Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Morris.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Bespoke has actually been around for 15 years in the West Loop location. It was started by Kim Shambrook and Jeannie Lukow as a catering business and they started doing the interactive cooking parties that we are known for today. I was a chef for them while working as a pastry chef at the Racquet Club of Chicago and Table 52. I tried my hand at my own baking business for a few years, all the while, working at Bespoke. The previous owners decided to sell Bespoke four years ago and I, along with another Bespoke chef, Clay Champlin, decided to keep it in the family. We have kept the same structure for the cooking parties while introducing some new menus and changing up the decor of our dining room. It has been a challenge going from chefs to business owners, but we both love what we do and I hope that comes through to our clients. We always want to provide a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Hands down marketing has been our biggest challenge. We know how to throw a fun party and our clients are always happy when they leave Bespoke. We have a lot of repeat clients which is a direct compliment to us and our staff. The main problem is getting the word out. (or at least finding the time to do so)
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Bespoke Cuisine – what should we know?
Bespoke specializes in interactive cooking parties. Please notice, we like to call them parties, not lessons. We want people to have a fun evening when they come into Bespoke. We break the larger group up into smaller teams, each with a Bespoke chef, so they can prepare their meal together. Then the guests get to sit down and enjoy the meal they just created. We have a lot of different menus and cuisines to choose from and they are all mix and match so guests can really customize their meal to their preference. It is a great event for corporate team building, intern events, team reward events, bachelorette parties, anniversaries, birthdays, showers or any special occasion.
Also, we are BYOB for alcohol, which helps to make it even more of a party.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Obviously, my business partner, Clay Champlin. We try to share the work load so that we can have lives outside of Bespoke as well. Kim Shambrook and Jeannie Lukow since this was their baby and they entrusted us with it. Our awesome Bespoke staff… it takes a special person to do front and back of the house. Not only do they have to create delicious meals, but they are instructing our guests and entertaining them as well.
Pricing:
- $87.50pp with a 15 person minimum for plated/seated meal or an all-appetizer event
- $110pp for a competition cooking party
Contact Info:
- Address: 1358-60 W Randolph
Chicago, IL 60607 - Website: www.bespokecuisine.com
- Phone: 312-455-8400
- Email: info@bespokecuisine.com
- Instagram: www.instagramcom/bespokecuisine
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BespokeCuisineChicago/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/bespoke-cuisine-chicago?osq=Bespoke+Cuisine
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.
