The Week In Eats

Get Out!

by Dena Merlino

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World Café Live's got a different song and dance going on this week. Executive chef Matthew Babbage is pairing up with Joseph M. Brandolo of Italian importer Winebow to present an experience as well-rounded as a nice Sangiovese. Brandolo will discuss how to recognize the distinguishing aspects of Italian wines in respect to their region of origin, from Piedmont and Sicily to Sardegna and Lazio. Babbage's five-course sitdown dinner will serve as a robust complement to the vino's flavors. World Café Live, 3025 Walnut St., 215-222-1400, worldcafelive.com.

The NEXUS/Foundation for Today's Art, as part of its ongoing "YUMMY" exhibition, is hosting a competition celebrating the Midwestern style of comfort cooking called "hotdish" (or, as we Philadelphians would say, "casserole"). According to party hostess Megan McCready, a hotdish should include a starch, a protein, a vegetable, a "saucy binder" and a crunchy topper. (Craving hot chicken salad covered in potato chips? Today's your day.) An incognito judge will circulate around the Kensington gallery to divvy out bragging rights in various categories. Plates, dinnerware, beverages and a microwave will be provided; bring nonperishables to support the center's food drive. NEXUS/Foundation for Today's Art, 1400 N. American St., Suite 102, 215-684-1946, nexusphiladelphia.org.

So the Eagles didn't make it to the Super Bowl. Again. But at this class, Williams-Sonoma resident chef Margaret Schaum's menu — which includes chipotle guacamole, fresh tomato and chili salsa and chicken enchiladas — looks to add a little spice to even the most disgruntled fan's night. The class will include demos and samples of featured dishes, as well as printed recipes to take home for game time. Williams-Sonoma at the Bellevue, 200 S. Broad St., 215-545-7392, williams-sonoma.com.

Kids ages 9 to 12 are invited to get their hands dirty at this class, where they'll learn basic culinary skills in addition to nutrition and sanitation. Even the pickiest child will delight in eating chicken satay, Far East pizza bites and mini bagel burgers that they prepared themselves. Young chefs should come prepared to cook, wearing sneakers, loose clothing and aprons. Reservations are recommended. Kitchen Kapers, Eastgate Square, 1341 Nixon Drive, Moorestown, N.J., 856-778-7705, kitchenkapers.com.