Ever wonder what you’d make, if you had the skills — and the stocked kitchen — to cook anything you wanted to? James Hackney, chef de cuisine at L’Espalier (30 Gloucester Street, Boston) is getting just such an opportunity on November 9, when the restaurant presents “An Evening of James’s Favorite Things.” That night, Hackney will pack L’Espalier’s degustation menu with some of his favorite dishes, including Hudson Valley foie gras torchon with pumpkin piccalilli, and roasted River Rock Farm beef striploin and short ribs. The seven-course dinner is $94; complementary wines are available for an additional $55. Call 617.262.3023 for reservations and information.