As summer comes to a close, a new food experience is taking off in Asheville. Notice how we didn’t say “food festival.” Chow Chow is something different. No, it’s not an ode to the crunchy pickle relish, it’s a multi-day immersive experience showcasing Asheville’s culinary scene and all the hands that come together to make it so very special.
Chow Chow aims to show guests the alchemy that comes together in the magical Blue Ridge Mountains. From miller to farmer to brewer and baker, weaver to potter and musician to bartender, Chow Chow will be a weekend of Appalachian exploration.
There are farm experiences, seminars, tastings, chef demos, live music, panel discussions, foraging expeditions, artists in action, a food truck rodeo, tours, community yoga, and a maker’s market. There are scores of James Beard Award winning and nominated chefs, writers, brewers and beverage professionals working together on this inaugural event.
Atlanta sends a fine crew to represent our city. Here are a few events featuring them.
Sustainable Wine, Uncorked Workshop
What makes organic and biodynamic wine so special.
Friday, September 13 2:30-3:30 PM ($30)
Features: Eric Crane, Advances Sommelier and Director of Training & Business Development at Empire Distributors.
Brown in the South
A collection of acclaimed Indian chefs explore themes of identity through food in a multi coursed meal with beverage pairings.
Friday, September 13 5-8 PM ($125)
Features: Meherwan Irani, CEO, Executive Chef and founde of Chai Pani Restaurant Group
Cacao, Confections + Cocktails
A behind the scenes tour of French Broad Chocolate Factory with desserts by four pastry chefs, paired with wine and cocktails.
Friday, September 13 7-10 PM ($60)
Features: Kellie Thorn, Beverage Director of Hugh Acheson Restaurants
Appalachian Soul Food: A Celebration of the Block
A walking tour of local African-American heritage and multi-course dinner paired with beverages.
Friday, September 13 3-6:30 PM ($100)
Features: Todd Richards, Culinary Director Jackmont Hospitality, Executive Chef/Owner Richards’ Southern Fried, Cookbook Author: Soul:A Chef’s Culinary Evolution in 150 Recipes
Pickled in the Park Grand Tasting
Tastings, demonstrations, live music, technique area
Saturday, September 14 1-4 PM ($125)
Features: Miles Macquarrie, Beverage Director Kimball House, Watchman’s Seafood and Spirits
And Ligaya Figueras, Food and Dining Editor The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Chow Chow is September 12- 15. Tickets for events may be purchase separately. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
