Cake Boss, Joseph Joseph visit Chicago

The International Home + Housewares Show, held March 2-5 at McCormick Place, brought some big guns to Chicago.

Among them was Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro, who was the featured event at a March 2 event at Navy Pier. There were several surprises, including guest Rachael Ray and an extremely tall cake in the likeness of Valastro. There were also plenty of sweets—including the drinks, which included a rum raisin shooter and a German chocolate cocktail.

The previous night, Joseph Joseph (founded by twins Antony and Richard Joseph) unveiled its 100 Collection at the Bloomingdale’s Medinah building at 600 N. Wabash Ave. The brothers told Windy City Times that the new collection (which features stainless-steel items) continues the company’s “trademark of innovation with functional products you use every day.”

Others who were at the show included chefs Ming Tsai, Rick Bayless, Stephanie Izard, the Hearty Boys, Gale Gand, Cat Cora, Fabio Viviani, Devin Alexander, Paula Deen and Todd English. Photos by Andrew Davis