This Weekend’s Five Best Food and Drink Events in NYC – 4/10/2015

If you now know every line of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, it’s time to get out of the house. Here are this weekend’s five best food and drink events.

Gotham on a Plate, The New School, 66 West 12th Street, Friday and Saturday, 9:15 a.m./10 a.m.

Interest in food has never been greater, but what does the future hold when it comes to our eating habits? This two day conference features six panels, each covering topics like food history, food policy, and the impact of the media on the food business. Featured speakers include William Grimes of the New York Times and Lidia Bastianich; several professors of food studies from various institutions are also scheduled to attend. Tickets are $99 for the general public — free for New School students with a valid ID — and cover either day; reserve your seat through The New School website.

NYC BBQ Cookoff, Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Avenue, Staten Island, Saturday, noon

Instead of breaking out your own grill, consider learning from a few pros this weekend. For $12 — and $5 for kids — guests can enjoy a selection of ribs, chicken, and pulled pork as part of a competitive cook off. The event will be held rain or shine, and tickets are available at the door.

Brooklyn Mac and Cheeze Takedown 2015, Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club, 514 Union Street, Brooklyn, Sunday, noon

Mac and cheese season is almost over with warm weather around the corner, so why not celebrate with one last bash? This event brings together home cooks hell bent on demonstrating their mac and cheese chops. Tickets are $20 and include all the food you can eat. Drinks will be available for purchase at the bar.

Game of Thrones Viewing Party, Professor Thom’s, 219 Second Avenue, Sunday, 5 p.m.

Still having issues coming to terms with King Joffrey’s death? Or maybe you want to pour one out for the fallen members of the Stark clan? Instead of crying to your flatscreen, consider attending Professor Thom’s annual Game of Thrones party. For $45, guests receive access to a party that includes a three-hour open bar, costume contest, raffle, and prizes. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available through the bar’s website.

Edgemere Farm & Playland Motel Present: A Spring Celebration!, Playland Motel, 97-20 Rockaway Beach Boulevard, Queens, Sunday, 6 p.m.

It’s not quite surf and taco season yet, but this party is a good reason to visit the Rockaways this weekend. Chef Patrick Quinn of The Cookout Food Truck will serve a menu of grilled polenta, braised lamb, and blood orange salad for Sunday night supper. Two additional dishes and dessert are also included. Reservations include one complimentary drink; tickets are $25.