ACFLI Hosts a Foodservice and Hospitality Expo
Turning Vision into Reality
In April, the Long Island Culinary Association , in collaboration with the Hospitality News team, successfully launched a groundbreaking Foodservice and Hospitality Expo on Long Island. Despite skepticism regarding the feasibility of organizing such an event within a mere two-month timeframe, it was executed beyond expectations, attracting more exhibitors and attendees than anticipated. The revenue generated exceeded projections, allowing for an unprecedented level of funding for scholarships. The success of this initiative can be attributed to a dedicated committee, including Chef Chris LeVecchia, Chef Anthony Muzia —recently honored as Chef of the Year by the ACFLI— Ed Daniels , publisher of Hospitality News, and Chef Andrew Greene , who tirelessly worked daily to ensure its success. Their relentless efforts ensured that every detail was meticulously managed, from securing speakers and food trucks to coordinating presenters and registration. All ACFLI board members involved in this endeavor demonstrated unwavering commitment to its success.
Nancy Kombert and Spiro Giannakoulopoulo s, President and Vice President of the ACFLI, respectively somewhat skeptical themselves, entrusted the committee with autonomy, to forge ahead with this first-of-a-kind expo for Long Island. While the ACFLI was mostly focused on the annual gala, the expo committee, along with Gabriela and Carol from the Hospitality News team, managed to deliver to the Culinary community of Long Island an expo to remember. Already on the drawing board is the planning of next year’s expo, which, of course, is projected to be twice the size with twice the revenue.
Hospitality News / LI Edition / August 2026 / Page 32
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