Supper with Sylvia Perez - Chicago's Foodie Podcast

With Halloween around the corner, we’re talking all things sweet! On this episode of Supper with Sylvia, we sit down with Patrick and Alycia Mason, the husband-and-wife duo behind Candycopia. The hit suburban candy shop with locations in Oak Park and Elmhurst, Illinois, is winning over candy lovers with its popular Swedish gummies, dirty sodas, sour challenges, and nostalgic favorites.

From colorful gummies to handmade creations from small-batch candymakers, Candycopia is all about discovering something delicious and unexpected. Patrick and Alycia share the inspiration behind their business, their recent Guinness world record, and how they’re bringing a whole new world of sweets to their community.

Tune in for a fun, flavorful conversation that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Because there’s no better time to talk candy than Halloween!

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

More than 50 years and 130 restaurants later, the Melman family is still at the table - and the next generation is pulling up a chair.

In this special live episode ofSupper with Sylvia, we’re sitting down with the Melman kids to talk about what it was really like growing up in a restaurant family. We get into working alongside a legendary dad, sibling dynamics, the pressures and privileges of carrying on a family legacy, and how this next generation is putting its own spin on the business.

It’s a conversation about family, food, Chicago, and figuring out how to honor what came before, while creating what comes next.

A very special thanks to Darryl Smith and the team at Sushi-san for their hospitality in hosting this live podcast event, for the benefit of Chicago Chefs Cook.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

For Monti Carlo, being “between worlds” was never just a figure of speech. Growing up as a Puerto Rican girl in Houston, she learned to navigate two cultures, and questions about where, and how, she belonged.

In her cookbook, Spanglish, Monti traces that journey through food, family, and the experiences that shaped her. She shares her story of becoming a single mom to finding her way onto the MasterChef stage, building a career in television, and eventually making her way to the James Beard red carpet.

But this conversation goes beyond Monti’s impressive career. It’s about identity, belonging, and the freedom that comes with embracing every part of background. Today, she is proudly Puerto Rican, proudly Spanglish, and unapologetic about both. Her story, and her food, are a celebration of what can happen when the spaces between cultures become a place you can truly call home.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

What does it take to lose almost everything, and build it all back? In this episode of Supper with Sylvia, we sit down with Chicago chef Thai Dang for a deeply personal conversation about the journey that brought him here. After immigrating from Vietnam as a child, and inspired by his mother’s love of food, Thai worked his way through some of the country’s best kitchens and built a reputation as one of Chicago’s most exciting chefs. But as he neared the height of his success, everything changed. Thai found himself dealing with an embezzlement scandal involving a former business partner, and the devastating financial and personal fallout that followed. With his wife, Danielle, by his side, Thai rebuilt. Today, he's the iconic chef behind HaiSous and Crying Tiger, but his story goes far beyond restaurants. In this Season 2 premiere of Supper with Sylvia, we discuss family, ambition, betrayal, resilience, and the lessons Thai has learned from the highs and lows of the restaurant industry. Most of all, it’s a conversation about continuing to grow, and finding a way to lift others up along the way.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

His life looked like a dream to outsiders: award-winning restaurants, a healthy family, national recognition, and a career at the top of the culinary world. But behind the scenes, pressure was mounting for Chef Jonathon Sawyer. The renowned chef was quietly struggling with addiction, at a time many believed he had everything. In this episode of Supper with Sylvia, the acclaimed chef of Kindling in Chicago shares his incredible story. Chef Sawyer opens up about the disconnect between his public success and private struggle, and reflects on turning his life around. Now more than three years sober, he's dedicated to building his friendships and helping others facing similar struggles. Listen in for this powerful conversation about ambition, addiction, and finding your way back to true happiness.

If you are facing mental health struggles, drug or alcohol abuse, or just need someone to talk to, the counselors at the 988 Lifeline are here for you. You are not alone. Simply dial 988 to receive support for all ages and situations.

Note from Sylvia: This episode will be our last of the season. I'm stepping away from the mic to focus on the next evolution of Supper with Sylvia. We are working on some incredible things behind the scenes, that we can't wait to share. In the meantime, make sure you're subscribed for when we come back. We'd love to hear your ideas on future guests, and topics you'd love to dive into.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

He's the man behind one of the most iconic Italian restaurants in Chicago. Tony Priolo brings his passion for simple, delicious ingredients to every dish at Piccolo Sogno; many of them coming direct from Italy. The River West spot is beloved for its secret-garden patio, curated wine list, and seasonal cuisine. But Tony is much more than a chef and restaurateur. In this episode of Supper with Sylvia, he opens up about his humanitarian work in Ukraine - including flying there on his own dime after the war broke out - and shares why baseball brings him just as much joy as cooking. Get ready to leave hungry, and inspired.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

2026 is here, and for about one in five of us, that means slowing down after the holiday indulgence. “Dry January” offers a chance to reset your relationship with alcohol - both physically and mentally - by taking a break from drinking, for the entire month. In this episode of Supper with Sylvia, we chat with the owners of a West Town non-alcoholic bottle shop about their top NA picks, from spirits to beer and wine alternatives that taste just like the real thing. Whether you’re taking a break or just curious, this episode proves that good times don’t have to come with a hangover.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

When you hear the name “José Andrés,” it’s hard to say what comes to mind first: award-winning chef, selfless humanitarian, best-selling author, television personality? All accurate accolades - and Andrés embraces each one of them with humility and humor. We cover all the bases, and then some, in this episode of Supper with Sylvia, including a visit inside José's own kitchen, that's sure to make your mouth water. The best part? You don’t have to live near one of his celebrated restaurants to enjoy his incredible cuisine. Mariano’s now carries Chef José's new line of Spanish foods, right here in Chicago - and we get a close-up preview of some of his favorites. This is a conversation you’ll savor long after it’s over.

Ways to give to World Central Kitchen

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

There's no shortage of incredible restaurants in Chicago, so how do you choose where to go? Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to indulge before Christmas, a top-tier tasting menu, or the best tavern style pizza you can find - The Infatuation has you covered. The website's honest, no-nonsense reviews take the guesswork out of where to grab your next meal. In today's Supper with Sylvia, we speak with The Infatuation's own Adrian Kane about the site's Top New Restaurants of 2025, along with our personal picks for every type of dining experience, plus the trends they see ahead for 2026. Grab a fork and hit play - your next great meal starts here.

What you'll discover:

• How The Infatuation visits restaurants multiple times before issuing a rating
• The methodology that goes into reviewing hundreds of Chicago dining spots
• The Top New Restaurants of 2025, including a rundown of the top five and what makes them so incredible
• Adrian and Sylvia's personal picks for their favorite spots of the year
• The top restaurant trends for 2026, including the rise of casual chic spots
• The rising popularity of omakase, and where to find it

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

It's the most wonderful time of the year, unless you torpedo the turkey! We're getting your holiday season started off right, with tips from the place that knows more about the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving meal, than anyone. Longtime Butterball Turkey Talk Line expert Andrea Balitewicz joins Sylvia to share her best advice for a flawless feast. From the one must-have kitchen item for every chef, to foolproof gravy moves, to jaw-dropping Turkey Day disaster stories from across the country... we’re covering every Thanksgiving base - and then some. Sharpen your carving knife and your confidence - and get ready to gobble up this episode of Supper with Sylvia.

What you'll discover:

• The one thing that every home cook absolutely must have to get their turkey just right
• Whether you can really trust that pop-out timer
• How to use your pan drippings to make the perfect gravy
• The mistake one dad made in an effort to help make life easier for his wife
• How NOT to thaw the turkey, courtesy of one family's Thanksgiving disaster
• The best tips for taste and safety, if you want to fry your bird this year
• Andrea's personal picks for a range of Thanksgiving would-you-rathers

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

With his signature overalls and bow tie, he's a classic farmer, on a modern mission. In this wide-ranging interview, Farmer Lee Jones shares the incredible journey of transforming his family farm into a model of regenerative agriculture. Farmer Lee discusses the importance of eating with the seasons, how to utilize the entire plant to cut down on your food waste, and his farm's collaboration with some of the world's best chefs. This conversation is filled with personal anecdotes, that will inspire even the busiest and most skeptical among us, to think about where our food comes from, and how we prepare it.

What you'll discover:

• What regenerative farming is, and why The Chef's Garden makes it the centerpiece of their mission
• How to utilize the whole plant to reduce food waste
• Farmer Lee's journey of rebuilding his family farm, after losing it as a teenager
• How eating in season is both healthier and more flavorful
• The Chef's Garden's relationship with some of the world's most renowned culinary names
• What inspired Farmer Lee's signature bowtie and overalls look

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

In this exclusive live episode recorded at The Metropolitan inside Chicago’s Willis Tower,host Sylvia Perez welcomes Brooke Webster, celebrated sommelier and Wine Ambassador for Olé & Obrigado. Brooke brings her passion for wine, hospitality, and community to the conversation, sharing how her deep knowledge of wines has made her a leading figure in both the culinary and LGBTQ+ hospitality scenes.

Brooke Webster discusses her journey through the restaurant and wine industries, offering listeners insight into how wine can transform dining experiences. Her ability to curate and pair wines that complement complex flavors reflects years of hands-on expertise and innovation in service.

The live audience enjoyed a four-course dinner created byChef Ivan Valdez, with each course paired perfectly with selections fromOlé & Obrigado’s acclaimed Spanish and Portuguese wine portfolio. Brooke guided attendees through the tasting, explaining each wine’s origin, flavor profile, and ideal food pairing. From crisp Albariños to bold Tempranillos, every detail highlighted how the right wine can turn a meal into a moment.

Broadcast live from one of Chicago’s most elegant venues, The Metropolitan at Willis Tower, this episode is a celebration of world-class food, fine wine, inclusivity, and authentic storytelling.

Special acknowledgment to Olé & Obrigado,Chef Ivan Valdez,and The Metropolitan Chicago for bringing this extraordinary event to life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Brooke Webster?
Brooke Webster is a highly respected sommelier and Wine Ambassador for Olé & Obrigado, known for her deep expertise in Spanish and Portuguese wines and her contributions to the LGBTQ+ bar and hospitality community.

What is Olé & Obrigado?
Olé & Obrigado is a premier wine importer and brand ambassador group that highlights the best of Spanish and Portuguese wines. Their mission is to connect exceptional winemakers with passionate consumers and hospitality professionals.

Where was this episode recorded?
This episode was recorded live at The Metropolitan, located in Chicago’s Willis Tower, one of the city’s most iconic venues for fine dining and events.

Who is Chef Ivan Valdez?
Chef Ivan Valdez curated the evening’s four-course menu, designed to complement the Olé & Obrigado wines featured in this live recording. His innovative culinary style bridges traditional and modern influences.

What topics are covered in this episode?
The conversation explores wine pairing techniques, hospitality culture, LGBTQ+ leadership in the food and beverage industry, and the artistry behind crafting unforgettable dining experiences.

Where can I listen to this podcast?
You can stream this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms by searching for Sylvia Perez Live from The Metropolitan featuring Brooke Webster.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

In this inspiring episode of Supper with Sylvia, Emmy Award-winning journalist and host Sylvia Perez welcomes Chef Rick Bayless, the celebrated chef, restaurateur, and cultural ambassador for authentic Mexican cuisine. Known for his acclaimed Chicago restaurants Frontera Grill, Topolobampo, and Tortas Frontera, Rick shares how he has elevated Mexican food to global recognition through storytelling, authenticity, and passion.

The conversation dives deep into how food connects us all — through memory, heritage, and community. Rick opens up about his creative process, the challenges of staying true to tradition while innovating, and how his culinary journey has become a platform for cultural understanding. Sylvia’s signature warmth and curiosity bring out the humanity behind the chef’s success, offering listeners both inspiration and practical wisdom.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How Rick Bayless redefined Mexican cuisine for the American palate
• The philosophy behind his award-winning restaurants and food storytelling
• The role of sustainability and cultural appreciation in modern dining
• Why authenticity and creativity are essential in every industry
• How Sylvia Perez brings real conversation and connection to the table

Key Quotes

“Food isn’t just nourishment — it’s memory, it’s love, it’s culture. Every plate tells a story.” — Rick Bayless

“The table is where we build understanding — it’s where we connect as humans.” — Sylvia Perez

About the Rick Bayless

Rick Bayless is an award-winning chef, restaurateur, and author best known for Frontera Grill and Topolobampo. His work celebrates authentic regional Mexican cuisine and emphasizes sustainability, community, and cultural storytelling.

Sylvia Perez is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and the host of Supper with Sylvia, a podcast where meaningful conversations unfold over shared stories, food, and connection. Through her interviews, Sylvia celebrates the power of authenticity and the human spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Rick Bayless’s approach to food unique?
Rick Bayless blends authenticity with innovation. His cuisine celebrates the depth and diversity of Mexican food traditions, highlighting local ingredients and the stories behind them.

Where can I visit Rick Bayless’s restaurants?
His flagship restaurants Frontera Grill and Topolobampo are located in Chicago, with additional casual dining spots like Tortas Frontera in major airports.

What is the focus of Supper with Sylvia?
Supper with Sylvia explores how food connects people, ideas, and cultures through meaningful, real conversations.

How can I listen to more episodes?
You can listen to Supper with Sylvia on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Is this episode suitable for aspiring chefs and food lovers?
Yes. This episode offers inspiration, practical insights, and creative perspectives for chefs, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about food and culture.

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

Everything is bigger in Texas—including the appetite for Michelin-starred dining. When Michelin finally awarded stars to restaurants in the Lone Star State, food lover Drew Stephenson set himself an ambitious challenge: eat at every single one. In this episode of Supper with Sylvia, Drew joins Sylvia Perez to share what inspired his Michelin quest (even with a newborn at home), how he managed the ultimate foodie road trip across Texas, and which restaurants truly stood out.

Drew takes us behind the scenes of his six-week culinary marathon, where he dined at all 15 Michelin-starred restaurants in Texas, from Austin’s quirky Barley Swine to Houston’s storytelling-driven March, and Dallas’ elegant omakase at Tatsu. He also reflects on his Chicago fine-dining experiences, including Alinea—which he calls the best meal of his life.

Whether you’re a Texas local, a Chicago foodie, or a Michelin fan, this episode is packed with insider picks, road trip stories, and a passion for dining that will leave you hungry for more.

Follow Drew on Instagram: @DrewTheFoodGuy

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why Michelin’s arrival in Texas was a foodie milestone
• Drew’s top 2 Texas Michelin restaurants you must visit
• How he managed to hit all 15 starred spots in just six weeks
• What it really costs to dine Michelin-style in Texas
• Why Chicago’s Alinea still ranks as his number one dining experience
• Balancing foodie adventures with life as a new dad

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

Pumpkin spice isn’t just for fall anymore — in Chicago’s Norwood Park, it’s a way of life. On this episode of Supper with Sylvia, I sit down with Audrey Borden and Michelle Gonzalez, the powerhouse couple behind October Café, the city’s first year-round, fall-themed coffee shop. Known for their warm greeting (“Nice to meet you, pumpkin!”) and their famous pumpkin spice latte, October Café is redefining PSL culture in ChiTown.

Inside This Episode:

• The love story that inspired October Café’s always-autumn vibe.
• What makes their pumpkin spice latte different from Starbucks, Dunkin, and the rest of the coffee giants?
• Why their coffee flights — from Maple Forest Latte to Cuddle Weather Hot Chocolate — have become a local craze.
• How a queer, Latina-owned café turned into a family hub, complete with value meals for students and cozy spaces for commuters.
• Their vision for the future — expansion, events, and raising their very first little pumpkin.

Why October Café is a PSL Lover’s Dream

• Real pumpkin in every latte — no mass-produced syrup here.
• Locally roasted Dark Matter Coffee beans are brewed fresh for every cup.
• Affordable, community-first pricing that makes coffee accessible to all.
• A true fall experience year-round, with flavors, colors, and cozy vibes that never go out of season.

Visit October Café

Located in Norwood Park, Chicago, October Café has quickly become a favorite for commuters, families, and students looking for the comfort of fall every single day.

Follow along on Instagram & Facebook for drink flights, seasonal specials, and their signature pumpkin-filled personality.⬇️

INSTAGRAM: (2) Instagram

FACEBOOK: (4) Facebook

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

Join me, Sylvia Perez, for a special LIVE edition of the Supper With Sylvia podcast at the Metropolitan on the 67th floor of Willis Tower. We’ll enjoy a multi-course wine-pairing dinner by Chef Iván Valdez of Taquizas Valdez while I sit down with sommelier Brooke Webster to talk all things wine, her impact in Chicago, and the stories behind each pour.

An intimate evening of food, wine, and conversation awaits—high above the Chicago skyline.

Get your ticket here:Pours & Podcasts: Wine Dinner with Sylvia Perez

Non-alcoholic is no longer “just grape juice.” The sober-curious movement is exploding—from Dry January to Sober October and everything in between—and Chicago’s In Good Spiritsis at the front of it. FoundersAdriana Gospar(five years alcohol-free) and Hector Diaz (post-cancer, wellness-first) share how pop-ups turned into a West Town destination for NA wine, beer, “tequila,” gin, bourbon…and functional drinks with adaptogens that help you relax or focus—without the booze.

We dig into:

• What de-alcoholized wine actually is (and why it costs real-wine prices)
• How NA spirits shine in cocktails even without ethanol’s “bite”
• Functional ingredients like ashwagandha, reishi, L-theanine, lion’s mane
• Their top NA picks for tequila, gin, whiskey-adjacent pours, and beer
• How Gen Z and “drink-less not none” adults are reshaping nightlife & home rituals
• Building community: tastings, happy hours, mocktail workshops & a walk club

If you’ve wondered how to feel different—without a hangover, this one’s your perfect starter kit.

Guests:
Adriana Gospar & Hector Diaz—co-founders, In Good Spirits (West Town, Chicago).

Visit In Good SpiritsIRL in West Town or explore brands directly online. Tell them Supper with Sylvia sent you!

Suggested chapter markers

00:00 Intro — Dry January → sober-curious momentum
02:00 Meet Adriana & Hector + origin story
07:30 Pop-ups to West Town shop: community reaction
12:10 What is de-alcoholized wine & why the price?
18:40 Functional bevs & adaptogens explained
25:10 NA “tequila,” agave spirits & cocktail use
31:00 Favorite gin & whiskey-adjacent picks
36:10 NA beer that tastes legit (local Chicago recs)
41:20 How to buy if you’re not in Chicago
45:00 What’s next for In Good Spirits + events
48:00 Final advice for the sober-curious

On-air talking points & pull quotes

• “Think of NA wine as wine that had the alcohol gently removed, not juice.”
• “Cocktails are where NA spirits shine—expect flavor, not ethanol’s burn.”
• “Functional drinks can help you unwind or focus—no hangover required.”

Featured recommendations (mentioned on the show)

• Whiskey-adjacent/functional: Three Spirit Nightcap
• Gin: Cut Above; Monday; Lyre’s (plus Lyre’s G&T RTD)
• Agave/‘tequila’ style: ALMAVE (Lewis Hamilton x master distiller Iván Saldaña)
• Beer (Chicago/nearby): Gears Beer (Logan Square), VISITOR, Go Brewing (Naperville); also Athletic Brewing

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

On Supper with Sylvia, host Sylvia Perez sits down with Chef Robert Garvey, the New York transplant behind Robert’s Pizza & Dough Co. in Chicago’s Streeterville—recently recognized by 50 Top Pizza as #10 in the U.S. and among the Top 100 in the world. Robert shares why the magic isn’t in the sauce—it’s in the fermented crust—and the 25-year origin story that took him from merchant marine and hot-dog vendor to one of Chicago’s most celebrated pizzaiolos.

What You’ll Learn
• Why Robert says great pizza starts with wild yeast and a two-day ferment
• How he maintained a 25-year sourdough starter (captured in Chicago)
• The restaurant’s COVID survival and the team culture that powers consistency
• Turning fine-dining ideas into boundary-pushing pizzas (Orient Express and Latin-inspired menus)
• The “Garvey Girls” ice-cream pizza story and what it taught him about caramelization
• Expansion talk: what’s next for Robert’s Pizza

Key Quotes
• “It’s great food on a great crust—we just happen to call it pizza.”
• “That little black char isn’t burning—it’s caramelizing the flour’s natural sugars.”
• “Consistency wins: meet expectations—and then beat them.”

Episode Chapters
00:00 – Cold open: Why the crust matters
00:54 – Welcome, Chef Robert Garvey
02:00 – Pushing the culinary envelope (tasting menus and beyond-pizza dishes)
04:06 – The 8-year obsession: hundreds of recipes, thousands of pies
06:13 – Anatomy of the crust: wild yeast, two-day ferment, artisan flavor
08:05 – Merchant marine to pizzaiolo: engineering ships to engineering dough
11:18 – From hot-dog cart at CBGB to culinary simplicity
13:12 – Streeterville roots, Chicago wild yeast, and the “be careful what you focus on” moment
14:24 – Awards: #10 in the U.S., Top 100 worldwide (50 Top Pizza)
16:36 – Consistency, team culture, and meeting/beating expectations
18:39 – The “Garvey Girls” ice-cream pizza surprise
21:08 – Where Robert eats: The Duck Inn
22:02 – What’s next: new Latin-inspired dinner and expansion possibilities
24:12 – Sylvia’s wrap: location, cocktails, and summer on the dock

Guest
Chef Robert Garvey —Founder, Robert’s Pizza & Dough Co. (Streeterville, Chicago). Known for a meticulously fermented, char-kissed crust and chef-driven pies. Recognized by 50 Top Pizza (#10 U.S.; Top 100 World).

Mentioned
• Orient Express tasting menu and Latin-American-inspired dinner series
• The Duck Inn (Chef Kevin Hickey)
• Streeterville river dock patio (summer dining)

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

On this episode of Supper with Sylvia, Emmy-winning journalist Sylvia Perez sits down with Chef Kevin Hickey, the award-winning Chicago chef behind The Duck Inn in Bridgeport. Just steps away from his childhood home, Hickey has transformed a historic neighborhood tavern into one of Chicago’s most celebrated restaurants—famed for its legendary rotisserie duck, creative cocktails, pizza nights, and backyard pig roasts.

From his years at the Four Seasons Chicago to becoming the culinary pioneer who brought diners to Bridgeport, Hickey opens up about the risks, rewards, and roots that shaped his journey. He shares the remarkable history of The Duck Inn’s century-old tavern, the revival of the iconic Ramova Theatre, and why community has always been at the heart of his work.

This conversation is packed with Chicago flavor—from cheese curds and Malört to riverfront patios, Hyde Park regulars, and Duck Fat Hot Dogs that have become a citywide obsession. If you love Chicago’s food scene or dream of opening your own neighborhood spot, this is an episode you can’t miss.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Chef Kevin Hickey went from fine dining at the Four Seasons to opening The Duck Inn in his hometown.
• The rich history of the Bridgeport tavern turned restaurant and why it’s such a beloved neighborhood spot.
• The revival of the Ramova Theatre with support from Jennifer Hudson, Chance the Rapper, and Quincy Jones’ family.
• Why technology (GPS, rideshare) changed Chicago dining and made destination neighborhoods like Bridgeport thrive.
• The story behind Duck Inn’s signature dishes—from rotisserie duck to Duck Fat Hot Dogs.
• Kevin’s favorite hidden gem restaurants in Chinatown, Pilsen, and beyond.

Resources & Links:

• Visit The Duck Inn Chicago

• Follow The Duck Inn on Instagram: @theduckinnchicago

• Learn more about the Ramova Theatre

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

In this deeply moving live episode of Supper with Sylvia, recorded at Curtis Duffy’s After lounge, Sylvia sits down with the celebrated chef and author of Fireproof: Memoir of a Chef. Together, they explore the raw edges of Curtis’s journey—from traumatic beginnings in rural Ohio to becoming one of the most celebrated culinary figures in the world. This is a conversation about survival, reinvention, and the healing power of craft.

Episode Overview

Curtis opens up about his turbulent childhood, marked by instability and adversity. Growing up in rural Ohio with a father in an outlaw biker gang and scarce resources, he discovered refuge in cooking through a high school Home Economics class and vocational culinary programs. These early sparks would lead him to some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country.

At just nineteen, his life was shattered by tragedy when his stepmother was kidnapped and his father died in a murder-suicide after a standoff with police. In Fireproof, Curtis shares how facing this unimaginable trauma became a turning point, forcing him to find purpose in discipline, creativity, and hard work. Writing the memoir was his way of confronting the past—putting it on paper so it could lose its power over him.

From Kitchen Apprentice to Michelin Starred Chef

Curtis’s culinary ascent began in Chicago under the mentorship of iconic chefs like Charlie Trotter and Grant Achatz. At Avenues, he earned two Michelin stars, then co-founded Grace, where he achieved the rare honor of three Michelin stars for four consecutive years. Yet at the height of Grace’s acclaim, he made the difficult decision to walk away, valuing integrity and creative freedom over comfort and prestige.

Writing Fireproof

In collaboration with author Jeremy Wagner, Curtis crafted Fireproof as an unflinching memoir that blends the intensity of metal music, the grit of outlaw culture, and the artistry of fine dining. The book has been described as “Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential meets Sons of Anarchy,” offering an intimate look at both the brutality and beauty of his life.

Themes You’ll Hear in This Episode

• How Curtis turned personal tragedy into a lifelong pursuit of excellence
• The discipline and intentionality behind a Michelin-starred kitchen
• The decision to leave Grace and rebuild on his own terms
• Why Fireproof is as much about healing as it is about cooking

Buy Curtis' book on Amazon: Amazon.com: Fireproof (Audible Audio Edition): Curtis Duffy, Stacy Carolan, Jeremy Wagner - contributor, Dead Sky Publishing: Books

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell

JOIN ME LIVE FOR MY PODCAST FEATURING CURTIS DUFFY- AUGUST 4th:

LIVE - Supper with Sylvia Perez feat. Chef Curtis Duffy - After - Chicago, IL | Tock | Tock

In this soulful and inspiring episode of Supper With Sylvia, we sit down with James Beard Award-winning Chef Erick Williams, the culinary visionary behind Chicago's celebrated Virtue Restaurant and newest hotspot Countina Rosa. Sylvia and Erick dive deep into how food can create community, celebrate culture, and transform lives — one plate at a time.

🍽️ Featured Topics:

• 🏆 Erick’s Accolades: From 2020 Chicagoan of the Year to 2023 Innovator of the Year
• 🥃 Countina Rosa: Chicago’s newest Mexican spirit and agave bar
• 🥘 Virtue Restaurant: A soulful sanctuary for Southern cuisine and Black diaspora storytelling
• 🖼️ Art and Atmosphere: The story behind Virtue’s powerful visual curation
• 👨🏽‍🍳 Virtue Leadership Development Program: Training the next generation of chefs through empathy and excellence
• 🌆 South Side Love: Bridging neighborhoods, dismantling stereotypes, and welcoming all
• 🧳 The Joy of Food and Travel: What resets Chef Williams (Hint: It includes gumbo and hotel rooms by the beach)

💬 Memorable Quote:

“Kindness is our secret sauce. When people feel welcomed and valued, the food just tastes better.” – Erick Williams“Legacy isn’t just about what you build. It’s about how you leave people better than you found them.” – Erick Williams

🛎️ Local Love Shout-Outs:

• Daisy’s Po’Boy & Tavern
• Top This Mac n Cheese
• Mustard Seed Kitchen
• Pico La Sonja (Chef Tony Priolo)
• Lula Cafe
• Zaragoza
• Monteverde
• Boka

🎧 Tune In For:

• Chicago’s culinary evolution through the eyes of a master chef
• Real talk on leadership, equity, and elevating communities
• Why hospitality goes far beyond what’s on the plate

🔗 Connect With Erick Williams:

• Virtue Restaurant Website: Virtue Restaurant
• Follow on Instagram

📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram.
📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com

This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S.

🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s

Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite.

👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products

Producer: Jennifer Waters

Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting

Strategy and Partnerships: Iliana Blasdell