Gothenburg Restaurant Association meets Illinois Restaurant Association!
A delegation of eight esteemed members from the Gothenburg Restaurant Association, including Håkan Thörnström, a Michelin-starred chef, Ulrika Kvarnhult, the chairperson of the association, and other chefs and restaurant managers, were warmly welcomed for a fam trip from March 1st to 6th, 2023 by the Illinois Restaurant Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, educating, and improving the restaurant industry in Illinois, and by Chicago Sister Cities International, an initiative of World Business Chicago, the city's public-private economic development agency, that manages Chicago's 29 international sister city relationships.
The primary objective of the trip was to facilitate a sharing of knowledge and insights regarding food and gastronomy. Throughout the course of the trip, participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to foster learning and connection:
The delegation's itinerary included a visit to Pilsen, a vibrant Mexican neighborhood famous for its colorful murals and authentic cuisine, which was recently featured in a "Taco Chronicles" episode on Netflix. They also explored Fulton Market, a Chicago area renowned for its diverse array of restaurants.
Later in the afternoon, a small get-together was organized at the Nordic Museum, which was attended by all the parties and the Deputy Mayor of Chicago, Mr. Samir Mayekar. It provided an excellent opportunity for the two cities to discuss the impact of the COVID crisis on the restaurant industry and the shortage of staff.
The delegation also visited the Chicago Food Stop on Michigan Avenue, where they learned more about the project and how the space is utilized to promote local products and support minority inclusion.
Through these experiences, participants from Gothenburg were able to gain a deeper understanding of the unique culinary traditions and practices of Chicago, as well as share their own insights and expertise.
The trip proved to be an enriching experience, as it allowed for a meaningful exchange of ideas and culture between two vibrant and dynamic cities within the Délice Network: such exchanges are vital for promoting cross-cultural understanding within the food and gastronomy industry. Learn, share, and connect!