It’s that time of year that I can’t stop gushing about.  I can go outside without a coat on and shocker, NOT EVEN TAKE ONE WITH ME AT NIGHT!

It’s hard to believe that June has already flown by and I hope everyone is soaking up the 90 degree weather because it may seem unbearable now but you’ll be missing this come February.  Here is a look at some of my Summer Eats a la Groupon…

The Counter – Summer is in full swing and I will be the first to admit that I overcommitted myself in terms of summer rec sports.  One Thursday night after softball practice, I found myself absolutely starved.  Luckily, I had a willing dining companion and a Groupon in hand for The Counter.  I couldn’t resist an alcoholic milkshake (my first one ever, but not the last).  I picked the Coffee Milkshake that included Kahlua and topped with whipped cream.  Absolutely delicious and terrible for me.  Just what I wanted.

As for the burger, I went for the build your own option and combined some random ingredients.  I tried the turkey patty with guacamole, grilled onions, and grilled pineapple prepared medium rare.

Build Your Own Burger

The burger was incredibly messy but the random assortment of ingredients did not disappoint.  Although, I do admit they probably aren’t the most ideal combination.  As for the fries, we split an order of the sweet potato and the parmesan fries.  The parmesan fries were disappointing and a little bland but the sweet potato had a great flavor and the right amount of crispiness.  I’ll be back to The Counter soon.

Geja’s – It seemed for awhile that Groupon had non-stop awesome restaurant deals going on (and has since been on a hiatus).  I was able to snag a good deal to Geja’s and waited for the last minute to go.  I have never been to a fondue restaurant before so this was going to be a whole new experience.  My friend and I went on a 90 degree day (not exactly ideal for a heavy meal) but go big or go home.  The restaurant is supposedly one of the most romantic in the city and I could buy that, if it were winter time.  I found the low lighting too dark but overall, a cool atmosphere.

As for the food, we started with the Cheese Fondue that was melted down with some white wine.  We were given an assortment of bread and fruits for dipping and the cheese got more and more gooey and complex the longer it sat.

Fruit/Bread Assortment for the Cheese

As for the mains, I picked the fillet and lobster combination.  I enjoyed having the options of all the various sauces, although the teriyaki was the best.  Next time I’d just stick to the fillet (also the easiest to cook).  The chocolate fondue was off the chain.  I loved the roasted marshmallows (smores baby!), pieces of cake, rice crispies, and fruit.  LOVE!

Chocolate Fondue Fire for Marshmallow Roasting

I enjoyed the experience but not something I’d seek out regularly, especially due to the price point.  You can get a better meal in Chicago and not have to cook it yourself.

Happy eating and an even happier Summer!

Till next time, peace out food ninjas!