• The Texas Asian Chamber of Commerce presents their its annual Culinary Passport to Asia: Asia Food Fest (www.asiafoodfest.org) this weekend on the campus of the Texas Culinary Academy (11400 Burnet Rd.). The event kicks off with a six-course Pacific Sake Dinner ($75) on Friday night and continues on Saturday and Sunday with cooking classes, an Asian food symposium, an Iron Chef-style cooking competition, and an Asian food market. Proceeds will benefit orphanages for Thailand’s tsunami victims and the Arc of Texas. For the full schedule with pricing and reservation info, call Anita Roberts (380-1611) or Veronica Lee (751-8408) or e-mail info@asiafoodfest.org. Sept. 5-7.

• The Water-Hole Saloon (5244 Hwy. 71 E., in Garfield, 512/247-5119, www.waterholesaloon.com) hosts the Outlaws and Ladies BBQ and Chili Cook-Off to benefit dyslexia programs in the Del Valle Independent School District. Categories include brisket, chicken, pork spare ribs, Tolbert chili, pinto beans, margaritas, and Bloody Marys. Cash donations are encouraged, and there will be a silent auction and a $1-per-ticket raffle for a 50/50 split pot. Cooking starts at 9am, judging begins at 11am, and prizes will be awarded at 6pm with live music into the evening. Saturday, Sept. 6.

• The Culinary Institute of America (www.ciachef.edu) will hold a local admissions reception at Roy’s (340 E. Second) to offer potential students an opportunity to learn about degree programs at the CIA campuses in Hyde Park, N.Y.; St. Helena, Calif.; and San Antonio. Prospective students can qualify for a $500 grant by submitting a completed admissions application at the event. Space is limited, and reservations are required. Call 800/CULINARY (800/285-4627). Monday, Sept. 8, 7pm.

• Zax Pints & Plates (312 Barton Springs Rd., 481-0100, www.zaxaustin.com) proudly presents brewer/owner Kevin Brand of (512) Brewing Co. and his inaugural beers at a reception where you can enjoy food paired with a (512) brew and take home a souvenir logo glass. Wednesday, Sept. 10, 6pm.

• III Forks (111 Lavaca, 474-1776) hosts an elegant five-course meal designed by Executive Chef Jaime Gutierrez to pair with newly released wines from Nickel & Nickel. Tickets are $120 per person plus tax and tip. Reser­va­tions required. Wednesday, Sept. 10, 7pm.

This article appears in September 5 • 2008.

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