Strawberries and rhubarb are the Bert and Ernie of spring produce. The seasonal culinary keystones are inseparable friends, oftentimes combined not just for rosy luster, but for the fact that rhubarb’s innate tartness counters the sweetness inherent in the berries. Together, they make for a powerful one-two punch, and a potent foray into warm-weather dining and drinking. From desserts to cocktails, here’s your strawberry-rhubarb bible for the season in Chicago.

Culinary skill and whimsy collide at the 3rd annual Chefs’ Playground event at Terzo Piano. Taking place June 4 in conjunction with Bon Appetit Management Company’s Fedele Bauccio, the event will feature chef/owner Tony Mantuano joined by a who’s-who of culinary talent, each cooking up some childhood nostalgia. The cherry on the altruistic sundae is that the event serves to raise funds for the Academy for Global Citizenship, a public charter school on the city’s southwest side that utilizes innovative, engaging techniques to curate well-rounded student wellness.

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and considering how Chicagoans have to endure long winters before these warm days arrive, we’re excited. To celebrate the occasion, restaurants and bars are getting festive with food and drink events sure to kick off summer in style.