Home Brews, Mountains of Mole and Memorial Day in Chicago

The patio at Red Door

By Sarah Freeman

As Chicagoans retreat to backyard BBQs and beach houses in Wisconsin for the weekend, the stragglers are in for some tasty treats.

Home Brew Dinner
Chicago Craft Beer Week trickles to a close, all of the kegs are empty, but desperate times call for desperate measures in the form of home brews. Friday at 2 Sparrows, a five-course dinner will be paired with five local home brews. Pairings include Chef Gregory Ellis’ shredded goat with housemade ricotta paired with a German-style stout and beef medallions with foie gras butter alongside an American amber ale. Tickets cost $60 (773-234-2320).

Mole de Mayo
In celebration of Pilsen’s Mexican influences, Mole de Mayo corrals chefs, musicians and locals to search for the city’s best mole. The festival takes place Saturday and Sunday on Peoria Street between 16th and 18th Streets. Suggested donation of $1-$5.

Something Old
There are more than just antique bureaus and reclaimed end tables at this season’s kickoff to Randolph Street Market. On Sunday, not only does this market include the vintage and indie designer goods but also the fancy food market which offers chocolates, cakes, breads, spices, olive oils and spreads. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the gate.

Memorial Day Bash
Just because your family and friends left you out in the cold without a Memorial Day party to attend, doesn’t mean you can’t have a few drinks and try your arm at a dunk tank. Red Door’s Memorial Day pig roast will offer $2 PBR as well as patio pitchers filled with English mojitos, Paloma and Pear 75. $18 gets guests all-you-can-eat pig and sides.