Noted

I heard that Salt on Prospect in Peoria Heights is planning to expand into the vacant space next to them and is considering offering brunch on Sundays.

Noted

As of the beginning of this month, Los Jimadores in Washburn is now serving breakfast.

Party Mardi

I'm always looking for a reason to celebrate. A couple of weeks ago while glancing at my calendar, I noticed that Fat Tuesday is February 21.

The first place I thought about visiting was Beignet's On The Corner, 100 State Street in Peoria. Their menu has a New Orleans flair and I love their shrimp bisque.

I noticed River Beach Pub, 13637 N River Beach Dr, South Rome is offering hurricanes and jambalaya on Fat Tuesday. 

If I don't want to wait until Tuesday to celebrate, Saturday, February 18 I see that 309 in Junction City is having a Mardi Gras complete with hurricanes, beads, masquerade masks, live blues and jazz.

Also this Saturday night is Willett's Winery's annual Mardi Gras Party with New Orleans style cuisine and the Mason Dixies Band starting. The winery is located at 105 East Market Street in Manito.

Lunch for $10 or less

Tired of brown bagging it but don't want to break the bank? Here are some options for lunch under $10 in the Peoria area:

Yen Ching 6936 North University Street, Peoria
Los Jimadores 7723 North University Street, Peoria
Alwan & Sons Meat Company 703 E War Memorial Dr., Peoria Heights
Cracked Pepper 311 Main Street and 3406 NE Adams, Peoria
Rizzi's 112 State Street and 4613 North Sheridan Road, Peoria
Cummins Family Restaurant 1869 Washington Road, Washington
Spotted Cow 718 W. Glen, Peoria
Smo-King Pit Northwoods Mall, Peoria
Joe's Peoria 1301 W Pioneer Pkwy., Peoria

Noted

If you're looking for some new places to dine, check out Knuckles Pizza at 1719 W. Woodside Drive in Dunlap or Kabab-G at 7800 Sommer Drive in Peoria.