Kayla Samoy

Kayla Samoy is the editor of the Dining section and works in Arts+Entertainment for the Chicago Tribune. She is a University of Arizona graduate and previously worked for the Associated Press and the Arizona Republic.

Tre Rowell carrying his son, also Tre, along with his wife Bethany, of Fox Lake, walk in the "Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience" in Ingleside on Oct. 2, 2025.

‘Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience’ lets fans explore an outdoor ‘Harry Potter’ world

October 7, 2025 at 9:11 a.m.

Muggles can buy a ticket and walk down a path with scenes and creatures from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” franchise.

Doechii performs on the third day of Lollapalooza at Grant Park on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025. (Audrey Richardson/for the Chicago Tribune)

Fall 2025 in Chicago: Everything you need to know for books, theater, movies and more

May 22, 2026 at 7:46 p.m.

The Tribune's writers and critics have assembled their guides for fall arts and entertainment in Chicago, with everything you need to know about the best in books, theater, TV, movies,...

Tribune’s 2025 Holiday Cookie Contest: It’s time to submit your recipe

October 1, 2025 at 1:58 p.m.

It's time to put on your apron and preheat your oven; the 39th edition of the Tribune's annual Holiday Cookie Contest is here.

The Dark Chocolate Citrus Sundae at Monteverde Restaurant and Pastificio on July 8, 2025. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune)

The history (and mystery) of ice cream sundaes, and 6 standout Chicago-area offerings

July 21, 2025 at 10:09 a.m.

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.

Julia Momosé, creative director and mixologist at Kumiko in the West Loop, after winning outstanding bar at the 2025 James Beard Awards at the Lyric Opera House, June 16, 2025, in Chicago.(Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

James Beard 2025: Here are Chicago’s winners

June 17, 2025 at 8:36 p.m.

Chicago added two new James Beard award winners to its list of more than 50 winners Monday night at the Lyric Opera.

People take photos as they arrive at the red carpet while attending the James Beard Foundation Awards at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on June 10, 2024. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)

The James Beard Awards are tonight. Here’s what to know.

June 16, 2025 at 5:00 a.m.

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the awards and the 10th anniversary of the ceremony taking place in Chicago.

Morgan Schwerin, left, and Aerin Moberg eat Black’s Barbecue while attending the final day of the Windy City Smokeout festival outside the United Center on Aug. 7, 2022, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

Summer 2025 in Chicago: All you need to know for movies, concerts, food festivals and more

May 22, 2026 at 7:46 p.m.

Here are all of the Tribune's summer 2025 arts, entertainment and food guides.

Outdoor seating at il Carciofo in Chicago’s Fulton Market, May 23, 2025. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

Patio guide: 25 patios in Chicago for 2025

May 28, 2025 at 1:32 p.m.

We dive into patios across the city that are worth exploring, from recently opened spots to patios featuring pizza under sparkling lights.

Co-owner Audrey Borden delivers a coffee flight for customers at Coffee Shop of the Year October Cafe in Chicago on Feb. 22, 2025. (Audrey Richardson/Chicago Tribune)

Readers’ Choice Food Awards winners: 10 restaurants, bars, bakeries and more that impressed Chicago in 2024

March 5, 2025 at 11:03 a.m.

After thousands of votes, here are the 10 winning restaurants, bars and more in the 13th edition of the Tribune Readers' Choice Food Awards.

The 2024 Chicago Tribune Readers' Choice Food Awards. (Aly Morris/Chicago Tribune)

Just a few days remain to vote for your favorite restaurants in the Readers’ Choice Food Awards

February 3, 2025 at 11:58 a.m.

Less than 10 votes separate first and second place in multiple categories, so every single vote counts.

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