All of your chocolatey dreams have come true. The world’s first Nutella cafe is opening in Chicago on May 31. Although other eateries may offer menus focusing on the rich, hazelnut spread, the Nutella Cafe is the first restaurant owned by Ferrero USA, so the entire restaurant experience is designed around the beloved brand. From the creamy color of the walls, to the hazelnut-shaped hanging lights, everything is inspired by Nutella. “It’s designed to make you feel like you’re actually walking into a jar of Nutella,” said Angela Baird, the director of operations at BIG Retail, who gave design consultation to Ferrero USA, told The Chicago Tribune. “Everything screams Nutella.” There are, of course, no shortage of Nutella menu items. Satisfy any craving with a Nutella filled croissant, waffles served with warm apples Nutella drizzle and toasted hazelnuts, or steel-cut oats topped with mixed berries, almond milk and, what else, Nutella.…
James Beard culinary award winners announced
The 2017 James Beard Awards Gala was hosted last night, May 1, by Jesse Tyler Ferguson of ABC’s award-winning comedy Modern Family at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Industry leaders from across the country attended the ceremony and celebration where the theme of the evening was “Powered by Food,” which celebrated the exciting ways technology has sparked and strengthened our connections to food. The James Beard Foundation Awards are the “Oscars” of the restaurant world. The country’s top culinary talent is showcased and awards are given in various categories covering everything from chefs to service, culinary writing to education, and restaurant design to lifetime achievements. Established in 1990, the awards are named for the late James Beard, cookbook author, teacher and champion of American cuisine. The James Beard Foundation continues his spirit through a variety of diverse programs, scholarships, publications and events. JBF is a national not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization based in…