While the Missouri State Fair and the Ag Department have done the Farm to Table pop up restaurants in year's past, this year is a little different. 

I know what you're thinking.  You're thinking, "Behk, seriously.  When I think of the Fair, I think Corn Dogs and Beer. I have what I need. Why is this a thing?"  Obviously someone doesn't watch a lot of Food Network, huh? You've never watched Scott Conant scold someone for using red onions? Were you even HERE for Top Chef? Masterchef? Cake Boss?  Anything?! Come on, guys. I know we think of ourselves as plain, humble people - but we deserve a treat. We've been working hard all year to have a little fun at the Missouri State Fair, and yes, we WILL demolish our fair share of corn dogs and beer.  You'll probably eat something deep fried and covered in nacho cheese.  But you deserve a little something different, something you don't get every year. Treat. 'Yo. Self.  No, I'm not asking you to buy a ridiculously expensive Batman suit (although I'm not here to judge your life decisions).  I'm not even asking you to spend any more money at the Fair than you normally would!

Trust me. Let's go on this journey.  A cheesy, crunchy, sweet, spicy, savory, panini pressed, slathered with sauce DELICIOUS journey.

Chris J. Cross
Chris J. Cross
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Seriously, guys.  Who gave this French Toast permission to look so scrumptious?

Anyway.  On with the story.  Sorry, The Journey (Steve Perry not included). 

This year, Chef Toby Freeland is bringing his students from L’Ecole Culinaire up in Kansas City down to the Fair.  They hope to bring a little somethin' somethin' extra to your traditional fair food.  Not only are you going to be in the air conditioning, you're going to get some big bang for your buck and walk away impressed.  But here's an issue - is it going to be TOO fancy? Is it going to be pretentious? Are you going to feel uncomfortable going in there in your "fair clothes"?  Are you going to pay an arm and a leg for a half a piece of pork?  Chef Toby told me in no uncertain terms that would absolutely NOT be the case.  I got to talk with him a little bit ago, and he filled me in on all the details. You can listen to our chat here!

Local farmers, local fresh food, professional chefs... how can you go wrong?  This is the best of the best of the best. One thing, though - I misunderstood where it was last time I talked about it.  It's going to be in the Youth Center, which is behind the Gerken Dairy Center and the Cattle Barns.  It's pretty easy to find!

fair map
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You know I'll be there at least twice - I'll keep you updated on how good it is! You know a chubbster like me will definitely check in there.

Foodily yours,

Behka

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