Things to Do in Chicago this Week (and Weekend): It’s All About Food

James Beard Eats Week

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James Beard Sneak Peek Soirée

When: Wednesday, April 20th

Where: Venue One, 1034 W. Randolph, Chicago, IL 60607

Why: CS magazine has teamed up with Choose Chicago, Illinois Restaurant Association and James Beard Foundation to host the ultimate culinary celebration at Venue One in honor of the James Beard Foundation Awards. Over 500 Chicago foodies and influencers will gather in anticipation of the most exciting culinary event happening in Chicago. The event will kick-off the second annual Eats Week (April 22 – May 2), in which more than 100 restaurants will offer a James Beard-inspired menu or dish for 11 days in honor of the culinary legend, James Beard. Over 25 of Chicago’s top restaurants will participate in this ultimate foodie kick-off event and offer guests tastings of their unique dishes, all inspired by Mr. Beard. Delicious cocktails, brews and wine will complement the evening and guests will enjoy premier entertainment while mingling with their favorite Chicago chefs in the city.

More infoEventbrite

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Chicago Chef Week

When: April 17th – April 22nd

Where: Various locations

Why: Every spring, Chicago Chef Week returns, with more than 100 restaurants offering a three-course prix-fixe menu for lunch or a four-course prix-fixe for dinner. Each year CCW adds trendy newcomers to a long list of fine-dining standbys, drawing bargain-hunting Chicagoans to try out the latest culinary hotspots and revisit old favorites. From Asian or Argentinian to French, Italian, tapas, and sushi, make your reservations for Chicago Chef Week to experience award-winning restaurants in Chicago to gourmet gems in the suburbs.

More info: Chicago Chef Week

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James Beard Eats Week

When: April 22nd -May 2nd

Where: Various locations

Why: Celebrate James Beard and Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene with a week of exclusive restaurant menus and dishes inspired by James Beard’s American Classic recipes. Nearly 100 top Chicago restaurants will honor the man known as the “Dean of American cookery” through their food. Join them during the second annual James Beard Eats Week!

Browse the list of participating restaurants and special menus below and make your reservation during Eats Week to take part.

More infoChoose Chicago

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Randolph Street Market

When: Saturday, April 23rd and Sunday, April 24th

Where: Plumbers Union Hall, 1340 W. Washington Street, Chicago, IL 60607

Why: The Randolph Street Market Festival is home to the world-renowned Chicago Antique Market, Indie Designer Market,Modern Vintage Chicago and the Holiday Market. As seen in Travel & Leisure, the NY Times, Lucky Magazine and featured on TV news shows and web casts, the Randolph Street Market Festival is considered “a mecca of cool”, “the best hot spot for antiquing”, “the best Chicago venue for people watching”, and “the Barney’s of Vintage”. Celebrity designer Nate Berkus says, “I love this market…the quality is incredible!” As one of Chicago’s most happening monthly parties, Randolph Street Market has become the summer destination!

This European-style, indoor-outdoor urban antique market in the historic West Loop neighborhood features 200 select purveyors of high quality, amazingly priced “finds”, offering unlimited creative inspiration and hours of fun. Shoppers can find furnishings, vintage clothing, jewelry, collectibles, etc.

More infoRandolph Street Market

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