Rico’s Hosts Oktoberfest Beer Dinner on October 6th

I have had a long love affair with beer, of all shades and origins. Most of my friends (and my husband) would prefer a nice glass of wine to accompany a meal – but I have always been and remain a beer lover. I also love a good charity event that partners up with a great local restaurant. That being said, I have found my Mecca.

Rico’s American Grill is kicking off Oktoberfest season with a four-course beer-paired charity dinner. On October 6 beginning at 6:30pm, Rico’s will host a Beer for Brains Foundation dinner with each course skillfully paired with beers by Munich-based Paulaner Brewing. Rico’s Chef Ken Arneson teamed up with the German brewery to create the event’s menu. Throughout the dinner Chef and a brewmaster from Paulaner Brewing will explain the pairing for each dish.

As the second Beer for Brains event this year, the first was a huge hit and completely sold out. Since the first was such a success, the restaurant will dedicate the entire dining room to this charity dinner to accommodate for the surplus of guests. The dinner is priced at $59 per person and does require a reservation. You’ll want to make your reservations quickly for this one!

The Beer for Brains Foundation is locally based in Peoria and was founded by Louis and Laurie Dolgoff. The foundation raises public awareness and funds for brain cancer research through large-scale craft beer appreciation and fundraising events. Proceeds raised by Beer for Brains are donated to the Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center in Phoenix.

Check out a few of the menu highlights below:

• Seared scallop with Grilled Asparagus | Toasted caper and almond butter, sweet onion marmalade and sweet pea bisque. Paired with Paulaner Pilsner.
• Beer Braised Veal Shank | Tepery bean and Roasted trumpet mushroom ragout, warm pork belly and Brussels sprout leaf salad, preserved lemon and honey infused olive oil. Paired with Paulaner Salvator.
• Deconstructed Sweet Potato Pie | Spun sugar, spiced caramel corn and drunken whipped cream. Paired with Paulaner Oktoberfest.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure to create this menu with help of the Paulaner team in celebration of Oktoberfest,” says Chef Ken. “I think our guests will absolutely love the food while learning about the beers and supporting a great cause at the same time. Beer for Brains is an incredible organization, and we are thrilled to be able to continue to support them with this special event.”

For reservations, call 602-997-5850.