Steak News: Gene and Georgetti

One of the most storied, timeworn steakhouses in Chicago and the country, Gene and Georgetti maintains its vitality in the city's dining scene through a solid formula of family-run business, impeccable steaks, and a strong sense of community. And just because the steakhouse isn't flashy, new, and modern doesn't mean it can't break new ground in its own ways. Case in point, Gene and Georgetti recently announced a new full-time role for Michelle Durpetti, daughter of owners Tony and Marion Durpetti, as well as a November promotion in support of adoption. 

(Gene and Georgetti family)

 

Gene and Georgetti gets a lot of its venerable cred from its familial foundation. Co-founded by Gene Michelotti in 1941, the legendary steakhouse has gone on to solidify itself as a family-run institution in Chicago. Now run by second generation Tony and Marion Durpetti, the couple have announced their daughter Michelle (Michelotti's granddaughter) is joining the business full-time. Fresh off her own event planning firm, Michelle Durpetti Events, Michelle has decided the time was right to join the family legacy and become a part of its future as the restaurant nears its 75th anniversary. 

 

An esteemed event planner, responsible for such successful fetes as the Green Tie Ball and the Fiera Italiana, Michelle is handily equipped to do her part at the family restaurant. She's also proven her mettle as a top-notch wedding planner, named "Best Of" wedding planner by The Knot in 2014 and having curated weddings featured in the likes of Chicago Social Brides and Chicago Style Weddings. She'll continue to produce weddings and events under her new title at Gene and Georgetti. Another important rung in Michelle's impressive career ladder is her volunteer work, which she has done extensively, having raised more than $350,000 in 2014 alone for non-profits. Wish Upon a Wedding is an apropos one she's been involved with, which provides weddings and vow renewals for couples facing terminal illness.

Speaking of volunteering, this marks an apt segue into November, wherein Gene and Georgetti is supporting National Adoption Month by donating a portion of proceeds from all dessert sales to Hepzibah Children's Assocation in Oak Park. These group homes are where abused and neglected children go to be safe and secure away from dangerous situations. Family services here help to bolster family bonds and create solid foundations and support systems for children. So eat up.

- Matt Kirouac