Chicago, the third most populous city in the United States, is one of the most visited cities and an important international hub. The city is a foodie’s destination that boasts of rich cuisines and a selection of acclaimed dishes. It is also known for the authentic American cuisines that have an influence of German, English, Irish, Greek and Italian flavors. To make the experience of eating out unforgettable for travellers and locals alike, the city hosts a gourmet event called Chicago Gourmet which provides a premier culinary experience to everyone. It was started by the Illinois Restaurant Association to honor Chicago’s culinary achievements and the creative vision of the chefs, Master Sommeliers, and wine makers. Chicago Gourmet showcases the city as an international culinary destination through its passionate chefs and gourmet experts.
Here is What to Expect
This annual food festival organises various events and contests throughout the month of September, showcasing some of the best food found in the city. One such contest is ‘The Battle of Masters’, in which Master Sommeliers go head-to-head with a wine and song pairing to compliment the featured chef’s dish. Here the attendees are critics and choose the winner. Then there is Hamburger Hop, which is a tough competition between Chicago’s top chefs who prepare their piquant burgers and are judged by celebrities and the crowd together. It is a city wide as well as an in-person event.
There Is also an after-party of Hamburger Hop called Late Night Gourmet, which is presented by Chicago Magazine. It is a fun and festive event that is filled with music from Chicago’s famous DJs, late night bites and celebration with Chicago Gourmet chefs, sommeliers and other tastemakers. Additionally, Grand Cru presented by UnitedHealthcare exhibits some of the finest wines curated by prominent wine experts. Artisanal craft wines and delectable cuisines prepared by Chicago’s award-winning chefs are at the epicentre of this event. In addition, there is another popular event called the Gourmet Series that has Bar Siena Fitness Series, Celebrating Phil Vettel: A Four-Star Feast, Passport To Pizza, and Wagyu And Sake Dinner.
Dates, Location and Tickets
Chicago Gourmet is a month-long fine-dining festival that celebrates great food and wine. The five-star culinary event showcases more than 150 of the finest restaurants in the city. Organised in Millennium Park, Loop, it is attended by around 20,000-50,000 visitors and more than 500 exhibitors. The various events of this festival are organised on different dates and times and have different ticket costs. In 2022, the event will be held between September 23-25 at Millennium Park. The line up of events have been published on the official website. The tickets will go on sale in July and can be purchased online using major credit cards.
How to Contact
Millennium Park is located at 201 E. Randolph St. Chicago IL 60601. For queries, you can reach the Illinois Restaurant Association on phone at 312-380-4137 or email – chicagogourmet@illinoisrestaurants.org.
The public park is easily accessible by bus, train or taxi. The Chicago Transit Authority buses and trains, and Metra’s commuter rail lines have a stop near the park. If taking the Metra, the Millennium Park Station at Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street is where you need to alight. Parking is available at the Millennium Garages. The three lots open for visitors include Grant Park North Parking Garage, Millennium Lakeside Garage, and Millennium Park Garage.
Chicago Gourmet undoubtedly is where the most happening food scene is in the city. At this fest you can enjoy in-person dinners with celebrated local chefs. Find your favorite burgers by hopping around town during the Hamburger Hop event or enjoy one-of-a-kind dining experiences during the Go Gourmet dinner series. Also, have fun at a truly unforgettable evening while savoring award-winning cuisines and world’s finest wines at the Grand Cru event. So, what are you waiting for? Prepare yourself for an unparalleled epicurean food experience during the Chicago Gourmet.
