Chefs cooking on an outdoor grill.

Nicolet College Hosts Chef Week: Fire, Flavor & Food Trucks April 20-22

April 2, 2026

Nicolet College invites the community to experience an exciting new culinary event, Chef Week: Fire, Flavor & Food Trucks, from April 20 to 22. 

Chef Week is designed for everyone, from restaurant professionals and aspiring chefs to food enthusiasts and families looking for a unique local experience. 

This event brings together nationally recognized chefs, award-winning culinary professionals, and local food entrepreneurs for three days of live demonstrations, hands-on inspiration, and real-world food business insights. 

A highlight of the week will be the Food Truck Rally on Wednesday, April 22 from 1–6 p.m., a family-friendly event that is open to the community. 

“Chef Week is about more than cooking—it’s about creativity, entrepreneurship, and community,” said Ellen Mathein, Dean of the School of Business & Entrepreneurship at Nicolet College. “We wanted to create something that gives people access to incredible culinary talent while also inspiring the next generation of chefs, food truck owners, and hospitality leaders.” 

The cost is $10 per session, and registration is limited to 60 seats per session. The food truck rally is open to everyone, with food available for purchase. 

Event information and registration.

Expert-Led Demonstrations and Sessions 

Throughout the week, attendees will have the opportunity to: 

  • Watch live cooking demonstrations from top chefs  
  • Learn techniques for wood-fired cooking, barbecue, and craft cocktails  
  • Gain insight into launching and growing food-based businesses  
  • Experience the intersection of culinary arts and entrepreneurship  

Featured presenters include: 

  • Luke Zahm, James Beard Award semifinalist and co-owner of Driftless Cafe  
  • Jeff Dixon, craft cocktail expert and owner of Juliett Cocktail Lounge  
  • Mitch Below, Nicolet College Culinary Arts Instructor  
  • Joe Bending, owner of The Wandering Chef  
  • Dillon Carlson, chef and co-owner of The Old Reliable Food Service  
  • Joshua Peters, pitmaster and owner of Shank N Shig BBQ