What's Cooking

Thet Week in Eats

by Claire Bullen

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Published: Aug 12, 2008

Food Network (CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER VERSION)

Jose Garces, chef/owner of Amada, Tinto and the exuberant new Distrito, is taking on wussy Bobby Flay in an hourlong Iron Chef death match. As per usual, the chefs will rush to incorporate a secret ingredient into five dishes — what's not usual, however, is that each dish must also have a frozen element as part of what they're calling the "Brain Freeze Battle." Do Philly a favor, Jose, and whoop Flay good — it'll be almost as satisfying as Distrito's pork belly mole verde. The Food Network, check cable provider for channel information.

It's hard to top a five-course seasonal menu — especially when it's paired up with Belgian-style brews. The first course, a lobster, scallop and striped bass ceviche, will be complemented by Kasteel Triple. Tamarind- and ginger-glazed pork ribs will be paired with Kasteel Rouge, and the dessert course's bing cherry sorbet will be served with an equally light and fruity St. Louis Frambroise. Reservations recommended. Valanni, 1229 Spruce St., 215-790-9494, valanni.com.

Philadelphia Brewing Co.'s Dean Brown and John Rehmn will show off new brews, like a Wheat Wine, with standbys like their Walt Wit, Kenzinger and Newbold IPA. The beers'll be paired with cheeses like Cana de Cabra, a Spanish goat's milk; Colston Bassett Stilton from England; and America's own Rogue River Smokey Blue. Reservations required. Di Bruno Bros., 1730 Chestnut St., 215-665-1659, dibruno.com.

The folks over at Pour House are providing a bus to and from Downingtown's Victory Brewing Co., where guests will be given a tour of the facilities and 6-ounce samples. Then get ready for a lunch of pulled pork, wings, pizza, salad and — most importantly — an open bar stocked with Victory hits. Look out for Golden Monkey, Whirlwind Wit, Victory Lager and Prima Pils. The festivities go till 5, with guests drinking to their Victorious hearts' content. The Pour House Tavern, 4213 Ridge Ave., 215-848-2770, thepourhousetavern.com.

Phils fans: Stop at McFadden's between innings. More than 20 craft brewers, half local and half national, will offer a variety of choices; Philly will be proudly represented by Dogfish Head, Weyerbacher, Yards, Tröegs and others. McFadden's Restaurant and Saloon, Citizens Bank Park's Third Base Gate (11th Street and Pattison Avenue), 215-952-0300, mcfaddensballpark.com.

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