ABOUT

Felipe Ospina epitomizes the essence of hospitality—a driving force behind restaurants' refinement and enhanced profitability. Born in Bogota and having lived in vibrant cities like Miami, New York, and Chicago, he brings a diverse cultural perspective to his work. With an impressive track record of spearheading openings for around 25 establishments in Chicago, Felipe has honed his expertise under the tutelage of exceptional mentors. He excels in the art of concept creation, agile pivoting, and relentless pursuit of progress.

In his role as Business Developer at Sysco Corporation, Felipe collaborates closely with top-tier chefs and operators, contributing significantly to enriching Chicago's vibrant culinary landscape. His multifaceted skill set encompasses creativity, marketing acumen, financial savvy, operational finesse, and the ability to craft enticing food and beverage programs.

What truly distinguishes Felipe is his unparalleled problem-solving finesse. He adeptly leverages his diverse talents and extensive experiences to propel projects to unprecedented levels of success. Beyond the realm of professional triumphs, Felipe's core values revolve around cultivating enduring friendships. His aspirations extend far beyond business metrics, aiming to foster lifelong connections and meaningful relationships.

As a Level One Sommelier, Felipe brings a refined understanding of wine to his work, enhancing the dining experience for patrons and colleagues alike. His commitment to ongoing learning and professional development underscores his dedication to excellence in all aspects of hospitality.

Felipe's dedication to the industry extends to his involvement in the Illinois Restaurants Association Pro Start competition, where he has been an active participant and committee member for the past 15 years. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talent underscores his passion for fostering growth and innovation within the industry.

Outside of his dynamic career in hospitality, Felipe is an active participant in several charitable endeavors, including Pilot Light Chefs and Sister Cities Chicago. His commitment to giving back to the community underscores his dedication to making a positive impact beyond the confines of his professional sphere.

Amidst his busy schedule, Felipe finds joy in embracing life's diverse experiences. Whether he's experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, hitting the pavement for a run, lifting weights at the gym, or exploring new destinations around the globe, he cherishes moments spent with loved ones, especially when sharing laughter over a cherished dish—particularly a well-made lasagna.