Jimmy Bannos Jr., (Chef/Partner, The Purple Pig) a fourth generation restaurateur, was 'born and raised' in Chicago's Heaven on Seven. Put to work bussing tables for his father at age five, Jimmy learned the trade first hand while spending days at the family-owned Louisiana style restaurant. 

Although raised on gumbo, Jimmy let his passion (and his palate) guide him to more Mediterranean styles of cuisine. He soon embarked on a six-month excursion to Italy, and immersed himself in the culture and cuisine. Upon returning to the states, he moved to New York City. There he spent three and a half years working under Mario Batali at his Del Posto, Lupa Osteria Romana and Esca restaurants.

Jimmy returned to Chicago in 2009, bringing his love for Italian food, the restaurant business and his family to become Chef/Partner of The Purple Pig, offering cheese, swine and wine at 500 North Michigan Avenue. 

Don't miss this demo in which he'll showcase his approach to Ricotta Gnocchi with Neckbone Gravy.