Been there, thought that

Having cruised for 20 years, it is refreshing to see that Royal Caribbean has maintained, if not enhanced, its level of service and cruise experience. A recent 12-night cruise of the western Mediterranean out of Barecelona offered a refreshing resurgence in service, food and organization. To be fair, this cruise may not be for everyone for several reasons.   The itinerary originally included Nice, France, Rome, Venice, Salerno, Bologna, Italy and Kotor, Montenegro. Due to port conditions in Bologna, Split, Croatia was added to the itinerary. While the itinerary is outstanding, several of the ports are 60 to 90 minutes from excursion sites.   Rome is a prime example as the port of Civitavecchia is easily a 90-minute ride depending on traffic.   Also, as is the case with Mediterranean cruises, excursions are generally geared around historical sites including cathedrals and government buildings, so young children may not be interested in many of the excursions. Itineraries c

You know you’re in for an interesting Greek dinner when the restaurant doesn’t have Greek wine.                 And so it was at Yanni’s, 2601 Navy Blvd. in Glenview, Illinois.                 Centrally located in ‘The Glen,’ Yanni’s offers a spacious environment that provides a pleasant dining experience.                 Unfortunately, the service and food doesn’t quite measure up.                 Yanni’s menu offers the usual and customary Greek selections as well as some that seems to be a bit more unique – which is OK.   Several entrees are wrapped in Filo dough including salmon and chicken breast. While entrees are nicely presented, flavor is lackluster at best. Food, while presented fairly well, could also be served a bit warmer. Portion sizes are ample.                 Yanni’s offers fresh fish, but it seems they double label some entrees. For example, branzino was on the menu as was fresh Mediterranean Sea bass. They are, for the most part, one in the same.   I

One of the online descriptions of 545 North Bar and Grill in Libertyville describes it as a "Chic eatery & bar for modern American dining in an intimate, upscale room or patio with fireplace." Another reason you can't believe stuff you read online. 545 North Bar and Grill,    545 N Milwaukee Ave, in Libertyville, may offer a  "chic" bar, but in terms of providing a "upscale" dining experience, it falls short.  Our recent dinner there was, as all four members of our party said was average at best. The menu offers a modest selection with some items that may be of interest, but overall, the bill of fare is, well, average at best.  Perhaps what may contribute to this blahness are the descriptions that fail to shout uniqueness about a menu item.  It would be going into a Rolls Royce showroom and having Rolls described as "Made in England.  Includes wheels, seats and a dashboard."  The menu break things down by "small