Mix & Match

"Mixed and Matched" Holiday Table

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:57:28 -0600

At Tabula Tua, the holidays mean pretty much one thing: lots of entertaining, and we know that many of you have your unique style and favorite dinnerware pieces. Do you use your fine china for these special occasions, or do you stick with a more casual setting? Do you have one line of dinnerware that you use, or do you “mix and match?”

After Thanksgiving, one of our loyal customers in Florida sent us the following picture of her table setting. She went the “mix and match” route, using some Juliska dishes and Match Pewter serving pieces. Not only does her table look beautiful, but her spread is making us hungry for our Christmas and Chanukah feasts!

Do you have some pictures of your holiday feasts? We’d love to see them - email us at customerservice@tabulatua.com if you do!

Our new neighbors, Butcher and The Burger

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:41:39 -0500

All of us at Tabula Tua would like to welcome Butcher and the Burger to our neighborhood and the best block on Armitage Avenue. Don’t let the name fool you - trust me, when I heard a burger shop was coming in next door, I thought, “Seriously? Do we really need more burgers in Chicago?” Well, this shop exceeded my expectations and is, as the write-up in Daily Candy suggests, “a cut above the rest.”

This is not your typical burger stop. Prime and grass-fed beef, salmon, shrimp, turkey, veggie, unusual sauces, fried egg and foie gras toppings are among the myriad of choices offered, plus they have excellent (and non-greasy) French fries. I’ve had three styles (so far…), though my favorite is the shrimp burger! More perks — the prices are reasonable and they offer a kid’s size for just $4 (a light lunch for “big kids”?). Beyond the food, it is also the cutest shop ever - you can’t imagine what they did with that narrow 100+ year-old space. Needless to say, we highly recommend that you make a visit.

And, when you’re done dining, bring in your Butcher & the Burger receipt to Tabula Tua and get $10 off your purchase of over $75 through November 15, 2011. We have the most outrageous steak and butcher knives. Be sure to ask!

Trip to Amish Country

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:39:02 -0500

By Laura

Ever since we started carrying Justin Rothshank’s wonderfully original pottery and tableware at Tabula Tua, I have been intrigued by the juxtaposition of the artist’s youthful and unique style with his home in the heart of Midwestern Amish country. After hearing a recent NPR story about The Electric Brew in Goshen, Indiana, I was inspired to take advantage of the incredible October weather, and two Saturdays ago two friends and I made a visit. The drive from Chicago was only 2.5 hours, but we could have been a million miles away.

Some of Justin Rothshank’s unique mugs (available at Tabula Tua).

We rolled into the sleepy town and headed to the Goshen Farmer’s Market, which sells all things local, from free-range meats and dairy to quilts and jewelry. We then checked into the Rose Lane Farm Bed & Breakfast, which is owned by Stephen and Rosetta Schmidt and sits on six acres of gorgeous farm- and wood-land about 15 minutes from downtown Goshen. We had a relaxing picnic of bread, cheese, and tomato salad from the farmer’s market, and then took a stroll around the property, crossing paths with the chickens that would be responsible for Sunday’s breakfast eggs. After eating we went back into Goshen to visit the Old Bag Factory. Once a Midwestern industrial centerpiece, the factory has been transformed into an artist hub, with sculptors and craftsmen using the space as a public workshop, while also having the opportunity to sell their goods. Our final destination on Saturday was The Electric Brew, where we joined a crowd of all ages listening to singer/songwriters Caralie Raymond and Dave Johnson - I particularly enjoyed the latter performer, who sounded a bit like Neil Young.

View from the B&B.

Sunday we awoke to the clip-clop of horses leading carriages of Amish and Mennonite folks to church. We enjoyed a breakfast made with ingredients directly from the farm, and returned to town where we visited one of the only places open on Sunday morning, the Olympia Candy Kitchen. Another “throwback” to a different era, they make hand-dipped chocolates and have a diner in the front where hard-working teens serve eggs and coffee (and a delicious homemade fruit lemonade that I had with apples and oranges). We finished the trip with a visit to Kercher’s Sunrise Orchard, where we picked perfectly ripe apples to bring back to Chicago.

DELICIOUS homemade fruit lemonade!

As I arrived back home, I was struck by how I have consciously moved in the direction of eating more locally-produced foods and supporting local artisans, and yet I had no idea that such an idyllic notion of “local” really even existed. But it certainly does, and it’s not very far, at all, from our doorsteps.

A scene from the orchard.

Party for a Cause!

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 13:54:03 -0500

Tabula Tua invites you to join us on Thursday, October 21 for An Evening with Michael Aram, internationally renowned artist and sculptor. Michael will personally inscribe pieces purchased at the event. Chicago’s own Carrie Nahabedian, Chef and co-owner of NAHA restaurant, will provide Mediterranean-inspired food and cocktails for the evening.

Both Michael’s and Carrie’s work have been heavily influenced by their Armenian roots, especially the preparations and traditions involving food and family. Michael and Carrie bring together their shared rich history and vibrant culture for a cause that is very personal to them. Tabula Tua will donate a percentage of the evening’s proceeds to Save the ArQ, a foundation that aims to create awareness of the Armenian community in Jerusalem.

A favorite: Apple Plate by Michael Aram

Please join us as we celebrate food, culture and beautiful tableware!

on Thursday, October 21
from 6:00pm to 9:00pm CT
at Tabula Tua, 1015 W. Armitage, Chicago, IL 60614

Michael’s newest and best known pieces are available from Tabula Tua. Secure your favorite piece at our pre-sale - starting today! (gift with purchase – quantities limited)

In addition, Michael has generously designed and crafted a one-of-a-kind sculpture, titled Perpetual Perseverance, which will be auctioned on eBay. The bidding will continue the night of the event with the winner announced at 8:30 pm at Tabula Tua.

Please RSVP at rsvp@tabulatua.com or 773.525.0816.

Exclusive Preview of Our Annual Sidewalk Sale!

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:41:21 -0500

Tabula Tua has been positively buzzing with excitement all day long in preparation for our annual sidewalk sale. Come into the store this weekend from July 17th to July 18th to save 40% on Serge Lesage Rugs and home accessories!

As a bonus, in honor of the Sheffield Garden Walk, early birds can join us for an in-store garden breakfast and 10% off all in-stock items on Saturday, July 17th, from 8:00am to 10:00am only!

Want to shop in your pajamas? Shop online at TabulaTua.com during the same time and use coupon code “EARLYRISER” at check-out to receive 10% off all in-stock items.

But if you have a chance, we really recommend coming into the store to save 40% on some really great pieces!

Some of our favorites include:

Select dinnerware from Mud Australia.

Select pieces from Stelton, including the famous Cylinda Coffee Pot, as mentioned in the New York Times.

These darling Number Cups from Eastern Accent International. These cups, numbered one through nine, are a sure-fire way to make sure no one’s drinks get mixed up while entertaining.

And some lovely tea and sushi sets from Kotobuki. I just love how the waves are so reminiscent of 19th century Japanese prints.

These are just a few of the great finds available. So be sure to stop in this weekend to take advantage of these great deals!

In the Kitchen with Mud Australia

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:00:00 -0500

In the Kitchen with: Mud Australia

We stumbled across this tempting photo while browsing through the archives at Design Sponge. I don’t think the word “Mud” has ever looked so appetizing!

The site features an amazingly simple recipe for soft-centered chocolate puddings created by Shelly of Mud Australia, a Sydney, Australia based creator of handmade porcelain dinnerware. These puddings are baked right in the bowl and go directly from oven to table! This recipe proves the dinnerware’s oven-proof capabilities. It also shows off the versatility and functionality of Mud Australia’s porcelain. Simple, sleek designs in amazing colors that are the perfect blend of form and function— it’s like a modernist dream-come-true!

Of course, here at Tabula Tua, we’ve always been a fan of Mud Australia’s dinnerware, entirely handmade from limoges and imperial porcelain. We carry the full line of Mud Australia dinnerware. Check it out on our site!

The bowls used in the recipe featured above are Baby Noodle Bowls in Citrus, Pink, and White. The Noodle Bowls are a popular item here at Tabula Tua, because they’re perfect for mixing and matching and suit a variety of occasions.

Of course, we’re excited to try out the recipe and partake in some delicious treats. Who doesn’t love chocolate?

If any of our dear readers have tried this or their own daring creations, we’d love to hear from you!

Here’s the first set of photos of our Legendary Chicago...

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

"Modern Wing"

"Dreihaus Mansion"

"Millennium Park"

"Chicago Botanic Gardens"

Here’s the first set of photos of our Legendary Chicago bridal event. We had the loveliest afternoon meeting lots of newly engaged couples and showcasing some of our favorite tabletop looks - all themed around historic locations in Chicago. Our event partners were extraordinary. Each vendor brought so many great ideas to the look and feel of the event. A big thanks to our partners, Heffernan Morgan, Calihan Catering, Studio This Is, Bittersweet, Jet Set Travel, Sarah Drake Design, Toast & Jam, and The Cocoa Room! Check in next week for more photos! All photos courtesy of Studio This Is.

Save the Date! Warehouse Sale @ Tabula Tua

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:45:59 -0500

So you’ve finally laid your holiday sweaters to rest, vacuumed up the stale popcorn kernels from in-between the sofa cushions and weeded through the tangled undergrowth of winter boots and mittens which had overtaken your coat closest in the haste of Spring Cleaning. Well, we have too. Only, we paraded around in our sweaters for a good laugh first and then tied all of the boot laces together before packing them away. As for the popcorn? Those kernels did not taste half bad if you ask me.

But Spring Cleaning only means one thing here at Tabula Tua: our Annual Warehouse Sale. We invite you to come shop our significant savings of 30 – 70 % off all discontinued and season’s past merchandise from our top vendors such as Match Pewter, Juliska, Michael Aram, Vietri, Serge Lesage and many, many more! This year, we are hosting the sale at our 1015 W. Armitage Avenue store location in Chicago. Sale begins Friday, April 23^rd (10 am – 7 pm), continues Saturday, April 24^th (10 am – 5 pm) and ends Sunday, April 25^th (11 am – 5 pm). Plus, receive a special gift certificate with each purchase! The sale is valid on select, in-store purchases only. So for all you local online shoppers, put your sneakers on and stop on by. Don’t worry though, you can stay in your pajamas if you really want to.

-Nicole

Meet Frances Palmer at Legendary Chicago

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:24:00 -0600

Tabula Tua is honored to host Connecticut based artist and potter Frances Palmer at our Legendary Chicago wedding registry event on the afternoon of Sunday, March 14^th. Not only will Frances be available to answer all of your dinnerware questions, but she will be bringing with her many of her hand made, one of a kind pieces created especially for our event.

For those of you who are not familiar with Frances Palmer, you are truly missing out. Her pottery has been featured in dozens of publications, including House Beautiful, Oprah, and Martha Stewart Magazine. Her pieces are classic, elegant and organic, yet extremely functional for everyday use. Just think, each of her pieces began with a slab of clay, a wheel and great pair of hands.

We hope to see you at Legendary Chicago! RSVP to rsvp@tabulatua.com or 773.525.6590.

{Photo courtesy of Frances Palmer Pottery}.

Fat Tuesday - Fat Wallet

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:53:00 -0600

Eat, drink, and …. Save? Enter the promotion code FATTUESDAY as you are checking out to save 15% on all online items (sorry, offer is not valid on Juliska, Match Pewter, in store purchases or wedding registries). So while your friends are unbuckling their jeans after one too many punskis, shop our site for great savings. And the best part? Our Fat Tuesday doesn’t end until Friday. Now there’s a figure friendly treat.

A Letter to Cupid

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:29:00 -0600

Dear Cupid,

You’re here already? I feel like just last week I was eating Santa shaped cookies and making my annual list of not so new New Year’s Resolutions. I am still finding pine needles in my carpet and you’re shooting arrows at my wreathed door. There are eight inches of snow on the ground but my inbox is flooded with e-mails speaking of flip flops and bathing suits. My apologies Cupid, it seems you’re old news and it’s not even the 14^th.

Regardless, your arrival means Tabula Tua’s Legendary Chicago Wedding Event is almost a month away. On Sunday, March 14th we will be hosting brides, grooms, and their guests to the store for an afternoon of wedding inspiration and indulgence. I don’t want to give too much away, but we will be unveiling five place settings inspired by the best this city has to offer. Plus, Calihan Catering will be serving up delicious hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. And bridal diets will be temporarily ruined by sweet treats by Bittersweet. Most importantly, we’ll be here to assist couples in creating their perfect registry.

So, I was wondering if you could spread the word while you’re out this weekend? I have a feeling you’ll be very busy on Sunday.

Love,

Nicole

{Arrow Tray by John Derian. $80}

You're Invited: Meet the Zhou Brothers at Tabula Tua

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:37:03 -0600

We’re hosting the internationally acclaimed Zhou Brothers at the store on Thursday, December 10th and we’d love it if you’d join us. Come and enjoy champagne & hors d’oeuvres prepared by the Chinese American Service League (CASL) Chef Apprentices. Plus, enter to win “Dreaming”, a mixed media piece, valued at $20,000. Event tickets are $15 and are available for purchase here. Tickets to win “Dreaming” are $300 and available through CASL. Hope to see you there!

InStyle Holiday Gift Guide: Blue Leaves

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:33:48 -0600

Have you checked out InStyle’s amazing gift guide? Our beautiful spoons from Blue Leaves are featured as a great gift for friends & family. We couldn’t agree more. That’s why we are offering 20% off any Blue Leaves item with a code INSTYLE09 until December 30th. Click here to check out the full Blue Leaves collection. -Jenna

Spotted at Nomi: Raynaud Salt & Pepper Box

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:36:00 -0600

Foodies take a note from NoMI - no table is complete without this salt and pepper box from Raynaud. This adorable porcelain creation is shaped like a flower and holds up to 6 different types of salt and pepper. Is this not the ultimate foodie holiday gift? Forget cheese of the month club - my sources say salt is the new black. Plus, it’s designed by Thomas Keller as part of his Hommage Collection - the ultimate epicurian’s dinnerware. Click here to order or call 773.525.6590. Photo courtesy of Elizabites. - Jenna

At Long Last: Modern Casserole Recipe Contest Winner!

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0600

Thanks to all the participants in our modern casserole recipe contest! The decision was tough but in the end Katherine’s Chorizo Flamenco came out on top. Her dashing presentation (that’s her casserole in the middle with the colorful tortilla chips on top) and combination of flavors edged her ahead of the competition. So lovely blog readers, get yourself to the kitchen quickly and assemble this tasty treat. You’ll love it! Or head to John’s Place, where Katherine’s Chorizo Flamenco will be on the menu for a limited time. - Jenna

Katherine’s Chorizo Flamenco!

This recipe fuses the fun and bold flavors of the Latin pallet with the elegant simplicity of your classic American casserole. You will be overwhelmed with the deliciousness and festiveness as the ho-hum casserole gets woken up with savory flavors, turning any ole’ dinner dance into the festive Flamenco!

12 oz. chorizo

1 rotisserie chicken

1 red onion, chopped

1 1/2 c. sour cream

2 Serrano peppers, chopped

2 + 2 c. shredded Colby jack cheese

1/2 tsp. nutmeg

3 tsp. cumin

1/4 tsp. cayenne

1/4 tsp. black pepper

16 oz. refried beans

16 oz. black beans, rinsed and drained

1 c. assorted bell peppers, sliced

1 c. corn, thawed if frozen

1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

2 T olive oil

Flour tortillas

Tortilla chip strips

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a skillet, saute chorizo over medium heat until it becomes slightly darker in color and it renders some of its fat (approximately 5 minutes). Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, add sour cream, red onion, refried beans, chopped Serrano peppers, 2 cups of the cheese, and spices. Mix well. Then incorporate shredded rotisserie chicken, chorizo, black beans, corn, sliced bell peppers and chopped cilantro. Mix well.

In a 9” x13” casserole dish, lightly coat the bottom and sides with olive oil. Then add a layer of tortilla shells (you can trim the circular edges to resemble rectangular sheets or keep it rustic by folding the round edges up the oiled sides of the baking dish). This will allow the tortilla shells to become crisp and provide a firm base when serving the casserole. Add 1/3 of the mixture. Follow by adding a second layer or tortilla shells and another 1/3 of the mixture. Repeat and finish with a final layer of tortilla shells along the top. Spread the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until casserole is bubbling and cheese is melted. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish on top with tortilla chip strips and let the fiesta begin!

While this casserole needs no partner to dance the Flamenco, I love Latin dishes to have a variety of sides to add color and flavor to compliment the lusciousness of this casserole. So, I would recommend serving the Flamenco casserole with a side of white rice tossed with cilantro, shredded romaine lettuce, or homemade guacamole.

Enjoy!

What's cookin' good lookin'?

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:25:00 -0500

If you haven’t submitted a recipe to our modern casserole recipe contest yet - what are you waiting for?! We’ve received so many delectable submissions with casseroles for every meal from breakfast through dessert. Winning recipe takes home a $250 Tabula Tua Gift Certificate and a trophy that goes perfectly from your oven to your tabletop. And by trophy we mean large Juliska Casserole Dish. Be sure to check out the details here. Get cooking! Contest ends on October 15th.

Seattle 1, Chicago 0

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:00:00 -0500

Today is our beloved web manager, Erin’s, last day with Tabula Tua. She’s starting a new chapter in Seattle that will undoubtedly be big, bright and filled with coffee and rock & roll. Take good care of her Seattle - you’re lucky to have her. We wish you the best Erin. Safe travels. We’ll miss you!

Tabula Loves: Perfect Wedding Gifts

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:48:00 -0500

It’s that time of year again. Veils, bouquets, and crazy Aunt Gladys strapping on her dancing shoes - it can only mean one thing. Oh yes, wedding season is upon us. And this year, it seems like everyone from my childhood best friend to my next-door neighbor are saying “I do”. While I love weddings (heck, I used to plan weddings!), I find wedding gifts to be very intimidating. The idea of giving a gift for a lifetime is a little, umm nerve wracking. So when a blender won’t do, fear not - I’ve got you covered.

Most couples I know have an established kitchen, so adding another copper pot to their collection would only be a waste of precious metals. Why not help them build something a little more decadent, like their bar perhaps? These Glacier Double Old Fashioned Glasses from Artel ($362) will say “welcome home, honey” in the best possible way. If martinis are their drink of choice, this Match Pewter Martini Pitcher and Stirrer ($193 & $66) would make a stately addition to any bar.

If they love to entertain, give them pieces that will make a statement on their table for years to come. I adore the Serving Fork & Spoon from Blue Leaves ($70 each) - perfect for serving up side dishes. They’d look even better paired up with the Revolution Platter ($200) from Astier de Villatte. A couple with a sweet tooth? They will love serving up cake with this gorgeous Frankie Baroque cake server by FACES ($92).

For the couple who has everything, the Juliska Rose Bowl Vase ($72) would make a sweet addition to any home. I also happen to think it would make one fine bridesmaids gift. Or go bold (and big!) and get them this awe-inspiring Genie Bottle Decanter from Joe Cariati ($745).

-Jenna

Geneviève Lévy pillows in House Beautiful

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:11:06 -0500

We found these amazing linen throw pillows at the Maison&Objet show in Paris last September and we’re thrilled to have them featured in House Beautiful this month. Geneviève Lévy, inspired by travel and a long-time collector of paintings, reproduces artistic and poetic images onto unique objects, allowing them to become part of daily life. This collection of 100% linen pillow covers is inspired by the work of French artist Haby Bonomo.

But we should warn you—these pillows have been know to induce deep daydreams of far away horizons…

-Erin

What is the Tabula Tua Rug Walk, you ask?

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:52:00 -0500

Well you can’t leisurely stroll through beautiful and fragrant outdoor gardens ALL day, now can you? When you just can’t face another rhododendron, stop by the store this Satuday and Sunday, July 18-19, for the Tabula Tua Rug Walk in conjunction with the 41st Annual Sheffield Garden Walk and the Armitage Sidewalk Sale. We’ll have a selection of in-stock Serge Lesage rugs at 50% off along with special prices on french pottery like Terre e Provence and Sud, sushi sets and much more. See you there!

-Erin