Rooftop Gardening at Markethouse; Big Star Beer Debut; Ramps at Vie

STREETERVILLE—Talk about going local. Markethouse chef Scott Walton is about to start planting seeds in his rooftop garden, which will result in about 20 various herbs and peppers, lettuces, root vegetables and various heirloom tomatoes. Look for these ingredients to appear on the menu from spring through fall. [EaterWire]

WICKER PARK—On April 3, celebrate the release of Highway 78, a collaborative beer produced by Stone, Green Flash and Port brewing companies, at a party at Big Star starting at 8 p.m. The bar will be the first place in Chicago to debut the Scotch ale. [EaterWire]

WESTERN SPRINGS—Chef Paul Virant will host a multi-course menu featuring ramps at Vie. The $80 dinner (with $20 optional wine pairings) will have items like arancini with ramp pesto; rabbit pate with ramp picalilli; pork confit ravioli in ramp broth; and a cheese course featuring ramp marmalade. Call 708-246-2082 to reserve.

Big Star [Photo: StarChefs]