Va Pensiero Wine Events

As an effort to be upfront I am a professional restaurateur. (I own Va Pensiero in Evanston) I am also a long time (and frequent) lurker on this site. This is the best food web site in Chicago hands down
As an attempt at self promotion I am posting about my restaurants upcoming wine event.
If you are interested and looking for more info check our website
The last event showcasing Tuscany was very well received.
Long post but I never know when to stop
Va Pensiero & ChicaGourmets, will host "Celebrate Italy," a dinner series highlighting different regions.

The next dinner, Celebrate Tuscany, with dishes expertly prepared by Chef Eric Hammond, will be held on April 16th
Celebrate Sicily will take place on April 30th. All dinners begin at 6:30pm at Va Pensiero, 1566 Oak Avenue, Evanston, IL. The cost of each dinner is $48 per person.


Tuscany Menu
April 16, 2008

Riso con Chianti Di Uva
Chianti-Infused Risotto
pepper marinated grapes

Insalaate Di Pecorino con le Fave
Fava Bean Salad with Pecorino Toscano
extra virgin olive oil, watercress


Filetto di Manzo alla Pancetta
Pancetta-Wrapped Tenderloin of Beef
braised cavalo nero, ceci dumplings

"Chocolate Salami"
pistachio crème angles


Sicily Menu
April 30, 2008

Melanzane alla Siciliana
Eggplant Baked with Pecorino Sardo, and Oregano
Roasted tomato sauce

Bucatini alle Vedure
Bucatini with Bitter Greens and Roasted Cipollini Onions
ricotta salata

Costolette di Spada al Pomod
Herb-Marinated oro Swordfish topped with Tomato Fondue
grilled fennel, couscous

Ananas alle Noci in Forno
Pineapple-Walnut Tort with Cinnamon Gelato
Ginger

On a side note the ramp fest was a very cool event. If you missed it this year don’t miss it next year.