March 16--In February, organizers of a first-time event called the Chicago Pizza Summit were bold enough to release tickets to the April pizza party without revealing the most important part: what restaurants would be there serving pizza.
But with the promise of all-you-can-eat slices and a speech by musician Andrew W.K., it worked. The $35 tickets sold out in a hurry.
Now, event organizers are releasing more tickets (coming Friday) and, finally, the list of participants in April 3's taste-off. Get ready for pie from -- drum roll -- Boiler Room, Dante's Pizzeria, Flo Santos, Pie Eyed Pizzeria, Santullo's Eatery, Lou Malnati's, Dimo's, Gino's East, Connie's Pizza, Home Run Inn and Taco in a Bag (creating "Pizza in a Bag," according to organizers).
There's still at least one question left unanswered -- participant No. 12 is described only as a "special guest."
Old Style beer and Empty Bottle Presents are sponsoring the summit, which will take place at Chop Shop (2033 W. North Ave, 773-537-4440). The first session will run from 2 to 5 p.m.; the second session will run from 6 to 9 p.m. Both sessions will feature a keynote speech by W.K., the self-proclaimed "King of Partying."
Other details organizers are now disclosing: There will be a pop-up exhibit from the Chicago-based U.S. Pizza Museum and the presentation of a "lifetime achievement award" at the summit.
Tickets, $35 per session, include all the pizza you can eat, plus beer. Organizers will release the additional tickets on March 18, at 10 a.m. Order at www.emptybottle.com.
wdaley@tribpub.com
Twitter @billdaley
