Igniting Flavor: John Manion’s Mastery of Live-Fire Cooking
El Che Steakhouse & Bar and Brasero known for live-fire cooking, all began when John Manion moved to Sao Paulo, Brazil when he was eight years old . With his family he spent the following five years soaking in the culture and, most importantly, the food of a place very far from home. Chef John Manion brings decades of experience to both his concepts: El Che, and Brasero. Manion’s passion for South American flavors animates the spirited dishes and sultry ambiance of his restaurants throughout the years.
El Che Steakhouse & Bari is Executive Chef/Partner John Manion’s homage to Argentina’s beloved asados, those traditional
backyard barbecues featuring platters of rustic flame-finished grilled beef. This Argentinianinfluenced steakhouse, located just beyond the West Loop’s famed “restaurant row,” has built a reputation as Chicago’s go-to destination for beef, wine and live-fire cooking.
A 12-foot custom-built grill serves as the inspiration for El Che’s menu, which includes South American-tinged meats, seasonal vegetables, seafood and novel barrio-inflected snacks. Its heat - both figuratively and literally - can be felt throughout the restaurant, especially at the Chef’s Counter and Hearth Table located directly in front of it.
El Che Steakhouse & Bar
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Food Network’s
Chicago's Best-Loved Pierogi for over 30 years!
Salon 61: Lettuce Entertain You’s Latest Venue in River North
“We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.”
– Cynthia Ozick
Food Network viewers and legions of Harry Potter fans are going to have an extra special holiday season this year with the premiere of new series, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, on Thursday, November 14 at 8pm ET/PT and globally on Max where the platform is available (with further broadcasters to be announced). Capitalizing on the enduring love for Harry Potter – a global phenomenon that continues to captivate people of all ages around the world – the ground-breaking series blends legendary storytelling and fantastical edible creations in a never-before-seen competition that will have audiences at the edge of their seats.
Salon 61 is the newest private event space from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood at 61 W. Hubbard Street. This chic new venue, perfect for hosting weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate and social events, will join other Lettuce event spaces including RPM Events, 167 Events, The Dalcy and The Ivy Room. Salon 61 will offer guests an opportunity to curate a menu for their next event that features the best of Lettuce Entertain You, including signature dishes across several Lettuce brands such as RPM Seafood, Sushi-san and more. Salon 61 offers 3,900 square feet of space and can accommodate parties of up to 125 guests for a seated event or 300 for a cocktail-style reception. The venue features two large rooms, each with unique decor and character. The Library, perfect for a cocktail hour, welcome drinks and more, offers an intimate setting with warm, wood-paneled walls and
P.F. Chang’s Global Expansion Includes Airport Locations
P.F. Chang’s continues its dynamic expansion with the addition of five new franchise locations in major airports worldwide. Following openings in Washington D.C. (DCA), Salt Lake City (SLC) and Bengaluru (BLR) in 2023, then Seattle (SEA) in June 2024, P.F. Chang’s in partnership with Alsea, has opened another location at the Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) just this month. Additionally, a Letter of Intent has been signed with franchise partner, Four Leaf Ventures, LLC with plans to open a P.F. Chang’s in Terminal A at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in 2025. This expansion is part of the brand’s commitment to providing travelers with a unique Pan-Asian dining experience known for its quality and freshness.
Trends in Chocolate Consumption
New NCA Report Reveals Latest Consumer Trends in Chocolate Consumption Consumers’ strong emotional connection to chocolate persisted throughout the past year, according to a new report from the National Confectioners Association. Chocolate accounted for $21.4 billion in confectionery sales – a new high– over the last year, with 65% of consumers turning to chocolate as an affordable treat. Despite increased food costs and economic uncertainty, Americans are leaving room in their budgets to treat themselves and others to chocolate.
Chocolate makes up the largest segment of the $48 billion confectionery category. While volume and unit sales have fallen in recent years, consumers continue to seek out and enjoy chocolate throughout the year – especially around the big four seasons (Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, and the winter holidays), accounting for 65% of total sales.
• Available Direct and Thru Distributors
• Gluten-Free Options
• All-Natural Choices
• Seasonal Flavors
Family Owned & Operated Since 1935
Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam Now Available in Gallons
Get ready to transform your menu with the bold, sweet heat of Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam – now available in gallon sizes for foodservice.
This isn’t just another condiment; it’s a game-changer for chefs and restaurateurs looking to add a unique twist to their dishes.
or crafting a special event menu, this jam’s versatility makes it the secret weapon your team needs.
The gallon-sized jars are perfect for high-volume kitchens, providing enough jam to experiment with and add depth to various menu items— without running out mid-service. Its balance of sweetness and heat creates a memorable experience that elevates every menu item, turning classic dishes into something that customers cannot get any where else except at your establishment.
Imagine the possibilities: a sweet and spicy glaze on grilled chicken or ribs, a flavorpacked marinade for seafood, or a signature sauce drizzled over roasted veggies.
With Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam in bulk, you can craft memorable dishes that keep customers coming back. Whether you’re running a busy kitchen
Are you ready to give your customers something truly exciting? Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam in gallon sizes delivers the quality, quantity, and bold flavors your foodservice operation deserves. Try it today and watch your repeat sales soar. To contact them for a sample presentation, you can find their phone number in our directories under “Pepper Jam”
Episcope Hospitality’s Two New Concepts
Episcope Hospitality, founded and led by David Morton of the Morton’s Steakhouse family, is thrilled to announce two new culinary concepts: Hearsay and Perks – both set to open this fall in Phoenix’s surging Biltmore neighborhood within the reimagined Esplanade. The new restaurant and coffee café mark the latest expansions for Episcope Hospitality, which has developed and operates a collection of bespoke hospitality concepts throughout America including Chicago, New York City, Las Vegas, Houston and more.
The GR Corolla line up is expanding for model year 2025 with the addition of the of the available 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) with paddle shifters. Now there is an option for both hardcore enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of a manual transmission and those who’d rather focus on dynamic handling in the automatic transmission.
DINING WITH
November 2024
EL REY • 916 S. Cesar Chavez Dr. MILWAUKEE, WI 414-643-1640. This is a family owned Hispanic grocery store. As you walk in, the bakery catches your attention with tempting treats. Their produce department was beautiful and in the back of the store there was a restaurant. The aisles were jammed packed with product. You can find so many different kinds of spices, canned goods, sauces and unique brands you might not see in your local grocer. They had a Western Union and a Post Office in the store and so much more. Along with my other groceries, I had to pick up some of their El Rey corn tortillas and Tostaditas Chips. Those chips were so good, crispy and light and I loved the torillas. They have a few locations.
Since 2017, Hyatt has doubled its number of luxury rooms, tripled its number of resort rooms, and quintupled its number of lifestyle rooms globally. This growth establishes Hyatt as the fastest-growing luxury portfolio with the largest number of luxury-branded rooms in resort locations worldwide and underscores Hyatt’s position as the premier hotel brand for highend travelers seeking rich and experiential luxury, resort and lifestyle stays.
THE FILLING STATION PUB & GRILL • 300 W Main St, ST. CHARLES, IL 630-584-4414. This is a landmark restaurant in St. Charles, Illinois that serves American fare and comfort food. It has a vintage filling (gas) station theme throughout, with vintage signs of old filling stations from yesteryear. It also features large screen TVs and a beautiful outdoor patio. I ordered the Patty Melt, which was a thick burger with Cheddar cheese and grilled onions on grilled rye bread. It was big, juicy and delicious. It came with hand-cut fries which were also very good.
LA FOGATA MEXICAN TAQUERIA • 4434 Calumet Ave. HAMMOND, IN 219-803-0753. They are open from 9:00 am until 10:00 pm daily offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have a pretty big menu. I stopped in on Saturday and they were doing Karaoke in the restaurant. For my meal I started with some salsa and chips, followed by an order of guacamole. I also ordered a couple of tacos; a steak one and a chicken one with onion and cilantro. The food was great and the service was spot on. Their prices were such a good value.
LC’S DINER 544 W. Lake St., ELMHURST, IL 630-834-2426
This is a small diner with amazing breakfast and lunch specialties for dine-in or carry-out. I was there for an early breakfast, so I ordered the Farmer’s Favorite which was 2 pancakes, 2 eggs, 2 strips of bacon and 2 sausage links. Since I sat at the counter, I watched as my food was being prepared on their flat-top grill. The food came out quickly, nice and hot, and my eggs were perfectly cooked the way I like them. The pancakes were some of the best I’d had in a long time. I also saw they were cooking chili in the background and it smelled amazing, so I ordered a large container to-go.
MICHAEL’S ORIGINAL PIZZERIA & TAVERN • 4091 N. Broadway Ave. CHICAGO, IL 773-929-4149 . This place is always super busy. So, one of my friends decided to pick up some food from here. We started off with a dozen of their buffalo wings which were marinated in buffalo sauce and cooked to perfection. Then we had one of their tavern style pizzas with mushrooms, sausage and tomatoes. The pizza was light, the tomatoes were fresh, the toppings blended well and the crust was crispy and absolutely delicious. They also have dish pizza along with other offerings that include Nacho platters, sandwiches, salads and pasta.
PITA PITA MEDITERRANEAN GRILL • 158 S Gary Ave #102, BLOOMINGDALE, IL 630-278-2578 . This is a Middle Eastern restaurant, serving authentic Mediterranean cuisine. They have nine locations around Chicago. For my entree, I ordered the Chicken Tawook, which was tender chicken marinated in a variety of Mediterranean spices and grilled on an open fire, served with a grilled tomato and onion, topped with a pinch of sumac. I also ordered a side order of their Loaded Fries, which were crispy fries topped with your choice of fresh beef or chicken shawarma, and drizzled with a Pita Pita sauces and cheese. What a treat!
Burger Buns
Focaccia and Ciabatta Breads
Sandwich and Panini Breads
Dinner Rolls
Valenzano Old World Loaf
French Breads (10 Varieties) Rustic Breads
Imagine a delicious, 3-foot-tall Santa made from milk or dark chocolate!
• Bubble Tea Essentials: “Premium Beverage Mixes, Fruit Purees, Exquisite Toppings, and All the Necessary Equipment & Supplies!”
• Dessert Options:
“Delight in Our Exclusive Mochi Waffle Pastries
– A Sweet Addition to Your Menu!” ESTABLISHED REPUTATION:
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
• Expert Training: “Learn from the Best
– Elevate Your Bubble Tea Skills!”
• Custom Branding: “Make Your Mark
– Personalized Products for Unique Branding!”
• Local Delivery: “Efficient, Weekly Delivery
– Bringing Quality to Your Doorstep!”
• “Proudly Serving Since 2003 – A Legacy of Quality and Innovation in the Bubble Tea Industry!”
Our
of
Patio Heater Sales Rise as Diners Flock to Outdoor Seating
Smart restaurant and bar operators in Chicagoland and nationwide are embracing year-round outdoor dining, driven by increasing customer demand for warm, inviting patio spaces. TNG Industries, the region’s leading supplier of gas and electric patio heaters, has seen significant growth in popularity. According to Tom Georgelos, owner of TNG, “We’ve seen venues large and small, from neighborhood bars to big restaurants – capitalize on outdoor seating, which diners love.”
With Covid reshaping dining habits, customers often prefer outdoor seating, which expands venue capacity and expanded potential for increased
profits. Chicagoans, in particular, enjoy al fresco dining, and TNG’s heaters ensure patrons stay comfortable longer, helping attract new guests and encouraging return visits. Restaurants looking to enhance their seating options should consider TNG Industries for top-quality, costeffective heaters, including their newest offering – the new Infratech “Sweet Spot” heater, which is 5200 Watts and 48” length. It’s the perfect mid-sized heater with powerful performance and maximum comfort.
– For more info, see their ad on page 29.
Performance Foodservice-Chicago Wins 2024 Brands OpCo of the Year
Performance Foodservice-Chicago recently received two top honors at the annual Performance Food Group Brands Conference.
Chicago won the 2024 Brands OpCo (Operating Company) of the Year Award, and Rob Morelli was named Brands Champion of the Year Runner-Up. Rob Morelli has been the PerformanceChicago Brands Manager since 2019 and with the company since 2011. He also serves as their Pizza/Italian Sales Specialist. At the conference, Performance Food Group Chairman & CEO George Holm and President & COO Craig Hoskins addressed 136 Performance associates from Corporate and Performance OpCos across the country. The PFG senior leadership underscored the competitive advantage of PFG Exclusive Brands and encouraged Brands Champions to provide the best solutions to their customers’ success, whether it is a PFG brand or a national brand.
Performance Foodservice is the second largest foodservice distribution company in the United States and a division
of Performance Food Group, which delivers approximately 250,000+ national and proprietary-branded food and foodrelated products. Performance Foodservice-Chicago is located in Montgomery, IL, and services multiple states, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
– See the Performance Foodservice – Chicago ad on page 13
Infratech 5200-Watt “Sweet Spot” heater.
Don’t let your message get lost in the spam folder. Everyone reads:
Digital Foot Traffic and the Hyper-Local Battle for Restaurant Success
By Sterling Douglass, Co Founder & CEO at Chowly In
today’s food industry, attracting customers is no longer just about having a great location or tasty menu. With the rise of digital platforms, restaurants are increasingly competing in a hyper-local “knife fight” for online visibility and foot traffic. Digital foot traffic refers to the number of people discovering a restaurant through online channels – whether that’s via Google Maps, social media, or third-party apps. This traffic often translates into real-world visits, making it crucial for restaurants to vmaintain strong digital storefronts. Simply relying on good food or word-of-mouth is no longer enough. To stay competitive, restaurants are embracing off-premise strategies like hyper-local marketing. This approach targets potential customers within a specific geographic area, ensuring promotions and content resonate with nearby diners. Paid ads, optimized listings, and geotargeted social media posts are vital tools in this digital battleground. The fight for visibility is fierce, but those who master it can turn virtual impressions into more orders and more loyal patrons. In a crowded industry, the restaurants that succeed in driving digital foot traffic will be the ones to dominate the hyper-local competition. Adaptability and a focus on local marketing have never been more critical for long-term success.
MacCarb: Delivering Efficiency and Reliability in Gas Supply for the Food Industry
MacCarb, the region’s leading family-owned provideer of a full range of gases for carbonated beverages, food manufacturing, and food processing businesses has a strong focus on improving efficiency for its customers. MacCarb offers remote monitoring of gas levels for its customers, all managed from their home office in Gilberts, Illinois.
Dave McCarthy, Vice President of the family business, explains, “Our remote monitoring service ensures customers never have to worry about running out of gas. We track gas levels in real time and schedule deliveries as needed, saving time and costs while ensuring uninterrupted operations.” For food service operators, manufacturers, or suppliers relying on compressed gases, MacCarb promises exceptional service and reliability. – To learn more, check out their ad on page 18.
The stars were out on September 9 when key players from Chicagoland’s food industry turned out to participate in Chef Corey Grupe of HMS Host’ interview by Mario Ponce, owner of Takito Brands . In addition to Corey’s insightful talk, guests were treated to food and beverage tastings and tons of free raffle items from Food Industry News and from many wonderful companies including ACF Chicago Chefs, Boston Beer Company, Eleven City Diner, Employco, Fifth Third Bank, Instantwhip, J & J Gaming, J Lohr Wine, JR Weber, Moretti’s, Pardee Vodka, Pita Inn Restaurants, Skeptic Gin, Society Insurance, Teepos POS, Uncle Nearest, Uncommon Ground Coffee, Vanille Patisserie, Vienna Beef, and Your Propane Guys.
“Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. (Football) halftimes take 12 minutes. This is not coincidence.” – Erma Bombeck
The wonderfully simple, ingredient-focused food is complemented by a South American wine list that highlights the unique varietals of the region. The vibrant cocktail program and lively bar area have secured a loyal following of their own. El Che Steakhouse & Bar has earned a coveted three-star rating from the Chicago Tribune and was named in the “Top 50 Chicago Restaurants” by Chicago Tribune’s dining critic, Phil Vettel. Brasero, the latest concept from Executive Chef & Owner John Manion was named by Robb Report as one of the Top 10 Best New Restaurants in America. It brings bold, wood-fired Latin cooking to West Town’s bustling restaurant row. The menu blends South American culinary traditions with a Midwestern sensibility. “Brasero is a full circle moment for me,” says Executive Chef and Owner John Manion. “I started thinking about the neighborhood, where I lived for about 25 years. Thinking of the beginning of my career on Division Street, working at Mas. I look back to that era and the neighborhood speaks to me. Brasero is not just another culinary venture, it’s
a tribute to the flavors and experiences that shaped me into the chef I am today.”
The menu consists of small and large plates, including charcoal-kissed seafood, grilled pork chops inspired by La Sirena Clandestina, and slow cooked-over-charcoal chicken. The preparation for the chicken involves brining and marinating young birds, slow roasting over charcoal, and finishing on the grill, with fermented garlic sauce, chili oil, and special “chicken salt,” a blend of herbs, salt, and dehydrated chicken skin. In 2017 and 2020, Manion was nominated for “Chef of the Year” at the acclaimed Jean Banchet Awards. El Che Steakhouse & Bar earned a coveted three-star rating from the Chicago Tribune and is consistently ranked as one of the best steakhouses in Chicago.
‘Manion’ continued from cover
Auctions and Appraisals
Expand Your Menu Effortlessly with Italian Stallions
Elevate your offerings with locally made, premium Italian beef sandwiches. Italian Stallions feature mouth watering Italian beef, melted cheese, and freshly baked giardiniera rolls.
Sourced from Bari Beef in South Elgin, a trusted name for over 40 years, these products are slow-roasted using traditional methods with only the finest cuts of meat and seasonings.
• Classic Italian Beef and Cheese with Giardiniera Rolls
• Corned Beef and Cheese with Sauerkraut Rolls Choose from Two Delectable Varieties:
Add a twist by offering a flight of dipping sauces to create a more substantial and memorable dining experience. Your customers will love the extra flair, making these sandwiches a hit on your menu. It’s simple to prepare and delivers high margin.
Bari Beef also offers Italian sausage, meatballs, and giardiniera, with distribution available locally and nationwide through suppliers like Greco and Sons.
– See their ad on page 8 for more information or to request samples
Abbey Resort Lake Geneva Names New Executive Chef
The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa in Wisconsin announces the hiring of Noah Gumustekin as Executive Chef at Lake Geneva’s only lakeside full-service resort.
“Cultures all around the world love food,” said Noah Gumustekin, newly named Executive Chef at The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa. “Food brings people together, whether it’s for big family meals like Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas, or weekend barbecues. As a chef, I’m looking forward to creating memorable moments in people’s lives.”
Gumustekin will now lead all of The Abbey’s culinary operations. This includes the creation of seasonal, locally sourced menus for
the resort’s casual lakeside dining outlets (Waterfront Restaurant, Gazebo Grille, and Cafe Latte), calorie-conscious offerings at the acclaimed Avani Spa, all in-room dining and banquet events, and of course, 240 West – the resort’s signature restaurant. Gumustekin will also oversee a culinary team of approximately 40 people.
For over 20 years, Chef Noah has been creating memorable moments for people worldwide. He is the winner of several Silver Medal awards from the American Culinary Federation and has mastered culinary management positions at several hotels and resorts around the world.
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
Is it a Restaurant with Hotel, or Hotel with a Restaurant?
When real estate has multiple uses, there are many questions. Where should the focus be when the property is being sold? Is it a hotel, a restaurant, both? Where do you focus your efforts as it relates to a potential buyer? Sometimes the answers are obvious, sometimes the true answers are deceptive.
The real estate auction marketing firm, Rick Levin & Associates, was recently assigned to sell a property with a successful history in lodging and a well-regarded restaurant, despite its
current closure. They decided to focus on its fabulous location and the fact that replacing the structures would be so costly that a savvy purchaser would surely see great value in simultaneously resurrecting both the restaurant and the hotel, allowing the “market to decide” which component would be embraced by the community.
The reality is that usually the market will tell the seller not only what they have, but what it is worth. Sellers often try to fight the market but the market almost always wins.
Rick Levin & Associates, Inc. is a Chicago-based Real Estate and Personal Property auction firm celebrating their 34th year and thousands of auctions for sellers large and small.
Coca-Cola Upgrades Ordering Platform
Coca-Cola has revamped its customer ordering platform, MyCoke , to incorporate more technology, streamline operations and integrate with Salesforce as it serves more than 220,000 retailers and restaurants. “The successful launch allows us to focus on increasing the scale of the platform by adding additional channels and customer groups through targeted investment to unlock more capabilities for our customers,” said Samantha Mitchell, chief digital officer for Coke One North America.
– Consumer Goods Technology News
The Artisan Chef Manufacturing Acquires Buitoni Food Company
The Artisan Chef Manufacturing Company a collaboration of Tuscan Brands and Sal’s Pizza, and a leader in artisanal food production announces its acquisition of Buitoni Food Company, a globally recognized food brand offering authentic Italian fresh pasta and sauces. This acquisition marks a full-circle moment for Joe Faro, the founder of The Artisan Chef Manufacturing Company and Tuscan Brands, who previously sold his first company, Joseph’s Gourmet Pasta and Sauces, to Buitoni in 2006.
Red Gold’s New Guilt-Free Barbecue Sauce
While the first ingredient in most Barbecue Sauce labels is high fructose corn syrup, the first ingredient in Red Gold’s New Naturally Balanced Barbecue Sauce is tomato puree . It’s made with real sugar, no artificial caramel color, and 75% less sodium than other leading competitors for an exceptional sweet and smoky flavor perfect for any dish.
Now available in new one-gallon plastic jugs, it is perfect for back-of-the-house use, along with the 1.5 gallon dispenser pouch. Also available in 1oz. dunk cups which is great for take-out or drive-through. Red Gold’s New Naturally Balanced Barbecue Sauce is both nutritious and delicious!
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– Melody Beattie
Columbus Vegetable Oils Hires New Quality Assurance Manager
Columbus Vegetable Oils recently announced the appointment of Richard Lewis to the role of Quality Assurance Manager for the Dressings, Sauces and Dips department.
Lewis will spearhead the development and implementation of comprehensive processes and reports to monitor quality metrics and operational efficiency. His responsibilities will include reviewing quality data collected by technicians, evolving Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality programs to align with industry standards and driving overall performance improvements. Additionally, Lewis will lead a team of four technicians, ensuring that quality standards are upheld consistently across all operations in the dressings, sauces and dips department.
“We are excited to welcome Richard to the Columbus family,” said Paulette Gagliardo, president, Columbus Vegetable Oils. “Richard’s expertise in quality assurance and commitment to process improvement aligns perfectly with our mission to produce the highest quality dressings, shortenings and dips. We are confident Lewis will be influential in driving our quality initiatives forward.”
With five years of industry experience, Lewis brings a robust background in quality management and a fresh perspective to the team. Lewis previously held roles at Clyde’s Donuts where he was instrumental in overseeing the Quality Department and spearheading the implementation of several key initiatives. Notable achievements include introducing a Quality Management System and Warehouse Management Systems, resulting in significant cost savings for the company.
“I am thrilled to join a company with such a strong reputation for quality and excellence. Columbus Vegetable Oils is known for its commitment to producing top-tier products, and I am excited to contribute to upholding and enhancing this esteemed standard,” Lewis said.
– You can find the Columbus Vegetable Oils ad on page 7
Whole Foods Opens Daily Shop
Whole Foods Market recently opened its first Daily Shop smallformat store in New York City’s Upper East Side, focusing on convenience and quick shopping trips. The 9,100-square-foot store offers 75% of the products found in traditional Whole Foods stores, with foods prepared off-site and delivered daily. The store features self-checkout kiosks and is strategically located near full-size
Holiday Dessert Needs
“The more informative your advertising, the more persuasive it will be.”
– David Ogilvy
Mini Pastries
Yule Log
Ready-to-Eat Cannoli, Cannoli Kits, Shells, Dip Trays, Filling, Cakes, Garnish
Five-Layer Chocolate Fudge Cake
Gaylord Opryland Announces 2024 ICE! Theme, Expands Across
Gaylord Brand
Family travelers, mark your calendars! ICE! will return to Gaylord Opryland this year as part of the resort’s 41st annual “A Country Christmas”. This year’s ICE! features Frosty the Snowman. The ICE! tradition began in 2001 at Gaylord Opryland and is now a holiday staple at all five Gaylord Hotels properties.
Gaylord Opryland’s celebration runs Nov. 8–Jan. 4. Gaylord National, Gaylord Palms and Gaylord Texan kick off programming Nov. 15, with end dates of Dec. 28, Jan. 4 and Jan. 5, respectively. Find festivities Nov. 22–Jan. 1 at Gaylord Rockies and Nov. 23–Jan. 5 in San Antonio.
Local News
Big Onion Hospitality, a leading casual dining group known for its food and quality-driven dining experiences, announces the appointment of Shamari Benton as Chief Financial Officer. Benton will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations and strategies, supporting the company’s ambitious growth plans and expanding its restaurant operations and real estate portfolio. Brasero, which brings bold, wood-fired Latin cooking to West Town’s bustling restaurant row, announces Chef de Cuisine, Adam Meyer, is a StarChefs Rising Star Award recipient. This prestigious recognition honors leaders in the dining scene who prepare exceptional dishes and propel their kitchens and the industry forward. BrightFarms, a national leader in the indoor farming industry, announced the opening of its new greenhouse hub in Yorkville, Illinois. This is the first of three new regional greenhouse hubs opening for BrightFarms in 2024, tripling the company’s capacity to provide fresh, locally-grown leafy greens to consumers across the Eastern and Central U.S. Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Lights at The Museum of Science and Industry will be going on Nov. 16,2024 – Jan. 6, 2025. Christmas Around the World features more than 50 trees highlighting a variety of countries and cultures, offering insight into the holiday customs celebrated by families around the world. Dave & Buster’s opened its first location in Lombard, Illinois in Yorktown Center at 306 Yorktown Shopping Center. The new Dave & Buster’s will offer a premier entertainment and restaurant destination with more than 19,830 square feet of gaming, food and entertainment space. Ferrero North America, part of the global sweet-packaged food company the Ferrero Group, celebrated the
production facility in Bloomington, Illinois. The $214 million dollar investment creates approximately 200 new jobs and will help drive Ferrero’s continued market expansion. Fogo de Chão, the internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil known for its elevated churrasco experience, announced the signing of a lease agreement for its fifth Chicagoland location in Orland Park. The new 6,791 square-foot restaurant is scheduled to open in 2025 at 15407 South La Grange Road in Orland Park Place. Folepi’s Winter Wonderland in East Peoria, Illinois is a drive-through display that opens Friday night, November 29, 2024 and will be open every night through Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden will be held Nov 15, 2024-Jan. 5, 2025 at Chicago Botanic Garden,1000 Lake Cook Rd. in Glencoe, Illinois. Embrace the spirit and beauty of the season at Lightscape, returning to set the Garden aglow with light, art, and music. Sultan’s Market Middle Eastern Restaurant opens their fourth location at 1738 W. 18th St, in Chicago. Their other locations are located at 2204 N. California, 2521 N. Clark and 2057 W. North Ave. in Chicago. The American Cider Association is pleased to announce that the 15th annual CiderCon will take place in Chicago, Illinois from February 4-7, 2025. CiderCon 2025 will feature experiences, cider tastings, educational workshops, a trade show and networking opportunities for all attendees. This fall, Northeastern Illinois University announced a 4.2% increase in total student enrollment, bringing the number of students on campus to 5,734. Northeastern Illinois University offers more than 40 undergraduate degree and certificate programs and more than 50 graduate degree, certificate, licensure and endorsement programs.
Wage & Hour Issues
J. Lohr Celebrates 50 Years with Philanthropy and Sweepstakes
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines launches its “50 Years, States & Ways of Giving”’ campaign, continuing to celebrate the winery’s 50th anniversary with a nationwide charitable initiative and a consumer sweepstakes . The Lohr family’s commitment to community support is evidenced by the program’s aim to identify one nonprofit organization in each of the 50 states to receive $5,000 totaling more than $250,000 in donations. The funds will be awarded to help advance the recipient charities’ stated missions; the organizations will be spotlighted throughout J. Lohr’s channels this year.
Ruggiero: Taking Seafood to the Next Level
Ruggiero Seafood Inc. – the New Jerseybased Calamari Giant takes the growing market for seafood beyond your basic Fried Calamari. With several new items added to an already extensive line of seafood products Ruggiero hopes to keep customers interested in seafood for years to come.
Located in Newark, NJ the company’s products are guaranteed to take your seafood menu to the next level. The company’s flagship brand Fisherman’s Pride comes with over fifty years of satisfying Chefs from around the world. Often copied but never duplicated, Fisherman’s Pride Calamari is always a step above the rest.
Breaded Calamari rings in two styles, Panko, and Lightly Breaded oven able which
are chef prepared entrée/appetizers of exceptional quality, combining select cuts of fresh, sweet tasting Calamari with premium quality ingredients. They are frozen in small 8 oz. portion bags to help prevent spoilage and promote easy handling with a fixed food cost. Fisherman’s Pride Breaded Calamari rings go from the freezer to the plate in just 60 seconds with a from scratch plate presentation.
Ruggiero also carry’s several other frozen seafood items in their Fisherman’s Pride brand such as Black Shell Mussels, Whole Shell Clams, Flounder Fillets, Barramundi Fillets, Tuna Portions, Grouper Fillets, Breaded Shrimp, Breaded Flounder, and Crab Cakes.
– For samples/ordering info see their ad on page 11.
The 50 States, and 50 Ways of Giving Illinois recipient was the Greater Chicago Food Depository. The check was presented by Robin Poulsen, IL, IN Area Manager, Doug Burch, Great Lakes Regional Manager, and Lawrence Lohr, President & COO, J. Lohr Vineyards, Inc.
These funds will provide the Cook County community approximately 15,000 meals for neighbors enduring food insecurity.
Amy’s Kitchen, the national leader in organic and natural frozen food, announces its expansion into the frozen breakfast category, introducing a range of convenient and delicious burritos, wraps and entrees. With a commitment to providing convenient, organic meals for busy mornings, Amy’s continues to innovate in the frozen aisle. Catering to the evolving needs of families and individuals alike who are looking for wholesome, homecooked options made from scratch to kick start their morning without the hassle of cooking.
With many years of experience and multiple distribution facilities throughout the Midwest, MacCARB has developed a reputation as the most trusted beverage gas, and service fulfillment companies around. Whether you need beverage grade carbon dioxide, nitrogen, helium, blended gases or just plain service, MacCARB is your single one stop shop. For Personalized Service, Call us Today!
Paris Baguette Partners with Lunchbox
Paris Baguette, the global bakery-café franchise known for its innovative pastries and savory offerings, has announced a strategic partnership with Lunchbox , a leader in enterprise restaurant technology, to launch a comprehensive catering suite of online ordering and backend order management solutions across its 180+ locations in the United States. The brand will leverage Lunchbox’s advanced technology suite, including catering, marketing CRM, call center, and delivery solutions, to elevate Paris Baguette’s guest experience and operational efficiency.
– Source: prnewswire
The 2024 Fall Performance Foodservice Food Show (Milwaukee Food Centric Experience) at the Potawatomi Casino in Milwaukee Wisconsin was a significant event for the food service industry! With over 100 vendor booths (including Food Industry News) and more than 1,000 professionals attending, it offered an excellent platform for networking and exploring new trends and products, as well as expert guidance in helping their customers to achieve their goals.
Demonstrate consistent presence with your best prospects. Advertise in:
City Cruises Chicago Prepares For Cooler Days Ahead By Launching Exciting Fall And Winter Programming
Cane’s Sales Skyrocket
Raising Cane’s has experienced robust growth in the first half of 2024, with a 17.5% increase in samestore sales and a 33% rise in revenue, totaling $2.3 billion. The growth was fueled by higher customer traffic, increased average checks following menu price hikes and the opening of 46 new units.
– Restaurant Business
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey throughout the cooler months with City Cruises Chicago! As the leading provider of on-the-water excursions, City Cruises Chicago will offer a diverse range of cruising experiences throughout the remainder of year and during the upcoming holiday season including Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Set sail and see for yourself that cruising is not just a summertime activity, but a year-round adventure. “Chicago’s charm lasts beyond the summertime,” said Grace Fuller, General Manager of City Cruises Chicago. “The upcoming fall and winter months are just as exciting, and we are thrilled to officially announce the full schedule of offerings we will have available as the temperatures begin to drop. From spooky tales on our Seadog during the Halloween season, to front row seats to the NYE Fireworks Display at Navy Pier, we have a little something for everyone.” In addition to City Cruises’ year-round dining cruises, below are the specialty holiday offerings available for the upcoming fall and winter months. Thanksgiving Day Lunch & Dinner Cruises – November 28 . Those looking to skip the holiday meal prepping to spend more quality time with loved ones are invited to cruise a selection of Thanksgiving brunch and dinner cruises available along the serenity of the lake and river. Offering a unique way to celebrate the upcoming festivities, guests aboard will relish in a delightful Thanksgiving spread led by Executive Chef Francesco Simone while enjoying live entertainment in the comfort of a climate-controlled interior. Patrons are invited to commemorate the picture-perfect day by stepping outside on the spacious outdoor deck for the ultimate photo op.
“In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.”
– Dwight D. Eisenhower
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Brunch & Dinner Cruises – December 24 and 25 . It’s the most magical time of the year, and City Cruises invites all loved ones to cruise the ultimate holiday experience on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. City Cruises’ DJ will create the perfect ambiance of merriment while the breathtaking city lights will light up the night and offer unprecedented vantage points of the Chicago skyline. This magical cruise will be paired with delicious chef-prepared menus and perfectly crafted seasonal cocktails. New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruises – December 3 . Celebrate the beginning of the New Year with an unforgettable experience on a dinner cruise designed for all types of groups. Indulge in all-inclusive packages featuring chef-prepared menus and the option of an open bar. Throughout the evening, guests will be entertained as they enjoy the stunning views from the water. As the clock strikes midnight, guests will have the best vantage point to witness the Navy Pier fireworks. To note, NYE dinner cruises are 21+.
New Year’s Eve and New Years Day Brunch Cruise – December 31 and January 1. Patrons are invited to have smooth sailing the morning of both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with on City Cruises’ New Year’s Brunch cruises, where patrons will enjoy bottomless mimosas and chef-crafted menus start or keep the party going. Discover the beauty of the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Merchandise Mart and the Willis Tower while reveling in the fresh start to the new year.
Attendees on all cruises may further elevate the experience by upgrading to the Premium Open Bar option, ordering specialty appetizers, or purchasing a souvenir photo to celebrate the festivities. For ticket information and details about all cruises departing from Chicago, visit: www.citycruises.com/chicago.
Buona Introduces Savings on Their Chicago Classics
Buona, the largest family-owned Italian beef restaurant group and beef producer in the country, is introducing limitedtime savings on their Chicago Classics . Buona now offers special promotional pricing on its iconic Italian beef, meatball and sausage sandwiches, along with regular fries, every Monday through Wednesday. Available in-store, online or through the Buona app, this promotion offers loyal customers a chance to indulge in their favorite Buona signature sandwiches for less.
serve. Plus, our new Buona Meals offer everyone the chance to enjoy a full meal with their favorite entrée, sides and a drink – all at a great price.”
“We’re thrilled to share our family’s favorites with our guests,” Joe Buonavolanto III, Executive Vice President of the Buona Companies. “We’ve paired them with fries to deliver more value to those we proudly
At Buona, diners experience the quality of a full-service restaurant with the affordability and convenience of fast-casual dining. Part of The Buona Companies alongside another Chicagoland staple, The Original Rainbow Cone (Rainbow Cone), home of the iconic five-flavor cone, the brands continue to innovate while honoring their rich heritage. Recent initiatives like Buona’s Chicago Classic Cravings, everyday savings with Buona Meals, and Rainbow Cone’s Sliced Creations showcase the brand’s ability to connect with and captivate today’s consumers.
Selling Challenges for Suppliers
Selling to restaurateurs, chefs, and buyers can indeed be a tough and lengthy process due to a combination ofindustryspecific challenges:
1. Time Constraints: Many restaurant owners and managers now juggle running daily operations with managing the business, leaving them little time for reviewing new suppliers or products.
2. Staffing Issues: In high-cost states like Illinois, labor challenges mean that restaurants often run on a skeleton crew, reducing the time available for leadership to vet potential suppliers.
3. Comfort with Existing Suppliers: Decision-makers often stick with familiar suppliers to minimize risk, making it harder for new businesses to break through. This is a pattern even if the current supplier is sub-par.
Because of these hurdles, suppliers need to adopt a different strategy to attract these buyers. One way is by using educational marketing and B2B trade advertising that provides value upfront. This positions the supplier as an expert in the field and safe choice, prompting buyers to reach out
on their own terms. When restaurant owners are informed and ready to make a change, they’ll often turn to the suppliers they’ve been hearing from consistently, making them feel like a trusted solution.
In Chicago, the targeted industry publication Food Industry News, serves as a key platform for reaching decisionmakers. By focusing on advertising in all local food business channels, suppliers can ensure that their brand is top-of-mind when buyers are ready to make a switch. Reaching into various segments (foodservice institutional, retail grocery and culinary driven segments) is a smart move because there is an estimated 20% turnover with buyers changing jobs each year.
If you’re a supplier in the food industry, this is the perfect time to invest into proven effective trade advertising, given the current economic environment where visibility and educational engagement can make all the difference. All advertising is not equal. Targeting qualified buyers in publications where they are accustomed to finding suppliers sends a message that you are trusted, successful and reliable, versus free consumer social media platforms where any company (good or bad, experienced or not) can post for free.
BOOKSHELF
A Confident Cook
Authors: Tamron Hall and Lish Steiling
Publisher: Hyperion Avenue
ISBN-13: 978-1368104043
A new cookbook for beginners and curious cooks by Emmy Award-winning talk show host and journalist Tamron Hall and her good friend, award-winning chef Lish Steiling When Tamron Hall and Lish Steiling first met while working at the Today show, they never imagined that their friendship would lead to endless kitchen adventures filled with laughs, learning, and even tears of pure joy. In A Confident Cook, they share that same empowerment and excitement with those who are just beginning to cook. Learn how to select the tools you need (and skip the ones you don’t!), how to stock your pantry, and how to cook for one, two, or a whole group. This book is packed with scrumptious recipes, including Baked French Toast with Sparkling Berries, Crispy Fried Chicken, Harissa Roasted Carrots with Queso Fresco, and Chai-Spiced Pudding, as well as cocktails and mocktails like the delicious “Not Tonight, Satan.” Throughout, Lish and Tamron chat, teach, learn, and inspire you to keep it going in the kitchen!
Cousins Maine Lobster Plans for New Units
Cousins Maine Lobster, co-founded by Sabin Lomac and Jim Tselikis, has seen rapid growth since its inception in 2012, supported by entrepreneur and “Shark Tank” judge Barbara Corcoran. The company now operates 66 trucks and five brick-and-mortar stores, with plans to open 23 to 25 new units this year, focusing on franchised food trucks due to their economic efficiency and a goal of reaching 250 locations in five years.
– Source: nrn.com
“When
I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” – Willie Nelson
Buy Local with: National News
amexrecycling@yahoo.com amexrecycling@yahoo.com amexrecycling@yahoo.com
Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s Director-General, has appointed the renowned Swiss Chef and plant-based food advocate Daniel Humm as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Food Education. The nomination ceremony was held at his three-Michelin-star restaurant, Eleven Madison Park, in New York. District Taco, the Mexican restaurant known for its authentic Yucatán flavors, celebrates 15 years; from a single food cart in Rosslyn, Virginia to a growing franchise. District Taco’s 15th year has been marked by expansion, with new locations opening in Norfolk, VA and Wayne, NJ, two more New Jersey openings slated for this fall, and Orlando, FL locations on the horizon for Q1 2025.
Ellianos Coffee, a southeastbased drive-thru specialty coffee brand, announced the signing of a new development agreement for a store in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it enters its fifth state, further solidifying its position as a rising star in the specialty coffee industry. Holland America Line is making the holiday season merry and bright with exclusive themed food and beverage menus across the fleet. The cruise line will feature festive offerings for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s Eve to bring the holiday spirit and a little taste of home on board. Houstonborn Shipley Do-Nuts celebrated its 88th birthday. The iconic donut and kolache brand has more than 350 locations and counting in 12 states and has also been named an official Texas Treasure by the Texas Historical Commission. The fast-growing brand has plans to double in size over the next five years. Insomnia Cookies, the bakery brand best known for delivering delicious, warm cookies
late into the night, has reached a significant company milestone by announcing the opening of its 300th bakery worldwide. José Andrés Group and Thor Equities launch the bazaar house by José Andrés: a luxury hotel & membership club set to redefine dining with one-of-a-kind culinary offerings. The 67-room luxury hotel will be located at 3000 M Street in Washington D.C.’s Georgetown slated to open in 2027. Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival will be held Nov 21 - 23, 2024 at Devos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan. This Festival has established itself as Michigan’s annual tasting event, measured by more than 1,200 wines, beers, ciders and spirits from around the world, along with creations from the area’s finest restaurants. The World Food Championships will be held Nov 8-12, 2024 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in Indianapolis. This event features some of the world’s best cooks competing for food, fame, and fortune in twelve categories. Wegmans is a regional supermarket chain headquartered in Rochester, New York and one of the largest private companies in the U.S. Wegmans Food Markets’ new 100,000 square-foot Lake Grove store is at 3270 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove, NY and is expected to open in early 2025. This will be the first Wegmans location on Long Island. Yaza, a new brand of authentic Mediterranean labneh, announced that after just one year in the market, it is now available in 1,000 stores across the U.S., including nationally at Whole Foods Market. Yaza is revolutionizing the dips and spreads aisle in grocers across America with authentic, high-quality labneh.
Speyburn Introduces Rum Cask Finish Whisky
For over 125 years, the uplifting spirit of Speyburn Distillery’s riverside home has been captured in every drop of Speyburn Single Malt. With honed skills and generations of knowledge, they use the finest natural ingredients to create their distinctive Speyburn character.
The distinctive Single Malt is first aged in bourbon casks and finished in rum casks to bring through tropical fruity flavors, caramelized and a softly spiced finish.
The whisky presents a pale gold hue with a nose of tropical fruits, green apples, citrus, and caramelized banana. On the palate, it offers buttery pastry and peach flavors, evolving into tropical fruits, soft caramel, delicate cinnamon, and fresh vanilla.
Photo: Business Wire
A recipe a year and a half in the making, made with real milk and cream, the new Philadelphia Frosting delivers a homemade taste blending the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in a convenient, refrigerated format with zero preparation or clean-up needed.
Interested in Contract Packaging? Copack with Skeptic Distillery
Companies choose contract packaging to save time and money. By letting specialists handle packaging, you can focus on what you do best, like creating and promoting your products. This option also makes it easier to increase production without needing to invest in new equipment or facilities. Plus, working with packaging experts can improve the look of your products and ensure they meet industry rules. Overall, it’s a smart way for businesses to use their resources better and get high-quality products to market more quickly.
Why Choose Skeptic Distillery for Your Co-Packing Needs?
• Expertise and Experience: Their team has extensive experience in the spirits and beverage industry, providing you with reliable and efficient contract packaging services.
• Custom Solutions: Skeptic offers custom co-packing, white labeling, and private labeling services to meet the specific needs of your product and brand.
• Specialized Equipment: Skeptic is equipped with stills for manufacturing, automatic bottle filling as well as machine labeling for efficient and precise packaging
• Quality Assurance: Skeptic maintains strict quality control throughout the packaging process to ensure that every product meets their high standards.
• Innovation: From traditional spirits to cutting-edge CBD and hemp-infused beverages, Skeptic stays ahead of industry trends to deliver innovative packaging solutions.
Skeptic Distillery is conveniently located in Melrose Park, Illinois.
Lowcountry, the innovative seafood boil restaurant concept founded by Pan and Dana Hompluem in 2015, is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest location in Merrillville, Indiana Located at 8239 Georgia St., this latest addition marks the fifth location for the brand, with three popular spots in Chicago (Lakeview; South Loop; Chinatown) and one in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
ITALIAN BEEF
Maggiano’s unveils eight new ItalianAmerican classics, including the “Riserva” Veal Parmesan. Showcasing a 14-ounce bone-in free-range veal chop, it’s hand-breaded and topped with fresh marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and cut tableside.
Rose Pest Solutions Promotes Zach Bahrke to Director of Operations as Company Expands
Rose Pest Solutions (rosepestcontrol.com) is pleased to promote Zach Bahrke to the newly created position of Director of Operations to provide additional support to the field as the company realizes tremendous growth in both revenue and people. The family-owned pest control company has nearly doubled its number of employees in the last seven years from 100 people to 186 today.
important to us as Rose continues to grow and Zach is an important part of that,” Dold said.
Zach will be responsible for overseeing all branch operations including sales, service and administration.
“Zach is an important part of the Rose family, having worked with us for more than 11 years, starting as a tech and rising up the ladder to this important position. He has helped Rose cultivate many current branch and service managers and has a great rapport with the leadership team,”
Rose Pest Solutions owner Bob Dold said. “All Rose and Franklin Pest Solutions branches and branch managers will report to Zach.”
Rose has been a family owned business since its inception all the way back to founder Solomon Rose being hired to keep rats away from soldier tents during the Civil War.
“Maintaining our company’s historical family business culture is
Additionally, Louise Marshall-Kee is being promoted to lead the Rose Wheeling team where she has spent nearly a year in the Rose branch manager training program. She has spent more than 11 years in progressively expanding leadership roles.
“A few years ago, being a woman in the pest industry was an anomaly,” said Janelle Iaccino, Rose’s marketing director also known as The Bug Girl. “We are always encouraging young girls to follow their dreams of careers in the sciences and are so proud that Rose has created space for women leaders to flourish in specialized areas of operating a pest management business. Men have traditionally represented 95-percent of the workers in the pest control industry and we are working hard to change that. We are proud to say that 28 percent of the Rose staff is now comprised of women.”
– See the Rose Pest Solutions ad on page 14.
Tips to Help Suppliers Keep Accounts Longer
Suppliers can reduce account turnover by expanding engagement beyond just one or two key contacts within an account.
Here’s How Smart Suppliers Do It:
Broaden Engagement: Make sure to build relationships with multiple people at each account, not just your primary contact. This can include other decision-makers, influencers, and even end-users within the organization. This way, if your main advocate leaves the company, you still have others who are familiar with you and invested in your brand.
Strengthen Relationships:
Regularly interact with your contacts to keep your brand top-of-mind. This could include frequent check-ins, personalized editorial and educational content published in their favorite magazine, or event invitations and Shmoozefest event sponsorships. The goal is to create strong, multi-layered relationships and touch-points that tie the account to your company rather than to just one individual.
Utilize Industry Resources: Leveraging industry-specific platforms like Food Industry News offers can help maintain a consistent presence. By keeping your brand visible and engaging through these channels, you reinforce your connections with all stakeholders in the account.
Stay Proactive: Don’t wait for issues to arise; be proactive in addressing potential concerns and continuously offer value to your accounts. This could be through innovative solutions, sharing industry insights, or offering exclusive deals. By implementing these strategies, suppliers can reduce the risk of account turnover and build more resilient, longterm partnerships.
Generic Brand Spirits Bourbon, Vodka
Monday, March 3 Monday, June 2 Monday, Sept. 8 Monday, Dec. 8
Generic Spirits is thrilled to announce its arrival to the Illinois beverage scene, bringing a premium selection of bourbon and vodka that promises to excite spirits enthusiasts. Co-founded by husband-and-wife duo, Sarah and Mike Fleck, the brand pays homage to the iconic legacy of the 1980’s black and white labels while prioritizing quality and craftsmanship. Their bourbon is expertly crafted from a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, aged to perfection in charred oak barrels. The result is a rich, smooth flavor profile that embodies the essence of traditional bourbon-making. Complementing the bourbon is Generic vodka, which is distilled seven times to achieve an exceptionally clean and crisp finish, making it perfect for cocktails or enjoyed straight.
The Flecks take pride in the packaging, which features minimalist black and white designs that reflect their commitment to quality and authenticity over busy labels. As they launch in Illinois, they are eager to connect with local bars, restaurants, and retailers looking to diversify their offerings with standout products.
Cary Miller Presents: PEOPLE SELLING THE FOOD INDUSTRY
Cruz Pineda is the founder and owner of Cruz’s Cleaning Service, a firm specializing in cleaning all types of restaurants, food plants and other food businesses. Unlike other cleaning companies, Cruz’s Cleaning service never asks clients to sign contracts. He keeps clients by providing excellent work at fair prices. If your operation would benefit from having a cleaner image that customers will notice, contact Cruz today for a free quote. His team clean restaurants across the greater Chicagoland market. You can find his ad on page 14.
Rhonda Mores Dehn is the third-generation chocolatier operating Morkes Chocolates. Since 1920 her family business has been using natural chocolate and real butter in all of their products. The products they sell to restaurants, stores, cafes and other wholesale buyers include: Caramel Apples, Cider Donuts, Chocolate Dipped Fruits, and Chocolate Specialties, including a 3-Foot Santa which is the perfect centerpiece for a holiday display or photo prop for your guests to have their picture taken with. To learn more about Morkes Chocolates, see their ad on page 6.
Are you out of kitchen space or need a satellite kitchen to work on special projects or food production? Consider contacting Erin Dunstan, who has a beautiful, fully-furnished production kitchen to rent by the shift or hour. There is even space for storage included with her low kitchen rental rates. This space is perfect for food brands wanting to “walk before they run” wonderful as a commissary or production kitchen for caterers, event specialist or foodservice operators who are out of space. To learn more, contact Erin today. You can see her ad on page 16.
George N. Reveliotis is the founder and managing partner at Reveliotis Law, P.C., a firm only practicing in the areas of property tax law and real estate law, meaning his team of attorneys have spent years developing extensive knowledge of Illinois law and experience in resolving the most complex matters. Whether his clients have general questions about a potential real estate purchase or sale, or need representation in seeking an appeal of their property tax bills, Reveliotis Law is ready to provide the effective, efficient legal help the food industry requires. George has an excellent track record and reputation of helping property owners in the food industry save money and solve issues relating to property tax law. You can learn more by seeing his ad on page 31.
Armando Perez is the owner of Amex Recycling Inc., a firm specializing in offering food-grade pallets to the food industry. Armando knows that when it comes to pallets, buyers have many options which is why he strives to provide his customers with the best service, pricing, guidance and support possible. Amex provides many food businesses with new pallets, used pallets, custom pallets, standard size pallets, drop trailers to store your unused or used pallets, and scrap pallets pick-up for recycling. If you are a pallet user and are looking for a high quality, service-oriented partner to help with your pallet needs, contact Armando today. You can see his ad on page 24.
Page Jahangir is with CardConnect Partners. He is an expert in helping food business merchants with their credit card processing and cash discount program. Page also has the ability to provide customers with the Clover POS System for their business. Page’s career spans over 28 years in serving the food industry. He strives to help merchants reduce their cost, increase revenue, and make accepting payments easy so they can focus on running and growing their business. Our industry is changing and people need to be more aware of the Payment Processing landscape. If you have questions about these items, contact Page today. You can find him listed in our Buyers Directories under Credit Card Processing.
Butterball Turkey-Talk Line Back for Holiday Season
The Butterball TurkeyTalk Line is once again available to support new and seasoned holiday hosts. Opening on, November 1 for its 43rd year, this group of food professionals is ready to serve as coaches and confidants, helping holiday hosts bring people together around a Thanksgiving meal. The Turkey Talk-Line experts will be available via phone, text, chat and social channels to answer questions. To learn more about Butterball and how to reach the Turkey Talk-Line, please visit Butterball.com.
Dealing with Speeding, Aggressive Drivers
Speeding behavior and aggressive drivers may not only affect the speeder—it can also affect other drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Here are some tips for encountering speeders on the road:
• If you are in the left lane and someone wants to pass, move over and let them by.
• Give speeding drivers plenty of space. Speeding drivers may lose control of their vehicle more easily.
• Adjust your driving accordingly. Speeding is tied to aggressive driving. If a speeding driver is tailgating you or trying to engage you in risky driving, use judgment to safely steer your vehicle out of the way.
• Call the police if you believe a driver is following you or harassing you. – National
Your Welding Shop On Wheels
Stouffer’s, the brand best known for bringing you a taste of comfort , is expanding beyond the frozen aisle with a new pantry staple, boxed mac and cheese Stouffer’s Supreme Shells & Cheese. Stouffer’s Supreme Shells & Cheese is made with dry pasta and a liquid cheese sauce and will be offered in two flavor varieties, Cheddar Cheese and Three Cheese, with additional innovations to rollout in 2025 and beyond.
White Castle is unveiling a brand-new Double Cheese Slider for retail freezer aisles
White Castle first delivered its iconic Sliders to Cravers via retail stores in 1987, when it launched its retail division, the first fast-food chains to do so. In the 37 years since the Slider’s retail debut, Cravers have warmed up more than 6.5 billion frozen Sliders. Offerings that began with frozen Original Sliders have since expanded to include Classic Cheese Sliders, Chicken Breast Sliders, Chicken & Cheese Sliders and Jalapeno Cheese Slider.
Out-of-Home Advertising to Maximize Exposure
By Graydon Megan, Co-Owner of View Chicago
In today’s digital age, integrating out-of-home (OOH) advertising with digital marketing is crucial for maximizing brand visibility and engagement. Traditional marketing methods, like billboards and wallscapes, continue to offer high return on investment by reaching audiences in physical spaces where they spend significant time. Combining these with digital strategies can amplify your brand’s presence and effectiveness.
to a broader audience.
Focusing on a single URL in your ads simplifies user engagement. A memorable URL directs viewers to a comprehensive landing page, integrating seamlessly with your digital presence and facilitating easier tracking of campaign success.
Engagement is key. OOH ads can drive interaction by encouraging community involvement. For example, Truff’s “Best Pizza in Chicago” campaign invited locals to vote for their favorite pizza, boosting both brand awareness and local engagement through strategically placed billboards.
Using OOH ads as business cards expands your networking reach. By showcasing your contact details and services on billboards or HotSpots, you can effectively spread your brand’s message
Campaign-specific URLs provide more accurate web traffic analysis. Tailor URLs to specific campaigns to monitor which ads drive the most traffic and adjust strategies accordingly. Directing viewers to social media handles enhances online engagement. Promoting your Instagram on billboards can increase your social media following and interaction.
For personalized assistance in implementing these strategies, partnering with a company like View Chicago can help bring your creative ideas to life effectively.
Nuggets
The McCormick brand introduces six limited-edition Holiday Finishing Sugars to sprinkle holiday celebrations with joy and nostalgia. Get inspired to bake, decorate, rim and mix-in festive flavor with Candy Cane, English Toffee, Salted Caramel, Hot Cocoa, Gingerbread Spice, and White Frosting flavors. Look for them in grocery retailers nationwide, while supplies last, on specialty displays alongside other holiday essentials from McCormick. Photo: McCormick
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
Gratitude is the best attitude. Change your attitude and change your life.
Chrysanthemums (often called mums) are the birth flower for November and symbolize happiness, have antioxidant properties, and are used in traditional medicine. Chrysanthemums come in a stunning array of colors and flower forms, making them a versatile choice for floral arrangements and garden displays. Handwashing is the first step to protect you and everyone around your Thanksgiving table. It’s also the best way to keep uninvited guests like bacteria out of your kitchen. In several observational studies, USDA found that consumers repeatedly failed to properly wash their hands, specifically not scrubbing their hands with soap for the 20 seconds required to remove germs. Health experts recommend aiming for at least seven hours of sleep per night . As noted by the Mayo Clinic, adequate sleep may help boost overall memory and brain health by giving the brain time to effectively consolidate memories.
Hockey: Faster Than Ever –exhibit at Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, now – Jan. 5, 2025 takes you on an exciting journey through the evolution of ice hockey, showcasing the remarkable technical advancements and scientific breakthroughs that have shaped the sport over time. From cutting-edge technologies to the physics of play. Looking for a quick and easy dessert to serve to your guests for Thanksgiving? Check out the recipe at Kraft Heinz for the Double - Layer Pumpkin pie. Ingredients include cool whip, vanilla pudding, Philadelphia cream cheese, pumpkin and a graham cracker pie crust. MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, NJ, is the home of the New York Jets and New York Football Giants. It is one of the largest stadiums in the NFL with a capacity of 82,500. MetLife Stadium hosts the world’s biggest
events on the world’s biggest stage and will serve as host stadium for the FIFA World Cup 2026. More than 80% of Americans are consuming the same or more family meals in the past year, according to new data released by the FMI Foundation. More than 90% expect they will continue doing so in the future. Family meals free from distractions provide a chance to positively influence eating behavior and improve health and well-being. Nickelodeon will kick off the holiday season with two brandnew elements at the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 28. The new Parade entries will showcase popular characters from Nickelodeon’s hit animated series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment, and new Paramount+ original series, DORA. Thanksgiving is a big day for football . NFL Thanksgiving schedule 2024: Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions 12:30 p.m. ET on CBS, New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys-4:30 p.m. ET on Fox, and Miami Dolphins at Green Bay Packers 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC. The American Gaming Association fosters a policy and business environment where legal, regulated gaming thrives. The AGA’s diverse membership of commercial and tribal casino operators, sports betting and Gaming companies, gaming suppliers, and more lead the $261 billion industry and support 1.8 million jobs across the country.
The Toy Insider – the toy industry’s most influential organization and the No. 1 toy resource for parents and gift-givers, unveiled its picks for the best toys, games and gifts of 2024 in its 19th annual Holiday Gift Guide. This year’s hottest toys appear on one of three featured lists: the Hot 20, the most popular playthings of the year; the STEM 10, top toys that encourage STEM learning; and the 12 Under $20.
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BAKERY-PRODUCTS
Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 40 773-801-1600
Instantwhip Chicago Page 03 773-235-5588
BAKLAVA
Libanais Sweets
BANKING- COMMERCIAL
847-329-5060
Fifth Third Commerical Bank Page 26 847-757-1885
BANNERS & POSTERS
Accurate Printing
BAR STOOLS
Chicago Booth Page 02
Trendler Inc
708-824-0058
773-378-8400
773-255-4407
Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054
BAR SUPPLIES
Ramar Supply Co Page 24
Schultz Supply
BATCH FREEZERS
Kool Technologies Page 30
BBQ SAUCE
Ken’s Foods Page 48
MUMBO BBQ SAUCE Page 16
Red Gold
BBQ SAUCE- RUBS & SEASONINGS
708-233-0808
708-652-2020
630-483-2256
800-633-5800
773-994-8889
765-557-5500
Pork Mafia Inc Page 46 312-543-5368
BEEF
MacCARB Page 18
BEVERAGES
Boba
BOOTHS-UPHOLSTERERS
877-427-2499
CANDIED BACON
The Peanut Butter Pig Food Mfg Page 16 847-204-4925
CANNOLI & CANNOLI PRODUCTS
Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 15 708-547-5969
CARAMEL APPLES
Morkes Chocolates Page 06 847-359-3454
CARPET CLEANING
Sexton Group Floor Care Page 41 847-827-1188
CARRY OUT PACKAGING
Bulldog Packaging 630-458-1152
CARRYOUT & CATERING PACKAGING
Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688
CASH & CARRY OUTLETS
Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 40 773-801-1600 CHAIRS
Trendler Inc 773-255-4407
CHAIRS-COMMERCIAL
Chicago Booth Page 02 773-378-8400
Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054
CHARCUTERIE ITEMS
Specialty Food Show 212-482-6440
CHEESECAKES
Eli’s Cheesecakes Page 20 773-736-7417
CHEESES
Wiscon - Caputo Cheese Page 09 708-450-0074
Specialty Food Show 212-482-6440
CHICKEN-PROGRAMS
FSI/Foodservice Solutions 847-719-6088
CHILI
Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) 773-278-7800
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
Food Industry News 847-699-3300
CLEANING PRODUCTS
C-Soap a div of CSI Coker Service Page 40 888-908-5600
SuperClean 847-361-0289
CLEANING SERVICES
Cruz’s Cleaning Services Page 14 630-379-3732 CO2
MacCARB Page 18 877-427-2499
COFFEE ROASTERS
Tec Foods Inc
773-638-5310
Tugboat Coffee 630-390-6613
COFFEE SHOP PRODUCTS
Boba Direct Page 06 866-4US-BOBA COLD STORAGE
Perishable Distribution Solutions Page 09 888-491-1641
COMMISSARY SPACE RENTAL
The Peanut Butter Pig Food Mfg Page 16 847-204-4925 COMPRESSED GAS
MacCARB Page 18 877-427-2499 CONDIMENTS
Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam 415-737-5265
CONFECTIONS & CHOCOLATES
Morkes Chocolates Page 06 847-359-3454
CONSULTANTS - BBQ
Pork Mafia Inc Page 46 312-543-5368
CONTRACT LABOR SERVICES
Atlas Employment Services Page 23 847-671-1557
CONTRACT MANUFACTURING
Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) 773-278-7800
COOKING EQUIPMENT
Ramar Supply Co Page 24 708-233-0808
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
COOKING EQUIPMENT-REPAIR
Mr Appliance of West Loop Page 14 312-626-5467
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
CORNED BEEF-FRESH
Vienna Beef Page 43 773-278-7800
CORPORATE GIFTS
Vienna Beef Page 43 773-278-7800
CRACKERS
Specialty Food Show 212-482-6440
CREDIT CARD PROCESSING
CardConnect-Clover Systems 224-325-4466
CREPE BATTER
Tec Foods Inc 773-638-5310
DAIRY-DISTRIBUTOR
Instantwhip Chicago Page 03 773-235-5588
DATABASE SOFTWARE CONSULTING
IT Impact Inc
DESSERT SUPPLIES
312-806-7438
Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005
DESSERTS
Chicago Sweet Connection Page 47 773-283-4430
Eli’s Cheesecakes Page 20 773-736-7417
Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005
DESSERTS-WHOLESALE
Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 15 708-547-5969
DIRECT MAIL PROGRAMS
Food Industry News 847-699-3300
DISHWASHING & CHEMICALS
C-Soap a div of CSI Coker Service Page 40 888-908-5600
DISINFECTING SERVICES
Sexton Group Floor Care Page 41 847-827-1188
DISPOSABLE PACKAGING
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
Wan Xin Lin inc 773-648-0766
DONUTS
Morkes Chocolates Page 06 847-359-3454
DRAM SHOP INSURANCE
Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 29 847-866-7400
DRAPERIES-CLEANING
Sexton Group Floor Care Page 41 847-827-1188
DUCT CLEANING
Enviromatic Corp of America Page 03 800-325-8476
Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344
EGGS
Meadowbrook Egg & Dairy Company 773-523-8861
EMPLOYEE HANDBOOKS
Employco USA Page 42 630-920-0000
EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEYS
Rob Bernstein - Laner Muchin 312-342-7778
EMPLOYMENT LAW
Laner Muchin 312-467-9800
ENERGY BROKER
Century Energy Solutions Page 20 630-817-3164
ETHNIC FOODS
Alexandra’s Foods Page 02 773-282-3820
Kikkoman Sales USA 630-954-1244
FAUCETS - COMMERCIAL
The Faucet Professionals Page 12 847-282-0075
FILTERS-EXHAUST SYSTEMS
Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344
FIRE SUPRESSION SYSTEMS
Fox Valley Fire & Safety Page 22 847-695-5990
FLOOR INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE
Sexton Complete Floor Care Page 41 847-827-1188
FOOD DISTRIBUTORS
B & B Food Services Page 43 815-834-2621
Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 40 773-801-1600
Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070
Performance Foodservice Page 13 630-896-1991
Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004
Chef’s Quality Meats 708-333-0880
Cugini Distribution 708-695-9471
Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358
Tec Foods Inc 773-638-5310
Wilkens Foodservice 708-235-0788
FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY
Food & Bev Deli Page 25
773-664-4024
Food Photo Studio Page 04 630-283-0038
FOOD PRODUCTION SPACE
The Peanut Butter Pig Food Mfg Page 16 847-204-4925
FOOD PRODUCTS
Devanco Foods Page 44
FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT-REPAIR
CSI Page 26
Berkel Midwest
Cobblestone Ovens
847-228-7070
Wiscon - Caputo Cheese Page 09 708-450-0074
Neil Jones Food Company
800-543-4356
Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358
Specialty Food Show 212-482-6440
FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT
Thunderbird Food Machinery Page 12
Berkel Midwest
Losurdo Inc
866-451-1668
800-921-9151
630-833-4650
Redco Foodservice Equipment 800-722-5460
888-908-5600
800-921-9151
847-635-0172
Ice Solutions 24 847-987-9738
FOODSERVICE PACKAGING & DISPOSABLES
Kranz Inc Division of Imperial Dade
&
FOODSERVICE-EQUIPMENT PARTS
CSI Page 26
Berkel Midwest
630-254-6666
888-908-5600
800-921-9151
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONER SERVICE & REP
Mechanical 24 Page 27 847-987-9738
HELIUM
MacCARB Page 18 877-427-2499
HISPANIC FOOD DISTRIBUTION
B & B Food Services Page 43 815-834-2621
HOOD EXHAUST & FAN CLEANING
Enviromatic Corp of America Page 03
800-325-8476
Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344
HOT DOGS
Vienna Beef Page 43 773-278-7800
Crawford Sausage 773-277-3095
Red Hot Chicago 800-249-5226
ICE CREAM
Homer’s Gourmet Ice Cream Page 03 847-251-0477
Instantwhip Chicago Page 03 773-235-5588
Capannari Ice Cream 847-392-2277
Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005
ICE CREAM EQUIPMENT REPAIR & SUPPLY
Kool Technologies Page 30 630-483-2256
ICE CREAM-EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY
Kool Technologies Page 30 630-483-2256
ICE CREAM-YOGURT
Instantwhip Chicago Page 03 773-235-5588
ICE MACHINE REPAIR & SANITIZING
Major Appliance Service
ICE MACHINES
Redco Foodservice Equipment
ICE MACHINES-SALES-RENTAL OR LEASING
708-447-4100
800-722-5460
Empire Cooler Service 312-733-3900
Ice Solutions 24 847-987-9738
INSURANCE
Cacciatore Insurance Page 08 312-264-6055
Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 29 847-866-7400
ISU Northwest Insurance Services 847-310-0400
Society Insurance 888-576-2438
WM Schwartz Insurance/Gus Romas 847-525-2846
INSURANCE SERVICES
Cacciatore Insurance Page 08 312-264-6055
INSURANCE UNDERWRITTING
Society Insurance 888-576-2438
INSURANCE-INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL
Cacciatore Insurance Page 08 312-264-6055
Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 29 847-866-7400
INTERIOR DESIGNERS
Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100
INTERNET ADVERTISING
Food Industry News 847-699-3300
INTERNET PROVIDERS - COMMERCIAL
Astound Broadband 312-270-5408
ITALIAN BEEF
Bari Beef Page 08 847-695-7555
Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070
Serrelli’s Foods Page 26 877-385-BEEF
Red Hot Chicago 800-249-5226
ITALIAN FOOD SPECIALTIES
E Formella & Sons Page 04 877-598-0909
ITALIAN SAUSAGE
Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004
JANITOR-SUPPLIES
Ramar Supply Co Page 24 708-233-0808
Kranz Inc Division of Imperial Dade 630-254-2666
JAPANESE-FOOD PRODUCTS
Kikkoman Sales USA 630-954-1244
JUICER REPAIR & MAINTENANCE
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
JUICERS-FRUIT & VEGETABLES
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
KETCHUP
Red Gold
KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
KNIFE-SHARPENING SERVICE
Cozziini Brothers Inc Page 21 888-846-7785
LABEL PRINTERS
Edwards Label Printing 847-663-6600
LAW FIRMS
Tuckey Law Page 18 312-701-2200
Laner Muchin 312-467-9800
LINEN SUPPLY & RENTAL SERVICE
Cosmopolitan Textile 773-254-6100
LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE
Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 29 847-866-7400
LOGISTICS COMPANIES
Perishable Distribution Solutions Page 09 888-491-1641
MATERIALS HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Voss Equipment 708-596-7000
MAYONNAISE
Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 07 773-265-6500
MEAT DISTRIBUTORS
Wagyu Stars 312-866-4712
MEAT PROCESSING EQUIP SALES & SERVICE
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
MEAT-SPECIALTY
Specialty Food Show 212-482-6440
MEAT-WHOLESALE
Devanco Foods Page 44 847-228-7070
New S B L Inc Page 30 773-376-8280
Park Packing Company Page 29 773-254-0100
Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004
Chef’s Quality Meats 708-333-0880
International Meat Company 773-622-1400
MEATS -WHOLE PIGS-GOATS-LAMB
Park Packing Company Page 29 773-254-0100
MEDITERRANEAN FOODS
Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358
MENUS-CUSTOM PRINTED
Accurate Printing 708-824-0058
MEXICAN FOOD PRODUCTS
B & B Food Services Page 43 815-834-2621
MILK
Instantwhip Chicago Page 03 773-235-5588
NEIGHBORHOOD MARKETING
LED Billboard Trucks 312-924-7979
NITROGEN
MacCARB Page 18 877-427-2499
OILS & FATS-COOKING
Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 07 773-265-6500
OILS & SHORTENING
Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 07 773-265-6500
OILS & VINEGAR
Pastorelli Foods
OILS-COOKING/BULK
800-SOS-AUCY
Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 07 773-265-6500
OLIVE OILS
Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 07 773-265-6500
ORGANIC FOODS
Pastorelli Foods
OVENS-PIZZA
Cobblestone Ovens
800-SOS-AUCY
847-635-0172
North American Pizza & Culinary Academy 630-395-9958
OVENS-SALES & SERVICE
Cobblestone Ovens 847-635-0172
PAINTING CONTRACTORS
Sexton Group Floor Care Page 41 847-827-1188
PALLET JACKS
Voss Equipment
PALLETS - ALL TYPES
765-557-5500
A D E Foodservice Equipment 630-628-0811
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
KITCHEN FLOORING
Sexton Complete Floor Care Page 41
KITCHEN-EXHAUST SYSTEMS/CLEANING
Enviromatic Corp of America Page 03
847-827-1188
800-325-8476
Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344
708-596-7000
Walnut Grove Packaging Page 46 217-268-5112
PALLETS- BUY & SELL
Amex Recycling Inc Page 24 815-823-7958
PANCAKE-BATTER & MIX
Tec Foods Inc
PAPER-PRODUCTS
Ramar Supply Co Page 24
PASTA-FRESH AND FROZEN
Cugini Distribution
773-638-5310
708-233-0808
Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688
PARTY-FAVORS & SUPPLIES
Ramar Supply Co Page 24 708-233-0808
708-695-9471
Pastafresh Home Made Pasta 773-745-5888
PASTRIES
Chicago Sweet Connection Page 47 773-283-4430
PATIO ENCLOSURES
Thatcher Oaks Awnings 630-833-5700
PATIO HEATERS
TNG Industries Page 29 708-449-1100
PATTY MACHINES/FOOD FORMERS
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
PAYROLL
REFRIGERATION
Redco Foodservice Equipment
REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT REPAIR
800-722-5460
CSI Page 26 888-908-5600
Kool Technologies Page 30 630-483-2256
Mechanical 24 Page 27 847-987-9738
REFRIGERATION SERVICE
Ice Solutions 24 847-987-9738
REFRIGERATION-EQUIP/COMMERCIAL
Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 10 630-879-3131
Schultz Supply 708-652-2020
RESTAURANT CLEANING SERVICE
Cruz’s Cleaning Services Page 14 630-379-3732
RESTAURANT CONSULTANTS
Forklift Restaurant Consulting 312-493-6310
Stanovich Hospitality 708-359-1911
RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT
Wood Food Systems Page 12 847-949-9663
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
FSI/Foodservice Solutions 847-719-6088
Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650
Schultz Supply 708-652-2020
RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 10 630-879-3131
Federal Supply USA Page 19 847-623-1310
Ramar Supply Co Page 24 708-233-0808
Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
Schultz Supply 708-652-2020
RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT PARTS
CSI Page 26 888-908-5600
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR
CSI Page 26 888-908-5600
RM Services Page 10 331-300-7955
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR SERVICE
Mr Appliance of West Loop Page 14 312-626-5467
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
Cobblestone Ovens
Major Appliance Service
RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT-NEW & USED
847-635-0172
708-447-4100
K & L Liquidation Page 12 847-854-9913
March Quality Used & New Equip Page 27
800-210-5895
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
RESTAURANT INSURANCE
Society Insurance
RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE
888-576-2438
Toast 224-659-6534
RESTAURANT REAL ESTATE SALES
John Moauro/Realty Executives
708-361-1150
Nick Dibrizzi/Coldwell Banker 708-562-9328
Ted Aretos/ Eatz & Associates 815-761-8334
RESTAURANT-DESIGNERS
Losurdo Inc
Sarfatty Associates
RESTAURANT-MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
630-833-4650
847-920-1100
Chef Tec Page 10 800-447-1466
ROOF TOP GREASE CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS
Enviromatic Corp of America Page 03 800-325-8476
ROOFS-SALES-REPAIR & MAINTENANCE
Care Sheet Metal & Roofing Page 32 708-387-9784
SALAD-DRESSINGS
Ken’s Foods Page 48 800-633-5800
SALAD-DRESSINGS & OILS
Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 07 773-265-6500
Tec Foods Inc 773-638-5310
SANITATION CERTIFICATION
Illinois Restaurant Association Page 23 312-787-4000
SATELLITE TV SYSTEMS
All Sports Direct 630-918-3000
SAUSAGE
Vienna Beef Page 43 773-278-7800
Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004
Crawford Sausage 773-277-3095
Red Hot Chicago 800-249-5226
SCALES
Berkel Midwest
SEAFOOD
800-921-9151
Fisherman’s Pride Page 11 800-543-2110
SEASONING BLENDS AND RUBS
Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam 415-737-5265
SEATING
Trendler Inc
773-255-4407
Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054
SELF-SERVICE ORDERING KIOSKS
Infi Kiosks 888-857-9831
SEWER(MAINT)-RODDING & JETTING
Tierra Environmental Page 40 888-551-1998
SHAKE MIX
Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005
SHARED KITCHEN SPACE
The Peanut Butter Pig Food Mfg Page 16 847-204-4925
SHIPPING-REFRIGERATED & FROZEN
Perishable Distribution Solutions Page 09 888-491-1641
SHORTENING
Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 07 773-265-6500
SIGNAGE-INDOOR & OUTDOOR
American Graphics & Signs Inc
SLICERS - AUTOMATED
Berkel Midwest
888-774-6270
800-921-9151
CES Nationwide 773-533-3333
SLICERS-SALES & SERVICE
Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151
SNACK FOODS
The Peanut Butter Pig Food Mfg Page 16 847-204-4925
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
Food & Bev Deli Page 25 773-664-4024
SOFT DRINKS
PepsiCo Foodservice 773-893-2319
SOFT SERVE-ICE CREAM/EQUIP & SUPPLIES
Kool Technologies Page 30 630-483-2256
SOFT SERVICE MIX
Fox Valley Farms
SOFTWARE PROGRAMS - CUSTOM
630-231-3005
IT Impact Inc 312-806-7438
SOUP BASES
Tec Foods Inc
SOUPS
Vienna Beef Page 43
TEST KITCHEN SERVICES
B & B Food Services Page 43 815-834-2621
THEATERS AND VENUES
Onesti Entertainment Corporation 630-962-7000
TOMATO PRODUCTS
Neil Jones Food Company 800-543-4356
773-638-5310
773-278-7800
Bistro Soups (Div of Vienna Beef) 773-278-7800
SPECIALTY FOODS DISTRIBUTOR
Specialty Food Show 212-482-6440
SPICES
Tec Foods Inc
SPIRITS
R Jelinek Midwest
SPREADS - DIPS - GLAZES
773-638-5310
708-691-3895
Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam 415-737-5265
STAFFING-SERVICES
Atlas Employment Services Page 23 847-671-1557
STEAM CLEANING
Olympia Maintenance
SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT
Berkel Midwest
708-344-0344
800-921-9151
CES Nationwide 773-533-3333
SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT REPAIR
Berkel Midwest
SUPERMARKET- EQUIPMENT/ NEW & USED
Berkel Midwest
TABLES - DINING ROOM
i2i Design Page 28
TABLES-ALL TYPES
Chicago Booth Page 02
800-921-9151
800-921-9151
847-890-9684
773-378-8400
Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054
TAMALES
Supreme Frozen Products
TAX APPEALS (PROPERTY)
773-622-3777
Reveliotis Law PC Page 31 312-230-0160
TAX PAYMENTS
Cook County Treasurers Office 312-443-5100
TEMPORARY STAFFING
Atlas Employment Services Page 23 847-671-1557
Free for Food Business Professionals, Chefs, Owners, and Buyers. Free to Attend, Learn and Network. Free Food Tastings and Raffle Prizes.
MONDAY, DEC. 2
6727 N. Olmsted, Chicago 5 - 9 p.m. Moretti’s Chicago
Joe Fontana is Owner of Fry The Coop Restaurants. As Joe opens his ninth restaurant location, join us for insights on his secrets of success , including: progress is success; never stop learning; set goals, and work to accomplish them; when you stop moving forward is when you fail; and better yourself every day in some small way. Discover Joe’s insights of starting with one location and making grand plans to scale his restaurant concept. Free for industry professionals.
Demonstrate consistent presence with your best prospects.
Advertise in:
The annual Inde Spirits Expo was recently held again this year at the Hilton Towers Chicago This is one of the largest and longest running gatherings of small, independent, family owned, handcrafted spirits and the distillers, importers, bottlers, distributors and representative in one location. Guests sampled some of the best boutique vodkas, gins, rums, tequilas, mezcals, whiskies and liqueurs from all around the world, and Food Industry News was proud to be there, giving away magazines and gift bags to attendees. Thank you to our many readers who supported this event. Be sure to attend next year’s show
SoyStep is a superior composition of quartz chips blended with our proprietary epoxy resin. The odorless mixture gets troweled to a 3/16” layer over existing tile, wood or concrete surfaces. The finished surface is slip resistant, waterproof, non-porous and very durable. A floor will not trap odors, and eliminates the need to clean or repair grout.
Smashburger’s Brand Overhaul
Smashburger is overhauling its menu and branding, the company said recently. The overhaul includes eight new menu items, changes to the recipe for six existing items, and a new logo. These menu and branding changes followed a period of regional market testing, CEO Denise Nelsen said in a statement, though she did not disclose which regions were part of the pilot. Nelsen has focused Smashburger on culinary innovation and a return to unit growth since she took charge.
– Source: Restaurant Dive
Chicago Gourmet 2024 kicked off from September 21-29, delivering a series of fashion-inspired culinary events
This year’s theme, Fashion, Plated, seamlessly merged the worlds of food and fashion, showcasing vibrant, creative events. World-class chefs, sommeliers, renowned winemakers, and spirit producers from across the country gathered to present their specialties to thousands of attendees. Guests enjoyed gourmet food, premium spirits, and wine amidst the stunning backdrop of Millennium Park. Chicago Gourmet 2024 not only celebrated culinary excellence but also benefited the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, contributing to the growth of the restaurant industry’s future workforce.
Texas de Brazil, the premier BrazilianAmerican steakhouse, announces the grand opening of its newest location in The Kenwood Collection, one of Cincinnati’s premier shopping destinations . This marks the first Texas de Brazil location in Cincinnati, offering diners a unique and authentic churrascaria experience. The new location will feature Texas de Brazil’s renowned rodizio-style dining, where patrons can indulge in a continuous service of perfectly seasoned meats, including filet mignon, lamb chops, Brazilian sausage, and the restaurant’s signature picanha. Complementing the endless selections of grilled meats is the gourmet salad area, boasting over 50 fresh and seasonal offerings, including charcuterie, imported cheeses, soups, and more.
“Before using a third-party app, try to order directly first.” Cary Miller
BOOKSHELF
Craveworthy Baking
Author: Danielle Cochran
Publisher: Fair Winds Press
ISBN-13: 978-0760388471
Finally, dairy-free and gluten-free recipes for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, bars, sweet breads, and savory breads that don’t compromise on taste or texture
If you follow a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, or both, you know how challenging it can be to find and adapt recipes for it—especially for baked goods. Author Danielle Cochran (The Salty Cooker) knows this struggle well. She’s spent years adapting and refining recipes to work without dairy and gluten and to be just as delectable as the original. Every recipe she creates must pass the test: “No one will know this is gluten-free and dairy-free.”
Delicious results aside, what sets Danielle’s recipes apart from other gluten-free and dairy-free recipes is their flexibility. If you don’t need to cut the dairy or gluten, you can swap in traditional ingredients 1:1 – no math required!
In Craveworthy Baking, Danielle shares her ultimate collection of recipes. As you dive into creating them, she will be at your side with tips for perfecting your baking techniques, modifying the recipes to suit your preferences, and presenting them with flair.
MONDAY, DEC. 2
N. Olmsted, Chicago 5 - 9 p.m. Moretti’s Chicago Free for Food Business Professionals, Chefs, Owners, and Buyers. Free to Attend, Learn and Network. Free Food Tastings and Raffle Prizes.
Joe Fontana is Owner of Fry The Coop Restaurants. As Joe opens his ninth restaurant location, join us for insights on his secrets of success , including: progress is success; never stop learning; set goals, and work to accomplish them; when you stop moving forward is when you fail; and better yourself every day in some small way. Discover Joe’s insights of starting with one location and making grand plans to scale his restaurant concept. Free for industry professionals.
CHICAGO’S #1 BBQ SPICE EXPERT
As one of the industry’s most respected BBQ experts, Phil Wingo is passionate about helping others. From our full line of rubs, seasonings, blends and sauces to customized and private label items available in Bulk and Retail Sizes, we have the products and expertise to help you generate new sales and profits! Call us today.
Seasoning Blends and Rubs
BBQ and Hot Sauces
Nashville Hot Chicken, Breadings and Marinades
Ubons Bloody Mary Mix
Live Fire and Smoked
Meat Consulting
Private Label/Custom Blends
FOOD - GRADE PALLETS
With VALERIE MILLER TRAVEL
Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas Reveals Enchanting Holiday Programming For 2024
The Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas invites guests to experience a season of wonder in the Caribbean’s most enchanting vacation place. Ushering in new holiday events to complement family traditions, the resort has prepared an array of exciting Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s programming, including the beloved appearance of RitzCarlton Elf and the lavish poolside cabana for the New Year’s Eve soirée.
Offering an abundance of exclusive activities and events for all ages, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas Ladies and Gentlemen are committed to gifting each guest with indelible memories. Each holiday dinner has been customized by the resort’s accomplished culinary team, combining traditional dishes with Caribbean flavors. Guests are invited to set sail on the Lady Lynsey II with the introduction of new seasonal excursions, take part in the Topgolf Swing Suite experience, or indulge in one of the seasonal Spa treatments for a day of relaxation.
Thanksgiving Sunny days and starry nights draw families to the destination for seasonal festivities, including the Archipelago Breakfast, an island-inspired feast to kick off Thanksgiving Day and the Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade, a joyful spectacle showcasing the island culture with carnival dancers and a steel pan band. Additional festivities include the Gratitude Dinner at Sails, an epicurean Caribbean inspired three-course feast, a traditional buffet style Thanksgiving Harvest Meal at Coconut Cove, and a Holiday Bazaar, featuring the works of local artisans, seasonal entertainment, and sweet snacks.
On the first night of Hanukkah, a local rabbi will conduct the lighting of the menorah at
the Grand Palazzo building. In the lead-up to Christmas, all manner of decadent holiday feasts are offered, from a delectable seafood holiday Tropical Tidings Dinner, exclusive to The Ritz-Carlton Sails restaurant to the Christmas Carol-Oke talent in the Topgolf Suite at the Grand Palazzo.
In true holiday spirit, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas joyfully welcomes the arrival of the Ritz-Carlton Elf, who is busy trying out all the activities St. Thomas has to offer. Each morning, the Elf appears at a new location on the property, waiting to be found. The first person to discover the Elf will win a special prize. Younger guests and toddlers can also enjoy a holiday movie night by the family pool, complete with hot chocolate and popcorn. The luxury beach resort has alluring, holiday-themed treatments at The Ritz-Carlton spa, including the Under the Mistletoe Couple’s Massage, an 80-minute massage featuring The Ritz-Carlton’s signature Body Butter and Foot Reviver to ease tension. Additional treatments include a Chocolate Berry Hydrafacial, a Cranberry Crush Manicure, Santa’s Salt Stone massage and more.
Guests seeking a lavish getaway may reserve the festive package to prioritize selfcare, unwind, and recharge during the holiday season. Available from December 19 - 26, 2024 the overnight package will offer a complimentary upgrade, an unforgettable experience on Lady Lynsey II, $100 USD resort credit daily and breakfast for up to two guests daily. To book use code: FOO.
For more information about The RitzCarlton, St. Thomas and its holiday programming and schedule of events, visit: bit.ly/FestiveRCStThomas.
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas: Set within a 30-acre beachfront estate overlooking the turquoise waters of Great Bay in the US Virgin Islands, The Ritz Carlton, St Thomas is the perfect hideaway. Home to 180 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, all designed to enhance the natural beauty of the Caribbean Sea. An elegant spa offers a bespoke collection of revitalizing and relaxing treatments, while four dining venues present guests with a diverse array of epicurean delights. For more information visit: ritzcarlton.com/stthomas.
• Offering Beautiful and Delicious Desserts for Every Menu.
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• Mile-High Family-Style Restaurant Cakes and over 300 other items available, many pre-sliced.
