Food Industry News: February 2023

Moretti’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Opens 12th Location

Chicago Born, Locally Owned and Operated

Moretti’s makes it an even dozen local restaurants in the Chicago area with opening of the 12th Moretti’s Ristorante & Pizzeria located at 2300 Bushwood Drive in Elgin, Illinois. The latest Moretti’s’ seats over 300 in an expansive dining room and bar area, and can accommodate weddings and other large parties. It includes multiple rooms and a private covered deck area.

Founded in 1992 by Fred Hoffmann, this family owned and operated chain serves authentic Chicago Style thin and deep dish pizza, plus a wide variety of more than 75 other items. Moretti’s roomy, friendly

dining rooms and bars have welcomed millions of guests since its first Moretti’s opened in 1992 on Chicago’s Northwest side in Edison Park.

Based on classic Italian and American cuisine with modern innovations, Moretti’s menu features award winning pizza and menu items including “Mile High Lasagna”, pasta dishes and numerous chef-inspired daily specials. The menu also includes broasted chicken, Brick chicken, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, signature salads, grilled specialties and more. There are

Pictured third from left (left to right): Fred Hoffman, Dean Hoffman, Elgin Mayor: Dave Kaptain

SERVING UP INSPIRATION

In foodservice, change is the order of the day — and the 2023 National Restaurant Association Show is where you’ll find everything you need to deliver – right here in Chicago. Tap into the potential that awaits on the legendary Show floor filled with future-forward suppliers and over 900 product categories powering automation, efficiency, safety, sustainability, and sanitation. Satisfy your appetite for innovation.

Our Project Management team has over 100 years of collective restaurant construction experience.

Project history covers variety from quick serve to white table cloth. Well established with sub-contractors. Proven in value engineering projects.

Bally's Chicago Receives Critical Support From City Council

capitolconstruct.com Click on Chicago tab for more highlights.

Bally's Corporation garnered a major victory after Chicago's City Council voted to approve an amendment to Planned Development No. 1426, authorizing zoning for the construction of Bally's Chicago Casino – a $1.7 billion flagship entertainment destination. The first phase of this project will include the one million square foot casino building, 500-room hotel, 3,000-person event space, dozens of infrastructure improvements in the surrounding area, and a significant amount of public open space.

FOOD INDUSTRY NEWS

1440 Renaissance Drive Park Ridge, IL 60068 847-699-3300

Valerie Miller President and Publisher Alan Féthière Associate Publisher Terry Minnich, Editor Cary Miller Advertising/Vice President 847-602-9620

Robert Damien Sales Executive 773-458-7893

James Contis 1927-2013

Coverages may include — but are not limited to:

• Food and drug regulatory compliance

• Health, dental and vision benefits

• Food spoilage

• Commercial auto

• Workers compensation

• Liquor liability

For more information or a no cost/no-obligation free policy audit, please contact: Steve Gabinski steve_gabinski@ajg.com

• 630.285.3686

"This is a significant achievement and another critical step forward in the process of developing Bally's Chicago," said Bally's Chairman, Soo Kim. "We are confident that the casino will bring numerous long-term, positive economic benefits, including good-paying, union jobs, to this great city."

Bally’s Chicago will be located on the 30-acre Chicago Tribune Publishing Center at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and Halsted Street, Bally's Chicago will transform this currently underutilized site into a major economic driver for the city.

Food Industry News Issue 2 - February 2023 (ISSN #1082-4626) is published monthly, $49.95 for a three-year subscription, by Foodservice Publishing, 1440 Renaissance Dr., Ste. 210, Park Ridge, IL 60068-1452. Periodical postage paid at Park Ridge, IL and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Food Industry News, 1440 Renaissance Dr., Ste. 210, Park Ridge, IL 60068-1452.

For advertising or editorial information, call (847) 699-3300 or visit: foodindustrynews.com

This publication cannot and does not assume responsibility for validity of claims made for the products described herein.

©2023 Foodservice Publishing Co. Inc. WE SUPPORT: Illinois Restaurant Association National Restaurant Association American Culinary Federation Club Chefs Association of America Greater Chicago Club Managers Association of America

•

Arctic Gardens: Keeping It Fresh with Frozen

In the foodservice industry, labor issues and waste are a huge headache. According to the USDA, in restaurants alone, approximately 22 billion to 33 billion pounds of fresh produce are lost to spoilage every year due to inefficiency. Thanks to its proven preservation and freezing methods, Arctic Gardens’ extensive variety of frozen vegetables and plant-based offerings, from the basics to the most sophisticated blends, help foodservice professionals meet their everyday needs and help increase their efficiency with ready-to-cook, frozen vegetables.

Rooted in Canada since 1987 and nurtured by both the generosity of our Earth and the energizing effects of winter, Arctic Gardens offers quality products of incomparable freshness inspired by the principles of northern agriculture. The majority of their products are grown across 5 agricultural zones and processed within hours of harvesting in one of their 13 North American plants (8 in Canada, 5 in the U.S.). Launched in the U.S. last year, Arctic Gardens is committed to meeting its customers’ needs. Operators can choose from its extensive portfolio to serve up the innovative flavors that their customers are demanding.

Arctic Gardens is the main national brand of Nortera, the leading processor of canned and frozen vegetable products in Canada and the United States. With 800+ agriculture partners, 3000+ dedicated employees and state-of-theart technology, Nortera guarantees products of superior quality that meet the highest North American customer standards and consumer expectations. Nortera’s goal is to contribute to the well-being of society by providing easier access to the richness of vegetables.

Trending: Cocktail Recipe for a Pear Sour

Give your customers a taste of Spring, by featuring a Pear Sour Cocktail enhanced by Williams Pear Brandy. The cocktail appeals to simple as well as sophisticated palates.

Ingredients:

•

•

•

•

2023

AROUND THE CLOCK RESTAURANT & BAKERY

5011 Northwest Hwy., CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 815-459-2100

This is a well known casual, comfortable friendly restaurant. They have an extensive menu and serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their food and service is top notch. They also have an in-house bakery and make the most wonderful homemade pies and desserts. I love the Dutch Apple and also the Carmel Apple Pie. You can even take home a whole one!

HOLLAND’S CARAMEL CORN • 127 Washington Square, WASHINGTON, IL 309-886-2000. This is a family owned business located in historic Washington square, specializing in gourmet popcorn featuring one of a kind flavors made from scratch daily. Fresh bags of popcorn of various size s can be purchased on the spot. Traditional flavors include as caramel, cheddar cheese, mix (caramel and cheese), white cheddar, Kandy corn, toasted marshmallow, kaleidoscope, and cracker jax. Gourmet flavors include white chocolate cashew, turtle, sea salt truffle, cinnabun, puppy chow, cupcake, s’mores and white chocolate peppermint (seasonal). Every bag I purchased from here was fresh and delicious!

LA MICHOACANA ICE CREAM AND TACOS • 3620 W. Touhy Ave. SKOKIE, IL 224-534-7964. This is an interesting combination. Ice cream, milkshakes, burritos and tacos. You can dine in, take it to go or have your food delivered. I tried their Carne Asada tacos. They were served on a soft corn tortilla loaded with meat, topped with guacamole, cotija and cilantro, lime crema and pickled onions served with rice and beans. It was very plentiful and so good.

LEZZA SPUMONI & DESSERTS • 544 S. Spring Rd. ELMHURST, IL 630-530-0630. When I’m in the mood for something sweet I love to visit Lezza Bakery and Dessert Cafe in Elmhurst. I usually start with a hand filled cannoli and get a scoop of their house-made gelato or Italian ice on the side. Besides their Italian bakery items, they also offer fresh popcorn, cotton candy and fun nostalgic candy favorites. Don’t forget to take home a couple pints of their legendary spumoni too.

MORKES CHOCOLATES • 1890 N. Rand Rd. PALATINE, IL 847-35-3454. Once you stop here you will definitely be coming back to stock up on candy. They have boxed candy, display cases of candy that you can buy by the pound and packaged candies. I picked up some Valentine’s candy that included gummi hearts and milk chocolate and white chocolate non-pareils. And, a box of the milk chocolate orange peel and some dark chocolate and peanut clusters. Their candy is so good! They also sell donuts and coffee. I tried a couple of the coconut donuts which were so fresh.

PAPA RAY’S PIZZA & WINGS • 967 S. Elmhurst Rd. DES PLAINES, IL 224-319-1010. They offer a monster slice of pizza along with specialty pizzas, pasta, calzones & wraps, salads, a big selection of Mac N Cheese and wings. I ordered myself the monster slice of sausage pizza; it was huge along with some of their award winning jumbo wings; the BBQ and spicy. The big, juicy wings were loaded with sauce and the flavors were incredible. They have numerous locations. Put them on your list for game day foods.

STUDENT BURGER • 2110 Army Trail Rd. ADDISON, IL 630-376-6058. This is a restaurant specializing in halal fast food. They serve burgers, Philly cheese steak sandwiches, gyro and a variety of chicken and fish sandwiches and entrees. Sides include crispy fries, onion rings and stuffed jalapeño peppers just to name a few. Bubble tea and shakes are also available. I had a burger, with fries and a drink. There’s such a variety of things to try on their extensive menu.

Lettuce Entertain You Reveals Two New Restaurants Coming to St. Regis Chicago

Miru from Chef Hisanobu Osaka will open first in the Spring 2023 followed by Tre Dita from Chef Evan Funke. Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is excited to reveal more details about the two restaurants that will be opening at the highly-anticipated St. Regis Chicago. The first restaurant, Miru from Executive Chef Hisanobu Osaka will open Spring 2023 in tandem with the hotel.

overlooks the Chicago River and Navy Pier. The Japanese restaurant will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The second restaurant, Tre Dita (pronounced Italian for three fingers, is a nod to the thickness of a properly cut bistecca Fiorentina that the restaurant will be serving from its open-hearth wood fired grill. The Tuscan Steakhouse is in collaboration with award-winning Chef Evan Funke (Felix, Mother Wolf) and will open in 2023.

Miru, Japanese for view, will showcase Chef Osaka’s unique take on Japanese cuisine and boasts two terraces and a dining room that — Lettuce.com

Private Label, Prepared Food Sales Rise

Foodservice and prepared food sales increased 9.3% for the year ending Aug. 27 over the same period the previous year, reaching $31.3 billion, according to FMI

– The Food Industry Association, with 82% of retailers and wholesalers indicating they would increase space for freshly prepared and ready-to-eat foods. Grocers also increased their private-label products this year, including Save Mart, which introduced its private-label premium ice cream, and Albertsons, which debuted a line of private-label wines.

Dunkin’ Cold Brew Concentrate

J.M. Smucker will roll out a cold brew liquid concentrate as part of its Dunkin’ coffee line next spring to meet growing demand for at-home specialty coffee preparation, said CEO Mark Smucker. The company has tripled revenue for the brand since taking ownership and expects Dunkin’ to emerge as a $1 billion brand by 2027, said Joseph Stanziano, senior vice president and general manager of coffee at J.M. Smucker.

—Katherine

Anchor Bar, home of the original, worldfamous Buffalo chicken wing since 1964, celebrated the grand opening of its 16th restaurant location in the Village of Oswego with many local dignitaries, family, and friends in attendance. Samm and Laura Dimech are the Franchisee Owners of the 1st Anchor Bar in Illinois located at 2440 Rt. 34 at Prairie Market. Pictured left are: Jonathan Henderson, Matt Kellogg, Troy Parlier, and Anchor bar owners Laura and Samm Dimech

GCC Halal Food and Beverage Market Forecasted to Hit $18.9 Billion in Five Years

GCC Halal Food and Beverage Market are expected to reach US$ 18.90 Billion in 2027 from US$ 10.96 Billion in 2021, expanding with a CAGR of 9.50% during 2022 (researchandmarkets.com). The demand for halal food by-products in the GCC region is mainly driven by many Muslims who follow Islamic Sariah regulations as part of their religious beliefs. Furthermore, the demand is being driven by the growing number of stringent regulatory frameworks that include required halal labeling and certification standards for food and drinks.

Furthermore, increased knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and trustworthiness afforded by halal food items, particularly among non-Muslims, is

boosting the industry across the Gulf Cooperation Council. In addition, a significant increase in the food retail sector and the increasing availability of halal food and beverages across various distribution channels are also driving market expansion. — Businesswire.com

What exactly, does Halal mean?

Halal food is a term used to describe a group of foods and beverages produced primarily under Islamic dietary laws. Alcohol, pig by-products, and animals that are dead before slaughtering or not slain in Allah's name are all deemed haram or unfit for eating, according to the law. Furthermore, these food items are packaged and stored in utensils that must be cleaned according to Islamic standards.

Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get — only with what you are expecting to give, which is everything.

Hepburn

CHEF PROFILE

Eddy Akel

Rosatis

3061 N. Barrington Rd. Hoffman Estates, IL 60192

Birthplace: Chicago suburbs.

Current Position: Owner/operator.

First Foodservice Job: Sir Nick’s Pizza delivery driver.

Favorite Food: Pizza and Italian.

Worst Part of Job: Staffing and reviews.

Favorite Food to Prepare: Pastas.

What part of the job gives the most pleasure: Seeing the smiles on the customers faces after they have had a great meal.

If you couldn’t be a chef, what would you be: Heart surgeon and because of my father, I always wanted to help him with his heart when he was around.

Best advice you ever got was...A U-Haul truck doesnt follow a hearse.

Where do you like to vacation? Somewhere sunny and relaxing. What do you enjoy most about FIN? The articles and knowledge from other industry experts.

Who was your greatest culinary influence? Gordon Ramsey.

Adorn Bar & Restaurant, the “New American” restaurant located within Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, announces the appointment of Richie Farina as Executive Chef.

“Chef Richie Farina’s remarkable Chicago culinary career and comprehensive knowledge make him an ideal leader of Adorn as we usher in a new year,” says Four Seasons Hotel Chicago General Manager Stephen Wancha. “Richie’s extraordinary finesse, imagination and dedication set the tone for the next iteration of dining experiences for our local and international guests. It is an honor to welcome Chef Richie Farina to the Four Seasons team.”

Adorn Bar & Restaurant will debut Chef Farina’s culinary vision this spring, which will include a tasting-menu experience. A preview of the upcoming tasting menu will be offered during the week of Valentine’s Day. Reservations available from Feb. 10-18, 2023.

Chef Farina brings more than two decades of culinary experience to his new role as Executive Chef of Adorn Bar & Restaurant. He was most recently the opening sous chef at two-Michelin-starred Ever, and previously served as lead line cook at Monteverde and executive chef at one-Michelinstarred Moto. In his new role, Chef Farina will oversee the culinary operations at Adorn Bar & Restaurant, including new menu ideation, procurement, personnel management and more for the upcoming tasting menu offering.

Adorn Names Farina Exec Chef

BY STONECARPET

Success of Coffee Brands

Dairy Sales Hinge on Flavor and Functionality

Dairy categories can leverage the shift to at-home consumption with indulgence-focused flavor innovation and by reclaiming dairy’s identity as an original functional food, stated Mintel executive Mimi Bonnett in T. Hasegawa’s Dairy Flavor Flash report. “Both dairy and dairy alternative categories must reclaim the ‘it does a body good’ messaging in order to compete with the increasing array of functional foods and drinks on the market,” the report stated.

– Source: FoodNavigator

options and meeting them across channels and drinking occasions, said David Rennie, head of Nestle Coffee Brands. The significant growth in cold coffee consumption among younger consumers will influence future innovation, added Rennie. – Source: FoodNavigator

Mondel z International reached a deal to sell its developed-market gum business in the U.S., Canada and Europe to Perfetti Van Melle Group, a European gum and confectionery maker, for $1.35 billion. Mondel z will continue to operate its gum business outside these markets. The snacking giant said the deal includes gum brands Trident, Dentyne, Stimorol, Hollywood, V6, Chiclets, Bubbaloo and Bubblicious in the U.S., Canada and Europe, as well as a handful of European candy brands. It also includes manufacturing facilities in Rockford, Illinois and Skarbimierz, Poland. Mondel z announced in May that it planned to divest its gum business in developed markets after completing a strategic review of the division.

– Source: Food Dive

Save On Alaska Pollock Wild Wings for Your Food Service Customers

High Liner Foodservice Alaska Pollock Wild Wings make the perfect bite-sized snack, which means they’re destined to become wildly popular on your menu. This features wild caught Pollock portions breaded with a blend of old-fashioned southern style herbs and spices. Each carefully portioned wing easily deep fries or bakes to golden crispy, tender flaky fish perfection in minutes. It’s a deliciously healthier version of this favorite, proving that great wings don’t have to be limited to just chicken. Now, you can get a $4 rebate per case through UPC. — To learn more, see the UPC ad on page 41 of this issue.

Focus Brands Accelerates Franchise Growth with Dual Branding as Future of QSR

Dual branding is the future of QSR, and with iconic brands and integrated concepts, Focus Brands, the parent company of Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Schlotzsky’s, is leading the charge with strong franchisee and consumer appeal. Today, the Focus Brands portfolio boasts 175-plus open dual branded units with at least 65 more in various stages of development across the country.

The Focus Brands portfolio brands have signed agreements to open more than 50 dual and tri-brand locations in the coming year, many of which include drive-thrus for added convenience as interest in dual branded franchise opportunities continues to surge.

About Two-Thirds of ‘Sandwich Generation’ Claim Stress Over Future Famial Financial Obligations

Parents have financial obligations for raising their children, with some estimates around $12,000 annually per child, but members of the “sandwich generation” are often financially supporting their own parent(s) as well.

A new survey shows that 66% of the sandwich generation: Americans who are raising or financially supporting children and also have at least one living parent age 65+ are either “very stressed” (29%) or “somewhat stressed” (37%) about affording their family’s financial obligations over the next 10 years. The Policygenius survey also found that more than half of the sandwich generation (52%) expect that supporting their parent(s) will cost just as much or even more than supporting their children over the next five years.

Our Purpose

•

•

•

• OSHA-Trained

• Hiring

•

•

Chicago, IL 800-921-9151

St. Louis, MO 800-783-0187

Minneapolis, MN 800-454-3441

Milwaukee, WI 414-281-5204

Indianapolis, IN 800-921-9151

Decatur, IL 800-783-0187

• Fast hirining.

Qualified Team

Are Different

According to ValuePenguin’s State of Auto Insurance in 2023 report, car Insurance rates are set to rise by 8.4%, the highest rate increase in 6 years. Among the 45 states expected to see premiums increase, Illinois has the largest jump at 17% followed by Arizona (15.6%) and New Hampshire (13.6%). American Society of Baking 2023 will gather, on Feb. 28-Mar. 2, at the Chicago Hilton 720 S. Michigan Ave representing all facets of the Baking Industry. This year’s theme is Resilience- Sustaining traditions & forging the future. Chicago Botanic Garden all-new Orchid Show is big, bold, and beautiful. Expect the unexpected and explore the brighter side of winter at the Orchid Show: Magnified. The show will be held Feb. 11-Mar 26,2023 at 1000 Lake Cook Rd. in Glencoe, Illinois. Congratulations to husband and wife team Franco & Patti Bruno on celebrating their 29th anniversary of Frantonio’s Italian Deli & Café located at 421 N. Northwest Hwy. in Barrington, Illinois. They specialize in homemade Italian delicacies including their homemade fresh mozzarella, Italian sausage, pastas and soups. Federal Supply USA located in Waukegan, Illinois has provided foodservice equipment, supplies, and service to both public and private institutions nationally for over 90 years. They are a woman-owned business operated by the 4th generation of the family that founded the company. KeHE Distributors headquartered in Naperville announced that as part of an ongoing succession process, Deb Conklin will become KeHE’s President & CEO on April 1, 2023 and Brandon Barnholt will move into the Executive Chairman role. Mr. Barnholt, has been the company’s President & CEO for

fifteen years and helped lead the company through a time of extraordinary growth. Music Fans - Marc Anthony Viviendo Tour will be performing at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois Feb. 24, 2023.

Marc Anthony is one of the most influential artists of his time and a true ambassador of Latin music and culture. The 2023 Chicago Golf Show presented by Chicago District Golf Association, Feb. 24-26, 2023 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont—the only place to get everything you need for the first tee time of the season! The 2023 Joint IAMP/IMPPA Illinois Meat Processors Convention and Trade Show, “Meat on the Midway,” to be held on February 23-25, 2023 at the Keller Convention Center in Effingham, IL. The American Red Cross will be opening a new location at 622 E. Golf Rd. American Red Cross will be investing $1 million renovating the 4,475 square foot property to continue its mission of preventing and alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies. The opening date will soon be announced.

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association, producer of the Chicago Auto Show, will be held at McCormick Place. The 2023 show, Feb. 11-20, is positioned to be the most experiential Chicago Auto Show yet, offering outdoor rideand-drives as well as a handful of brand-new indoor test tracks. The St. Charles Business Alliance is proud to announce the return of the 13th Annual St. Charles Restaurant Week which will take place from Feb. 20 -24, 2023. The goal of the St. Charles Restaurant Week is to encourage individuals to dine at local restaurants to help gain exposure and attract new patrons through their dining experience.

When US Water Heating Solutions wanted customized barstools for their new Arlington Heights, IL training center, they worked with Chicago based Trendler Seating to meet their needs. The two fine suppliers meet at a recent Shmoozefest event which is a great example of the best companies in the business working together. The next Shmoozefest networking, educational, tasing event is scheduled for Tuesday March 7th. Be sure to attend to meet the fine people at Trendler and US Water Heating Solutions, both of whom are sponsors of this event.

First Installment Cook County Property Taxes Due Date Pushed to April 3

Cook County property owners will have an extra month to pay their First Installment property taxes this year, and their bills are already available online.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed HB 5189 into law last month making Monday, April 3, 2023, the new due date. Property taxes are mailed twice a year. First Installment bills are usually due on March 1, and are 55% of the previous year’s total amount.

“Delaying a month is the right thing to do in order to give taxpayers some breathing room after Second Installment bills were late last year,” said Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. “Many people continue to struggle financially amid high inflation.”

First Installment bills will be mailed out in late February or early March but bills are available right now at cookcountytreasurer. com for payment or viewing.

To make a payment or download a copy of your tax bill, visit: www.cookcountytreasurer.com.

• Select the blue box labeled “Pay Online for Free”

• Search by property address or enter your Property Index Number

• There is no fee if you pay from your bank account

• Cookcountytreasurer.com payments made before 11:59 p.m. on April 3 will be recorded as on time.

After School Matters Teens Collab with Luxbar, Kellogg

After School Matters culinary teens recently partnered with Luxbar, a Gibson’s partner, and Kellogg to prepare and present their winning plant-based Chi-rizo burrito recipe from their summer cooking challenge.

The aspiring chefs were led by their culinary mentor Chef Dan Huebschmann, Gibson’s corporate chef, and the recipe was featured on Luxbar’s menu for diners to enjoy for a limited time. Part of the proceeds from each plant-based Chi-rizo burrito went towards supporting After School Matters and their teens.

About After School Matters

After School Matters is a nonprofit organization providing world class, after-school, and summer opportunities to Chicago public high school teens to explore their passions and develop their talents, while gaining critical skills for work, college, and beyond. After School Matters programs are project-based, led by industry experts, and provide a pathway to progress in skills development and independence. Teens earn a stipend while participating in programs in the arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Over the span of three decades, After School Matters has engaged more than 350,000 teens throughout the city of Chicago. www.afterschoolmatters.org.

Flexforce Expands in Midwest

Schnuck Markets is rolling out its Flexforce program to more locations in Illinois, Indiana and Missouri after a successful pilot of the program last fall. The option allows employees to choose the shifts and locations that work best with their schedules and receive notifications about open shifts.

– Source: Progressive Grocer

Plant-Based Lamb Debuts in U.S.

Plant-based meat alternative maker Black Sheep Foods will use $12.3 million in new funding to grow production of its plant-based lamb alternative. Black Sheep Foods’ lamb is now on menus at some California restaurants and the company plans to expand distribution to eateries around the country.

– TechCrunch

Walmart Offers Text -to- Shop

Walmart is rolling out its Text-to-Shop feature to all U.S. locations after introducing a beta version last March. Shoppers can add items to their cart by text or type in "reorder" to access frequently ordered items before checking out on the app or by text.

– Winsight Grocery Business

Target Adapts Local Trends

Target is introducing a new store design to allow locations to better tailor their products to the communities they serve and further personalize the shopping experience. The retailer will debut the features at the majority of the 30 new stores and more than half of the 200 store remodels it has slated for this year.

– Modern Retail

BOOKSHELF

100

Publisher: National Geographic ISBN-13: 978-1426221675

Grab your passport and get ready to explore 100 cities around the world. This informative travel guide – the next in National Geographic’s blockbuster 5,000 Ideas series – takes you from skyscraper-filled concrete jungles to coastal urban oases. You’ll find hot tips for the best sights, bites, museums, and more for each location, as well as practical planning advice for when to go and what to expect when you arrive. And there’s something in these pages for every traveler: history buff, art lover, foodie, beach bum, or anyone in between. Take a dim sum tour through San Francisco’s Chinatown; hop a bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto to capture two of Japan’s best cities in one vacation; discover the hidden historical gems in bustling Mumbai; bathe in the sun on Sydney’s beaches; temple hop your way through Bangkok and shop its floating markets; stand on the edge of the world in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city; take a walk through art history in Florence; or go on an urban safari in Nairobi. Filled with expert tips, bonus side trip suggestions, and tons of innovative activities, this is an inspirational and practical keepsake for any kind of globetrotter.

Grease and oil removal, pumping, jetting

Sirk Rejoins Marriner Marketing

Marriner Marketing Communications, a leading branding and activation agency in the food, beverage and hospitality industries, welcomes back Danielle Sirk as Associate Creative Director, Copy. Sirk’s professional career includes helping build brands that resonate with target audiences and creating campaigns that achieve measurable results. She also has a wellrounded perspective after working in agency environments and for a branded food company.

CES Nationwide Acquires Ramar Supply

CES Family of Companies continues to grow. The acquisition of Ramar Supply provides foothold in the Restaurant Equipment and Supplies market in Chicagoland.

Hodgkins, Il. Chicagoland Equipment & Supply (CES), a portfolio company of Cooper Management, LLC, and a leading supplier of Equipment, Supplies, and Service to the food industry, has acquired Ramar Supply, a leading seller of Food Equipment and supplies to restaurants. The transaction closed on December 31st, 2022, and an official announcement was made to Ramar’s employees at the Company’s Burbank headquarters January 3rd. The acquisition is a continuation of CES’ efforts to expand its Food Industry offering. Cook M&A (cookma.com), PFS (pfs-law.com), and Miller Cooper (millercooper. com) were advisors to the transaction.

“Ramar Supply has been a staple for the restaurant industry in Chicagoland. Their lines of equipment and supplies compliment the business we have in the CES family today and greatly expand our footprint in the Restaurant space. We are honored to welcome the Ramar team to our CES Family of Companies,” said Tyler Jeffrey, CEO of CES.

“We are very excited for the Ramar employees as the combination with CES creates opportunities for growth. The product lines in both equipment and supplies at CES are a great fit with what we’ve built here at Ramar Supply. I’m also very excited to bring service to our Ramar customer base through the CES service network that includes 50+ technicians.” said Mark Raber, president Ramar Supply.

The acquisition of Ramar Supply fits into CES’ strategy to be the leading seller of Equipment, Supplies, and Service to the Food Industry. Through the acquisition, CES grows its network of service technicians. Together both CES and Ramar will expand its offerings to existing customers allowing them a one stop provider of Equipment, Supplies, and Service.

Elliot Wheeler, Chief Investment Officer of Cooper Management LLC, said “We are thrilled to welcome Mark, Sherri, Kathy, and the entire Ramar team to the CES family. We remain steadfast in growing the business to create a special community for customers, vendors, and most all, our talented employees. The acquisition of Ramar is a continuation of this strategy and our longterm vision.”

The special guests for our March 7 Shmoozefest are Chef Tony Priolo (co-owner, Piccolo Sogno) and Chef Sarah Stegner (co-owner, Prairie Grass Cafe) who were instrumental in gaining the support of over 70 Chicago chefs, resulting in an event which raised over $680,000 to aid the crises in Ukraine. The event filled the massive Navy Pier Ballroom. Join us as we learn how Chefs Tony and Sarah pulled off this massive initiative and how it has helped their businesses and careers. Engage buyers and those intimately connected to our local $34 billion dollar market by Co-Sponsoring our events. Join 200 to 400 local industry professionals who attend Shmoozefest to network, learn, sample products and meet with top vendor co-sponsors in a fun, positive MINI-TRADE SHOW environment. Proactively put a spotlight on your business, your brand and people, to invite quality face-to-face conversations with key food business professionals by being a sponsor. Call today to reserve your co-sponsorship: 847-602-9620.

Event Co-Sponsors

Poke Sauce

It’s Time to Poke (pronounced “poh-kay”)

Made with Kikkoman Soy Sauce, Kikkoman Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce, Kikkoman Sesame Oil and premium spices, it’s a one-step wonder that adds umami, rich savory flavor, and a tangy, spicy kick to fish, shrimp, veggies and even grilled or roasted meat and poultry. And because it’s preblended, there’s no guess work or clean up. Just pour, toss and plate.

Easy Menu Ideas

Classic Ahi Poke: Cut fresh, raw sushi-grade ahi tuna into cubes and toss with Kikkoman Poke Sauce. If desired, add toasted sesame seeds and minced scallions. Serve in a shallow bowl, over rice, if desired.

Pokado: Prepare tuna poke as directed above. Serve in a halved avocado, garnished with a bit of Japanese seaweed salad and sprinkle with shichimi togarashi (a spicy Japanese pepper-sesame seed blend).

Poke Tacos: Prepare Tuna Poke as directed above. Serve in crispy wonton shells (made by frying wonton wrappers in a taco-frying basket); drizzle with Kikkoman Wasabi Sauce.

Poke Steak Kabobs: Marinate steak cubes in Kikkoman Poke sauce. Thread on skewers with red bell peppers, red onions and grill to desired doneness.

Poke Mayo: Blend Kikkoman Poke Sauce with mayonnaise. Use as a condiment for fries, fried seafood, Asian-style burgers and sandwiches. Or thin with a splash of Kikkoman Rice Vinegar to make a creamy salad dressing.

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”

– Charles M. Schulz

Accurate Scale Celebrates 32nd Anniversary

Accurate Scale Company, the food industry's leading source for scales and weighing equipment used in the food industry, is celebrating its 32nd year of business in 2023. To celebrate, the company is offering special pricing in stock scales which are available for immediate delivery or installation. According to Dean Ciluffo, owner of the company, “We have the Midwest’s largest inventory of scales for dry, frozen, refrigerated and wet product production that work independently or as part of a manufacturing line. Our inventory of scales for food plants helps business owners gain confidence that the weights they are receiving are accurate, which may help reduce

theft or the chances of being overcharged. We've increased our inventory of scale parts, so that we can always keep our customers up and running” The company has a complete showroom and service training center located 4500 South 1st Avenue in Lyons Illinois.

TUCKEY’S TIPS

By Lauren N. Tuckey, Esq., Tuckey Law, LLC

Updates in Hospitality Law

National Labor Relations Board proposes to rescind and replace the “Joint Employer Status Under the National Labor Relations Act” in a way that every employer must know.

Under the proposed rule announced September 6, 2022, two or more employers would be considered joint employers if they “share or codetermine those matters governing employees’ essential terms and conditions of employment,” such as wages, benefits and other compensation, work and scheduling, hiring and discharge, discipline, workplace health and safety, supervision, assignment, and work rules. The Board proposes to consider both direct evidence of control and evidence of reserved and indirect control over these essential terms and conditions of employment.

Why does this matter?

Lauren N. Tuckey

While this may sound like legal technicalities that only l awyers care about, joint employer status has very real-world implications for employers.

If two entities are joint employers, both entities:

• Must collectively bargain with the employee’s union if the joint employee is represented by one

• Are potentially liable for unfair labor practices committed by the other; and

• Are subject to union picketing or other economic pressure (that would otherwise be secondary and unlawful) if there is a labor dispute.

The Board accepted comments on the proposal through December and will announce its decision to adopt the proposal after review is complete.

Tuckey Law, LLC covers all of your legal needs for opening and operating your food, beverage and hospitality business.

– Contact Lauren at lauren@tuckeylaw.com or 312-701-2200.

Over forty years of serving our customers – so you can serve yours.

National News

Hard Rock Completes Acquisition of The Mirage Hotel & Casino. The 3,044-room casino resort will continue to operate as The Mirage Hotel & Casino until the renovation and rebranding of the property to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas is complete. The process is anticipated to take an extended period, but ultimately will dramatically reimagine every aspect of the resort and change the Las Vegas skyline with the addition of a Guitar-shaped hotel tower adjacent to Las Vegas Blvd.

Cambria Hotels , an upscale brand franchised by Choice Hotels International, Inc., continues its expansion throughout New England with the grand opening of its newest hotel in Connecticut: the Cambria Hotel New Haven University Area. Capital Tacos, the emerging corner taco shop turned nationally-awarded Tex-Mex restaurant franchise, is gearing up for a period of unprecedented growth. 2022 was a year that exceeded the brand’s expressed expectations and left it ready to establish franchised and corporate brick-and-mortar flagships in states throughout the country in 2023. Clean Juice, the nation’s first and only USDA-certified organic juice and food bar franchise, was named to Newsweek and Statista Inc.’s elite list of America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains 2023. Presently, Clean Juice has 203 store units within its system, with 127 opened for business and 76 in development. The culinary tourism market size is slated to grow by $126.28 billion from 2022 to 2027: A descriptive analysis of customer landscape, vendor assessment, and market dynamics – Technavio. Great Lakes Ice Cream & Fast Food Association Trade Show will be held Feb. 10-11, 2023 at Kellogg Arena 1 McCamly Sq. Place in Battle Creek Michigan. Products, services, and ideas presented at the show will target the frozen dessert and foodservice industry. Food Processing Expo 2023 food returns to Sacramento, California Feb. 14-15, 2023 to the recently renovated Convention Center now called the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. The expo is the largest event of its kind in the state, bringing together thousands of food processors and allied industry members. Kenosha Restaurant

Week is a nine-day celebration of their community’s delicious dining scene. It will be going on from Feb.18-26,2023 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Minneapolis St Paul International Airport will open its third Delta Sky Club in 2023 in the renovated Concourse G. The multi-level Sky Club will have a four-season outdoor deck and set a new benchmark in Delta lounges. more seating and art exhibit space. Oxford Capital Group, LLC announces lease sig for Sullivan’s Steakhouse in The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. This will be the first Michigan location of the classic American steakhouse concept to open in prime ground floor space of the hotel by mid-2023. Sweet Chick, home of the hottest chicken and waffles opened a new flagship location in Union Square NYC. Sweet Chick pivots to fast-casual business model that doesn’t sacrifice hospitality. The new storefront represents a new prototype flagship for the company as the brand embarks with a Fast Casual restaurant business model. The first Missouri Whataburger restaurant Arrived at 1371 U.S. Highway 60 in Republic, Missouri. Whataburger plans to open four additional Springfield-area restaurants in 2023 at: 1851 W. Marler Lane, Ozark, Mo. 3880 W. Sunshine, Springfield, Mo. 2355 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, Mo. and 401 N. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, Mo. Unlimeat , a leading plantbased meat brand from Korea, is accelerating its entry into the US market, and has announced that they will begin selling in 1,500 Albertsons stores nationwide. The products to be launched include plant-based Korean BBQ and two flavors of pulled pork, which are the company’s most popular products.

CHEF PROFILE

200 N Field Dr. Lake Forest, IL 60045

Birthplace: Champaign, Il

Current Position:

Executive Chef.

Favorite Food: Ramen.

Awards/Honors: I recently got invited to the Disciples Escoffier!

Memorable Customers: We made an arrangement for a bride and she loved the service and food that we provided that day so much that she started sobbing.

Worst Part of Job: Being away from the kitchen!

Favorite Food to Prepare: I love making bread! It always excites me to see the end result..

Most Humorous Kitchen Mishap: I slipped on the water droplets of an ice sculpture and successfuly knocked a few tables over on my way to safety.

What part of the job gives the most pleasure: When guests are happy with the service and food that we provide. Hearing them share how amazing they thought the meal was is always the best.

If you couldn’t be a chef, what would you be: I would probably be a lawyer.

Best advice you ever got was...Work hard. Where do you like to vacation? I love the beaches in Vieques Puerto Rico.

Who was your greatest culinary influence?

My great grandmother, she was a better chef than I could ever hope to be!

Christian Alejandro

Oaken Bistro & Bar

AROUND CHICAGO

With VALERIE MILLER

For the ultimate Valentine’s Day, celebrate at The Peninsula Chicago, named ‘The Most Romantic Hotel in Chicago by USA Today in December 2022. Guests can customize their celebration with a selection of dining, spa, and guestroom offerings.

Romantic Dining in The Lobby Reserve a three-course dinner in The Lobby restaurant for the perfect romantic celebration this Valentine’s Day. This special menu is available on Monday, February 13th and Tuesday, February 14th, 2023 and includes an Oyster amuse, followed by choice of Salmon Carpaccio or Roasted King Oyster Mushrooms for the first course. Entrée choices include Angus Tenderloin, or Chilean Seabass or Black Truffle and Butternut Squash Risotto. Dessert rounds out the romantic dinner with choice of Strawberry Obsession Cake or Raspberry Hazelnut Tart. The à la carte menu will also be available.

Celebrate Romance in Shanghai Terrace

Those interested in an Asian-inspired dinner can reserve the special five-course set menu in Shanghai Terrace, with choice of entrée offered Friday, February 10th through Sunday February 12th, 2023. Start with Chef Elmo Han’s appetizer duo of Prawn and Peking Duck, followed by traditional dim sum trio: Lobster and Chicken, Rose Flower and Vegetable dumplings; Chilean Seabass in Pumpkin soup is the second course. Entrée choices include Steamed Lobster in Coriander Soy Sauce or Beef Tenderloin. Complete the romantic dinner with Caramelia Mousse for dessert. The à la carte menu will be available as well.

Sweet Treats at Pierrot Gourmet

Celebrating Pierrot Gourmet’s first Valentine’s Day since re-opening, guests can dine in or carry out these romantic-inspired desserts: Passion Fruit Rose Entremets, Chocolate Raspberry Rose Crunch, and Strawberry Obsession Heart.

Specialty Cocktail at Z Bar

Love birds can canoodle over Z Bar’s specialty cocktail, ‘Never Too Late,’ featuring Sipsmith V.J.O.P. Gin, St. Germain Elderflower liquor, garnished with raspberry, lychee, lemon. This cocktail will be offered February 7th, through February 12th, 2023.

Pamper Your Partner (and Yourself)

Couples looking to relax together this Valentine’s Day holiday can indulge in a range of treatments at The Peninsula Spa or guests may choose to reserve in-room massages. Gift certificates also make for a wonderful expression of love.

Celebrate Romance Package

Complete your romantic escape with an overnight stay in a suite. Reserve the Celebrate Romance package and enjoy daily American breakfast for two, a bottle of Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries upon arrival and rose petals at turndown. This package is offered February 10th through 14th, 2023, based on availability. To make reservations or for more information on additional packages, please visit peninsula.com/chicago.

The Peninsula Chicago is a Five Star, Five Diamond hotel located on the “Magnificent Mile” at 108 East Superior Street (at Michigan Avenue), within the city’s premier shopping district. The 339-guest room hotel opened in 2001 and features three distinctive restaurants, Z Bar – a rooftop lounge, and a world class spa.

McDonald’s Tests System that Could Change the Fast Food Industry

At one McDonald’s location in Texas, robots are now serving up Big Macs. Amid a growing desire for fast food giants to automate their processes, the first mostly robot-run McDonald’s restaurant is currently being tested in Fort Worth, Texas. At this location, there are no human cashiers in sight. Even the restaurant itself is smaller and has no seating, designed to serve the grab-and-go crowd, rather than sit-down diners. Upon entry, digital tills take customer orders and robots push food through on conveyor belts in designated pick-up areas. Customers can order through the drive-thru, the company’s mobile app or the touch screen kiosks in-store.

– Source: globalnews.ca/news

dedicated Vegan and Gluten Free Menus, as well as keto and vegetarian selections.

Anchoring Moretti’s pizza menu is the Classic Deep Dish, with its layers of extra sausage, extra cheese and vine ripened tomato sauce with a formula dating back to 1959. Every deep dish pizza features Moretti’s “crispy cheese crust” an original family recipe unique to Moretti’s. The thin crust pizza features a house made fully flavored tomato sauce with a generous portion of toppings.

Moretti’s pizza was voted “Best Pizza” in the largest Chicago area diners poll, “Daily Herald “Best of the Best” 2021 and 2022.

The Morretti's chain vis owned and operated by Ala Carte entertainment, a local chain operating other concepts including Finn McCool’s, Drink nightclub, Chandler's at the Schaumburg golf course, Buddy's Bites N Brews , Famous Freddy's Roadhouse and LP’s Taphouse.

Ala Carte Entertainment has always had a reputation of supporting local suppliers and helping to keep the ecosystem of the Chicagoland food industry strong. Along with the great leadership that the Hoffman family provides, they've had many successes do in large part to their senior executive leadership team which includes Jim Earley, Mike

Abate, Billy McFall and others.

“Over the years, Food Industry News has consistently held events at various Ala Carte Entertainment properties because of their ability to execute, and because of the excellent service and follow through of their team,” commented Cary Miller, VP of Food Industry News. The next free, industrywide Shmoozefest networking, tasting and educational event is scheduled on Tuesday March 7th at Moretti’s in Edison Park. Please Join us for another great event and experience Moretti’s hospitality for yourself!

Moretti’s continued from cover

Left to right: Fred, Mark and Dean Hoffman

Ruggiero Seafood, Inc. PO Box 5369 Newark, NJ 07105info@ruggieroseafood.comwww.ruggieroseafood.com

NGA Show Coming to Vegas

The NGA Show - Feb. 26-28, 2023 in Las Vegas will offer a brand-new education offering, The Technology Summit, offering grocery retailers a look at technology from multiple perspectives. “The NGA Show is unique in that it consistently provides retailers and wholesalers with the cutting-edge experts and knowledge necessary to adapt and thrive in an industry that is constantly changing,” said Greg Fewrrara, NGA president and CEO. “We continue that tradition to our 2023 event by bringing a unique look at technology not found elsewhere, presented in conjunction with our respected partner, MorningNewsBeat.com.”

New and Emerging Drivers of Food and Dining Trends

The burgeoning influence of Generation Alpha, whose oldest members will start hitting their teens this year, will have a growing effect on food trends in the coming years, Datassential’s Samantha Des Jardins writes. Other factors expected to drive food trends in 2023 include artificial intelligence, greater risk-taking with menus and a broadening of the definition of “third place” as more people shift to working from home.

– Source: Datassential

The National Parks Cookbook

Author: Linda Ly

Publisher: Harvard Common Press ISBN-13: 978-0760375112

Since the world’s first-ever national park: Yellowstone, was established, national parks have fed millions of hungry visitors in their historic dining rooms and restaurants.

From Acadia’s famous puffy popovers to Zion’s loaded Navajo tacos, guests have long enjoyed a range of unique regional cuisines, meals made from foraged foods, and gourmet menus whipped up by celebrated chefs, even in the middle of nowhere.

Who can forget that piping-hot platter of Moose Drool–Braised Bison Short Ribs in Yellowstone, or the massive slab of Mile-High Blackberry Ice Cream Pie in Shenandoah? Maybe you keep dreaming about the Huckleberry Margaritas from Grand Teton (and the spectacular sunset that accompanied them on the deck of Jackson Lake Lodge), or you still order the same boysenberry pie from Yosemite that you remember from your childhood.

Now you can re-create and enjoy these legendary recipes at home with The National Parks Cookbook!

Part cookbook and part escapist lifestyle book filled with stunning travel photography and national park history, The National Parks Cookbook features recipes from popular national park destinations in the west, east, north, and south. You’ll find signature dishes from the top 10 national parks in the country, including: classics like the Grand Canyon Hiker’s Stew from Phantom Ranch and the Yosemite Firefall Cocktail from The Ahwahnee Bar; original recipes inspired by park flora and fauna such as Lingonberry Brie en Croute from Denali; and local culinary specialties like Fried Fish and Fungi with Creole Sauce from the Virgin Islands.

Take a food-driven tour through the parks and take your taste buds on an adventure with memorable recipes from breakfast to dinner, appetizers to dessert, and everything in between!

BEST PRICES ON FRESH PRODUCE SINCE 1924

Discover why generations of chefs and restaurant owners have relied on us for quality, service and value. Our recent expansion allows us to deliver thousands of products: everything you need to support your fast food or family restaurant.

Offering a Full Line of:

Owned and operated by persons with disabilities.

New Executive Hires for KFC

KFC U.S. announced new executive changes recently, according to a press release emailed to Restaurant Dive. The chicken chain is promoting Ben Dubost to chief development officer and Kate Ward to chief legal officer. Both executives have worked for KFC for years, and have experience supporting development and franchising. The Yum Brands subsidiary has seen considerable shakeups at the leadership level since Sabir Sami succeeded Tony Lowings as CEO.

– Restaurant Dive

According to a survey from U.S. News & World Report , for the sixth consecutive year, the Mediterranean Diet takes the No. 1 spot for the Best Diet Overall, having emphasis on eating a lot of fruits, vegetables, olive oil and fish and a focus on diet quality rather than a single nutrient or food group.

Atlantis Paradise Island, in the Bahamas, announces Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival taking place March 15-19, 2023.

All-star talent Duff Goldman, Alex Guarnaschelli, JJ Johnson, Aarón Sánchez, Alon Shaya, Michael White and Andrew Zimmern host the inaugural Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival.

Eggland’s Best eggs have been named “The Official Egg” for America’s Test Kitchen (ATK) and ATK Kids. As an official sponsor of America’s Test Kitchen and ATK Kids, Eggland’s Best will be the exclusive egg throughout all ATK and ATK Kids content including TV, magazines, books, digital and social media. Groundhog Day in Woodstock, Illinois—annual prognostication is held at 7am, Feb. 2nd at Woodstock Square to see Woodstock Willie emerge from his tree trunk home. If he sees his shadow, it means there will be six more weeks of winter and if he doesn’t see his shadow, it means we will have an early Spring. This is their re-enactment of the Groundhog Day ceremony that as a weatherman, Bill Murray reported on; over and over again. That scene from the movie was filmed right there on the Woodstock Square. Indiana Pacers Courtside Club recently opened at Indy Airport. Pacers-themed restaurant brings hometown-team flavor, experience to Indy food scene The Indiana Pacers Courtside Club menu features basketball and Pacer-themed food, including breakfast, and offers a wide selec -

tion of tap beer, cocktails and classic American fare. Michigan has more than 6,500 snowmobile trails and one of the most extensive systems of interconnected trails in the United States. The state also boasts a varied terrain, which includes national forests and 11,000 frozen lakes. RestStopsAhead is a mobile app for road travelers. It alerts drivers to the average daily crowd size of rest stops located ahead along the route. Crowded rest stops increase the chances of contracting airborne viruses such as COVID-19 and RSV. The 1-800-FLOWERS. COM, Inc. Valentine’s Day 2023 Look Book offers customers an inspirational preview of meaningful expressions from across the company’s family of brands. Making it effortless for shoppers to leave a long-lasting impression on loved ones, this annual guide showcases a curated assortment of new and differentiated products, along with classic and one-of-a-kind gifts. Valentine’s Day commonly depicts Cupid, the Roman god of love along with hearts—where traditionally the seat of emotion is found. Traditional Valentine’s Day gifts include jewelry, candy and flowers, particularly red roses, a symbol of beauty and love. Vegas is the wedding capital of the United States with about 4 percent of all U.S. weddings taking place there each year, more than any other state in the country. Maybe it’s because they have no waiting period and you can get married by in a variety of crazy themed ceremonies. Visalia California made history becoming the country’s first Certified Autism Destination. Recent studies conducted by Autism Travel show that 87% of parents with an autistic child do not travel, but 93% would be more likely to if autism certified options were available.

Chips Ahoy! announces the launch of a new cookie variety: Chewy Confetti Cake Cookies. Inspired by the brand’s upcoming 60th birthday celebration, Chips Ahoy! is bringing the happy to everyday with its new confetti cake-flavored chewy cookies with colorful rainbow sprinkles. Chips Ahoy! Chewy Confetti Cake Cookies will be available in stores nationwide and are sure to make every day feel like a celebration.

Stroopwafels Now in the US

The number one selling premium cookie in the Netherlands are Stroopwafels, and now it’s time for America to get a taste of what all the excitement is about. Stroopwafels are available in regular, gluten-free/organic and in vegan/organic. Who we are? We are Dutch Waffle Company. We immigrated to the United States because it is our passion to provide the best Stroopwafel there is. The ones you buy at the stores now are mostly produced in the Netherlands, shipped overseas and going through customs. This process takes anywhere from four to six months before they end up in the stores in the US. We started in November of 2019 and our business keeps growing because people value our quality, freshness and fast response.

What is a Stroopwafel? A soft crispy wafer cookie filled with gooey caramel.

When should it be eaten? Breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee break, snack-time, sporting, fishing, hunting, school trip etc. How should it be eaten? Straight out of the package, warmed up over a hot beverage, with ice cream, as a s’more, and as small snack.

Anything else? Be creative with a Stroopwafel. It’s a fun cookie! Include it in recipes and top it with ice cream. Use it as a base to make party snacks or give-aways!

Where are they sold? Supermarkets, coffee shops, gift shops, vending machines, hotels, B&B, ice cream shops, C-stores. For more information, call: 574-312-4578.

Attention Readers: Try these delicious products at our March 7 Shmoozefest, and discover what the Dutch have known for centuries; they are delicious!

SATISFIED CUSTOMERS INCLUDE:

Buona Beef + Four Corners Tavern Group + Bravo Restaurants + Gino’s East + Pompei Bakery Turano Bakery + Chicago Pastry + Phil Stefani Restaurants + Scooby’s Drive-In + Devanco Foods Angelo Caputos + Brookhaven Marketplace + Gene & Georgetti’s + Burrito Parilla + Taco Bell Mission Barbecue + Starbucks + Chipotle + Paisan’s Pizza + Jim’s Original Lucca Osteria & Bar + Rosati’s Pizza + Ala Carte Entertainment Group

“People who love to eat are always the best people.”

— Julia Child

Carnival Cruise Line Names Emeril Lagasse Chief Culinary Officer

Carnival Cruise Line announced that renowned chef and restauranteur Emeril Lagasse will serve as its Chief Culinary Officer. A restaurant concept created by Lagasse, Emeril’s Bistro, is already popular on two of Carnival’s most innovative ships, Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, and Carnival also announced that

Carnival Jubilee will feature an Emeril’s Bistro as well when it arrives in Galveston, Texas in December 2023.

Tech Forecasts Among Top Trends

Technology plays a starring role in many restaurant industry trend forecasts for the coming year as eateries look to tech innovations to boost efficiency and win customer loyalty. Artificial intelligence tools may help restaurants cope with the ongoing labor shortage, according to Datassential, and companies including Checkers & Rally’s are using AI to automate functions like taking phone and drive-thru orders.

– Source: Restaurant Hospitality

Post Office Releases Pet-Themed Stamps

The U.S. Postal Service will honor America’s love affair with beloved canine and feline pets with the issuance of its new Love 2023 Forever Stamps. New Love Forever Stamp features puppy and kitten with front paws resting atop a big heart.

Mars Buys Whole-Fruit Snack Brand

Trü Frü

Mars, Incorporated, a family-owned, global leader in confectionery, snacking, food, and pet care products and services announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Trü Frü, a high-growth, betterfor-you, whole-fruit snacking brand from its founders and management team. Trü Frü's innovative, high-quality and unique snacks are made from real fruit and immersed in premium chocolate. The snacks are available in both a frozen and shelf-stable format across the U.S.

Starving for more online

Let us show you how we have brought web success to hundreds of companies in the food industry.

Web Design & Development

ACCOUNTANTS

Apple Growth Partners Page 45 224-585-3315

ADVERTISING

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

AIR CONDITIONING-SYSTEMS CLEANING

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

AIR FILTERS-SALES & SERVICE

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

AIR PURIFICATION SYSTEMS

Zink Filtration 800-492-7400

ARCHITECTS

Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100

ARIEL LIFTS

Voss Equipment 708-596-7000

ASIAN FOOD PRODUCTS

Kikkoman Sales USA Page 19 630-954-1244

ASSOCIATIONS

Illinois Restaurant Association Page 24 312-787-4000

United Purchasing Co Page 41 630-833-2713

GARC 847-824-6941

Wisconsin Restaurant Association 608-216-2809

ATM MACHINES

Top Shelf Amusements 847-980-6777

ATTORNEYS

Judd Lofchie & Associates Page 26 630-236-3600

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

Laner Muchin 312-467-9800

AUCTIONS

Rick Levin & Associates Page 03 312-440-2000

AWNINGS & CANOPIES

Chesterfield Awnings Page 06 773-239-1511

AWNINGS - SALES & SERVICE

Thatcher Oaks Awnings 630-833-5700

BAGS-CUSTOM PRINTED

Bulldog Packaging 630-458-1152

BAKERS-WHOLESALE

Il Mulino di Valenzano Bakery Page 42 847-671-5216

Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 23 708-547-5969

Eli’s Cheesecakes 773-736-7417

Ideal Baker 773-631-6897

JR Dessert Bakery 773-465-6733

BAKERY MIXES

Jiffy Foodservice 800-727-2460

BAKERY PRODUCTION TRAINING

Sweet Bee Pastry Consulting 847-828-4812

BAKERY-PRODUCTS

Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 44 773-801-1600

Instantwhip Chicago Page 15 773-235-5588

BAKLAVA

Libanais Sweets 847-329-5060

BANNERS & POSTERS

Accurate Printing 708-824-0058

BAR STOOLS

Chicago Booth Page 06 773-378-8400

Trendler Inc Page 45 773-255-4407

Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

BAR SUPPLIES

Ramar Supply Co Page 16 708-233-0808

BATCH FREEZERS

Kool Technologies Page 08 630-483-2256

BBQ SAUCE

Ken’s Foods 800-633-5800

BBQ SAUCE- RUBS & SEASONINGS

Pork Mafia Inc Page 08 312-543-5368

BEEF

New S B L Inc Page 32 773-376-8280

BEER GAS

info@americaneagle.com 877.WEBNOW.1 (877.932.6691)

MacCARB Page 28 877-427-2499

BEVERAGE DISPENSING-EQUIPMENT

United Fast Food & Beverage 847-616-0711

BEVERAGES

Lifestyle Beverages Page 41 630-941-7000

BOOTHS

Chicago Booth Page 06 773-378-8400

Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

BOOTHS-UPHOLSTERERS

Chicago Booth Page 06 773-378-8400

BREAD & ROLLS

Il Mulino di Valenzano Bakery Page 42 847-671-5216

Ideal Bakery 773-631-6897

BREADS - CONTRACT BAKING

Ideal Bakery 773-631-6897

BUSINESS BROKERS

John Moauro/Realty Executives 708-361-1150

Nick Dibrizzi/Coldwell Bankers 708-562-9328

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Ted

BUTTER-CLARIFIED

815-761-8334

Danish Maid Butter Co Page 18 773-731-8787

BUTTER-PREPORTIONED-WHIPPED

Danish Maid Butter Co Page 18 773-731-8787

BUYING GROUPS/CO-OPS

United Purchasing Co Page 41 630-833-2713

GARC 847-824-6941

CAKES & DESSERTS

Chicago Sweet Connection Page 25 773-283-4430

Eli’s Cheesecake 773-736-7417

CALAMARI

Fisherman’s Pride Page 27 800-543-2110

CANNOLI & CANNOLI PRODUCTS

Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 23 708-547-5969

CARPET CLEANING

Sexton Group Floor Care Page 10 847-827-1188

CARRY OUT PACKAGING

Bulldog Packaging 630-458-1152

CARRYOUT & CATERING PACKAGING

Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688

CASH & CARRY OUTLETS

Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 44 773-801-1600

Angelo Caputo’s Fresh Markets 630-514-1338

CHAIRS

Trendler Inc Page 45 773-255-4407

CHAIRS-COMMERCIAL

Chicago Booth Page 06 773-378-8400 Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

CHEESECAKES

Eli’s Cheesecakes 773-736-7417

CHICKEN-PROGRAMS

FSI/Foodservice Solutions 847-719-6088

CHILI

Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) 773-278-7800

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

CLEANING PRODUCTS

C-Soap/CSI 888-908-5600 SuperClean 847-361-0289 CO2

MacCARB Page 28 877-427-2499

COFFEE

Anno Coffee Page 08 312-927-6684

COFFEE BEANS - GREEN

Anno Coffee Page 08 312-927-6684

COFFEE ROASTERS

Tec Foods Inc Page 14 773-638-5310

I Love My Coffee Black 708-490-2349

Tugboat Coffee 630-390-6613

alaMODE FOODS INC 847-671-1111

COFFEE-WHOLESALE

Thomas Coffee Page 19 815-768-9651

COLD STORAGE

Perishable Distribution Solutions Page 21 888-491-1641

COMPRESSED GAS

MacCARB Page 28 877-427-2499

CONDIMENTS

Texas Pete Page 17 716-913-7516

CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES

Capitol Construction Solutions Page 02 630-717-8349

Silverleaf Construction 708-398-3222

CONSULTANTS - BBQ

Pork Mafia Inc Page 08 312-543-5368

CONTRACT LABOR SERVICES

All About Personnel Page 12 630-336-6238

Atlas Employment Services Page 04 847-671-1557

CONTRACT MANUFACTURING

Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) 773-278-7800

COOKING EQUIPMENT

Ramar Supply Co Page 16 708-233-0808

CORNED BEEF-FRESH

Vienna Beef Page 11 773-278-7800

CORPORATE GIFTS

Vienna Beef Page 11 773-278-7800

CPA FIRMS

Apple Growth Partners Page 45 224-585-3315

CRANBERRY - DRIED - UNSWEETENED

Honestly Cranberry Page 03 715-424-7325

CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

Team Chicago Menio Global Page 26 847-920-7252

CardConnect-Clover Systems 224-325-4466

DAIRY-DISTRIBUTOR

Instantwhip Chicago Page 15 773-235-5588

DECOR

Zap Props Page 15 773-376-2278

DESSERT SUPPLIES

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

DESSERTS

Chicago Sweet Connection Page 25 773-283-4430

Eli’s Cheesecakes 773-736-7417

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

DESSERTS-WHOLESALE

Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 23 708-547-5969

DIRECT MAIL PROGRAMS

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

DISHWASHING & CHEMICALS

C-Soap/CSI 888-908-5600

DISINFECTING SERVICES

Kleen Teem Group Page 40 888-717-0360

Sexton Group Floor Care Page 10 847-827-1188

DRAPERIES-CLEANING

Sexton Group Floor Care Page 10 847-827-1188

DUCT CLEANING

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 20 800-325-8476

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

EGGS

Meadowbrook Egg & Dairy Company 773-523-8861

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOKS

Employco USA Page 07 630-920-0000

EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEYS

Rob Bernstein - Laner Muchin 312-342-7778

EMPLOYMENT LAW

Laner Muchin 312-467-9800

ENERGY BROKER

Century Energy Solutions Page 10 630-817-3164

ETHNIC FOODS

Kikkoman Sales USA Page 19 630-954-1244

FILTERS-EXHAUST SYSTEMS

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

FIRE SUPRESSION SYSTEMS

Fox Valley Fire & Safety Page 03 847-695-5990

FISH & SEAFOOD

Coast To Coast Foods Page 08 847-877-9020

FLATBREADS

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

FLOOR-NON-SLIP TREATMENT

Step Advantage 312-801-4123

FOOD DISTRIBUTORS

Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 44 773-801-1600

Coast To Coast Foods Page 08 847-877-9020

Cugini Distribution Page 42 708-695-9471

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

Performance Foodservice: Chicago Page 13 630-896-1991

Performance Foodservice: Milwaukee Page 13 800-775-9030

T Castro Produce Co Page 30 773-869-9400

Tec Foods Inc Page 14 773-638-5310

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

Chef’s Quality Meats 708-333-0880

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

Wilkens Foodservice 708-235-0788

FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Create Inc Chicago Page 30 773-664-4024

FOOD PRODUCT SAMPLES

Sample Cart Page 26 616-819-0052

FOOD PRODUCTS

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

Tec Foods Inc Page 14 773-638-5310

Texas Pete Page 17 716-913-7516

Galant Food Company 415-552-5475

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

Jiffy Foodservice 800-727-2460

Neil Jones Food Company 800-543-4356

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT

A D E Foodservice Equipment 630-628-0811

Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650

Thunderbird Food Machinery 866-451-1668

FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT-REPAIR

CSI 888-908-5600

Cobblestone Ovens 847-635-0172

United Fast Food & Beverage 847-616-0711

FOODSERVICE- LAYOUT & DESIGN

Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650

Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100

FOODSERVICE-EQUIPMENT PARTS

CSI 888-908-5600

Cobblestone Ovens 847-635-0172

FOODSERVICE-SUPPLIES

Ramar Supply Co Page 16 708-233-0808

FORK LIFTS

Voss Equipment 708-596-7000

FRANCHISE LAWYERS

Judd Lofchie & Associates Page 26 630-236-3600

FRANCHISE-CONSULTANTS

Big Sky Franchising Team 855-824-4759

FREEZERS-ALL TYPES

Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 18 630-879-3131

FRYERS

FSI/Foodservice Solutions 847-719-6088

FURNISHINGS

Zap Props Page 15 773-376-2278

GAMING TERMINALS

J & J Gaming Page 16 833-788-1949

Aces Up Gaming 773-209-4800

GELATO

Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 23 708-547-5969

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

alaMODE FOODS INC 847-671-1111

GELATO EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES

Kool Technologies Page 08 630-483-2256

GIARDINIERA

E Formella & Sons Page 26 877-598-0909

V Formusa Company 847-813-6040

GRAND OPENING PROMOTIONS

LED Billboard Trucks 312-924-7979

GREASE RECYCLING

Darling Ingredients Inc Page 18 708-388-3223

GREASE REMOVAL SERVICE

Darling Ingredients Inc Page 18 708-388-3223

Kaluzny Brothers Inc 815-744-1453

Mahoney Environmental Inc 815-730-2088

GREASE TRAP PUMPING SERVICE

Darling Ingredients Inc Page 18 708-388-3223

Tierra Environmental Page 32 888-551-1998

Kaluzny Brotherrs Inc 815-744-1453

GREASE TRAP SERVICE

Tierra Environmental Page 32 888-551-1998

GREASE-EXHAUST CLEANING

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 20 800-325-8476

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

GREEK FOOD PRODUCTS

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

GYROS

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

H/R-HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES

Employco USA Page 07 630-920-0000

HALAL FOOD PRODUCTS

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

HAMBURGER PATTY MANUFACTURER

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

HEALTH INSURANCE

Gallagher Page 02 630-285-3686

National Restaurant Association Page 02 312-715-5363

Employco USA Page 07 630-920-0000

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONER SERVICE & REP

Mechanical 24 847-987-9738

HELIUM

MacCARB Page 28 877-427-2499

HISPANIC FOOD PRODUCTS

La Criolla Page 23 312-243-8882

HOOD EXHAUST & FAN CLEANING

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 20 800-325-8476

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

HOT DOGS

Vienna Beef Page 11 773-278-7800

Crawford Sausage 773-277-3095

Red Hot Chicago 800-249-5226

HOT SAUCE

Texas Pete Page 17 716-913-7516

HUMMUS & SPREADS

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

ICE CREAM

Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Page 14 608-221-8640

Homer’s Gourmet Ice Cream Page 40 847-251-0477

Instantwhip Chicago Page 15 773-235-5588

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

ICE CREAM EQUIPMENT REPAIR & SUPPLY

Kool Technologies Page 08 630-483-2256

ICE CREAM-EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY

Kool Technologies Page 08 630-483-2256

ICE CREAM-YOGURT

Instantwhip Chicago Page 15 773-235-5588

ICE MACHINE LEASING PROGRAMS

Easy Ice 866-327-9423

ICE MACHINE REPAIR & SANITIZING

Major Appliance Service 708-447-4100

ICE MACHINES-SALES-RENTAL OR LEASING

Empire Cooler Service Page 04 312-733-3900

Ice Solutions 24 847-987-9738

INSURANCE

Cacciatore Insurance Page 06 312-264-6055

Caro Insurance Services 708-745-5031

Concklin Insurance Agency 630-268-1600

ISU Northwest Insurance Services 847-310-0400

Society Insurance 888-576-2438

WM Schwartz Insurance 847-525-2846

INSURANCE SERVICES

Cacciatore Insurance Page 06 312-264-6055

Gallagher Page 02 630-285-3686

INSURANCE-INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL

Cacciatore Insurance Page 06 312-264-6055

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100

INTERNET ADVERTISING

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

ITALIAN BEEF

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

Serrelli’s Foods Page 15 877-385-BEEF

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

Red Hot Chicago 800-249-5226

ITALIAN FOOD SPECIALTIES

E Formella & Sons Page 26 877-598-0909

ITALIAN SAUSAGE

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

JANITOR-SUPPLIES

Ramar Supply Co Page 16 708-233-0808

JAPANESE-FOOD PRODUCTS

Kikkoman Sales USA Page 19 630-954-1244

JUICER REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

Up ‘N Adam Service and Supply Inc 877-876-2326

JUICERS-FRUIT & VEGETABLES

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

KETCHUP

Red Gold Page 29 765-557-5500

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT

A D E Foodservice Equipment 630-628-0811

KITCHEN FLOOR NON-SLIP TREATMENTS Step Advantage 312-801-4123

KITCHEN-EXHAUST SYSTEMS/CLEANING

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 20 800-325-8476 Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

KNIFE EXCHANGE SERVICE

A Maestranzi Sons Page 42 630-504-2865

LABEL PRINTERS

Edwards Label Printing Page 43 847-663-6600

LAW FIRMS

Tuckey Law Page 06 312-701-2200

Laner Muchin 312-467-9800

LINEN SUPPLY & RENTAL SERVICE

Cosmopolitan Textile 773-254-6100

LIQUOR-WHOLESALE

Peerless Liquors 773-378-3908

LOGISTICS COMPANIES

Perishable Distribution Solutions Page 21 888-491-1641

MATERIALS HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Voss Equipment 708-596-7000

MAYONNAISE

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 48 773-265-6500

MEAT PROCESSING EQUIP SALES & SERVICE

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

MEAT PRODUCTS

Smithfield Foods 888-327-6526

MEAT-WHOLESALE

Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070

New S B L Inc Page 32 773-376-8280

Park Packing Company Page 28 773-254-0100

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

Chef’s Quality Meats 708-333-0880

International Meat Company 773-622-1400

MEATS -WHOLE PIGS-GOATS-LAMB

Park Packing Company Page 28 773-254-0100

MEDITERRANEAN FOODS

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010 Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

MENUS-CUSTOM PRINTED

Accurate Printing 708-824-0058

MILK

Instantwhip Chicago Page 15 773-235-5588

NEIGHBORHOOD MARKETING

LED Billboard Trucks 312-924-7979

NITROGEN

MacCARB Page 28 877-427-2499

OILS & FATS-COOKING

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 48 773-265-6500

OILS & SHORTENING

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 48 773-265-6500

OILS & VINEGAR

Pastorelli Foods Page 47 800-SOSAUCY

OILS-COOKING/BULK

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 48 773-265-6500

OLIVE OILS

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 48 773-265-6500

ORGANIC FOODS

Pastorelli Foods Page 47 800-SOS-AUCY

OVENS-SALES & SERVICE

Cobblestone Ovens 847-635-0172

PALLET JACKS

Voss Equipment 708-596-7000

PANCAKE-BATTER & MIX

Tec Foods Inc Page 14 773-638-5310

PAPER-PRODUCTS

Ramar Supply Co Page 16 708-233-0808

Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688

PARTY-FAVORS & SUPPLIES

Ramar Supply Co Page 16 708-233-0808

PASTA-FRESH AND FROZEN

Cugini Distribution Page 42 708-695-9471

Pastafresh Home Made Pasta Page 42 773-745-5888

PASTRIES

Chicago Sweet Connection Page 25 773-283-4430

PASTRY CONSULTING

Sweet Bee Pastry Consulting 847-828-4812

PATIO ENCLOSURES

Thatcher Oaks Awnings 630-833-5700

PATIO HEATERS

TNG Industries Page 32 708-449-1100

PATTY MACHINES/FOOD FORMERS

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

PAYROLL SERVICES

ADP 630-670-5460

Employco USA Page 07 630-920-0000

PEST CONTROL

Rose Pest Solutions Page 30 800-GOT-PEST

PHOTOGRAPHY

All Events Photography 312-543-2100

PICKLES & RELISH

Vienna Beef Page 11 773-278-7800

PITA BREAD

Grecian Delight Foods 847-364-1010

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

PIZZA SAUCE

Neil Jones Food Company 800-543-4356

PIZZA SAUSAGE

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

PIZZA SUPPLY DISTRIBUTORS

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

POINT OF SALE SUPPLIES

Alpha POS Services Inc 630-690-9232

POINT OF SALE SYSTEMS

Alpha POS Services Inc 630-690-9232 Shift4 630-521-9900 SpotOn Inc 937-830-0828

PORK PRODUCTS

Peer Foods 773-927-1440

POS SYSTEMS

Alpha POS Systems Inc 630-690-9232

CardConnect-Clover Systems 224-325-4466 Shift4 630-521-9900

SpotOn Inc 937-830-0828

POS SYSTEMS-CLOUD BASED

Alpha POS Services Inc 630-690-9232 Shift4 630-521-9900

SpotOn Inc 937-830-0828

POULTRY-FRESH

New S B L Inc Page 32 773-376-8280

PRESSURE WASHING

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

PRINTING-CUSTOM ITEMS

Accurate Printing 708-824-0058

PRIVATE LABEL FOOD MANUFACTURERS

E Formella & Sons Page 26 877-598-0909

PRODUCE-WHOLESALE

T Castro Produce Co Page 30 773-869-9400

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Sweet Bee Pastry Consulting 847-828-4812

PROMOTIONAL MARKETING

LED Billboard Trucks 312-924-7979

PROPANE SERVICE

Propane Pete 847-754-7662

PROPERTY - TAX - REAL ESTATE LAW

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

PUBLISHING

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

RACKING-PALLET

Voss Equipment 708-596-7000

RE-UPHOLSTERY

Chicago Booth Page 06 773-378-8400

REAL ESTATE LAW

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT REPAIR

Kool Technologies Page 08 630-483-2256

CSI 888-908-5600

Mechanical 24 847-987-9738

REFRIGERATION-EQUIP/COMMERCIAL

Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 18 630-879-3131

RESTAURANT CONSULTANTS

Stanovich Hospitality 708-359-1911

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT

Easy Ice 866-327-9423

FSI/Foodservice Solutions 847-719-6088

Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 18 630-879-3131

Federal Supply USA Page 09 847-623-1310

Ramar Supply Co Page 16 708-233-0808

Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688

Schultz Supply 708-652-2020

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT PARTS

CSI 630-941-7070

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR

CSI 888-908-5600

Up ‘N Adam Service and Supply Inc 877-876-2326

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR SERVICE

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

Cobblestone Ovens 847-635-0172

Major Appliance Service 708-447-4100

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT-NEW & USED

March Quality Used & New Equip Page 10 800-210-5895

RESTAURANT REAL ESTATE SALES

John Moauro/Realty Executives 708-361-1150

Nick Dibrizzi/Coldwell Banker 708-562-9328

Ted Aretos/ Eatz & Associates 815-761-8334

Vince Ferraro/Pontarelli & Associates 847-778-3571

RESTAURANT-DESIGNERS

Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650

Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100

RETRACTABLE PATIO ENCLOSURES

Viewpoint Retractable Enclosure 630-504-2099

RETRACTABLE SKYLIGHTS/ROOFS

Viewpoint Retractable Enclosure 630-504-2099

ROBOTICS

Bear Robotics Page 15 650-260-2931

ROOF TOP GREASE CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 20 800-325-8476

ROOFS-SALES-REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

Care Sheet Metal & Roofing Page 31 708-387-9784

SAFETY TREATMENT FOR FLOORS

Step Advantage 312-801-4123

SALAD-DRESSINGS

Ken’s Foods 800-633-5800

SALAD-DRESSINGS & OILS

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 48 773-265-6500

Tec Foods Inc Page 14 773-638-5310

SANITATION CERTIFICATION

Illinois Restaurant Association Page 24 312-787-4000

SATELLITE TV SYSTEMS

All Sports Direct 630-918-3000

SAUSAGE

Vienna Beef Page 11 773-278-7800

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

Crawford Sausage 773-277-3095 Red Hot Chicago 800-249-5226

SCALES

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

SCALES-SALES & REPAIR

Accurate Scale Company 773-847-1820

SEAFOOD

Fisherman’s Pride Page 27 800-543-2110

SEATING

Trendler Inc Page 45 773-255-4407

Solo Seating LLC 231-284-9996 Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

SELF-SERVICE ORDERING KIOSKS

Alpha POS Services Inc 630-690-9232

SEWER (MAINTENANCE) - RODDING & JETTING

Tierra Environmental Page 32 888-551-1998

SHAKE MIX

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

SHIPPING-REFRIGERATED & FROZEN

Perishable Distribution Solutions Page 21 888-491-1641

SHORTENING

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 48 773-265-6500

SIGNAGE-INDOOR & OUTDOOR

American Graphics & Sign Page 20 888-774-6270

SLICERS - AUTOMATED

CES Nationwide 773-533-3333

SLICERS-SALES & SERVICE

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

SLOT MACHINES

J & J Gaming Page 16 833-788-1949

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

Create Inc Chicago Page 30 773-664-4024

SOFT DRINKS

PepsiCo Foodservice 773-893-2319

SOFT SERVE-ICE CREAM/EQUIP & SUPPLIES

Kool Technologies Page 08 630-483-2256

SOFT SERVICE MIX

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

SOUPS

Vienna Beef Page 11 773-278-7800

Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) 773-278-7800

SPICES

La Criolla Page 23 312-243-8882

SPIRITS

R Jelinek Midwest 708-691-3895

STAFFING-SERVICES

All About Personnel Page 12 630-336-6238

Atlas Employment Services Page 04 847-671-1557

STEAM CLEANING

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT

CES Nationwide 773-533-3333

SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT REPAIR

Up ‘N Adam Service and Supply Inc 877-876-2326

SUPERMARKET- EQUIPMENT/ NEW & USED

Berkel Midwest Page 12 800-921-9151

TABLES-ALL TYPES

Chicago Booth Page 06 773-378-8400

Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

TABLES-MODULAR-MAGNETIC

Solo Seating LLC 231-284-9996

TAMALES

Supreme Frozen Products 773-622-3777

TAX APPEALS (PROPERTY)

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

TEMPORARY STAFFING

All About Personnell Page 12 630-336-6238

Atlas Employment Services Page 04 847-671-1557

THEATERS AND VENUES

Onesti Entertainment Corporation 630-962-7000

TOMATO PRODUCTS

Pastorelli Foods Page 47 800-SOS-AUCY

Red Gold Page 29 765-557-5500

Neil Jones Food Company 800-543-4356

TRADE PUBLICATIONS

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

TRADE SHOWS & EVENTS

National Pizza Show 754-246-6112

TRUCK BODIES-SALES & REPAIR

Paramount Truck Body Page 09 312-666-6441

TRUCK GRAPHICS

American Graphics & Sign Page 20 888-774-6270

TRUCKS

Freeway Ford Page 22 708-442-9000

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Sexton Group Floor Care Page 10 847-827-1188

VEGETABLES-FIRE ROASTED

Neil Jones Food Company 800-543-4356

VEHICLE WRAPS

Paramount Truck Body Page 09 312-666-6441

VENTILATING-SYTEMS CLEANING

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 20 800-325-8476

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

VIDEO GAMING

J & J Gaming Page 16 833-788-1949

VIDEO GAMING TERMINALS

J & J Gaming Page 16 833-788-1949

VISA/MC CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT

Team Chicago Menio Global Page 26 847-920-7252

WALK-IN COOLER REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

Mechanical 24 847-987-9738

WALK-IN COOLERS AND FREEZERS

Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 18 630-879-3131

WATER HEATERS / BOILERS

U S Water Heating Solutions Page 46 833-879-4776

WEBSITE DESIGN

Americaneagle.com Page 33 847-699-0300

WEDDING CAKES

Ideal Bakery 773-631-6897

WELDING & FABRICATING

KOP Ind. Welding & Fabrication Page 42 630-930-9516

WHIPPED CREAM

Instantwhip Chicago Page 15 773-235-5588

WIND SCREENS

Thatcher Oaks Awnings 630-833-5700

WOOD FLOOR CARE

Sexton Group Floor Care Page 10 847-827-1188

WORKERS COMP INSURANCE

Employco USA Page 07 630-920-0000

YOGURT & SOFT SERVE EQUIPMENT

Kool Technologies Page 08 630-483-2256

Culinary Trends for 2023

Fermented foods and beverages are likely to continue growing in popularity in 2023 as the trend expands into various cultures and cuisines. Bars and restaurants will feed nostalgia cravings with the resurrection of classic desserts and cocktails. Eateries

Grocers Tout Private-Label to Boost Sales

Many grocers across the US and Europe are betting bigger on in-house brands to drive growth as inflationweary shoppers search for value. Kroger introduced 147 new store-branded products and reported a 10% increase in sales of private-label products during the third quarter, UK-based ASDA attributes a return to profitability in Q3 to the success of its new Just Essentials line and France-based Carrefour has an ambitious four-year plan to grow private-label sales. According to FMI — The Food Industry Association, more than 80% of grocers say they will increase investments in private brands by 2024.

CHEF PROFILE

Chesaree Rollins

Birthplace: Chicago.

Current Position: Chef, Food Truck and Restaurant Owner.

First Foodservice Job: CheSa’s Gluten Free Food Truck.

Favorite Food: Mexican Food.

If you couldn’t be a chef, what would you be and why: I would still work in corporate America. Best advice you ever got was...Stay consistent. Where do you like to vacation? San Juan, Puerto Rico.

CheSa’s Bistro Bar 3235 West Addison, Suite C Chicago, IL 60618 www.upcgroup.net

Coca-Cola teamed with DJ Mark Ronson and rapper Madlib for a “Recycled Records” campaign that features an original EP from the pair with tracks made from the sounds of the brand’s plastic bottles being recycled. The push, part of the brand’s wider “World Without Waste” initiative, encourages fans to make their tracks using an interactive tool and a digital sound library. – Source: The Drum

Cary Miller Presents:

This month I am proud to be pictured with Chef Corey Grupe, with HMS Host . Cory is a longtime reader and supporter of Food Industry News. His responsibilities include overseeing the HMS foodservice operations at O’Hare Airport and other venues, while helping to develop new menu ideas and improving efficiencies to result in a fantastic experience for each of the tens of thousands of guests they serve each day.

Christine Clavenna is the Business Development Manager with Capitol Construction. Christine’s firm has extensive experience in the food industry, and has been serving the Chicago market since 2003. From ground-up new construction projects, to expansion projects to remodel and re-concept projects, Capitol Construction has the team and expertise to get your project done on-time and on-budget with no surprises or delays. The firm also has an office in Nashville which is also focused on serving their restaurant, hospitality and food supplier clients. You can see their ad on page 2 of this issue.

Kate Sickery is the Midwest Regional Manager for Texas Pete, a brand of delicious bold, balanced and legendary products, made from formulas dating back to 1929. Kate is passionate about helping independent and chain foodservice operators bring out the flavors on their menus with the great line of products that her company offers. The Texas Pete line-up of products include Hot Sauce, Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce, Eastern Carolina BBQ Sauce, Sweet Flame BBQ Sauce, Traditional BBQ Sauce, Sriracha Hot Chile Sauce, Sabor Mexican Style Hot Sauce, Salsa, Wing Sauce, Pepper Sauce, their Original Dust Dry Seasoning and others. Be sure to contact the company for samples of their delicious products. You can see their ad on age 17 of this issue. Patrick and Bianca Letens are the founders and owners of Indiana-based Dutch Waffle Company, a firm manufacturing authentic Dutch Stroopwafels. These “syrup waffles” are a delicious snack or entrée made without artificial flavors or preservatives. The products are baked by hand using fine ingredients. Their products are sold to foodservice and retail outlets, wrapped individually or in a pack of 8. You can sample their product at our next Shmoozefest on Tuesday March 7th.

Cristiana Crin is a gifted interior designer with Perpetuum Designs, creating cost-effective, creative and memorable experiences through interior design. Her expertise is in helping her customers to create memorable spaces which create a buzz and bring guests back. Cristiana was born in the mystical land of Transylvania, in a beautiful little fairytale town called Simleul Silvaniei. Cristiana splits her time between her two offices in Chicago and London, where she works closely with hospitality clients to make a difference in their business and success.

Curtis Newborn is the Chief Creative Officer and photographer at Elk Grove Village, Il based Food Photo Studio. In today’s business climate, every food brand needs striking imagery that connects, disrupts, and engages prospects, which is the focus of this firm. From packaging design to photography, their team applies design thinking to every project, creating winning imagery that sells. Their 5400 square-foot full service photo studio is easily accessible to food vendors, restaurants and agencies throughout the Chicago area.

The Chicago market Outfront Media team dedicated to helping restaurants, food and beverage brands get exposure consists of Pat Carey, Ben Lewis, Quadri AladeLambo, Paige Lucin, Alyssa Sterczek, Maria Kays and Stephen Petrick . Outfront is one of North America’s most innovative media companies, leveraging the power of billboards, with creative excellence, unbeatable locations, and smart audience data to change the game for advertisers.

are “reassuring” from brands that they know and trust.

Saving Money On Your Forklift Maintenance

One of the most critical long-term values of planned maintenance is that it will save you money. One main contributing factor is avoiding repair costs and downtime, catching issues early before they become problems. But there are others, as explained here.

More important than these cost savings can be the long-term benefit of planned forklift maintenance on the safety and security of operators. Worn-out components can lead to accidents, but a technician can replace these components during planned maintenance before they become too worn to function.

Increased efficiency is also a benefit. Your forklifts will see increased uptime because of frequent maintenance and because you can plan for downtime during a regularly scheduled inspection.

Planned forklift maintenance can also have additional, unanticipated benefits. For example, Your operation might avoid interruption

to your daily schedule caused by a forklift breaking down with planned maintenance. Instead of calling around to locate a service tech, a Voss Equipment Certified Technician will be on site regularly to help prevent such problems from occurring.

Signing up for a maintenance plan is a great way to save yourself money down the road. Downtime will be the first cost reduction you’ll see with a maintenance plan. Downtime is the single most expensive cost associated with a forklift. Maintenance plans facilitate early catches and easier access to technicians, increasing your uptime. Second, a maintenance plan will ensure your forklift gets the care it needs, improving its lifespan. Third, there are always options, depending on your chosen maintenance plan, making your maintenance easier to budget.

"Forklifts".

Kitchen Exhaust 101: What Managers Needs To Know

Food Industry News along with Donald Pfleiderer, owner and founder of enVIROmatic Corp, Inc. will be hosting a webinar on Tuesday February 7th, 2023.

The seminar will be based on the newly release IKECA M-10 Maintenance Standard and what it means for your kitchen and fire safety. We will also touch on the NFPA96 and the 2 related IKECA C-10 cleaning standard and I-10 inspection standard. In addition to the basics, Learn what your inspectors are looking at and what the expectations are or should be. And why. We will include timely hints and basics from 48 years of experience in the KEC field. Basics like knowing ahead of time how to keep your restaurant operating when things go south and how to address and assess some common issues. Knowing when to call someone or when you can perform a simple fix. Saving potentially thousands of dollars both short and long term. And maybe even someone's life. Watch for an eblast with a link for this free webinar.

For more information email enVIROmatic Corporation, at: don@enviromatic.com

Gala Corp Buys Rusty Taco

The Atlanta-based owner of giant chains Dunkin’, Arby’s and Sonic on Monday announced that it has sold the smallest of its six chains to Gala Corp., arguing that it would be better off in the hands of an operator more experienced with emerging chains. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. “Inspire’s tightly integrated shared services model is optimized for brands at scale, and all our scaled brands have ample runway for continued growth,” Christian Charnaux, chief growth officer for Inspire, said in a statement. “Therefore, we concluded that an owner focused on emerging brands would be the best partner for Rusty Taco’s next chapter of growth.”

It found a buyer in Gala Corp., the Southern California investment firm that either owns or has invested in Cicis Pizza, Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes and Dunn Brothers Coffee.

Full-Service Eateries Are Embracing Bowls

The popularity of customizable bowls at fast-casual restaurants has some full-service eateries adding them to the menu. Bartaco created customizable bowls using ingredients that the 24-unit chain already features elsewhere on the menu, a strategy that didn’t require changes to the supply chain and resulted in dishes that held up better than tacos in delivery and takeout orders.

Advertise, or allow the competition to tell your customers what to think about you.

Subaru of America Celebrates the Return of Annual WinterFest

Subaru of America, Inc. announced the return of its annual mountain tour, Subaru WinterFest, which celebrates everything that winter offers for skiers, snowboarders, snow-enthusiasts, music fanatics, animal lovers and everyone in between.

“For many people, the winter months actually mean spending more time outdoors enjoying a wide variety of activities with friends and families, and our canine friends too,” said Alan Bethke, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Subaru of America, Inc. “Our Subaru community looks forward to the return of WinterFest each year, which brings family-friendly activities to eight different ski resorts across the country.”

In partnership with Powdr, the leading adventure lifestyle company, with multiple mountain resort destinations across North America, the tour aims to promote the Subaru Wilderness family of vehicles across the natural environments of each

Weekend Resort

February 11-12 Killington Mountain Resort, Vt.

February 25-26 Eldora Mountain Resort, Colo.

March 11-12 Copper Mountain Resort, Colo.

March 18 Woodward Park City, Utah

March 24-26 Snowbird Ski Resort, Utah

April 1-2 Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, Calif.

April 8 Woodward: Tahoe Resort, Calif.

April 15-16 Mt. Bachelor, Ore.

Powdr resort. Each WinterFest event will also include live music and special satellite concerts sponsored by Harman Kardon, the premium audio partner for Subaru vehicles. Bands including Infamous Stringdusters, Lil Smokies, Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown, Spazmatics, Sunsquabi, Bad Fish, Big Gigantic and more will all be taking stage this winter along the tour.

Subaru fans and resort guests will also have the opportunity to demo the latest gear from top brands such as Nordica, Arbor Collective, Mammut, Dynamic Wax and Thule. Mountain-goers are invited to play ski-inspired lawn games, warm up at the upgraded Solo Stove hang out zones and enjoy chef-inspired s’mores, Vafels and Alpine Start Coffee at the Winterfest Café.

Subaru WinterFest 2023 will feature stops at eight of the country’s top mountain resorts, where winter sports enthusiasts and Subaru owners can enjoy live music, food & beverage, gear demonstrations, avalanche rescue dogs, and more.

RE�������������� SE������ TO-����������

With nearly 30 dressings, sauces and dips to choose from, Butcher Boy single-serving dressing cups offer on-the-go flavor that pairs perfectly with all your customers’ favorite foods. Save time and cleanup for yourself while providing your custome with the quality they demand and the safety they need.

• Featuring BBQ, Hot Sauce, Ranch, Mayonnaise, Pancake Syrup, and many more!

• Gluten-free and nut-free

• Private labeling also available