CHICAGO - The National Hellenic Museum hosted its annual Kouzina event in November, bringing together some of the city’s most esteemed chefs to serve up delicious sweet and savory dishes with “a twist on the classics.”
Chef Peter Kappos, at Greektown’s famous Greek Islands Restaurant for 36 years, entertained guests’ tastebuds with very season appropriate pumpkin flutes. Chef Larry Feldmeier of The Albert created a delectable dish featuring braised lamb shoulder with sprouted lentils, harissa and orange, while Taxim Restaurant owner and chef David Schneider served homemade Greek yogurt with traditional spoon sweets. Chef John Gatsos, who has been with the famous Tavern on Rush for 16 years, paid tribute to his grandmother with traditional domlades and avgolemono sauce, sprinkled with edible flowers.
Featured chefs and restaurants this year were Louie Alexakis (Avli Estatorio), George Bournas (Psistaria), Sophie Evanoff (Vanille Patisserie), Larry Feldmeier (The Albert), John Gatsos (Tavern on Rush), Mark Grimes (Che Figata), Nate Henssler (Portsmith), Peter Kappos (Greek Islands Restaurant), Tom Leo (Grecian Delight Foods) Jorgina Pereira (Sinha Elegant Cuisine), Alain Roby (All Chocolate Kitchen), David Schneider (Taxim), Adam Tanner (CityGate Grille), and Elizabeth J. Tokarczyk (Inspired Catering).
The evening included an open bar, wine tasting, special dishes and desserts, music, and a take-home calendar filled with recipes for the dishes served by chefs that night. Proceeds from the event benefit the National Hellenic Museum’s various exhibits and programs.
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WORDS: Portes Magazine
PHOTOS: Stephen Green | National Hellenic Museum