Chicago Dining, James Beard Awards & How to Score Top Restaurant Reservations

🎙️ Have you ever tried booking a table at one of Chicago’s hottest restaurants only to find every reservation snatched up—or held hostage by a third-party app demanding sky-high fees? You’re not alone. In this eye-opening episode of Supper With Sylvia , Emmy Award-winning journalist Sylvia Perez is joined by Sam Toia , President and CEO of the Illinois Restaurant Association , to uncover how reservation apps and ticketing platforms are reshaping the way Chicagoans dine out . Together, they discuss: ✅ Why it’s getting harder to secure reservations at Chicago’s best restaurants ✅ How third-party reservation apps and scalpers are driving up costs for diners ✅ What local chefs and restaurateurs are doing to fight back against pay-to-play dining ✅ The impact of reservation reselling on small businesses and independent restaurants 🎉 Plus, it’s the most anticipated event of the culinary calendar—The James Beard Awards! Sylvia breaks down what the awards mean for Chicago’s restaurant scene and who’s in the running this year to be crowned Best Chef and Best Restaurant . From legendary taquerias to innovative cocktail bars, Windy City chefs are stepping up to the plate , showcasing the talent, creativity, and resilience that have made Chicago a world-class dining destination. 🍽️ In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Insider strategies for booking tables without paying exorbitant fees How the Illinois Restaurant Association is working to protect diners and restaurant owners Which Chicago chefs, restaurants, and bartenders are nominated for James Beard Awards this year How these awards impact restaurant visibility, tourism, and the local economy Whether you’re a food lover, an industry insider, or simply someone who wants to enjoy a great meal without jumping through hoops , this episode is packed with insights that will change the way you think about dining reservations. Show notes; Illinois Restaurant Association https://www.illinoisrestaurants.org James Beard Awards https://www.jamesbeard.org This episode is produced by Jane Stephens Original music and audio engineering by Donnie Cutting Social Media and Promotions by Magali Blasdell 📌Check out SupperwithSylvia on Instagram. 📩Email us at SupperwithSylvia@gmail.com This episode is brought to you by MARIANO'S. 🛒 Proudly Sponsored by Mariano’s Looking for local flavor you can bring home? Discover chef-crafted sauces, pastas, oils, and more from your favorite Chicago chefs — now available through Mariano’s We Love Local program. Support local artisans, savor authentic taste, and celebrate Chicago’s culinary spirit with every bite. 👉 Explore Mariano’s We Love Local Products Social Media Marketing: Magali Blasdell Video and Audio Editor: Donnie Cutting Marketing and Media Relations: Julie Lokun Producer: Jennifer Waters