Welcome to the Next Generation and Episode 2571 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, McKenna Cassidy speaks with Holly Stout, assistant general manager at Il Carciofo, Chicago. From Michelin-starred roots at La Spiaggia to leading Il Carciofo, she shares how the new generation of hospitality is redefining wine, service, and connection, while staying grounded in what matters most: the guest experience.
More about today’s guest:
Located in the historic Fulton Market district of Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, il Carciofo is a Roman Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from the restaurants and markets in one of Chef Joe’s favorite cities, Rome. We offer a seasonal menu of elevated yet familiar Italian fare with traditional antipasti, Roman-style pizzas, hand-rolled pastas produced daily in a dedicated pasta lab and market-driven mains that highlight the season’s bounty.
Connect:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-stout-a3598510b/
Website: https://www.ilcarciofochicago.com/about/
More about the host:
McKenna found her love of wine while serving in a Napa Valley tasting room. She later graduated from the University of Notre Dame and pursued wine on the East Coast with E. & J. Gallo Winery. She has worked in wine distribution for restaurants and luxury retail stores for the past three years.
Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, McKenna is a Certified Specialist of Wine (2021), Certified Sommelier (2022), and Italian Wine Ambassador (2023). She loves country swing dancing, hosting brunch parties, and sipping Italian wine.
Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mckennacassidy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenna-cassidy-cs-csw-66baa412b/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mckennacassidy
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