"Chicago already is recognized as one of the world's greatest cities for food and wine," said Mayor Richard M. Daley. "That's why we are excited to feature acclaimed chefs from several of Chicago's Sister Cities at the first-ever Chicago Gourmet festival."
Other Sister Cities events will range from a tour of the Green City Market, where chefs will purchase their locally grown and locally produced ingredients, to impressive Chicago Gourmet demonstrations throughout the weekend and an anticipated "Sister Cities Dine Around" on Thursday, Sept. 25. The Opening Night Reception on Friday, Sept. 26, at the Harris Rooftop at Millennium Park will feature signature dishes from Sister Cities International chefs and wines from Terlato Wines International.
Held at each host chef restaurant, the "Sister Cities Dine Around" will highlight internationally inspired menus prepared collaboratively by foreign and host chefs at each of the participating chefs' restaurants and feature gourmet samplings from different cultures. Tickets start at $100 per person, with proceeds benefiting the ongoing educational and cultural programming of Chicago Sister Cities International. Tickets are available at www.sistercitiesgourmet.com or by calling 312.744.8074.
Chicago Gourmet Festival
Organizers of Chicago Gourmet call it is America's only urban gourmet food and wine showcase with tastings, demonstrations and hands-on workshops open to the public. The debut event presents 50 of the top U.S. and international culinary talent paired with master sommeliers and 200 wineries. A distinctive new food and wine show, the event celebrates the expanding richness of Chicago's talent and serves up an exquisite gateway to the world only Chicago can provide.
Event Highlights
Opening Night Gala Reception*
Friday, September 26, 6:30 -- 10:30 p.m.
$250/person
Hosted by Mayor Richard M. Daley and the Chicago Gourmet Host Committee at the Harris Theater. All proceeds benefit Green City Market.
*Tickets are purchased separately from the Grand Tasting Main Event to Chicago Gourmet.
"Grand Tastings" Main Event
Saturday, September 27, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 28, 11:15 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
$150 per day or $250 weekend package
Fine wines and fine food provide a palette of extraordinary tastes. From the Viking Culinary Stage on the Pritzker Pavilion to the Best in Latin Flavors tasting area to the Food and Wine Tasting Tents, this range of exquisite dining has never before been offered in one place at one time in Chicago.
The Grand Cru*
Saturday, September 27, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 28, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
$175/person
These exclusive wine tastings and presentations with the nation's top Master Sommeliers will feature 50 of the finest wines, many with limited availability.
*Tickets are purchased separately from the Grand Tasting Main Event to Chicago Gourmet.
Seminar Series*
Saturday, September 27, 11:00 – 3:45 p.m.
Sunday, September 28, 11:00 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
$30 -$90/person
Note: see detailed seminar schedule for specific seminar times and locations
Participate in up-close-and-personal demonstrations and presentations by favorite chefs and Master Sommeliers – a rare opportunity to bring home world-class culinary expertise.
*Tickets are purchased separately from the Grand Tasting Main Event to Chicago Gourmet.
Whole Foods Market Family Village*
Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
$30/adult; FREE/under 12
Catering to the littlest gourmet, this event offers a terrific, affordable program for the whole family to enjoy.
*Tickets are purchased separately from the Grand Tasting Main Event to Chicago Gourmet.
