I love eating. More specifically, I love meals. I love a setting of good company, good food and good atmosphere. I especially enjoy it when all three come together unexpectedly.

Recently, Laurie and I experienced just this convergence. On our way to a musical in Chicago, we were a bit crunched for time. Laurie spotted this cute restaurant across the street from the theater. After quickly scanning the menu, we decided to gamble on Dinotto’s. We told the staff we were a bit limited on time and they promised to keep us on schedule. What followed was an incredible feast, served within our time frame without feeling rushed. An appetizer of goat cheese and olives on top of toasted dark rye bread started the meal. Laurie had pasta with chicken, while I had four-cheese risotto with chicken, although we pretty much shared the dinners. Each bite was a flavorful, textural sensation. We even had time for Laurie to have an after-dinner cappuccino.

I love finding places like this. Laurie and I seem to have a knack for this sort of serendipity.

A few years back, we were walking around downtown. We walked a few miles and almost missed a quaint Italian restaurant not too far from United Center. LaLuce has been my most recommended restaurant in Chicago. We also stumbled upon a few great spots in Oak Park, IL, but our findings are not limited to just local spots. Our nose for food has worked in New Orleans and St. Petersburg.

Anyone can have a good time and meal at a highly recommended place and there is nothing wrong with that. However, I find such joy in discovering special places like Dinotto’s (and LaLuce). These are the places which help create great memories, and I hope to keep finding more.

— John Wroblewski, distribution specialist