There’s good news for Chicago foodies: “Check, Please!” is back.

Host, restaurateur and master sommelier Alpana Singh dishes on the new season of the Emmy award-winning show, which debuts Friday on WTTW.

Each episode features a panel of three “citizen” reviewers who talk about their favorite local restaurants. New this season: a trip to a coffee house for the very first time. “It’s a coffee house with a hidden-gem component,” Singh said. “The food here is sort of this Hungarian twist, and it’s food that you – particularly the presentation – may find in a more elevated atmosphere. But that’s the ‘Check, Please!’ surprise.”  

Singh was the show’s host for 10 years before taking a break to start her own businesses, which have included The Boarding House, Seven Lions and Terra & Vine.

Singh says that being on the “other side” of the menu has made her a better host.

“Anytime you can accrue that kind of knowledge just makes you better at your job,” she said.

Singh also makes regular appearances on Instagram, where she likes to post photos of her baking efforts.

“I’m a baking exhibitionist,” she said. “I like cooking because for me it’s a form of meditation. It’s how I relax.”

“Check, Please!” airs Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 4:30 p.m. on WTTW. You can find all the restaurants, recipes and more at the show’s website: checkplease.wttw.com.

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