Picnic Fare: Serious Eats

Nothing is more summer time than picnicking.

Its spontaneous, easy, relaxing, perfect for couples, groups, kids and perhaps an out of the box work thing.

Homemade fare can be fun, but with so many convenient options available you can treat yourself to a more decadent feasst, catered by people who mean serious business, because it is their business.

Fancy yourself some basil pesto parmesan chicken salad, or ham, tomato and goat cheese baguette melts? A La Carte is one of the North Shore’s premier gourmet food stores. You can carry out for small orders, or call ahead for large party catering. Don’t forget sumptuous desserts like chocolate covered strawberries, Oreo cheesecake squares or lemon custard tartlettes.

With four North Shore locations to choose from, Foodstuffs offers gourmet cuisine from healthy to decadent. Smaller groups can design their own salad, or choose made-to-order sandwiches or wraps. Large party trays include selections such as crudités, fruit and cheese, seafood and beef tenderloin. Their dessert selection includes decadent cupcakes, brownies and cookies, packed safely to travel.

If down home barbeque better suits your evening of blue grass in the park, head to Ravinia BBQ where they have been serving happy diners and packin’ take out for over two decades. Get a slab of succulent ribs, perfectly spicy wings, and don’t forget sides like cole slaw, guacamole and chips or broasted potatoes with honey. They’ll have you on the road faster than you can say “quality, quantity and quickly.”

If a good old fashioned premier plat nosh is what you’re after, Bacio Italian Deli has a wide selection of cheese, olives, meat, fresh bread for you to snack the night away finger-food style. The perfect accompaniment to a good bottle of wine and a beautiful summer night.

Another easy and believe it or not reasonable options is Whole Foods – prepared grab and go items. Please note we’re talking about the pre-packed salads and sandwiches... not the items in the big glass case. The sandwiches are monster big and the salads too are large enough to buy a few and mix and match.

Where to pick up picnic goodies:

A La Carte
111 Green Bay Road, Wilmette
847.256.4102

Foodstuffs

2106 Central Street, Evanston
847.328.7704

338 Park Avenue, Glencoe
847.835.5105

1456 Waukegan Road,Glenview
847.832.9999

255 Westminster Road, Lake Forest
847.234.6600

Ravinia Barbecue and Grill
594 Roger Williams, Highland Park
847.433.1111

Bacio Italian Deli
424 Sheridan Road, Highwood
847.432.1090

Whole Foods Deerfield, Northbrook, Evanston

Laura Folkl