On Tuesday, March 28th, the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP), along with partners Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center and Michigan City Chamber of Commerce, held the first Hospitality Excellence Series geared towards professionals in the restaurant/hospitality industry at The Red Door, 612 Lincolnway. Attendees were treated to charcuterie boards and wood fired pizza along with optional craft cocktails upon arrival. Keynote speaker, Chef Marcelo Marino of La Ventana, used the first part of the event to introduce himself and his impressive 35-year career as an internationally acclaimed chef, restauranteur, and educator, stating hospitality is his passion and he wants to help the local businesses to make La Porte a destination.
“Historically, La Porte has been ‘the door’, to go through the state and beyond,” Chef Marino said. “Today La Porte has all the ingredients to become a Hospitality Industry Leader in the region. The talent, the desire, the knowledge, and the passion are there. Together we can create wonderful experiences for our community!”
A major theme during the discussion was the importance of everyone working together and thinking outside the box. Everyone needs to find their niche and instead of seeing other businesses as competition, see them as opportunity.
LEAP President of Business Services Mike Riehle added, “Chef Marcelo Marino is an example of what it takes to not only bring the hospitality segment together, but a community. We have great assets in our local restaurants, and we need to show them support. I hope the event along with his energy and excitement for our community galvanize our businesses to come together and work cooperatively.”
The next session will be held at Hotspot Café, 602 Lincolnway, on May 9th beginning at 4:30 p.m. and will focus on marketing and sales. If you are a professional in the restaurant/hospitality industry and are interested in joining the Excellence Series, please reach out to Mike Riehle at miker@laportepartnership.com to learn more.
