Learn everything you ever wanted to know about Chicago’s food scene and more at the highly anticipated Taste Talks, bringing a deliciously rich lineup of top Chicago chefs to share their insiders' knowledge on our favorite food and our city’s infamous food and drink industry. (Morgan Street Studios, 456 N Morgan St, Fri 7–10pm, Sat 9am–6pm, Sun noon–5pm. Ticket packages $100, $170 or $500)
Stroll down Chicago Avenue this weekend to take in our city’s local art scene at the annual West Town Art Walk. Area residents take over the area with pop-up galleries showcasing their work at a favorite fall festival. (Chicago Ave between Western and Milwaukee aves, Fri 5–8pm & Sat noon–8pm. Free)
Get ready for a music-art mashup at the Museum of Contemporary Art’s latest after-hours event. Performance art, film screenings and live music collide at “Vibes,” where electro-pop musician Dan Deacon headlines. Hungry for more? Parson’s Chicken and Fish, Lost Lake, Thank You and Longman & Eagle have you covered. (Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Fri 7pm. $20, advanced $15)
The fearless and fiercely funny Margaret Cho brings her outspoken brand of comedy to Chicago. Hear her new material as she makes her way to the Chicago Theatre on her fall tour. She'll undoubtedly cross the line (we wouldn’t want it any other way) and keep you roaring with laughter. (Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St, 8pm. $29.50–$59.50)
5. Celebrate a Chicago choreographer
Unleash your love for dance with at River North Dance Chicago’s fall program, celebrating retiring artistic director Frank Chaves with a gorgeous tribute. The night features five revived works, including his own choreography in "Love Will Follow" and "Temporal Trance," to honor Chaves’s 23-year tenure. (Auditorium Theatre, 50 E Congress Pkwy, 7:30pm. $28–$68)