Taste of Chicago

I've been waiting for a free minute to write my thoughts about Taste of Chicago 2014. My partner and I shared 60 tickets just like last year, but this time we tried more "Taste" items than last year, which are smaller portions. Here's the rundown of what we tasted, and your SKIP IT or EAT IT suggestions:

Brasserie by LM: Taste of Croque Monsieur Sandwich.
This was from a pop-up restaurant that was only there for a few days. It was pretty good, but the serving was very small. SKIP IT.


Carbon Live Fire Mexican Grill: Tequila-Lime Marinated Chicken Taco.
I just tried a small bite, but my partner loved this. It was one of her favorite things at Taste. EAT IT.


The Noodle Vietnamese: Taste of Crab Rangoon.
We had had this before, and it's not our favorite, but sometimes we just crave crab rangoon. SKIP IT.


Chicago's Dog House: Taste of Infused Cheddar Bacon Sausage.
This was one of the more interesting things I tried, and it was presented well. I liked it a lot. EAT IT.


Lawrence's Fisheries: Taste of Large Fried Shrimp.
It was a small serving, and was very dry without much flavor. SKIP IT.


Billy Goat Inn: Taste of 1/2 Cheeseburger.
The bun was bulky and dry, and the patty was thin, and there wasn't much flavor. SKIP IT.


Caffe Gelato: Bacio (Chocolate Hazelnut).
It was hot. There was cold gelato. EAT/SKIP IT.


Connie's Pizza: Taste of Half Deep Dish Cheese.
Lots of cheese, and a bargain. EAT IT.


M Burger: Taste of Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
It was very plain, and nothing special. SKIP IT.


Franco's Ristorante: Italian Watermelon Ice.
Did I mention is was hot out? EAT/SKIP IT.


BJ's Market & Bakery: Taste of Mustard-Fried Catfish.
I liked this a lot, and the serving was a good size. EAT IT.


The Fat Shallot: Taste of Truffle Fries
This was from a food truck stationed there for a few days. We both loved the fries! EAT IT.