CLUCK ’N BUBBLE

The Banchet Awards hosted its inaugural Cluck ’N Bubble, a fried chicken & Champagne event celebrating one of the culinary world’s most unexpectedly perfect pairings, on August 23, 2026, at The Alston.

Honey Butter Fried Chicken took the title! Congratulations to chef Christine Cikowski, Josh Kulp and Cam Waron. They were among the eight restaurants that put their own creative spin on the iconic dish.

Bubbles from around the world were served to pair with the chicken bites. They included: Luc Belaire, Ferrari Trento, Nino Franco, Lucci Lambrusco, Berlucchi Franciacorta, Gerard Bertrand, Faire la Fete, G.H. Mumm, Nicolas Feuillatte, Mumm Napa, Roederer Estate, Scharffenberger, Gloria Ferrer, Segura Viudas, Avaline, Mollydooker, Gekkeikan Sparkling Sake, Perrier-Jouet, Louis Roederer, Henriot, and Pol Roger.

Proceeds from the event 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.