Texas Independence and a James Beard Foundation-hosted burger bonanza? What do these two tasty topics have in common? Clear out tonight's schedule and chow down at either of these events.

  • To celebrate 175 years of Texas Independence (let's be honest: we live in NYC, we're going for awesome Texas BBQ), Hill Country (30 W. 26th St., 212-255-4544) is offering ridiculously low prices on some of its menu items. Food specials include dry aged ribeye steaks, cupcakes, and $1.75 Lone Star long necks. Take it all in while listening to live music and don't forget about all the happy hour specials that will run from 3 to 6 p.m.

  • Burger fanatics, tonight's burger "bun"anza, hosted by the James Beard Foundation, will be heavenly. And good news: there's still time left to get your ticket ($125). The price may seem steep, but just look at the "who's who" of chefs that will be creating burgers especially for the bonanza. I spy Ivy Stark of Dos Caminos, Luke Holden of Luke's Lobster, Bobby Hellen of Resto, Hemant Mather of Tulsi, Galen Zamarra of Mas, and Abe Hiroki of En Japanese Brasserie — all NYC-based chefs representing an American "dish." The event will be held at the Beard House (167 W. 12th St.) at 6 p.m.

Source: Flickr User Burger Baroness