Chicago Gourmet 2025: 'Step Up to the Plate' with all-new flavor-packed events

Get ready, food fans! Chicago Gourmet is back and better than ever! Powered by Invesco QQQ, the culinary celebration returns September 25–28, with a jam-packed lineup of events that honor the shared spirit of food and sports. This year’s theme, “Step Up to the Plate,” celebrates passion, performance and flavor, on and off the field.

New for 2025, an expanded Culinary World Series brings fresh concepts, new collaborations and inspired tributes to the city’s rich culinary and athletic culture. In addition to mainstay fan favorites, the schedule includes several brand-new events debuting this year.

Spotlight on 2025’s New Events

Game Day Gourmet at the Crosstown Classic — July 25, Guaranteed Rate Field

Hosted by Chef Kevin Hickey, this elevated ballpark experience blends classic game-day vibes with upscale chef-driven bites. Attendees enjoy the Crosstown Classic from a private suite with curated food, cocktails, and a “Duck Inn Dog” showdown.

New in 2025

Tribute to Jackie Robinson Dinner — August 20, Virtue Restaurant

James Beard Award-winning chefs Erick Williams and Damarr Brown lead a powerful, multi-course dinner honoring the legendary Jackie Robinson, with live music and a meaningful mission.

New in 2025

One-Night Collaboration: eden x Soul & Smoke — August 24, eden Restaurant

A collaborative BBQ feast by Devon Quinn and D’Andre Carter, this one-night-only summer dinner fuses each chef’s signature style into a vibrant, seasonal menu.

New in 2025

A Toast to the Games — September 4, 111 N Carpenter St

Celebrate champions and mingle with Olympians at this intimate cocktail party, featuring Olympic storytelling and elevated hors d’oeuvres.

New in 2025

High Spirits with Happ — September 6, Penthouse at Fioretta

Hosted by Ian Happ, this rooftop evening supportsThe Happ Foundation with skyline views, bites from top restaurants like Prime & Provisions and Fioretta, and specialty cocktails from DineAmic Hospitality.

New in 2025

State of the Game: Illinois Icons — September 9, The Dawson

An ode to Illinois athletics with bites from The Dawson’s wood-fired grill, cocktails, and special guest appearances by Fighting Illini greats.

New in 2025

Robata & Rare Cuts — September 10, Roka Akor

Chef Ce Bian channels Chicago’s sports history through a luxurious robatayaki tasting menu with rare wagyu cuts and artful sushi.

New in 2025

Out of Left Field — September 13, Mordecai

Just steps from Wrigley Field, this cocktail-forward pregame with Chef Djibril Webb offers inventive drinks and small bites before the Cubs face the Rays.

New in 2025

Gourmet Tailgate — September 14, Utopian Tailgate

Hosted by Chefs Jonathon Sawyer and Britt Rescigno, this rooftop Bears watch party serves bold tailgate-inspired fare, cocktails and unbeatable views.

New in 2025

Ice & Fire: A Taste of Glory — September 18, Loft 22 at UMMO

Chef Carlos Gaytán honors the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Fire FC with a dual-themed menu. A portion of proceeds supports three local foundations.

New in 2025

Chefs Get Pickled — September 20, SPF Chicago

Returning in 2025 with new energy, this chef-driven pickleball tournament—hosted by Chef Jeff Mauro—mixes spirited competition with great bites and cocktails.

Reimagined for 2025

Main Event Weekend Favorites

Chicago Gourmet's headline events return to Harris Theater Rooftop with crowd favorites like:

• Tacos & Tequila (Sept 25)

• Somm Sessions (Sept 26)

• Hamburger Hop (Sept 26)

• Asian Late Night Market (Sept 26)

• Grand Cru (Sept 27, Sessions 1 & 2)

• Rise & Shine Gourmet (Sept 28)

These cornerstone events continue to feature Chicago’s top chefs, including Stephanie Izard, Sarah Grueneberg, Carlos Gaytán, Joe Flamm, Karen Akunowicz, Art Smith and more.

Tickets & Impact

Tickets range from $75 to $300 and are on sale now at chicagogourmet.org. All proceeds support the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (IRAEF), a nonprofit dedicated to youth training and workforce development in the hospitality industry.

Whether you're here for gourmet tacos, epic burgers, elegant wines or once-in-a-lifetime chef collabs, Chicago Gourmet 2025 is the ultimate celebration of food, flavor and flair. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this all-star culinary showdown.