Tom and I have enjoyed so many meals and moments in Chicago.

The business we owned was a commercial food equipment parts and service distributor. Every May, (C-FESA) the National Association to which we were members, had meetings at the National Restaurant Association (NRA) annual trade show held at McCormick Place.

We would stay at a beautiful high rise hotel on the “Magnificent Mile”, also known as Michigan Avenue.

May is a gorgeous time to visit The Windy City. It is when all the flower beds on either side of the street are filled with tulips of every color and variety. Being a native Floridian, this was something I had never seen and it was breathtaking!

It was obvious Spring was happy to return.

Add to the floral beauty the sounds of a bustling downtown alive with pedestrians, tourists and residents all scrambling to their destination; the energy was addictive.

But what I loved most about this season of our life was the food.

The High Tea at the historic Drake Hotel is like stepping back in time. Fresh flower arrangements don every nook of the lobby and spacious dining room. Tapestries and antique mirrors add warmth and beauty to the setting. A classical harpist dressed in a formal attire strokes the strings quietly adding a touch romance. The tea is served with finger sandwiches of cucumber, egg salad and other edible delights. It is more than tea, it is an experience you’ll not soon forget.

Over the years we became good friends with two couples, one from Arizona and one from Wisconsin. Being in the restaurant industry we shared a love for fine dining. Each year we would take turns picking where to eat. One year we happened on an all-time favorite, Keefers. Unfortunately it is no longer in business, but the food lives on in my palate’s memory.

It was here that I discovered Dover Sole. It is a delicate white fish caught off the coast of England. It is usually filleted table side and served with a lemon caper cream sauce. Ahhh!

This last week Tom planned a couple of days away as part of my birthday present. What I didn’t know was he had made reservations for us at a restaurant serving Dover Sole. I was giddy with delight. I can’t remember the last time I’ve had it so this was going to be a treat.

The fish was beautifully prepared and served hot. When I was almost finished I found a few bones that our server missed while filleting, which kept me from enjoying all of it, but I was extremely satisfied.

Food has a way of leaving an imprint on the palate like a photograph leaves for the eyes. Replicating an imprint is not easy, but Tom managed to do it well. He gave me this gift that was new, yet held a fond memory I’ll always cherish.

Now that’s a gift for which I am grateful despite a few bones. Thanks for the memory, Chicago!

What imprints do you or your spouse recall? Think of ways you could you recreate it for them and make it happen.

Thank you for reading and for sharing. We are grateful that you have chosen to visit our vineyard.

Blessings,

Tom and Debi