Word On The Street: May 10, 2008

Marcus Riley, NBC5 Street Team (video)

Watch the weekly “Word On The Street” segment on 24/7 Chicago: Secrets of the City,” at 12:05 a.m., immediately following Saturday Night Live on NBC5.

Park 52

For this week’s ”Word On The Street” segment we hit Park 52, a welcome addition to Hyde Park’s culinary scene. Designer/owner Jerry Kleiner again teams with Marc Brooks to put their signature stamp on this space.

When you walk in Park 52’s circular rotating main door, you’re immediately reminded of this duo’s previous collaboration, South Loop’s Room 21. Think rich reds and plush, velvety accoutrements in the design, along with the signature Kleiner hand-made silk shantung lighting fixtures. Be sure to check out the high fashion and celebrity photography in black and white and color. Jerry doesn’t spare any detail in his projects, and will not rush any restaurant into opening until his vision is reached — in design, food and service.

Executive Chef Chris Barron (Opera, Red Light, Ritz Carlton, Beverly Hilton, Border Grill, Park Hyatt) and Sous Chef Matt Moss (Cascina Langa Italy, Crofton on Wells, Butter) are behind the food, described as an American bistro dinner menu. Beginning in June, the chefs will buy ingredients from Hyde Park’s weekly Farmer’s Market and incorporate it into the menu.

Park 52
5201 S. Harper Ct
773-241-5200

No Country For Old White Men

Second City is without question one of Chicago’s treasures, and the launching pad for a countless amount of comedians who later went on to the “big time.” And as on SNL — where some of these performers could end up one day — politics seem to be the easiest fodder for laughs.

The previous show, “Between Barack and a Hard Place” was a resounding success, and the current production, “No Country For Old White Men,” mines the same topical, political satire. This from the press release:

“From a You Tube electorate grabbing their 15 minutes of fame to a rare US visit by the British House of Commons, No Country for Old White Men is trading in its Cadillac and country club membership for some sweet soul food and a side of girl power.”

Tickets for No Country for Old White Men are available by phone at (312) 337-3992 or online at www.secondcity.com.

Return Of The Cocktail Party

Looking for something to do on Tuesday nights? Go retro at Return of the Cocktail Party, at River North hotspot Martini Park.

Sip on one of the old-style cocktails — Side Cars, Old Fashioneds, Manhattans — all while kicking back in the loungy and colorful surroundings.

Oh ya, can’t have a cocktail party without the music. Each night will feature a different singer. Check the calendar to see who will be performing.