January is one of the slowest times of the year for restaurants, for obvious reasons — the annual post-holiday tightening of belts and budgets, icy streets, winter blahs.
This is why Madison Restaurant Week runs Jan. 25-30, and why it’s a prime time for pop-ups, from omakase sushi to hot dog dinners and chef duos in Paoli.
Below are a few fine reasons to post up at a restaurant pop-up this winter. Note that some dates are in flux, tickets may sell out fast, and details are subject to change. Check directly with the presenting business to confirm last-minute adjustments.
Celebrating 50 years of L’Etoile
L’Etoile kicked off its 50th Anniversary Dinner Series with an alumni dinner featuring Fairchild chef Itaru Nagano; Jamie Brown-Soukaseume from Ahan; Evan Dannells of Cadre and Lola’s Hi/Lo Lounge; and Eric Rupert, founder of Fortune Favors nuts…