On the cover of his new recipe collection, “Eat This Book,” a moody-looking Tyler Florence darts down the wet streets of what might be New York’s Chinatown, his arms filled with groceries, his gaze directed broodingly out of frame. Who knew he possessed such dark allure? Florence’s gee-whiz, boy-next-door approach to everyday cuisine on Food Network shows “How to Boil Water” and “Food 911” makes him appear about as dangerous as a soft-boiled egg. Well, no matter which side of the blue-jean clad chef you prefer, get a taste this week with dual benefits. On Thursday, Florence joins Avenues chefs (and guest pastry chef Gale Gand) at 6:30 p.m. to host a super-luxe, $250 champagne meet-and-greet, followed by a multi-course dinner, along with a raffle and goodie bags (108 E. Superior St. 312-573-6695). On Friday, meet him at an informal $50 book signing, demo and tasting at the Chopping Block from 6:30-9 p.m. (4747 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-472-6700). Proceeds benefit Common Threads, Art Smith’s (Oprah’s personal chef) cooking program for kids.
———-
clamorte@tribune.com
