CHICAGO - Feasts and Flights

I'm here at O'Hare, all snowed in and nowhere to go.

I think I understand what caused one frustrated airport customer to say, "I would rather spend a week in hell than a day at this airport. If there's one drop of rain, or a cloud visible on the horizon, everything just stops" (flightstats.com). I can't say that I totally agree with this statement, but I have to admit - the sarcastic humor helps battle the Famous O'hare Delayed Flight Blues. I think it's going to be a long lay over.

My time in Chicago included a dinner presentation that I gave at the InterContinental Hotel hosted by the Associated Luxury hotels International and Leading Speakers Authorities, Inc. (my speaker's bureau). This private dinner took place in an exquisite dining room called the King Arthur Room. As the name suggests, the room was designed with a distinct medieval feel. The entryway is guarded by painted uniformed knights and the dinner itself was served on a 60 foot long banquet table that is surrounded by ornate stained glass and beautifully carved wooden beams. It's definitely one of the most unique venues I've worked in for quite a while.

The InterContinental Hotel has another kind of dining gem that they describe as a wine tasting experience that engages all your senses. ENO is a trendy tasting hot spot where patrons can indulge in flights of fanciful wine, chocolate and cheese pairings either by their own taste or with the help from an extremely knowledgeable, and patient,service staff. There are 15 different flights in each of the different "food groups". During my stay of several days here in Chicago I had the opportunity to try a great variety of pairings. I strongly recommend ENO if you are in Chicago. Give it a try either as a pre or post dinner option - or if you are really daring,spend a whole meal there. ENO is a wonderful and unique concept. Check out their menu at www.enowinerooms.com