The 2027 Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence have announced finalists in 12 categories plus three special recipients, including two pioneering chefs and an iconic deli in Chicago. New this year, The Banchets will present its inaugural Environmental Leadership Award to chef Sarah Stegner, co-owner of Prairie Grass Cafe in Northbrook.
Suzan-Lori Parks’ Pulitzer Prize-winning “Topdog/Underdog” gets a riveting revival at Steppenwolf Theatre.
Best bets for fall: Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns returns to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, Bad Momz of Comedy laugh it up in Wheaton, Red Clay Dance brings “Freedom Square” to Evanston, and spooky silent films come to the Pickwick in Park Ridge.
Fat Rosie’s is honoring National Taco Day on Tuesday, Oct. 6, with 10 street tacos for $25. Also, celebrity chef Fabio Viviani is opening a new LAGO in Glenview, and Melting Pot and Fry the Coop are both offering new menu items.
Upcoming concerts include Doja Cat at the United Center, Mt. Joy at Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island, Los Lonely Boys at the Des Plaines Theatre, Don Omar at the Allstate Arena, UB40 at The Auditorium and more.
“We have the traditional German Oktoberfest feel with a modern twist,” says Naper Settlement spokesperson Denise Wilt. In addition to oompah music, the Naperville museum’s Oktoberfest Oct. 2-3 features a variety of German beer and cuisine, children’s activities and the popular stein-holding contest. “We’re looking forward to a great event.”
Mark your calendar for the Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival, Bill Burr at the Chicago Theatre, the Cider and Ale Festival at The Morton Arboretum, Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns at the Chicago Botanic Garden and more.