MON 9/24
What a pear!
Changing leaves. Football. Turning off the air conditioning. We don’t care what anyone says: fall in Chicago rocks. Praise the season at the Fall Pear Dinner, hosted by Slow Food Chicago and Seedling Farms. The four-course menu of locally grown foods includes seared scallops with spiced butternut squash puree, duo of duck with ginger-pear sauce and more. 6 p.m. $37; includes tax and tip. $15 additional for wine pairings. Reservations recommended. Uncommon Ground on Clark, 3800 N. Clark St. 773-929-3680.
It’s golden
Between quickie marriages and TV shows that get axed after a week, you’d think nothing lasts anymore. Take heart: the Lodge Tavern’s 50th Anniversary party proves otherwise. The 1957-themed bash features toasts from longtime patrons, a classic car showcase lining the street and plenty of drink specials. We hear that if you don 1950s attire, you could score a free treat. 9 p.m. No cover. The Lodge Tavern, 21 W. Division St. 312-642-4406.
Prost!
Oktoberfest brews aren’t going to drink themselves — and they aren’t going to be around forever, either. Toast the season during Rocktoberfest, kicking off Monday at Rockit Bar and Grill. The party includes German food and drink specials such as warm pretzels with mustard sauce, mini-brats, German chocolate cake, and $4 Summit Oktoberfest beers. 11 a.m. through Sunday. Prices vary. 22 W. Hubbard St. 312-645-6000.
TUE 9/25
Yes, sir
We all feel a little tied down from time to time. But that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Learn how to make the most of it (or turn the tables, if that’s your style) at Bondage on a Budget. Mistress Crimson teaches you how to role play and gives you the tools you’ll need to, ahem, whip someone into shape — all without breaking the bank. 7:30 p.m. $10-$15. Pre-registration required. Early to Bed, 5232 N. Sheridan Rd. 773-271-1219.
Get the red out
Learning how steam your veggies isn’t exactly high kitchen art. But cooking red meat to perfection? That takes skill. Develop your talents when August owner George Djurovic leads a cooking class with demos and a discussion about how to create marvelous red meat dishes. The class is BYOB and includes samples of Djurovic’s creations. 7 p.m. $45-$55 per class. Registration required. 1500 W. Division St. 773-252-9560.
WED 9/26
Sip and survey
Who knew there was a swanky lounge and restaurant with a full-service bar tucked away within the Merchandise Mart? Explore newish spot Bluprint during a walk-around Spanish wine tasting. Chef Sam Burman cooks up tapas for the event and pairs them with several wines. 6 p.m. $20-$25. 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 135. 312-410-9800.
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metromix@tribune.com
