Food Industry News: November 2025

Cooper’s Hawk Expands Piccolo Buco to Naperville; Schaumburg Location Planned for 2026

Roman trattoria brings authentic flavors of Rome and Neapolitan-style pizza to Chicago’s western suburbs

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants has opened the second U.S. location of Piccolo Buco in Naperville, Illinois, following the success of its Oak Brook debut. A third location is already planned for Schaumburg in 2026.

Piccolo Buco, created in collaboration with Chef Luca Issa of the original Roman trattoria in Italy, transports guests to Rome with its distinctive atmosphere and menu. Founder and CEO Tim McEnery discovered the concept while traveling in Rome and sought to bring its one-ofa-kind pizza experience to Chicagoland.

Located in the Block 59 development, the Naperville restaurant offers 195 seats, including 68 on an enclosed patio reminiscent of a Roman bistro. Design highlights include ornate ceiling stenciling, custom wallcoverings of iconic monuments, vintage gallery walls, and playful nods to the Trevi Fountain.

The menu features Chef Luca’s signature “Red, Yellow or White” pizza, celebrated for its tall, crown-like crust, alongside Roman favorites such as Cacio e Pepe, Truffle Fondue Cappellacci, and Braised Short Ribs. Starters include Mama Luca’s Meatballs and Crispy Stuffed Squash Blossoms, with desserts like Tiramisu and Raffaello Gelato.

Hawksmoor Chicago

Launches Beef & Liberty Bar

Fresh off being named the #2 Best Steak Restaurant Group in the World by World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants, Hawksmoor, the acclaimed Londonborn steakhouse with locations in London, Dublin, New York, and Chicago, has opened Beef & Liberty Bar, a London-inspired cocktail destination housed on the second floor of Hawksmoor Chicago’s landmark River North home. Since opening in 2024, the second-floor bar has become a magnet for world-class collaborations, with Hawksmoor’s award-winning beverage team hosting Sip & Guzzle (New York), recently named Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar at the 2025 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards, Satan’s Whiskers (East London), ranked #29 on the World’s 50 Best Bars, and Vesper (Bangkok), ranked #29 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Local favorites, including The Meadowlark, Daisies and Sportsman’s Club, have also joined Hawksmoor’s martini collaboration series, cementing the restaurant’s reputation as a leading destination for serious cocktail culture.

llinois Gears

Up for the Route 66 Centennial in 2026

As the world prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of America’s most iconic highway, Illinois is leading the charge with a slate of new attractions, immersive experiences and major events designed to honor the legacy and the future of Route 66. From vintage murals and larger-than-life Muffler Men to Route 66 classic car events and traveling the “Mother Road” by electric vehicle, Illinois is embracing Route 66’s centennial with passion and pride. For more info visit EnjoyIllinois.com

Heinen’s Opens 5th Chicagoland Location

Heinen’s Grocery Store opened its newest location at 1244 East Chicago Ave in Naperville, Illinois. For 96 years, Heinen’s has built its reputation on a steadfast commitment to quality products and exceptional customer service. The Naperville store marks the company’s fifth location in Chicagoland and will showcase Heinen’s signature fresh departments, including premium meat, seafood delivered six days a week, and Midwest-grown produce. Guests will also enjoy chef-crafted

meal inspiration, wine and beer by the glass, and fresh-made tacos, bowls, quesadillas, and burritos from Heinen’s in-store restaurant.

Heinen’s was Founded in 1929 by local butcher Joe Heinen in Shaker Heights, Ohio. Heinen’s operates 19 locations in Northeast Ohio and five in the Chicago suburbs. Still family owned and led by the third and fourth generations, Heinen’s remains committed to delivering unrivaled food quality and world-class customer service.

Olympia Foods Named Food Supplier of the Year by Taziki’s

Big congratulations to Franklin Park’s own Olympia Foods! Makers of top-quality pita breads, gyros, and more, they’ve just been awarded Food Supplier of the Year by Taziki’s Mediterranean Café. Taziki’s serves real, honest food. Prioritizing fresh, minimally processed ingredients and making food to order are their core principles. For 27 years, the chain has been passionate about offering the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in an approachable way. Their dishes let the quality of wholesome components like olive oil, herbs, and seasonal produce shine through without unnecessary complexity. This is all made possible with their trusted partners, producers and makers.

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DINING WITH

November 2025

ALBANESE CONFECTIONERY

5441 E. Lincoln Hwy. MERRILLVILLE, IN 219-947-3070.

Since 1960, Fox Valley Fire & Safety has proudly focused on serving the needs of its customers. What began in a basement with one truck selling and servicing fire extinguishers has grown into a company with more than 100 service vehicles, over 300 employees, and a 46,000 sq. ft. headquarters. A true measure of a great company is the loyalty of its people, and at Fox Valley Fire, employees often stay until retirement. Recently, the team gathered to celebrate one such milestone: the retirement of longtime marketing director Deb Chin . Deb’s career was honored with a special luncheon and a fabulous cake.

This is a candy lovers paradise. They have a huge assortment of gummi bears, even chocolate covered ones. You can even request just one specific flavor. They have plenty of chocolates, nut mixes and gift items. If you buy in bulk, you can get to try more candy. Plus, you can ask for samples. I picked up some milk chocolate, dark chocolate and yogurt covered pretzels. I also bought a few pieces of chocolate almond butter crunch and a few containers of the fall gummi pumpkins that were already packaged and came with an orange bow.

FLIPS • 340 Roosevelt Rd. GLEN ELLYN, IL 630-469-5828. They have been around for over five decades. The menu is huge; they have burgers, BBQ, chicken, hot dogs, Italian beef, gyros, Philly bowls, salads, souvlaki, specialty dinners, steak sandwiches, subs, and so much more. I tried their Fliprib sandwich, which was topped with onions and pickles. The bread, the sauce and the meat were so delicious. I also tried the pork souvlaki with Greek potatoes, which was tasty. The staff there were so nice. I was eyeing the burgers on the menu, which I definitely will order next time I stop by.

KUPPIE’S BAKERY • 42 S. Villa Ave. VILLA PARK, IL 630-832-0929. This is a small bakery located in a strip mall. The cases are filled with fresh baked goods including coffee cakes, doughnuts, cupcakes, Danish and croissants. My friends picked up a few croissants including a fried croissant and a couple cherry turnovers. I picked up a blueberry Danish and a donut filled with raspberry jelly. We couldn’t wait to try our goodies, so we sampled them right away in the parking lot. They were fresh and delicious! The person in the car next to us was doing the same thing – eating his treat in the car.

NONNA SILVIA’S TRATTORIA & PIZZERIA • 1400 Canfield Rd. PARK RIDGE, IL 847-292-9970. I’ve had a few people recommend this place to me, and I’m so glad they did. This is an outstanding Italian restaurant; the atmosphere is lovely and the food is amazing. On the menu they have pizza, homemade pasta dishes, chicken and veal entrées along with fresh salads and sandwiches. I dined outside on the patio. For starters, I had the Aranchi rice balls and an order of house made meatballs. For my entrée I had the Heritage Pork Chops with Vesuvio potatoes.

TANGLED ROOTS CRAFT BEER & KITCHEN • 140 Washington Square, WASHINGTON, IL 309-388-2300. Tangled Roots is all about high quality menus paired with authentic locallybrewed craft beers, in a relaxed small-town setting. I started by ordering a Kit Kupfer amber ale, which was one of the specialty beers on tap. For my meal, I had the Korean BBQ Chicken & Waffles, which was Korean barbecued fried chicken, sunny side up egg, pickled green onion, carrots, spicy maple glaze, spicy siracha aioli, and belgian waffles. Delicious! They have other locations in Illinois.

WING IT ON! • 333 S Schmale Rd, CAROL STREAM, IL 630-456-4513. This is a place that serves chicken wings, tenders, chicken sandwiches, loaded fries and more. I ordered 10 wings with fries and a drink. The wings can be tossed with your choice of sauce and you can split the sauces between your order. Half of my wings were Honey Blues (honey heat mixed with blue cheese), and the other half were Garlic Parm. All the wings had a lot of flavor and were spiced just right. It’s no wonder their sauces have won awards.

The Fresh Market Sweeps All Grocery Categories in USA Today 10

Best Readers’ Choice Awards

Leading specialty food retailer The Fresh Market was named the top grocery store across all categories in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. According to USA Today, The Fresh Market took first place in the coveted Best Grocery Store category, in addition to Best Store Bakery, Best Store Deli, Best Store for Produce and Best Store Prepared Food. This marks the first time the premium grocer has placed first in all categories.

Bold, New Thanksgiving Traditions

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with family, celebrating our blessings, and enjoying a culinary masterpiece, but it’s time to shake up the old tradition and enjoy something special.

Duck is the poultry of choice which provides a more forgiving culinary experience and has a richer, more sophisticated flavor that elevates the holiday meal.

Unmatched Flavor and Richness: Duck’s succulent red meat is more similar to a high-end cut of steak and is naturally more flavorful and elegant than turkey, providing a savory holiday treat that stands on its own.

Crispy, Golden Skin: The secret to a perfect roast duck is the incredibly crispy skin, which renders during cooking to create a flavor turkey can’t match.

A “Wow” Factor: Serving a perfectly roasted duck signals a different kind of Thanksgiving – one that is elegant, bold, unique, and a feast for the eyes.

Joe Jurgielewicz & Son, Ltd. –a leading purveyor of Pekin duck to the restaurant and foodservice industries across the nation and in select international markets – offers all-natural, fully roasted duck halves that are ready-to-serve within 15-20 minutes of heating. Perfect for a Thanksgiving celebration of any size that will leave guests asking for more.

BOOKSHELF

The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook

Author: Becky Libourel Diamond

Publisher: Globe Pequot Publishing

ISBN-13: 978-1493088423

Although most Americans have heard of sugar plums thanks to the famous holiday poem A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore, many have likely never have had the pleasure of tasting one of these luxuries, or even know what they really are (hint: they are not sugar-dusted plums). This is because sugar plums are one of the Gilded Age era holiday sweets that got eclipsed as America moved into the twentieth century. But The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook will bridge the past and present, bringing back sugar plums and other confections not typically found in modern cookbooks, while revisiting some beloved favorites.

With origins that date back to the nineteenth century and even earlier, the recipes in The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook have been adapted for today’s ingredients and appliances, allowing cooks to recreate them in their own modern kitchens. Each recipe will provide a colorful glimpse into the era, featuring the fascinating history behind each cookie, its ingredients and baking methods. There will also be sidebars throughout, offering tidbits of Christmas lore of the era.

Auctions and Appraisals

Chick-fil-A Debut’s ‘Daybright’

Chick-fil-A is set to debut Daybright, a beverage-focused concept, in Hiram, Ga., this fall, as a standalone brand on the site of a recently remodeled former Chick-fil-A. Daybright will operate under Chick-fil-A subsidiary Red Wagon Ventures, which was established to experiment with new restaurant ideas and services. Daybright comes amid a surge in quickservice chains entering the beverage market, with chains like McDonald’s, Taco Bell and KFC unveiling their own drink-focused brands.

– Source: QSR

Feeling the Drain on Bar Profits?

A bar offers you the opportunity to generate the most profits in your establishment, but is your bar a disorganized mess? Are you conducting inventory counts with no real process on how to use the data you gather or what it means? Or are you simply tired of the time-consuming and manual inventory processes that drain your remaining free time? If you are experiencing some of these common bar inventory challenges, it is time to talk with Sculpture Hospitality. They can help. Here are some common issues hurting owners profits they should be generating from their bar:

1. Overpouring: Free drinks might be good for some, but not for your bottom line.

2. Tech Troubles: Disconnected technologies create data silos and profit confusion.

3. Inventory Invisibility: No clear picture of what you have in stock? Recipe for disaster.

4. Cost of Goods Struggles: Unpredictable cost of goods sold (COGS) throws your budget out of whack.

5. Deadstock Dilemma: Dust bunnies collecting rent on your shelves = lost profits.

6. Overordering: Who needs a mountain of margarita mix? Not you, not anyone.

7. Data Disconnect: Inventory data sitting on your desk? That’s just untapped potential.

8. Unacceptable Variance: Dealing with inventory discrepancies? It’s time to find the leaks.

Now, these challenges might seem like a bad thing, but they’re not. They’re an opportunity to become more profitable. Sculpture Hospitality can help. Their innovative bar inventory solutions will increase your bar’s top line sales by 7 to 15 percent and reduce inventory asset losses from 15-30 percent down to 3 percent or better.

To increase your top-line sales by 30%, reduce your inventory asset losses and get a head start on your bar inventory, see page 43, and contact Sculpture Hospitality today for a free consultation. Discover when many of the leading and most profitable operators work with them and have done so for years.

– Find the Sculpture Hospitality ad on page 43.

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SUBSCRIBER

Frank Good’s One-of-a-Kind Cotton-Gin Smoker

Food Industry News is proud to celebrate longtime subscriber and Jimmy John’s franchise owner, Frank Good, who recently became the proud owner of a custom-built Cotton Gin Smoker – one of the first of its kind, crafted in Indiana.

This massive showpiece is mounted on a trailer with four wheels and stretches an impressive 26 feet in length, weighing in at 8,000 pounds. Built by Matt Messer of Cotton Gin Smokers, the design combines versatility, power, and old-world craftsmanship.

The smoker features not one but two 500-gallon smokers, a Texantinian grill for live fire cooking, a dedicated firebox, a pizza oven, and even a deep fryer, making it one of the most versatile outdoor cooking machines we’ve ever seen.

Messer, who personally oversaw its construction, admitted it was tough to see the smoker leave his shop. “I wished it was mine,” he joked. “I even threatened to keep it and cried when Frank pulled it out of the parking lot.”

With its unique capabilities and commanding presence, Frank’s Cotton Gin Smoker isn’t just a piece of equipment – it’s a rolling culinary powerhouse built for serious cooking and unforgettable gatherings.

Redco Now Stocks XLT Conveyor Ovens in Illinois

Redco Foodservice Equipment is pleased to announce that they now represent and stock XLT conveyor ovens at their Illinois facility, making it faster and easier than ever for operators in the region to access this industry-leading equipment.

Why XLT Conveyor Ovens

XLT has become a trusted name in foodservice for operators looking to improve quality, consistency, and efficiency in their kitchens. Compared to traditional deck ovens, XLT conveyor ovens deliver:

• Consistent Results: Products bake evenly every time, without the need for staff to rotate pans or monitor hot spots.

• Labor Savings: With simple load-and-go operation, even new employees can produce quality results, reducing training time and labor dependency.

• Higher Throughput: Conveyor ovens keep orders moving, helping operators serve more customers during peak hours.

• Lower Overall Costs: XLT ovens are designed for energy efficiency, reduced waste, and long-term durability.

• Industry-Leading Warranty : XLT offers one of the strongest warranties in the industry, including no out-of-pocket repair costs for up to 10 years.

• 24/7 Support & Long-Term Parts Availability: XLT minimizes downtime with round-the-clock service and reliable access to replacement parts.

• A Better Kitchen Environment: Ovens are engineered for a cooler, cleaner, and quieter operation.

– For more information, see their directory listing under Foodservice Equipment

CHEF PROFILE

Hammond Area

Career Center 5727 Sohl Ave, Hammond, IN 46320

City: Oak Brook

Jack Kevin Velazquez Jr.

Birthplace:

East Chicago Indiana

Current Position:

Chef/Culinary Instructor

First Foodservice Job: Bus Boy/Dishwasher at Shakey’s, back in high school.

Favorite Food: Pizza – any and all styles.

Awards/Honors:

• Nominated 2023 Chef of the Year of the ACF Chefs of Northwest Indiana Chapter

• Received a Coin of Excellence from ACF National President Chef Rene Marquis CEC, CCE, CCA, AAC

• Nominated 2024 Teacher of the Year by Lake Shore Chamber of Commerce

• Culinary Program was featured on the front page in the NWI Times

Memorable Customers: When I worked at Beer Geeks before I started teaching, we had a lot of blues players come in. Here are some that I cooked for – Billy Branch, Eric Gales, Coco Montoya, and good family friend, Carl Weathersby.

Worst Part of Job: Being a family man and also passionate about what I do, I miss out on family time.

Most Humorous Kitchen Mishap: Let’s just say when students start to work with the immersion blender on soup day, it could get messy.

Favorite Food to prepare: I love making paella; such a colorful and beautiful meal to present.

Veteran’s Day is Nov. 11

The purpose of Veterans Day is to honor any and all US veterans who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines – or any other part of the US Armed Forces in some capacity. “Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world. A veteran doesn’t have that problem.”

– Ronald Reagan

What part of the job gives the most pleasure: Seeing a student buy into the program after their first event or success at making a dish; I love seeing the “light bulb” turn on.

If you couldn’t be a chef, what would you be and why? I would love to work at a movie theater, maybe being a manager there. I love anything and everything about going to the movies.

Best advice you ever got was: There are people less qualified than you, doing the things you want to do simply because they decided to believe in themselves.

Where do you like to vacation? Anywhere as long as I’m with my family.

What do you enjoy most about FIN? The content and articles. It’s always great to receive updates about the region.

Who was your greatest culinary influence? Anthony Bourdain. Years ago I was in a horrible wreck and couldn’t walk for almost a year. His TV show keep me company on those tough days.

The Continental Restaurant and Farmer Brothers Coffee

The Continental Restaurant, Buffalo Grove, Illinois has been a member of the Greek American Restaurant Cooperative since inception, 2009. Peter Panayiotou takes advantage of all that GARC has to offer. When Peter heard about the Farmer Brother’s promotion, he was quick to meet with them and to review their value proposition. After reviewing the product line, various tasting with staff and loyal customers, Peter decided to switch. “I was surprised how many customers thought it was much better than what I was serving before. The price lock guarantee is saving me money, and I look forward to my check that will include the GARC rebate. Farmer Brother’s also supported my charity event, Michael Caponigri from Farmer Brothers, brewed and served three different coffees for the event and served coffee on the golf course for hours, a true partner,” said Panayiotou. The Farmer Brother’s promotion will continue until November 30, don’t wait, contact Jim Maroudas, membership director to set up an appointment at jmaroudas@garcpurchasing.com.

– You can see the GARC ad on page 27.

Real Estate Auction Experts

Local News

Tejon Indian Tribe and will be managed by Hard Rock International.

Brasero, known for its bold, woodfired Latin cuisine in the heart of West Town’s vibrant dining scene, announces the appointment of Brandon Bonilla as its new Chef de Cuisine and Zach Jakowich as Sous Chef. In close collaboration with Executive Chef and Owner John Manion, Bonilla now leads the kitchen at one of Chicago’s most exciting culinary destinations. Chicago-based Potbelly Corporation, the iconic neighborhood sandwich shop concept, will be acquired by RaceTrac one of the largest privately held companies in the U.S and a leading convenience retailer in an approximately $566M transaction. Chicago restaurateurs Phil Stefani and Chef Art Smith collaborate on ‘opportunity of a lifetime’ to lead sole restaurant and exclusive catering services at the Vatican’s Borgo Laudato Si’. Tapped by the Vatican on behalf of Pope Francis, Stefani and Smith have been selected as exclusive culinarians for the project, bringing farm-to-table Italian cuisine with global flavors to the 135-acre papal estate. Chicago’s Thanksgiving Parade - Where Grateful Hearts Gather will be held on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, 2025 on State St. from Ida B. Wells Dr. to Randolph St. in Downtown Chicago. Doughboy Restaurant Group, led by Chicago baker and restaurateur Rich Labriola, is bringing a bold new concept to the West Loop located at 852 Fulton Market in Spring 2026. Labriola Italian Specialties will feature award-winning pizza, house-made pasta, and signature bakery favorites like Sicilian cannoli and fresh baked bread. Portillo’s Inc., the fastcasual restaurant concept known for its menu of Chicago-style favorites, announced that its

Board of Directors has appointed Chairman of the Board Michael A. Miles, Jr., as Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Smack Dab, Teeny Forester’s woman-owned café and catering company on Chicago’s North side, brings inclusive gluten-free dining and catering to Chicago Events. What began as a neighborhood spot known for its cheesy herb biscuits and vegan donuts is now a growing presence in Chicago’s gluten-free dining scene. The Christkindlmarket will be held Nov. 21-Dec. 24, 2025 at 360 N. Broadway Ave. in Aurora, Illinois. It is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events & intercultural activities. The Neil Diamond Musical – A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, showstopping American rock icon. It will be playing at the Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St in Chicago Nov. 19-30, 2025. The Original Pancake House, a beloved family-owned dining destination, recently opened at 1124 W. Washington Blvd., on the ground floor of the Hyatt House Chicago/West LoopFulton Market. The owners are Lisa and Steve Sczurek alongside their daughter Alex Sczurek, who will serve as Operations Manager of the new location. The worldfamous Walnut Room was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. The Walnut Room, A Chicago Holiday Tradition is open for the holidays Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 11, 2026. Check for hours and availability. The Walnut Room is located in Macy’s at 111 N. State St. in Chicago.

Guests can also enjoy a new lunch menu featuring Sardinian-style sandwiches made with Piccolo Buco’s signature pizza dough.

An extensive wine list blends Italian varietals with Cooper’s Hawk’s award-winning selections, with exclusive benefits for the company’s 800,000 Wine Club members.

We’re thrilled to bring the Piccolo Buco experience, and best pizza, to Naperville,” said Tim McEnery, CEO/ Founder of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants. “Opening our second location marks an exciting milestone in bringing neighborhood-centered dining to more communities. We’re not just expanding our footprint – we’re deepening our commitment to creating gathering places where memories are made.”

Celebrating 20 Years, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants blends wine, dining, and retail into a unified experience. Founded in 2005 in Illinois, each venue features an upscalecasual restaurant, Napa-style tasting room, full bar, and wine retail shop. Their menus are crafted in a scratch kitchen, and every dish is paired with a suggested wine. The chain operates over 70 locations across multiple states.

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within the newly opened Forty Acres Fresh Market grocery store in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood along the Soul City Corridor, providing customers with practical tools and services to support healthier eating.

• Offering Beautiful and Delicious Desserts for Every Menu.

• On-Trend Innovative Desserts.

• Delivered Fresh, Directly to Your Kitchen!

• Cakes, Pastries, Grab-and-Go, and Savory Items.

• Mile-High Family-Style Restaurant Cakes and over 300 other items available, many pre- sliced.

Direct-to-Store Delivery in the following States and Areas: Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas City, Cleveland, Ohio, Kentucky

AROUND CHICAGO With VALERIE MILLER

Candlelite Chicago marked its 75th anniversary with a lively celebration at its original Rogers Park location, 7452 N. Western Avenue. Known for its iconic marquee and famous thin-crust tavern-style pizza, the restaurant treated guests to a night that felt like stepping back into 1950, when Candlelight first opened. The party featured a pizza-eating contest, a costume contest, and even two Elvis impersonators. The beloved pizzeria, which recently expanded with a new location at 1501 N. Kingsbury Street, continues to be a Chicago classic. Here are some photos from the event which raised money for Misericordia, an organization dedicated to supporting those with developmental disabilities.

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

Congratulations to the Illinois Restaurant Association for another outstanding year of Chicago Gourmet! The weekend festivities kicked off with the always-popular Hamburger Hop on Friday night, followed by Grand Cru on Saturday, and wrapped up with the lively Rise & Shine Gourmet Brunch on Sunday. More than 7,000 food and beverage enthusiasts came together to celebrate Chicagoland’s dynamic culinary scene. In addition to showcasing restaurants and talent, the event also made a difference: a generous check for $230,000 was presented to the Educational Foundation of the Illinois Restaurant Association by the Charlie and Rochelle Trotter Culinary Endowment . It’s another great example of how the IRA continues to promote, support, and strengthen Chicagoland restaurants! If you are not a member of the IRA, you should be. You can find the IRA on page 3.

Understanding pH Can Escalate Cooking

Understanding and manipulating the pH of ingredients can significantly enhance cooking. Acidic ingredients such as lemon juice and vinegar can brighten dishes and tenderize meat, while alkaline conditions accelerate the Maillard reaction, creating deeper flavors and colors. Alkaline processing is also used in food manufacturing to improve texture and nutritional value.

– Source: Serious Eats

Family-Owned

Anichini Brothers Celebrate 100 Years in Business

Silvio Anichini and his two brothers emigrated from Italy’s Tuscan region in 1920 and in 1925 established a small grocery store in River North. They quickly earned a reputation for quality meat and impeccable customer service.

They experienced the usual ups and downs that most companies went through during the Great Depression. But things changed drastically in 1943, when Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo, owners of Pizzeria Uno, met with Silvio seeking a special kind of sausage recipe for their new creation, deep-dish pizza. The new style of pizza took off in popularity and so did the reputation of Anichini Brothers Wholesale Meats. Soon the company was selling its sausage and other products to many well-known pizzerias including Pizzeria Duo, Gino’s East, Lou Malnati’s, Edwardo’s, Giordano’s and Nancy’s.

In the early 1970’s, Silvio handed over the reins to his son-in-law, Salvatore Gaddini. Over time, the company expanded its offerings to include premium cheeses, tomatoes, flour, oils and other essential pizza ingredients, catering to the evolving needs of its growing customer list. In the early 2000’s the third generation, which included Salvatore’s two sons and two daughters, took over the helm.

“We’re extremely grateful to those who have gone before us and dedicated their lives to the Anichini legacy,” said Lisa Lendy, President / CEO of the company. “With God’s help, the company has made it through depressions, recessions, wars and epidemics,” Lendy said.

The company still has its very first customer, the Italian Village, and they helped Dick Portillo get started in his first hot dog stand in Villa Park. Lendy estimates the company has helped feed more than one billion people. “And that’s just the first 100 years,” she said. “We can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

– You can see Anichini Brothers in our directory under Meat Wholesale.

Little Debbie Coffee Creamer for the Holidays

Little Debbie is introducing its first Christmas Tree Cakes Coffee Creamer, allowing fans to enjoy the flavor of the iconic holiday treat in their coffee. The creamer, which offers a sweet vanilla flavor reminiscent of the cakes, is rolling out at Walmart and other retailers.

– Source: allrecipes.com

Buc-ee’s, home of the world’s cleanest bathrooms, freshest food, and friendliest beaver, breaks ground on its newest travel center in Kansas City, KS. This will be their first location in Kansas -located at I-70 & West Village Parkway, Kansas City, KS. Buc-ee’s Kansas City will occupy 74,000 sq. feet and 120 fueling positions. The coffee shop market is projected to reach $290.24 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 3.5%. according to Maximize Market Research. The real question is no longer whether cafés are thriving, it’s how fast specialty coffee, digital platforms, and sustainability initiatives will redefine the global coffee culture.

CiderCon 2026, is being held at the Rhode Island Convention Center Feb. 2-5-2026. This year’s theme, “Crafting Cider’s Future Together,” is a call to action and a celebration of the creativity, collaboration, and sheer passion keeping our industry moving forward. Darden Restaurants and Feeding America are putting more wheels on the road to help end hunger. With a $2 million grant from the Darden Restaurants, Inc. Foundation and support from Penske Truck Leasing, nine additional Feeding America member food banks will receive 26-foot refrigerated trucks. IHG Hotels & Resorts, announces development opportunity availability in the U.S. for Ruby Hotels, its 20th global brand. As the latest addition to its premium collection of brands, Ruby will offer a new and attractive option for cost and style-conscious travelers in U.S. city centers.

Marcus Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company and division of Marcus Corporation, announced that the west wing of Hilton Milwaukee will reopen in early 2026 as The Marc Hotel, an independent 175-room hotel.

Mars, Incorporated, a global leader in confectionery, snacking, food and pet care products and services, has been included in the first edition of the World’s Best Companies 2025. This prestigious award is presented by TIME and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. Miller’s Ale House, the sports-themed restaurant known for great prices, friendly service and generous portions, has been named the No. 1 Sports Bar in the U.S. in USA Today’s Reader’s Choice survey. Target unwraps Bullseye’s Top Toys List, plus thousands of toys under $20 to shop all season long. For the first time, Target is hosting in-store toy demos every weekend from Nov. 8-Dec. 21 and has created a new holiday kids’ catalog to make toy shopping easy no matter how guests choose to shop. The 2025 New York BagelFest, presented by King Arthur Baking Company, will take over Citi Field on Nov. 16, transforming the venue into a culinary epicenter celebrating one of the world’s most beloved foods. Bagel makers from Madrid to Honolulu compete for top honors, and a shot at the international spotlight. The Ferrero Group announced the completion of its acquisition of WK Kellogg Co. WK Kellogg Co is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Ferrero. Acquisition is the next chapter in Ferrero’s proven strategy to acquire, invest in and grow iconic brands in North America, while also driving organic growth through brand innovation. The NGA Show 2026 is taking place February 1–3, 2026 (Exhibits: February 2–3) at their new home, the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas. The NGA Show brings together grocery retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and suppliers from across the country.

Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts take home a total of 16 titles at the 32nd annual World Travel Awards. General Managers from Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts celebrate 16 wins, including the coveted title of Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand, at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony, held at Sandals Grande St. Lucian.

Amazon announced the launch of Amazon Grocery: a new private label brand featuring more than 1,000 high-quality food items rated 4 stars or above. The brand unites Amazon’s customer favorite Amazon Fresh and Happy Belly brands into one cohesive grocery essentials collection, available through both Amazon.com and Amazon Fresh stores.

FreshEdge Announces Leadership Transition

FreshEdge, a leading family of fresh food distribution companies serving 25+ states, announced that Steve Grinstead will be transitioning into the role of Chairman of the Company effective December 31, 2025. Steve will continue to be actively involved in the business, focusing on industry, supplier, and customer relations. Greg Corsaro will remain President of FreshEdge. With more than 50 years of experience in all facets of the fresh food industry, Steve has successfully led FreshEdge as CEO since mid-2019 when Chicago-based Get Fresh Produce joined Indianapolis-based Piazza Produce and Indianapolis Fruit, forming FreshEdge. During his tenure with FreshEdge, Steve has led the growth of the family of companies to include numerous fresh food distributors across the U.S., establishing a consolidated procurement arm and logistics affiliate and, more recently, expanding FreshEdge’s value-added product and service offerings. FreshEdge’s growth during Steve’s time includes expansion to 25 facilities, 1,200 fleet assets, and 2,800 employees. Throughout his career, Steve has received numerous recognitions in the produce industry for his contributions, including his active involvement in the International Fresh Produce Association wherein he was recently elected US Council Chair.

Uber Invests in Drone Delivery

Uber has invested in Flytrex to pilot drone deliveries by the end of 2025, with plans to work with restaurants and retailers on implementing the drones for faster, more cost-effective and environmentally friendly deliveries. Flytrex, one of four companies with FAA clearance for flights beyond the visual line of sight, has delivered more than 200,000 meals to suburban homes in the past three years. Uber’s strategy for delivery expansion includes integrating drones alongside cars, bikes and sidewalk robots to offer multiple delivery modes.

– Restaurant Business

Authentic Lebanese Dining at Libanais Celebrates 10 Years in Lincolnwood

From the shores of the Mediterranean to Chicago, Libanais Restaurant, located at 3300 West Devon Avenue in Lincolnwood, offers guests an authentic taste of Lebanon. With over 80 years of family culinary experience that began in Beirut in 1935 with the famed Nasr Restaurant, the owners bring tradition, warmth, and flavor to every dish.

The restaurant’s atmosphere is designed to reflect the beauty of Lebanese culture, with a menu full of vibrant, elegantly garnished appetizers and entrées that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious. Guests are welcomed like family and treated to delicacies that set Libanais apart from other Middle Eastern dining spots. Ingredients are carefully selected – halal meats and poultry, organic chickpeas, hand-picked vegetables, and kosher sea salt – because the family believes that great ingredients create unforgettable recipes. In addition to the restaurant, the family operates a commercial food business producing the Libanais brand of Baklava, known for its wide assortment of shapes, fillings, and styles. Their products are sold in ethnic and mainstream independent and chain supermarkets nationwide. For an unforgettable dining experience or a sweet treat to take home visit Libanais Restaurant in Lincolnwood. If you are interested in their wholesale products, you can find them listed in our buyers directories under Baklava

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RESTAURANT CLEANING

Cary Miller Presents: PEOPLE SELLING THE FOOD INDUSTRY

Professionals dedicated to their craft – and to serving the food industry. These are companies you can trust to deliver excellence

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Act like an owner and know every detail of your business.

Dave Bachniak, Joe Rojas, and Jimmy DiCicco represent Chicago Booth Manufacturing Company, Chicago’s industry leader in crafting the perfect restaurant booth for any type of operation. Proudly made in Chicago, their Americanmade commercial furniture combines durability, beauty, and lasting value. Every booth is built to withstand years of use, backed by a quality guarantee that reflects the company’s commitment to excellence. If you’re looking for a booth that enhances your space and stands the test of time, contact Chicago Booth. See their ad on page 14.

Tim McGrail is a key player in Chicagoland’s restaurant business serving independent, chain and institutional accounts with his team at Pepsi. Driven by strong branding, value, consumer appeal, and reliable service, Tim leads a team of specialists who help operators choose the right products and equipment to boost sales and customer satisfaction. You can find Tim’s number listed under Soft Drinks in our buyers directory on page 36.

Danny Murray and Christina Lazos are with Toast. Toast offers over 200 integrations to help restaurant and food business owners streamline their tech stack while keeping the tools they need. Focused on the food and beverage industry, Toast’s platform simplifies training and operations while enhancing hospitality. When it’s time to upgrade your POS system, be sure to consider Toast.

Peggy Johns is the creator of Egg Life Wraps. Egg Life offers egg white wraps that are versatile, protein-packed, and fully cooked for easy use. Available in flavors like Roasted Garlic & Herb, Everything Bagel, Sweet Cinnamon, and Garden Salsa, these wraps are low carb, high protein, heart-healthy, and nutrient-rich. Made from cage-free eggs, keto-approved, sugar-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free, Egg Life products are sold in food service and retail channels. Produced locally by Rose Acre Farms, one of the nation’s top egg producers, Egg Life is perfect for operators looking to add healthy, innovative menu items.

Lance Avery is the creator of Big Fork Brands, a Chicagobased company offers on-trend food products for retail and food service, including gluten-free, nitrate-free bacon sausages and naturally smoked bacon hot dogs . Flavors include Hickory & Applewood, Aged Cheddar Maple Brown Sugar, Chicken & Bacon, and more. Using whole muscle pork from Heritage Hogs, their products deliver exceptional texture and flavor. Big Fork Brands also offers sauces, jerky, and meat sticks. If you’re looking to spice up your menu or retail shelves, be sure to explore Big Fork Brands. Your customers will love them.

How to Save 75% on Your Next Awning Project

Chesterfield Awning Company, a locally based leader in the awning industry for more than 65 years, reports that many municipalities, villages, and cities are now offering rebate programs and grant funds to help business owners improve or rehabilitate their building facades.

In many cases, these programs cover up to 75% of the cost of a new awning project as part of broader efforts to beautify and revitalize commercial areas. Funding often comes from national initiatives designed to strengthen both small communities and larger cities.

Business owners are encouraged to check with their local chamber of commerce, village or city hall, alderman, or elected officials to learn what programs may be available in their area. These dollars can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses while enhancing curb appeal and attracting more customers.

For more information and to see if a facade rebate is available for your business, contact your local municipality or call Chesterfield Awning directly. You can find their ad on page 14.

Hilton Opens

9,000th Hotel

Hilton announced it has reached the milestone of 9,000 hotels globally, representing nearly three openings per day since reaching 8,000 hotels just a year ago. Driven by owner interest in Hilton’s brands around the world and strong conversion activity, Hilton continues to grow its portfolio at a robust pace. The opening of Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa marked the crossing of this milestone, introducing the luxury brand to Hilton’s rapidly expanding portfolio in Texas.

Aristocrat Gaming kicked off the annual Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas with a bang when the company unveiled Monopoly Big Board Bucks, the first themed slot title of the recently announced multi-year licensing partnership with Hasbro.

Wildly Virgin: Award-Winning, Artisanal Portuguese Olive Oils

Wildly Virgin is a premium olive oil company specializing in small-batch, single-origin Portuguese oils sourced from independent growers across distinct regions. Each bottle reflects the unique character of its estate and maker, celebrating olive oil as a form of culinary artistry. Their award-winning lineup includes bold, grassy, smooth, and robust flavor profiles

– such as Forte, Verde, Doce, And Joaquim’s Reserve – with high polyphenol content and low acidity. All oils are 100% extra virgin and packaged sustainably in recycled glass bottles, with optional artisanal accessories. The brand has received praise from chefs and customers alike, and recently earned a Gold Medal at the NY World Olive Oil Competition.

Templeton Whiskey recently launched their Templeton 13 Year Rye, which is a 95% rye and 5% malted barley mash bill, 108 proof, and non-chill filtered. This extremely limited edition was recently unveiled at a Chicago media event and showcases the pinnacle of the brand’s aging program.

Templeton Whiskey is built on a historic legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and bold flavor. Born in the small town of Templeton, Iowa, Templeton Whiskey traces its roots back to the Prohibition era. Today, Templeton Whiskey continues crafting high-quality American whiskey that embodies authenticity and an uncompromising commitment to excellence.

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.

Nuggets

Chrysanthemums (often called mums) typically bloom in the fall, making them a popular choice for autumn gardens. Cut chrysanthemums can last up to two weeks in a vase, making them a long-lasting choice for floral arrangements. They also have medicinal properties and are used in teas and traditional remedies.

Morton, Illinois is known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World because its Libby’s plant processes a vast amount of the world’s canned pumpkin, with the surrounding region producing 95% of the canned pumpkin in the U.S. Pumpkin pie is a beloved dessert and a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations.

National Stuffing Day is celebrated Nov. 21st - pick up a box of Stove Top Stuffing. It is a quick cooking (“instant”) stuffing. Unlike traditional stuffing, Stove Top can be prepared on the stove, in a pot, and can also be prepared in a microwave oven. For recipe ideas - kraftheinz.com.

Thanksgiving Day has been an annual holiday in the United States since 1863. This year it is celebrated Nov. 27, 2025.

Thanksgiving is the expression of gratitude, especially to God.

“Give thanks not just on Thanksgiving Day, but every day of your life.” - Catherine Pulsifier

The Butterball Turkey TalkLine is available to support new and seasoned holiday hosts.

Celebrating its 44th year, these turkey experts are standing by and ready to answer holiday hosting questions via phone, text, email, chat and social channels through December 24th.

To learn more about Butterball and how to reach the Turkey Talk-Line, visit Butterball.com.

The hospitality industry has reached a new milestone, with Louisiana – home to the nation’s first full-service, 100% gluten-free hotel. The Hotel Monroe is Monroe’s newest landmark, housed

inside the historic 1881 Sugar Brothers Grocery building and the former Southern Hardware store.

The Jel Sert Company, creators of iconic American staples like Otter Pops and Royal Desserts unveiled a new line of sugarfree pudding & pie filling mixes in collaboration with Sprinkles, dessert bakery pioneer behind the global cupcake craze and world’s first Cupcake ATM. The Toy Insider experts reveal the hottest toys & games of 2025, and launch the biggest-ever holiday gift guide. This milestone guide with nearly 400 vetted products includes 175+ toys and games under $25, with coveted hot 20, STEM 10 & 12 under $20 picks averaging under $60. The U.S. Postal Service kicked off the 2025 season of USPS Operation Santa, inviting children and families across the country to begin writing and sending letters to Santa Claus. The program, now in its 113th year, connects letter writers with individuals and organizations who help fulfill their holiday wishes.

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic - Nov 14-15, 2025, features live entertainment, culinary seminars, a fireworks show and unlimited food and drink tastings. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes from the resort’s award-winning chefs paired with fine wines, beers and spirits from around the world. Visit Williamsburg is “sew” excited to bring the nation together one stitch at a time with The Great American Birthday Quilt Project. To commemorate America250 and VA250, the organization has issued a call for people nationwide to use their creativity to craft panels that depict their personal stories celebrating American pride, history and hope. Quilt blocks can be submitted to ‘Visit Williamsburg’ now through the end of 2025.

Starving for more online sales?

Food Photo Studio Page 40

ADVERTISING

Food Industry News

630-283-0038

847-699-3300

View Outdoor 312-241-1303

AIR CONDITIONING-SYSTEMS CLEANING

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

AIR FILTERS-SALES & SERVICE

Olympia Maintenance

APPETIZERS

Candelite Frozen Pizza Page 23

ARCHITECTS

708-344-0344

224-567-0994

Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE(AI) CONSULTANTS

IT Impact Inc

ASIAN FOOD PRODUCTS

Kikkoman Sales USA

ASSOCIATIONS

312-809-4456

630-954-1244

GARC Page 27 847-824-6941

Illinois Restaurant Association Page 03 312-787-4000

ASSOCIATIONS & TRADES

Illinois Pork Prodcuers Association Page 25 217-529-3100

ATTORNEYS

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

AUCTIONS

Rick Levin & Associates Page 16 312-440-2000

AUCTIONS & LIQUIDATIONS

K & L Liquidation Page 10 847-854-9913

AWNINGSSALES & SERVICE

Thatcher Oaks Awnings Page 04 630-833-5700

AWNINGS & CANOPIES

Chesterfield Awnings Page 14 708-596-4434

BAGS-CUSTOM PRINTED

Bulldog Packaging

630-458-1152

Chicago Pastry Company

Page 16

Eli’s Cheesecakes Page 47

630-529-6391

773-736-7417

Ideal Bakery Page 15 773-631-6897

Il Mulino di Valenzano Bakery Page 07 847-671-5216

Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 32 708-547-5969

Today’s Temptations Page 23 773-385-5355

JR Dessert Bakery 773-465-6733

BAKERY-PRODUCTS

Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 29

773-801-1600

Instantwhip Chicago Page 17 773-235-5588

BAKLAVA

Libanais Sweets

BANKINGCOMMERCIAL

847-329-5060

Fifth Third Commercial Bank 847-757-1885

BANNERS & POSTERS

Accurate Printing

BAR STOOLS

708-824-0058

Chicago Booth Page 14 773-378-8400

Richardson Seating FSE Division Page 18 312-829-4040

Seating Hub 773-379-7777

Trendler Inc 773-255-4407

Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

BAR SUPPLIES

Ramar Supply Co Page 44 708-233-0808

Schultz Supply 708-652-2020

BATCH FREEZERS

Kool Technologies Page 02 630-483-2256

BBQ SAUCE

Ken’s Foods Page 48 800-633-5800

Red Gold 765-557-5500

BBQ SAUCE- RUBS & SEASONINGS

Pork Mafia Inc Page 29 312-543-5368

BEEF

New S B L Inc Page 20

773-376-8280

BEER GAS MacCARB Page 17 877-427-2499

Sculpture Hospitality Page 43

BEVERAGE PROGRAMS Big Shoulders Coffee Page 08

BEVERAGES Boba Direct Page 45

BOBA DRINK SUPPLIES

Boba Direct Page 45

773-454-1300

866-4US-BOBA

866-4US-BOBA BOOTHS

Chicago Booth Page 14

773-378-8400

CAKES & DESSERTS

Chicago Sweet Connection Page 19 773-283-4430

Eli’s Cheesecake Page 47 773-736-7417

CALAMARI

Fisherman’s Pride Page 09 800-543-2110

CANNOLI & CANNOLI PRODUCTS

Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 32 708-547-5969

CARPET CLEANING

Sexton Group Floor Care Page 31 847-827-1188

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 29 773-801-1600

CHAIR/BARSTOOL REPAIRS

Joe’s Furniture Upholstery Page 10 773-965-4828

CHAIRS

Dearborn Sourcing LLC Page 12 312-243-6214

Richardson Seating FSE Division Page 18 312-829-4040

Trendler Inc 773-255-4407

CHAIRS-COMMERCIAL

Chicago Booth Page 14 773-378-8400

Seating Hub 773-379-7777

Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

CHAIRS-REPAIR & RESTORATION

Joe’s Furniture Upholstery Page 10 773-965-4828

CHEESECAKES

Eli’s Cheesecakes Page 47 773-736-7417

CHEESES

WisconCaputo Cheese Page 21 708-450-0074

CHICKEN-PROGRAMS

FSI/Foodservice Solutions 847-719-6088

CHILI

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

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Food Industry News

CLEANING PRODUCTS

847-699-3300

C-Soap a div of CSI Coker Service Page 10 888-908-5600

SuperClean 847-361-0289

CLEANING SERVICES

Cruz’ s Cleaning Services Page 28 630-379-3732

CO2

MacCARB Page 17 877-427-2499

COFFEE ROASTERS

Big Shoulders Coffee Page 08 312-810-3046

Tec Foods Inc Page 05 773-638-5310

Tugboat Coffee 630-390-6613

COFFEE SHOP PRODUCTS

Boba Direct Page 45 866-4US-BOBA COLD STORAGE

McCook Cold Storage Page 10 708-387-2585

COMPRESSED GAS

MacCARB Page 17 877-427-2499

CONDIMENTS

Red Gold 765-557-5500

CONSULTANTSBBQ

Pork Mafia Inc Page 29 312-543-5368

CONTRACT LABOR PROVIDERS

Midway Staffing Page 26 708-397-8800

CONTRACT MANUFACTURING

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

COOKING EQUIPMENT

Ramar Supply Co Page 44 708-233-0808

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

COOKING EQUIPMENT-REPAIR

Mr Appliance of West Loop Page 06 312-626-5467

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

CO-PACKERS

Chicago Pastry Company Page 16 630-529-6391

CORNED BEEF

Papa Charlie’s Page 41 773-522-7900

CORNED BEEF-FRESH

Vienna Beef

CORPORATE GIFTS

Vienna Beef

COST REDUCTION EXPERT

CREPE BATTER

Tec Foods Inc Page 05 773-638-5310

DAIRY-DISTRIBUTOR

Instantwhip Chicago Page 17 773-235-5588

DAIRY-PRODUCTS

V Marchese Produce Page 03 414-289-0995

DATABASE SOFTWARE CONSULTING

IT Impact Inc 312-809-5456

DESSERT SUPPLIES

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

DESSERTS

Chicago Sweet Connection Page 19 773-283-4430

Eli’s Cheesecakes Page 47 773-736-7417

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

DESSERTS-WHOLESALE

Lezza Spumoni & Desserts Page 32 708-547-5969

DIRECT MAIL PROGRAMS

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

DISHWASHING & CHEMICALS

C-Soap a div of CSI Coker Service Page 10 888-908-5600

DISINFECTING SERVICES

Sexton Group Floor Care Page 31 847-827-1188

DISPOSABLE PACKAGING

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

DISPOSABLE TOWELSPREMIUM

Naptec Paper 846-200-3344

DRAM SHOP INSURANCE

Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 15

847-866-7400

Serpe Insurance Page 42 773-871-0809

DRAPERIES-CLEANING

Sexton Complete Care Page 31 847-827-1188

DUCT CLEANING

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 42 800-325-8476

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

EGGS

Meadowbrook Egg & Dairy Company 773-523-8861

ELECTRONIC ORDERING SYSTEMS

Infi USA 888-857-9831

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOKS

Employco USA

ENERGY BROKER

630-920-0000

Century Energy Solutions Page 40 630-817-3164

ESPRESSO-COFFEE

Big Shoulders Coffee Page 08 312-810-3046

ETHNIC FOODS

Kikkoman Sales USA 630-954-1244

FAUCETSCOMMERCIAL

The Faucet Professionals 847-282-0075

FILTERS-EXHAUST SYSTEMS

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

FIRE SUPRESSION SYSTEMS

Fox Valley Fire & Safety Page 18

847-695-5990

Fredriksen Fire Equipment Co Page 42 630-595-9500

FIRE-EXTINGUISHERS

Fox Valley Fire & Safety Page 18 847-695-5990

Fredriksen Fire Equipment Co Page 42 630-595-9500

FLOOR INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE

Sexton Complete Floor Care Page 31 847-827-1188

FOOD DISTRIBUTOR

V Marchese Produce Page 03 414-289-0995

FOOD DISTRIBUTORS

Chef’s Kitchen/Dearborn Page 29 773-801-1600

Devanco Foods Page 30 847-228-7070

Performance Foodservice Page 13 630-896-1991

Tec Foods Inc Page 05 773-638-5310

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

FOOD PRODUCTS

Devanco Foods Page 30

847-228-7070

WisconCaputo Cheese Page 21 708-450-0074

Neil Jones Food Company

773-278-7800

773-278-7800

Sculpture Hospitality Page 43 773-454-1300

B & B Food Services 815-834-2621

Chef’s Quality Meats 708-333-0880

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

FOOD INVENTORY CONTROL

Sculpture Hospitality Page 43 773-454-1300

FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Food Photo Studio Page 40 630-283-0038

FOOD PLANT STAFFING & LABOR

Midway Staffing Page 26 708-397-8800

800-543-4356

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

Xacho LLC 331-777-0629

FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT

Prairie View Industries Food Srvc. Inc Page 30 800-544-7267

Thunderbird Food Machinery Page 45 866-451-1668

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650

FOODSERVICE

LAYOUT & DESIGN

HEALTH INSURANCE

Employco USA

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONER SERVICE & REP

630-920-0000

Mechanical 24 Page 24 847-987-9738

HELIUM MacCARB Page 17 877-427-2499

HISPANIC FOOD DISTRIBUTION

B & B Food Services

HOOD CLEANING

Rampro Facilities Services

HOOD EXHAUST & FAN CLEANING

815-834-2621

224-639-6378

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 42 800-325-8476

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

HOT DOGS

Crawford Sausage 773-277-3095

Vienna Beef 773-278-7800

ICE CREAM

Instantwhip Chicago Page 17 773-235-5588

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

ICE CREAM EQUIPMENT REPAIR & SUPPLY

Kool Technologies Page 02 630-483-2256

ICE CREAM-EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY

Kool Technologies Page 02 630-483-2256

ICE CREAM-YOGURT

Instantwhip Chicago Page 17 773-235-5588

ICE MACHINE REPAIR & SANITIZING

Major Appliance Service 708-447-4100

ICE MACHINES

Redco Foodservice Equipment

ICE MACHINES-SALES-RENTAL OR LEASING

Empire Cooler Service

800-722-5460

312-733-3900

Ice Solutions 24 847-987-9738

INSURANCE

Cacciatore Insurance Page 13 312-264-6055

Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 15 847-866-7400

Serpe Insurance Page 42 773-871-0809

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 13 312-264-6055

Serpe Insurance Page 42 773-871-0809

INSURANCE UNDERWRITTING

Society Insurance 888-576-2438

INSURANCE-INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL

Cacciatore Insurance Page 13 312-264-6055

Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 15 847-866-7400

INTERIOR DESIGN

Ullo Designs 312-296-8556

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100

INTERNET ADVERTISING

Food Industry News 847-699-3300

ITALIAN BEEF

Devanco Foods Page 30 847-228-7070

Papa Charlie’s Page 41 773-522-7900

Serrelli’s Foods Page 14 877-385-BEEF

ITALIAN FOOD SPECIALTIES

E Formella & Sons Page 41 708-598-0909

ITALIAN SAUSAGE

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

JANITOR-SUPPLIES

Ramar Supply Co Page 44 708-233-0808

JAPANESE-FOOD PRODUCTS

Kikkoman Sales USA

JUICER REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

630-954-1244

Up ‘N Adam Service & Supply Inc Page 17 877-876-2326

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

JUICERS-FRUIT & VEGETABLES

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

KETCHUP

Red Gold

KIOSKSORDERING & POS

KITCHEN-EXHAUST SYSTEMS/CLEANING

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 42 800-325-8476

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

LABELS

A-Flex Label Corp/Printing

LABOR MANAGEMENT SERVICES

630-325-7265

Midway Staffing Page 26 708-397-8800

LAW FIRMS

Tuckey Law Page 24 312-701-2200

LINEN SUPPLY & RENTAL SERVICE

Cosmopolitan Textile 773-254-6100

LIQUOR INVENTORY CONTROL

Sculpture Hospitality Page 43 773-454-1300

LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE

Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 15 847-866-7400

Serpe Insurance Page 42 773-871-0809

MAYONNAISE

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 773-265-6500

MEAT PROCESSING EQUIP SALES & SERVICE

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

MEATBALLS

Rosina Real Italian Style Page 26 888-767-4621

MEATS -WHOLE PIGS-GOATS-LAMB

Park Packing Company Page 44 773-254-0100

MEAT-WHOLESALE

Devanco Foods Page 30 847-228-7070

Fox De Luxe Foods Page 29 847-520-8300

New S B L Inc Page 20 773-376-8280

Park Packing Company Page 44 773-254-0100

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

Chef’s Quality Meats 708-333-0880

International Meat Company 773-622-1400

MEDITERRANEAN FOODS

Olympia Food Industries 847-349-9358

MENUS-CUSTOM PRINTED

Accurate Printing 708-824-0058

MEXICAN FOOD PRODUCTS

B & B Food Services

815-834-2621

Xacho LLC 331-777-0629

MILK

Instantwhip Chicago Page 17 773-235-5588

NAPKINSCUSTOM PRINTED DISPOSABLE

Naptec Paper

NAPKINS & TABLES CUSTOM PRINTED

Naptec Paper

NEIGHBORHOOD MARKETING

846-200-3344

846-200-3344

LED Billboard Trucks 312-924-7979

NITROGEN

MacCARB Page 17 877-427-2499

NUTSBULK

Oleic Solutions Page 06 331-214-0436

OIL- SUNFLOWER

Oleic Solutions Page 06 331-214-0436

OIL-FRYING

RTI Restaurant Technologies Inc Page 18 312-504-4565

OILS & FATS-COOKING

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 773-265-6500

RTI Restaurant Technologies Inc Page 18 312-504-4565

OILS & SHORTENING

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 773-265-6500

OILS & VINEGAR

Pastorelli Foods 800-SOS-AUCY

OILS- FILTERING & RECYCLING

RTI Restaurant Technologies Inc Page 18 312-504-4565

OILS-COOKING/BULK

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 773-265-6500

OLIVE OILS

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 773-265-6500

ORDERING TERMINALS

Infi USA

ORGANIC FOODS

765-557-5500

Infi USA 888-857-9831

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT

A D E Foodservice Equipment

630-628-0811

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

KITCHEN FLOORING

Sexton Complete Floor Care Page 31 847-827-1188

PAPER-PRODUCTS

Ramar Supply Co Page 44

708-233-0808

Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688

PARTY-FAVORS

PASTA-FRESH AND FROZEN

Pastafresh Home Made Pasta 773-745-5888

PASTA-PRODUCTS

Rosina

Chicago Sweet Connection Page 19 773-283-4430

PATIO ENCLOSURES Thatcher Oaks Awnings Page 04 630-833-5700

PATIO HEATERS TNG Industries Page 46 708-449-1100

888-857-9831

Pastorelli Foods

OVENS-PIZZA

800-SOS-AUCY

Northern American Pizza & Culinary 630-395-9958

PAINTING CONTRACTORS

Sexton Complete Care Page 31 847-827-1188

PANCAKE-BATTER & MIX

Tec Foods Inc Page 05 773-638-5310

PROPERTYTAXREAL ESTATE LAW

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE

Heil & Heil Insurance Agency Page 15 847-866-7400

Society Insurance 888-576-2438

PUBLISHING

Food Industry News

REAL ESTATE LAW

847-699-3300

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

REALTORS

Christna Morris Realtor 773-727-1069

REFRIGERATION

Redco Foodservice Equipment

800-722-5460

Vitlife 269-235-4585

REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT REPAIR

CSI Page 27 888-908-5600

Kool Technologies Page 02 630-483-2256

Mechanical 24 Page 24 847-987-9738

REFRIGERATION SERVICE

Ice Solutions 24 847-987-9738

REFRIGERATION-EQUIP/COMMERCIAL

Custom Cooler & Freezer Page 06 630-879-3131

RESTAURANT CLEANING SERVICE

Cruz’s Cleaning Service Page 28 630-379-3732

RESTAURANT CONSULTANTS

Stanovich Hospitality 708-359-1911

RESTAURANT DESIGN

Ullo Designs 312-296-8556

RESTAURANT EQUIP MANUFACTURERS

EmberGlo Page 27 866-705-0515

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT

Optimal Automatics Page 24 847-439-9110

Prairie View Industriees Food Srvc. Inc. Page 30 800-554-7267

Wood Food Systems Page 03 847-949-9663

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

FSI/Foodservice Solutions 847-719-6088

Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES

Custom Coo ler & Freezer Page 06 630-879-3131

Ramar Supply Co Page 44 708-233-0808

Alfa Restaurant Supply 773-588-6688

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

Schultz Supply 708-652-2020

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT PARTS

CSI Page 27 888-908-5600

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR

CSI Page 27 888-908-5600

RM Services Page 12 331-300-7955

Up ‘N Adam Service & Supplu Inc Page 17 877-876-2326

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR SERVICE

Mr Appliance of West Loop Page 06 312-626-5467

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

Major Appliance Service 708-447-4100

RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT-NEW & USED

K & L Liquidation Page 10 847-854-9913

March Quality Used & New Equip Page 16 800-210-5895

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

RESTAURANT FURNITURE

Richardson Seating FSE Division Page 18 312-829-4040

RESTAURANT INSURANCE

Society Insurance

RESTAURANT REAL ESTATE SALES

888-576-2438

John Moauro Home Finders USA 708-921-4939

Nick Dibrizzi/Coldwell Banker 708-562-9328

Ted Aretos/ Eatz & Associates 815-761-8334

RESTAURANT-DESIGNERS

Losurdo Inc 630-833-4650

Sarfatty Associates 847-920-1100

RE-UPHOLSTERY

Chicago Booth Page 14 773-378-8400

Joe’s Furniture Upholstery Page 10 773-965-4828

ROOF TOP GREASE CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS

Enviromatic Corp of America Page 42 800-325-8476

ROOFS-SALES-REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

Care Sheet Metal & Roofing Page 22

SALAD-DRESSINGS

Ken’s Foods Page 48 800-633-5800

SALAD-DRESSINGS & OILS

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 773-265-6500

Tec Foods Inc Page 05 773-638-5310

SANITATION CERTIFICATION

Illinois Restaurant Association Page 03 312-787-4000

SANITATION CLASSES

Badger Food Service Consulting 262-902-2947

SAUSAGE

Anichini Brothers 312-644-8004

Crawford Sausage 773-277-3095

Vienna Beef 773-278-7800

SCALES

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

SCALES-SALES & REPAIR

Accurate Scale Company Page 12 773-847-1820

SEAFOOD

Fisherman’s Pride Page 09 800-543-2110

SEASONING BLENDS

Rollicking Buckaroo Pepper Jam 415-737-5265

SEATING

Dearborn Sourcing LLC Page 12 312-243-6214

Seating Hub 773-379-7777

Trendler Inc 773-255-4407

Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

SELF-SERVICE ORDERING KIOSKS

Infi USA 888-857-9831

SERV SAFE FOOD SAFETY CERTIFICATION

Badger Food Service Consulting 262-902-2947

SEWER(MAINT)-RODDING & JETTING

Tierra Environmental Page 40 888-551-1998

SHAKE MIX

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

SHORTENING

Columbus Vegetable Oils Page 11 773-265-6500

SLICERSAUTOMATED

Berkel Midwest

800-921-9151

CES Nationwide 773-533-3333

SLICERS-SALES & SERVICE

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

Chicago Social Media Marketing Group 847-387-9873

SOFT DRINKS

PepsiCo Foodservice

SOFT SERVE-ICE CREAM/EQUIP & SUPPLIES

773-893-2319

Kool Technologies Page 02 630-483-2256

SOFT SERVICE MIX

Fox Valley Farms 630-231-3005

SOFTWARE PROGRAMSCUSTOM

IT Impact Inc

SOUP BASES

312-809-5456

Tec Foods Inc Page 05 773-638-5310

SOUPS

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

Vienna Beef 773-278-7800

SPICES

Tec Foods Inc Page 05

SPICES & SEASONING BLENDS

773-638-5310

Char Crust Page 10 773-528-0600

SPIRITS

R Jelinek Midwest Page 46 708-691-3895

STAFFING AGENCIES

Midway Staffing Page 26 708-397-8800

STAINLESS STEEL EQUIPMENT

Prairie View Industries Food Srvc. Inc Page 30 800-554-7267

STEAM CLEANING

Olympia Maintenance 708-344-0344

SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT

Berkel Midwest

TAMALES

Supreme Frozen Products

TAX APPEALS (PROPERTY)

773-622-3777

Reveliotis Law PC Page 06 312-230-0160

TAX PAYMENTS

Cook County Treasurers Office 312-443-5100

TEST KITCHEN SERVICES

B & B Food Services 815-834-2621

THEATERS AND VENUES

RUBS

708-387-9784

Char Crust Page 10 773-528-0600

800-921-9151

CES Nationwide 773-533-3333

SUPERMARKET EQUIPMENT REPAIR

Up ‘N Adam Service & Supply Inc Page 17 877-876-2326

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

SUPERMARKET- EQUIPMENT/ NEW & USED

Berkel Midwest 800-921-9151

TABLES-ALL TYPES

Chicago Booth Page 14

773-378-8400

Richardson Seating FSE Division Page 18 312-829-4040

Waco Manufacturing 312-733-0054

Free for Food Business Professionals, Chefs, Owners, and Buyers. No RSVP Needed.

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Free Food Tastings and Raffle Prizes.

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For over 20 years our focus has been on helping restaurants maximize their online presence and turning local dining spots into must-visit, viral sensations. Great marketing doesn’t cost – it pays. Our services are affordable and effective.

Let’s Grow Your Business Together. Call Todor: 847-387-9873

tkrecu@gmail.com

Chicago Social Media Marketing Group LLC

DECEMBER 8 • Moretti’s Chicago: 6727 N. Olmsted, Chicago • 5 - 9 p.m

DECEMBER 8 • Moretti’s Chicago: 6727 N. Olmsted, Chicago • 5 - 9 p.m.

Carin Stutz is a public company board director and a veteran C-level operating executive with deep experience in the hospitality and consumer sector. Stutz was previously the President and CEO or COO of several well-respected restaurant companies including Native Foods, Red Robin, McAlister’s Deli, Cosi, Brinker, and Applebee’s.

She serves on the board of directors for Kura Sushi, Hawaiian Bros, as well as chair of the board of trustees for Western Illinois University. She is a member of the Fast Casual Industry Council, the treasurer for the Illinois Restaurant Association and a founding board member and treasurer of the GLEAM Network, a mentoring platform for the foodservice industry, and the LEAD committee. She is a member of the Lunchbox Food Tech council and the Ovation advisory board. She is a Past Chair of the Women’s Foodservice Forum; Top 25 Executives in Fast Casual; received the distinguished alumni award from WIU and was inducted into the inaugural class of the Fast Casual Hall of Fame in 2022. Contact Todor Krecu for a FREE consultation and discover how we can help.

Promotions at March Equipment

March Equipment, part of CES Family of Companies (CES), a leading supplier of equipment, supplies and services is proud to announce key leadership changes designed to strengthen operations, enhance vendor partnerships, and accelerate growth across the organization. They are excited to announce that Anthony DeBartolo has been promoted to General Manager of March Equipment. Anthony brings extensive sales experience, a proven track record of growth, and a passion for mentoring future leaders. In his new role, he will oversee daily operations and drive sales growth while continuing to guide and mentor newer sales representatives across the CES Family of Companies.

Steve Lewis, who has been an integral part of March Equipment’s success for decades, will transition out of his role as General Manager while taking on a more focused and flexible position. He will continue to lead purchasing of used equipment, allowing him to stay engaged with March while enjoying a more relaxed role. Steve’s expertise and dedication have been foundational

to March’s success, and they are grateful for his continued involvement in this capacity.

In addition, Marc Victor has been promoted to Director of Equipment Purchasing for the CES Family of Companies. Marc will now oversee equipment vendor relationships, negotiate discount programs, and support large project management across CES. Since joining the company earlier this year, Marc has already proven to be a valuable asset, leveraging his deep knowledge of vendor partnerships to deliver buying advantages and strategic growth opportunities across the entire CES family.

“These leadership changes position March Equipment and CES for long-term growth,” said Tyler Jeffrey, CEO of CES. “By aligning our leadership strengths across sales, purchasing, and vendor management, they are ensuring that every part of the company benefits–from our customers and vendor partners to our employees and the communities they serve.”

– You can find the March Equipment ad on page 16.

Restaurants Need to Promote Now More than Ever

There was a time when restaurant owners joked, “I know I’m getting ripped off by my employees, but as long as they leave me enough, it’s fine.” Nobody would dare say that today. Margins are tighter than ever, and guests are dining out less frequently – often choosing delivery, carry-out, or pickup instead. In this environment, filling seats takes more than great food; it takes smart, consistent marketing. The most cost-effective tools available to operators are social media and local cable TV. Social media in particular is the low-hanging fruit. It’s fast, free, and flexible, and it keeps

your restaurant top of mind. Post photos of daily specials and desserts, celebrate your staff, highlight loyal customers, and remind guests about birthday clubs, special promotions, or anniversary packages.

By building this steady stream of visibility, you remind people why they love your restaurant and give them reasons to come back more often. In today’s competitive climate, ongoing promotion isn’t optional – it’s survival. The restaurants that keep talking to their customers will be the ones that keep their doors open.

C&S Wholesale Grocers Completes Acquisition of SpartanNash

C&S Wholesale Grocers, LLC announced the completion of its acquisition of SpartanNash Company (“SpartanNash”).

The combined company employs more than 30,000 team members and operates almost

60 complementary distribution centers covering the U.S. and serves close to 10,000 independent retail locations, as well as military commissaries and exchanges, with more than 200 corporate-run grocery stores.

Restaurant Technologies is a leading provider of automated kitchen solutions, best known for its Total Oil Management system. The company partners with restaurants, convenience stores, and foodservice operators nationwide to improve employee safety, operational efficiency, and food quality through automated cooking oil handling. Instead of manually transporting, filtering, or disposing of hot cooking oil – a process that is labor-intensive and hazardous – Restaurant Technologies installs a closedloop system that delivers fresh oil directly to fryers and removes used oil automatically. The company’s Chicago Depot in Des Plaines services the region storing fresh cooking oil waiting to be delivered to local customers as well as waste oil waiting to be removed for recycling. – See their ad on page 13

The Secret to Scaling Restaurants, Butcher Shops, and Grocery Stores

In today’s competitive protein market, success often comes down to one key factor: consistency. Having a partner who can deliver fresh poultry, beef, pork, and seafood with a 99% fill rate makes all the difference in controlling costs, saving labor, and building customer trust

One company excelling in this area is Wheeling, Illinoisbased Fox Deluxe Foods. For more than 27 years, Fox Deluxe has been receiving, distributing, and further processing proteins while helping restaurants, butcher shops, and grocery stores grow from one location into strong, growing enterprises. Known not only as a trusted distributor of top brands, Fox Deluxe also operates a poultry processing plant that hand cuts chicken to the highest standard and is Halal certified.

Fox Deluxe has built a loyal following thanks to their high-touch customer service, knowledgeable staff, and professional drivers. Their determination to see customers succeed sets them apart from vendors who only move product. As a family-owned business, they take pride in going the extra mile to deliver quality, reliability, and support.

For protein buyers, choosing the right partner directly impacts profitability, labor efficiency, and guest satisfaction. Fox Deluxe Foods continues to prove that consistency, service, and customer success are the true ingredients for long-term growth.

Your Food Business Insurance Specialist Since 1975

Tell Employees to Be Nice

In today’s restaurant climate, where customers are spending less and often choosing the comfort of home over dining out, the question isn’t just what’s on the menu. It’s how do we make them want to come in at all? The answer lies in something that costs absolutely nothing: warm, genuine hospitality.

Unfortunately, too many employees in our industry today are disengaged. Guests are met with blank stares instead of smiles, no acknowledgment when they walk in, and awkward exchanges at the register. For many customers, it feels less like dining out and more like dealing with “The Walking Dead.” That indifference pushes them away and in times like these, we can’t afford to lose a single guest.

Owners and managers: this is where leadership matters. You set the tone. You cannot expect employees to be gracious hosts if you don’t model it, teach it, and hold them accountable for it. Make hospitality part of the culture. Reward employees who extend warmth and care. Correct those who don’t. If someone clearly isn’t cut out for a peoplecentered industry, don’t keep them on staff hoping they’ll change, because they won’t.

The restaurants that will thrive in the years ahead won’t just be the ones with the best food or the lowest prices. They’ll be the ones where customers feel welcomed, appreciated, and treated with dignity. Hospitality is the edge that no competitor can take from you, and it’s the one thing your guests will remember long after the meal. So lead by example. Insist on grace. Teach kindness. Because at the end of the day, our industry doesn’t rise or fall on food alone, it rises and falls on hospitality.

Texas grocery chain H-E-B has tapped COO Roxanne Orsak to be its next president, effective in January. Orsak will replace Craig Boyan, who is retiring at the end of 2026 after serving as president of H-E-B since 2010. Orsak, who will be H-E-B’s first woman president, joined the retailer in 1988 as a store management trainee.

– Source: Grocery Dive

Dirty Soda Trend Helps Beverage Sales

The “dirty soda” trend, started by Swig in Utah in 2010, has revitalized the beverage industry by inspiring companies such as PepsiCo and McDonald’s to create new products. Dirty soda, which combines soda with flavored syrups and cream, has become widely popular, appearing in grocery stores and quickservice chains. Swig has expanded to more than 140 units, and Pepsi is set to launch new ready-to-drink dirty sodas. The trend has helped reverse declining soda consumption in the US, attracting younger consumers and increasing sales for beverage companies. – Source: CNBC

Food Network will deliver a slate of fresh holiday programming launching in November debuting a new holiday themed spin-off of the network’s toprated competition series – Tournament of Champions: All-Star Christmas and daring new dessert showdown with a twist, Sweet Empire. The lineup includes a new season of Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking and returning fanfavorites Beat Bobby Flay: Holiday Throwdown and Holiday Baking Championship. The holiday cheer continues with Gingerbread Land: The Biggest Little Holiday Competition, special World’s Sweetest Candy Shops, and seasonal episodes of The Kitchen.

Trending Recipe Ideas with Sweet Baby Rays Gourmet Sauces

SWEET TERIYAKI WINGS

Ingredients

• 6 Chicken wings

• 2 fl oz Sweet Teriyaki Wing Sauce & Glaze (SJ2349HA)

• 1 oz Wasabi peas, crushed

• 1 oz Sesame seeds, toasted

• 1 oz Roasted peanuts, crushed

Directions

1. Fry chicken wings to 165°F internal temperature for 15 seconds, drain and place in mixing bowl.

2. Toss with Sweet Teriyaki Wing Sauce & Glaze (SJ2349HA).

3. Remove to serving plate and serve with toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts and crushed wasabi peas.

HONEY HOT HAWAIIAN PIZZA

Ingredients

• 8 oz Pizza dough

• 3 fl oz Honey Hot Wing Sauce & Glaze (SJ2993HA)

• 2 oz Provolone cheese

• 1/4 cup Mozzarella, shredded

• 1/2 cup Honey ham

• 1/4 cup Applewood bacon, cooked, diced

• 1/4 cup Pineapple, diced

• 1/4 cup Roasted red pepper strips

• 1 Jalapeño, thinly sliced rings

Directions

1. Roll out dough. Brush with Honey Hot Wing Sauce & Drizzle (SJ2993HA).

2. Top with the cheeses, ham, bacon, pineapple and roasted red pepper.

3. Bake at 400 F° until crisp and bubbly.

4. Remove, cut and garnish with jalapeño rings and a drizzle of Honey Hot Wing Sauce & Drizzle (SJ2993HA).

– For more information, see the Ken’s Foods ad on page 48.

Performance Foodservice –Chicago Announces Promotion of Chris Holden to Manager, Brands & Sales Support

Performance Foodservice–Chicago is pleased to announce the promotion of Chris Holden from Center of the Plate Specialist to Manager, Brands & Sales Support.

With over 25 years of culinary expertise and nine years in sales leadership, Chris has been a driving force behind strategic product development and sales enablement since joining the company in 2020. His contributions include the successful development of branded protein lines, the launch of innovative new products, and the design of impactful sales training programs. Leveraging his background as an Executive Chef, Chris has also played a key role in crafting recipe and menu concepts that resonate with customers.

In his new role, Chris will promote the company’s full line of exclusive brands and lead the Performance FoodserviceChicago Resource Team, which includes three category sales specialists, a Chemical/Beverage Manager, and the division’s Corporate Chef.

Performance Food Group is an industry leader and one of the largest food and foodservice distribution companies in North America with more than 150 locations. Founded and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, PFG, their family of companies, market and deliver quality food and related products to 300,000+ locations including independent and chain restaurants; businesses, schools and healthcare facilities; vending and office coffee service distributors; and big box retailers, theaters, and convenience stores.

Performance Foodservice–Chicago operates out of Montgomery, Ill., and services independent restaurant operators in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. – See the Performance Foodservice ad on page 13.

HEATERS

“ I believe that if you put in the work, the results will come. It’s about commitment, day in and day out.”

– Gordon Ramsay

With VALERIE MILLER TRAVEL

Gaylord Hotels’ Christmas Attraction – Ice! Returns to Six Resorts Nationwide for 2025

The beloved Christmas tradition, Ice!, returns to six destination resorts across the country along with an extraordinary lineup of festive activities including Broadway-style Cirque shows, themed character dining as well as a variety of family-friendly holiday experiences. Visited by tens of millions over the years, Ice! is a larger-than-life frozen showcase featuring more than 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, meticulously crafted into vivid, floor-toceiling scenes from treasured Christmas classics. This walk-through spectacle is a dazzling display of artistry and imagination, transporting visitors of all ages into the season’s most memorable stories. Starting this November, the holiday lineup featuring Ice! will be offered to overnight and day guests at Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tenn.; Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Fla.; Gaylord National Resort on the Potomac in National Harbor, MD.; Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora, Colo.; Gaylord Texan Resort on Lake Grapevine, Texas; and JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa in San Antonio, Texas. Tickets to all locations are on sale, including a limited time offer, exclusively at ice.marriott.com.

Experience the magic of Ice! – a Gaylord Hotels’ holiday tradition.

Founded in 2001, Ice! creates a vibrant, icy walk-through winter wonderland filled with more than 10 immersive scenes, thrilling two-story ice slides, and awe-inspiring passageways. Guests of all ages can step into adored Christmas classics including Frosty the Snowman, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Elf, The Polar Express, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, depending on the location. Kept at a frosty 9-degrees Fahrenheit, the experience is made cozy with signature blue parkas and offers countless photo-worthy moments the entire family can enjoy.

Each Ice! attraction is brought to life by 40 master artisans from Harbin, China, home of the world-famous Harbin Ice Festival, who spend over a month sculpting these frozen masterpieces using more than 6,000 blocks of ice and a 300-page design book. Totaling over 20,000 square feet at each destination, the ice exhibits are enhanced with vivid colors, LED lighting, and intricate detail that spotlight the carvers’ generational craftsmanship. Since its debut in 2001, Ice! has become a cherished holiday tradition, inviting families nationwide to celebrate the season through artistry, storytelling and unforgettable frozen fun.

Ice! and Christmas Offerings Will Be Presented During the Following Dates:

• Gaylord Opryland

• Gaylord Palms

• Gaylord National

• Gaylord Rockies

• Gaylord Texan

• JW Marriott San Antonio

November 7, 2025 – January 3, 2026

November 14, 2025 – January 7, 2026

November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026

November 24, 2025 – January 2, 2026

November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026

November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with over-the-top experiences including exhilarating ice tubing adventures, interactive scavenger hunts, festive character dining, live stage shows, sprawling pop-up Christmas villages and cherished photo ops with Santa himself. Offerings vary by resort. To explore the full lineup of wintertime festivities and book exclusive holiday packages, visit ice.marriott.com.