The Return of Amereno's Little Italy
After being closed for almost two years, this former eastside establishment has reopened in midtown at 2933 E. Grant Road. Victor Amereno opened the eatery in 1998 but has since moved back East, leaving management to Jaqueline Piikkila. She has the same chef and menu, including the pollo scarpariello: breast-of-chicken medallions sautéed with garlic and hot/sweet peppers and served with scalloped potatoes or pasta. Amereno's is open Tuesday through Friday for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Tuesday through Sunday for dinner from 5 to 10 p.m.; 721-1210.
New: Luna Bella
Steve Schultz is a busy guy. Not only does he own Red Sky Café, but he has just opened Luna Bella Italian Cuisine and Catering at 2990 N. Swan Road, Suite 145 (formerly home to Firecracker Bistro and Bistro Philippe) at Plaza Palomino. The restaurant features foods from northern and central Italy with menu items like braciola and veal osso buco for dinner, and panini sandwiches and salads for lunch; open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; 325-3895.
Philanthropy With Phlavor
During the month of October, every time you dine at Pastiche, order takeout food, make a purchase at the wine shop or buy Pastiche gift certificates, you can choose one of 40 nonprofit organizations to receive 5 percent of your check amount. That's a delicious thought at 3025 N. Campbell Ave.; 325-3333.
Elgin Oenophiles
Elgin's Kief-Joshua Vineyards hosts a first-anniversary celebration with wine, folk-rock music and food on Saturday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at their tasting room located at 370 Elgin Road. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Steak Out restaurant will serve food for $8 a plate. A $5 tasting fee includes a free souvenir wine glass, or bring a glass from another vineyard to receive a $1 discount. Call (520) 455-5582 or visit kj-vineyards.com for driving directions.
