For the last dozen years, Chicago Gourmet has brought luxurious dinners and wine pairings, intimate conversations with local chefs, and the camaraderie of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow foodies from Chicago and beyond.
This year, there won’t be a traditional Grand Tasting event in Millennium Park — but the top-tier food festival is still offering an inventive lineup of specialty dinners, upscale tastings, burger showdowns, and more. Best of all, the fun spans the whole month, instead of just one weekend.
Keep in mind: You’ll need proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to the event in order to attend any Chicago Gourmet events. All guests should wear a mask at indoor events when not eating and drinking. Learn more about COVID-19 policies and guest safety.
Here’s what you need to know about Chicago Gourmet 2021:
The return of the Grand Cru tasting
Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021
In place of the Grand Tasting event, this year’s Gourmet marks the return of the Grand Cru. This exclusive and intimate tasting event takes place on the Harris Theater Rooftop, tucked away in Millennium Park.
Guests will be able to sip the world’s finest wines curated by master sommeliers, served with bites from the city’s top chefs (like Rohini Dey, Thai Dang, Sarah Grueneberg, Gene Kato, and more). This year’s event will also feature an expanded emphasis on craft spirits at the newly added Artisanal Cocktail Lounge.
Guests can choose from two sessions that feature different chef lineups:
Session 1 (2 to 5 p.m.)
- Maya-Camille Broussard, Justice of the Pies
- Thai Dang, HaiSous, Cà Phê Dá
- Rohini Dey, Vermilion
- Joe Flamm, Rose Mary
- Sarah Grueneberg, Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
- Stephanie Izard, Girl & The Goat, Little Goat, Cabra, Sugargoat, Duck Duck Goat
Session 2 (7 to 10 p.m.)
- Mike Clark, Mastro’s Steakhouse
- Gene Kato, Momotaro
- Dylan Patel, avec
- Jonathon Sawyer, Adorn Bar & Restaurant
- Sahil Sethi, ROOH Chicago
- José Sosa, Gibsons Italia
Get your tickets today.
Hamburger Hop is back and bigger than ever
Citywide Hamburger Hop: Sept. 1 – 30, 2021
Hamburger Hop judging event: Friday, Sept. 24, 2021
Many a Chicago eatery prides itself on its burger. But who truly deserves the bragging rights? Take part in the Hamburger Hop (Sept. 1 – 30) to help crown a winner. Order a specialty burger from one (or more) of the dozens of local establishments taking part in the citywide Hamburger Hop. Then, cast your vote on your favorite.
The winner of the People’s Choice award will be crowned at the official Hamburger Hop on Sept. 24 at the Harris Theater Rooftop. Hosted by acclaimed chef Stephanie Izard, the tasting event will let guests sample some of the best burgers in the city, alongside wine, beer, and spirits. Get your tickets today.
The only hard part will be choosing where to start. Among the notable entries? Das Burger from Funkenhausen featuring beer onions and crispy potatoes, Goose Island Brewhouse’s double smash burger, an over-the-top burger from Kuma’s Corner featuring a deep-fried goat cheese medallion, Asian-inspired sliders from Miki’s Park, and so much more.
More unforgettable events with Go Gourmet
Sept. 1 – 19, 2021
One thing the past year has taught us — a good dinner out is something that should be savored. The Go Gourmet Series is taking the pleasure of fine dining to the next level, with a lineup of truly one-of-a-kind meals. Chefs at leading Chicago restaurants have crafted menus that evoke their own personal point of view, from an elevated tasting menu to a family-style feast.
At Hyde Park restaurant Virtue, award-winning chef Erick Williams is hosting a special meal with some of his talented mentors. Or you can indulge in wagyu and sake in a five-course dinner at RPM Steak. Eat tacos with Rick Bayless. Join legendary dining critic Phil Vettel for a multi-course feast at Piccolo Sogno. The list goes on. Get your tickets today.
