Meraki Hospitality Group and Indiana Grown are partnering to reinforce the relationships between farmers and the chefs who plate it.
The two organizations are starting the Whole Hog Invitational, which will feature the talents of five regional chefs. They will use food provided by local farms to sway the crowd and be crowned the Whole Hog Champion.
Chef Michael Lanzerotte, culinary director for Meraki Hospitality Group, worked in Chicago restaurants and lived in Northwest Indiana. He said he was amazed how much of the food he prepared came from farms in the Region.
“We wanted to create an event that showcases our local terroir — something everyone in Northwest Indiana should be proud of — and celebrates the farmers and chefs who make our food culture distinctive,” Lanzerotte said in a press release.
Participating chefs will include:
- Chef Nick Idarraga, Ramen District in Crown Point
- Chef Matt Stewart, Tavern on Main in Crown Point
- Chef Jay Ruff, Lincoln & Wicker in Schererville
- Chef Caesar Cicala, Bon Vie in Hobart
- Chef Blake Murray, Burn ‘Em Brewing in Michigan City
The hog in Whole Hog Invitational will be provided by Howe Farms, which sells pasture-raised, soy-free and antibiotic-free beef and pork in Crown Point.
“Everything we do is about our animals and our neighbors,” said Steve Howe, owner of Howe Farms. “Whole Hog Invitational gives us the chance to bring those two worlds together — to celebrate the animals we raise, the talented chefs who work with them, and the community we’re proud to be part of.”
The event from 5 to 10 p.m. Oct. 9 at Bulldog Park in Crown Point also will feature an Indiana Grown farmers market, live music, family fun, and Meraki Mobile, which will serve food and drinks.
“More than anything, we hope Whole Hog Invitational creates opportunities for new relationships between farmers and consumers, helping people better understand where their food comes from and strengthening the connection between our local farms and the communities they feed,” said Lanzerotte, who also owns Rolling Fog Farmstead.
The event also will support the NWI No Child Hungry initiative, which provides “buddy bags” for food insecure children.
Indiana Grown is an initiative of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.
Find ticket and more event information here.
