Carmine’s chicken Milanese

What you do for a living: I’m best known as “The Feldco Guy” … and over the last 20+ years, I’ve done just about everything at Feldco.

How long you’ve lived here: I was born and raised in Park Ridge. And while I lived in Chicago for a bit, like so many others in the area, I couldn’t stay away and returned to raise my family here 20 years ago.

What do you like best about Park Ridge: I like all the unique home styles. Very little is the same. As I walk my dog through different neighborhoods, I really enjoy all the architectural variety.

Best meal you’ve had recently: Most recent? That would have to be Carmine’s. I have a soft spot for their monstrous chicken Milanese and crispy Brussels sprouts.

Favorite “hidden gem” restaurant: Everyone in my family has been lifelong fans of Mac’s on Higgins. Nick and Jay feel like extended family to me, and no one does it like them for breakfast. And for lunch, the soups and stews that Perry makes there are really tasty.

Mully’s burger and gyro



Favorite restaurant in the area: I’ve never had a bad meal at Pazzi di Pizza. But I’ve really enjoyed the fantastic casual fare at the new Mully’s Grill of late. Bob, Tom and John do a great job there, and the golf simulators are an added bonus.

Best bar to grab a drink or to catch the game: Sitting at Holt’s is one of the best places to unwind and catch a game. Great service, great food and ideal location.

A great night out with friends usually includes…  As the father of two teens, I take any and every opportunity to spend time with them when they are free and want to hang out with their old man. I really enjoy their company, so if they want to head out, I’m all in. Whether it be with the kids or friends, as long as there are laughs, it is a great night out indeed.

 I’ve never had a bad meal at Pazzi di Pizza. But I’ve really enjoyed the fantastic casual fare at the new Mully’s Grill of late. Bob, Tom and John do a great job there, and the golf simulators are an added bonus.



The best way to spend a Saturday in the summer: This is easy — I enjoy heading up to the Park Ridge Farmers’ Market when it opens. After that, going out to or making breakfast with the family at home and then grilling later in the day. That screams summer to me.

What’s something you look forward to every summer?  
If we can get our schedules aligned, spending the day at Wrigley Field with my kids would be a perfect day. I also always look forward to trips up to northern Michigan with family and friends. Golfing, boating, relaxing — basically all things “lake.”

Edie Boutique

Favorite local store or best shopping area: For major retail needs, I’ve always headed to Old Orchard Mall. But for unique and local gifts, Edie Boutique and Marigold are both a go-to for my daughter and me.

Secret spot: It’s not so much a secret (more of a dive), but when I have out-of-town friends come to visit, I love Half Shell in Chicago. There’s nothing better than butter-drenched crab legs!

Underrated activity in the area: The Des Plaines River Trail. Some days it seems like no one knows about it, while other days it can be packed. I think it’s a great place to hike, and I walk my dog there quite a bit. It’s a slice of nature in our backyard.

There are so many great communities for a weekend getaway in northwest Indiana and southwest Michigan. From Ogden Dunes to Benton Harbor, there are great options for friends and families, and you can make it a day trip if needed.

Weekend getaway spot: There are so many great communities in northwest Indiana and southwest Michigan. From Ogden Dunes to Benton Harbor, there are great options for friends and families, and you can make it a day trip if needed. While it’s not that far, it’s just far enough to feel like a real getaway.



What have you heard great things about but have yet to try?
As a Chicagoan, I’ve been blessed with a lot of pro teams to support over the years. Last summer, I stopped by the Field of Dreams in Iowa, which was quite moving, and now I want to start visiting some minor league baseball fields throughout the area. Baseball has always had a special place in my heart, and seeing the game played at different levels is pretty cool.

Chicago Dogs in Rosemont