CLIFF ROME

Chef Rome has provided a multitude of job opportunities throughout the Chicagoland area via Mise en Place, which is a culinary and hospitality training program that helps at-risk youth obtain jobs in the culinary field, while his Clean Habits custodial program expands career pathways beyond hospitality. In addition, Rome's Joy Institute, recognized by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, extends his vision of education and workforce development. Chef Rome aims to create more opportunities for young people of color and believes that reinvesting in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood will leave a lasting, positive impact that honors the rich history deeply embedded in the community.

With over 30 years of experience in the food service industry, Chef Rome’s culinary career extends from Chicago to Europe, where his journey took him from Paris to Cannes, eventually continuing aboard luxury yachts that enriched his global perspective on food and hospitality.

In 2000, Chef Rome founded Rome’s Joy Companies, which boasts a diverse business portfolio. This includes a brick-and-mortar restaurant called Peach’s on 47th, two grab-and-go concession locations at the University of Chicago, Rome’s Joy Catering (a full-service catering and event planning company), RJC Sausage (a chicken sausage manufacturer), Parkway Social (a coworking space and historic event facility), Blanc (a fine arts gallery), and Rome and a Day Productions (a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization), all located in the heart of Chicago's Bronzeville community.

In the industry, Chef Rome has received numerous awards and recognition from local, national, and international media. He has partnered with organizations such as After School Matters, Ada S. McKinley, Chicago Cook Workforce, Growing Home, Grow Greater Englewood, Chicago Gourmet, Chicago Chefs Cook, Chicago Public Schools, and Washburne Culinary School. He has also established strong employment pathways with the University of Chicago, University of Illinois Chicago, Northwestern University, Sodexo Magic, Culinare, and Chartwells. In addition, he serves on the advisory board of Washburne Culinary School and on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Restaurant Association.

Chef Rome continues to expand his impact through a partnership between Rome’s Joy Companies and Bon Appétit Management Company. Together, they have launched BAMJoy, which now leads food service operations at the Obama Presidential Center. This collaboration brings together deep local roots and world-class hospitality to create a dining experience that reflects the South Side’s culture, history, and future.

Certifications: Illinois Business Enterprise Program, Minority Business Enterprise, ACDBE – U.S. Department of Transportation