1 Dinner with Eric Ripert (Osteria Nico) Three courses with drinks from Chef Erling Wu Bower; Chandra Ram of Plate magazine moderates the discussion with Le Bernardin’s Eric Ripert about his new book, “32 Yolks: From My Mother’s Table to Working the Line.” ($165) June 1
2 Flavors of Mexico (Little Village) Tacos, tortas, gorditas, the whole enchilada of Mexican food in Chicago, along with music and cooking demos. It’s a carnival, and yes, there will be rides. June 3-5
3 Ravinia Dine and Ride (Restaurant Michael) Have a three-course French-inspired dinner with pairings, then take a luxury sedan–outfitted with Champagne and macarons–to Ravinia opening night (buy tickets separately). Ride back to restaurant après concert. ($125) June 6-September 10
4 Winemaker Dinner (Geja’s Cafe) Argyle, called by Wine Spectator Oregon’s “premier winery,” provides pairings for a four-course dinner; a winery representative tells you what you’re drinking. ($60) June 6
5 Ribfest (Lincoln/Damen/Irving Park) Hot bands, hot ribs, hot sauce, hot, hot, hot. Buy tickets, eat and drink for three days. June 10-12
Dining and Drinking Editor for Newcity, David also writes a weekly food column for Wednesday Journal in Oak Park and is a frequent contributor of food/drink and travel pieces to the Chicago Tribune, Plate Magazine and other publications. David has also contributed chapters to several books, including Street Food Around the World, Street Food, and The Chicago Food Encyclopedia. Contact: dhammond@newcity.com
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