World’s Columbian Exposition

May 1, 2018 By InCasual Fare

On May 1st, 1893, Chicago opened the doors to the World’s Fair: Columbian Exposition that included forty-six nations. The fair lasted six months and brought over 25 million visitors from all over the world. Within those six months, those that visited experienced a piece of history that has forever changed the city of Chicago. The World’s Fair was so monumental that it is represented by one of the stars on the Chicago Flag. During the fair, many things we use and consumer daily were first launched by vendors between May 1st and October 30th, 1893. A few of the most well-known inventions include the Ferris Wheel which is still a focal point of Chicago’s Navy Pier, the commemorative stamps and coins, Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit gum, Aunt Jemima Pancake Mix, Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer, the zipper, dishwashers and Cracker Jack. It was a Fair of new world items that would eventually change the way of life for many nations.

World’s Fair Event

Often, our corporate clients will ask for a unique themed event that will create an experience for their guests and recently, a client came to us wanting a menu entirely inspired by the World’s Fair. Sales Consultant, Michelle Sterling,(linked)  had to do her research for this one but was able to come up with a creative menu that we wanted to share. The layout of the fair was broken up into different pavilions and buildings so that is exactly how the menu was broken down as well.

MENU HIGHLIGHT
1893 World’s Fair Inspired Bites:

Introduced at the Fair:
The Hamburger
and
Heinz Spiced Gherkins

Kobe Beef Slider
aged cheddar, ketchup, pretzel roll
garnished with cornichon

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Introduced at the Fair:
Vienna Beef Hot Dog

Mini Chicago Style Hot Dog

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Introduced at the Fair:
Aunt Jemima Pancakes

Smoked Salmon and Creme Fraiche with Chive Garnish
on a mini savory pancake

~

German Village
 inspired

Soft Pretzel Bites served with Warm Gooey Cheese

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Palace of Fine Arts
inspired

Asparagus Flatbread
spring truffles, burrata, micro salad

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Cafe de Marine
 inspired

Tuna Crudo with Ponzu
caracara orange, shaved fennel

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Woman’s Building
inspired

Kale Caesar “Scoop”
oven dried tomatoes, shaved pecorino, house caesar dressing

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Irish Village
inspired

Tiny Loaded Baked Potato
candied pancetta, 10 year cheddar, grilled scallion pesto

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Haiti Pavillion
inspired

Jerk Chicken and Mango Avocado Salad
on plantain crisp

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The Ferris Wheel
inspired

mini vanilla bunt cake, vanilla glaze
Bertha Palmer inspired
Chocolate Walnut Brownie

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Mayor Carter Harrison
inspired

Mini Mixed Berry Hand Pie

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The Prairie Avenue Crowd
inspired

Tart Lemon Cake with Lavender Icing Drizzle