By Bill Gelman
Le Virtù, 1927 E. Passyunk Ave., is hosting its first Vini e Amici (wine and friends) event tonight (Oct. 25). The monthly series of wine tastings and family-style dinners from new Chef Joseph Voller is $45 per person, and guests will enjoy a complimentary hour-long wine tasting in Le Virtù’s outdoor garden (weather permitting), followed by a cozy family-style meal of rustic, southern-Italian inspired fare. The restaurant is welcoming back old friend Federico “Fede” Dall’Olmo — one of their opening managers and a native of Bologna, Italy — for the occasion. He is the Philadelphia representative for Verity Wine Partners, and will be on hand to discuss the wines and answer questions.
“Chef Voller wanted his first event to be relaxed and informal, and to bring more of that convivial spirit to the restaurant, which fits perfectly with our mission of honoring Abruzzo,” owner Francis Cratil-Cretarola, who recently traveled to Abruzzo and southern Italy with co-owner Cathy Lee and chef Voller, said. “In Italy, they say there is no meal without wine and some of our most lasting relationships in Abruzzo and points south began with glasses of wine.”
Wine tasting begins at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Those interesting in attending should call ahead, 215–271–5626. For more information, including the menu, visit facebook.com/LeVirtuPhila. …
Wings, wings and more wings. Catching a theme here? Sorry, Wing Bowl is the wrong answer. In this case we are talking about the first-ever Philadelphia Wing Festival coming to the 2300 Arena, 2300 S. Swanson St., on Nov. 11. The family-friendly event will feature more than 60 varieties of wings to sample, eating contests and challenges, live entertainment and more. VIP tickets are $49.99, and include two-hour early entry starting at noon, 12 jumbo wing vouchers, two-hour open bar (beer, wine, soda and water), complimentary french fries, commemorative wing bucket and apron and an indoor heated VIP area featuring a private bar. General admission tickets are $19.99 — good from 2–6 p.m. — and include six jumbo wing vouchers, one
drink voucher good for beer or non-alcoholic refreshment, complimentary french fries and a commemorative wing bucket. Children 8 and under are free. Visit upcomingevents.com/philadelphia-wing-festival. …
Who’s in the mood for some Halloween Quizzo with Dr. T? If the answer is “Me!,” Tap Room on 19th, 19th and Ritner streets, is the place to be tonight from 8–10 p.m. Winner will get a themed gift bag. Teams dressed in costume will earn an extra two points. Visit facebook.com/TaproomOn19th. …
Bar Amis, 4503 S. Broad St., is getting into the Halloween spirit by hosting Yappy Hour with Dogfish Head from 5–7 p.m. on Oct. 31. Besides beer specials and game, furbabies are invited to participate in a doggy costume contest. Representatives from the SPCA will be handing out information about providing forever homes for animals in need. The event is weather permitting and pay as you go. Visit amistrattoria.com/events.
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