CLUCK ’N BUBBLE

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

Nine restaurants featuring some of Chicago's premier chefs will be battling for the elite title of Fried Chicken Champion! Participating chefs will put their own creative spin on fried chicken, an ingredient for a no-holds-barred afternoon of jam-packed action and a good ole time!

And did we mention the bubbles? THE BUBBLES! There will be stations upon stations of bubbles from around the world to pair with your favorite fried chicken bite. And if you're feeling fancy, the VIP Lounge, dubbed “The Hen House,” is where you will find coveted pours of Champagne and even more elevated bites that are synonymous with Champagne.

Who will win the coveted 2026 title of Fried Chicken Champion? You have to be here to find out! Tickets are $150 for general admission and $250 for a VIP experience. Attendees must be 21+ years of age.

Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026

Time: 12 PM - 4:00 PM

Location: The Alston (3rd Floor), 750 N State St, Chicago, IL

Pricing: $150 General Admission; $250 VIP Experience - All Access

Bubbles: Around the world: 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, and Gekkeikan Sparkling Sake. The Hen House: Perrier-Jouet, Louis Roederer, Henriot, and Pol Roger. And more to come!

Proceeds 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.