#United States #Chicago #Chicago Restaurant Week #La Dolce Vita #World Business Chicago

World Business Chicago's New Dining Initiative

Introduction
In an exciting development, World Business Chicago has introduced a unique initiative aimed at transforming how the city's economic narrative is shared. As part of their expansion of the 'Just the Facts' campaign, the organization will kick off its interactive dining concept during Chicago Restaurant Week 2026, held from January 23 to February 8.

Chicago Restaurant Week Experience
The centerpiece of this innovative concept will take place at La Dolce Vita Cucina, a beloved local Italian restaurant located in Portage Park. This dining experience offers not only delectable Italian cuisine but also an engaging game of Chicago Bingo, where diners can connect with appealing facts about the city’s economy and infrastructure while enjoying their meal. Factors such as the city being a top destination for corporate relocations and boasting a diverse $927 billion economy will be shared through this playful concept.

Details of the Dining Experience
Guests at La Dolce Vita Cucina will be treated to a signature dish specially created for this event: The World Business Chicago Pasta. They will also be able to enjoy themed drinks like The Ben Johnson Handshake and The Chi-Town Nitro Negroni. An atmosphere rich in the cultural significance of Chicago will be created, with iconic films that highlight the city’s role as a cultural and economic powerhouse playing throughout the dining area.

Engaging Through Bingo
Diners will receive Bingo cards featuring various clues and facts about Chicago paired with popular menu items. As dining conversations progress, guests can mark off facts or dishes mentioned at their table. Successfully completing a row or column will earn diners a chance to win exciting prizes, including tickets to renowned cultural events and restaurants, thereby reinforcing the campaign's goal to create a deeper connection with the city’s vibrant culture.

Moving Conversations Off-Screen
Andrew Hayes, Vice President of Marketing Communications at World Business Chicago, emphasizes the plan's intent to shift the conversation about Chicago from online platforms into real-life discussions. In an era where misinformation often clouds the city's reputation, this initiative aims to highlight the truth about Chicago’s thriving business environment and diverse ecosystem through genuine storytelling during mealtimes.

Owner's Perspective
David Roa, the owner of La Dolce Vita Cucina, expresses pride in showcasing the vibrant neighborhoods and economic energy that make Chicago unique. He notes that Chicago Restaurant Week presents an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate local cuisine while aligning with World Business Chicago's initiative—all within a communal dining experience.

Future Aspirations
The pilot program will also serve as a model for potentially wider implementations across the city. World Business Chicago is keen to explore how such interactive dining experiences can further engage residents and visitors, enhancing civic pride while promoting local businesses through storytelling. This initiative clearly highlights the potential for food to serve as a means of understanding and connecting with the local economy.

Conclusion
As Chicago Restaurant Week 2026 approaches, both locals and visitors can look forward to a remarkable initiative that not only tantalizes taste buds but also enriches knowledge about the city's economic landscape. This initiative is a celebration of Chicago, its culture, and its incredible culinary offerings. By blending food with facts, World Business Chicago hopes to inspire conversations that highlight the city's strengths and unique character.