With a focus on small business and industry support, UTILITY will host a live pitch competition with a cash grant to one winning restaurant, cafe, bar or food truck concept. The 3 finalists will pitch LIVE in Chicago on May 17-18th, 2026 in front of a panel of industry experts and icons who will judge and award the grand prize.

GET YOUR BUSINESS PLAN READY, SUBMISSIONS FOR 2026 OPENING SOON!!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Entry period ends 4/27/2026 or upon receipt of the 300th eligible submission. See full rules here

Throughout the show’s floor, UTILITY will showcase a roster of highly-curated vendors, focusing on emerging and established businesses that cater to the hospitality industry. Exhibitor categories include Cookware, Food & Beverage, Tabletop, Tech, Footwear, and more. The show’s guests of chefs, key industry players and food media brands will have a chance to interact with each exhibitor booth as they walk through the venue.

Guaranteed to be a guest favorite again, last year we tattooed over 100 guests in a few short hours. Great Lakes Tattoo (the industry fave) will set up shop in the mezzanine offering a selection of flash designs.

Each day you can learn and listen to hospitality industry leaders as they discuss topics relating to the state of the industry. Panels are presented and curated by the Independent Restaurant Coalition and the Southern Smoke Foundation.

Check back soon for updates on next year's cookoff events!

The show will highlight exclusive baked treats from some of the city’s favorite pastry chefs and top restaurants.

A comfortable lounge reimagined as a dive bar with comfortable seating.  A space to grab a spirited or NA beverage catch up with friends and play a few rounds of bar games.