CAFÉ Update June 1, 2026
01 June 2026Attention culinary/baking/pastry instructors and deans and directors!!
The annual CAFÉ conference JUST FOR YOU will be in Chicago, June 22-25! We will be having speakers, panelists, peer presentations as well as an InfoFair, wonderful reception and a surprise Italian luncheon…all planned to be of use to you…educators in this ever-changing world of culinary arts.
Special Notes:
ACF CONTINUING EDUCATION HOURS will be awarded to all registered attendees. A great way to build your portfolio. Credits will range from 3 hours to 19 hours.
The Palmer House lobby bar will host A MEET AND GREET for the attendees of the Deans and Directors Retreat on Monday evening, 5:30-6:30. You can pick up your badge, meet your colleagues, and enjoy a drink on us!
Our opening night reception, June 23, you are welcome to bring a guest. Great food and beverages!
Kendall College, our host, is a short walk from the hotel. Please allow time to walk there and to enjoy a continental breakfast at the school.
It’s not too late to register! For conference and registration information, click here.
The hotel block is closed, but if you contact the hotel directly, they may still honor the CAFÉ rate.
Mary Petersen
Executive Editor, Gold Medal Classroom
President, Center for the Advancement of Foodservice Education
2026 Conference Information
Master Class Information – Chocolate and Pizza
The hotel accommodations will be the Palmer House Hilton in Chicago (Room Block is closed please reach out to the hotel directly to secure a room. Phone : 312-726-7500). 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.
2026 Conference Countdown: Partner Spotlight
Leading up to the conference, we’ll be spotlighting our 2026 Conference Partners. We’re proud to collaborate with this exceptional group of sponsors who make our conferences truly possible.
Watch all the 2026 Conference “Meet Our Partner” videos on our YouTube channel: @Cafemeetingplace
CAFÉ Talks Podcast – Season 11?
For a video peek of episode 109, click here.
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.
For our complete lineup of podcast or to subscribe, go to www.CafeMeetingPlace.com/cafe-podcasts.
For video peeks of our launched episodes, go to our Facebook page, CafeMeetingPlace.
CAFÉ CONTACT INFORMATION
Mary Petersen, President, CAFÉ; Executive Editor, The Gold Medal Classroom
(410) 268-5542 (office)
(443) 994-8228 (cell)
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Lisa Parrish, Editor, The Gold Medal Classroom
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Mary Young, Administrative Assistant
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Paul Sorgule, Host, CAFETalks Podcast
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