Today we’d like to introduce you to Tom Van Lente.
Tom, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Having cut my teeth with some of Chicago’s highest profile restaurant groups – The BoKa Restaurant Group, One Off Hospitality and Four Corners Tavern Group, I knew I could handle the pressure of the kitchen, the business side of the industry, and the balance. Being recognized from organizations ranging from The Michelin Guide, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine and Plate Magazine have helped me push for the highest of standards in both food and hospitality.
Recently, I added a new position to my resume: business owner. I started my company, TVL Culinary, in the fall of 2017. My passion for top-tier products, high-quality execution and relentless approach to hospitality has never been stronger. I now have the ability to bring my own flair and expertise to your home, office or any space in need of an event or party.
TVL Culinary is in full swing with dinners, consulting opportunities and even has a couple weddings filling up the calendar. When I’m not cooking, consulting or throwing the best dinner parties around, I can be found keeping a close eye on my family run business, Drury Lane Theater in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois. I call Roscoe Village home with my wife Shannon, son Benson and pitbull, Mr. Bananas.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’ve been very lucky that it’s been a pretty smooth ride so far! I have the same challenges as most Chefs, restaurateurs and entrepreneurs have. Staying relevant, being efficient, making money, sourcing the best products, etc..
Even though I don’t operate out of a brick & mortar, I still have to game plan, prep, execute and keep every single client happy. I only have myself to blame if something goes wrong. I do have to say, not having to deal with the city is a huge advantage!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with TVL Culinary – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
TVL Culinary was created in the hopes that I can bring my knowledge and experience from years in professional kitchens, into your home, office or anywhere in need of a kick-ass party. I work hand in hand with every client to make sure they are getting exactly what they want. It’s their money, their friends, their event. Why should they have to pick from a preselected menu when that may not be what they actually want?
I want to give them the comfort of knowing that they are getting a top tier experience that is truly one of a kind. I’d say I’m most proud of the fact that I have been busy since day one. It should be everyone’s dream to one day work for themselves. Due to my amazingly supportive wife, family and friends, this dream has come true for me.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I honestly have no idea where this venture can take me! I have been contacted to do a few out of town dinners and events and that’s a whole different ballgame. I’d like to pursue those options and see if TVLC can go coast to coast.
In the meantime, I just want to stay busy doing my thing. It takes a special (or crazy) kind of person to regularly go into people’s homes and cook/entertain. This business really has no boundaries so while staying busy is very important, I’d like to see how I can push the envelope even further.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3050 North Hoyne Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618
- Website: www.tvlculinary.com
- Phone: 3124808129
- Email: tom@tvlculinary.com
- Instagram: @tomvanlente
- Facebook: tomvanlente
Image Credit:
John Khuu
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
