U2, Pornographic Chili Dog . . . and more

Landmark hosts a free wine-tasting event tonight with music from U2 as soundtrack.


Right on the heels of a whirlwind night two weeks ago, U2 is back in town. Well, sort of.

Landmark hosts a wine-tasting event, creatively pairing the Irish superband's music with vino. Think bold Barolos with "Sunday Bloody Sunday." Appetizers provided as well. Limited seating, so RSVP asap. 6:30-8pm tonight. Free.


Another music-focused wine fete is Rock Band Wednesday, happening every week at Juicy Wine Co. They're serving up the signature Pornographic Chili Dog (beef brisket chili from Smoque and mounds of aged Wisconsin cheddar over a smoked hot link) that should pair well with $4 pints of Three Floyds and $5 glasses of wine. After chowing down, head to the upper level for Rock Band karaoke on XBOX. 6pm-midnight. No cover.

There's even more wine being poured at Quartino, as the trendy neighborhood favorite throws its end-of-the-month wine party. This time they're featuring Spanish wines, which will be poured with light appetizers. 7-9pm. $20.

Top mixologist John Kinder hosts a rare event in the city with this cocktail-and-cuisine pairing at Salud. The four-course dinner (think empanadas, pork tenderloin, spice cake) is complemented by hand-crafted cocktails made with Los Arango Tequila. There may be a couple of seats left, but reservations required; no walk-ins. 7:30pm Wednesday and Thursday. $40.

A good after-work set happens at Rebar for the weekly Champagne Table. This month they're pouring Moët & Chandon, which will be paired nicely with appetizers from the restaurant. Held in the VIP area, with a view of the Chicago River. 5:30-7pm. $20.

Loop workers can blow off steam with complimentary Chivas 18 Scotch at Miller's Pub. Look for the spirit's ambassador, who'll be pouring various cocktails. 5-6:30pm. Free.

And learn all about Templeton Rye Prohibition Era Whiskey, a small batch rye whiskey made in the tiny town of Templeton, Iowa. Guests at In Fine Spirits will be treated to an interactive seminar that includes tastings paired with light appetizers. 7-8:30pm. $25.