The January issue of Feast is dedicated to the people who help shape the way we eat – the Tastemakers who are changing the culinary landscape of the Midwest. In the past 12 months, we’ve seen national culinary trends such as ramen shops, craft distilling and Southern-inspired fare on the upswing locally, as well as fast-casual concepts, convenience-driven food services and artisan-made products increasing in number. More than ever, culinary entrepreneurs are also investing in how customers engage with and experience their brand, whether through specialized and locally crafted interiors or expert digital and social-media communities. And for those who have already built thriving brands, regional expansion has allowed their business models to flourish in new markets.
