While you might think that you need a ticket to enjoy Windy City Smokeout, that’s not the case. There are plenty of events happening that don’t require a festival ticket.
You can participate in experiences such as dining with James Beard finalist Thai Dang and Chef Stephanie Izard or even meeting acclaimed pitmaster Kareem El Ghayesh. The new Beyond the Pit series is your gateway to experiencing the best of Windy City Smokeout.
Beyond the Pit at Windy City Smokeout events include:
● July 9 — Dinner with James Beard Finalist Thai Dang (Crying Tiger)
James Beard Award-nominated Chef Thai Dang, Chef Partner of Lettuce Entertain You’s acclaimed restaurant, Crying Tiger, is hosting a Southeast Asian-inspired BBQ dinner. Guests will enjoy a multi-course menu that showcases Southeast Asian flavors and celebrates the best of BBQ at Windy City Smokeout.
● July 10 — Dinner with Chef Stephanie Izard
Dine with Chef Stephanie Izard, a James Beard Award-winning chef and owner of Girl & the Goat, for an exceptional culinary experience. Stephanie will curate a special menu that showcases her bold and playful style at the Windy City Smokeout. It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy BBQ-adjacent cuisine from one of America’s most celebrated chefs.
● July 10 — New School BBQ Book Signing with LeRoy & Lewis Barbecue
Evan LeRoy, one of the most influential chefs in modern barbecue, is hosting an exclusive book signing and tasting at the Pitmaster Lounge during the Windy City Smokeout. Guests will enjoy BBQ samples inspired by Evan’s new book while learning how LeRoy & Lewis have redefined Texas BBQ.
● July 11 — Dinner with Pitmaster Evan LeRoy
- Acclaimed pitmaster Evan LeRoy of Austin’s legendary LeRoy & Lewis is hosting an intimate, chef-driven barbecue dinner at Windy City Smokeout’s Pitmaster Lounge. This exclusive experience will showcase Evan’s signature “new-school” Texas BBQ, featuring thoughtfully sourced meats, inventive techniques, and bold flavors.
● July 12 — A Taste of KG BBQ
- Acclaimed pitmaster Kareem El Ghayesh, owner of KG BBQ—one of the world’s most popular BBQ spots—is on-site at Smokeout, where he blends Egyptian flavors with Texas barbecue. Kareem is a James Beard Award semifinalist, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, and a former contestant on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown.
