Mundelein Mama K’s Pizza and Grille at 1801 N IL-21 in Gurnee K & R Jesters at 1500 N Lewis Avenue in Waukegan Buddyz a Chicago Pizza at 860 N Illinois Route 83 in Mundelein Potestas Pizza at 434 S Green Bay Road in Waukegan Anasasia’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge at 3880 Northpoint Blvd in Waukegan Rosati’s Pizza at 5404 Grand Avenue in Gurnee Donat’s Pizza at 205 Waukegan Road in Lake Bluff Jimano’s Pizzeria at 938 N Green Bay Road in Waukegan Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria 405 N Wabash Avenue in Chicago Panino’s Pizza Chicago at 3702 N Broadway in Chicago Pizzeria Serio 1708 W Belmont Avenue in Chicago Homeslice at 938 W Webster Avenue in Chicago The StopAlong at 1812 N Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago Spacca Napoli Pizzeria at 1769 W Sunnyside Avenue in Chicago Lacoco’s Pizza & Sports Club at 3350 W 47th Avenue in Chicago Sarpino’s Pizzeria at 1852 N Damen Avenue in Chicago Damenzo’s Pizza at 2324 W Taylor Street in Chicago Coalfire at 1321 W Grand Avenue in Chicago Tano’s Pizzeria at 3038 W Irving Park Road in Chicago Chicago’s Pizza at 3114 N Lincoln Avenue in Chicago Great Gadgets for Traveling with Pizza and Calzones in the Car Whether you’re delivering Calzones for a living as a food service worker or you’re bringing some noms to a party, the Freshie Insulated XXL Food Bag is the way to go! With drink holders and food insulation to keep meals fresh and hot or cool and crisp. As the weather gets cooler, this Homevative Electric Heated Food Delivery Bag is the perfect option to ensure your Calzones arrive with all that ooey gooey bubbly cheese nice and hot!  It holds up to 3 large pizza boxes, perfect for Friday Game Nights and Saturday Date Nights! Got plans to Netflix and Chill with Calzones? The smaller option from Freshie’s Food Bag lineup is a great idea for smaller to-go orders. Great for taking to dates at the drive-in! Great Recipes to Make Your Own Calzone Like the Experts Got dreams of opening your own Pizzeria?  Try your hand at making a calzone from scratch for some practice.  We’ve got some great options for you: Incredible Homemade Calzones Classic Calzones Lidia’s Calzones Quick and Easy Calzones