Nicolet College gearing up for ‘Chef Week’

RHINELANDER - Nicolet College is inviting the community to experience an exciting new culinary event later this month.

“Chef Week: Fire, Flavor and Food Trucks” will be held at Nicolet, 5364 College Dr., Rhinelander, from Monday, April 20 through Wednesday, April 22.

A release from Nicolet said Chef Week is designed for everyone, from restaurant professionals and aspiring chefs to food enthusiasts and families looking for a unique local experience.

“This event brings together nationally recognized chefs, award-winning culinary professionals and local food entrepreneurs for three days of live demonstrations, hands-on inspiration and real-world food business insights,” Nicolet said.

Nicolet noted that a highlight of the week will be the Food Truck Rally on Wednesday, April 22 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., a family-friendly event that is open to the community.

“Chef Week is about more than cooking,” said Ellen Mathein, Dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Nicolet College. “It’s about creativity, entrepreneurship and community. We wanted to create something that gives people access to incredible culinary talent while also inspiring the next generation of chefs, food truck owners and hospitality leaders.”

The cost for the event is $10.00 per session, and registration is limited to 60 seats per session. The food truck rally is open to everyone, with food available for purchase.

Throughout the week, attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Watch live cooking demonstrations from top chefs. 
• Learn techniques for wood-fired cooking, barbecue and craft cocktails. 
• Gain insight into launching and growing food-based businesses. 
• Experience the intersection of culinary arts and entrepreneurship. 

Featured presenters include:

• Luke Zahm, James Beard Award semifinalist and co-owner of Driftless Café. 
• Jeff Dixon, craft cocktail expert and owner of Juliett Cocktail Lounge. 
• Mitch Below, Nicolet College Culinary Arts Instructor. 
• Joe Bending, owner of The Wandering Chef. 
• Dillon Carlson, chef and co-owner of The Old Reliable Food Service. 
• Joshua Peters, pitmaster and owner of Shank N Shig BBQ.

For more information or to register, visit www.nicoletcollege.edu/chefweek.