Peter, Pat, and Potatoes

Trader Todd's at 3216 N. Sheffield Avenue is known for nightlife in Chicago. The karaoke crowd in this place packs the bar at times, but cultivating a brunch crowd can be a challenge.

I brought local DJ Greg Haus along for the ride just steps away from where he spins music at Berlin Nightclub.

We started off with drinks. This venue is known for tropical specialty cocktails. Look for the Buttery Monkey combines orchatt, banana and butterscotch liqueur. The Velvet Margarita uses frssh squeezed sour mix to make a strong concoction. The bar uses fresh ingredients when possible and that makes a difference with juices.

The brunch menu is currently in transition. The chef who greeted us during the meal is using some interesting combinations in the cuisine.

The Conche Benedict was excellent, smarlty made with a lime zest. Served with fried potatoes with a smooth flavor.

The Chicken & Waffles also were served with the tasty potatoes. We needed more jerk chicken to go into the dish. The taste moved into dessert territory with the cinnamon sauce. It is served with peanuts so watch those allergies.

The Pina Colada French Toast was a stand out and continues with the brand of the venue. This is a must try dish when heading to brunch here. Split it with a friend if needed.

With summer approaching quickly Trader Todd's should be a stop for brunch in this area. The patio will draw people in, hopefully some on their way to a Cubs game.

Visit www.TraderTodd.com or call 773-348-3250 for more information.

Recently Peter & Pat's Pierogies launched in the Midwest. Check out their real potato and cheese ingredients. Now carried in one of my favorite places Costco, shoppers have the opportunity to snap these little bits of goodness up.

From a catering business Peter & Pat have grown their corporation for over 20 years. The 100% natural ingredients these potato dumplings are something to sample.

General information about them can be found at 877-630-9788.