Flossmoor Chef Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of Restaurant in Chicago Black Restaurant Week
A New Chapter for The Bistro on Sterling
Executive Chef and Owner Yvette Zavala is marking a significant milestone: the one-year anniversary of her restaurant, The Bistro on Sterling, in Flossmoor, Illinois. This momentous occasion coincides with the kick-off of Chicago’s Black Restaurant Week, which aims to highlight the culinary excellence of Black-owned restaurants.
A Passion for Cooking
Zavala’s journey in the restaurant industry spans over 30 years. She has always been passionate about cooking, even as a young child. “I have loved cooking since I was four. I was the kid that your grandma had to shoe out of the kitchen,” she said. Her experience and dedication have culminated in her own commercial kitchen, where she creates mouthwatering dishes inspired by various backgrounds.
The Menu
The Bistro on Sterling’s menu features a range of dishes that showcase Zavala’s creativity. The Nola Pasta is a fan favorite, consisting of diced chicken, andouille sausage, and Cajun cream sauce. For a meatless option, the black bean and carrot tacos are a delicious choice.
Whole Foods, Fresh Ingredients
Zavala is committed to using only whole foods and fresh ingredients in her cooking. “I can name everything that’s in my food because I only cook with whole foods. There is nothing frozen. Everything is fresh,” she emphasized.
Participating in Chicago Black Restaurant Week
The Bistro on Sterling is one of 43 participating restaurants in Chicago Black Restaurant Week, which was founded by Lauran Smith to spotlight Black-owned restaurants during Black History Month. The event aims to educate foodies about the rich culinary heritage of the Black community.
Special Offers and Events
Throughout the week, participating restaurants will offer special dishes, promotions, and events. Ten years after its inception, Smith encourages foodies to explore this year’s offerings, which include vegan options, smoothies, specialty teas, caviar, champagne, and more.
A New Chapter for The Bistro on Sterling
As a first-time participant in Chicago Black Restaurant Week, Zavala is thrilled to be a part of this movement. “To find out that this is a movement and I’m a big foodie myself—and then to actually be a part of it—it means everything to me. I want people to know that I’m here. I want people to come out and try my cuisines,” she said.
Conclusion
The Bistro on Sterling’s one-year anniversary and participation in Chicago Black Restaurant Week mark an exciting chapter for the restaurant and the community. Zavala’s commitment to using whole foods and fresh ingredients, combined with her passion for cooking, have created a culinary experience that is truly unique and enjoyable.
FAQs
Q: What is Chicago Black Restaurant Week?
A: Chicago Black Restaurant Week is an annual event that highlights the culinary excellence of Black-owned restaurants in Chicago, taking place during Black History Month.
Q: How many restaurants are participating in Chicago Black Restaurant Week?
A: This year, 43 Black-owned restaurants in Chicago are participating in the event.
Q: What types of dishes can I expect to find during Chicago Black Restaurant Week?
A: Participating restaurants will offer a range of dishes, including vegan options, smoothies, specialty teas, caviar, champagne, and more.
Q: How can I learn more about Chicago Black Restaurant Week and its participating restaurants?
A: Visit the official website for more information and a list of participating restaurants.
