1 Sessions du Monde (Autre Monde, Berwyn) Wine tastings, led by awesome wine dude John Aranza, focusing on sips from places like California and Croatia, paired with outstanding Mediterranean chow and accompanied by themed musical performances. ($10/4 pour flights) Through the end of September
2 Drink Local 2016 (Chicago Marriott, Medical District/UIC) It’s all about American booze—spirits, beer and wine—and the Chicago bars and restaurants that serve them. September 17 3 Mezcal: Mexico in a Bottle (Chop Shop, 2033 West North) Mezcal luminaries (like Jay Schroederof Mezcaleria las Flores) talk us through the nuances of the beverage—represented by multiple bottles and brands—while you drink the drink and snack on food provided by Birrieria Zaragoza, Ixcateco Grill and other wonderful Chicago restaurants. ($45 in advance/$60 at the door). September 18
4 Walking Dead Trivia (Benchmark, 1510 North Wells) A chance to use your otherwise worthless knowledge about zombies to impress your date. Three-buck drafts, full menu, discount for bringing in a still warm human corpse (just kidding). September 20
5 Chicago Gourmet (Millennium Park) The premier food event of the season, and probably the year, showcases the talents of dozens of Chicago’s finest chefs, and they’re all there, ready to chat and serve acre after acre of mind-blowing chow. ($185 for Sunday; Saturday sold out) September 23-24
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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