What's Cooking

This Week in Eats

by Lauren Fleming

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20th Annual Real Men Cook
Sun., June 21, 3-6 p.m., $20-$25

Real Men Cook, a 20-year-old national movement to honor fathers who support their communities, is taking it to First District Plaza to provide a huge tasting event for Father’s Day. Moms, children and whoever else feels hungry will have the chance to nosh on daddy-cooked dishes like fried turkey, Mexican salmon, carrot cake, bread pudding and more. The organization has already raised more than $1 million for its various charitable efforts, meaning those who attend this year will help the org hit the $2 million mark. First District Plaza, 3801 Market St., 215-924-6263, realmencook.com.

Saison Beer Brunch at Johnny Brenda’s
Sat., June 20, 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., $8-$12.50 (food), $4-$7 (beer)

Shopping for Father’s Day is one of the most grievous tasks we kids are forced to undertake, since there really are only so many crappy ties and coffee mugs in the world. So this year, why not treat pops to something his belly will enjoy? Celebrate Dad’s Day 24 hours early (he won’t mind) by checking out Johnny Brenda’s Saison Beer Brunch. The meal will showcase 10 different beers in the saison, farmhouse ale and bière de garde styles — expect brews like Yards Saison, PBC Rowhouse Red, Sly Fox Saison VOS, Flying Fish Farmhouse Summer Ale and more. The menu will be French-inspired and a la carte and feature country cuisine like pâté, charcuterie and assorted cheeses on top of JB’s regular brunch fare. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 215-739-9684, johnnybrendas.com.

Sixth Annual Asian Festival
Sat., June 20, noon-6 p.m., free

The PECO Multicultural Series is presenting its sixth annual Asian Festival at Penn’s Landing, highlighting the heritage of countries like Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Hong Kong. Aside from cultural dance and martial arts performances, there will be demos on chopstick usage, rice cooking and proper Asian table etiquette. Event-goers can use their newfound expertise to sample cuisine provided by the array of food vendors. Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Chestnut Street and Columbus Boulevard, 215-475-1805, asianfest.org.

Crudo Wine Dinner at Positano Coast
Wed., June 24, 6:30 p.m., $45-$65

Sushi is to Japan as crudo is to Italy, and Positano Coast is hoping to get the latter raw specialty the recognition it deserves. This coming Wednesday, the restaurant will offer a special $45 tasting menu that will showcase executive chef Pippo Lamberti’s take on traditional Italian crudo. Enjoy dishes spotlighting black bass, Scottish salmon, wild striped bass, scallop, tuna and other fishy friends. The $45 price tag covers the cost of the meal as well as any soft drinks, water or coffee; wine pairing will be available for an additional $20. Positano Coast, 212 Walnut St., 215-238-0499, lambertis.com.