Jimmy Bannos shares his love of Cajun food

PHOTO: Chef Jimmy Bannos Sr. always has been a great ambassador for Chicago’s food scene. | AL PODGORSKI~SUN-TIMES MEDIA

To be a real foodie you need to not only like to eat, but to know about food.

So you’re not going to want to miss a great opportunity that’s coming up to learn about Cajun food.

Jimmy Bannos Sr., chef/owner of Heaven on Seven, will lead another of his Cajun Cooking Classes on Oct. 7. Bannos is one of the masters of Cajun food. He has such a passion for the cuisine, it’s hard not to share his enthusiasm when he talks about it. I’ve known him since my days as Food editor at the Chicago Sun-Times, and I can tell you this, too: he is fun with a capital F. This promises to be a night you don’t want to miss.

The evening features a five-course meal and a demonstration by Bannos. Besides explaining what he’s cooking, I’m sure Bannos will be sharing a story or two about his days running Heaven on Seven. He and the family were operating the seventh floor coffee shop in the Garland Building when he starting experimenting with Cajun dishes. Before long he convinced them to change the menu to feature Cajun and Creole food and the rest, as they say, is history.

But back to the cooking class/dinner. The evening also will feature all-you-can drink beer and wine. Space will fill up quick and reservations are a must, so if you’re planning to go, sign up here.