SLM contributor Joe Bonwich weighs in on local food events, happenings, and dining news of note. Look for his observations every other week in On the Burner.
Umlautapalüza
On May 14, Urban Chestnut’s midtown location (3229 Washington) hosts Maifest from noon until 10 p.m. Get a commemorative glass, as well as three beer and food tickets, for $18, with additional food tickets available onsite at $6 apiece. The food is barbecue, and for no extra charge you’ll get to try to pronounce—and hear other people try to pronounce—the day’s beers: Gewässerschutz, Maximilian, Erlkönig, Oxnbräu, and Urbanator. (This becomes progressively more amusing as people order more beers.) Larry Hallar, Paul Bonn & the Bluesmen, and Rusty Nail perform.
Go See a CSA
La Vista Farm is a magical place, perched on the bluffs of Godfrey, Illinois, overlooking the Mississippi. On the one hand, the town is a site of spiritual formation for novices in the Catholic order of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate; on the other hand, it houses one of the region’s oldest, coolest CSAs. If you’ve always wondered how CSAs work—or if you’re just looking for a place to spend an idyllic afternoon—the farm will hold an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. May 15. Heck, you might even become a convert (to CSAs, of course).
Grazin’ in the Grass
On June 11, Marcoot Jersey Creamery and James Beard nominee Kevin Willmann of Farmhaus host “Graze in the Grass,” featuring local ingredients sourced from Marcoot and other area purveyors. The evening includes local wines and microbrews, as well as a tour of the farm (526 Dudleyville, Greenville, Illinois). Tickets are $65 each or $400 for a table of eight.
