Articles & Stories | Rockford IL

Sab Sab at Thai Jasmine Rice & Noodles

Thai Jasmine Rice & Noodles, located at 5839 Forest Hills Rd, Rockford, IL 61114, is a small family-run restaurant that serves up authentic Thai dishes that are out of this world! We had to check it out for ourselves.We started our meal with potstickers because one of us is an enthusiast. This fried dish is served piping hot and with a savory soy sauce that compliments the filling perfectly. And it comes with an even number, so there are no table fights for that last piece.After that, we decided to try a dish off their Special Sab Sab menu, the Thai Style Beef Jerky: deep fried stripped marinated flank steak served with Sticky Rice and Sriracha dipping sauce. You can choose your spice level on this dish, and since we were first-time diners... we opted for medium. We enjoy a good kick and I think we could handle a step up or two, but medium is perfect for those who like to play with spice without any consequences. The beef is fried and a little bit crispy, and pairs beautifully with their sticky rice and the sriracha sauce. This is something I absolutely see myself returning for. It's also a simple dish... making it a crowd-pleaser.Next up, the Drunken Noodles: wide rice noodle stir-fried with your choice of meat, basil, onion, bell pepper, with chili and garlic basil sauce. We added chicken and went with medium spice again. I think the spice shown through on this dish a little bit more. The broad noodles are delicious, and the vegetables are fresh and crisp. The sauce is sweet, and this whole dish was just beautiful and delicious. With dishes such as Pad Thai and Curry, there is something for everyone at Thai Jasmine Rice & Noodles. Be sure to say hi to the chefs cooking with love from the kitchen. See you there, Rockford!

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Introducing The Shed at Lino’s on Riverside

Fall is upon us but outdoor dining is still in it’s hay day (fall joke). Lino’s at 8410 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL 61111 opened The Shed earlier this summer and we headed out to give it a try!Lino’s on Riverside is the perfect North East option for all your Lino’s dine out needs, but if you still want to enjoy your food there, you can! Ordering is all done online and the food is brought straight to your table. While they don’t offer the full Lino’s menu, they do offer all your favorite pizzas, pastas, appetizers, and of course salad! And yes, they serve adult beverages 😉.When you order, everything comes out together. If you like your salad before dinner, just separate your orders online. Out in The Shed you will have plenty to keep you busy. They have large table games and plenty of space for larger families and groups.We ordered salad, fried ravioli, gnocchi, half and half mostaccioli and meat tortellini. Do I need to tell you how delicious Lino’s salad is? I mean, if you haven’t tried it, please run… don’t walk… to Lino’s for dinner tonight. Dressed in their house Italian, and loaded with Italian sausage and hard boiled eggs… this is a hearty salad that the whole family enjoys. You can order by the serving at The Shed. We ordered 3 servings and left with extras. No small side salads here. The fried ravioli is also a crowd pleaser. You can dip and dunk in Lino’s house red sauce. The inside is stuffed with plenty of melted cheese.Lino’s pastas are all cooked to that perfect al dente. This was our first time trying the gnocchi and I think it’s a new favorite in our house. The texture is spot on, not sticky at all. The delightful plumpness of the gnocchi is so flavorful. You can add meatballs or Italian sausage if you’d like as well. You can’t go wrong with a classic mostaccioli and meat tortellini. I paired a couple meatballs with this one and I can’t rave enough about Lino’s meatballs. Hand made and prepared in their house sauce, these not only beef up your meal but are truly delicious and stand alone as a star on your plate.Whether you want to pick up and eat your dinner table, or have fun in The Shed with table games and a bottle of wine… you can’t go wrong with Lino’s for dinner. But hurry! The Shed is going to close for the season once the cold weather sets in. See you there, Rockford!

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2023 Drinks For The Dells

We are excited to announce the upcoming 2023 Drinks for the Dells event, which will raise funds for education programs at Severson Dells while providing a memorable afternoon featuring local breweries. The event will take place on October 14th from 12 pm to 4 pm at the picturesque Severson Dells Nature Center in the Rockford, IL area. Event Highlights:Craft Brews and Culinary Delights: Enjoy a variety of craft brews from local breweries, showcasing their finest creations to satisfy all taste buds. Participating breweries include Prairie Street Brewhouse, Pig Minds Brewing Co., Urban Forest Craft Brewing, Hairy Cow Brewing Company, and Forest City Brewers. Big Jon's Food Truck will also be present, offering classic favorites such as themed hot dogs that pair perfectly with the beers on tap, as well as vegan options.Entertainment: Local musicians Van Dwellers will provide the perfect background music for enjoying classic yard games or participating in exciting raffles.Supporting Severson Dells: By attending Drinks for the Dells, you directly support Severson Dells and their exceptional nature education programs. Your contribution helps bring nature education to our community and foster environmental appreciation for future generations.Ticket Information: General Admission tickets are $40 online and $50 on the day of the event. Designated Driver tickets are available for $10. You can purchase tickets online at seversondells.org/drinks-for-the-dellsSponsors: We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to our esteemed sponsors, including Sold on Toni, Williams McCarthy LLP, and Fitzgerald Equipment.

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Renovations Begin at Newly Named Victory Park in New Milford, Thanks to State Funding

The Village of New Milford has initiated a park improvement project to ensure that the public space caters to the needs of current and future generations. The park, previously known as Upper Park and situated at 2984 Morris Drive, New Milford, will henceforth be known as Victory Park. A new playground, pickleball courts, game courts, a drinking fountain with a water bottle filler, landscape plantings, a perimeter pathway with fitness stations, a parking lot, and a trail that links to Atwood Park are all part of the renovation plans. These amenities were carefully selected based on feedback from a community survey. The project is expected to enhance the quality of life for New Milford residents by providing new and exciting recreational opportunities. The renovation funding primarily comes from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant, which totals $600,000, and the Rockford Park District, which is contributing an additional $95,000. The project is scheduled to be completed by 2024.

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Curry Concoctions at House of India

The next time you are looking for a dinner that lets you travel the world with your taste buds, check out House of India at 6430 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL 61111. We headed out for dinner to try it ourselves.Your meal starts with papadam (think of a large wafer, or cracker) and 3 sauces for dipping. Each sauce has a flavor profile that is completely unique from sweet to spicy and savory.When you think of Indian food, you may be a bit scared of the spice. We are here to put your fears at ease! While the spice that traditional Indian dishes are famous for adds a ton of flavor and life, it doesn't always mean heat. Even those with a milder temperature tolerance can enjoy the beautiful tastes of House of India. They have three levels to choose from: mild, medium, and hot.We ordered two entrees: Tandoori Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala; as well as the accompanying sides: Saffron Rice and Garlic Naan (ok, 2 orders of Garlic Naan because it's just that good).Tandoori chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices in a tandoor (clay oven). While this ranked mild on the spice level, the spices used to marinate the chicken were phenomenal. The chicken was cooked so tender that it practically fell off the bone and the flavor is just delicious. Like a little fire? Medium goes a long way, and hot isn't a false advertisement.If you have never tried Indian food before, I recommend the I Chicken Tikka Masala because it is a fan favorite. The dish is bite-sized pieces of chicken in a spiced creamy curry tomato sauce. This is where the saffron rice came in! You ladle the Tikka Masala over the rice and create your own dish. I ordered the medium spice, and I feel like this is still safe for milder temperature tolerances. The curry has a lovely velvety texture and the flavor is stunning. The rice is the perfect bed for this creamy dish.Let's talk about the Naan... You are in for a treat! House of India has a couple flavors of Naan, and you definitely want to order some for the table (or yourself) to enjoy. It arrives at the table freshly prepared and so wonderfully warm. The Garlic is a house favorite and one bite will tell you why.No matter what you choose from their menu, it is sure to please. Step out of your box and try something new! See you there, Rockford!

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Dinner and a Show at JMK Nippon

Celebrating a special occasion, or want to put a spark in your weekday dining experience? Check out JMK Nippon, featuring tableside grills, sushi, traditional Japanese mains & bento boxes, at 2551 N Perryville Rd, Rockford, IL 61107. We headed out to JMK Nippon to enjoy dinner with the whole family. We all love sushi, so we started with the Rainbow Roll, Surf & Turf Roll, and the Crunchy Roll. These rolls are huge! Off their premium menu, these are definitely shareable and are large enough to be their own meal. The Rainbow Roll was topped with fresh fish with stunning flavor. The Surf & Turf features grilled steak and is a great roll for the whole family.After the sushi, you stay for the show as they cook dinner in front of you at the tableside grills. We ordered the Dinner for Two, which came with a side salad drizzled with ginger dressing and onion soup for each of us. The soup has fresh green onion and mushrooms and has a hearty flavor to it.Next up, your chef arrives and starts to entertain the whole table with knife and fire skills. We all received a shrimp appetizer cooked in teriyaki sauce and a generous squeeze of lemon. Fresh zucchini and onion were served next. We upgraded to the filet mignon and the fried rice. The steak is cooked to your temperature preference, and coated in delicious teriyaki sauce. The filet melted in our mouths. The chef did an awesome job preparing it just right. Our dinner also came with teriyaki chicken. The meat is generously portioned, and paired with everything else on your plate, so you are definitely not leaving hungry!Dinner gets served as it is cooked and prepared, so you have something new to munch on every few minutes.Make sure to bring the whole family out to JMK Nippon for your next dinner out. See you there, Rockford!

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Corkscrew Mac at Screw City Tavern

Screw City Tavern, located at 4412 Manchester Dr, Rockford, IL 61109, is known for their awesome brunch, great live music, and amazing dinner options like their Corkscrew mac and cheese. Read on for all the gooey details!We stopped by to enjoy Screw City Tavern's patio on a beautiful summer evening. One thing was for certain, we had to try their mac and cheese and famous handhelds. Their patio has comfy seating and umbrellas for shade. They have an indoor stage and host live music most weekends. (More opportunity to order this mac and cheese... 😉)Just to keep the gooey details to ourselves a little longer... let's talk about the handhelds! We ordered the Prime Rib Stack: shaved prime rib, pepper jack cheese, pickled red onions, and garlic aioli, all on a butter-toasted brioche roll. Screw City Tavern offers sweet potato waffle fries, so of course we went that route. Crispy and fried to perfection, the fries are everything you hope and dream for. The prime rib is perfectly prepped, and tender. No need to cut your way through this sandwich. The garlic aioli is spot on, and spread generously. Paired with the melted cheese, this sandwich is the right amount of mess.Alright, alright, let's talk about this mac and cheese! Listen, I consider myself a mac connoisseur, and this mac and cheese knocked my socks off. We sampled the Loaded Brisket Mac: cavatappi pasta, shaved prime rib, bacon, moonshine BBQ drizzle, pickled red onions, green onions, and topped with garlic breadcrumbs. The cheese sauce was so incredibly creamy, and paired with the BBQ drizzle... the flavor was as divine as the texture. The prime rib pieces were cut to a bite-size, making this an easy meal to eat without a knife. This means you can eat this delicious dish that much faster. The garlic bread on the side is almost stealing the show! Toasted to a crisp outer, and soft inner perfection with a buttery garlic flavor that is perfect for dipping in the cheese sauce.If you also consider yourself a mac connoisseur, head down to Screw City Tavern and try every variety on the menu. See you there, Rockford!

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Outdoor Dining with Smokin Coop BBQ Pit

If you haven't been to Smokin Coop BBQ Pit yet this season, put it on the calendar before time runs out! Located at 2022 US-20 BUS, Belvidere, IL 61008, this family-run BBQ hot spot is perfect for outdoor dining.The Smokin Coop BBQ Pit has done amazing remodeling if you haven't been in a while. They expanded their seating and increased the covered dining section. When you head up front to order, it's not an easy decision! All the meats are smoked and cooked on-site. And don't forget to save room for their pie and ice cream from the Dairyhaus!We decided to go with two dinner combos, the beef brisket and a half rack of ribs. First of all, the rib meat was cooked perfectly and fell right off the bone, not leaving anything behind. It melted in your mouth and was coated in the perfect layer of their house BBQ sauce. Like your ribs messy? They have extra sauce on the table for you to add as you wish!The brisket is tender, juicy, and served thick sliced. The generous pile of meat made an easy second meal (especially since we ordered the 8oz sides). You can add BBQ sauce, or leave it dry. The smoked flavor really stands out on this dish, and it tends to be quite popular. The brisket is also available as a sandwich.Let's get into the sides! With choices like coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, and more... you can't go wrong. You can also get their famous mac and cheese as a side for a slight upcharge. The coleslaw is made fresh daily and has that delightful fresh crisp. The baked beans are loaded with pieces of pork, which really ups the flavor profile and makes them quite filling. The mac and cheese is homemade with gouda and has a flavor unique to Smokin Coop BBQ Pit. It is a crowd favorite that you can order as a meal with pork or add as a side.The combo dinners are served with either cornbread or a dinner roll for that extra touch. The cornbread was fantastic, with a slight hint of honey.Smokin Coop BBQ Pit closes at the end of September so be sure to make your plans to visit now! See you there, Rockford.

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Happy Labor Day

Labor Day is a holiday that honors all workers. It also signifies the end of summer. The holiday is celebrated on the first Monday in September in the United States and Canada. Workers of all kinds enjoy the day off. It is a time for them to celebrate all that their work has made possible.Labor Day was first celebrated in the United States in New York City on September 5, 1882. At that first Labor Day, workers paraded in order to show their unity and desire for fair working conditions.We at Rockford Buzz would like to wish everyone a Happy Labor Day! Stay safe and enjoy the fruits of your labor!!!

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Specialty Dishes at Prime

Have you checked out Prime on 6565 Lexus Dr, Rockford, IL 61108? They are an Italian Steakhouse with specialty pasta, steak, and more. We ventured in to try it ourselves.First of all, you always have me at Lobster Bisque. It's not even a question, we are ordering it. What I love about the Lobster Bisque at Prime is that it has a little spicy kick to it! This is definitely still an approachable soup for mild fans, it just has a little heat that adds a surprise twist to this classic soup. Loaded with pieces of lobster, this soup feels and tastes luxurious.Next up, their 14oz Rib Eye with a garlic parmesan crust, bruschetta reduction, broccolini, and scallop potatoes. This is a big rib eye, so come hungry! The garlic parmesan crust is perfection, and the bruschetta reduction is a delightful new flavor. Your favorite bread topping might also become your favorite steak topping. The lightly sweet broccolini pairs excellently with the reduction, and who doesn't love potatoes?! Prime nailed the rare temp we requested on this steak, and it just melts in your mouth. This next one is for the special fans out there. Available only on Wednesdays and Thursdays you can ask for Chef Kenny's special Beef Wellington recipe. Be sure to call ahead to book your reservation so he can have it ready for you. Trust us, it's worth the extra 30 seconds on the phone. This take on a classic uses phyllo dough to get that crisp layered crust. The mushroom and spinach layer is thick, adding some serious heft to this dish. And the part that won me over, was that it can be prepared to your temp preference. Beef Wellington is a hard to find treat, and Prime's recipe is a fun and fresh spin on the classic.If you are a wine drinker, Prime has done all the hard work and suggests a few pairings for you to play with and explore for each dish. If you prefer something a little more playful, check out their new smoke bubble cocktails.So whether you have a reason to celebrate, or it's just a Wednesday, make your next dinner reservation with Prime. See you there, Rockford!

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Full Moon Poetry

The Gro Community's motto states that they are ‘Molding boys and healing broken men.’ They offer services such as counseling and gun violence prevention. They will be hosting a Poetry event this Wednesday (08/30/23) from 6 pm-9 pm. Head down to the RPL Nordlof Center (118 N Main St, Rockford, IL). Rockford Public LibraryFor more information please call (815) 987-6660 or visit http://www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/content/nordlof-cente

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Welcome RBI Bourbon Street Lounge

RBI has new owners, new management, and new hours, and has transformed into Bourbon Street Lounge! Located at 3870 N Perryville Rd, Rockford, IL, check it out to experience the new environment and the bourbon wall.We got a little bit of everything to try the new menu and started with the steak sandwich. Served open-faced, on a hearty hoagie, with smothered in onions and cheese, this sandwich will fill you up. The steak was the perfect thickness to bite into sandwich style, but they do bring a steak knife in case that is more your style. It comes with your choice of side as well.Next up, the chicken fajitas. Served on hot cast iron with onions and peppers, you get the satisfaction of that sizzling delivery. Served with refried beans and rice, you have all the ingredients of a build-it-yourself dinner. Their fajitas are also available in steak or shrimp to give you the flavor profile you prefer.Because I can never say no to chicken alfredo, we had to order it! A generous portion of linguine is topped with grilled chicken breast and smothered in Alfredo sauce. Served with a breadstick, this is a hearty pasta dish that can satisfy your appetite.Next time you want to sample a few bourbons, visit RBI Bourbon Street Lounge. See you there, Rockford!

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Brunch at The Pomodoro

Brunch is sweeping the Rockford region, and we love that we can get brunch at The Pomodoro, 6500 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL, on Sundays from 11am-2pm!We had to order the bottomless mimosas, obviously. A classic brunch beverage, but at only $10 a person... you can't miss adding these to your order. Available in a few flavor varieties, you won't get bored!We started with the breakfast pizza: sausage gravy, along with scrambled eggs, bacon, and colby jack cheese on their New York style crust. You can request extra sausage gravy on the side to really embrace your love for gravy. The cheese on this pizza is impressive. It had that beautiful cheese pull apart vibes. The scrambled eggs were thick, fluffy, and plentiful. Huge New York style slices require two hands, but make this a fun and delicious brunch staple. Their crust is soft, letting you fold your slice in half like a pro.Next up was the Short Rib Hash. Rosemary potatoes are piled high with marinated short rib meat, onions, and bell peppers. This is the perfect brunch for the meat and potatoes fan in your family. If you haven't tried The Pomodoro's short rib, this is an excellent opportunity to do so. They take immense care in slow cooking and marinating the meat so that the flavor is the shining star of any dish it's featured in. It melts in your mouth and makes this brunch dish feel luxurious. Maybe even try dipping those potatoes in the sausage gravy 😉.With The Pomodoro's awesome staff, you can't go wrong for brunch, lunch, or dinner. See you there, Rockford!

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Mexican Favorites at Plaza Los Pancho's Mexican Grill & Cantina

Do you remember the Machesney Park Mall? Plaza Los Pancho's Mexican Grill & Cantina is serving classic Mexican dishes the whole family will love just outside the old mall's grounds at 8660 N 2nd Street, Machesney Park, IL. Read on while we share our experience!Let's be honest, we come for the chips and salsa... stay for the margaritas... and order entrees because it all sounds so delicious! And that's exactly what happened at Los Pancho's. The chips hit the table with a small carafe of salsa. No sharing your bowl of salsa here, so feel free to double and triple dip to your heart's content. This is especially good for those of us who may be salsa hogs 😂. Your family will finally have a chance to enjoy the salsa as well. Los Pancho's salsa is chunky and packed with flavor. It's on the mild side, meaning all family members can dig in and enjoy. And with bottomless service... eat up!Next we ordered the Plaza Los Pancho's Special, a bed of nacho chips covered with cheese sauce then topped with a beef and a chicken tamale, shredded cheese, lettuce and sour cream, served with two taquitos (one beef and one chicken). What sounds like just a plate of fancy nachos is so much more! The flavor in the taquitos was outstanding! The meat was juicy and spiced to perfection, and the satisfying taquito crunch was ever present. These didn't get soggy or lose their crunch at all. The tamales, I mean... I don't even know where to start. The tamale dough was so incredibly delicious, and the filling was even better. I would order this again just for the tamales! This is a pretty shareable plate as well... if you maybe had too many chips and salsa.Next up was a line up of five enchiladas (one beef one chicken, one cheese, one bean, and one shredded beef), served with shredded cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomato, and rancher sauce called Enchildas Tapatias. This is perfect for those indecisive guests who can't decide which protein to order. The shredded beef is delicious. You can tell it has been marinating in juices and spices until it reaches the perfect balance. All of these were amazing and wrapped in fresh made corn tortillas. The rancher sauce is a mild red enchilda sauce, adding flavor to the whole dish.Our small ordered a single enchilda with a side of rice and beans off the kids menu. I have it on good authority that the meal was "on fleek". With a review like that... what else do you need? 😂Next time you are craving Mexican cuisine, give Plaza Los Pancho's Mexican Grill & Cantina a try! You won't leave hungry or disappointed. See you there, Rockford!

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Pizza and Dessert with Rustic Oven Wood Fired Pizza

If you've had the pleasure of running into Rustic Oven Wood Fired Pizza at a local event, you know this food review will be full of cheesy goodness. Out of Winnebago, Rustic Oven Wood Fired Pizza travels to local events such as the Rockton River Market, the Oregon River Market, wineries, breweries, and so much more. They boast a large menu, often offering over 20 types of pizza at a time!We had to try the classics, such as sausage and pepperoni, but be on the lookout for their pickle pizza, brisket pizza, and so many more.Let's start with the handle, otherwise known as the pizza crust. One thing I love about them is the soft crust that's foldable and doesn't over power the main ingredients. The crust then gets fluffy at the end, giving you a solid handle to grip onto.The toppings are fresh and plentiful. I enjoyed the sausage crumbles. No lost sausage chunks on this pizza. The smaller crumbles stay put and are a fun and different approach. The pepperoni packed a flavor punch and were generously applied. Time to talk cheese... these pizzas are so incredibly cheesy and we think that is amazing. Cheese in every bite makes this a delicious pie.They even offer dessert pizza! We tried their Apple Pie Pizza and oh my yum! Coming out piping hot, this pizza is loaded with apple pie filling, dollops of cream cheese, and delicious streusel topping. The whole family was smiling when this hit the table, and we gobbled every last bite.Next time you see them around town, stop by and try the pie! See you there, Rockford.

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Sixth Annual Female Energy Festival

Evangelina at Indigo Beauty Boutique is bringing back the Femal Energy Show for its sixth year! It's a celebration of women owned businesses and you'll find something for everyone. Check out the video for the details and mark your calendars for Sunday, August 6th!

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Vegan Eats at Pig Minds Brewing Co.

Pig Minds Brewing Co at 4080 Steele Dr., Machesney Park, IL 61115 has been serving vegan delicacies for years! But honestly, you don't need to be vegan to enjoy. The food is so good, you may not even realize it's meat free. They also craft their own beer and brew it on-site.If you know us, you know we are suckers for a Reuben Roll. If it's on the menu, it's in our bellies. We knew just what to do when we spotted these on the Pig Minds menu. Everyone dug right into these. The flavors melded perfectly and the texture was spot on. If you like a super crisp crust, this is the place. Thicker to handle all the good stuff inside without falling apart, this crust was fried to perfection. Reuben Roll fans rejoice! These pair beautifully with the options on the beer menu and scratch that craving itch.Next up, the Crunch Wrap. A tip of the hat to your favorite late night throwback, this fresh rendition will bring you all the sweet nostalgia without the regret. House gringo meat, pico, avocado, shredded lettuce, and chipotle mayo grace you with their presence with the delightful crunch of a fried tortilla in the middle of it all. Served with fresh pico and tortilla chips, you have a filling meal that will make you feel like an indestructible teen again. The chipotle mayo really brings this sandwich to life and gives it a little kick. It's also a great option if you want tacos with less mess.After that, we tried the Gyro. Yes, a vegan Gyro. Pig Minds has genuinely nailed the flavor and texture of this Greek favorite. This was bursting with flavor and served piled high with house-made seitan. It comes in a warm pita, as an added perk. Served with your choice of side, you won't walk away from this sandwich hungry.Last but not least, we gave the Buddah Zoodle Bowl a try. Loaded with fresh zucchini noodles, rice, carrots, avocado, sweet peppers, and crispy tofu, this cold bowl is perfect for raw veggie lovers. You can swap the tofu for a different protein if you prefer, giving you the option to really make this bowl your own. Topped with Tahini sauce, the fresh flavors blew our minds, and since it's served raw it makes for perfect day 2 left overs.Whether you are vegan or not, stop by Pig Minds Brewing Co. to sample their brews, full bar, or menu! See you there, Rockford!

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Authentic Flavor at Javi's Tacos

Summer is all about food truck flavors, and we love trying new trucks! Javi's Tacos is a local food truck that travels around town, but also cooks out of the kitchen at CJ's Public House. If you like traditional Mexican flavors, you absolutely have to visit Javi's Tacos. Three tacos are only $7 and are offered with your choice of meat and toppings. We highly recommend the traditional style, but American is available if you just love that crisp lettuce crunch.Let's start by saying... these tacos looked and smelled so good, that Jake completely forgot to take a photo. This is, in fact, a photo straight from Javi's Tacos Facebook page. When we are so mesmerized that we forget the photo... you have something good on your hands.We actually tried the al pastor, which was the perfect balance of sweet and savory. You could taste the pineapple's sweetness, but it wasn't overwhelming. All the flavors got a chance to shine. The sign of a quality taco is the strength of its tortilla. Happy to report, these corn tortillas held up to the heft of the taco perfectly. The al pastor juices dripped down our hands, but the tortilla held firm. Perfection.Whether you see them out and about in the truck, or visit them on a CJ's night, make sure to tell them Rockford Buzz sent you and order a taco for us!

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Pizza Night at Woodfire Rockford

Pizza night is all about fun and family, and Woodfire Rockford at 408 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104 really emphasizes the best parts of pizza night.Woodfire is known for amazing fresh ingredients and made in-house everything. They make their pasta in-house, and the dough for all the delicious pizzas. They have delicious gluten-free options as well.We started with the classic Sausage and Mushroom. A perfectly balanced red sauce is the base for this family classic. The crust is just beautiful. Fluffy at the ends, but sturdy and thinner for the pie portion. The oil and salt on the crust to make it packed with flavor. No leftover crusts to be found. The fresh mozzarella on top is the perfect pairing to the housemade sausage and fresh mushrooms. It's a classic for a reason.Next up, BBQ Chicken Pizza! This time, a sweet BBQ sauce is the base, and grilled chicken, onions, and pesto grace the top. The pesto added a savory edge to this pizza. The kids still love this pizza, and the elevated toppings make this winner for the adults too.You can get even fancier with their Lobster pizza and more. Make sure to save room for their dessert pizza, too! See you there, Rockford.

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Cupcakes at Sugarjones

Welcome to a dessert edition of food reviews. Personally, I think we need to do these more often 😜. The call of cupcakes is hard to resist, so we visited Sugarjones to answer the call.First of all, let's talk about the variety. You walk in and there is literally something for everyone. Fruit flavors, chocolate, vanilla, and specialties like milky way, cookies and cream, peanut butter, and so much more! They even have gluten-free flavors that they take extra care to keep separated from the other cupcakes. Only here for the frosting? Grab a frosting cup! A little edible cup of chocolate is filled with either vanilla or chocolate buttercream... the perfect sized serving to scratch your frosting itch.Now let's dig in! The cake is... everyone's favorite word... moist. Crazy moist, super moist, deliciously moist... ok, I'm done 😉. You can usually find it filled with caramel, frosting, or some other sweet filling, and it's topped with their made-in-house buttercream in a variety of flavors. Here is my favorite thing, feel free to buy that extra cupcake, because it will be just as delicious on day 2! If one makes it day 3... congratulations on your self-control 😂.They rotate flavors regularly, so stop in often to try everything! See you there, Rockford!

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Salamone's North

You’ve been to Salamone’s in Cherry Valley, but did you know that Salamone’s North is located at 2583 N. Mulford in Rockford, IL? Stop in for a taste of Italy closer to town, and check out our experience!I'm a complete sucker for toasted ravioli, so that's where we started. This is a pretty classic appetizer, but Salamone's North hit it out of the park! Their sauce is a mix of sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd pleaser. The sauce is also served hot. I can't tell you how great this simple measure is. These guys are packed with cheese and an awesome way to start your meal.Next up, the Seafood Portofino: shrimp, scallops, mussels, and mushrooms over a bed of linguine pasta in a creamy white sauce. This is an awesome seafood dish, loaded with the assortment of seafood that are all perfectly cooked. The mushrooms are clearly fresh and complimented the dish beautifully. The creamy white sauce isn't the standard alfredo, but a unique sauce that pulls all the flavors together.If you can't decide what you want, our next dish will be the perfect fit for you. The Tour of Italy has a little bit of everything: a portion of fettuccine alfredo, homemade meat lasagna, and chicken parmigiana. At an extremely affordable price, this satisfies all your flavor cravings and fills you up! This plate boasts both red sauce and alfredo sauce, which is the ultimate Italian flavor debate. No more need to choose! The pastas are all the perfect al dente, the sauces are on point, and the chicken was fried to crispy perfection.All entrees are served with soup or salad, and we highly recommend checking out the specials menu! It rotates seasonally and you won't be disappointed. See you there, Rockford!

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Welcome The Mill Saloon!

You've driven down 251. You've seen the sign. It's finally time. The Mill Saloon is open! We dined during their soft opening to check it out for ourselves.Nothing says neighborhood bar like cheese curds, so that's how we started our meal. These are not your average cheese curds though! Huge chunks of white cheddar are lightly breaded and fried to melty goodness. Traditionally served with ranch, but we got marinara on request! These were delicious and will be a staple to future visits.They named a burger on the menu after themselves, and it felt wrong not to try their namesake menu item, so The Mill Saloon Burger was next! A thick burger patty topped with bacon bbq sauce, fried onions, and tons of cheese. Served on a hearty bun that stood up to the challenge, this burger deserved it's name. The burger was a perfect medium and juicy. Choose your side to make it an awesome meal. We tried their classic battered fries, fried to the perfect crisp. They also have sweet potato fries and plenty of other side options.Sticking with the neighborhood bar theme, we couldn't leave without trying their wings. We ordered 12 pcs with 2 sauces: garlic parmesan and buffalo. If you order two sauces it comes out as sides to dip in. You get to control the mess a little more and sauce it just the way you like. The buffalo was spicy, but not so hot that it had no flavor; the perfect combo. The garlic parmesan was thick and full of chunks of parmesan. These were big wings! The meat was tender and fell off the bone.The Mill Saloon has been a long time coming, but it's worth the wait! A copy of their story is on every table to share their journey and introduce their staff. See you there, Rockford!

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Throwback Specials at Lucha Cantina

Did you know that Lucha Cantina, located at 1641 N Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, has a hidden menu item? Keep reading to find out what it is! But in the meantime, I'm going to tease you with a bunch of other food 🤤.So there we were, walking into Lucha Cantina... dreaming of margaritas, when behold... they have updated their menu! We had to try the new Elotes Rangoons. Think crab rangoon, but instead of crab and cream cheese they grilled up some shrimp and mixed them with their Elote Dip, dusted with smoked paprika and served with sweet chile sauce. These. Are. Mouthwatering. What a fun twist on a classic appetizer. No 4 rangoons here, there is a heaping pile coming your way. You could definitely share... but we recommend against it 😉.Next up, the Carnitas Tacos. Lucha Cantina's amazing carnitas along with fresh spinach, chihuahua cheese, red onion, Lucha Queso, sour cream and diced olives make up these tacos. Served on homemade corn tortillas with the new Lucha Patatas or the classic rice and beans, your choice! I love the carnitas at Lucha. The meat is juicy and tender, and packed with flavor. It's a great choice if you are looking to avoid spice, because these tacos don't pack any heat. You also can't beat the tortillas at Lucha. These bad boys are tough enough to keep any taco from becoming a crumbly mess. And a tough tortilla is needed for the generous pile of carnitas meat each taco has to hold.Now that I have your attention, let's talk about something you won't find on the menu! Were you devastated when they remastered the Cheesesteak Chimi? Did you get over the sadness when you discovered the new chimi was delicious? Do you still miss the old chimi anyway? I think you get it by now... you can still order the old chimi! Just ask for it and you'll be brought back to the original Cheesesteak Chimi glory. This big burrito is covered in Lucha's queso, enough said 😂. But in case you need another reason to give this a try, let's talk about the inside. Packed with rice, beans, steak, onions, peppers, and more, this burrito packs a punch. The jalapenos make this one a tiny bit spicy, but the flavor isn't drowned out by the heat.Whether you want to try the new or the old, we look forward to seeing you at Lucha Cantina!

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Dinner at Dos Reales

We wandered down to Dos Reales at 5855 E State St, Rockford, IL for a fabulous dinner to celebrate the end of the week (all the reason you need to celebrate 😉).First off, I noticed the guacamole cart right when we walked in. The decision was made, and we ordered guacamole. Fresh made to your order, this is worth every penny. The mix was so fresh and packed with flavor. 10/10, would absolutely recommend. The chips even came out warm! They serve a chunky style salsa that is simply delicious.Next up, margaritas! They offer a house margarita with a variety of liquors, plus the option to add an additional mix of your choice to liven it up even more. We ordered the fajita burrito, which absolutely blew us away! With queso poured on top, this might just leave you licking your plate clean... if you can finish it after all that guacamole. Packed with fresh grilled veggies and the meat of your choice, it comes with rice and beans to truly insure you have left overs to use to make all your coworkers jealous at lunch. The fajita flavor truly shines in this dish and it is definitely a new favorite of ours.We ended with Enchildas Suprema, a classic dish. This is the best way to sample all the flavors and most popular meats in one dish. The corn tortillas were layered with red sauce and topped with sour cream, more guac, and salad. The meats were flavorful and tender. I highly recommend the shredded beef. Simply delicious.If you haven't been to Dos Reales yet, load up the family and head on down. The service was fast and friendly, and the food will bring you back again and again. See you there, Rockford!

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Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

Page 3 | Positive Stories & Articles | Rockford IL

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Sab Sab at Thai Jasmine Rice & Noodles

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Full Moon Poetry

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Welcome RBI Bourbon Street Lounge

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Mexican Favorites at Plaza Los Pancho's Mexican Grill & Cantina

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Pizza and Dessert with Rustic Oven Wood Fired Pizza

Sixth Annual Female Energy Festival

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Sixth Annual Female Energy Festival

Vegan Eats at Pig Minds Brewing Co.

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Vegan Eats at Pig Minds Brewing Co.

Authentic Flavor at Javi's Tacos

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Authentic Flavor at Javi's Tacos

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Pizza Night at Woodfire Rockford

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Cupcakes at Sugarjones

Salamone's North

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Salamone's North

Welcome The Mill Saloon!

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Welcome The Mill Saloon!

Throwback Specials at Lucha Cantina

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Throwback Specials at Lucha Cantina

Dinner at Dos Reales

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Dinner at Dos Reales

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