Author, chef, caterer, restaurateur, CEO, wife, and mother, Carlyn Berghoff is the fourth-generation owner and operator of the Berghoff and CEO of the Berghoff Catering & Restaurant Group.
Carlyn's Latest Blog Entries
Feb 3, 2012
The perfect opportunity to throw a themed party with a game winning menu!
Jan 27, 2012
Staying true to my New Year's resolution this year...as a family!
Jan 13, 2012
The winter dish that warms my home with flavor and memories....chili!
Dec 21, 2011
The gift of inspiration and creativity...
Dec 19, 2011
Join us for a family friendly, fun filled New Year's Eve at the Berghoff!
Dec 14, 2011
An easy, festive, and inexpensive gift that is sure to please your friends and family this holiday!
Dec 9, 2011
Homemade holiday gifts are a creative and unique way to show the friends and family in your life just how much they mean to you.
Nov 29, 2011
Reinventing classic dishes through reusing all those Thanksgiving leftovers.
Nov 23, 2011
Help your Thanksgiving be hassle-free with the final weekly checklist.
Nov 17, 2011
Turkey Day is exactly one week away...are you checklists complete?
Nov 11, 2011
With a little preparation and planning turkey day can be a breeze that the whole family will enjoy...week 1 and 2 hassle free hints.
Nov 4, 2011
Can't stop eating all that Halloween candy...recycle it through this reinvented Berghoff favorite!
Oct 27, 2011
A combination of spooky dishes with some classic fall favorites, makes the perfect Halloween menu!
Oct 21, 2011
Carve some fun and fall into your home with these simple guidelines for throwing the perfect pumpkin carving party.
Oct 14, 2011
Celebrate the change of seasons with a tailgae that guests won't soon forget.
Oct 7, 2011
Being a working mom means putting my planning skill to use through planning my family's weekly dinners as well as what goes in their lunchboxes.
Sep 23, 2011
After a week of bratwursts for every meal, how will I reuse all these leftovers from Oktobefest in new ways at home and in the Restaurant?
Sep 14, 2011
The long awaited Berghoff's 26th annual Oktoberfest is finally here...join us today for our opening ceremonies and much more!
Sep 9, 2011
Helping give roots and wings to at risk youth...hanging with our partner charity, Mercy Home for Boys & Girls
Sep 7, 2011
One week and counting...join us for our Oktoberfest kick-off event tonight from 5-7 p.m.
Sep 2, 2011
What's the secret behind the number one all-time most popular Berghoff dessert and Oktoberfest favorite?
Sep 1, 2011
Shaking my bun and busting a move is my favorite part of Oktoberfest...check out this year's live music schedule.
Aug 26, 2011
Herman der German is getting ready to hit the town...spot him, snap a picture, and upload it to his twitter or facebook page and be entered for some great prizes!
Aug 25, 2011
New to Okotberfest...the Berghoff will attempt to break the Midwest record for the longest brat, with a 45 foot brat Thursday September 15th.
Aug 19, 2011
Buy a raffle ticket for a chance to escape to one fo the world's finest luxury resorts! Fingers crossed, a brat can dream!
Aug 17, 2011
It's Herman the Brat here...back from Germany and taking over Carlyn's blog, filling you in on all the Oktoberfest happenings!
Aug 16, 2011
Less than a month and counting...Oktoberfest is what's on my mind!
Aug 6, 2011
I could live without a stove, but not without a grill...what's on the menu for my grill party?
Jul 29, 2011
Summer means basil, and basil means pesto...try this twist on the traditional pesto, basil walnut (grapeseed oil) pesto.
Jul 26, 2011
Combining a classic space and contemporary art in the East Room Gallery at the historic Berghoff Cafe
Jul 13, 2011
Taking us back to how Berghoff all began and celebrating American Beer Month...
Jul 4, 2011
Celebrating the 4th in true American style...family, beach, fun, and a partriotic buffet!
Jun 25, 2011
In junction with The Taste of Chicago, with rave reviews, Berghoff brings back "A Taste of the Berghoff"
Jun 16, 2011
If we drink like it's summer...it may just come!
Jun 13, 2011
It's summer at the Berghoff...join us as we bring back our 200-Mile Initiative another year!
Jun 3, 2011
From my garden to yours...here's to hoping summer is finally here to stay!
May 27, 2011
What goes better with a holiday weekend and sunshine then picnics?
May 19, 2011
After much taste testing and researching, the winner of National Restaurant Association Food and Beverage Innovations Award is....
May 13, 2011
In celebration of Chicago and the "working heroes" that make our great city!
May 7, 2011
How better to show the mother in your life love, then with breakfast in bed?
Apr 29, 2011
It all began in May of 1893, outside the grounds of the Chicago World's Fair...
Apr 22, 2011
In celebration of Earth Day, going green begins in my kitchen!
Apr 14, 2011
Throwing and enjoying your own party can be easy...it's all about the planning!
Apr 8, 2011
Celebrating Berghoff birthdays and traditions...a woman's way!
Mar 30, 2011
Celebrating Berghoff, the home of Chicago's #1 liquor license and our right to beer...
Mar 24, 2011
What brings people together more than food? Being in the kitchen, actually preparing the food and making memories together!
Mar 17, 2011
Creating new and flavorful dishes while growing as a team...
Mar 10, 2011
Spring is right around the corner, but until then, let's eat and drink like it's here today with these fresh and easy ideas...
Mar 2, 2011
In honor of St. Patrick's Day, we celebrat all things corned beef!
Feb 22, 2011
Lunch or dinner, the Berghoff is buzzing!
Feb 18, 2011
My daughter's another year older, and I'm another year (gluten-free) wiser
Oct 26, 2010
Entertain your guests with this terrifyingly simple, themed spread.
Oct 14, 2010
Bringing my personal pantry to my professional kitchen
Aug 18, 2010
Learning to live with Celiac
Mar 8, 2010
The Celiac diagnosis
Jan 13, 2010
Did you know 10% out of 2 million couples get engaged on Valentine’s Day? The question is what’s the next step after your engagement?
Apr 7, 2011
On April 7, 1933, 81-year-old Herman Berghoff, secured the first two liquor licenses issued by the…
Mar 3, 2011
Learn how to make the perfect reuben for St. Patrick's Day! And don't forget to reuse and reinvent…
Sep 17, 2010
ABC7 covers Berghoff's annual Oktoberfest held at Chicago's Federal Plaza. Beer, brats, live music…
Jan 15, 2011
Berghoff's Annual Oktoberfest kicks off its 2010 fall season in Chicago's Loop with NBC's LeeAnn…
Sep 11, 2010
Carlyn Berghoff shares a classic Bavarian Apple Pancake recipe on NBC Chicago. Getting ready for…
Sep 13, 2010
Classic Berghoff bratwurst starring in three unique recipes: Brat Pizza, Brat & Spaetzle Soup…
Apr 7, 2010
Carlyn Berghoff celebrating the repeal of prohibition at the Berghoff Bar, Home of Chicago's #1…
Mar 25, 2010
Carlyn Berghoff shares some sweet, gluten-free treats on WGN on March 25th, 2010.
Feb 3, 2012
An original favorite on the Berghoff menu, continues to be made (with not as much cream) and ordered year round.
Jan 27, 2012
An udpated gluten and dairy-free twist on an old family favorite...
Jan 13, 2012
An original Berghoff favorite that's the perfect winter dish to help warm you and your home!
Jan 2, 2012
This updated familly recipe is now gluten-free and the perfect addition to any holiday or cold winter night dinner.
Dec 19, 2011
A party pleaser that can be prepared in advace...
Dec 14, 2011
This homemade flavored vodka is the perfect gift for those that love a good holiday cockatail.
Dec 9, 2011
The perfect and delicious gift for that person who finds themselves serving brunch during the holidays.
Nov 30, 2011
The perfect fall drink to warm your taste buds!
Nov 30, 2011
This original recipe is still a famiy and customer favorite today, and perfect for the holiday entertaining season!
Nov 29, 2011
A twist on the traditional chicken noodle soup, this turkey noodle soup is gluten-free and the perfect way to reuse that leftover Thanksgiving turkey!
Nov 4, 2011
A gluten-free, Berghoff family favorite dessert.
Oct 27, 2011
The perfect protein packed pleaser for appetizers, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Oct 24, 2011
Learn the secret behind the number one all-time most popular Berghoff dessert, and don't miss its premier on Food Network Friday, September 2nd 9:30pm," on Duff Goldman's new show "Sugar High".
Oct 18, 2011
Also known as Black Forest Cake and found in The Berghoff Family Cookbook...
Oct 7, 2011
A healthy, gluten-free, protein packed side to serve with any fish or meat dish, as well as a great addition to lunchboxes!
Sep 23, 2011
The reinvented classic frittata dish, reusing those leftover bratwursts.
Aug 25, 2011
The timeless German sausage, Bratwursts are best served hot on buns with our German Potato Salad, Sauerkraut, and Somthered Onions. You and your guests will think they're at the Berghoff's Oktoberfest!
Aug 19, 2011
A simple Oktoberfest favorite!
Aug 10, 2011
Go ahead; give your kids (or grill party guests) a thrill, with this fun and delicious grilled dessert.
Aug 6, 2011
A great appetizer, main dish, or option at a kabob bar, at any grill party!
Jul 28, 2011
A less expensive, more flavorful twist on the traditional pesto.
Jul 26, 2011
An attractive and artistic, crowd pleasing h'ordeurves
Jul 4, 2011
The perfect make-ahead buffet dish
Jun 10, 2011
Potaotes, onions, and parsley-such a simple recipe, but once again it shows how some basic and fresh ingredients can be reused, recycled, and reinvented.
Jun 3, 2011
Popular on buffets or as a side dish salad, this is one of my favorite picnic salads.
Jun 2, 2011
A refreshing Berghoff favorite that is sure to be a hit at any backyard barbaque or poolside picnic...
May 19, 2011
One of my favorite gluten-free dishes, as featured in The Berghoff Family Cookbook...
May 16, 2011
A tribute drink to The Chicago World's Fair...
May 16, 2011
For pie and cheese lovers alike!
May 7, 2011
This kid friendly, easy to follow recipe is the perfect way for kids to say "Happy Mother's Day".
Apr 29, 2011
No Berghoff Beer is complete without an order of Berghoff Nachos
Apr 29, 2011
For pizza and veggie lovers alike...
Apr 20, 2011
As found in The Berghoff Family Cookbook
Apr 20, 2011
These popular hors d'oeuvre are simple, unique and have so muh versatility in how they can be served, that they are the perfect choice for any theme.
Apr 8, 2011
Brought to the Berghoff Bar by the original Herman Berghoff, becase what goes better with a Berghoff Beer, then a Fresh Baked Pretzel?
Mar 30, 2011
From the Berghoff Family Cookbook and what helped make us famous...
Mar 24, 2011
As found in The Berghoff Family Cookbook...
Mar 23, 2011
As found in The Berghoff Family Cookbook
Mar 22, 2011
This German classic is still on Berghoff's menu today...
Mar 17, 2011
For a lighter, gluten-free, and in my opinion more flavorful alternative to the German staple, Potato Pancakes...
Mar 11, 2011
A fresh spring drink and a March special at the Berghoff Bar...
Mar 11, 2011
A light and refreshing appetizer that is a delicious and simple addition to any gathering.
Feb 22, 2011
A classic Berghoff recipe featuring Blue Moon
Feb 18, 2011
A gluten-free treat to bake, take, and share
Feb 18, 2011
Family-inspired, "one pan wonder" ribs
Jan 2, 2012
Hi Bill,
So glad you tunned into the Windy City Live episode and it's always great to hear from…
Jan 2, 2012
Hello Greg!
Thanks so much for the kind email and your Christmas card. What an honor it is to…
Dec 23, 2011
Hi Joe,
I'm so glad to hear you liked the segment and it's always great to hear from fellow family…
Dec 19, 2011
Tom,
What a wonderful story of Berghoff Tradition! Your resourcefulness and legacy is…
Nov 30, 2011
Hi Greg,
I think you are referring to our Beef Rouladen, which has not been on the menu for a few…
Nov 30, 2011
Hi Nancy,
I'm so glad you were able to fit Berghoff into your visit and enjoyed the Pumpkin Pie…
Nov 30, 2011
Karen,
I have added the recipe for Pesto Cheesecake to our website, under Carlyn's Corner/Recipes.…
Nov 17, 2011
Hi Julie,
We could definitely sell spaetzel uncooked, however we don't ship any type of food. My…
Oct 24, 2011
Hi Robert,
Unfortunately we do not ship our apple strudel. It's just too hard to guarantee it…
Oct 14, 2011
Hi Bruce,
The Berghoff Bourbon from past years is no longer available, however we do have two…
Sep 26, 2011
Edward,
You are in luck, we just began our fall menu last week and the Hunter's Game Sausage Plate…
Aug 29, 2011
Hi Mary,
I'm so glad to hear of your love for our flourless chocolate cake. Our dessert menu is…
Jul 28, 2011
Hi Sharon,
I'm so glad you are going to order a cookbook, however neither of them have the recipe…
Jul 6, 2011
Hi Carol,
Berghoff Restaurant is traditional German-American food, meaning you will find a wide…
Jun 29, 2011
Ian,
We do indeed still have all these things on the menu. We are always serving Berghoff Root…
May 31, 2011
Hello Gloria,
I am the one that should be saying thank you! We are so blessed to have Juan with…
Apr 27, 2011
Hi Connie,
So glad you enjoyed the German Chocolate Cake...it is one of my favorites! I just put…
Apr 27, 2011
Trisha,
What a touching story and memory, thanks for sharing it with me! I am glad to know that…
Apr 20, 2011
Hi Pat,
What a great memory! Berghoff does make our own rye bread, called Berghoff Home Rye. It…
Mar 28, 2011
Shannon,
It is great to hear from other gluten-free mothers and families. Our menus have a number…
Mar 28, 2011
Lisa,
I always love hearing from other Mothers of gluten-free families. The Berghoff has a…
Mar 28, 2011
Lynette,
Thanks so much for your kind words about the Berghoff and our menu. While we no longer…
Mar 22, 2011
Danielle,
I always love hearing from other people with Celiac Disease, that have gone through the…
Mar 22, 2011
Hi Fred,
I'm so glad the Sauerbraten Sandwiches left such an impression on you, it is truly a…
Mar 22, 2011
Carlyn,
How fun that we share the same name! It is so rare to find someone else that has this…
Mar 22, 2011
Glen,
You are correct, Berghoff is open indeed and busier then ever! There was a brief time in…
Mar 21, 2011
Hi Jill,
The easiest way to thicken any casserole is to add potatoes. When cooking with corned…
Mar 21, 2011
Hi Joy,
I'm so glad the Bailey's Cheesecake caught your eye. It's one of my favorite St.…
Jan 4, 2011
William,
I'm so glad to hear of your love of Chicago and the Berghoff. We have a wide range of…
Feb 22, 2011
Hi Wayne,
The men's stand up bar is still open...but this time with stools and women! Next time…
Feb 22, 2011
So glad you enjoyed our Old World Apple Cake. It was such a popular holiday treat, we'll be sure to…
Mar 28, 2011
I guess this is a relatively new tradition, but ever since I saw you on NBC doing the shortbread…
Feb 22, 2011
For the past 15 years my mom and I have been coming down to Berghoff's for a Christmas luncheon.…