Wild Chanterelles

When it comes to truly enjoying the taste of Northeast Ohio, nothing beats fresh, local mushrooms. Wild chanterelles — sometimes called the Queen of the Forest — grow best from late August to mid-September, says Brandt Evans, chef and owner of Pura Vida. "The flavor has a touch of white pepper with apricot," he says, but warns it can be easily overpowered. "I always like to keep this simple." Evans recommends sauteing chanterelles with onion and garlic, then adding chicken stock and cream to make a sauce. He serves this over grilled bread, pasta or even steaks. "Let them simply shine as a queen should," he says. 170 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-987-0100, puravidabybrandt.com