Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo, husband and wife co-owners of Esmé, met when they were both starting out in the industry at MK, a groundbreaking Chicago restaurant that has since closed. The pair eventually married and ventured out on their own, opening Esmé in 2021.
The Chicago fine-dining restaurant embodies their vision to marry Bravo’s passion for art and Tomaska’s passion for culinary artistry with the shared goal of providing first-rate hospitality.
Esmé offers an evolving tasting menu inspired by Chicago’s rich cultural scene. The couple collaborate with local artists and creatives, and each quarter, Esme’s menu, servingware, décor and music reflect the current artistic collaboration.
Listen as Bravo and Tomaska describe their one-of-a-kind Michelin-starred dining destination and share how they tell their story through a culinary and artistic lens.
An inside look at the James Beard Awards, McAlister's menu expansion and creamsicle drinks
Pepe Moncayo's food at Cranes in Washington, D.C. reflects the sum of his experience
So long Menu Feed, welcome to Menu Talk
How Gott's Roadside evolves the menu while honoring the restaurant's 25-year legacy
How culinary inspiration and a positive work culture share equal billing at Freight House
John Manion pays tribute to Brazilian cuisine at his new restaurant, Brasero
How well-written recipes can optimize productivity and profitability in the kitchen
How Vino Volo's airport wine bars create a unique oasis for travelers
IHOP hits the accelerator on menu innovation with Chef Arthur Carl at the helm
From Washington D.C. to Florida, Ryan Ratino creates memorable dining destinations
How Charleston's Husk restaurant stays relevant in a competitive dining city
How Nekter Juice Bar is breaking away from the pack in a crowded segment
How BurgerFi and Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza are generating menu buzz
How Neil Doherty and Sysco's culinary team help operators meet today's labor challenges
How Philippe Massoud paved the way for Lebanese fine dining in the U.S.
What's impacting menus in the year ahead
How Bar Louie is putting a culinary focus on lunch and dinner without losing its bar vibe
Outback Steakhouse innovates the menu by giving equal play to food and drink
How Table 301's restaurants hit all the right notes in Greenville, S.C.
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
50 Tastes Of Gray
Walk-In Talk Podcast
Gastropod
Anne of Green Gables
Pride and Prejudice
The Recipe with Kenji and Deb
All on the Table with Katie Lee Biegel