tastemakers – In Good Taste

A Conversation with Stouffer’s Corporate Chef Holly Strauch

Maris Callahan — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 17:30:52 +0000

Holly Strauch is proof that when you set your mind to something, you can achieve it. Since the eighth grade, the Chagrin Falls, Ohio native knew she wanted to work for Stouffer’s and not only did she make it happen, but she’s spent her entire career testing recipes, whipping up new ideas and helping the family-founded brand keep up with trends and innovations in the food space. Earlier this year, I was lucky enough to visit the Stouffer’s Open Kitchen at the Nestle headquarters in Solon, Ohio. Stouffer’s wined and dined us for the better part of two days while introducing us to the brand’s hero products, including its world-famous Stouffer’s lasagna recipe, which was recently recreated using only the same ingredients you would make at home: handmade pasta, fresh cheese, house made sauce and the same fresh herbs you’d find in your own kitchen. Even though we ate really, really well while we were visiting, the biggest treat of the weekend was partaking in a lasagna-making class led by Stouffer’s own chef Holly. We split into groups and tackled four different Stouffer’s lasagne recipes: Lasagna Italiano, Lasagna with Meat Sauce, Meat Lovers Lasagna, Five Cheese Lasagna. If you think […]

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A Conversation with Nancy Geden

Maris Callahan — Sun, 10 Apr 2016 23:46:45 +0000

Opening one restaurant is no small feat. Managing the planning and execution of 10 restaurant openings? Let’s just say, I would need a big drink if I were Nancy Geden, the 26 year-old director of operations for Meatheads, a simple concept that focuses on serving high quality burgers and chicken, fresh cut fries and beverages in a stylish and casual atmosphere. Geden began her restaurant industry career midway through college, and has steadily moved up in the company since she graduated Cum Laude from Loyola University Chicago. “When you love your job, it does not feel like work,” Nancy says. Read on to learn more about Nancy’s story, in her own words. What was your first job out of college? Meatheads is my first job out of college. After starting with Meatheads as a cashier while in college, I stayed with the company and have been able to learn and grow into a leadership position. Almost 4 years removed from school and 6 years with the company, working here has been an invaluable experience. It has allowed me to gain high level business knowledge in a short amount of time. How do you start each day? Describe your morning routine. I start […]

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A Conversation with Jodi Fyfe

Maris Callahan — Sun, 06 Mar 2016 04:21:20 +0000

You could say that as the founder of Paramount Events, Jodi Fyfe is somewhat of a local Martha Stewart. In 2011, with a restaurant and hospitality management degree from Kendall College in addition to 20 years of experience under her belt, the Oak Park mom of two finally decided that Chicago’s catering scene was especially ready for a shake-up. Borrowing from the industry experience she gained at the Four Seasons (Newport Beach), ARAMARK and Blue Plate Catering, Jodi finally established Paramount Events as the go-t0 caterer for events like Techweek, Neocon and Chicago Gourmet in less than five years. Like a lot of powerful women who want to make the world a better place, Jodi is also passionate about breast cancer awareness. As a result of losing her cousin to the disease, Jodi founded Tickled Pink, an annual benefit to raise funds for breast cancer prevention programs. Read on to learn more about Jodi’s story, in her own words. An Interview with Jodi What was your first job out of college? I worked at Lettuce Entertain You, where they have a great training program. I had a great experience filled with good people and in a fun work environment. What led you to create Paramount Events? I love events and catering to people. The caterer brings the food, which most […]

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