grilled pineapple – Hillary Weller

2013 Best Bite #15: Hawaiian pizza, Boiler Room

Each day in December, I’m celebrating the rest of the best bites (and sips) that I didn’t get to blog about in 2013, posted in chronological order. Browse all of this year’s Best Bites, or look back at 2012’s Best Bites.

Hawaiian pizza with garlic oil, house blend of mozzarella and provolone, homemade ham, bacon, and grilled pineapple with balsamic reduction

Why it’s another 2013 Best Bite: Boiler Room is another one of my neighborhood go-tos because it’s mastered the bar trifecta: atmosphere, drinks, and pizza. When I’m not in the mood for its renowned PB&J special (a PBR, a shot of Jameson, and a slice of pizza for $7.50), I usually opt to share a full pie, and the Hawaiian was one of my favorites so far. It was meaty with both ham and bacon, and had plenty of gooey cheese and garlic, but the best part was the balsamic reduction drizzled over charred pineapple for the ultimate sweet-and-sour effect. And if you go, don’t miss the El-themed restroom – just trust me.

The details: Boiler Room, 2210 N. California Ave., Chicago.

This week’s Best Bite: The Kedzie breakfast, Grandma J’s Local Kitchen

The Kedzie, Grandma J's Local Kitchen — The Kedzie, Grandma J’s Local Kitchen

Why it’s this week’s Best Bite: I was overjoyed by this unique take on eggs benedict on a recent weekday morning. The poached eggs sit atop cheddar jasmine rice cakes, crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, with hollandaise, pico de gallo, and black beans to tie it together. Large pieces of grilled pineapple and red pepper also make a statement as garnishes, joined by a pleasant arugula salad. It’s filling and a little exotic, meant to be enjoyed with coffee and a good read (in my case, the never-ending quest to catch up on magazines).

Sunny interior, Grandma J's Local Kitchen — Sunny interior, Grandma J’s Local Kitchen

Walking into Grandma J’s is like stepping into someone’s living room, mismatched furniture and all. Bold art, antique photos, and knick-knacks huddle under the colorful fabric panels that adorn the ceiling, and an armoire surrounded by wall-mounted clocks holds an array of hot sauces, a gentle reminder that it’s still a restaurant. The service is casual and friendly, and the open kitchen makes it feel like you’re pulling up a stool to watch Grandma cook (if Grandma was younger, with hipster sensibilities). It’s tucked away in Humboldt Park, a block from my old apartment – I so wish it had opened while I still lived there, as it would have been a dream to have brunch like this within walking distance. If you go, make sure to also stop for a treat at 100-year-old Roeser’s Bakery, just across North Avenue.

Mason jars and cozy details, Grandma J's Local Kitchen — Mason jars and cozy details, Grandma J’s Local Kitchen

The details: Grandma J’s Local Kitchen, 1552 N Kedzie Ave., Chicago.