RAVENSWOOD — Beer and kale doesn't have quite the same ring as beer and pretzels, but it could if a neighborhood locavore has his way.
Jim Javenkoski, food scientist and local food advocate, is teaming up with River Valley Farmer's Table, 1820 W. Wilson Ave., and Milwaukee-based author Lucy Saunders for "Dinner in the Beer Garden," a meal that explores beer and veggie pairings inspired by Saunders' cookbook of the same name.
"People will share good food, good beer and learn something," said Javenkoski, a long-time friend of Saunders and a long-time fan of River Valley.
He promises an evening of "fresh, seasonal comfort food amplified by local craft brews."
The five-course meal will feature menu items like a roasted squash and beet salad paired with an unfiltered farmhouse ale. Eric and Jordan Rose of River Valley will be on hand to talk about the preparation of each dish, with Javenkoski and Saunders educating folks on the beer selections chosen to complement each course.
"It's not structured," Javenkoski said of the format. "It's meant to be conversational."
Tickets for the dinner, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 24, can be purchased online and are selling out fast. The cost is $50, which includes a copy of Saunders' book.
