A Taste for the Arts to Feature Bayless and Other Top Chefs

The showroom kitchens at Merchandise Mart's LUXEHOME housewares boutiques will be put to good use soon. On March 22, the Chicago Academy for the Arts takes over for a special celebrity chef fundraiser led by alumni parents Deann and Rick Bayless (Frontera, Topolobampo, XOCO). The event will unite fellow star chefs Graham Elliot Bowles (Graham Elliot, Grahamwich), Suzy Crofton (Crofton on Wells), Craig Harzewski (Naha), Kevin Hickey (Seasons), Giuseppe Tentori (Boka), Paul Virant (Perennial), Jared Wentworth (Longman & Eagle) and Andrew Zimmerman (Sepia).

And by “star” we mean more than just lipservice—the chefs each have one coveted Michelin star, and are the first Chicago-area chefs to earn the honor. While the student art will take center stage, it's safe to say the canvas of modern food on display should be plenty inspiring in its own right. Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on exclusive foodie auction packages and raffle items, including a dinner party from Bayless himself and a night of eating, drinking and sleeping for six at the Palmer House Hilton Penthouse. Tickets start at $250 per person, with proceeds benefitting the Chicago Academy for the Arts. Call 312-421-0202 to reserve your spot.