Date: April 3, 2009
Cost: $75 reservation before March 20, $90 at the door; $125 for a VIP reservation (includes sparkling wine from 6-7 p.m. with guest emcee, Tallgrass Beef rancher Bill Kurtis and organic farmer auctioneer, Larry Wettstein)
What to expect: This fundraiser for The Land Connection features a tasting menu inspired by ramps, the first edible greens to appear in Midwestern forests each spring (they're kind of like onions).
Why to go: The tasting menu includes selections from the chefs of Blackbird, mk Restaurant, Spacca Napoli Pizzeria, Prairie Grass Cafe and more.
Additional info: A live and silent auction will take place at the fest, which is held in the Garfield Park Conservatory. Free on-street parking is available.