Thursday, May 31, 2012

[Real Detroit Weekly] Baconfest Michigan


Royal Oak, meet bacon. Bacon, meat Royal Oak (see what I did there?). For fairness' sake, let's not just limit this to Royal Oak, Oakland County or southeastern Michigan. Everyone should be able to enjoy bacon. And they shall! On Saturday, June 2, from 6 to 10 p.m., the first-ever Baconfest Michigan will be happening at the Royal Oak Farmers Market. You'll find over 30 restaurants, celebrity chef demonstrations (local celebrities anyway, like our very own Joe Hakim of the Hungry Dudes), live entertainment from the Reefermen and bacon. Lots and lots of bacon. A veritable ocean of bacon. Bacon as far as the eye can see and the mouth can eat. Endless, flowing bacon.

Chicago has its own Baconfest (and, predictably, it's an overpriced shitshow where the chefs act like they're doing you a favor by being there); it's high time Michigan had its own! Not only a celebration of all things bacon, with everything from pork belly to prosciutto to duck bacon to vegan bacon (a nationwide Baconfest first!) on hand, it's also a celebration of all things Michigan. Many participating restaurants smoke their own bacon in-house and source from local vendors using meat raised on Michigan farms. Bars will be stocked with Michigan products including Valentine Vodka, McClure's Bloody Mary mix, Michigan craft beers and a selection of Michigan wines. Baconfest is also striving to be a sustainable festival, utilizing eco-friendly and biodegradable Michigan Green Safe Products for all plates, napkins, cups and utensils.

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