It’s a big week for food and drink in Music City, with a diverse mix of events coming at you from every direction. Whether you’re looking to find the next generation of culinary superstars, sip some Spanish vino or just hang out with the whole family and listen to some groovy tunes, there’s something on the menu for you.
Got a budding baker in the family? Lockeland Table is hosting what they’re calling Whisk-Takers: Kids Dessert Challenge. It’s a kids' bake-off, and it's time to get that mixer ready. On Saturday, Sept. 27, from 1 until 3 p.m., young chefs ages 18 and under can submit their best baked or chilled dessert to the restaurant. The only rules are that submissions must include a recipe, have a maximum of three toppings, and be able to be served individually.
A panel of pros will taste-test all the entries, and one lucky winner will have their recipe brought to life by Lockeland Table's own pastry chef. The winning dessert will be featured on the restaurant's Community Hour menu throughout October, giving the whole city a chance to taste some seriously sweet creativity.
If you prefer your desserts a little more ... adult, head over to Etch on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 6:30 p.m. for a special wine dinner with Emilio Moro Bodegas. Alberto Medina Moro, straight from the family-owned Spanish vineyard, will be in attendance at Etch’s SoBro location to present a lineup of their incredible wines, each expertly paired with a five-course menu from Etch’s talented culinary team.
Get ready to indulge in dishes like Shrimp and Octopus Pastry paired with Bestizo Mencía and Braised Pork Cheeks, with the classic Emilio Moro Tempranillo. It all culminates in a Dark Chocolate Tart served alongside Malleolus Tempranillo, a fitting finale. Seating is limited, and reservations are required, so get your spot on OpenTable now.
Finally, for a weekend outing that has something for everyone, the fifth annual Touch of Brews Festival is back at Sevier Park in 12South on Oct. 4, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Presented by Rhizome Productions and Dogfish Head, this festival is always a neighborhood favorite.
It’s a full day of music with a stellar lineup featuring artists like Gabe Dixon, Paul McDonald and the Nashville Is Dead supergroup, plus a special opening set from the talented kids of the Nashville and Franklin School of Rock. And it’s not just about the music. The festival is all about community, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Nashville Parks Foundation.
The festival is also super family-friendly, with a huge, free Kids' Zone offering everything from arts and crafts and sensory play to face painting and a nine-hole mini-golf course. The Adventure Science Center and the Country Music Hall of Fame will also be on site with hands-on activities, so there's plenty to keep the little ones busy.
Of course, what’s a beer festival without the brews? You can enjoy a variety of craft beers from Dogfish Head, grab a bite from a selection of food vendors, and browse artisanal creations from dozens of local vendors on Shakedown Street.
Tickets are on sale now at touchofbrews.com.
