Cluck 'N Bubble Fried Chicken & Champagne Event

The Banchet Awards will host its inaugural Cluck ’N Bubble, a fried chicken & Champagne event celebrating one of the culinary world’s most unexpectedly perfect pairings.  Nine restaurants featuring some of of Chicago's premier chefs will be battling for the elite title of Fried Chicken Champion! Who will earn this coveted title for 2026?

Tickets are $150 for general admission and $250 for a VIP experience.

Participating chefs will put their own creative spin on fried chicken, prepared with chicken provided by SYSCO and 100% natural beef tallow cooking oil provided by South Chicago Packing, and paired with Champagne and sparkling wine from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.

VIP guests will receive access to The Hen House, an exclusive lounge featuring premium Champagne selections along with an elevated spread provided by Mariano’s, including sushi, cheese platters, chicken tenders and other bites and caviar and truffles from The Alston.

Proceeds will help advance The Banchet Awards' work to honor Chicago’s chefs and restaurants while developing future programs that support the restaurant community and foster the next generation in the culinary arts through mentorship, education and job training.

Attendees must be 21+ years of age.

Participating Chefs and Restaurants:

Henry Cai of 3 LP, Fat Head Chicken

Christine Cikowski, Josh Kulp and Cam Waron of Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Lawrence Letrero of Bayan Ko, Bayan Ko Diner

Andrew Lim of Sir Chicken, Perilla Fare, Perilla Steakhouse, Noriko Handroll Bar

Ethan Lim of Hermosa

Charmaine Rickette of Uncle Remus Saucy Fried Chicken

Art Smith of Chef Art Smith's Reunion Navy Pier, Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

Jenner Tomaska of The Alston, Esmé, Petite Edith

Lee Wolen of GG's Chicken Shop, Alla Vita, Boka, Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna

Featured Bubbles include:

Italy: Ferrari Trento, Nino Franco, Lucci Lambrusco, Berlucchi Franciacorta

France: Gerard Bertrand, Faire la Fete, G.H. Mumm, Nicolas Feuillatte

American: Mumm Napa, Roederer Estate, Scharffenberger, Gloria Ferrer

World: Segura Viudas, Avaline, Mollydooker, Gekkeikan Sparkling Sake

Hen House VIP: Perrier-Jouet, Louis Roederer, Henriot, Pol Roger