Weekend Planner: Backyard BBQ Series, Amperbash, and European Spirits Tasting

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Backyard BBQ Series at BellyQ

Summers are for barbecues. It’s especially nice when said barbecues take place on restaurant patios, assuring the food is as memorable as the blissful weather. Bill Kim is kicking off a summer BBQ series at bellyQ on Sunday, June 26, and he’s joining forces with prominent local chefs to make it happen. Taking place on a monthly basis through summer on the last Sunday of each month on bellyQ’s patio, the roster gets underway with Giuseppe Tentori of GT Fish & Oyster and forthcoming GT Prime. For $45 per person, tickets include a menu of BBQ fare from both chefs, plus two drink tickets. 
 

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Amperbash

To celebrate its first anniversary in business, Ampersand Wine Bar is hosting its second annual “Amperbash” on June 24 from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., and they’ve invited some of their local comrades to join in on the festivities. The bash is a wine walk and block party along the 4800 block of North Damen Avenue in Ravenswood, featuring local businesses, sommelier storytelling, wine education, tastings, food, live music, and more. Ampersand will be doling out mini burgers with Brie and horseradish mustard, plus kale and quinoa salads with roasted garlic, watermelon radishes, and candied cashews. Other vendors in participation include Bang Bang Pie, Amy’s Candy Bar, Gallery 19, One Key Yoga, Groundswell Coffee Roasters, and others. Attendees must be 21 years of age or older for entry, which costs $35 at the gate. Tickets include two wine tastings at each participating business. 

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European Spirits Demo and Tasting at Bohemian House

Cocktails and European spirits take the stage at Bohemian House as part of a special tasting event on Sunday, June 26. Hosted by beverage director Danny Bautista, the event entails demos and tastings of two cocktails, including the Czech Mate made with plum brandy, Becherovka herbal liqueur, apple juice, lime juice, and angostura. The other drink is the Chartreuse Smash with Green Chartreuse, Becherovka, lime juice, mint leaves, and cucumber wheels. The event takes place from 2:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. and the cost is $15 per person. Reserve your spot by calling the restaurant. 

- Matt Kirouac