We loved Vera which we discovered when it received a "GNR" from LTHForum a decade ago. I remember being thoroughly amazed when we ordered a simple crudite and every vegetable had such amazing flavor. Now you tell me Chef Mendez is making sancocho? Be still my heart.
Well deserved praise for Chef Mendez. Though I know that industry people widely recognize his talent and vision, he never had the PR/Social Media machinery behind him to raise his public profile. Thanks to your words and hopefully those of others he may soon receive his due.
It is troubling though, that Jerry Kleiner is once again featured in such a light hearted way - he is often described as a "visionary" or "colorful" restaurant owner, which is analogous to describing Ted Kaczynsky as a quirky mathematician. As one among dozens of victims of Kleiner's scams (Crain's Chicago Business once listed in a lengthy article the many lawsuits filed against him), it galls me that Kleiner has somehow managed to operate in this city as if he actually earned it.
I missed dining at Vera and look forward to trying Chef Mendez’s venues. Thanks for the introduction.
We loved Vera which we discovered when it received a "GNR" from LTHForum a decade ago. I remember being thoroughly amazed when we ordered a simple crudite and every vegetable had such amazing flavor. Now you tell me Chef Mendez is making sancocho? Be still my heart.
Such an apt description of J K....numerous d-bag actions I have witnessed..
I must get Dylan to read one of mine some day. Snoop reading yours was beautiful.
Well deserved praise for Chef Mendez. Though I know that industry people widely recognize his talent and vision, he never had the PR/Social Media machinery behind him to raise his public profile. Thanks to your words and hopefully those of others he may soon receive his due.
It is troubling though, that Jerry Kleiner is once again featured in such a light hearted way - he is often described as a "visionary" or "colorful" restaurant owner, which is analogous to describing Ted Kaczynsky as a quirky mathematician. As one among dozens of victims of Kleiner's scams (Crain's Chicago Business once listed in a lengthy article the many lawsuits filed against him), it galls me that Kleiner has somehow managed to operate in this city as if he actually earned it.
I agree!
Happy to talk about this. Feel free to DM me mike (at) michaelnagrant (dot) com...as you know I'm into talking about the truth.