Avli Restaurant Group, in partnership with award-winning Athens-based hospitality group, The Nice & Easy Group, will host the inaugural Chicago Hellenic Chef’s Experience, taking place on Thursday, May 1 at Avli on The Park (180 N. Field Blvd) in Chicago.
This event will celebrate the vibrant traditions of Greek food, wine, and culture in Chicago by bringing together leading culinary talent from Greece with a curated line-up of Chicago's top Greek culinary talent from Avli, Andros Taverna, and more.
Proceeds from ticket sales will support the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago’s Greektown neighborhood, and its mission to share Greek history, art, culture, and the Greek-American story.
Chicago Chef & Restauranteur Line-up:
● Doug Psaltis: Chef/Owner Andros Taverna
● Avgeria Stapaki: Chef/Owner Tama
● Georgios Zervakis: Yasemi, Head Chef
● Nikolaos Fotoglidis: Loews Hotel, Executive Sous Chef
● Eleftheria Sioulas: Avli on The Park, Senior Sous Chef
● Pano Chalikiopoulos: Avli, Partner and Culinary Director
● Babis Tsotras: Avli Milwaukee, Executive Chef
● Vanille Patisserie will be onsite with a tasting table with Greek-inspired treats
Culinary Talent from Greece:
● Chef Sotiris Evangelou of the 5-star resort, Macedonia Palace, in Thessaloniki
● Chef Stamatis Misomikes of NYN ESTI, an acclaimed restaurant by Nice & Easy Group
● Chef Dimitris Pamporis of the luxury resort, Ekies, on Vourvourou Bay in Sithonia, Chalkidiki
The Main Event (6 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) / $75 will feature unlimited small bite stations with food by the participating chefs, a curated selection of Greek wine tasting stations from various regions in Greece, a bar of Greek beers, festive live Greek entertainment, and access to the After Party 8:30-10:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased HERE.
The After Party (8:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.) / $30 will feature a curated selection of Greek wine and beer, as well as the festive live Greek entertainment to continue the celebration of the rich heritage of Greece and support the mission of the National Hellenic Museum. Tickets can be purchased HERE.
“We couldn’t be more proud to host this inaugural event to celebrate the rich traditions of Greece and bring together global culinary talent," says Louie Alexakis, CEO and Founder of Avli. “We’re looking forward to connecting and sharing our heritage to support the National Hellenic Museum, which plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Greek history and culture. This event is a meaningful way for Chicago foodies, Greek-Americans, and local restaurants to honor that legacy and bring the community together for a truly unforgettable evening."
There is complimentary valet available at Avli on The Park however, Uber or ride-share is highly recommended.
ABOUT AVLI INSPIRED GREEK
Paying homage to Greek traditions, Chicago-based Avli Hospitality Group’s restaurants greet all guests with warmth and attention, ensuring guests feel joy in their experience. They evoke Philoxenia (hospitality), Meraki (passion), and Kefi (joy). Avli Hospitality Group’s restaurants include Chicago’s Avli Taverna, Avli River North, and Avli on The Park, as well as the newly opened Avli Milwaukee in Wisconsin. Avli-branded offerings are also available on select non-stop American Airlines flights from Chicago O’Hare to six European cities. The group’s partners are veteran Greek restaurateur Louie Alexakis, celebrated Chicago sportscaster Lou Canellis, and Ian Vlahakis.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL HELLENIC MUSEUM
The National Hellenic Museum (NHM) has a mission to share Greek history, art, culture and the Greek American story. NHM preserves the Hellenic legacy and makes this rich heritage relevant today through its extensive collection of more than 10,000 physical artifacts, hundreds of oral histories, exhibitions, educational programs and special events. Originally founded in 1983 and located in Chicago’s historic Greektown neighborhood since 2011, NHM provides lifelong learning for the community and sparks inquiry and discussion about the broader issues in our lives and society. Regular Museum hours are Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, visit nationalhellenicmuseum.org or call 312-655-1234.