Five Worth Finding: GayHomophobe.com, Zobha activewear and others

—Zobha apparel: After seeing that it sells “premium activewear for men including shirts, pullovers and pants,” I thought I’d try out an item from Zobha. The shirt I got is stylish and efficient (in this case, at wicking moisture), and I feel comfortable wearing it at the gym or even a more casual restaurant. (Of course, I would clean it in between those two stops.) I was skeptical at first—but wearing is believing. (There are also items for women, including tanks and even maternity wear.) Visit www.Zobha.com.

—312 Restaurant: Yes, this Italian restaurant in the Loop is one where the well-heeled can discuss business and political deals over lunch—but there’s room for the rest of us, too. Manager Charmaine Bowman makes sure that everyone feels welcome, and the food is top-notch, naturally; I plan to go back for the orechiette tarufate. See www.312Chicago.com.

—GayHomophobe.com: This amusing site (the subject of a forthcoming feature) lists anti-gay public figures who have come out of the closet or who have been (reportedly) outed. The “latest winner,” according to the website, is Kathryn Lehman, a Republican lesbian who helped write the Defense of Marriage Act—and is now working to repeal it. Past “winners” include Sheriff Paul Babeu, former Sen. Robert Arango and Rev. Eddie Long.

—The duck confit hash at Allium: Allium is located in the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago—and this dish belongs in such an exclusive venue (although it’s only $18). Topped with duck egg and tangerine hollandaise, this hash makes for one heavenly meal.

—The Skin I Live In: When Windy City Times critic Richard Knight Jr. saw this Pedro Almodovar movie starring Antonio Banderas, his review included the statement “questions about the boundaries of sexuality, gender and consuming love are at the heart of The Skin I Live In (literally, this time) and play just underneath while, on the surface, Almodovar never fails to entertain.” Having seen this film (now on DVD), I have to agree—on every count.

—Andrew Davis

(Andrew@WindyCityTimes.com)