Michael Ruhlman Comes to Dinner at Balena and The Bristol

Guess who's coming to dinner? Michael Ruhlman, that's who. This esteemed food writer and TV personality is headed to Balena and The Bristol on September 17 to celebrate his latest book, Charcuterie: The Craft of Salting, Smoking and Curing. The prolific food guru is known for his appearances on such shows as Iron Chef America, Cooking Under Fire, and No Reservations, and his extensive library includes The Making of a Chef, The Soul of a Chef, and The Elements of Cooking. He's a big deal. And soon you'll have the chance to meet and mingle.

The Ruhlman day begins with a Q&A moderated by Plate Magazine's Chandra Ram from noon until 2:00 p.m. at Balena. Guests will enjoy an assortment of breads, cured meats, and salumi while reveling in enlightening discussion. Tickets for the Q&A can be purchased here. Then things move on to The Bristol, where a special dinner is to be served with Ruhlman as guest of honor. It starts with a 6:30 p.m. cocktail reception, followed by a five-course menu by executive chef Chris Pandel. Reservations can be made by calling 773-862-5555.

(A sampling of Ruhlman. Photo: Grant Kessler)