Xmarx takes tailgating 'underground' at US Cellular Field

July 9, 3:02 PMChicago Dining ExaminerEmily Szopa

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Tailgatin' the big game / photo by Richelle Antipolo (via flickr)

When I went to the Crosstown Classic at the Cell last month, I drove to the field and parked in one of the huge lots, which was expensive, but definitely convenient. My one regret (other than my team losing) was that I hadn’t thought to bring along a six-pack and some burgers. I’m a die-hard Cubs fan, but one of the things I do envy about Sox fans is that they can tailgate before home games.

When I think of tailgating, I think of grills, brats/burgers and beer, but if there are extras like potato salad, slaw, cookies, so much the better, right?

Underground dining group Xmarx is looking to take the tradition a step further with an “underground” tailgate party, presented in conjunction with Perman Wine Selections. Debuting their 21-foot “mobile kitchen,” Xmarx chef Abraham and sous-chef Adrienne will prepare a 3-course lunch, complete with wine and beer pairings selected by Craig Perman, in the parking lot at US Cellular Field before the Chicago White Sox vs. Tampa Bay Rays game on Thursday, July 23rd.

$115 gets you a 100-level seat ($40 face value), plus plenty of food and drinks. The informal party starts at 11:30am with snacks prepared by the Xmarx team and a selection of beer and wine from Perman. It’s standing room only, but there will be tables provided for you to set your drink on while you act out AJ Pierczynski’s toe-tapping batting stance for the amusement of fellow tailgaters.

Following the snacks will be three main courses: One fish, one poultry, one meat, each served with carefully selected wine pairings. The menu isn’t finalized just yet, but the team assures us that your belly will be full of fresh, sustainable food and promises to have “enough alcohol flowing that you should probably leave the wheels at home.” (The Red Line and the Halsted St. bus are great alternatives to driving)

The party ends at game time, 1:05pm, at which time you’ll be given a lovely dessert doggie bag, full of “the world’s greatest peanut brittle,” made by the Xmarx team, and a ticket to a seat in what will likely prove to be the best-fed, most fun section at the park.

There are only 35 tickets available, so stake your claim ASAP by calling Craig Perlman at 312-666-4417 or emailing him at craig@permanwine.com. Once you’ve secured your spot, you will receive a text on the day of the game, directing you to where the tailgate party is located. That’s what makes it “underground,” natch.