Lagunitas Dinner at Howells & Hood

On April 30th, 2014, Howells & Hood (435 N. Michigan Ave.) highlights renowned California-based brewer Lagunitas, who is scheduled to open a brewery and taproom in Chicago this May. Beginning at 6:00 p.m., this special dining event, prepared by Executive Chef Scott Walton and his culinary team, features signature American-inspired dishes, each expertly paired with a selection from Lagunitas.

The beer dinner includes a welcome reception in the East Banquet Room at Howells & Hood, featuring a beer tasting and passed appetizers, providing guests the opportunity to meet and mingle with Chef Walton and team members from Lagunitas. The reception is followed by a four-course menu (including dessert), each dish being thoughtfully complemented with a paired 6 oz. beer taster. This exclusive event begins at 6:00 p.m. and is priced at $49 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Interested attendees can make phone reservations at 312-262-5310. All ticket holders will be held to the 48-hour cancellation policy.

“With Lagunitas officially entering the Chicago craft beer scene in May, we thought it was a great time to collaborate and showcase the tasting profiles of each brew with fresh, seasonal ingredients that are offered on the Howells & Hood menu, says Chef Scott Walton. “Our own housemade items are something that I’m looking forward to showcasing throughout this dinner, particularly our recently launched spring menu items.”

The Menu

Executive Chef Scott Walton and Corporate Executive Chef Paul Katz have collaborated on a menu that offers brilliant twists on American classics. Chef Walton brings his talent and reputation to Bottleneck’s kitchen, as he is one of Chicago’s foremost authorities on fresh and sustainable cuisine. The dishes reflect this dedication to brilliant execution and delicious fare. The event features a Lagunitas-paired menu including:

Reception Appetizers

Chicken Liver Mousse

Housemade boudin blanc, braised mustard seeds, hot cider mustard, housemade beer bread

Lagunitas Czech Style PILS, 6%

Brewed with loads of imported Saaz hops and a bottom fermenting yeast stain that leaves this beer a bit lighter with a smooth finish

First Course

Grilled Octopus

Charred cauliflower, grapefruit, green garlic panna cotta, soy bean, chili black garlic

Lagunitas IPA, 6.20%

Very hoppy, light gold color and slightly medium bodied, thick head with a nice lacing, citrus notes and a clean finish

Second Course

Porchetta

Slagel Farms whole hog, sweet and sour cabbage, smoked pear and golden raisin mostarda, braising jus

Lagunitas Censored, 6.75%

Originally called Kronic, it has a medium body and rich copper color, nice balance between malt and hop

Third Course

40 Day Dry-Aged Ribeye

Braised cap, German butter potatoes, morels, ramps, English peas, pearl onion, red wine jus

Lagunitas Waldo, 10.79%

American double imperial ale, full bodied, malty, plenty of fruit notes, nice amber color with a caramel aroma 

Dessert

Apple Brown Butter Tart

Apple custard, cheddar cheese crust, IPA caramel ice cream, cider poached apples

Lagunitas Undercover Investigation Shutdown, 9.75%

Bitter, strong beer with a medium to full body, nicely complex with a good balance

The reception begins at 6:00 p.m.; followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 312-262-5310.

Via Howells & Hood