Philadelphia City Paper :: What's Cooking http://archives.citypaper.net/rss.php?cid=84 <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/03/03/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/03/03/whats-cooking Neal Santos

[ the week in eats ]

Han Dynasty at Amis Industry Night
Mon., March 7, 10 p.m., free food with restaurant pay stub
Szechuan maestro Han Chiang of Old City's Han Dynasty (108 Chestnut St.) will be firing up March's Industry Night at Amis, showcasing dishes like tea-smoked duck, dan dan noodles and an intriguing stew composed of pork blood and pork intestines for the crowd of ravenous restaurant workers. The food is free, but pay your way for drinks; brandish a restaurant or bar pay stub for admission. Amis, 412 S. 13th St., 215-732-2647, amisphilly.com.

Fishtown Neighbors Association Chili Cook-Off
Sun., March 6, 1-4 p.m., $10
It's a true-blue Fishtown gathering at Feast Your Eyes catering this weekend, as restaurants and chili enthusiasts get together to compete for best-of prizes. Fishtown spots such as Kraftwork, Johnny Brenda's, Brindle Café and the Lola Bean will duke it out for the Best Restaurant prize, while Fishtown residents/amateur chefs battle in the Best Homemade category. Saint Benjamin Brewing Co. and Philadelphia Brewing Co. are donating beer. Feast Your Eyes Catering, 1750 N. Front St., 215-634-3002, fyecatering.com.

Pizza Class at Osteria
Tue., March 8, 6:30 p.m., $175
Spend some quality time in Marc Vetri and Jeff Michaud's North Broad Street kitchen at Osteria, where the James Beard award-winners will divulge secrets from the pizza-making vault for a truly hands-on cooking class. Students will learn dough recipes and handling techniques while discussing the methodology behind sourcing ingredients and choosing toppings. A Q&A session will be held over dessert. If you can't make this session, there will be another pizza class on March 22 and pasta-making ones on March 15 and 29. Osteria, 640 N. Broad St., 215-763-0920, osteriaphilly.com.

Villa Calcinaia Wine Dinner at Davio's
<![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/02/24/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/02/24/whats-cooking [ the week in eats ]

Tour de France: Gascony Dinner at Bistrot La Minette Thu., Feb. 24, 5:30-10:30 p.m., $35 ($50 with wine pairings) In the Southwestern realm of France lies Gascony, esteemed for bold red wines, Armagnac and cuisine rich in game birds like goose and duck. As a leg of its "Tour de France" series of tastings, Bistrot La Minette is going rustic and rural for this focused four-course dinner featuring duck gizzards and lamb shanks. Bistrot La Minette, 623 South Sixth St., 215-925-8000, bistrotlaminette.com.

Ninth Annual Chili Challenge at Victory Brewing Co. Sun., Feb. 27, noon-3 p.m., free If you find yourself in Downingtown this weekend, drop by Victory for an afternoon of craft beer and chili sampling. Their brewmasters, servers and others will be dishing out their prided chilis for the masses to judge on one of the few chilly weekends left in the year. Who will win the People's Pepper award in 2011? Victory Brewing Co., 420 Acorn Lane, Downingtown, 610-873-0881, victorybeer.com.

Behind the Scenes Tasting at R2L Mon., Feb. 28, 6:30 p.m., $20 Get up close and personal with chef Daniel Stern as he shares his Modern American methodology and technique. Provided will be a private tasting for those who reserve seats through the Gershman Y. R2L, Two Liberty Place, 50 S. 16th St., 37th Floor, 215-564-5337, r2lrestaurant.com.

The Mentor and the Protege Collaboration at Blackfish Mon., Feb. 28, 5:30-10 p.m., $95 Chip Roman, chef/owner of Blackfish, began his culinary focus under the French-focused wing of Le Bec-Fin's Georges Perrier. Roman will be hosting his once-mentor as a guest chef for this special night, where a meeting of these two minds will occur to present a fish-focused five-course meal. Seating is limited and reservations are most definitely necessary. Blackfish, 119 Fayette St., Conshohocken, 610-397-0888, blackfishrestaurant.com.

Art In the Age Spirited Beer Dinner at N. 3rd Mon., Feb. 28, 5 p.m.-midnight, $35 The thinkers at Art in the Age, the brains behind artisan liqueurs ROOT and SNAP, have shaken hands with N. 3rd to deliver a harmonic menu featuring each of their spirits in tandem with craft beer and elevated gastropub fare. The m...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/02/17/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/02/17/whats-cooking

[ this week in eats ]

Royal Sushi & Izakaya Pop-Up at Khyber Pass Pub
Mon., Feb. 21, 5 p.m.-1 a.m., pay as you go
Stephen Simons and Dave Frank, owners of Khyber Pass Pub, Royal Tavern and both Cantinas, are working on opening an izakaya (Japanese pub) in an as-yet-undisclosed Philly location. Though details are still scarce on Royal Sushi & Izakaya, they're previewing chef Todd Dae Kulper's hakata-style ramen, for one night only, at KPP. Twelve bucks will get you a bowl of milky pork-based broth complete with fresh noodles, pork shoulder, pork belly and all the appropriate role players (see royalsushiandizakaya.com for a full rundown). Also expect other Japanese-style specials. Khyber Pass Pub, 56 S. Second St., 215-238-5888, khyberpasspub.com.

Belgian Beer Brunch at City Tap House
Thu., Feb. 17, 11:30 a.m., $25
Join Rob Tod, founder of Allagash Brewing Co., for this beer brunch. Tod will pour Allagash's White, Tripel and Grand Cru, plus a collaboration beer brewed with Jason and Todd Alstrom, founders of Beer Advocate. All this to accompany a selection of "classic brunch flavors." City Tap House, The Radian, 3925 Walnut St., 215-662-0105, citytaphouse.com.

Delicatessen's First Birthday Celebration
Sun., Feb. 20, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., $5 for kids, $20 for adults
Delicatessen turns one year old this weekend, and they're celebrating with a full-on, all-you-can-eat spread of Jewish deli fare (smoked fish, corned beef, pastrami) served on the restaurant's second floor, also known as "Bubby's Upstairs Lounge." The West Philly Orchestra will play klezmer music from noon to 2. Delicatessen, 703 Chestnut St., 215-923-4560, delicatessenphilly.com.

The 10th Annual Philly Cooks!
Wed., Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m., $7...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/01/27/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/01/27/whats-cooking Courtesy of Food Network

[ this week in eats ]

Michael Solomonov vs. Jose Garces on Iron Chef America Airs Sun., Jan. 30, 10 p.m.
Whose cuisine will reign supreme when Michael Solomonov, chef/owner of Zahav, takes on Philly peer/Iron Chef Jose Garces on the Food Network's Iron Chef America ? I'm torn about who to pick in this titanic matchup (wonder what the "secret" ingredient will be?), but it'll definitely be entertaining, and I'm about 45 percent sure that "The Chairman" will ending up screaming the name of an exotic fish in a banshee voice. Stop by Percy Street Barbecue (900 South St.) for an informal viewing party on Sunday night. For more, visit foodnetwork.com/iron-chef-america.

Third Annual Khyber Beer Chili Cook-Off
Sat., Jan. 29, 1-5 p.m., free admission/chili (pay as you go for beer)
On Saturday afternoon, more than 20 contestants will vie for one title at the Khyber Pass Pub: supreme champion of Philly beer chili cookery. (The only rule: Beer must be implemented into each chili recipe in some capacity.) The public is welcome to sample the entries, which will be judged by the trio of sommelier Marnie Old, Khyber chef Mark McKinney and yours truly. Khyber Pass Pub, 56 S. Second St., 215-238-5888, khyberpasspub.com.

Third Annual South Philly Tap Room Beef & Beer
Sun., Jan. 30, 4-8 p.m., $50 (including tax and tip)
Fifty bones gets you all you can eat and drink at this weekend's Beef & Beer at SPTR. The bar will be stocked with firkins of all stripes (Dock Street, Sly Fox, Troegs, Dogfish Head, etc.) to wash down slow-roasted Angus beef strip loin, carne asada tacos and more from chef Scott Schroeder. Tickets are available at the bar or over the phone, and include tax and tip. South Philly Tap Room, 1509 Mifflin St., 215-271-7787, southphiladelphiataproom.com. <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/01/13/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2011/01/13/whats-cooking

[ this week in eats ]

Ommegang Beer Brunch at the Wishing Well Sun., Jan. 16, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., $10-$30

Day drinking alert! Wishing Well chef/co-owner Carmen Cappello is serving up a hearty brunch — each dish paired with a beer from Cooperstown's Ommegang — this Sunday. Check out Cappello's scrapple-topped SHAME sliders paired up with a Belgian pale ale; a =pork trio (braised belly, crispy skin, housemade sausage) served with the brewery's potent Three Philosophers; and more. Get the whole shebang as a four-course tasting for $30 (with 4- to 5-ounce pours), or order dishes a la carte ($10-$26) with the full-on beers. Reservations are accepted, but walk-ins are also welcome. The Wishing Well, 767 S. Ninth St., 215-238-6555, wishingwellphilly.com.

Center City District Restaurant Week Jan. 16-21 and 23-28, $20-$35

The first Restaurant Week(s) of 2011 are upon us. Same drill as years past: Snag three-course, $35 dinners at a bajillion restaurants, plus $20 lunches at a slightly tighter roster of participants. Notable names this year include Barbuzzo, Cooperage, Fork, Garces Trading Co., Lacroix, Le Bec-Fin, M Restaurant, Oyster House, Percy Street Barbecue, Tinto, Tweed, Union Trust and many more. For a full list of participating restaurants, visit centercityphila.org/life/RWRestaurants.php.

Schramsberg Vineyard Sparkling Wine Dinner at Granite Hill Fri., Jan. 14, 6:30 p.m., $65

New Year's Eve is long gone, but there's no reason to shelve the bubbly. Chef Philippe Trosch of the Philadelphia Museum of Art's Granite Hill (a Stephen Starr production) is serving this dinner, based around sparkling wines from Napa's Schramsberg Vineyard, to properly ring in 2011. (The restaurant, typically open only during the day, serves dinner on Fridays to accommodate the Museum's "Art After 5" crowd.) Courses here will include smoked potato ravioli with duck confit paired with Schramsberg's Mirabelle Rose; and roasted Alaskan black cod paired with the winery's Blanc de Blanc. PMA members will receive a 10 percent discou...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/23/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/23/whats-cooking [ this week in eats ]

Pub & Kitchen Boxing Day Celebration
Sun., Dec. 26, 11 a.m., pay as you go

Boxing Day, aka the day after Christmas, isn't as popular in America as it is abroad, but Pub & Kitchen is observing it regardless. It seems an appropriate holiday for chef Jonathan Adams to take on, given his penchant for cooking up U.K.-friendly food. P&K's Boxing Day celebration will start at 11 a.m. and go into the evening— they'll be cooking Creekstone Farms' English prime rib with Yorkshire pudding (those Brits do love their puddings!), as well as two firkins from Yards. Good show! Pub & Kitchen, 1946 Lombard St., 215-545-0350, thepubandkitchen.com.

New Year's Eve at Kanella
Fri., Dec. 31, 5-11 p.m., $65

Kanella chef/owner Konstantinos Pitsillides will be offering a very special Cypriot-style menu for his NYE dinner, including pan-fried pumpkin with crushed pepper, thyme honey and homemade labneh; grilled monkfish with braised octopus, coriander seeds, Sardinian fregula and wild mushrooms; and lavender mousse with preserved figs. Reservations required. Kanella, 1001 Spruce St., 215-422-1773, kanellarestaurant.com.

New Year's Eve Pig Roast at MidAtlantic
Fri., Dec. 31, 6-11 p.m., $65

Daniel Stern is serving up something interesting for NYE at his MidAtlantic — an entire pig roast buffet. Also available will be "buckets" of shrimp and mussels, housemade condiments, seasonal veggies, chocolate moon and oatmeal cream pies, plus much more ($3 canned beers!). Call or visit their website for reservations. MidAtlantic, 3711 Market St., 215-386-3711, midatlanticrestaurant.com.

New Year's Eve at Café Estelle
Fri., Dec. 31, 6 and 9 p.m., $65-$75

Breakfast/brunch hotspot Café Estelle will be cooking into the night on NYE, offering an elaborate five-course ta...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/16/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/16/whats-cooking [ the week in eats ]

James Narog
JG Domestic Battle Sparkling Wine Dinner
Through Dec. 30, $65-$90

In honor of his recent bubbly-based Iron Chef America victory, Jose Garces is offering his winning dishes to the public for the first time. Guests can enjoy seared diver scallop with sparkling wine hollandaise and sparkling wine soubise, Prosecco-braised rabbit leg and more. For an additional $25, pair up your courses with various sparklings. JG Domestic, Cira Centre, 2929 Arch St., 215-222-2363, jgdomestic.com.

Sixpoint Brewing's Mad Scientist Series
Dec. 13-23, various locations, pay as you go

Sixpoint's "Mad Scientist" line of limited, oddball, draft-only beers has begun invading Philly. The first in the series from the Brooklyn brewery is the 9.4 percent ABV Spelt Wine, a barleywine that features spelt introduced into the brewing process. The tapping schedule is as follows: Fri., Dec. 17, 5 p.m., at El Camino Real; Sat., Dec. 18, 2 p.m., at Village Whiskey; Mon., Dec. 20., 7 p.m., at Grey Lodge Pub; and Tue., Dec. 21, 7 p.m., at City Tap House. For more info, visit sixpoint.com.

A Very Jewish Christmas at Zahav
Wed., Dec. 22, 6 and 8:30 p.m., $50

Michael Solomonov has creatively reworked a Jewish tradition into a fun evening for all faiths. He'll be turning the takeout-and-a-movie standby, popular with Jewish families on Dec. 25, into an evening of Israeli-influenced Chinese cuisine and classic films from the '80s. (The titles are top-secret.) The menu will feature eight different items, including wonton soup with Yemenite curry and veal dumplings; and Persian fried rice with smoked pork belly. Zahav, 237 St. James Place, 215-625-8800, zahavrestaurant.com.

French Christmas Dinner at Bistrot La Minette <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/09/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/09/whats-cooking [ the week in eats ]

Yuletide Cheese Tasting at Fair Food Farmstand
Fri., Dec. 10, 6:30-10 p.m., $35

Fair Food Farmstand has teamed up with Tenaya Darlington (aka Madame Fromage) and the Foodery for an evening of cheesy delight. A tasting will include cheeses like Calkins Creamery's Noble Road, a rich raw-milk brie; and Amazing Acres' Banon, a goat cheese with a citrus flavor subdued by brandy-soaked leaves. The Foodery will provide beer pairings. Purchase tix at the farm stand. Fair Food Farmstand, Reading Terminal Market, 12th and Arch streets, 215-386-5211, ext. 120, fairfoodphilly.org.

"Tripel Three Ways" at Nodding Head
Sat., Dec. 11, 3-6 p.m., pay as you go

For this tasting event, held on the second Saturday of every month, Nodding Head brewers Gordon Grubb and Michael Fava feature three thematic one-off beers. This Saturday, they'll explore the Belgian tripel with a trio of special brews. There will be the house Tripel, a light ale with hints of spice and fruit; the dry-hopped Egress Quatro; and the barrel-aged Phreddie, which has a white wine-like finish. Nodding Head, 1516 Sansom St., 215-569-9525, noddinghead.com.

Mad Elf, Happy You at Grey Lodge Pub
Fri., Dec.10, 6-9 p.m., pay as you go

It's that time of year again — Troegs Mad Elf is on tap! Grey Lodge will pour both the 2009 and 2010 versions of the Christmas ale, along with Dreamweaver and Troegs Scratch in case you'd like to switch it up. (Why would you?) "Jolly Ol' Saint" Nick Johnson, a Troegs rep, will be there selling Mad Elf swag, ushering in Christmas early, in beer form. Grey Lodge Pub, 6235 Frankford Ave., 215-856-3591, greylodge.com.

Italian Wine Dinner at Granite Hill Restaurant
Fri., Dec. 10, 6 p.m., $65 per person

Stephen Starr's Granite Hill, located in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, puts the focus on ...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/02/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/12/02/whats-cooking Good Dog Seventh Anniversary Party
Sun., Dec. 5, 5 p.m., pay as you go
Good Dog is celebrating its seventh anniversary (that's 49 in dog years!) with a day to remember. Featuring nearly 15 new beers (to be to be tapped and revealed day-of), the bar will also offer special hors d’oeuvres along with its regular menu. The winners of the annual dog photo contest will be revealed, and the night will also include games and raffles; prizes will include bottles of wine, cases of beer and other goodies. Good Dog will match and donate 100 percent of the raffle's proceeds, plus 10 percent of the evening's sales, to the Morris Animal Refuge. Good Dog, 224 S. 15th St., 215-985-9600, gooddogbar.com.

South Philly Food Co-op Fundraiser at South Philadelphia Tap Room
Tue., Dec. 7, 7-10 p.m., suggested donation of $10
The South Philly Food Co-Op has been working tirelessly for more than a year to bring a food co-op to the 'hood. Join the cause by drinking beer and eating delicious food with other like-minded folks. The entrance fee not only helps the co-op’s cause, but gets you a bracelet and door prize ticket. SPTR will host the evening, featuring half-price drafts (happy hour prices will be extended for those wearing bracelets), plus locally sourced food specials created by chef Scott Schroeder. South Philadelphia Tap Room, 1509 Mifflin St., 215-271-7787, southphiladelphiataproom.com.

MangoMoon Chef in Residence featuring Haruo Ige
Preview party Wed., Dec. 8, 6:30-9:30 p.m., $35; menu available through the end of December
MangoMoon chef/owner Moon Krapugthong will share her kitchen with Japanese chef Haruo Ige for the first installment in her "Chef in Residence" series. The Manayunk eatery will explore the everyday foods of Ige's home city of Okinawa throughout the month of December, with twists on sushi and other traditional dishes. Join the chefs on Dec. 8 for a preview party launching the menu; the evening will also feature a presentation by Krapugthong and Ige highlighting the differences between the Japanese and Thai cuisines. You can sample the Chef in Residence menu throughout December. MangoMoon, 4161 Main St., 215-487-1230, <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/11/18/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/11/18/whats-cooking

[ the week in eats ]

Sixpoint Pop-Up Brewery at City Tap House
Fri.-Sun., Nov. 19-21, $5-$10

City Tap House's first-ever Pop-Up Brewery puts distinctive microbreweries on draft in the bar's private lounge. First up is Brooklyn's Sixpoint Craft Ales, serving Red Tuft ESB, Righteous Ale and many more brews — including the nearly-kicked summer seasonal Apollo Wheat. (Only 10 kegs left!) Snag a limited-edition glass with two draft pours for $10, or stick to the bar's $5-per-Sixpoint price plan. City Tap House, The Radian, 3925 Walnut St., 215-662-0105, citytaphouse.com.

Country Delight at Pub & Kitchen
Tue., Nov. 23, 4 p.m., pay as you go

Giddy up for Pub & Kitchen's second annual Country Delight, a down-on-the-farm foodie evening of the Southern-fried variety. Sip $3 canned beers, or order "Mickey's Delightful Punch" for $4 (max two per customer — so it's gotta be good). Food-wise, expect buttermilk fried chicken, cider-braised greens and Anson Mills grits with honey and butter. Yee-haw! Pub & Kitchen, 1946 Lombard St., 215-545-0350, thepubandkitchen.com.

A Taste of History: Dining in the 18th Century at the Rosenbach Museum
Thu., Nov. 18, 6-8 p.m., $10

Before TV dinners (and, for that matter, TV), eating was a complex affair: In the 1700s, etiquette was key, and food took much longer to prepare. Women's history/historic food specialist Kimberly Costa's presentation will focus on food prep, presentation and preservation; afterward, guests can sample "historically accurate" sweetmeats and pick up recipes from the time period. RSVP at rsvp@rosenbach.org. Rosenbach Museum & Library, 2008-2010 Delancey Place, 215-732-1600, ext. 123, rosenbach.org.

<![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/11/11/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/11/11/whats-cooking Greensgrow Farms Whole Hog Event
Sat., Nov. 13, 5-9 p.m., $75
Join Greensgrow Farms for its third annual "Whole Hog" event, benefiting the Kensington Community Kitchen. The meal, prepared by Campbell's Soup executive chef Tom Griffiths, will feature a porky buffet of charcuterie and salumi, plus vegan and vegetarian dishes, as well. There'll also be wine, beer and the debut of Philadelphia Brewing Co.'s newest Harvest from the Hood brew, made with Greensgrow hops. The Bill Moos and Friends Jazz Trio will entertain throughout the evening. Globe Dye Works, 4500 Worth St., 215-427-2702, greensgrow.org/wholehog.

Wet Hop Rodeo at Johnny Brenda's
Sat., Nov. 13, 11 a.m., pay as you go
Enjoy a full day of wet-hopped beers both local and national at Johnny Brenda's this Saturday. They'll kick off the day with a "Ranchero" brunch featuring huevos rancheros, cowboy steak and eggs, chilaquiles and more; starting then and running through the night, they'll tap fresh wet-hopped brews from Victory, Troegs, Weyerbacher, PBC, Brew Works, Sierra Nevada and more. JB's is also serving as one of 11 stops on Saturday's Craft Beer Express (visit craftbeerexpress.com for more info). Johnny Brenda's, 1201 N. Frandford Ave., 215-739-9684, johnnybrendas.com.

Philadelphia Phiz Festival
Thu., Nov. 18, 6-8:30 p.m., $49 until Nov. 11, $59 after
Benefiting the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital neonatal intensive care unit, expect Champagne — and lots of it — at this year's Phiz Fest. Don’t think of bubbly is a one-trick pony, though, as the event will celebrate sparkling wines of all kinds, from reds and whites to variations both bone-dry and very sweet. Entrance fee gets you all-access to food, wine and pairing stations, featuring expert advice from sommelier Marnie Old. Participating restuarants include Maru Global, Philadelphia Bar & Restaurant, Cantina Dos Segundos, Zento and Maggiano's. Grand Ballroom Hyatt at the Bellevue, 200 S. Broad St, 610-649-6330, phizfest.com.

 <![CDATA[What's Cooking: What's Cooking ]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/11/04/whats-cooking-cake-boss-sunday-supper-meme-chima http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/11/04/whats-cooking-cake-boss-sunday-supper-meme-chima [ this week in eats ]

Cake Boss' Buddy Valastro at Merriam Theater

Mon., Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m., $31.50-$37.50 For those who can't get their foodie fix on cooking shows alone, Hoboken, N.J., native and Cake Boss star Buddy Valastro (pictured) is swinging through Philly on his Bakin' with the Boss tour. He'll dish on his TLC show, answer audience questions and give a live demo of his baking techniques. The tour coincides with the release of his book, Cake Boss: Stories and Recipes from Mia Famiglia (Free Press, Nov. 2). Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St., 215-893-1999, kimmelcenter.org.

Sunday Supper at Supper

Sun., Nov. 7, 6 p.m., $38 for three courses To kick off its Harvest Week, South Street's Supper will host a Sunday dinner complete with the firkin-tapping of Dock Street's experimental Man Full of Trouble Porter. A "meet the brewer" happy hour starts at 5, and dinner's at 6: The meal will feature a bounty of fresh veggies, like roasted roots with oranges, capers and red onions from Newtown Square's Blue Elephant Farm, which exclusively serves the restaurant. Supper, 926 South St., 215-592-8180, supperphilly.com.

Mémé Regional Wine Dinner: Oregon

Mon., Nov. 8, 6 and 8:30 p.m., $55 for four courses with wine pairings For its second regional wine dinner, in which Mémé owner David Katz showcases the grapes of a specific region, Oregon's Adelsheim Vineyards takes the spotlight. Expect quail, mushrooms and sea urchin paired with pinot blanc, rosé, pinot noir and vin glacé — a dessert wine made with frozen grapes. Mémé, 2201 Spruce St., 215-735-4900, memerestaurant.com.

Brazilian Lunch and a Movie at Chima Brazilian Steakhouse

Sat., Nov. 6, 12:30-4:30 p.m., $20 (in advance), $25 (at the door) To celebrate the Brazil Cultural Center of Philadelphia, Chima is hosting a luncheon and film screening to raise awareness and funds. Entrance fee includes rice, beans, fried polenta, sirloin, chicken, rib-eye steaks, plus plenty more authentic Brazilian cuisine; a cash bar will offer $5 beer...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/28/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/28/whats-cooking Jameson Pairing Dinner at Koo Zee Doo

Tue., Nov. 2, $120/couple

Portuguese eatery Koo Zee Doo has created a special menu to be paired with Irish whiskey-based cocktails from bartenders Phoebe Esmon (Catahoula) and Christian Gaal (Noble). The five-course tasting will include bacalhau (salt cod, raw) with spicy yolk; vanilla-poached lobster with pumpkin; and venison bean stew. On the drinking end, expect cocktails like Jameson with Cointreau, white wine and lemon bitters; and Redbreast 12-year with Falernum, lime and apple cider. Reservations recommended. Koo Zee Doo, 614 N. Second St., 215-923-8080, koozeedoo.com.

Day of the Dead at Distrito

Tue., Nov. 2, 2:30-11 p.m.

Drop by U-City's Distrito to celebrate Dia de los Muertos — the bar will be serving "street food" specials, including assorted skewers (hanger steak, shrimp, chicken) and Nachos Ignacio, with black beans, poblanos, queso mixto and pickled jalapenos. To drink: $2 and $4 beer specials, plus $5 specialty cocktails. Beginning at 8, Jose Garces' Mexi restaurant will also offer a special Herradura tequila dinner for $65 a person; dishes will include hiramasa ceviche and pork tamales with Oaxacan black mole. A portion of the day's proceeds will benefit Puentes De Salud, a local non-profit benefiting Philly’s Latinos community. Reservations recommended. Distrito, 3945 Chestnut St., 215-222-1657, distritorestaurant.com.

El Camino Real Day of the Dead Tequila Dinner

Mon., Nov. 1, 7-9 p.m., $40

Featuring four courses paired with four different Patron cocktails, El Camino Real's day of the dead event sounds pretty tasty/potentially pretty drunk. The dinner will start out with a melon salsa and chips with grilled corn, paired with a drink called the La Rosa (Patron silver, fresh lime and guava Jarritos soda). Sounds bueno to me. El Camino Real, Liberties walk, 1040 N. Second St., 215-925-1110, bbqburritobar.com.

Halloween at Beck’s Cajun Café

Sat., Oct. 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., free

Beck’s Cajun Café in Reading Terminal Market is hosting a spooky Halloween party, Creole-style. Storyteller/singer K...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/21/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/21/whats-cooking

[ the week in eats ]

Ragtime Night at Noble
Thu., Oct. 28, 9 p.m., free admission

Speak easy and enjoy music and cocktails from the '20s and '30s at Noble next Thursday. Starting at 9 and going until 1 a.m., Drew Nugent & the Midnight Society will play ragtime and jazz in the bar area; to quench your thirst, Noble bartenders Christian Gaal and Theo Webb will mix up old-school drinks (think Sidecars and Tom Collins). Period attire is not required, but you might wanna brush up on your Charleston moves. Noble: An American Cookery, 2025 Sansom St., 215-568-7000, noblecookery.com.

Confit Cooking Class at Pumpkin
Mon., Oct. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $40

Join Pumpkin's Ian Moroney for this class on confit methods. The chef wants to correct the misconception that the technique means nothing more than cooking in fat — confit is a means of curing and preservation, and he'll show attendees how to prepare duck, pork belly, membrillo (quince paste) and mushrooms. (You'll eat it all, too.) Feel free to BYOB. Pumpkin, 1713 South St., 215-545-4448, pumpkinphilly.com.

Appetite for Awareness: A Gluten-Free Cooking Spree
Sun., Oct. 24, 2-6 p.m., $20-$75

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA) is back with its annual bash, bringing together Philly's best chefs to raise funds for NFCA's gluten-free educational initiatives. Look out for celiac-friendly dishes from restaurants like Amis, Buddakan, Chifa, Le Bec-Fin, Rouge, Terra and Zahav; an open bar will pour gluten-free beer and wine. There will also be a marketplace featuring gluten-free products. Philadelphia Cruise Terminal at Pier One, Philadelphia Naval Yard Business Center, 5100 S. Broad St., Building 3, celiaccentral.org.

Tenth Annual Harvest Fest at Readi...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/14/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/14/whats-cooking


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[ the week in eats ]

Farmhouse Ale Dinner at South Philly Tap Room
Sun., Oct. 17, 5-9 p.m., $50 all you can eat/drink

SPTR is hosting its second Farmhouse Ale dinner, featuring harvest dishes and equally fall-tastic beers. The $50 ticket includes all-you-can-eat food, all-you-can-drink beer, tax and tip. The chefs joining Scott Schroeder (above) include Nick Macri and Sheri Waide of Southwark, Gene Giuffi of Cochon and baker Patrick O'Malley of NYC's Balthazar. To drink: Ommegang Hennepin, Saison Dupont, Sly Fox Saison Vos and more. Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone or at SPTR. South Philadelphia Tap Room, 1509 Mifflin St., 215-271-7787, southphiladelphiataproom.com.

Bloktoberfest
 Sat., Oct. 16, noon-8 p.m., free admission

 Christian Street will play host to the second annual Bloktoberfest, a daylong party focused around craft beers, good food and live music. The all-ages event will feature beers from the likes of Yards, Victory, Ommegang, Tröegs and Bell's. Food trucks like Coup de Taco, Koja and the Dapper Dog will serve up hot grub, and local bands will soundtrack the celebration. A $10 beer pass, good for three brews, can be purchased online; the tix will be $12 day-of. Christian Street between 20th and 21st streets, bloktoberfestphilly.com.

Cheesesteak Challenge at Square 1682
Sun., Oct. 17, 3 p.m., $20

Square 1682 hosts this cheesesteak battle royale, featuring eight local chefs, including Mike Stollenwerk (fish), Matthew Levin (Adsum) ...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/07/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/10/07/whats-cooking


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Sustainable Seafood Dinner at 10 Arts with Eric Ripert and Jennifer Carroll
Thu., Oct. 14, open seating, $85 ($150 with wine pairing)

Inspired by Local Abundance, a program designed to educate chefs, servers and diners about sustainable cuisine, 10 Arts will host this Earth-friendly seafood dinner. Eric Ripert (of Le Bernardin, Avec Eric and Top Chef fame) will join his chef de cuisine, Jennifer Carroll, to present a five-course dinner and discuss responsible seafood options. Reservations highly recommended. 10 Arts by Eric Ripert, Ritz-Carlton, 10 S. Broad St., 215-523-8273 10arts.com.

Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll Encore
Thu., Oct. 14, 5:30-8:30 p.m., pay as you go

 You can't beat a deal for a dollar! The University City District had such success with its Dollar Stroll series, it's hosting a fall edition. This one-night-only bargain includes pet toys, yoga classes and other eclectic goodies, plus plenty of snacks. Participating eateries include Desi Chaat House, Milk & Honey Market, Vientiane, Gold Standard and the Mariposa Food Co-op. Baltimore Avenue from 42nd to 50th streets, universitycity.org.

Philly Neighborhood Food Week
Sun.-Sat., Oct. 10-16, $20-$30

Think of it as Restaurant Week's less bratty sibling: Philly Neighborhood Food Week involves a handful of participating local neighborhood dining destinations offering prix-fixe menus with two price options, giving people a chance to try delicious spots they might not have visited otherwise. New areas this year include Darby, Ogontz Avenue and and City Avenue, joining mainstays like East Passyunk Avenue, Manayunk, South Street and Penn's Landing. Full list of partici...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/30/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/30/whats-cooking Second Annual Charlie Brown Great Pumpkin Event at The InstituteSat., Oct. 2, noon-10 p.m., pay as you go
For a full day of pumpkin worship, visit The Institute as they celebrate fall 's best treat in food and drink form. The first 10 visitors will receive a free 22-ounce bottle of either Southern Tier Pumking or BrewWorks Devious Imperial Pumpkin; the next five revelers will get free tickets to the upcoming Craft Beer Express. Also look for pumpkin beers from the likes of Dogfish Head, Sixpoint, Weyerbacher, Arcadia, Brooklyn and Southhampton (drink five brews and earn a free slice of pumpkin pie). Pumpkin-centric menu items will include harvest potstickers (filled with pumpkin goat cheese and pecans) and vegan pumpkin risotto. The Institute, 549 N. 12th St., 267-318-7772, institutebar.com.

Midtown Village Fall Festival
Sat., Oct. 2, noon-8 p.m., pay as you go
This Saturday marks the fifth annual Midtown Village Fall Festival, where you can shop, eat, stroll, and hang ten in one of Center City's most hoppin' districts. There is much to see, do, eat and drink in the area, including indulging in offerings from Capogiro, Zavino, El Vez, Lolita, Bindi, Fergie’s Pub, Tweed, Sampan, Smokin’ Betty’s and many more. For more information, see Agenda. 13th and Sansom streets, midtownvillage.org.

Magic Beyond the Gardens: A Fall Fundraiser with Philadelphia Magic Gardens
Sat., Oct. 2, 6:30-10 p.m., $50 ($75/pair)
Celebrating the new South Street exhibition "Magic Beyond the Gardens: Exploring the Zagar Influence," this event will feature hors d'oeuvres from restaurants like Supper, Honeys Sit 'n' Eat and Beau Monde, (open bar!) drinks from Cantina Dos Segundos, ROOT/SNAP and River Horse Brewing Company, and plenty of art and entertainment. Guests can even get in on artist Isaiah Zagar's craft by contributing to the tiling of a large mosaic. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, 1020 South St, 215-733-0390, phillymagicgardens.org.

DO...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/23/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/23/whats-cooking

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Sukkot Harvest Supper with Michael Solomonov
Sun., Sept. 26, 3-7 p.m., $125

Chef Michael Solomonov of Zahav will be preparing a farm-to-table feast in honor of the Jewish festival of Sukkot. The meal will take place at Branch Creek Farm beneath a sukkah, or temporary hut constructed for the holiday. The meal is five courses, centered around traditional Jewish dishes using fresh, local ingredients. The event is in collaboration with Hazon, America's largest Jewish environmental organization, with proceeds benefitting the group. Limited transportation from Philadelphia is available; register online. Branch Creek Farm, 1501 Branch Road, Perkasie, 215-690-1487, hazon.org/harvestsupper.

 

Stephen Starr/SPTR Pop-Up Dinner
Tue.-Wed., Sept. 28-29, 6-9 p.m., $45

The Continental Mid-town will fire up some rooftop grills for Starr Restaurants' last "pop-up" dining event of the season. Manning them will be chef Scott Schroeder of the South Philly Tap Room, who will cook an Oktoberfest-themed spread featuring grilled Rieker's sausages and trout, plus a buffet with liverwurst, potato salad, sauerkraut and more. SPTR bar manager Kathryn Hague has selected Oktoberfest beers to go along with the grub. Tickets (all-you-can-eat and -drink) can be purchased day-of, or you can call the Mid-town to reserve a space. Continental Mid-town, 1801 Chestnut St., 215-567-1800, continentalmidtown.com.

Vendemmia Festival
Sun., Sept. 26, 2-6 p.m., $40-$50

Now in its 14th year, deep South Philly's Vendemmia Festival celebrates DIY winemaking. Attendees will be treated to a never-ending flow of homemade vino into commemorative glasses (included with ticket price — $40 in advance, $50 day-of), a huge variety of Ita...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/16/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/16/whats-cooking


Burgundy Dinners at Bistrot La Minette
Wed.-Thu., Sept. 22-23, $35-$50

Next week, Bistrot La Minette will celebrate food and wine from the area chef/owner Peter Woolsey's in-laws hail from — it also happens to be home to some of the best vineyards in the world. The special four-course menu ($50 with wine pairings) features classic regional dishes like Coq au Vin (chicken stewed in red wine with mushroom and lardons) and Suprême de Brocheton a la Bourguignonne (pike filet braised in white wine and crème fraiche, with mushroom duxelle). No specific seating times, but reservations are recommended. Bistrot La Minette, 623 S. Sixth St., 215-925-8000, bistrotlaminette.com.

Standard Tap Sausage Fest
Sat.-Sun., Sept. 18-19, 11 a.m.-1 a.m., pay as you go

It was the best of times, it was the wurst of times, in the age of ... sausage fests! Standard Tap is hosting this weekend-long forcemeat celebration, going all day and all night. The NoLibs mainstay will feature a wide selection of local Oktoberfest beers (from Stoudt's, Victory, Weyerbacher, etc.) plus $5 sausage platters featuring currywust, bockwurst and more. Standard Tap, 901 N. Second St., 215-238-0630, standardtap.com.

Endless Tacos and Enchiladas at Distrito
Mondays during NFL season, 8-10 p.m., $25

Are you ready for some football? Also, tacos? Starting this Monday, Sept. 20, Jose Garces' Distrito will be serving up this endless-eats deal to commemorate the start of Monday Night Football. They'll show games on their hi-def TVs, and for $25 per person, you get unlimited access to various tacos and enchiladas, including Enchilada de Cangrejo (jumbo lump crab, poblano peppers, roasted corn, salsa verd...]]> <![CDATA[What's Cooking]]> http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/09/whats-cooking http://www.citypaper.net/articles/2010/09/09/whats-cooking linvilla.com

Linvilla Orchards Pumpkinland Launch
Sept. 11-Nov. 7, free admission

Media's Linvilla Orchards officially kicks off carving season this Saturday with the launch of Pumpkinland, a world of autumnal wonder that plays host to an array of live music and entertainment, plus kids' activities (hayrides, cornfield mazes, face-painting, etc.), from now through October. More than 100 tons of gourd-related stuff will be on display; don't miss your chance to pick your own pumpkins and apples. Pumpkinland will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m; visit Linvilla's website for full event details. Linvilla Orchards, 137 W. Knowlton Road, Media, 510-876-7116, linvilla.com/events/pumpkinland.php.

Philly Honey Fest
Fri.-Sun. Sept. 10-12, various prices

You wanna rumble with the bee? Let the Philly Honey Fest throw a hex on you and your whole family this weekend. Numerous events will pay tribute to Lorenzo L. Langstroth, the Philly-born apiarist who is considered the father of American beekeeping. Beginning with a historical marker placement ceremony honoring Langstroth on Friday, the Honey Fest will provide plenty of opportunities to indulge in the sweet nectar of the moment, including a cooking-with-honey workshop and a mead tasting class at the Unitarian Society of Germantown (6511 Lincoln Drive) and a free honey-based beer tasting at Brewers Outlet (7501 Germantown Ave.). Some events require RSVP. Visit phillyhoneyfest.com for full event details.

Center City Restaurant Week
Sept. 12-17 and 19-24, $20-$35

It's baaaaaack. From Sunday to Thursday two weeks in a row, take advantage of $20 prix-fixe lunches and $35 three-course dinners offered by a quasi-intimidating variety of local bars and restaurants. All the most popular spots have signed on again (think Amada, Fork and Zahav), but 2010 Restaurant Week also has a dandy group of newcomers, including R2L, Miga, M Restaurant, Pub & Kitch...]]>