#03 Forest Park Portillo's

"For much of its history, Forest Park was known as a 'city of cemeteries,' with more dead 'residents' than living ones; some figures estimate the ratio at 30:1, dead to alive."* In fact, that was the nature of our visit today.  We were down to visit the grave-sites of Joy's parents and grandparents.  It's hard to believe that her parents have been gone since 1996 (Al) and 1997 (Lorraine).  We miss them a great deal!  So it is with fitting tribute (Joy's mom was a great cook, and Joy's dad a great eater) that I dedicate this Portillo's visit to them.  However, before I start, I will tell one of Al's favorite jokes.  When asked why he ate so fast he would always reply with either, "you should have seen how fast I ate before I got ulcers," or, "I'd hate to lose my appetite half way through the meal!"

The Forest Park Portillo's sits on the corner of Roosevelt and DesPlaines.  Interestingly enough it sits directly across from the street from, you guessed it, a cemetery.  And if you have any doubts, check out the map, even though for some odd reason it's labeled 'Quiznos' - not the cemetery, the Portillo's.  Joy liked the design of this location, even though it's one of the smallest.  It looks like a 50's diner.  Josh had no comment, other than he tried a strawberry malt for the first time and enjoyed it, though he was covered with goosebumps or goose-pimples if you prefer.  There's one other thing about Forest Park you should know; it's the home of Ferrara Pan candy company - lemonheads, atomic fireballs, red hots, etc.  Not everyone knows this, but there is an outlet store on Harrison St. near Harlem Ave.  Here's a shout out to my friend Carla who works at FP!

Jeff:
Beef-N-Cheddar Croissant (yum - almost too good)
Joy:
Italian Beef (she said she needed some protein)
Josh:
Char-Broiled Chicken Croissant (tried to eat healthy but ...)
Fries
Strawberry Malt (interesting)














*Thanks Wikipedia