This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend an exclusive Q&A sesh with Chef/Partner of Bottlefork and Chicago Gourmet. Moderated by Check Please! host Cat De Orio, I was intrigued by Chef Hickey’s passion for farm-to-table and what it means for the Chicago restaurant industry.
As much as I appreciate dining at restaurants that support local farmers it was fascinating to learn about Chicago’s love for farm to table movement. Did you know Chicago is a pioneer when it comes to farm to table more so than New York because of our proximity to rural areas and farmers? Makes total sense when you think about it.
It’s nice we are ahead of our game but this goes beyond vegetables as our growing season is somewhat limiting. Chef’s have to be creative and turn to farmers for cheese and meats. Chef Hickey does this by serving Fried Cheese Curds with Bloody Mary Ketchup and Hoppy Mayo (mayo made with beer) at The Duck Inn. Um yes please!
COUNTRY Financial is an exclusive partner for Chicago Gourmet because of their commitment to supporting the agriculture industry and local farmers. We can do our part by shopping at our local farmers markets.
The more we continue to support the small farmers, eventually it will help drive prices down and become more accessible to purchase local fruits and vegetables along with items like meats, cheese and eggs.
This has always been my purpose for shopping at local markets. one in Oak Park to buy corn. Not as many vendors but at least I have access to local produce and we’re supporting local farmers.
The city of Chicago offers an online directory of farmers markets selling fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers to surrounding neighborhoods, making it even more convenient.
Have you been to Chicago Gourmet?
I loved everything about it and plan to make it next year for the full day experience. The dates have already been announced for September 22-24, 2017 at Millennium Park. Save the date and hope to see ya there!
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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of COUNTRY Financial. The opinions and text are all mine.
