Inspiration and Information for your Tabletop

An increase in single-use plastics use has had unmitigated impacts across the globe

When the Coronavirus outbreak began in 2019, its effects rippled out in unusual ways to be felt in the most unexpected places. Once restaurants shut down, takeout became the only viable option, which necessitated a switch to single-use containers. Now that businesses have reopened, many have chosen to stay with disposables out of hygiene concerns.

PVD Copper flatware like the Talia Copper collection above add zest to any setting

The oft overlooked cousin of gold and silver, copper is a naturally-occurring metal and gorgeous color. We looked into this metal's ancient history and modern applications of the shade in design.

BauscherHepp's Sales Representative Group of the Year comprises Glen Turner (left) and Zac Long (right)

We are always so excited to declare our Sales Representative Group of the Year, and this was especially true after finishing up a tough year like 2020. Vegas-based group AJ Sales blew us away with their sales numbers in 2020, exceeding their sales plan by 43.9% and surpassing their 2019 numbers by 69.4%. We asked AJ Sales Principal Glen Turner about the secret to his success, the addition of a new team member, adapting to the challenges of COVID, and the new AJ Sales showroom!  

Featuring Nara Grey by Playground, Stuttgart Yellow-Gold by Bauscher, Pantone's Colors of the Year, Bento Boxes by MyGlassStudio, and Purity Favorites by Bauscher

A new year begins, and Pantone’s Colors of the Year have been chosen! That’s not a typo, by the way. For only the second time in history, TWO colors have been chosen for 2021: Ultimate Gray (a warm, light gray) and Illuminating (a sunny lemon yellow).

Photo courtesy of Wallace Wong's website: sixpackchef.com

Wallace Wong has come a long way since helping his grandparents in the kitchen as a child. Our Canadian friends in particular may recognize his name from a variety of Food Network television programs: he's won Fridge Wars and Chopped Canada, finished 3rd in Top Chef Canada, and placed as a top 10 finalist in Bake It Possible. We recently asked The Six Pack Chef some questions about his illustrious career. 

Winners of the CultureMap Tastemaker awards like Chef Chris Shepherd of Georgia James pictured above were announced last week

This month the CultureMap Tastemaker Awards announced the winners of their annual celebration of Texan culinary talent. According to the CultureMap website, their mission “is to shine a spotlight on the people making the local restaurant scene special and honor their innovation, energy, and creativity.” We were honored to see so many of our customers recognized for their vision, and we are so grateful to work with each and every one.

Photos courtesy of Rosewater Kitchen & Bar

As businesses continue to reopen, you may find your seating capacity greatly reduced to accommodate Covid safety measures. It may be time to think outside the box, or rather, outside the walls. Outdoor dining is a welcome addition to any restaurant, and it creates new opportunities for your business. Here are a few things to keep in mind when expanding or creating your outdoor space:

In-Room dining is a popular option with high-end hotels, and may present new opportunities in a post-Covid era.

In-Room Dining, also known as Room Service, has existed in some way or another for a few centuries now, but its first official record is from the 1931 reopening of The Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York. The Waldorf was already famous for its glamorous and luxurious style. When it was relocated to its present location in Midtown Manhattan this reputation only grew with the addition of modern innovations such as full electric wiring, a telephone in every room, restaurant reservations, and of course room service. This premiere service allowed guests to enjoy meals in the comfort of their own rooms.

Award-winning Chef Chris Shepherd is giving back to the community through his Southern Smoke Foundation

As businesses begin to reopen after months of closure, it’s important to remember that some members of the food and beverage industry are still suffering. Luckily there’s help out there, thanks to James Beard award winner Chris Shepherd. You probably recognize the name of this Houston restaurateur and owner of One Fifth, UB Preserv, The Hay Merchant, Georgia James, and Underbelly Catering.

Plating on porcelain is the best way to present food hygienically and beautifully.

Hygiene and sanitation have always been front-of-mind for those in the hospitality industry and after months of closures and quarantines, we’re thinking more than ever about the hygiene not only of where we’re eating but what we’re eating from. It’s no coincidence that porcelain has always been the choice for food service. Its ability to withstand the rigors of catering makes it perfect for professional applications.