This Week’s Five Best Food Events – 2/9/2015

Mother nature has been a beast these last few days — time to throw on another layer and head out to eat and drink. Consider one of these five events.

Cutting Edge Food Trends, 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Avenue, Monday, 7 p.m.

Is matcha the next big thing? When will bugs join bread as a must-have when visiting the grocery store? Andrew Zimmern brings his culinary expertise to the Upper East Side for a discussion on food trends. The traveling gourmand will also be joined by Food & Wine editor in chief Dana Cowin as well as food historian Francine Segan. Reservations are $30; secure them through the Y’s website.

Beer, Pickles & Cheese, Jacob’s Pickles, 509 Amsterdam Avenue, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.

Spread the love pre–Valentine’s Day with a fundraiser organized by the West Side Campaign Against Hunger. Guests can snack on pickles, cheeses, and a variety of beers from Long Island’s Barrier Brewery during the tasting. Tickets start at $50; secure yours through the event website.

Beard on Books, James Beard House, 167 West 12th Street, Wednesday, 12 p.m.

Food academic Dr. Libby O’Connell explores how dietary cravings have been shaped by cash, technology, and social innovations during this informal gathering. The discussion includes trivia, recipes, and complimentary snacks and beverages. A suggested donation of $20 is encouraged.

A Chocolate Love Affair, The Access Theater: The Gallery, 380 Broadway, Thursday and Friday, 8 p.m.

Who needs an intermission when a chocolate tasting is part of the show? This interactive performance led by chocolatier and artistic director Megan Sipe allows guests to move around the theater and become part of the show. Most importantly, it explores the impact of chocolate on the five senses. Chocolate will be served by dancers at moments throughout the night. Tickets start at $30.

Tiki Night, Spirited, 638 Bergen Street, Brooklyn, Friday, 7 p.m.

Airline ticket to Hawaii too expensive? For $20, guests receive a tiki cocktail and pupu platter, and can purchase additional tiki cocktails for $10. Cocktail aficionados can also chat up the authors of Brooklyn Spirits: Craft Cocktails and Stories From the World’s Hippest Borough. You’ll need to make a reservation.