David "Jersey Dave" B.'s Profile

I'm always up for a dog or two and had noticed this place for quite some time... Today I took the opportunity to have lunch here and I couldn't be more pleased with that decision!

These folks have several "signature dogs" with a set mix of toppings as well as a few "pick your toppings" selections. They prepare their dogs four different ways including deep fried. If you've never had a deep fried dog, you're missing out on a one of life's hidden pleasures!

These dogs are complimented by any number of hand cut, fried to order fries and chip selections. Finally, you pour your own fountain drinks allowing you to return for refills as you desire...

My selection today: 2 Big League Dogs, deep fried, topped with yellow mustard, relish, banana peppers and celery salt along with a side of garlic parmesan fries and a "Yankee" Iced Tea.

You'll find this place just off of I77 at exit 33 on the East side of the highway.

So being in Oak Brook this week for a business trip coupled with an invitation by a friend willing to foot the bill, I opted for a steak -- one that you can only get in the Midwest...

Those that know me well know I'm a purest when it comes to my steak... no fuss...  "Bone-in Ribeye Pittsburgh-rare, heavy on the seasoning", a side of creamed spinach on the side please....  I was not disappointed.

Marg took care of the details... we couldn't have asked for a finer more leisurely experience...  The oyster appetizer (get 'em before they're coated with crude people!) were briny and delightful.  The crab salad appetizer is a "must have".

For those of you prime rib aficionados out there, be warned -- the prime rib served here is enough for 2!  ...don't go it alone... Beware!

Yumei is simply "Sushi Mecca" if there ever was such a place!

Take the time to know Young and his staff, and you too will long for opportunities to return to Toronto...

I first dined at Yumei in '98 while in Toronto on business.  Mine was not a quick meal but a journey of everything that Young had to offer...  4 hours later, I had enjoyed everything -- thoroughly enjoyed!  I've since returned to Toronto on countless occasions and eagerly look forward to any opportunity to return to Yumei.

As with any fine sushi experience,
- always sit at the sushi bar (make reservations and tell Young that "Dave from New Jersey" recommended the place)
- never rub your chopsticks together (it's not classy people!)
- wasabi goes on top of your sushi, not in your sauce
- never order with pencil and paper -- Young knows what's best (explain your limits if you have any)
- tell him your budget!

Reservations are STRONGLY suggested particularly if you wish to sit at the sushi bar!  Not only does Yumei have sushi, but they also have a full kitchen capable of preparing any number of Japanese and Korean delicacies

Take the time to venture out to "the beaches".  You'll not be disappointed!

I first encountered Ebisu in '04 while on a job interview in San Francisco.  At the time, I was sitting in a hotel room out by SFO and Googled

"Best sushi in San Francisco"

Ebisu kept popping up in the results!  A $30 Taxi brought me to this little bit of heaven the first time and I always take the return whenever I'm in town.

As with any fine sushi experience,
- always sit at the sushi bar
- never rub your chopsticks together (it's not classy people!)
- wasabi goes on top of your sushi, not in your sauce
- never order with pencil and paper -- the chef knows what's best

Ask for the Pink Cadillac (a scallop wrapped in salmon, lightly grilled and then sliced in half), Kobe Beef sashimi or the miriad of rolls customized to your liking.

...and don't forget to obtain / use your Ebisu / Hotei Rewards card which will get you a 10% rebate on future visits!