Chow Times

• Matt's El Rancho invites UT fans to gather on its newly expanded patio for a Hatch chile roasting party with food and drink specials and family fun before the BYU game this weekend. Saturday, Sept. 10, 2pm until kickoff.

• Learn about important current issues in agriculture and food policy at the Farm and Food Leadership Conference sponsored by the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance at Pearl Stable in San Antonio. Details and registration at www.farmandranchfreedom.org/conference-2011. Monday-Tuesday, Sept. 12-13.

• Chef Lou Lambert of Lamberts in Austin and Fort Worth will sign copies of his new book, Big Ranch, Big City Cookbook, at BookPeople (601 Lamar) after he creates some mouthwatering barbecue outside in the parking lot. Monday, Sept. 12, 6:30pm.

• In honor of Bourbon Heritage Month, the Austin chapter of the U.S. Bartender's Guild presents Bourbon, BBQ and Bluegrass at Stubb's (801 Red River). Sample bourbons and craft cocktails with barbecue to the music of Hem & Haw. $15, USBG members; $20, public. Monday, Sept. 12, 7pm.

• Enjoy a five-course Interior Mexican dinner paired with select Copian wines from California's Russian River Valley when Fonda San Miguel (2321 W. North Loop) celebrates its recent Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. $85 per person; make necessary reservations at 459-4121. Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6:30pm.

• Con' Olio Olive Oils and Vinegars (10000 Research, #130) celebrates the Southern Hemisphere harvest with a complimentary extra virgin olive oil tasting that includes South American-style brisket sandwiches drizzled with olive oil. Later that day, learn more in Olive Oil 101, a class taught by store owner Jeff Konarko. Wednesday, Sept. 14. Tasting, noon-1pm; class, 6-7pm.

• Chef Parind Vora presents Jezebel's artist dinner with Tom Darrah at Braise (2121 E. Sixth). $120 per person, all inclusive; BYOW. Make necessary reservations at www.jezebeldining.com. Thursday, Sept. 15, 7:30pm.