Ahmed Ali Akbar
Ahmed Ali Akbar is a former food reporter at the Chicago Tribune.
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Grilling up ‘octo’ with Monteverde’s Bailey Sullivan
A month after her top-three finish on "Top Chef," Bailey Sullivan, free of cameras and in her comfort zone, was back to working as executive chef at Monteverde.

The history (and mystery) of ice cream sundaes, and 6 standout Chicago-area offerings
Whatever the true story behind the ice cream sundae, it has evolved far beyond old-fashioned chocolate and cherry to more modern creations by some of the best chefs around Chicago.

Making a mark in culture and craft beer, Chicago-based Moor’s Brewing wins Samuel Adams competition
Moor's Brewing won the Samuel Adams 2025 Brewing the American Dream competition and will receive a year of financial assistance and mentorship from the brand.

Hot Chicago condiments to buy over and over again: Sauces that are regulars in our food reporter’s fridge
In Chicago, small-batch makers are producing some of my favorite sauces right now — I bring them out when I host and I frequently end up sending guests home with...

James Beard 2025: Here are Chicago’s winners
Chicago added two new James Beard award winners to its list of more than 50 winners Monday night at the Lyric Opera.

After a ‘Chi-town throwdown,’ just one Chicago chef remains on ‘Top Chef’
Chicago could have another local Top Chef, a coveted title that frequently propels cast members to successful restaurants, television spots and cookbooks.

‘Top Chef’ begins its 2-part finale tonight — and these 2 Chicago chefs are in it
Two Chicago chefs have fought long and hard to make it to the "Top Chef" Season 22 finale, which airs June 5 and 12 on Bravo.

Patio guide: 25 patios in Chicago for 2025
We dive into patios across the city that are worth exploring, from recently opened spots to patios featuring pizza under sparkling lights.

One mile, more than a dozen Latino-owned cafes: How Pilsen’s coffee culture is growing across 18th Street
Pulsing through and around 18th Street in Pilsen, there are now over a dozen independent, Latino-owned coffee stores.

Wrigley Field debuts menu with jibaritos, baseball doughnuts and fried ranch bombs
This year, baseball fans at Wrigley Field can enjoy new items such as doughnuts in the shape of a baseball, jibarito sandwiches and lobster rolls.
