Savor Bites from Chicago’s Top Chefs at First Bites Bash January 26: TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

It’s the first foodie celebration of the year, and the date is set for Thursday, January 26, 2017. A new location at Navy Pier, a new celeb chef host and 32 new restaurants are on the lineup for this 1-night only tasting party. Start 2017 off with this stylish celebration of the Chicago culinary scene… and do it with a deal: Early Bird tickets have just been posted.

First Bites Bash will take over the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier and bring in over 60 Chicago restaurants all under one roof. Hop from table to table to nosh on small bites both sweet and savory. Chef/Partner Sarah Grueneberg of Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificiowill host the 2017 event, from which a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Did you know?

First Bites Bash is the official kickoff event to Chicago Restaurant Week.

Ticket info

Get a rundown of the event below with a look at First Bites Bash by the numbers, and then get your tickets. Admission is $125 per person (with a limited number of $95 Early Bird tickets for sale!). First Bites Bash tickets are available online now.

A field guide to the event

• 69 Restaurants
  A total of 69 food stations from Chicago’s top chefs and most beloved restaurants will each preview tasting portions from their respective Chicago Restaurant Week menus. Get the complete list at firstbitesbash.com.

• 32 New Participants
  The lineup includes several new First Bites Bash participants — Ada St., Bernie’s Lunch & Supper, Coq d’Or, Dos Urban Cantina, Fulton Market Kitchen, Imperial Lamian, River Roast, Steadfast Restaurant and more!

• 1 Incredible Charity
  A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository, which is a nonprofit food distribution and training center providing food for hungry people while striving to end hunger in our community.

• 3 Hours of Sampling
  The party goes from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. so come hungry!

• Drink Partners
  Wine and spirits tastings are included, with samples from Terlato Wines and TD Artisan Spirits.

• 1,500 Guests
  Mix and mingle, dine and dance, with a massive crowd of fellow foodie guests throughout the magnificent Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier.

Keep your calendar open for 14 more days of dining that follow

Chicago Restaurant Week launches the very next day January 27 and runs through February 9. Enjoy dining deals at more than 360 Chicago restaurants featuring prix fixe meals starting at $22. Online reservations will be available beginning mid-December at eatitupchicago.com.