A Curriculum of Taste: Flavors for Flights Event

Spartan Terrace Restaurant I-100

Friday, November 7th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.


This event supports the Culinary Study Abroad Program, giving students transformative international experiences that expand their skills and global perspective.

Your participation helps inspire and empower the next generation of chefs to bring the flavors of the world to our tables.

 

Flavors for Flights

Indulge in an exceptional five-course dining experience, exquisitely paired with the celebrated wines of Sokol Blosser Winery. This elegant evening unites the artistry of fine cuisine and wine with the spirit of education, exploration, and discovery.

Each course is a study in culinary mastery—skillfully composed by our accomplished chef instructors and presented by our dedicated culinary students.


Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy enriching conversations as Chef Lucas Wagner, CEC and Chef Chrystie Wojcik, MEd share their creative process and Tommy Hensel, DipWSET, offers expert insight into the nuances of each wine pairing, transforming the meal into an immersive learning experience in flavor and technique.


The ambiance will be elevated by the refined performance of pianist Mr. Aleko Lionikis on the baby grand, creating the perfect backdrop for an evening of sophistication, connection, and inspiration.


As a parting gesture, each guest will receive an exquisite, handcrafted chocolate gift, artfully infused with the wines of Sokol Blosser. A perfect sweet finale to the evening.


Join us for this signature event—an unforgettable evening of fine dining and education in perfect harmony, where every course supports the Culinary Study Abroad Program and helps empower our students to expand their craft and explore the world through food.

Menu


Study of Squash

kabocha, butternut, buttercup, apples, ash, goat cheese, pickled beets

Paired with 2023 Pinot Gris Sokol Blosser, Willamette Valley, OR

 


Bread "Course"

croissant, isi brioche, duck bacon, red onion marmalade,

sour pickled carrots, micro greens

Paired with 2023 Evolution by Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, OR

 


Oceans of Knowledge

wild black cod, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, blackberry, hazelnut, hibiscus gastrique

Paired with 2024 Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir Sokol Blosser, Dundee Hills-Willamette Valley, OR



Lessons in Contrast

Venison and tuna loin, plum jus, celeriac, ricotta gnudi, sweet corn,

cavolo nero

Paired with 2023 Redland Cuvee Pinot Noir Sokol Blosser, Willamette Valley, OR

 

 

The Art of Indulgence

apples and pears: tatin-style, sorbet, spiced apple-brandy ganache, brown butter, cranberry curd, cranberry cake, pecan streusel

Paired with 2022 Bluebird Cuvee Brut Sparkling, Willamette Valley, OR



To maintain the integrity of the menu, only eliminations will be accommodated

No One leaves without "Homework"

Big Time Red Semi-Sweet Chocolate

Rosé of Pinot Noir Ruby Chocolate

Lucky No. 9 Milk Chocolate

 

Tickets are $175 per guest (tax and gratuity inclusive)

Tickets can be purchased by calling

ECC Arts Center Box Office at 847-622-0300

or by clicking the link above.


Box office hours are 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday thru Thursday

Deadline to purchase tickets is October 30th, 2025


Event will be held at:

ECC Spartan Terrace Restaurant

Building I Room 100

1700 Spartan Terrace Dr.

Elgin IL 60123


Questions? Please call (847) 214-7822 or email Jenn Loiacano at Spartanterrace@elgin.edu



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