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Illinois Central College Culinary Program to Host Acclaimed Chef David Burke

by Jennifer Isbell

East Peoria, IL (10/19/2026) — The Illinois Central College Culinary Arts Management program will welcome acclaimed chef and restaurateur David Burke on Thursday, Oct. 22, for a special culinary demonstration with students and industry professionals at Dogwood Hall, 5407 N. University St., on the Peoria campus.

Beginning at 11 a.m., Burke will tour the ICC culinary facility before presenting a demonstration in the program's demonstration kitchen. Culinary students and industry professionals will have the opportunity to observe his techniques and learn from one of the industry's most accomplished chefs.

Recognized as a leader in modern American cuisine, Burke is an internationally acclaimed chef, restaurateur, author, educator, and culinary innovator. He is the only American chef to earn the prestigious Meilleurs Ouvriers de France Diplome d'Honneur and is a recipient of the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef: New York award. Throughout his career, he has operated award-winning restaurants, developed patented culinary innovations, authored cookbooks, and appeared on national television, including Top Chef Masters.

Students will also showcase culinary creations for guests, highlighting the hands-on learning opportunities that define the ICC nationally accredited culinary program.

"We're excited to have Chef Burke on campus to share this experience with our students," said Chef Charles Robertson, professor and chair of the ICC Culinary Arts Management program. "It's not every day they get to learn from someone with his level of experience. Opportunities like this help students see what's possible in the culinary industry."

Local media are invited to attend. Photography and videography will be permitted.

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Chef David Burke

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