Chefs' Playground Makes its Return

Chefs' Playground : Whimsy and culinary prowess collide in an epic way at the 2nd annual Chefs' Playground taking place May 15 at Terzo Piano. In conjunction with Bon Appetit Management Company's Fedele Bauccio, chef/owner Tony Mantuano will play host to a who's-who of culinary talents, each crafting dishes inspired by schooltime nostalgia. The best part is that the event serves to raise funds for the Academy for Global Citizenship, a public charter school on the city's southwest side that utilizes innovative, engaging techniques to curate well-rounded student wellness. 

(Terzo Piano)

Naturally, an event geared towards an educational outlet would have a childhood-inspired emphasis. Hence, all the chefs will be cooking up dishes inspired by childhood. And cocktails. Because we might be kids at heart, but our I.D.'s say otherwise. There will also be music, a live and silent auction, and more. General admission is $225 per person and VIP tickets are $350. The main event runs from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m., while VIP entry takes place at 6:00 p.m. 

Participating chefs and mixologists serve to substantially up the ante on the types of food you probably remember eating in your school cafeteria. Joining Mantuano for the evening is Thai Dang (Embeya), Stephanie Izard (Girl & The Goat, Little Goat), Bill Kim (Urban Belly and co.), Paul Kahan (One Off Hospitality), Genie Kwon (GT Fish & Oyster, BOKA), Chris Pandel (The Bristol, Balena), Mindy Segal (HotChocolate), John Hogan (Mantuano's forthcoming River Roast), and more. VIP hour chefs include Giuseppe Tentori (GT Fish & Oyster), Gene Kato (Sumi Robata Bar), and Erling Wu-Bower (Nico Osteria). Lunch ladies they are not. 

Purchase tickets here. School is in session. 

- Matt Kirouac