Pencil This In

By Staff in Arts & Entertainment on Sep 8, 2011 5:20PM

Literature

The latest issue of literary journal Granta takes a look at the September 11 attacks ten years later as felt in cities from Tunisia to Toronto. Granta contributors Nuruddin Farah, a prominent Somali novelist and perennial nominee for the Nobel Prize in Literature and Anthony Shadid, a New York Times foreign correspondent who has won the Pulitzer Prize twice for his coverage of the Iraq War, will be joined by author Aleksandar Hemon and Nami Mun, author of Miles From Nowhere, an Orange Prize Finalist and winner of the Whiting Writers' Award, for an evening of readings and discussion. This should not be missed. (Barbara's Bookstore, 1218 S. Halsted St., 7 p.m., free)

Food/Cooking Demo

Mexican independence day isn’t until the 15th, but Mercadito is starting early. Next Monday, Sept. 12, Chef Patricio Sandoval is hosting another one of his wonderful chef demos - 5 courses, with paired cocktails and, of course, Sandoval’s wit and wisdom, for $55/person. The dinner starts at 6 PM in the Double A Lounge, and the menu includes Tacos de Camaron al Pastor (Ancho guajillo, marinated shrimp, grilled pineapple, chile de arbol salsa) and Lechon (Roasted suckling pig, rosemary, grilled apples and pears, chile ancho). What a great way to start the fall! Call 312-329-9555 for reservations. (108 W. Kinzie St.)

Free Pinkberry

We know you love your frozen yogurt, especially that Pinkberry. The fro-yo chain's second Chicago location opens in Old Town today and, to celebrate, they'll be offering free small frozen yogurt servings from 5-9 p.m. (1533 N. Wells St.)

If you have an event for inclusion in "Pencil This In," please contact Tankboy (for A&E-related listings), Anthony (for tastings, dinners and food and drink-related events) or tips[at]chicagoist[dot]com.