Author: Fox Valley Magazine

Located at 720 N. McLean Blvd. in South Elgin IL, Sweet Berry Cafe is a community staple known for its modern and trendsetting, chef-driven approach to American breakfast and lunch. Ownership and HistoryThe cafe was founded in mid-2013 by Dan Mataragas, who built the business from the ground up after years in the restaurant industry. Mataragas partners with long-time collaborator Executive Chef Jesus, with whom he has worked with since they were 13 years old. Recently, the establishment underwent a remodel to introduce a more luxe and modern ambiance with bright, clean lines and delicious green velvet booths to complement…

Wine selections available at local wine stores and wineries in the Fox Valley area. Dionysus Cabernet SauvignonCrafted with devotion, our Dionysus Cabernet Sauvignon is a harmonious blend of medium tannins and rich, deep flavors. The journey of its creation begins with a cold soak, extracting the vibrant essence of cherry and plum, elegantly intertwined with sophisticated hints of dark chocolate. This meticulous process is followed by aging in French Oak barrels, which imparts a nuanced medium oak character, complementing the wine’s medium-full body, medium-high tannins, and medium acidity to perfection. Geneva Winery & Coffeehouse426 S. 3rd Street, Geneva, IL 601345…

Giardino Trattoria and Pizzeria is located in Downtown Aurora at 12 North River Street, inside the historic Hobbs Building, just steps from the Paramount Theatre. The menu focuses on brick oven Neapolitan-style pizza, fresh pasta made daily, Italian specialties, and salads, plus vegetarian and gluten-free options. You will find classic dishes made with quality ingredients as well as monthly specials. The dining room blends historic character with a garden-inspired theme. It works for date night, family dinner, and group reservations. Giardino is perfect for a pre-show meal when visiting one of our downtown Aurora theatres. The bar offers cocktails, wine,…

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra has unanimously approved a three-year contract extension with Music Director Chad Goodman. “We are thrilled to extend Chad Goodman’s position as Music Director for another three years so that we can continue to build on the terrific work that he has done on stage and in the community, creating synergy between our audience and musicians, and growing our lists of subscribers and donors each year,” said Marc Thayer, CEO of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. Goodman, the fifth music director in the Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s 76-year history, joined the ESO in May 2023. He has led the…

Get ready for a night of smooth harmonies, dazzling choreography, and timeless hits when UPTOWN takes the stage at the ECC Arts Center on Saturday, March 21, at 7:00 p.m. With explosive vocals, razor-sharp harmonies, and slick choreography, the men of UPTOWN deliver a dazzling tribute to the golden age of Motown while infusing every note with the pulse of modern R&B. Think smooth moves, sparkling stage presence, and the kind of magnetic energy that pulls the entire audience into the party. From heartfelt slow jams to roof-raising dance anthems, this dynamic vocal group promises an evening filled with music…

A new version of a rowdy classic comedy comes to a new theater space in downtown Elgin. Janus Theatre Company opens its 28th season featuring Ben Jonson’s comedy “The Alchemist” adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher, directed by Artistic Director Sean Hargadon. When a wealthy gentleman flees to the country, his trusted servant opens his house to a pair of con artists and sets up a den of criminal capitalism. Claiming alchemical powers, the quick-witted trio dupe the neighbors with their virtuosic ability to improvise amidst increasingly frantic comings and goings. It’s comic gold with dupes, double-dupes, duels, disguises, and a lucky…

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a spirited afternoon of music as Switchback presents Travelin’ Down an Irish Road on Tuesday, March 17, at 1:30pm at the ECC Arts Center in Elgin. The concert is part of the popular Midday Matinee series, offering audiences the perfect daytime escape, filled with world-class artistry and Celtic charm. Featuring the award-winning duo of Marty McCormack (vocals, guitar, and bass) and Brian FitzGerald (vocals, guitar, and mandolin), Switchback has long been dubbed “American Roots with Celtic Soul.” Their signature sound draws on traditional Celtic music and original Americana songs that reflect their Irish heritage and…

On the corner of 59 and Army Trail, just minutes from St.Charles, Squares Pizza Pub is reviving the family night out. The idea came from a conversation about what’s next between Chef Blaine, head chef of Preservation, and owner Lawrence Colburn. When Chef Blaine mentioned he grew up in Detroit and had crafted his own take on authentic Detroit-style pizza, the vision for Squares was born. A neighborhood pub built around bold flavor, great music, and an inviting, come-as-you-are atmosphere. At the heart of the menu is that signature Detroit-style pie — thick crust with crispy caramelized edges, rich sauce,…

Note: This is the latest in a weekly series from Anderson Humane spotlighting wonderful animals currently looking for a “forever home.” We encourage you to support Anderson Humane and it’s tireless efforts to care for our animal friends and place them in loving homes. For more information please visit https://ahconnects.org/. Hi, I’m Chilly! I’m a 6-month-old bundle of joy with a playful spirit and a heart full of love.  I absolutely adore attention—belly rubs, head scratches, and being told I’m a good girl are my favorite things! I’m always ready for a game, whether it’s chasing toys, bouncing around the yard, or making up…

In the heart of downtown Geneva, Preservation has spent 16 years redefining what it means to gather around the table. Built on the idea of upscale comfort, this shared-plates restaurant invites guests to explore contemporary American cuisine inspired by flavors from around the world. Dishes arrive as they’re ready, creating a relaxed, conversational flow and an experience that feels both spontaneous and thoughtfully curated. From creative small plates and artisan cheeses to larger bites and beautifully composed tasting plates, every dish is fresh, completely homemade, and designed with vibrant presentation and unexpected combinations in mind. Preservation is more than a…