Speakers 2026
The education opportunities at Catersource + The Special Event feature presentations from more than 100 industry luminaries who have been there, done that, and are armed with content that’s trendy, thought-provoking, and always influential.
Jeffrey Schlissel, Chef, The Bacon Kartel
Introducing Chef Jeffrey Schlissel, affectionately known as Cheffrey or the notorious Kingpin of the Bacon Cartel! With over 30 years in the culinary arena, Chef Schlissel's journey began innocently enough, cooking alongside his mother, only to evolve into a lifelong odyssey of gastronomic adventures. Renowned for his prowess in crafting delectable dishes that blend Pan Asian Floribbean influences—a fusion he fondly dubs "Floribbeanasian"—the Kingpin thrives on infusing locally sourced and sustainable ingredients into his culinary creations.
Notably, he's even delved into the realm of modern cuisine, mastering the art of smoking and, believe it or not, conjuring up the most tantalizing VEGAN bone marrow! Hailing from the vibrant culinary landscape of South Florida, Chef Schlissel's palate was shaped by the bold, fiery flavors of Latin cuisine and the sweet, tropical symphonies of the region. The result? A harmonious dance of flavors that promises a Zen-like experience for your taste buds.
With a diverse background spanning corporate restaurants, independent eateries, hotels, and country clubs, the Kingpin has left his mark on the culinary world. A seasoned presenter at the National Convention of the American Culinary Federation, he advocates for sustainable practices and collaborates with local farmers to elevate the quality of ingredients while minimizing waste.
For Chef Schlissel, smoking food isn't just a cooking technique—it's a primal ritual that brings people together around the flames, sparking conversations and kindling connections to simpler times. Achieving that perfect balance in the smoker to produce culinary perfection is his ultimate quest! Among his accolades, the Kingpin has reigned as the President of the Palm Beach Chefs Association and earned prestigious titles such as Best Asian Fusion Restaurant in 2012 and Cutting Edge Chef of 2016. His culinary prowess was further recognized with the Chef of the Year award in 2017 and the prestigious 2021 Presidential Medallion from the National President of the American Culinary Federation.
When he's not ruling the kitchen, you can catch Chef Schlissel co-hosting on Apple, "The Walk-in Talk," serving up a delicious blend of culinary insights, humor, and perhaps a dash of bacon-infused mischief. So, if you're craving a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary, join the Kingpin on his flavorful escapade—!