Celebrations for my recent triumph over a “food coma” came to a screeching halt, because my doctor says that people who live in Lincoln Park are not only at a higher risk for over indulging, but living anywhere in Chicago exposes people to the highest level of cuisine debauchery. As much as I hate to admit it, doc is right.
Last month, I had the pleasure of attending the Green City Market Chef’s BBQ Benefit with roughly 100 of Chicago’s top chefs whipping up their best BBQ and an assortment of signature recipes. The long lines were telling for popular hot spots such as Naha, NoMI, Girl and the Goat, GT Fish and Oyster, but I was more impressed by the selection of spirits from Lynfred and Prairie State Wineries.
Under normal circumstances, I normally wouldn’t attend chef inspired events; it’s just about as unlikely as Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony reconciling. Aside from the obvious, I did sample some of the best fare that I’ve consumed in a long time. My absolute favorite? A bratwurst with sauerkraut and beer mustard served on a pretzel bun, courtesy of Four Seasons. Each bite was pure heaven; I still dream of being stranded on a deserted island, swimming in a sea of bratwurst with all of the trimmings. Okay, you get the point.
Tell me about your “food coma” experiences this summer, and make sure to check out the Green City Farmers’ Market from now until October.