Yule Logs Rule…Come To A Sweet Party

I never really grew up with Buche de Noel, but I do remember the Kemp’s ice cream logs as a kid, does that count? I’m also no Martha Stewart, but I realize this holiday dessert is subject to creative interpretation. Apparently, the Hotel Sofitel thinks so, as it gears up for its 2nd annual “Holiday Rock & Roll” party Monday night, where seven of Chicago’s top pastry chefs will vie for bragging rights when it comes to who makes the coolest Yule Log in town.

Traditionally, the creation features yellow sponge cake and a chocolate ganache, but there will be a lot of jostling for creative license, since some of the city’s top toques are involved: Dana Cree (Blackbird), Amanda Rockman (Balena, The Bristol), Elissa Narow (Perennial Virant, Vie), Meg Galus (NoMI Kitchen), Thomas Raquel (Acadia), Nate Meads (RM Champagne Salon) and Cindy Schuman (Sepia) are the seven competitors; chefs from Stout Barrel House, Maison and Carnivale will be serving up savory “rolled” items to balance things out.

The event benefits Share Our Strength and runs from 6 – 8 p.m., with yours truly serving as MC and host; a panel of five seasoned judges will decide who wins. There’s going to be live music, courtesy of Rod Tuffcurls and The Bench Press, plus punch bowl cocktails and a little after party at the hotel’s Le Bar. Should make for a fun (and sweet) Monday night…all for just $35 on Eventbrite. Hope to see you there!