Garden Nights

There are many things to love about summer. I’m especially partial to the long bright nights, when the light lasts until late. Many people seem to have so much more energy to get out and do things when the after work hours are not defined by darkness and cold- I know I do. One way to fill the seasonal time slot is by attending Summer Wednesdays at the Cleveland Botanical Garden in University Circle.

Gourmets in the Garden happens every Wednesday, (except July 4), from now until August 29, at 6 PM. Local chefs demo cooking techniques and recipes on the Garden’s Geis Terrace. Besides learning a thing or three from the pros, audience members get to sample the dishes they prepare and ask questions. The second event in the series tonight, June 20, features Scott Kim of SASA and the soon to open Accent in University Circle. Each Wednesday session is $5 per person for Garden members, $11 for non-members. Registration is highly recommended. Tickets for Gourmets in the Garden are available at the door, but seating is limited and some demos fill up quickly. To insure a spot, sign up at least a week in advance by calling (216) 721-1600 ext. 100

Here’s the talent lineup for the coming weeks:
June 27: Stefanie Paganini, Loretta Paganini School of Cooking
July 11: Sergio Abramof, Sergio’s and Sarava
July 18: Steve Schimoler, Crop Bistro
July 25: Douglas Katz, fire food & drink

August 1: Ricardo Sandoval, Fat Cats, Felice and Lava Lounge
August 8: Ali Barker, Radius at South Franklin Circle
August 15: Brian Goodman, Greenhouse Tavern
August 22: Ben Bebenroth, Spice Kitchen + Bar
August 29: Tony Smoody, Bon Appetit

No need to plan ahead if sipping something cold and alcoholic outdoors in beautiful surroundings sounds more like your idea of fun. Just show up for Cocktails in the Garden, 3:00 to 9:00 pm Wednesdays through August 29, (3:00 – 5:00 pm on Wednesday, July 4.), pay the discounted admission fee, and buy the featured signature drinks- a different one each week- for $6 each. You can enjoy the gardens until 9 PM. Soft drinks, bottled water and full bar service is also available on the Terrace, and the Café offers sandwiches, salads, and snacks.

Isn’t it time you stopped to smell the flowers?