Weekend Planner: Taste of Randolph, Sunday Supper at Oak + Char, Ramen Battle
Taste of Randolph
Before the Taste of Chicago, there's a more neighborhood-oriented food festival, with a far better scope of chef-driven restaurants to represent. Taking place June 19 through 21 in the West Loop, the Taste of Randolph boasts an impeccable roster of local restaurants, including Publican Quality Meats, Pizza East, La Sirena Clandestina, bellyQ, Grange Hall Burger Bar, La Sardine, Nonna's/Formento's, and lots more. New this year is a "Restaurant Oasis," hosted by the folks behind bellyQ, an area where attendees can go to sample menu items from select restaurants at the festival center. While reveling in good food, guests will also be able to enjoy beer courtesy of event sponsor Corona and music from bands like Dinosaur Jr, The Dandy Warhols, Emancipator Ensemble, and others. VIP tickets are another new facet this year, available for one day or all three, with bonus features like reserved viewing stands, lounge seating, private restroom trailers, discounted beer, and more. A $10 donation is suggested for entry and more info on Taste of Randolph can be found here.
Sunday Supper at Oak + Char
Another new Sunday supper option in Chicago is Oak + Char, which puts a fun spin on the weekend tradition with a different themed dinner menu each week. Inspired by seasonal ingredients sourced from Green City Market, chef Joe Heppe and co. contrive unique three-course menus for $28 per person. Earlier themes this month included spring pickling and Chinese takeout, with this weekend's offering being a very appropriate grilling theme, per Father's Day.
Ramen Battle
Next up in Yusho's ongoing ramen battle series? Jonathan Zaragoza vs. Tom Van Lente. The monthly chef smackdown next takes place this Sunday, June 21, from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. During this time, the chefs from Birrieria Zaragoza and Big Star, respectfully, vie for ramen glory with their two unique creations. Diners can partake in the friendly fun by way of a prix fixe menu. For $35, guests can their choice of ramen, soft-serve ice cream, and a draft cocktail. Proceeds from the event benefit Pilot Light Chefs.
- Matt Kirouac