Foodies will be excited to learn that a popular Windy City culinary event will return to Millennium Park this fall. Chicago Gourmet, the annual food-themed festival, will run from September 25 through September 28 at the Harris Theater Rooftop.
This year's theme, "Step Up to the Plate," will meld the worlds of sports and food. This includes a series of "Culinary World Series" events throughout Chicagoland this summer, leading to the fall festival. This consists of the baseball-themed Game Day Gourmet that took place on July 25 and featured iconic ballpark foods and drinks like beer, wine, cocktails, and the "Duck Inn Dog Showdown," which will allow chefs to showcase their own, elevated takes on the iconic summer staple: the hot dog.
On September 14, there will also be a Gourmet Tailgate at Utopian Tailgate. On September 20, there will be a chef pickleball tournament at SPF Chicago and a dinner to pay tribute to Jackie Robinson and James Beard Award winners Erick Williams and Damarr Brown at Virtue.
When Chicago Gourmet officially kicks off, the first event is Tacos & Tequila with chefs Rick Bayless and Marco Carbajal on September 25 on the Harris Theater Rooftop. There, you'll be treated to mouthwatering cocktails from top local chefs, premium agave-based spirits and specialty cocktails. Traditional music and dance performances will provide good vibes.
The next event is Hamburger Hop, hosted by chefs Joe Flamm and Sarah Grueneberg on September 26. A mix of Northside and Southside chefs will showcase their best burgers paired with thirst-quenching beers and flavorful cocktails.
The Grand Cru, Chicago Gourmet's most popular event, will take place on September 27 on the Harris Theater Rooftop. Hosted by chefs Stephanie Izard and Karen Akunowicz, it's the shining moment of Chicago Gourmet. The best chefs in Chicago will pair their top dishes with epic wines and spirits. It's so popular that there are two different sessions.
On September 28, the last event is the Rise & Shine Gourmet hosted by chefs Art Smith, Lorena Garcia, and Jernard Wells. This breakfast-themed event featured top chefs serving brunch favorites paired with cocktails.
If you're intrigued by Chicago Gourmet and want to sample its swoon-worthy foods and refreshing drinks, tickets are currently on sale at chicagogourmet.org.