HOST FARMER: Oriana Kruszewski | Oriana's Orchard GUEST CHEFS: Cesar Murillo | North Pond Restaurant Devon Quinn | EdenGUEST WINERY: Chris & Sarah Pittenger | Gros Ventre CellarsGUEST BREWERY: Lena Brewing Company A warm friendship between farmer and chef brings nourishment to the table. At Oriana’s Orchard, the legendary "pear whisperer" Oriana Kruszewski has spent over 50 years defying the Illinois elements since emigrating to the US from her native Hong Kong. Our dinner is a tribute to her pioneering spirit and dedication to organic cultivation. Against the backdrop of the harvest, we will celebrate the hardy fruits of her labor—from Asian pears and black currants to the rare pawpaws she has spent decades perfecting in the Midwestern soil.In the kitchen is Chef César Murillo of Chicago’s Michelin-starred North Pond. A Top Chef finalist known for his "thoughtfully curious" style, César shares a deep, personal bond with this land, having recently collaborated with Oriana to bring her trees into his own restaurant. His menu will bridge his refined technique with his Mexican heritage, creating a hyper-seasonal feast that honors the direct, vital connection between the earth and the plate.Also in the kitchen is Chef Devon Quinn, the Executive Chef and Partner of Eden, a greenhouse-driven restaurant in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood. Co-led by Jodi Fyfe and Chef Devon, Eden is rooted in seasonality, thoughtful sourcing, and globally inspired flavors. Eden partners with Midwest farmers, producers, Green City Market, as well as its on-site greenhouse to create menus that reflect what is growing, thriving, and in season. Chef Devon’s culinary approach blends global inspiration with Midwestern ingredients. A 2026 participant in the James Beard Foundation’s Chef Bootcamp for Policy and Change, Devon is passionate about supporting local agriculture and building meaningful relationships with Midwest farmers and producers, making this partnership with Oriana and Chef César a perfect one. GUEST BEVERAGE PRODUCER: Mountain Valley Spring Water
