Hot Chicago Chefs, Bartenders Raise Charity $$$ For Two Different Events In One Evening

Chefs Paul Kahan (left), Matthias Merges

Two hot events occur Monday, April 29, but the good thing is that they're happening only minutes away from each other. That means you can attend both.

Tavernita's Ryan Poli continues his monthly pintxo party where he invites his colleagues to create and serve their take on the popular Spanish appetizer.

This time around he's gathered Paul Kahan (Blackbird) and Matthias Merges of (Yusho), who will not only create signature snacks but help with the night's playlist as well.

For $25, guests get all the pintxos they can eat as well as a chance to mingle with the three chefs. A portion of the sales from this year's series benefits Pilot Light. The event happens 8-10pm.


Perennial Virant's Jacyara De Oliveira, one of the bartenders at this year's "Speed Rack" competition. (Photo: Speed Rack)

Not too far away at the River North location for Taco Joint is a bartenders' benefit for Boston.

Two reps from Boston's bartenders' guild will be pouring drinks as well as a number of local favorites. Participants from this year's local Speed Rack competition will also help out (8-10pm).

The event is $20 per person and that includes unlimited drinks and bites. Proceeds benefit One Fund Boston. It's 8pm-2am, and if you were at the Hurricane Sandy benefit last fall, you know this is one not to miss!