Grill Good: Learn Techniques at Davio's, Chow Down at Chiara

Bret Pelaggi, left, with Matt and manager Gabriela Riveira of Chiara in Westwood

By Naomi Kooker

Want to learn the secrets of good grilling? Head to Davio’s on July 21 when chefs Rodney Murillo and Steve Brown show you the ropes on various meats and techniques. Folks will start out gathering for coffee and biscotti at 11 AM, followed by an hour-long class. The price of admission gets you a goodie bag with sauces, marinades and a $100 Davio’s dining voucher, good for 60 days, tax and gratuity not included (11 AM; $165 per person; 617-357-4810; sign up for the class by e-mailing cooking@davios.com).

If you’d rather let others do the grilling, check out Chiara Bistro’s Beer & BBQ Showdown on July 22. It’s the fifth annual event at this snazzy Westwood Mediterranean, where chef-owner Steve LaCount and chef Bret Pelaggi battle it out for best BBQ, and you get to be the judge. It’s a casual jeans-and-tee evening full of grilled goodness and beer pairings. Truly, your vote counts, so bring your appetite (6 PM; $55 per person, excluding tip and gratuity; 781-461-8118).