Bill Kurtis Talks Tallgrass at Amano Boucherie

Bill Kurtis stood in front of the meat counter at Amano Boucherie in Elmhurst Saturday afternoon. He snuck in rather quietly; many standing near him in the crowded butcher shop didn't immediately notice him.

He checked out the Tallgrass beef behind the glass, and then began to explain how its marbling and color can only be achieved when the cattle is grass-fed.

It was then that customers began to take notice.

Kurtis, who is best known as a former Chicago news anchor and the host of A&E Network's crime shows, including "American Justice," "Investigative Reports" and "Cold Case Files," has been in the meat business for about five years now. He founded the Tallgrass Beef Company on his Kansas ranch after researching the health and environmental benefits of grass-fed beef.

With his velvety voice, Kurtis chatted up the afternoon with customers and local dignitaries, and Elmhurst Patch's own health and fitness contributor, Tina Tuszynski. While the butcher shop has been open since late last year, Saturday was its official grand opening.

Tuszynski will have the full interview with Kurtis in her column on Friday.