Posted Jul 16, 2025
All proceeds benefit Green City Market’s nonprofit mission to support sustainable farmers and increase access to locally-grown food
(Chicago) — Green City Market’s beloved Chef BBQ returns to Lincoln Park on Thursday, September 4 from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. CT, bringing together over 100 of Chicago’s most celebrated chefs, restaurants, brewers, and mixologists for an unforgettable evening. Unlike any other food festival in Chicago, every chef participating in Chef BBQ sources sustainably-grown ingredients directly from Green City Market’s local farmers and vendors — making it the most hyperlocal culinary event of the year.
This one-of-a-kind food festival fuels Green City Market’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit mission to secure the future of food by supporting sustainable farmers, educating our community, and expanding access to locally-grown food. All proceeds directly support this work.
Featured talent for the 2025 event include avec, Bang Bang Pie, Begyle Brewing, Zeitlin’s Delicatessen, Virtue Cider, and many, many more. This event is brought to you by Green City Market through support by generous sponsors Ritual Zero Proof, The Paramount Group, Protiviti, Lyra Health, ChefTOG, and Cooley Law.
“Chef BBQ isn’t just a tasting event — it’s a full-circle celebration of our local food system,” said Letisha “Tish” Steele, Executive Director of Green City Market. “This is a night where Chicago’s top chefs honor the farmers who grow their food. When you attend Chef BBQ, you are both investing in a more sustainable food system while enjoying incredible, delicious dishes.”
VIP guests enjoy access to a bespoke VIP section, including premium reserved seating, trays for carrying unlimited small plates and beverages back to your table, and exclusive VIP beverage activations. VIPs also gain access to the event one hour early (5:30 p.m.) for coveted face time with Chicago's top chefs and an opportunity to begin the tasting experience before General Admission guests arrive. Ideal for groups and corporate client entertainment, a limited number of VIP Cabanas include luxurious lounge seating under a shaded tent. Learn more and purchase tickets at www.greencitymarket.org/chefbbqvip.
General Admission tickets (entry begins at 6:30 p.m.) include unlimited access to 100+ small plates and beverage offerings available at the event; no need to purchase additional food or beverage tickets once inside.
With the focus of this event on spotlighting fresh, peak season flavors, there will be plenty more than BBQ bites. With many vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, there will be plenty for everyone to enjoy.
Sponsorship packages are available and feature opportunities for brands to connect with tens of thousands of Chicagoans, participate in media and marketing opportunities, and more. Interested parties can request a customized sponsorship package at www.greencitymarket.org/sponsorbbq.
PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE
See here for general photos and video of Green City Market for media use.
See here for photos of Chef BBQ for media use.
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ABOUT GREEN CITY MARKET
Nonprofit Green City Market is proud to be a local food leader whose mission is to secure the future of food by deepening support for sustainable farmers, educating our community, and expanding access to locally-grown food. For more information, visit www.greencitymarket.org.