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Pier W to Host Unique Mushroom & Wine Pairing Dinner

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  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/05 .. to-host-unique-mushroom-wine-pairing-dinner.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 8:52 GMT by Cleveland.com

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A Fungal Feast: Pier W to Host Unique Mushroom Dinner with Global Wine Pairings

Cleveland’s iconic waterfront restaurant, Pier W, is set to host an extraordinary dining experience this February, celebrating the often-overlooked world of mushrooms in a multi-course dinner paired with wines from across the globe. The event, scheduled for February 29th, promises a unique culinary journey that blends innovative gastronomy with sophisticated wine appreciation – and it’s already generating significant buzz within Cleveland's food scene.

The concept originated from Chef David Wensel, Pier W’s Executive Chef, who has long been fascinated by the versatility and complexity of mushrooms. “Mushrooms are incredibly diverse,” Wensel explained to Cleveland.com. “They offer a range of textures, flavors, and aromas that can be incorporated into so many different dishes.” This isn't just about sautéed button mushrooms; it’s an exploration of the fungal kingdom, encompassing everything from delicate chanterelles to earthy porcini and even more unusual varieties.

The dinner will feature six courses, each meticulously crafted around a specific mushroom or group of mushrooms. While the full menu remains a closely guarded secret (a tactic designed to heighten anticipation), Cleveland.com was able to glean some details. Expect dishes showcasing both wild-foraged and cultivated mushrooms, prepared using various techniques – from roasting and grilling to pureeing and infusing. The focus will be on highlighting the individual characteristics of each mushroom while complementing them with carefully selected ingredients.

For example, one course is rumored to feature Lion’s Mane mushroom, known for its texture resembling crab meat, paired with a crisp white wine. Another promises to showcase black trumpet mushrooms, celebrated for their intense earthy flavor, alongside a robust red. The menu aims to be both adventurous and accessible, appealing to seasoned foodies and those new to the world of fine dining alike.

What truly elevates this event is the accompanying wine pairing. Sommelier Michael D’Angelo has curated a selection of wines from regions around the world – France, Italy, Spain, California, and even South Africa – chosen specifically to complement the nuanced flavors of each mushroom dish. This isn't just about finding a wine that goes with mushrooms; it’s about identifying wines whose flavor profiles will enhance and elevate the dining experience. D’Angelo emphasizes the importance of considering factors like acidity, tannins, and aroma when pairing wine with earthy ingredients like mushrooms. He aims to showcase how different grape varietals interact with the unique qualities of each mushroom course.

The choice of Pier W as the venue is also significant. The restaurant, a Cleveland landmark for over 40 years (as detailed in their history page), boasts stunning views of Lake Erie and an atmosphere of refined elegance. Its reputation for impeccable service and high-quality cuisine makes it the perfect setting for such a special event. Pier W has consistently strived to offer unique dining experiences, and this mushroom dinner aligns perfectly with that commitment. The restaurant’s dedication to sourcing quality ingredients is also evident in their menu choices throughout the year, making them a natural fit for showcasing the complexities of mushrooms.

Tickets for the mushroom dinner are priced at $175 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. This price point reflects the premium nature of the event – the use of high-quality ingredients, the expertise of both the chef and sommelier, and the overall elevated dining experience. Given the limited seating capacity (approximately 40 guests), tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Reservations can be made through Pier W’s website or by calling the restaurant directly.

The event builds on a growing trend in fine dining – the celebration of often-overlooked ingredients and the exploration of unique flavor combinations. Mushrooms, once relegated to supporting roles in dishes, are increasingly recognized for their own culinary merits. This dinner is part of a broader movement towards sustainable and innovative cuisine, highlighting the potential of lesser-known foods.

The success of similar events at Pier W in the past (as hinted at by Cleveland.com’s reporting) suggests that this mushroom dinner will be another triumph. It's an opportunity for Clevelanders to experience a truly unique culinary adventure – a celebration of nature’s bounty, expertly prepared and perfectly paired with wines from around the world. For those seeking a memorable dining experience beyond the ordinary, Pier W’s mushroom dinner promises to deliver just that.

To find out more:

• [ Pier W Website ]
• [ Pier W History Page ]