Grub hub F
Lake shore businesses bring good food, beer and wine straight to you
Andrew Zimmerman
8 | Thursday, August 28, 2014 | Fall Fun Guide
BY WENDY ALTSCHULER For Sun-Times Media
all is shaping up to be an action-packed and stirring season, especially with the plethora of beer and wine festivals on the docket. Ravinia in Highland Park has been known for its music and lawn seating. On Sept.20,the venue will be known for something else:the marriage of music and food.Food Network in Concert combines famed stars,from best-selling epicurean Food Network Magazine,with rock-and-roll artists, including music from Phillip Phillips, American Idol Season 11 winner,and Grammy Award-winning John Mayer. “There will be multiple music stages,lively cooking demos,wine and food tastings,talent meet-andgreet opportunities and much more,” said Peggy Mansfield,associate publisher of integrated marketing at Food Network Magazine. Exclusive culinary events will be hosted by notorious Food Network stars — Sunny Anderson,Anne Burrell,Jose Garces,Alex Guarnaschelli,Jeff Mauro,Marc Murphy and Geoffrey Zakarian,as well as 50 of the country’s most esteemed and lauded chefs. “Chefs have become rock stars in their own right through presence in our magazine and via our network,” Mansfield said.“We thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to bring both culinary talent and incredible musicians together for Food Network in Concert at Ravinia,which will be one unforgettable day of music,food, wine and other one-of-a-kind experiences.Ticket prices for admission to Food Network in Concert have something for everyone,whether you want the traditional Ravinia lawn experience or exclusive four-course dinners from a celebrity chef.” MainStreet Libertyville will host MainStreet Oktoberfest.On Sept.20, visitors will rock out to local bands, eat delicious food and sample beer under the big top on Church Street. Originally introduced in 1993 as a spring street dance,this familyfriendly fundraiser has evolved into a lively affair complete with an Oompah band,German beer and food. “In honor of MainStreet’s 25th anniversary,during this year’s event, tickets will be sold for a downtown Libertyville raffle basket containing certificates and items from participating merchants worth over $2000,” said Pam Hume,executive director of
MainStreet Libertyville. MainStreet board chairman,Jeff Lovinger,said:“Starting in September,it’s amazing how many people around town talk about Oktoberfest as if it’s a reunion of sorts.It’s the sort of community spirit and support of our organization that typifies Libertyville residents.” On Nov.1,pop over to Mundelein to celebrate DiCarlo’s FallWine,Food and Craft Beer Festival. “We will once again showcase over 250 fine wines and dozens upon dozens of craft beers,”said Gints Brencis,CSW director of fine wines, DiCarlo FineWines & Spirits.“The festival will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Doubletree Hotel,and it promises to be another memorable sensory and gustatory experience.” A block of rooms is reserved at the Doubletree Hotel.Mention the event when making your reservation to get a special room rate. “This festival is attended by hundreds of wine and beer enthusiasts alike,”Brencis said.“The selection of wines is very diverse with numerous countries represented.All price points are represented,and attendees are rewarded with the lowest prices of the year.The artisanal gourmet samples provided by local restaurants are equally diverse and complement the wines wonderfully.” TheWine and Craft Beer Tasting event atWaukeganYacht Club, hosted by the GreaterWaukegan Development Coalition,will include samples from more than 60 distilled spirits and craft beers.Artisan cheeses,smoked salmon,mini gourmet sandwiches,spring rolls,crab cakes,antipasto tray,fruit,grilled vegetables and other tasty treats will keep your belly full. Antioch will host the Beer and BBQWalk.Participants can enjoy the downtown streets while eating smoky BBQ and drinking craft beers. Finally,Fox Lake will host Fox Lake Oktoberfest Beer andWineWalk, an adult-only festival that includes live entertainment,food and beer,all under a tent at the park on Oct.11. “It is a great day to come out with friends and family and enjoy some great wine and beer tastings,”said Linnea Pioro,executive director of the Fox Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry.“Our business members serve hors d’oeuvres and offer giveaways,and each participant receives a complimentary wine glass and bottle of wine or beer.” Eat,drink and be merry.