Chicago Gourmet festival flavors Chicago this weekend

In Chicago this weekend with an empty stomach? Then head to the third annual Chicago Gourmet festival. Hosted by “Bon Appétit” magazine, Chicago Gourmet compiles the best and brightest in Chi-town cuisine.

Event presenters include Frontera Grill’s Rick Bayless, chocolate guy Jacques Torres and former “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” food guy Ted Allen, who is now something called a “food and wine ambassador” for Robert Mondavi wines. And subjects to be covered included gourmet guacamole, great steak and eggs dishes and fall foods. The fest also features live cooking demonstrations from the likes of Carlos Guytan, or Mexique and Bruce Sherman of North Pond Restaurant.

And on both days, master sommeliers will be on hand for Grand Cru Tasting events. Plus there’s a separate “Hamburger Hop” burger showdown scheduled for Friday. Cost for Chicago Gourmet is somewhat steep: $250 for the weekend or $150 for the day (the Grand Cru event and Hamburger Hop are priced separately) — but foodies will find it worthwhile.

For the full schedule of events and payment details, go to ChicagoGourmet.org.