Chicago Gourmet, the highly anticipated culinary event of the year, is just around the corner, promising a delightful experience for food enthusiasts and travelers alike. Following a sold-out event in 2022, this distinguished gastronomic festival will take place from September 21 to 24, 2023. The founding sponsor, Illinois Restaurant Association, along with presenting sponsor, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, will celebrate "All Roads Lead to Gourmet" as this year's theme.

Sam Toia, President and CEO of the Illinois Restaurant Association, expressed, "Traveling is the best ingredient for a chef. It reminds us of where we have been and where we can go. It makes all of us great storytellers."

This culinary adventure will unfold at various locations in Chicago, with the rooftop of Harris Theatre in Millennium Park being a prominent venue. The journey will commence with a trip to Mexico on September 21, featuring "Tacos & Tequila" at the Harris Theatre Rooftop. Renowned chef Rick Bayless (Bar Sotano) will present this energetic event, showcasing gourmet tacos and agave spirits prepared by some of the city's finest chefs specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine.

The tour will then proceed to Italy on September 22 for "Somm Sessions" at Adalina. Guests will enjoy an exclusive Italian menu paired with wine, while Chicago's esteemed Master Sommeliers compete in a fun pairing competition of dishes, songs, and wines.

On the same day, the festival will hit the famous Route 66 with the "Hamburger Hop" at the Harris Theatre Rooftop. Presented by star chef Stephanie Izard (Girl & The Goat, Little Goat, Duck Duck Goat), this event will offer delicious burgers, cold beer, wine, and lively music under the stars. A panel of judges will decide the "Top Burger," and guests will vote for the People's Choice winner.

The journey will continue with an Asian-inspired celebration, the "Late Night Gourmet," on September 22 at TAO Chicago. After-party to the Hamburger Hop, this event will feature delectable Asian-inspired snacks, special cocktails, music, dance, and more.

The highlight of the tour will be the "Grand Cru" on September 23 at the Harris Theatre Rooftop. Sponsored by UnitedHealthcare and Lexus, this two-session celebration will offer exclusive wines, extraordinary craft spirits, and unforgettable cuisine prepared by world-class chefs. Guests can savor culinary delights while enjoying carefully selected liquors and wines presented by leading Master Sommeliers and mixologists.

The final two stops will be on September 24. "Rise & Shine Gourmet" at Chef Art Smith's Reunion at Navy Pier will feature a family-style brunch with Southern and Latin cuisine, complemented by sensational cocktails and fun interactions with the chefs, Art Smith and Lorena García.

The journey will conclude with a German-style Oktoberfest celebration, "Prost! En El Parque," at the Harris Theatre Rooftop. Hosted by chef Sarah Grueneberg (Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio), this festival will offer classic German delicacies, craft beers, cool cocktails, and a joyful atmosphere.

Chicago Gourmet 2023 promises to be an unforgettable culinary experience, celebrating the rich diversity of cuisines from around the world. Food lovers and travel enthusiasts should mark their calendars for this exciting event that brings the best of global gastronomy to the vibrant city of Chicago.