Chef Jose Andres, the founder of World Central Kitchen, delivered a powerful keynote speech to over 50,000 attendees at the National Restaurant Association convention at McCormick Place in Chicago. He emphasized the role of restaurants as anchors of hope that can bring positive change to communities. World Central Kitchen, known for its disaster relief efforts, has been serving people in need around the world, including those affected by the recent tragic events in Gaza.
Attendees at the convention not only learned about the latest technology and culinary trends but also gained a renewed sense of purpose. Chef Andres reminded everyone that the future of the country and the planet is in their hands and urged them to work towards creating a better world. Diners can also support the philanthropic work of restaurants with a mission by choosing to dine at establishments that give back to the community.
Chef Andres encouraged the audience to take action and be part of the solution in their own communities. Some local chefs and restaurant owners have already stepped up to support causes they are passionate about. For example, the owner of Demera in Uptown organized fundraisers to help those displaced by conflict in Ethiopia. Similarly, Rohini Dey, the owner of Vermilion in River North, created a platform to empower women-owned businesses in the food industry through Let’s Talk Women.
Some attendees were inspired by Chef Andres’ message and pledged to take action themselves. Others expressed gratitude for his words and thanked him for his dedication to making a difference through food. The NRA convention concludes on Tuesday with more opportunities for networking and learning from experts in the industry.
