By Amy Derby For folks seeking cheap beer and a place to watch the game, Durbin’s is a score. Couples and guys of all ages, but not an abundance of single ladies – sorry, fellas – make up the scene on a typical evening. Hot wings, burgers and ribs are good here. Nightly specials offer discounted [...]

By Amy Derby Cavallini’s caters functions and serves breakfast, but the real treasure here is the coffee and tea selection. I’m a sucker for a great cup of coffee, and I’ve scouted around this town plenty without coming close to anything this good. Located inside the Oak Park Avenue Metra station, the guys who run [...]

By Amy Derby Sam and Jake’s is hopping with preteens and families, and for good reason: a sugar rush couldn’t get much sweeter. This old-fashioned ice cream shop has something to quench every craving, from simple cones to elaborate sundaes, with sugar-free and low-fat choices available. If you’re not an ice cream fan, opt for [...]

By Amy Derby This family-friendly local favorite is known for its gourmet pizzas, genius toppings combinations and old-fashioned thin crusts. Ed and Joe’s also serves burgers, Italian beef, barbeque chicken, pot pies and pasta. For a change of pace, try the fish. Seriously, the beer-battered cod filet is the hidden gem of this restaurant. If [...]

By Amy Derby Isabella is my top pick for a surprisingly affordable upscale dinner in a romantic atmosphere. Also a great spot for a casual lunch with colleagues or friends. For lunch, a $10 menu includes a choice of chicken parmesan, fettuccini salmon or stuffed eggplant. Don’t miss the $5 sangrias and margaritas. For dinner [...]

By Amy Derby If you happen to be out walking the dog — or the kids — on a summer Saturday morning near the Oak Park Avenue Metra station, you might notice a party going on at Zabrocki Plaza. From June through September, the Tinley Park Farmers Market lures in local families with more than [...]