IRA President & CEO Sam Toia Named to NewCity's Big Heat 2019: Chicago’s Food and Drink 50

IRA President & CEO Sam Toia was recently featured on NewCity's Big Heat 2019: Chicago’s Food and Drink 50 list. Coming in at #14 on the list, Sam was commended for the IRA's work to bring the James Beard Awards, Chicago Gourmet and other food-centric events to town, as well as his advocacy efforts for the industry.

“Culinary tourism is bringing millennials from St. Louis, Milwaukee and Minneapolis. They grew up with the Food Channel and Food Network, so it’s all about the experience," said Toia. He also noted that restaurants are opening on the South Side and in neighborhoods like Pilsen and Avondale, and millennials are more likely to venture farther than older generations. “We want to make sure we keep promoting the culinary industry all over Chicago," said Toia.

Click here to read the full list from NewCity.