Chef Showcase @ Chicago History Museum

A discussion of the state of the city's cuisine will take place tonight with Chicago's top chefs as the panelists, among them Gale Gand of Tru, Michael Kornick of MK, Bruce Sherman of North Pond, and Carol Wallack of Sola. Event starts at 7pm at the Chicago History Museum. Cost: $10; $8 CHM members.

Artisan Breadmaking @ Pastoral Lakeview

You might have already encountered some beautiful baguettes and sourdoughs of Jory Downer, the award-winning baker behind Bennison's Bakery. The breads show up in farmers markets; alongside cheeses and olives in Pastoral; and of course, in their flagship store in Evanston. And chances are, you've been hooked--they are some of the best breads in town. Now, Jory will share his baking techniques with bread lovers at Pastoral in Lakeview (2945 N. Broadway). The class goes on for about 90 minutes from 7:30 pm, and costs $40. For reservation, visit the website.

Gordon Ramsay @ Barbara's Books

Omg, omg, omg! The man himself, Gordon Ramsay, descends on Barbara's Bookstore in the State Street Macy's, ready to sign copies of his publications and, one can only hope, scream at patrons about the consistency of their risotto. In a good way. I don't think I'm alone in my desire to take my pants off whenever Ramsay heats up on screen, let alone takes off his chef's jacket and acts like a normal human being -- Barbara's expects a big enough crowd that only devotees who've purchased books at the shop will be able to get a coveted signature/verbal spanking. Buy a book, get a wristband, jump in line. Mr. Ramsay will hold court from 1-3pm, 111 N. State Street on the Lower Level.

Yelle @ Logan Square Auditorium

French pop star Yelle brings the Tecktonika scene to Logan Square tonight at 8pm. Fans of jumping around while looking like an American Apparel advertisement are on notice: Tonight is your night! Tickets are $15 and are available here. Codebreaker to open. All ages.
2539 N Kedzie

The Teenagers, Team Robosepierre, Darkwave DJs, Bearries

Buzz bands, new wave sounds and hipsters will converge at The Abbey Pub for this show. The Teenagers are one of the most talked about bands this year, with a gritty, kooky new wave pop sound. Team Robosepierre mixes electro and punk into a highly danceable mix. Bearries (psych-house) and the Darkwave Disco DJs play as well.

Del Close Book Release @ Second City

Kim "Howard" Johnson, a longtime friend of Chicago comedy legend and iO founder Del Close, will discuss his new book, The Funniest One in the Room: The Lives and Legends of Del Close. The evening includes a panel discussion and a one-act play -- an autobiographical piece written by Close -- featuring Tim Kazurinsky and Michael Gellman and directed by Johnson. Tuesday, April 29, 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:45); Second City, 1616 N. Wells

Free Cone Day @ Ben and Jerry's

Stop by any Ben and Jerry's to receive a free cone today. It is also the company's 30th birthday. There are participating locations at Navy Pier, Evanston, Oak Park, and Glenview. Visit their website for more information.