El Che Bar’s John Manion was among the chef’s at Chicago Gourmet.Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Chicago Gourmet, the annual romp through Millennium Park, took place over the weekend as some of Chicago’s finest chefs assembled for two days of seminars, demos, and — of course — plenty of food and wine. Rain threatened both days, but Saturday drew large crowds. The rain held off for the most part during the festival, however fest-goers contended with some mud.
Events included a panel on Chicago’s Indian food. Jared Rouben of Moody Tongue Brewing convinced a crowd that beer makes the ideal beverage to complement cookies. The event had the same format as previous years. Chefs have a chance to interact with their customers through kitchen demonstrations. They can also banter while handing out food.
This is Chicago Gourmet’s 12th year. It was created by the Illinois Restaurant Association. Take a look through Saturday’s events below and check out a few chefs having fun. Chicago Gourmet returns next year on September 26, 2020.
Undaunted by gray skies, hungry locals venture out in droves for Chicago Gourmet.Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
Attendees work it out in the Bon Appetit tent.Brands came up with interesting ways to attract attention, as at every Chicago Gourmet.Every single cup must be perfectly placed.The rum flows steadily.The wine always flows free.Representatives of the consulate general of Japan made an appearance. No wine shortages here.Smoked kampachi (amberjack) nigiri under the Japanese consulate’s tent.The fest hosted panel an Indian food panel with Sujan Sarkar (Rooh), Rohini Dey (Vermillion), Yoshi Yamada, Zeeshan Shah (Superkhana International), Colleen Sen, and Alpana Singh (“Check, Please”).An audience watches chefs Bill Kim and Carrie Nahabedian demonstrate their skills.Sun Wah’s Laura Cheng, host Carla Lalli Music, and HaiSous’s Thai Dang share a laugh.Belly Shack’s Bill Kim was part of the festivities. Barrio chef Katsuji Tanabe talks about opening more restaurants under the Grand Cru tent.Boka star pastry chef Meg Galus served up some macaroons.Sepia/Proxi chef Andrew Zimmerman holds court with his team.Glenlivet was among the vendors.Etta/Maple & Ash chef Danny Grant hydrates himself.S.K.Y.’s Stephen Gillanders served up food.Purple Pig’s Jimmy Bannos Jr. was on hand.Osteria Langhe’s Cameron Grant enjoyed himself.Mi Tocaya Antojeria’s Diana Dávila and her crew showed up with “no human is illegal” stickers.The party starts in the Glenlivit’s purple trailer.The crew from Moody Tongue Brewing practice in preparation for their new opening.Local musicians Dave Herrero and Anne Harris perform.