Get ready to cheer, sip, and savor as the legendary Chicago Gourmet 2025 steps up to the plate with its most exciting lineup yet. Powered by new title sponsor Invesco QQQ, this year’s food-and-sports-themed culinary extravaganza on Sept. 25-28 promises a high-energy weekend where Michelin-star flavors meet major league vibes.
Presented by the Illinois Restaurant Association and longtime supporter Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, the 2025 edition of Chicago’s premier food festival is swinging for the fences with fresh programming, culinary icons, and events hosted across Millennium Park and iconic city venues.
“Just like pro sports, exceptional cuisine is built on talent, grit, and passion,” says Sam Toia, President and CEO of the Illinois Restaurant Association. “At Chicago Gourmet, our celebrity chefs are the real MVPs.”
Kicking things off on Thursday, September 25, from 6:00–9:00 PM is the ever-popular Tacos & Tequila, hosted by Rick Bayless and Marcos Carbajal on the Harris Theater Rooftop. Expect street-style tacos from top chefs, agave-based cocktails, live music, and cultural performances to spice up the evening.
Friday, September 26, from 6:00–9:00 PM brings the Hamburger Hop, where Northside and Southside chefs face off in a high-energy burger competition. Co-hosted by Chefs Joe Flamm and Sarah Grueneberg, the night includes beer, cocktails, DJ sets, and unbeatable views from the rooftop.
Later that evening, the celebration continues from 9:00 PM to midnight with the all-new Asian Night Market. Hosted by Chef Thai Dang and presented by TAO Chicago, this after-dark food event features late-night bites, Asian-inspired cocktails, music, and lights in a street market-style atmosphere.
On Saturday, September 27, food and wine lovers can indulge in the iconic Grand Cru. Hosted by Stephanie Izard, this luxurious tasting event spans two sessions (2:00–5:00 PM and 7:00–10:00 PM) with top-tier cuisine paired with premium wines and spirits — all set against the buzz of the Harris Theater Rooftop.
Sunday, September 28, from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM, closes out the festival with Rise & Shine Gourmet, a brunch celebration hosted by Art Smith, Lorena Garcia, and Jernard Wells. Guests will enjoy a mix of sweet and savory dishes, specialty cocktails, and music to send the weekend off in style.
This year’s talent roster includes over 100 standout chefs such as Rick Bayless, Stephanie Izard, Sarah Grueneberg, Thai Dang, Joe Flamm, Art Smith, Dominique Leach, Carlos Gaytan, Diana Dávila, and many more famous chefs in Chicago.
In addition to world-class eats and drinks, Chicago Gourmet also supports a greater cause. Festival proceeds benefit the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (IRAEF), helping to fund scholarships, workforce training, and youth career development in the hospitality industry.
More culinary events, pre-game activities, and the full chef lineup will be revealed this summer at chicagogourmet.org. So mark your calendars and get ready for a weekend where food takes the field — because in 2025, Chicago Gourmet is in a league of its own.
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