On Sunday, September 21st, lovers of both fine dining and champagne kicked off a Gourmet Series in conjunction with Bon Appetit’s Chicago Gourmet with a bubbly brunch presented by Moët Hennessy. The Corks & Forks Brunch took place at Little Goat Diner (820 W. Randolf Street).  It started off with the refreshing Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial, which was the perfect choice to enjoy among guests in the outdoor patio before heading in for an impeccable 4-course, sit-down brunch created by celebrity and Chicago Gourmet Chef Stephanie Izard. We noshed on Pork Belly (melon, heirloom tomato, chive yogurt) paired with Veuve Clicquot Rosé, Smoked Salmon Crêpes (arugula salad) with Ruinart Blanc de Blancs, Mushroom Frittata (monte amore, toasted almonds frisée) with Krug Grande Cuvée, and ending with the scrumptious Shrimp and Cheesy Grits (braised pistachios, grumpy goat grits) paired with Dom Pérignon Vintage 2003.

To celebrate Corks & Forks, Moët Hennessy will make a donation to the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. For more details about Bon Appétit presents Chicago Gourmet, visit www.chicagogourmet.org.

Images 1-4 by Henrique Kerch, Images 5-11 by Barry Brecheisen