Food Industry News: February 2024

FOOD INDUSTRY NEWS FEBRAUARY 2024

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YOUR CHICAGOLAND BUYING REFERENCE TOOL FOR OVER 40 YEARS!

The Southern Café’s own, “The Nasty Biscuit”

Pancakes at The Southern Kitchen

Southern Belle’s Belly Buster Biscuit

The Fotos Group – Delivering ‘Nasty Biscuits’ and So Much More The Fotos Group founder and partner, Steve Fotos continues to start every day passionate about delivering excellence. With over 35 years of hospitality experience, he has created a collective of establishments across Chicagoland's most popular suburbs.

This passion is celebrated at each one of the group’s locations and concepts. Here’s a run down of their roster of eateries...

Southern Belle’s Loaded Cornbread Pancake Combo

Southern Belle’s has locations in Barrington, Bedford Park, Carpentersville, Plainfield and Yorkville, and are home to the “Bo Nut” which is a cross between a savory butter biscuit and a vanilla cake donut tossed in cinnamon sugar. New to the menu is the Hot Honey Thigh Chicken Sandwich, Cornbread Pancakes with Pork Belly.

Jams are made in house using fruit from local farms when available.

See ‘Fotos Group’ on page 40

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

REAL ESTATE AUCTION - MARCH 13, 2024

FULLY FURNISHED RESTAURANT OPPORTUNITY! 9421 S. STONY ISLAND, CHICAGO, IL • Previously Valued Over $3,500,000 • Suggested Opening Bid: $1,700,000

• On-site inspections from Noon to 2 p.m. on Feb. 20, Feb. 29, March 6 and by appointment.

Like new, 1-year-old former “Huddle House”, currently not operating, over 3,000 square-foot stand-alone building with parking lot.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: Rick Levin & Associates, Inc. • Since 1991 312-440-2000 • www.ricklevin.com

Fogo de Chão Expands Chicagoland Presence with New Location in Schaumburg

The magazine buyers read, use and keep.

Fogo de Chão, the internationally-renowned restaurant from Brazil announced the signing of a lease agreement for its fifth restaurant in Chicagoland. The new 8,500-squarefoot restaurant is scheduled to open in 2024 across the street from Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, the largest shopping mall in the state of Illinois. The restaurant in Schaumburg, a northwestern suburb of Chicago and a thriving economic center, will offer a new dining experience to residents. 2023 has proven to be another strong year for Fogo with 22 new domestic and international leases signed and recent openings in key U.S. markets including Providence, R.I., Huntington Beach, C.A., Thousand Oaks, C.A., Irving, T.X., Emeryville, C.A., Wayne, N.J., and Brea, C.A. “As a major hub for business, economic development, and commerce in the Midwest, we are excited to expand in the Chicago market,” said Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “We look forward to bringing the culinary art of churrasco to Schaumburg’s residents, working professionals, and business travelers to enjoy as we have in the Chicagoland area for the past 21 years

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Chicago Company Cooks Up a Star Menu in time for “Big Game”

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Chicago-based hospitality company Levy has developed a flashy menu for Super Bowl LVIII that includes “neon” hot dogs topped with the Windy City’s signature bright green relish and a surf-and-turf dish that pairs wagyu tenderloin and lobster tail. Levy has been the food and beverage partner of Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium, which will host the big game on Feb. 11, since it opened in 2020.

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Beef Prices Rising as Volume Slows Beef supplies are on track to dip down to 2015 levels next year, according to Datum FS commodity forecaster David Maloni, and industry experts say it could be a few years before volumes increase significantly. Restaurants are finding ways to deal with the higher prices, including Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill, which offers less-expensive steaks and smaller cuts as alternatives to its 18-ounce ribeye that sells for $36.99.

Schultz Supply Proudly Celebrates 40 Years of Serving Chicagoland Restaurants and Bars Schultz Supply is a Cicero-based food service equipment, supplies, and service distributor.

Since its inception, this family business has thrived by building long-standing customer relationships based on trust and reliability.

“We have not changed our philosophy since we began,” says John Spence, Senior Sales Representative and one of the company’s early employees. “Our goal has always been to support our customers in whatever way possible.”

Schultz Supply began in the early 1980s when James Schultz recognized a need for reliable supply delivery among Chicago restaurants and bars. Recruiting a handful of family and friends, the company

began deliveries with a van, a couple of hand trucks, a dolly, and lots of hustle.

Schultz Supply has grown from its small start into a major market supplier, employing 56 people and offering a full line of products and services. Although the company has grown, the team is nimble and customer-focused. “We will always be a customercentric business,” explains Sarah Schultz, President. “Through our dedicated sales reps, next-day delivery, and responsiveness, we can satisfy our customers and stay true to the principles of trust and reliability instilled by my father. We have the perfect formula to succeed another 40 years.”

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Menu Updates Focus on Portions, Prices

Some restaurants are tweaking portion sizes and prices in an effort to maintain check averages as food and labor costs climb and cost-conscious diners often opt to share fewer items. “We needed to position the menu in a way that made sense for us financially while understanding that people come here to share with their friends,” said Kylie Monagan of Civetta Hospitality, which updated the menu at Calissa in Water Mill, N.Y., to feature small plates geared toward individual diners as well as higher-priced dishes intended for sharing amongst groups.

– Source: The Wall Street Journal

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Loverboy Debuts the First Zero-Sugar, Full-Flavor NonAlcoholic Sparkling Teas: Non-Alcoholic White Tea Peach and Non-Alcoholic Lemon Iced Tea. The premium RTD brand is giving fans a new, better-for-you way to enjoy two of its bestselling tea flavors: Lemon Iced Tea and White Tea Peach, without the alcohol.

Mountain Dew Baja Blast is turning 20 years old and to celebrate this momentous Bajaversary, the brand is giving fans a full year of Mountain Dew Baja Blast in stores nationwide for the first time.

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Gen Z Perceive Craft Drinks as a Gateway for Exploration and Indulgence In a world riddled with economic uncertainties, the dining industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, propelled by Gen Z’s insatiable appetite for unique experiences and penchant for affordable, small indulgences. Gen Z, the largest and most diverse generation with a staggering spending power of $360 billion, craves diversity and personality in their dining experiences. In the post-pandemic world, Gen Z is emerging with a fervent desire for experiences that go beyond the ordinary or offer a respite from the daily grind.

A new report from Botrista, whose DrinkBots automate the production of upscale craft beverages, shows that it’s not just about the drink itself. For a generation who views food and beverage as part of their identity, specialty options are an opportunity for self-expression and indulgence. More than “social lubrication,” as Natalie Battaglia, influencer and founder of The Mindful Mocktail, calls them, drinks have become not only social catalysts but also a healthful indulgence. According to analysis firm Cassandra’s 2022 survey, more than half of Gen Zers believe that what they eat is indicative of who they are as a person.

– Source: PR Newswire.

Gen Z Spends Most of Disposable Income Dining Out 65% of Gen Zers and Millennials consider the variety of non-alcoholic drinks a “very important” factor when deciding where to dine.

47% of Gen Zers find it appealing to order food and drinks made using technology, according to Technomic data.

84% of consumers say going out to a restaurant with family and friends is a better use of their leisure time.

47% of Gen Zers said that they’ll put a prioriy on eating habits and patterns focussing on mental health.

75% of restaurant operators say they’ve seen an increase in interest for healthful beverages.

Food Industry News® — February 2024

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BOWLERO 340 McHenry Rd. BUFFALO GROVE, IL 847-821-9000.

If you’re looking for an activity that is fun for all, you must check this place out. Bowlero is a bowling and game entertainment venue, ideal for any age. You can bowl or check out their arcade or do both. It’s been years since I went bowling. We had a large group so we ended up using two lanes. It was so much fun! The area where you bowl is comfortable and if you want to order food and drinks, they will bring it out to your lane. Our order included some beer, wings and pizza. They do a nice job and have numerous locations.

JIN 28 • 604 E. North Ave. CAROL STREAM, IL 60188, IL 630-580-9168. This is a restaurant that serves three different types of Asian food—Chinese, Japanese and Thai. You don’t have to stick by a certain type of food for your order.

For example, you can have Chinese and Japanese food in one order and it will be prepared and come out of the same kitchen. I had the combination Egg Foo Young, which had chicken, beef and pork in a brown gravy. It was very good and the portion was huge. They have so much variety, I’ll have to try their other offerings.

LIBANAIS • 3300 W. Devon Ave. LINCOLNWOOD, IL 224-470-1515. Their bakery items are magnificent. The packaging is stunning and is sure to impress your host if you need to bring something to a gathering. They offer an assortment of baklavas, baked pita chips. fresh pita bread, cookies, assorted petit fours and European desserts. My favorite cookie here is their macaron; it’s so moist and has apricot in it. You can also dine in the restaurant and try some of their authentic Lebanese cuisine. They offer appetizers, fresh salads, kabobs, sandwiches, shawarma, wraps and so much more.

LINDT • 5220 Fashion Outlets Way ROSEMONT, IL 847-928-9926. If you LOVE chocolate or need a gift for Valentine’s Day, this is the place. They have a huge assortment of loose candies that are sold by the pound. There are so many flavors of their truffles; I picked up some of their pink wrapped truffles; Birthday cake, Strawberry Cheesecake and Strawberries and cream, and a box filled a with red wrapped truffles. They carry boxes of candy and individual chocolate bars too. I picked up two of their 10. Oz Gold Bars; one was Dark Chocolate Almond Orange and the other was Raisin Hazelnut and Almond.

MUSTARD’S LAST STAND • 1613 Central St. EVANSTON, IL 847-864-2700. They have been serving the community since 1969. This is a small hot dog stand with a counter space and some yellow stools to sit on if you plan on dining in. They are located next to Northwestern’s Ryan Field. I picked up a Vienna Beef hot dog with the works and a polish with grilled onions, mustard and peppers. Plus, I got some (skinny) fries to go with my sandwiches. I ordered a Coke from the tap for my drink. That really hit the spot.

PANINO’S PIZZA • 3702 N. Broadway St. CHICAGO, IL 773-472-6200. One of my friends ordered dinner from here for us. Our meal included garlic knots with marinara sauce, the Rigatoni all Boscaiola pasta that had sausage, peas, mushrooms in a creamy tomato sauce. Plus, a Neapolitan pizza – the Lenny D pizza with shrimp, clams and octopus.

Nothing was left over; the food was incredible. For dessert we had homemade carrot cake. Panino’s is known for their award-winning pizza. They also have locations in Park Ridge and Evanston, Illinois which I have dined in before. Another pizza I highly recommend is their Grandma style.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

BOOKSHELF The Milk Street Cookbook Authors: Christopher Kimball Publishers: Voracious ISBN-13: 978-0316563970

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The complete Milk Street cookbook, featuring each dish from every episode of the hit TV show and more – over 500 dishes in all, including 70+ new recipes from the 2023-2024 season.

Christopher Kimball’s James Beard, IACP, and Emmy Award-winning Milk Street TV show and cookbooks give home cooks a simpler, bolder, healthier way to eat and cook.

Now featuring more than 500 tried-and-true recipes, including every recipe from every episode of the TV show, this book is the ultimate guide to high-quality, low effort cooking and the perfect kitchen companion for cooks of all skill levels. Every recipe is paired with a photograph.

At Milk Street, there are no long lists of hard-to-find ingredients, strange cookware, or all day methods. Instead, every recipe has been adapted and tested for home cooks like you.

You’ll find simple recipes that deliver big flavors and textures fast, such as: • Colima-Style Shredded Braised Pork • Lebanese Baked Kafta with Potatoes and Tomatoes • Braised Beef with Dried Figs and Quick-Pickled Cabbage • Japanese-Style Chicken and Vegetable Curry • Turkish Flatbreads • Banana Custard Pie with Caramelized Sugar • Sweet Potato Cupcakes with Cream Cheese-Caramel Frosting • Italian Flourless Chocolate Torta Organized by type of dish – from salads, soups, grains, and vegetable sides to simple dinners and extraordinary desserts – this book is an indispensable reference that will introduce you to extraordinary new flavors and ingenious techniques.

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Petitioners Want Tab Cola Back on Shelves Tab: Coca-Cola’s classic one-calorie drink, is still a favorite for some, and there’s mounting pressure against the Atlanta-based company in hopes of seeing it return to store shelves soon.

Tab, which was discontinued three years ago after an over half-century run, received support from over 6,500 petitioners whose names – along with some handwritten pleas – made their way to a Coke executive who met a group of them at the World of Coca-Cola Museum in Atlanta.

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, visitors came from all around the U.S. to express their hope that the drink will return to retail shelves – and to get a taste of the diet soda now only available at the museum, at a CocaCola store in Las Vegas and at Disneyland in California.

– Source: Fox Business

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

How To Avoid Under-Performing Sales Reps If you’re a business owner who is a supplier, it’s a common story: you need a sales rep.

You hire someone who’s been in the industry for a long time, who you’ve known for years and who was bounced around from company to company, and seems to have many contacts and appears to be a reliable, safe choice to represent your company and help you get new business.

They talk a good game. You hire them. They learn about your products and they begin calling contacts, buyers and those they need to influence. Month after month passes and the sales rep continues to call on buyers, but unable to generate sales.

He talks about his ideas to discount your products, fly across the country for sales calls, and says all the right things but just can’t seem to get buyers to make a change. The rep steps up their emails to buyers, which get lost in the overwhelming “digital noise” that exists today.

When the business owner feels frustrated, the logical thing is to fire the sales rep and start all over. But, with each new hire, the scenario repeats itself time and time again. So, how do you avoid this from happening?

The answer: providing sales reps with every resource needed to be successful. Sales people need to be supported with direct mail, trade shows, emails and educational thought leader articles, which are sent to buyers to educate them and increase their relevance with those they wish to sell to.

With buyers being bombarded by sales messages now, suppliers need to surround the buyer and stay in front of them in order to help move them through the buying cycle and move the sales process forward. This strategy is also important to help you keep the business you have now.

Food Industry News provides these same strategies to those who advertise with us. In addition to our monthly print magazine, we create relevance and top of mind awareness with editorial privileges, in-person Shmoozefest networking events, ads, leads of new openings every month, buyers guide listings and consistent exposure to buyers.

Buyers across the food industry are changing daily. Boomers are retiring, restaurants and changing hands and expanding and many companies are hiring “new talent.”

Now more than ever, buyers need to be engaged and continually educated. We can help you surround your prospects and others who influence buying decisions.

– To see how we can help, call us today at 847-699-3300.

When Did You Last Cost-Out Your Menu?

Costing your menu, and doing it often, is integral to increasing profit in your restaurant. If you have never done it, you need to get started today. Go through your entire menu. When you cost your menu, you’ll discover new insights about your profitability. You will gain knowledge on your costs and profits. With costs rising every day because of inflation, labor, rents, taxes and supply chain issues, you need to have insights enabling you to control the things you can control.

Important Steps To Increasing Your Profits: 1. Identify high food cost items and find a way to reduce their cost (higher menu price? smaller portions? changes in the presentation of the dish (smaller entrée portion, larger side portion?)

2. Determine which items are low cost/high profit and do a better job of promoting/merchandising those items on your menu 3. Keep a watchful eye on items that are starting to rise in cost and change menu prices accordingly.

4. Be mindful of ingredients that are causing your menu item costs to spike.

Changing the menu can be hard, but if your food cost percentage is too high, your profitability will suffer and it could jeopardize your future success and ability to stay in business.

This information is courtesy of BottomLine Profits Consulting, specialists in helping food businesses increase their sales and profits. You can find their ad on page 25.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Growth for Jaggers Brand Texas Roadhouse has grown its quickservice Jaggers concept slowly to just eight locations since the first opened in 2014 and expects to nearly double that number by the end of next year.

Jaggers’ menu features made-to-order burgers, chicken sandwiches and tenders, and much of the unit growth came after the pandemic hit in 2020, spurring demand for off-premises dining.

– Source: nrn.com

Energy Cost Increases Got You Mad? You’re not alone.

Costs are skyrocketing.

Acing Health Inspections: Guiding Your Commercial Ice Machines and Coolers Towards Success

By implementing these strategies, you solidify your establishment’s commitment to health and safety – ensuring you pass inspections and, crucially, exceed your customers’ expectations.

Grubhub’s 2023 report identifies a departure from tradition, focusing on self-expression through diverse culinary choices, including a surge in spicy preferences and unconventional pairings such as Sriracha on classic favorites; late-night coffee orders, with over 10 million placed after 5 p.m.; a surprising 20% rise in the popularity of cow’s milk for coffee, despite alternative milk options; a workplace preference for Diet Coke, witnessing a 17% increase in inoffice orders; and the unexpected rise of fries as the most-ordered side dish of 2023, with a notable trend of pairing them with salads.

– For more information, see Empire Cooler’s ad on page 6.

– Source: Grubhub

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

The Difference Between an Average Cocktail and an Exceptional One

Chances are when you’ve had an exceptional cocktail, it tasted so good, you wanted to order another.

Did you every wonder why that particular mixed drink or cocktail tasted so good, even though you may have had the same drink over a hundred times?

Experienced mixologists know that it’s all about the juice. Not only the liquor, but the actual juice used in the cocktail or mocktail.

Chances are, when you’ve had an exceptional mocktail or cocktail, it was made with fresh juice. A local suburban company, Youth Juice has become the leader in the wholesale fresh pressed juice business. The company fresh-presses about a dozen different fruit and vegetable juices which are delivered direct to retail and foodservice operations on

a weekly basis.

According to the company founder Jessica Scott, “Our juices are healthier and taste fresher than commercially processed juices because ours are fresher. We also use sophisticated fresh pressed juicers to make them nutritionally dense while delivering an unmistakable memorable, fresh juice experience.”

Youth Juice is now used by many of Chicagoland’s leading restaurant and hotel groups.

They also produce and create custom blends for wholesale customers to use as signature mocktails and cocktails.

All of Youth Juice’s juices are delivered in glass bottles to insure freshness and healthfulness. They even have discounts for customers who wish to return and recycle their bottles. The company sells juices in retail and bulk sizes including 8 oz, liter and gallon sizes.

– Find the Youth Juice ads on pages 17 and 29.

Convenience Stores Embrace Private Labels Convenience store owners are turning to private label lines to attract shoppers with Casey’s General Stores growing its line to more than 300 SKUs and Circle K parent company Alimentation Couche-Tard looking to add 110 new private-label items to the existing 300 products it already offers.

A whopping 96% of grocery shoppers buy store brands at least occasionally and 46% of shoppers purchase private-label products all or most of the time, according to The Power of Private Brands 2023 report from FMI – The Food Industry Association.

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We want to support you and tell your story.

Restaurants and bars added 22,100 jobs last month, bringing the total number of industry employees to 12.4 million, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last year saw the creation of 300,000 restaurant industry jobs, compared to 246,000 in 2019, and by year’s end the industry employed 31,000 more people than it did during its prepandemic peak in February 2020.

Shoppers crave personalization and seek it through targeted savings, ease in the shopping experience and finding a localized product assortment. Grocers are using loyalty programs to offer these benefits, said Dunnhumby President Matt O’Grady.

“Whether you have multiple banners or one banner, loyalty programs have a lot to do with them understanding that personalization is here to stay.” O’Grady said.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Vienna Beef Inducts Scoobys Red Hots Into Hot Dog Hall of Fame Newest HOF Member Has Been Serving Famous Chicago-Style Hot Dogs for Over 20 Years Vienna Beef, the legendary Chicago company synonymous with the city’s iconic Hot Dogs, Italian Beef and other products, announced Scooby’s Red Hots (4319 Prince Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515) was inducted into The Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame.

Bob Schwartz, senior vice president of Vienna Beef, bestowed the honor on the local vendor that has been providing exceptional customer service and quality food for decades. Scooby’s was presented with a commemorative Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame plaque, banner, pin, and Hall of Fame branded apparel at the event.

Scooby’s Hot Dogs in Downers Grove, IL has been a neighborhood gem since 2000. Mihir Patel and Miguel Escobedo created a great place with a winning menu backed by Vienna Beef Hot Dogs.

Polish Sausage, Italian Beef, and awesome Burgers. Served with fresh cut fries, shakes and malts and more.

A key component of the great hot dog places is becoming a viable part of the community. That’s where Miguel, Mihir, and Scooby’s get it done. From hosting community fundraisers to helping high school events. They even created a reward program with the library by offering kids to ‘Read a book and get a free Hot Dog’. It’s all this plus Scooby’s customer appreciation days and other events that allow a great community to mingle over delicious food.

Scooby’s food, camaraderie, and attention to their community they have served for the past quarter of a century, has led Vienna Beef to pay homage and induct Miguel, Mihir, and Scooby’s of Downers Grove into the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame. The award was created to honor longtime foodservice operators that have developed into neighborhood landmarks.

Out of thousands of Vienna Beef customers over the years we have recognized only 149 businesses nationwide since the award was created in 2006.

From the entire Vienna Beef family, we are proud to welcome Mihir Patel, Miguel Escobedo, and Scooby’s Hot Dogs of Downers Grove as the 150th recipient.

Founded in 1893, Vienna Beef manufactures and distributes Hot Dogs and Sausages following its time-honored original recipes, with premium domestic beef hickory-smoked for authentic flavor. Austrian-Hungarian immigrants Emil Reichel and Samuel Ladany introduced their family Frankfurter recipe at the legendary Columbian Exposition/World’s Fair and the same recipe is still used 129 years later. The company also produces Pickles and Condiments, Soups and Chilis, Deli Meats, and other premium top-quality foods, distributed throughout the United States. Vienna Beef products are available at Hot Dog stands and restaurants, retail stores, online, and at the company’s factory store in Chicago. Learn more at ViennaBeef.com.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Napa, Calif. is Becoming Cocktail Central

Napa, California might be known for its wines, but the city is emerging as a craft cocktail hot spot. Several cocktail bars have opened in Napa in recent years, including Chispa, an agave spirits-focused spot co-owned by former French Laundr y sommelier Aubrey Bailey, and ZuZu, which complements its extensive gin menu with housemade tonics.

– The San Francisco Chronicle

Employco USA Welcomes Two New Team Members • Available Direct and Thru Distributors • Gluten-Free Options • All-Natural Choices • Seasonal Flavors

Family Owned & Operated Since 1935

Instacart Drives Over 231,000 Grocery Retail Jobs, More Than $15 Billion In Shopper Earnings Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, released the first-ever Instacart Economic Impact Report, quantifying the company’s economic impact across all four sides of the Instacart marketplace – customers, shoppers, retailers, and brands.

The comprehensive analysis shows that Instacart has added over 231,000 brick-andmortar grocery jobs and nearly $8 billion in incremental revenue for the U.S. grocery

industry, generated more than $15 billion in earnings for Instacart shoppers, and saved customers more than 700 million total hours since the company was founded in 2012. With its growing advertising business, Instacart has also helped more than 5,500 brand partners reach new customers and grow their businesses, driving an average of 15% incremental revenue lift for those companies, the report shows.

Employco USA is pleased to announce the growing expansion of its staff.

Emily Spencer, HRIS Specialist: Emily will be responsible for responding to employee portal and new hire onboarding access issues. Additionally, she will address inquiries related to client and internal employee reporting, and will serve as a back-up for various PrismHR responsibilities. Emily brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University and holding a Certificate in Human Resources.

Jessica Deihl, Staff Accountant: In this role, Jessica will be responsible for various accounting duties, including account analysis, reconciliations, and assisting in monthly and quarter-end processes. A seasoned professional in the field, Jessica brings to the team a wealth of experience gained from her prior roles. Her comprehensive understanding of accounting principles, coupled with her proven ability to foster effective communication, positions her as a valuable asset in contributing to Employco’s continued success.

– Find Employco USA in our directory under Health Insurance.

Food Industry News® — February 2024

foodindustrynews.com

Page 17

Local News As a privately held boutique firm,

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Anthony Bartucci, owner of Chicago’s famed PastaFresh Home Made Pasta is celebrating his 35th year of serving fresh pasta to Chicagoland’s restaurant community and Chicago’s Harlem Avenue “Little Italy” neighborhood. Countless chefs and restaurant owners rely on Pasta Fresh for the high quality and labor savings that they provide. Pasta Fresh is said to be the original plant-based food! Their retail store is located 3418 N. Harlem Avenue in Chicago.

BakingTECH celebrates 100years of technical education for the baking industry. ASB’s annual conference will be held Feb. 27-29, 2024 at the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave. and offers technical solutions, insight, and experience.

Over 1,000 baking professionals participate in a number of educational sessions where knowledge and information is shared. Brennan Investment Group announced its acquisition of seven buildings in Wood Dale, Illinois. Situated on 12.5 contiguous acres in the heart of Chicago’s O’Hare submarket, the portfolio spans 280,947 square feet and features frontage on I-390 and Thorndale Avenue. Dom’s Kitchen & Market is seeking to open their first suburban location in Vernon Hills in 2025. Shoppers will find the new 25,000-square-foot Dom’s easily accessible at the intersection of Lake County’s two major thoroughfares (IL-21 and IL-60), along the outer edge of the Hawthorn shopping center in Vernon Hills. Fairmont Chicago offers sophisticated, modern luxury in the heart of downtown Chicago. Overlooking Lake Michigan, Grant and Millennium Parks, and the legendary skyline, the hotel is the ideal backdrop for a romantic urban escape. Treat your partner to a relaxing spa treatment, massage, body treatment, facial and more. February Flavorfest in Lake County, Illinois will combine their renowned Lake County Restaurant Week and Libation Trail initiatives into one taste-tempting, monthlong event February 1-29, 2024.

The foodie frenzy is a multi-platform campaign highlighting Lake County restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries with exclusive dining

offers and more. Gordon Foodservice Spring Show will be held on February 28, 2024 at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center Hall A, 5555 N. River Rd, Rosemont, Illinois. Illinois Association Meat Packers will join the Indiana Meat Packers and Processors for a joint convention on Feb. 22-24, 2024.

The convention will be held at the Embassy Suites at Plainfield, IN. The three day event will be full with tours, workshops, educational sessions, trade show and meat product show competition. The Chicago Golf Show has grown from just a few tabletop exhibits in a hotel ballroom to the largest golf show in Chicago with over 180 vendors, a 4,500 sq. ft. demo area & special appearance from top PGA professionals. It’s taking place Feb. 23-25, 2024 at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. The Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in N.A. and will be held Feb. 10-19, 2024. This year marks the 116th edition of the CAS. Held in McCormick Place, the Chicago show features multiple world and North American Introductions and the complete range of domestic and imported passenger cars, trucks, sport-utility vehicles, minivans, experimental and concept cars. The Chicago Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade will take place Feb. 18. 2024. It will begin at the intersection of 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue and travel north on Wentworth towards the viewing stand at Cermak and Wentworth.

The Tinley Park Home Show will be held February 24-25, 2024 at the Tinley Park Convention Center located at 18451 Convention Center Drive in Tinley Park, Illinois.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Starbucks, Volvo Partner for EV Charging Stations

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Volvo Car USA and Starbucks recently announced that the companies’ charging network partnership is bearing fruit.

The new network, strategically located at select Starbucks stores across the United States, is now open on some key travel corridors. Fifty DC fast chargers, jointly branded by Volvo Cars and Starbucks, have been conveniently

installed at 15 Starbucks locations along a 1,350-mile route between the Denver area and Seattle. This initiative aims to make charging Volvo and other fully electric vehicles as effortless as visiting a Starbucks. The chargers are strategically positioned about every 100 miles., and can provide that much range too.

– Source: cleantechnica.com

PepsiCo’s Rockstar Beverage Growth

Rockstar will continue to lead PepsiCo’s energy beverage portfolio this year, and the company aims to bring new consumers to the brand by increasing its functional profile, said Fabiola Torres, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of PepsiCo’s energy category. “I think that the goal for Rockstar is [to] continue to evolve, continue to try better products for the consumer, and [make] sure that we satisfy the needs,” added Torres. – Source: FoodNavigator The Idahoan Shreds Tater Tumblers Unseasoned Mix is introduced as a versatile and convenient pantry essential, aiming to provide a hassle-free culinary experience. Employing the Fresh-Dried cooking method to maintain the potato’s integrity, this mix serves as a neutral base for creative cooking, allowing for a myriad of mix-ins, toppings, and dipping sauces. With quick and easy preparation, it not only saves time but is also a cost-effective solution for operators. Additionally, the mix is naturally gluten-free, expanding its appeal and making it a versatile option for a range of innovative menu creations, from appetizers to flavorful patties for mini sandwiches or sliders.

Restaurant Industry Pushes Back on Fee Ban A grassroots effort sparked by the National Restaurant Association aims to push back against rules being considered by the Federal Trade Commission that would ban an array of restaurant surcharges including credit card processing fees and automatic gratuities for large parties. “We support the FTC on taking steps to be more transparent and have greater disclosure of fees, but to ban all of them especially for restaurants would be a step too far,” said Sean Kennedy, the association’s executive vice president of public affairs.

– Restaurant Business

Rock N Roll Sushi Offers Branded Sake Rock N Roll Sushi, the Americanstyle sushi restaurant that couples sushi rolls with rock-and-roll music and which has more than 60 locations in 10 states, has launched its very own branded sake in select markets. The branded products mark the first branded sake test initiative for a national U.S.-based sushi chain restaurant. Alcohol contributes 20%

to total sales in sushi restaurants in the U.S., and sake, the national beverage of Japan, is the most popular choice. For the branded sake, the sushi franchise chose to work with Arkansas-based Origami Sake, which recently received the highest recognition for domestically crafted sake from the Sake Brewers Association of North America. – Source: barandrestaurant.com

“ I take pride in whatever I do. If you told me to clean the room up, I’d clean it up real good. ” – Edgerrin James

Food Industry News® — February 2024

foodindustrynews.com

Page 19

TUCKEY’S TIPS

By Lauren N. Tuckey, Esq. and Megan A. Smith, Esq.

New Lawsuit Trend Seeking Unpaid Overtime for Managers

Class action attorneys exploit unintentional, technical breaches of the law that amount to substantial damages. The latest class action trend applying to the hospitality industry is seeking unpaid Lauren N. Tuckey, Esq. overtime for managers who may not technically meet the overtime exemptions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”). Specifically, challenges are made to the authority and judgment requirements in the guidelines outlined below.

Section 13(a)(1) of the FLSA provides an exemption from both minimum wage and overtime pay requirements for employees employed as bona fide executive, administrative, professional and outside sales employees. An exemption requires that both the salary and job duties tests be met.

Exemptions most applicable to restaurant/hotel managers and assistant managers are the executive and administrative exemptions. To qualify for the executive exemption, all of the following tests must be met: • Salary of at least $684/week; • Employee’s primary duty must be management of a department or subdivision; • Employee must regularly direct the work of at least two or more other full time employees or their equivalent; and • The employee must have the authority to hire or fire other employees, or the employee’s recommendations must be given particular weight.

To qualify for the administrative exemption, all of the following tests must be met: • Salary of at least $684/week; • Employee’s primary duty must be the performance of office or non-manual work directly related to the management or general business operations of the employer or employer’s customers; and • Employee’s primary duty includes the exercise of discretion and independent judgment with respect to matters of significance.

Additionally, temporary employees who may otherwise qualify for an exemption, are usually not exempt because they are contracted with a temporary agency and paid on an hourly basis. Therefore, they must be paid overtime.

– Find the Tuckey Law ad on page 24.

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

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

AROUND CHICAGO With VALERIE MILLER

MIRU at The St. Regis Chicago

Miru at The St. Regis Chicago is now serving weekend brunch. Seamlessly blending traditional Japanese offerings like Chawanmushi and Okonomiyaki with classics with an Asian twist, Miru’s brunch is available every Saturday and Sunday. Here’s a taste of what to expect from the new menu, served alongside epic views of the Chicago River and Navy Pier.

Chawanmushi: This silky-smooth, savory egg custard is often served as an appetizer in Japan, but Chef Hisanobu Osaka decided to adapt the umami-filled dish for brunch at Miru. This elegant, creative take is steamed with shiitake mushrooms and served warm in a covered pot with ikura and a drizzle of black truffle ponzu poured tableside.

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Preferences to Shape Trends in 2024

Cravings for self-expression, nostalgia and wellness are driving food trends heading into the new year, according to several 2024 trend reports, SmartBrief’s Audrey Altmann writes. AI is feeding the self-expression trend by offering flavor creators more ability to tailor recipes to individual tastes, said Jennifer Zhou, ADM’s senior director of global product marketing, flavors.

– Source: SmartBrief

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Okonomiyaki: One of Japan’s favorite street foods gets an elevated spin in this traditional savory Japanese cabbage pancake served in the flavorful Kansai-style. Griddled to perfection, Miru’s Okonomiyaki is then topped with marinated baby shrimp and accompanied by katsu sauce for a delightful fusion of flavors.

(Build Your Own) Temaki: Unleash your inner sushi master with a customizable hand roll experience.

Choose from four chef-selected types of sashimi to mix and match to your own taste with seaweed, sticky rice, and a variety of accompaniments like chives, tobanjan aioli, and spicy chili.

Breakfast Bao: Savor the Japanese-inspired Breakfast Bao-two soft, steamed bao buns filled with fluffy egg soufflé, crispy smoked bacon, crunchy garlic aioli, cucumber, and pickled red onion.

Tokyo Brunch: Meet Miru’s evolution of its signature Tokyo Breakfast: The Tokyo Brunch!

Choose from King Salmon, Flat Iron Steak or Shichimi Eggplant Skewer served with dashi tomago, miso soup, ginger rice and Japanese pickle.

Sweet Takes: Buttermilk Pancakes get a luxe, citrus-y spin with whipped yuzu ricotta and blueberries, while other sweets include Coconut Chia Pudding with compressed mango and raspberries and an enticing Pastry Basket featuring freshly baked croissants, pan au chocolat, cinnamon buns and more, meticulously crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Juan Gutierrez and his team.

From The Bar: New, brunchy beverages include The Queen with Roku Gin, juicy yuzu, honey, lemon, egg white and bee pollen, Spritz the Season with St. George Spiced Pear, Woodford Rye, Madeira, pomegranate, lemon, Lyre’s Classico and Rosemary, zero-proof options like the (Non-Alcoholic) Shiso Fresh with Matcha Shiso Cordial lime and Lyre Classico. A selection of Champagne and sparkling wine are also available at various price points, along with The St. Regis Chicago signature bloody mary, The 1871, made with F.E.W. Rye Whiskey, House Bloody Mary Mix, Fresh Dill and served smoking.

Miru is located in The St Regis Hotel: 401 E Wacker Drive in Chicago. Visit: lettuce.com for more information.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

BOOKSHELF Lidia’s From Our Family Table to Yours Authors: Lidia Matticchio Bastianich, Tanya Bastianich Manuali Publishers: Knopf ISBN-13: 978-0525657422 A personal collection of more than a hundred favorite family recipes—from Crespelle with Herb Pesto and Penne with Sausage, Mushrooms and Ricotta Vegetable Polpette, to Lidia’s Simple Roast Chicken and Mimosa Cake—from the best-selling, award-winning “doyenne of Italian cooking” (The New York Times) Nothing brings a family together like food. And no one knows food like Lidia Bastianich. In this inviting, deeply personal new cookbook, she shares the dishes she cooks for those she loves the most. This is the first book Lidia has written since the death of her mother, Nonna, who was beloved not just by Lidia’s family but by millions of cookbook and TV fans. With all the family stories and passed-down recipes, in many ways, this book can be seen as a tribute to Nonna.

This sincere, comforting cookbook features: • Traditional recipes that graced Lidia’s table as a young girl: Crespelle with Herb Pesto, Prosciutto and Onion Frittata, Rigatoni with Sausage and Cabbage and Penne with Sausage.

• New creations she makes for her family: Sweet Potato Chickpea Gnocchi with Gorgonzola, Cheesy Baked Chicken Wings, Mushrooms and Ricotta Vegetable Polpette Mimosa Cake.

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

Bringing together more than a 100 delicious, flavorful, and easy-to-make Italian recipes, From Our Family’s Table to Yours is a celebration of the dishes Lidia’s family turns to over and over—and yours will, too. This book is the nextbest thing to a seat at Lidia’s table!

Pure Michigan Invites Travelers to “Keep It Fresh” with Winter Ad Campaign

“Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.”

—Alexander Graham Bell

“Michigan is America’s ideal four-season travel destination, and we are proud to offer winter adventures and experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike,” said David Lorenz, VP of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Whether it’s skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, fat tire biking, or visiting our world-class museums and vibrant downtowns, Michigan is your winter playground.”

Michigan is home to more than 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails, 3,000 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, and ranks second in the nation for total number of ski areas and resorts, boasting everything from family-friendly learning areas to powder-filled slopes and the tallest vertical drop in the Midwest.

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Partnership Agreements Lease Negotiations Union Negotiations

Advertisers Have High Hopes for Super Bowl year for in-game advertis-

Buy/Sell Agreements

among Roblox, Sony and

ing following a recent rise in new game ad formats Microsoft, which expects gaming ad revenue to increase to $1.4 billion by 2030, up from $100 million in 2022. Anzu CEO Itamar

New 7.2 Oz Sacramento Tomato Juice Can Ideal for oversizing your Bloody Marys, Marias, and Micheladas for extra profit, new Sacramento Tomato Juice 7.2 oz. single-serve cans are here. This is the premium brand of tomato juice great steakhouses and bars prefer because Sacramento maintains it robust flavor, even when alcohol and ice are added. Also available in 46 oz. plastic jugs and cans. Be sure to tell them you want to try their 7.2 oz. single serve can. Request your free samples now at: redgoldfoodservice.com/sample-requests.

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Benedy says more brands began adding in-game ads to omnichannel media budgets in 2023, and notes efforts also are being propelled by the launch of IAB and MRC’s measurement guidelines.

– Source: AdExchanger

As the Year of the Dragon begins, the U.S. Postal Service commemor ates the Lunar Yew Year with a colorful new stamp. The Year of the Dragon begins Feb.10, 2024 and ends Jan. 28, 2025.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Subaru WinterFest 2024 will feature stops at six of the country’s top mountain resorts, where winter sports enthusiasts and Subaru owners can enjoy live music, food & beverage, gear demonstrations, select deserving charities to receive donations, and more. Visit: subaruwinterfest.com and follow #SubaruWinterFest.

American Airlines recently opened a $100 million catering facility to serve its hub at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). The 214,000-square-foot building is the largest airline catering kitchen in the country and is more than three times the size of a football field. Krispy Krunchy Chicken is one of the fastestgrowing foodservice solutions in the industry, and has tapped into a new momentum and secured its spot as a leader in the space with record-breaking success in 2023. The hot food concept is nearly 3,000 locations strong, aided by the opening of 481 new units in 2023. Chobani Acquires La Colombe. This entry into the high-growth ready-to-drink coffee category furthers Chobani’s evolution into a diversified, next generation food & beverage company. The combination of a highly complementary businesses provides additional long-term growth driver, multiple synergy opportunities and speed to scale. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, the Hawaii-based restaurant franchise, has opened five new locations in the fourth quarter of 2023. The locations are in Henderson, NV; Denver, CO; Arlington, TX; Tucson, AZ and Waikoloa Village, HI. The new openings serve as an indication of strong growth for Hawaii’s largest restaurant chain. Meijer opened Fairfax Market at 2190 E. 105th St. in Cleveland, OH. The new 40,000-square-foot market is part of a mixed-use neighborhood revitalization project being developed in partnership with the City of Cleveland, Cleveland Clinic, the Fairfax Renaissance Development Corporation and Fairmount Properties. PBS Wisconsin’s

Garden & Landscape Expo is a three-day event celebrating the latest trends in gardening, landscaping, local foods and ecological sustainability. The show will be held Feb. 9-11, 2024 at The Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin. Starbucks Coffee Company announced in Jan. 2024 that customers at all company-operated and participating licensed Starbucks Stores across the U.S. and Canada can use their clean personal cup when ordering in café, in the drive-thru or when ordering ahead with the Starbucks app. The Original Rainbow Cone, a Chicago tradition for over 97 years, plans to open a new franchise location at 126 Duvall St. in Key West, Florida in March 2024. The new franchise location will feature Rainbow Cone’s iconic ice cream treat.

This marks the second Rainbow Cone location in Florida. The global tomato ketchup market size reached US$ 18.9 Billion in 2022. Looking forward, the market is expected to reach US$ 23.2 Billion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.5% during 2022-2028-according to a report -researchandmarkets.com.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott, part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marks its landmark 500th hotel with the opening of TownePlace Suites Richmond Colonial Heights in Virginia, the state where the brand debuted its inaugural hotel in 1997.

Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) reported year-end 2023 U.S. sales of 2,248,477 vehicles, an increase of 6.6 percent on a volume basis and an increase of 7.0 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis compared to 2022.

Food Industry News® — February 2024

foodindustrynews.com

IHG Hotels & Resorts Opens First Garner Hotel Less than Three Months After Official Launch IHG Hotels & Resorts , one of the world’s leading hotel companies, recently opened the first Garner hotel less than three months after the midscale conversion brand’s launch. Located in the Seattle suburb of Auburn, Wash., Garner Auburn- Seattle’s accelerated conversion and reopening signifies owners’ recognition of the brand’s strength, revenue potential and offer for travelers in the midscale space.

The opening of Garner Auburn, Seattle is the first of several planned for the midscale conversion brand in the coming months. With a goal to expand globally in 2024, IHG expects the brand to reach an estate of more than 500 hotels during the next 10 years and 1,000 hotels during the next 20 years in the U.S. alone.

Choice Hotels International, Inc. launched its newest multichannel national marketing campaign, “A Stay for Any You.” The largest in Choice Hotels’ history, the campaign stars actor and writerKeegan-Michael Key. The campaign highlights some of the many reasons people travel and how with a diverse portfolio of 22 hotel brands — ranging from full-service upper upscale and upscale properties to midscale, extended stay and economy options, Choice is able to meet the needs of all travelers.

Keegan-Michael Key stars in “A Stay for Any You” campaign for Choice Hotels.

TGI Fridays Sells Eight Restaurants, Closes Poorly Performing Locations TGI Fridays announced the sale of eight previously corporate-owned restaurants in the Northeast to former CEO Ray Blanchette. With a focus on streamlining operations, TGI Fridays will also close a number of under-performing corporateowned restaurants.

“As we continue along our path of transformation to revitalize the Fridays brand and implement a long-term growth strategy, we see a bright future for TGI Fridays,” shared Weldon Spangler, CEO of TGI Fridays. “We are at the helm of a pivotal moment that will allow us to explore boundless advancement, expansion, and innovation to keep delivering “That Fridays Feeling” that our fans know and love.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Lab-Grown Meat May Be on More Menus According to findings from market research firm Datassential, 17% of consumers say they would be open to trying lab-grown meat. And according to Mintel’s Global Food and Drink Trends report, 34% of U.S. adults say highly processed food is a top concern of theirs when picking food which may be good indication for the future of lab-grown meats.

– Source: nrn

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The Background of Mardi Gras Mardi Gras Day is February 13, 2024. Mardi Gras is about music, parades, picnics, floats and excitement. It’s one big holiday in New Orleans! Revelers know to wear costumes or at least dress in purple, green, and gold and adorn themselves with long beads caught from the floats of previous parades.

Fat Tuesday is the last day of the Carnival season as it always falls the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent.

Mardi Gras and king cakes go hand in hand, especially in New Orleans where king cakes are enjoyed at parties, offices and homes every year. According to the Christian faith, Jesus first showed himself to the three wise men and to the world on January 6th, also known as Twelfth Night or the Epiphany.

The word “Epiphany “ is from the Greek word “to show.” This is the day Mardi Gras season – hence king-cake season begins. Each king cake has a tiny baby inside (generally plastic now, but it’s possible the baby might be made of porcelain or even gold).

The lucky person who receives the slice of cake with the baby has the next king cake party (or brings the next cake for the office).

– Source: mardigrasneworleans.com

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Cary Miller Presents:

PEOPLE SELLING THE FOOD INDUSTRY This month I am proud to be pictured with Jesús Ramos, Executive Chef at The Birchwood Club, one of the premier clubs on Chicago’s North Shore. Established in 1958, The Birchwood Club is a private, family-focused country club located in the heart of Highland Park, IL. Jesús is a culinarian who leads his team to strive for excellence and constant improvement.

Alex Romano, Robert Byrne and Jack Benson are with Heil and Heil Insurance, a Skokie, Il based agency that has a practice specializing in serving the food industry. These gentlemen are focused on working with all types of food businesses to help them protect their assets in case of a claim. Getting insurance is not only about the lowest rate; you need proper coverages and protections for when the unexpected happens. You also need a team to advocate for you and hold your hand during the claims process. When your policy comes up for renewal, or if you are experiencing issues with your underwriter or agent, be sure to contact Heil and Heil. With 139 years of protecting food businesses and their owners, they have the expertise needed to help you to succeed. You may see their ad on page 5.

Paulette Gagliardo, Andrea Caffrey and Mary Gura are with Des Plaines Il based Columbus Vegetable Oils. Founded in 1936 and now in its third generation of family operation, they are famous for providing the food industry with the highest quality vegetable oils and shortenings. From their humble beginnings in an Italian grocery store basement on Chicago’s west side, to their present 330,000 sq ft facility in Des Plaines, they have evolved into an unwavering force in the fats and oils industry, while remaining committed to the insistence of consistent high quality as demonstrated by their certifications, which include Certified Women Owned, SQF Certification, Non-GMO Project, OU Kosher, USDA Organic, Rainforest Alliance Certified, RSPOä (Certified Sustainable Palm Oil). If you want your food to taste better, use higher quality oils like those produced by Columbus. You may see their ad on page 11.

Ritchie Marketing Food Brokers recently expanded its team of foodservice professionals serving the Illinois and Wisconsin markets. Ritchie helps foodservice operators increase quality, menu innovation and provide labor saving solutions to help food business owners survive the current climate of labor challenges. This expanded team has over 100 years of combined foodservice experience with a deep understanding of restaurant operations and food production. The firm represents a variety of food product manufacturers which may be able to help you enhance your menu, excite your customers, and streamline your operation. They work with all food distributors and support their sales teams by helping food buyers strengthen their business. Pictured above is the Ritchie Marketing local team, which includes Diane Malenke, Lisa Jacobs, James Melnychuk, Tony DeBartolo and Tony Escobedo.

David Philgreen and Lamar Williams are with ARY Incorporated, a Kansas based firm bringing a unique collection of innovative brands and products to market. Each brand has its own identity and purpose. ARY’s VacMaster brand is a line of professional grade vacuum sealers which help foodservice operators save labor, reduce waste and improve quality. After nearly three decades of proven commercial success, the VacMaster brand has evolved to become the leader in chamber vacuum sealers, sous vide circulators, and food preparation accessories for the consumer market.

Food Industry News® — February 2024

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Food and Dining Forecast

In a challenging year for the restaurant industry, Culinary Visions highlights key insights shaping the future of food in America.

Here are the five key takeaways: Culinary Adventure Prevails: 76% of consumers identify as adventurous eaters, embracing culinary exploration both at home and in restaurants. 84% enjoy creativity in the kitchen, indicating a widespread interest in experimenting with ingredients.

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Collaboration Drives Innovation: Increased collaboration among chefs, development groups, retailers, farmers, and suppliers leads to innovative partnerships. Consumer interest is evident, with 71% finding the concept of a restaurant chef-curated grocery box appealing, and 72% expressing interest in chef-farmer meal kit collaborations.

Mindful Sourcing Matters: 79% of consumers prioritize understanding the origin and sustainability of their food and beverages. 63% prefer menu items specifying not only the country or region but also specific farms.

53% have changed patronage based on how restaurants treat their employees post-pandemic.

Food Fosters Community: Despite virtual interactions, 65% of consumers prefer in-person dining experiences with friends over virtual ones.

Everyday Convenience is Key: Resilient consumer lifestyles seek ease alongside f lavor, driving the industry to adopt intuitive technology, customized pickup/ delivery, eco-friendly packaging, and delicious options for both home and away.

United Natural Foods Releases 2024 Show Schedule United Natural Foods, Inc. released its updated selling show schedule for 2024. As part of UNFI’s mission to help customers and suppliers win in the marketplace, all UNFI selling shows will now showcase the full spectrum of products and services that better aligns with customer buying behavior, instead of focusing shows exclusively on natural and organic or conventional products. These new shows will support both the natural and conventional supplier as well as all grocery retail customer channels and positioning.

Page 29

UNFI Will Hold the Following Four Shows in 2024: • Spring and Summer West Selling Show San Diego, CA – February 7-8 • Spring and Summer Central and East Selling Show Orlando, FL – February 20-21 • Holiday and Winter East Selling Show Uncasville, CT – June 4 • Holiday and Winter Central and West Selling Show Minneapolis, MN – August 6-7

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Winter 2024: Focus, Forecast, Refresh and Warm Up

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United Van Lines 47th Annual National Movers Study Reveals Where and Why Americans Moved in 2023 United Van Lines recently released the company’s 47th Annual National Movers Study, which indicates Americans are moving eastbound and southbound – and relocating to less expensive areas with comparable amenities to larger metropolitans.

According to the results of the study, in the Midwest and West region of the U.S., an outbound moving trend continues. Illinois (61%), Michigan (58%) and California (58%) were all included among the top states with a high percentage of outbound moves in 2023. Additionally, North Dakota (61%) and Kansas (55%) significantly decreased in ranking and joined the top outbound states last year.

Moving Out – The Top Outbound States for 2023: 1. New Jersey 2. Illinois 3. North Dakota

4. New York 5. Michigan 6. California

7. Massachusetts 8. Kansas

“We are continuing to see the trend that Americans are moving to more affordable, lower-density areas across the country, with many heading to Southern states,” United Van Lines Vice President of Corporate Communications Eily Cummings said. “Movers are also becoming more strategic with their planning, as relocation continues to be driven by factors such as the price of housing, regional climates, urban planning and job growth.”

– Source: prnewswire

Black Rock Coffee Bar, a national boutique coffee chain announced an innovative addition to its premium drink offerings – Frozen Fuel Energy Drinks. Commencing now as a pre-launch in all Arizona and California stores, customers will get an early taste of Black Rock’s new Frozen Fuel lineup that features four distinctive flavors: Mai Tai, Teal, Purple Galaxy and POP. The pre-launch in Arizona and California marks the beginning of the nationwide rollout, with Frozen Fuel Energy Drinks becoming available sporadically across 120-plus stores spanning seven states (Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Texas and Washington).

Mars, the maker of some of the world’s most-loved candy products, has unveiled limited-edition Valentine’s Day offerings from M&M’S, Dove, and Ethel M Chocolates, as well as p er son a li zable options on MMS.com to help consumers spread love this Valentine’s Day.

The first few months of the year are historically slow periods for restaurants. Coming out of the busy holiday season can bring worry and doubt about what’s next. The concern is valid and merits attention and can be used to fuel planning and projects for building a productive new year.

Bill Lecos

Owner/Founder: Forklift Restaurant Consulting

Focus on the Present: Worry and tension about the unknowable future can be passed on to staff and then handed off to customers. When worry sets in, get busy.

• Assess the guest experience from the moment they approach the restaurant to the time they leave.

• What can be done to ensure guests have the best experience?

• Share goals and the overall vision for the restaurant. Generate conversations with the team, letting them know you can get through this time together. Ask employees for ideas on specials and alternative ways to attract new customers to keep them engaged.

Forecast: Plan for weekend upticks in business, upcoming holidays, and other special occasions like the launch of the outdoor café season. Detail-read POS reports and make quickresponse adjustments.

Refresh and Crosstrain: Use slower periods to update and cross-train staff to cover more areas and keep labor cost in check. Partner with vendors to conduct training and motivational seminars. Wine, beer, and food tastings along with training to build-in community engagement.

Warm Up: Meet each guest as though they are in your home and sincerely thank them for their visit. Encourage staff to interact with customers in a similar manner. Write notes to off-site catering customers and invite their feedback.

Additionally, write individual notes to employees; thanking them for their support throughout the year.

The post-holidays can be “the most wonderful time of the year” to sort through that pile of catalogues and mail, take an extra few days off, develop a new menu concept, or get to know customers and the staff better. Make Winter 2024 a fresh start for a productive and positive year.

– You can find the Forklift consulting ad on page 12.

Food Industry News® — February 2024

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Page 31

Choosing the Right Salt for Your Dish Salt is an essential element in any chef’s toolkit, and the wide range of available salt varieties can do much more than simply seasoning food, adding texture as well as flavor. Coarse kosher salt is a versatile kitchen staple, while delicate flakes of fleur de sel can be used to finish chocolate or caramel desserts, and the pebbly texture and minerality of sel gris work well with roasted meats and vegetables.

– The New York Times

National Safety Council Tips to Shovel Safely • Do not shovel after eating or while smoking.

• Take it slow and stretch out before you begin.

• Shovel only fresh, powdery snow; it’s lighter.

• Push the snow rather than lifting it.

• If you do lift it, use a small shovel or only partially fill the shovel.

• Lift with your legs, not your back.

• Do not work to the point of exhaustion.

• Know the signs of a heart attack, and stop immediately and call 911 if you’re experiencing any of them; every minute counts.

Don’t pick up that shovel without a doctor’s permission if you have a history of heart disease.

A clear driveway is not worth your life.

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NGA Show Las Vegas 2024 The NGA Show has been the place where independent grocers gather for more than 40 years, connecting supermarket retailers and wholesalers, food manufacturers and service providers from around the world to share innovative solutions and best practices that support and strengthen the independent supermarket channel. The NGA Show is produced and managed by Clarion Events as part of the Food & Beverage Group in partnership with the National Grocers Association. The show will be held March 10-12, 2024, at Caesars Forum Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Chameleon Organic Coffee, the original purveyors of consciously crafted bottled cold-brew coffee, announced it has entered into a licensing agreement with Girl Scouts of the USA, the largest girl-led organization in the world, to introduce delicious variations of Chameleon’s award-winning cold-brew, featuring Girl Scout Cookie inspired flavors, launching in the coming months.

BWH Hotels, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced a collaboration with Tesla to bring electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to properties throughout North America, with plans to expand internationally. Beginning in 2024, BWH Hotels will begin installing Universal Wall Connectors at selected hotels across North America. With the recent launch of Tesla’s Universal Wall Connector, the charging stations will be designed to seamlessly charge any North American vehicle model, expanding Tesla’s efforts to make a great charging experience available to all EVs.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

Nuggets

McKee Foods, maker of the beloved Little Debbie brand, is delighted to reveal two delightful additions to its Valentine’s Day lineup, accompanied by a charming packaging refresh that promises to capture hearts. Presenting the all-new Little Debbie Vanilla Mini Donuts and Big Pack Valentine Cakes - Vanilla, these delectable treats are poised to enchant taste buds and infuse an extra dash of sweetness into the season.

Thatcher Oaks Awnings Celebrates 40 Years in Business James Patten’s passion for customer service and vendor interactions, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, led him to start his own painting company.

He began Aztec Painting while attending the University of Arizona, where he discovered that he wasn’t as inclined toward academics as he was toward building relationships with people.

In 1984, After leaving college, James continued pursuing his passion of becoming an entrepreneur and opened Thatcher Oaks, an awning company he started and ran from his basement. The name Thatcher Oaks was inspired by two things, the house in which he worked was on Thatcher Avenue and because he serviced the Oak Park and the River Forest area.

Thatcher Oaks originally started by providing residential awnings, but quickly turned its efforts towards commercial awnings.

James’ dedication to quality and excellent customer service quickly gained him a reputation among local businesses. As the demand for his services grew, he expanded his team and moved the business out of his basement to a dedicated warehouse. Continuing to grow every year, in 2021 James moved his business to a 40,000 square-foot warehouse in Elmhurst.

Thatcher Oaks, Inc. is a well-known and reputable business in Chicagoland. The company provides a range of services, including awnings, vestibules, canopies, outdoor cafes and more!

With dedication to his craft and commitment to customers, James grew Thatcher Oaks into a successful business that continues to thrive. His story serves as an example of how passion and hard work leads to success in entrepreneurship.

– See Thatcher Oaks Awnings’s ad on page 4.

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Ales for ALS Roadtrip Across America—Over the coming months, Ales for ALS will be traveling across the country in an RV to connect with brewers and beer drinkers – all in support of ALS research. Bath & Body Works is a global leader in personal care and home fragrance, including top-selling collections for fine fragrance mist, body lotion and body cream, 3-wick candles, home fragrance diffusers and liquid hand soap. Looking for a Valentine’s gift stop in or visit them online.

Celebrity chef and best-selling author Carla Hall takes viewers on a global adventure to explore the unexpected roots of popular dishes within today’s American food culture on the original Max series, Chasing Flavor. Beginning on Feb. 1st, follow along with Carla’s curiosity about America’s most delicious dishes.

Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important and widely celebrated holiday in Chinese culture. Chinese New Year begins February 10, 2024-The Year of the Dragon.

In Chinese astrology, each new year is associated with one of 12 zodiac animals on a rotating cycle. Devour Indy, brought to you by the Indiana Restaurant and Lodging Association celebrates the vibrant restaurant industry, and features more than 100 restaurants offering unique, exciting, and value-priced menus. It is going on now through February 4, 2024.

Economic factors made 2023 a record year for motorists, but not in ways that helped most families’ household budgets.

The average price of a new car peaked at nearly $50,000 while the average age of cars on the road surpassed 12 years, a record, according to S&P. Michigan’s Mount Bohemia took top honors as the No. 1 ski

resort in North America in voting by readers of USA Today 10 Best.

Averaging more than 270 inches of annual snowfall and featuring the Midwest’s highest vertical drop at 900 feet, Mount Bohemia offers 585 acres of glades, chutes and tree-lined runs that are among the longest in the Midwest.

Restaurant365’s Annual State of the Industry Survey shows 57% of Restaurants are Planning to Expand in 2024. Survey reveals restaurants are planning investments in AI sales forecasting, back-of-house technology, and marketing and sales tools.

Skydeck Chicago has hosted over 1,300 proposals, weddings, vow renewals, and tens of thousands of romantic dates.

In addition to the unique ceremony, couples will have the opportunity to explore Willis Tower’s lower-level museum, a one-of-a-kind, Chicago-themed experience established in 2021.

Symbolizing love and growth, 1-800-Flowers.com named the graceful peony and the bold philodendron as its 2024 Flower and Plant of the Year. Also, the most popular Valentine’s Day flowers ordered are roses, lilies, tulips, gerbera daisies and orchids. The premier Culinary Experience is coming to the East Coast. Dotdash Meredith’s Food & Wine, Southern Living and Travel + Leisure announce the first-ever Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, presented by Explore Charleson, set to take place September 27 - 29, 2024 in Charleston, South Carolina.

Universal Destinations & Experiences, introduces Universal Kids Resort, the company’s first-ever theme park designed specifically for families with young children. Located in Frisco, Texas, this imaginative original resort brings the company’s innovative style of storytelling to a new, younger audience.

Food Industry News® — February 2024

Classifieds / Buyer’s Directory

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Page 34 CAKES & DESSERTS Chicago Sweet Connection Eli’s Cheesecake CALAMARI Fisherman’s Pride CANNOLI & CANNOLI PRODUCTS Lezza Spumoni & Desserts CARPET CLEANING Sexton Group Floor Care CARRY OUT PACKAGING Bulldog Packaging CARRYOUT & CATERING PACKAGING Alfa Restaurant Supply CASH & CARRY OUTLETS Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn CHAIRS Trendler Inc CHAIRS-COMMERCIAL Chicago Booth Waco Manufacturing CHARCUTERIE ITEMS Specialty Food Show CHEESECAKES Chad’s Cheesecake Eli’s Cheesecakes CHEESES Miyoko’s Creamery Specialty Food Show Wiscon - Caputo Cheese CHICKEN-PROGRAMS FSI/Foodservice Solutions CHILI Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Food Industry News CLEANING PRODUCTS C-Soap/CSI SuperClean CO2 MacCARB COFFEE ROASTERS Tec Foods Inc Tugboat Coffee COLD STORAGE McCook Cold Storage Perishable Distribution Solutions COMPRESSED GAS MacCARB CONDIMENTS Texas Pete CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES Capitol Construction Solutions CONSULTANTS - BBQ Pork Mafia Inc CONTRACT LABOR SERVICES All About Personnel Atlas Employment Services CONTRACT MANUFACTURING Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) COOKING EQUIPMENT Ramar Supply Co CORNED BEEF-FRESH Vienna Beef CORPORATE GIFTS Vienna Beef CPA FIRMS Apple Growth Partners CRACKERS Specialty Food Show CREDIT CARD PROCESSING CardConnect-Clover Systems CREPE BATTER Tec Foods Inc

Classifieds / Buyer’s Directory Page 15

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DAIRY-DISTRIBUTOR Instantwhip Chicago Page 26 DATABASE SOFTWARE CONSULTING IT Impact Inc Page 09 DELIVERY SERVICE Delivery First Page 20 DESSERT SUPPLIES Fox Valley Farms DESSERTS Chad’s Cheesecake Page 28 Chicago Sweet Connection Page 15 Eli’s Cheesecakes Fox Valley Farms DESSERTS-WHOLESALE Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 19 DIRECT MAIL PROGRAMS Food Industry News DISHWASHING & CHEMICALS C-Soap/CSI DISINFECTING SERVICES Sexton Group Floor Care Page 21 DISPOSABLE PACKAGING Wan Xing Lin Inc Page 12 DRAM SHOP INSURANCE Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 05 Viti Insurance DRAPERIES-CLEANING Sexton Group Floor Care Page 21 DUCT CLEANING Enviromatic Corp of America Page 06 Olympia Maintenance EGGS Meadowbrook Egg & Dairy Company EMPLOYEE HANDBOOKS Employco USA Page 27 EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEYS Rob Bernstein - Laner Muchin EMPLOYMENT LAW Laner Muchin ENERGY BROKER Century Energy Solutions Page 10 ETHNIC FOODS Kikkoman Sales USA Page 14 FILTERS-EXHAUST SYSTEMS Olympia Maintenance FIRE SUPRESSION SYSTEMS Fox Valley Fire & Safety FLOOR INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE Sexton Complete Floor Care Page 21 FOOD DISTRIBUTORS Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 02 Devanco Foods Page 16 Performance Foodservice Page 13 Anichini Brothers Chef’s Quality Meats Cugini Distribution Page 31 Olympia Food Industries Tec Foods Inc Wilkens Foodservice FOOD MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT DC Norris North Ameica FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY Create Inc Chicago Page 42 Food Photo Studio Page 30 FOOD PRODUCTS Devanco Foods Page 16 Elohi Strategic Advisors Matadorr Foods Miyoko’s Creamery Neil Jones Food Company Olympia Food Industries Specialty Food Show Texas Pete Wiscon - Caputo Cheese

773-235-5588 312-809-5456 312-900-9868 630-231-3005 708-932-8982 773-283-4430 773-736-7417 630-231-3005 708-547-5969 847-699-3300 888-908-5600 847-827-1188 773-648-0766 847-866-7400 847-432-1000 847-827-1188 800-325-8476 708-344-0344 773-523-8861 630-920-0000 312-342-7778 312-467-9800 630-817-3164 630-954-1244 708-344-0344 847-695-5990 847-827-1188 773-801-1600 847-228-7070 630-896-1991 312-644-8004 708-333-0880 708-695-9471 847-349-9358 773-638-5310 708-235-0788 231-632-4462 773-664-4024 630-283-0038 847-228-7070 559-663-8348 405-485-3567 262-705-5284 800-543-4356 847-349-9358 212-482-6440 716-913-7516 708-450-0074

Food Industry News® — February 2024 FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT A D E Foodservice Equipment DC Norris North America Losurdo Inc Thunderbird Food Machinery Zink Foodservice FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT-REPAIR CSI Cobblestone Ovens Ice Solutions 24 FOODSERVICE PACKAGING & DISPOSABLES Kranz Inc Division of Imperial Dade FOODSERVICE- LAYOUT & DESIGN Losurdo Inc Sarfatty Associates FOODSERVICE-EQUIPMENT PARTS CSI Cobblestone Ovens FOODSERVICE-SUPPLIES Ramar Supply Co Page 29 FORK LIFTS Voss Equipment Page 04 FRANCHISE-CONSULTANTS Big Sky Franchising Team FREEZERS-ALL TYPES Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 31 FRYERS FSI/Foodservice Solutions FURNISHINGS i2i Design Page 08 GAMING TERMINALS Aces Up Gaming GELATO Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 19 Fox Valley Farms GELATO EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Kool Technologies Page 20 GIARDINIERA E Formella & Sons Page 12 V Formusa Company GLASSWARE Schultz Supply GOURMET FOOD PRODUCTS Specialty Food Show GOVERNMENT INFORMATION Cook County Tresurers Office GRAND OPENING PROMOTIONS LED Billboard Trucks GREASE REMOVAL SERVICE Kaluzny Brothers Inc Mahoney Environmental Inc GREASE TRAP PUMPING SERVICE Tierra Environmental Page 29 Kaluzny Brotherrs Inc GREASE TRAP SERVICE Tierra Environmental Page 29 GREASE-EXHAUST CLEANING Enviromatic Corp of America Page 06 Olympia Maintenance GREEK FOOD PRODUCTS Devanco Foods Page 16 Olympia Food Industries GYROS Devanco Foods Page 16 Olympia Food Industries H/R-HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES Employco USA Page 27 HALAL FOOD PRODUCTS Devanco Foods Page 16 HAMBURGER PATTY MANUFACTURER Devanco Foods Page 16 HEALTH INSURANCE Employco USA Page 27 National Restaurant Association Page 43

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Food Industry News® — February 2024 HELIUM MacCARB Page 03 HOOD EXHAUST & FAN CLEANING Enviromatic Corp of America Page 06 Olympia Maintenance HOT DOGS Vienna Beef Page 41 Crawford Sausage Red Hot Chicago HOT SAUCE Texas Pete HVAC REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Giant Refrigeratioin ICE CREAM Homer’s Gourmet Ice Cream Page 16 Instantwhip Chicago Page 26 Fox Valley Farms ICE CREAM EQUIPMENT REPAIR & SUPPLY Kool Technologies Page 20 ICE CREAM-EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY Kool Technologies Page 20 ICE CREAM-YOGURT Instantwhip Chicago Page 26 ICE MACHINE REPAIR & SANITIZING Major Appliance Service ICE MACHINES-SALES-RENTAL OR LEASING Empire Cooler Service Page 06 Ice Solutions 24 INSURANCE Cacciatore Insurance Page 03 Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 05 ISU Northwest Insurance Services Nick DiDiana (Power 3 Insurance) Society Insurance Viti Insurance INSURANCE SERVICES Cacciatore Insurance Page 03 INSURANCE UNDERWRITTING Society Insurance INSURANCE-INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL Cacciatore Insurance Page 03 Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 05 INTERIOR DESIGNERS Perpetuum Designs Page 03 Sarfatty Associates INTERNET ADVERTISING Food Industry News ITALIAN BEEF Devanco Foods Page 16 Serrelli’s Foods Page 30 Red Hot Chicago ITALIAN FOOD SPECIALTIES E Formella & Sons Page 12 ITALIAN SAUSAGE Anichini Brothers JANITOR-SUPPLIES Ramar Supply Co Page 29 Kranz Inc Division of Imperial Dade JAPANESE-FOOD PRODUCTS Kikkoman Sales USA Page 14 JUICER REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Up ‘N Adam Service and Supply Inc JUICERS-FRUIT & VEGETABLES Berkel Midwest JUICES Youth Juice Page 29 JUICES - FRESH SQUEEZED Youth Juice Page 17 KETCHUP Red Gold Page 07 KITCHEN EQUIPMENT A D E Foodservice Equipment KITCHEN FLOORING Sexton Complete Floor Care Page 21

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Classifieds / Buyer’s Directory KITCHEN-EXHAUST SYSTEMS/CLEANING Enviromatic Corp of America Page 06 Olympia Maintenance LABEL PRINTERS Edwards Label Printing LABOR SAVING EQUIPMENT DC Norris North America LAW FIRMS Tuckey Law Page 24 Laner Muchin LINEN SUPPLY & RENTAL SERVICE Cosmopolitan Textile LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 05 Viti Insurance LOGISTICS COMPANIES Perishable Distribution Solutions MANUFACTURERS REPRESENTATIVES Zink Foodservice MATERIALS HANDLING EQUIPMENT Voss Equipment Page 04 MAYONNAISE Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 MEAT PROCESSING EQUIP SALES & SERVICE Berkel Midwest MEAT-SPECIALTY Specialty Food Show MEAT-WHOLESALE Devanco Foods Page 16 New S B L Inc Page 26 Park Packing Company Page 31 Anichini Brothers Chef’s Quality Meats International Meat Company MEATS -WHOLE PIGS-GOATS-LAMB Park Packing Company Page 31 MEDITERRANEAN FOODS Olympia Food Industries MENU DEVELOPMENT Bottomline Profits Consulting Page 25 MENUS-CUSTOM PRINTED Accurate Printing MILK Instantwhip Chicago Page 26 MOZZARELLA CHEESE Miyoko’s Creamery NEIGHBORHOOD MARKETING LED Billboard Trucks NITROGEN MacCARB Page 03 OILS & FATS-COOKING Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 OILS & SHORTENING Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 OILS & VINEGAR Pastorelli Foods Page 45 OILS-COOKING/BULK Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 OLIVE OILS Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 ORGANIC FOODS Pastorelli Foods Page 45 OUTSOURCED DELIVERY SERVICE Delivery First Page 20 OVENS-PIZZA N. American Pizza & Culinary Academy Page 40 Cobblestone Ovens OVENS-SALES & SERVICE Cobblestone Ovens PAINTING CONTRACTORS Sexton Group Floor Care Page 21 PALLET JACKS Voss Equipment Page 04

800-325-8476 708-344-0344 847-663-6600 231-632-4462 312-701-2200 312-467-9800 773-254-6100 847-866-7400 847-432-1000 888-491-1641 630-515-9300 708-596-7000 773-265-6500 800-921-9151 212-482-6440 847-228-7070 773-376-8280 773-254-0100 312-644-8004 708-333-0880 773-622-1400 773-254-0100 847-349-9358 773-470-8239 708-824-0058 773-235-5588 262-705-5284 312-924-7979 877-427-2499 773-265-6500 773-265-6500 800-SOS-AUCY 773-265-6500 773-265-6500 800-SOS-AUCY 312-900-9868 630-395-9958 847-635-0172 847-635-0172 847-827-1188 708-596-7000

Page 35 PANCAKE-BATTER & MIX Tec Foods Inc PAPER-PRODUCTS Ramar Supply Co Page 29 Alfa Restaurant Supply PARTY-FAVORS & SUPPLIES Ramar Supply Co Page 29 PASTA-FRESH AND FROZEN Pastafresh Home Made Pasta Page 26 Cugini Distribution Page 31 PASTRIES Chicago Sweet Connection Page 15 PATIO ENCLOSURES Thatcher Oaks Awnings Page 04 PATIO HEATERS TNG Industries Page 08 PATTY MACHINES/FOOD FORMERS Berkel Midwest PAYROLL SERVICES Employco USA Page 27 ADP Toast POS PEST CONTROL Rose Pest Solutions Page 28 PHOTOGRAPHY Food Photo Studio Page 30 All Events Photography PICKLES & RELISH Vienna Beef Page 41 PITA BREAD Olympia Food Industries PIZZA CONSULTANTS N.A. Pizza & Culinary Academy Page 40 PIZZA SAUCE Neil Jones Food Company PIZZA SAUSAGE Anichini Brothers PIZZA SUPPLY DISTRIBUTORS Anichini Brothers PLANT BASED FOOD PRODUCTS Elohi Strategic Advisors POINT OF SALE SUPPLIES Alpha POS Services Inc POINT OF SALE SYSTEMS Alpha POS Services Inc Shift4 Toast POS PORK PRODUCTS Park Packing Company Page 31 Illinois Pork Prodcers Association Peer Foods POS SYSTEMS Alpha POS Systems Inc CardConnect-Clover Systems Shift4 SpotOn Inc TEEPOS POS SYSTEMS-CLOUD BASED Alpha POS Services Inc Shift4 Toast POS POULTRY-FRESH New S B L Inc Page 26 PRESSURE WASHING Olympia Maintenance PRINTING-CUSTOM ITEMS Accurate Printing PRIVATE LABEL FOOD MANUFACTURERS E Formella & Sons Page 12 PROMOTIONAL MARKETING LED Billboard Trucks PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE Heil & Heil Insurance Agence Page 05 Society Insurance

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Page 36 PROPERTY - TAX - REAL ESTATE LAW Reveliotis Law PC Page 41 PUBLISHING Food Industry News RACKING-PALLET Voss Equipment Page 04 RE-UPHOLSTERY Chicago Booth Page 06 REAL ESTATE LAW Reveliotis Law PC Page 41 REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT REPAIR Kool Technologies Page 20 CSI REFRIGERATION SERVICE Ice Solutions 24 REFRIGERATION SERVICE & REPAIR Giant Refrigeration REFRIGERATION-EQUIP/COMMERCIAL Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 31 Schultz Supply RESTAURANT CONSULTANTS Bottomline Profits Consulting Page 25 Fork Lift Restaurant Consultants Page 12 Stanovich Hospitality RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT Wood Food Systems Page 10 DC Norris North America FSI/Foodservice Solutions Losurdo Inc Schultz Supply RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 31 Federal Supply USA Page 19 Ramar Supply Co Page 29 Alfa Restaurant Supply Berkel Midwest Schultz Supply RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT PARTS CSI RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR CSI Up ‘N Adam Service and Supply Inc RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR SERVICE Berkel Midwest Cobblestone Ovens Major Appliance Service RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT-NEW & USED K & L Liquidation Page 28 March Quality Used & New Equip Page 46 RESTAURANT INSURANCE Society Insurance RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE Toast POS RESTAURANT REAL ESTATE SALES John Moauro/Realty Executives Nick Dibrizzi/Coldwell Banker Ted Aretos/ Eatz & Associates Vince Ferraro/Pontarelli & Associates RESTAURANT-DESIGNERS Losurdo Inc Sarfatty Associates ROOF TOP GREASE CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS Enviromatic Corp of America Page 06 ROOFS-SALES-REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Care Sheet Metal & Roofing Page 22 SALAD-DRESSINGS Ken’s Foods Page 48 SALAD-DRESSINGS & OILS Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 Tec Foods Inc SANITATION CERTIFICATION Illinois Restaurant Association Page 18 SATELLITE TV SYSTEMS All Sports Direct

Classifieds / Buyer’s Directory 312-230-0160 847-699-3300 708-596-7000 773-378-8400 312-230-0160 630-483-2256 888-908-5600 847-987-9738 773-539-9629 630-879-3131 708-652-2020 773-470-8239 312-493-6310 708-359-1911 847-949-9663 231-632-4462 847-719-6088 630-833-4650 708-652-2020 630-879-3131 847-623-1310 708-233-0808 773-588-6688 800-921-9151 708-652-2020 630-941-7070 888-908-5600 877-876-2326 800-921-9151 847-635-0172 708-447-4100 847-854-9913 800-210-5895 888-576-2438 857-301-6002 708-361-1150 708-562-9328 815-761-8334 847-778-3571 630-833-4650 847-920-1100 800-325-8476 708-387-9784 800-633-5800 773-265-6500 773-638-5310 312-787-4000 630-918-3000

SAUSAGE Vienna Beef Page 41 Anichini Brothers Crawford Sausage Red Hot Chicago SCALES Berkel Midwest SEAFOOD Fisherman’s Pride Page 23 SEATING Trendler Inc Page 10 Waco Manufacturing SELF-SERVICE ORDERING KIOSKS Alpha POS Services Inc SEWER (MAINT) -RODDING & JETTING Tierra Environmental Page 29 SHAKE MIX Fox Valley Farms SHIPPING-REFRIGERATED & FROZEN Perishable Distribution Solutions SHORTENING Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 SIGNAGE-INDOOR & OUTDOOR American Graphics & Signs Inc Page 14 SLICERS - AUTOMATED CES Nationwide SLICERS-SALES & SERVICE Berkel Midwest SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING Create Inc Chicago Page 42 SOFT DRINKS PepsiCo Foodservice SOFT SERVE-ICE CREAM/EQUIP & SUPPLIES Kool Technologies Page 20 SOFT SERVICE MIX Fox Valley Farms SOFTWARE PROGRAMS - CUSTOM IT Impact Inc Page 09 SOUP BASES Tec Foods Inc SOUPS Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) Page 41 Vienna Beef Page 41 SOUS - VIDE COOKING EQUIPMENT DC Norris North America SPECIALTY FOODS DISTRIBUTOR Specialty Food Show SPICES Tec Foods Inc SPIRITS R Jelinek Midwest STAFFING-SERVICES All About Personnel Page 05 Atlas Employment Services Page 17 STEAM CLEANING Olympia Maintenance SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT CES Nationwide SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT REPAIR Up ‘N Adam Service and Supply Inc SUPERMARKET- EQUIPMENT/ NEW & USED Berkel Midwest TABLES - DINING ROOM i2i Design Page 08 TABLES-ALL TYPES Chicago Booth Page 06 Waco Manufacturing TAMALES Supreme Frozen Products TAX APPEALS (PROPERTY) Reveliotis Law PC Page 41 TAX PAYMENTS Cook County Treasurers Office

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Food Industry News® — February 2024 TEMPORARY STAFFING All About Personnell Atlas Employment Services THEATERS AND VENUES Onesti Entertainment Corporation THIRD PARTY DELIVERY SERVICE Delivery First TOMATO PRODUCTS Pastorelli Foods Red Gold Neil Jones Food Company TRADE PUBLICATIONS Food Industry News TRADE SHOWS & EVENTS Specialty Food Show Winter Fancy Food Show TRUCK BODIES-SALES & REPAIR Paramount Truck Body TRUCK GRAPHICS American Graphics & Signs Inc UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Sexton Group Floor Care VEGAN CHEESE Miyoko’s Creamery VEGAN FOOD PRODUCTS Miyoko’s Creamery VEGETABLES-FIRE ROASTED Neil Jones Food Company VEHICLE WRAPS Paramount Truck Body VENTILATING-SYTEMS CLEANING Enviromatic Corp of America Olympia Maintenance WAFFLE-BATTER & MIX Tec Foods Inc WALK-IN COOLERS AND FREEZERS Custom Cooler & Freezer WATER HEATERS / BOILERS U S Water Heating Solutions WEBSITE DESIGN Americaneagle.com WEDDING CAKES Ideal Bakery WELDING & FABRICATING KOP Ind. Welding & Fabrication WHIPPED CREAM Instantwhip Chicago WIND SCREENS Thatcher Oaks Awnings WOOD FLOOR CARE Sexton Group Floor Care WORKERS COMP INSURANCE Employco USA Heil & Heil Insurance Agenncy Nick DiDiana (Power 3 Insurance) Society Insurance Viti Insurance YOGURT & SOFT SERVE EQUIPMENT Kool Technologies

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Don’t Rely On Others To Promote Your Business CALL TODAY: 847-699-3300 Get Listed in Our Directory Today ONLY $375 PER YEAR – Includes many extras.

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Classifieds / Businesses for Sale

Food Industry News® — February 2024

Event Co-Sponsors

Food Industry News® — February 2024

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

‘Fotos Group’ continued from cover

Get in front of new and established, hard-to-reach owners, buyers, managers and chefs.

We make it easy. Call 847-699-3300.

North America’s Premier Culinary Academy for Pizza and Italian Cuisine Commercial Product R & D Pizzaioli Certification Traditional and Gluten-Free Recipe Development Equipment Consulting and Sales Professional Seminars and Group Training Corporate Team Building 1970 University Lane, Lisle, IL

630-395-9958

PizzaCulinaryAcademy.com

Southern Cafe has locations in Roselle and St, Charles, and is home to the Nasty Biscuit, Gumbo-laya- (a cross of Gumbo and Jambalaya) and shrimp and grits. They are known for their generous portions and hearty breakfasts.

Southern Kitchen is their newest concept located in Arlington Heights. The concept features Southern breakfast favorites along with “flavor jacked” dishes created

by Chef Frank. Their tag line reads – “Southern never Hot Honey Chicken Thigh tasted so good!”

Sandwich: Southern Belle’s Briki Cafe is located in Addison, open for breakfast (weekends only), lunch and dinner. Known for their loukoumades (Greek Donuts) which have won several awards.

If you didn’t know, this is a very popular treat often made and sold at Greek festivals. Also on the menu is a hand stacked gyros made in house. Briki partners Steve Fotos, Nutela Loukoumades Frank Georgacopoulos and Brandon Kratz took family at Briki Cafe favorites and complimented them with warm décor and attentive service resulting in an inviting experience rich with food, friendship and hospitality.

Millhurst Charhouse & Banquet is located in Oakbrook Terrace, which is also an elegant favorite for meetings, weddings, and banquets and events.

The Fotos Group has a deep passion of food and culinary experiences. Their brands are a constant daily, The Gyro plate at Briki weekly, monthly, yearly experience where they are looking The Fotos Group Leadership to better that message to • Steve Fotos: Founder/Partner • Frank Georgacopoulos: Executive Chef, Groups Consultant, their patrons. They source Partner: Southern Belle’s, the best possible ingredients Southern Kitchen, and Briki Cafe and are not afraid to push the • Sophia Kouvelis: Partner, The Southern Cafe Brand envelope. They have taken • Anthony Malamis: Partner, The Southern Belle’s Brand the culinary chances others • Harold Oliver: Partner, The Southern Belle’s Brand may hesitate on and it’s the • Arry Marinakos: Partner, The Southern Kitchen Brand • Brandon Kratz: Partner in Briki Cafe reason for their success.

Food Tech Investments Ended Up Positive

Though investments in food tech startups declined in 2023, deal sizes and valuations hit record highs with a median deal of $4 million – up 33% from the 2022 median – and the median valuation reaching $23.6 million, representing a nearly 60% increase over the previous year. Online grocery platforms and alternative protein companies were among the largest deals.

– Source: Food Business News

Taco Bell Expands its Cravings Menu

Taco Bell is launching a 10-item Cravings Value Menu, with six new menu items and a customizable vegetarian menu deal in an expansion of its emphasis on value, according to a recent press release. Customers can order from the Cravings Value Menu across the company’s channels, while the vegetarian menu deal is only available to order online or in-app. The vegetarian combo is a permanent menu addition, while the new items attached to the Cravings Value Menu are available while supplies last, according to the press release.

This value play is part of Taco Bell’s push drive more traffic. The chain is well positioned to offer value items, as other QSRs are raising prices in response to lingering inflationary conditions and to offset regional labor cost increases.

– Source: Restaurant Dive

Food Industry News® — February 2024

BOOKSHELF Murder Across The Ocean Author: Charlene Wexler Publisher: Speaking Volumes ISBN-13: 979-8890220011 Seventy-something American Lori Brill thought she’d have a pleasant vacation in London visiting her granddaughter, Cate.

Lori’s trip started out even better than she could have imagined when she ran into Josh, her old highschool boyfriend—resulting in an unexpected night of passion in a London hotel room. Lori was all smiles as she stepped out of the shower the next morning—until she saw his bloody corpse lying in the bed where they had made love only a few short hours before.

The case becomes more complicated when it is discovered that international ladies’ man and real estate mogul Josh has swindled millions of dollars from hundreds of people—a fact that broadens the case beyond the Scotland Yard team led by Inspector Geoffrey Holmes and brings in American FBI agent Jordan Gould.

So who killed Josh? Was it British mobsters, led by the evil Roland McKeifer, who kidnap Lori in an attempt to find Josh’s hidden millions? Was it Baron Braun, who summons Lori to Germany to tell her a 70-year-old secret? Was it someone whose money had been stolen or heart had been broken by Josh?

Or was it someone else? Find out in Murder Across the Ocean.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

CHEF PROFILE Robert Sajdak Orchards Restaurant at Orchard Valley Golf Course 2411 W Illinois Ave, Aurora, IL 60506 Birthplace: Chicago Current Position: Executive Chef.

First Foodservice Job: The Assembly.

Favorite Food: Asian.

Awards/Honors: Silver medal award from Aramark.

Memorable Customers: Michael Jordan.

Worst Part of Job: Employee attendance.

Since the unveiling and subsequent launch, the all-new Toyota Prius/Prius Prime has earned high praise and accolades throughout the auto industry. The vehicle responsible for starting the hybrid revolution nearly 25 years ago earned one of the most coveted awards in the automotive sector – the 2024 North American Car of the Year.

Home Run Inn, a beloved name in the world of pizza, unveiled a culinary masterpiece that will redefine your taste experience: the Home Run Inn Pizza Spice, a tantalizing blend that's anything but pizza. As a brand committed to delivering delicious, highquality food for over 70 years, Home Run Inn is thrilled to expand its horizons with a product that reimagines tra- Home Run Inn Pizza Spice a delectable Italianditional pizza adds inspired twist to your Bloody flavors in a whole Mary, infusing it with savory flavors reminiscent of a clasnew way. sic pizzeria.

Deadline for the May NRA Show Issue is 3/15/24

Most Humorous Kitchen Mishap: Dish person setting off Ansil fire prevention system.

Favorite Food to Prepare: Pastries.

What part of the job gives the most pleasure? A busy rush with all guest being satisfied.

If you couldn’t be a chef, what would you be and why?

A bartender, so I could get the chef hammered every night until he was fired so I could apply for his job!

Best advice you ever got was: Don’t back down.

Where do you like to vacation? Las Vegas.

What do you enjoy most about FIN? Keeps us up to date with my industry.

Who was your greatest culinary influence?

Chef Jack Doherty.

Premium Tea at High-End Retail Firebelly, the premium, functional loose leaf tea brand founded by David Segal – owner of Canadian retail chain DavidsTea – is entering Bloomingdale’s and other highend stores after launching online. “2022 was our first full year since the launch, and we’re more than doubling [our revenue] every year,” shared Segal.

– Source: Forbes

Weird Yerba Tea Adds Two New Themed Flavors to Lineup

Reserve Your Ad Space Today!

Call 847-699-3300

Weird Beverages has gained licensing rights from The Grateful Dead to add two Grateful Dead-themed flavors to its ready-to-drink Weird Yerba tea lineup and feature the band’s name and logo in marketing. The Grateful Grapefruit and Mystical Mint flavors debuted January 1 in cans displaying a slightly tweaked version of the band’s iconic dancing bears.

– Source: BevNet

Food Industry News® — February 2024

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aAWAITS sensory experience IN CHICAGO Be where food trends come to life.

At the 2024 National Restaurant Show, you’ll find everything you need to plate up success for your operations — now and into the future. Whether you’re looking to adapt your offerings to satisfy shifting diner expectations, seamlessly navigate razor-thin margins or integrate data-backed strategies to offset labor challenges, the Show has your missing ingredient.

When it comes to staying on top of what’s happening in foodservice — and ahead of what’s next — there’s no place like the Show. Join your peers from across the industry in Chicago, May 18-21, 2024, at the Western Hemisphere’s largest and most trusted foodservice event.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER TODAY.

How to Prevent Food from Sticking to Stainless-Steel Skillets Love the sear of a stainless skillet but prefer to skip the scrubbing after the peppers meld to the bottom midway through cooking? A little more oil should help, but don't just pour it over the top of the food or you'll end up with a greasy, soggy mess. Heated oil on a hot pan creates a slick, nonstick surface, guaranteeing a surefire sauté. Do it this way in three easy steps.

Step 1. Use a metal spatula to loosen the vegetables or meat, and then push them to one side of the skillet.

Step 2. Tilt the pan so the empty area is over the heat.

Step 3. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons oil to the empty area and let it get hot before moving the food back.

– Source: Real Simple

Culver’s Thank You Farmers Project Celebrates 10 Years, Reaches $5 Million In Donations Culver’s Thank You Farmers Project celebrated its tenth year by reaching a major milestone: $5 million in total funds raised to support the mission of advocating for the positive impact agriculture has on the world. This achievement includes a single-year-record $1 million raised in 2023 through systemwide and local charitable initiatives alike.

Wiseacre Brewing Company is rolling into 2024 with two new product launches: Hop Zip, a non-alcoholic, hop-infused sparkling water, and Sky Dog, a 99-calorie premium lager that will offer a delicious flavor profile while targeting a price point lower than most craft brews. Both will cater to the evolving preferences of health – and budget-conscious consumers and craft beverage enthusiasts.

New Cheez-It Extra Crunchy is here to satisfy obsession with an absurdly Amped Up Snacking Experience. Available in two new varieties, Cheez-It Extra Crunchy fuses together the 100% real cheese taste fans love with an intensified crunchy texture and flavor.

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

It’s Worth Your Time Any Way You Slice It.

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Explore aisles of hot ideas and vendors that will help take your business to the next level.

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Valentine’s Day Foods Consumers Love As Valentine’s Day approaches, love is certainly in the air, and on thousands of U.S. restaurant menus.

The prevalence of the word “love” found everywhere from a meat-lovers pizza to a “From Russia with Love” cocktail — has slipped by 2% from both a year ago, but it still appears on nearly a quarter of menus overall.

What ingredient matches best with love, you ask? You may be surprised.

Sausage is the ingredient that love is paired with most on menus, at 25.9%, followed by pizza, bacon, pepperoni and

You can advertise, or you can allow your competition to tell customers what to think about you.

ham (critical toppings on a meat lover’s pizza.) But there are plenty of others.

“Heart” is on 21% of menus – with ingredients like hearts of palm, artichoke hearts, or a heart-shaped donut or pizza.

And “Valentine” is on less than 1% of menus – but the holiday is still important for foodservice operators to lure in crowds of couples and groups alike looking for a special occasion in the midst of what for much of the country are the final throes of winter.

– Source: Datassential

Rainbow of Peppercorns Offer Flavor Variety Peppercorns imbue dishes from au poivre sauce to congee and cacio e pepe with heat and a floral, fruity flavor. Green, black, and white peppercorns are most common in recipes and bestow distinct flavors, as do pink and Sichuan varieties, which are not related to true peppercorns.

– Source: Bon Appetit

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Food Industry News® — February 2024

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Menus to Focus on Portions, Prices

Some restaurants are tweaking portion sizes and prices in an effort to maintain check averages as food and labor costs climb and cost-conscious diners often opt to share fewer items. “We needed to position the menu in a way that made sense for us financially while understanding that people come here to share with their friends,” said Kylie Monagan of Civetta Hospitality, which updated the menu at Calissa in Water Mill, N.Y., to feature small plates geared toward individual diners as well as higher-priced dishes intended for sharing amongst groups.

– Source: The Wall Street Journal

Texture Affects Food Choices US consumers have grown quite adventurous when it comes to exploring new flavors, and restaurant chains have fed those cravings with new and limited-time menu items, but the same can’t be said for exploring new textures, menu trends expert Nancy Kruse writes. Crispy, crunchy foods and smooth, creamy textures have proven the most pleasing to American diners’ palates, according to Technomic data, while foods with slimy or spongy textures have yet to prove popular in the US.

Korean Foods Trend to Stay Hot Many US diners are familiar with Korean ingredients and dishes such as gochujang and bibimbap, and Korean cuisine is expected to remain in the spotlight next year with dishes like K-ramen, a spicier version of the familiar Japanese-style noodle dish, according to Technomic’s 2024 Global Restaurant Trends Forecast. Other trends to keep an eye on: plant-based foods’ growing role in international cuisines, an increase in solo diners and the rise of diverse menus to please all patrons.

– Source: Restaurant Business

Mark Your Calendars: 2024 Shmoozefest Dates Monday, March 4 Monday, June 3 Monday, Sept. 9 Monday, Dec. 2 Vendors: Reserve Your Co-Sponsorships Now!

Margaritaville’s First Ski Resort Now Open Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe is now open in South Lake Tahoe, marking the newest addition to the Margaritaville portfolio and the brand’s first ski destination resort.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the 399-suite property stands as the only all-suite resort hotel in the Lake Tahoe basin, promising a memorable escape for guests seeking the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

“We’re thrilled to officially open our doors and introduce the Margaritaville lifestyle to the South Lake Tahoe community as well as visitors to our beautiful destination,” said Bob Jensch, Managing Director of Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe. “We look forward to welcoming guests to our slice of paradise in the mountains.”

Located in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe is within walking distance of some of the area’s top attractions, including Heavenly Mountain Gondola, the newly completed Tahoe Blue Event Center, and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe.

Following over a $70 million property-wide reimagination, the newly rebranded resort infuses Margaritaville’s classic island vibe with a distinctive Lake Tahoe charm. Perfect for families or groups, each casual-luxe suite starts at 511 square feet, boasting stunning views of the lake or mountains and featuring separate bedroom and living room spaces with a dining table and wet bar. Additional design elements adapt the property for all four seasons and thoughtful details reflect the destination, including the year-round heated pool that features sliding doors to a patio offering views of the surrounding mountain landscape during the warmer months.

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe features five unique dining establishments, including the lobby’s License to Chill Bar, LandShark Bar & Grill, Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions, Come Monday Café, and JWB Prime Steak and Seafood. Offering a delightful array of island-inspired beverages and delectable cuisine, the dining experiences at the resort are set to become the go-to options for locals and visitors alike in South Lake Tahoe. And whether for après-ski or happy hour, regular live music performances will enhance the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurants.

With over 14,000 square feet of flexible indoor-outdoor event space, a central location in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, and a tropical aesthetic all its own, Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe is a compelling location for meetings, events, and festivities of all kinds. Featuring a ballroom, several meeting spaces, a private dining room, flexible facilities and amenities, and a dedicated event team, the resort is a one-stop-shop to completely customize any gathering, whether it be a productive team meeting or a stylish wedding celebration.

For more information, visit- margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-resort-lake-tahoe.

Margaritaville features over 40 hotels and resorts, gaming properties, RV destinations, a cruise line, and over 150 food and beverage venues – as well as real estate communities, a satellite radio station on SiriusXM, consumer lifestyle products, and more. In 2023, Margaritaville Hotels & Resorts was ranked #1 in Guest Satisfaction among Upper Upscale Hotel Brands in the J.D. Power 2023 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction

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