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Chicago not only wrestled away the James Beard Awards Ceremony from New York this year, but it also wrangled the NFL Draft away from the Big Apple. And the latter — held from April 30 to May 2 — is also relevant for food enthusiasts, as the NFL's brought in Graham Elliot to curate the food offerings for the draft's fan festival on Grant Park, according to multiple reports from Crain's and the Trib.
During draft weekend the league's transforming part of Grant Park into an outdoor football expo (called Draft Town), and Chi-Chef Kitchen is what they're calling the food portion of the festival. Admission's free to Draft Town, allowing patrons to buy food from the vendors Elliot selected at Chi-Chef Kitchen.
Expect to find food from vendors including Billy Goat Tavern & Grill, Black Dog Gelato, Dia De Los Tamales, County Barbecue, Feast and Wow Bao. There's also VIP areas that will feature food from Tony Mantuano of Spiaggia and Terzo Piano, and Avec executive chef Perry Hendrix. Don't forget the Budweiser-sponsored Draft Tavern (get it?) that will pour Bud beer.
