CAFÉ Update January 26, 2026

On Tuesday, June 23, two Master Classes will be offered at the 2026 CAFÉ Conference in Chicago.

Chocolate Master Class
Led by Chef Josh Johnson of Guittard, this session covers essential chocolate techniques and recipes, including cremeux, whipped ganache, and chocolate mousse. The class emphasizes practical applications for pastry menus and teaching programs, offering hands-on experience with professional chocolate preparation.

• Fee: $25
• Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
• Limited to 20 attendees

Pizza Master Class
Led by a Real California Milk master pizzaiolo, this interactive class explores pizza-making fundamentals, from dough preparation to cheese selection and tasting. Participants will learn about different pizza styles, engage in hands-on exercises, and sample a variety of cheeses to enhance their understanding of flavor profiles and techniques. 

• Fee: $35
• Time: 12:00–4:00 p.m.
• Limited to 20 attendees

Separate Registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity—register now to secure your spot in one of these exclusive classes  

For more information and the most recent conference agenda, click here.

We are looking forward to seeing you all in Chicago in June.

2026 CAFÉ Award Information

The information on the 2026 CAFÉ Awards is now available on our website.

To view all awards go to cafemeetingplace.com/scholarship-awards.

2026 Educator of the Year Award (Secondary & Postsecondary)

2026 Technology Award

2026 Innovation Award

2026 Community Outreach Award

2026 Entrepreneurship Award

2026 Student of the Year Award

If you know a fellow teacher that would be great for an award you can nominate them or it is ok to nominate yourself. Just remember you have to apply to win.

Previous applicants and winners are encourage to apply. 

Also, if you have a culinary/hospitality student that would like a wonderful opportunity, the Idaho Potato Commission will be offering their 4th annual Student of the Year Award. 

Deadline for applications: April 1, 2026

Register by January 31, 2026 and receive a discount!! Click here, for more information and registration links.

The hotel accommodations is the Palmer House Hilton in Chicago. We will be in walking distance (0.7 mi) to the S. Michigan Avenue campus of Kendall College.

The Hotel is located in a perfect area to explore and enjoy Chicago and its riverfront, great restaurants, outdoor art and more!

For hotel registration information, click here. 

CAFÉ Membership Information & Renewals

CAFÉ Mission: “To link the foodservice industry with the foodservice classroom.”

Your membership supports the CAFE mission statement.

Now offering Individual, Institutional and Industry memberships.

For more information, click here.

Already a member? Renewal access available after January 1st. 

Instructions on membership renewals, click here.

Have you checked out CAFÉ Talks Podcast?

Our host, Paul Sorgule has spearheaded this podcast and has done a wonderful job. He has interviewed over 100 of the most influential people in education, culinary classrooms, the foodservice industry, leadership, innovation, culinary history, and management – there is something for everyone to relish and use. 

Have you thought about integrating the CAFÉ Talks Podcast into your student curriculum for an assignment? Have you thought "I really wish I could remember which podcast pertained to a certain subject?"

Paul Sorgule, has created an organized chart that demonstrates where each interview might apply in your classrooms as assignments or a point of reference for faculty. 

Click here to download your copy of the chart.

We could not have produced this podcast series if it wasn't for our sponsors who we thank very much for their continued support of CAFÉ.