Independent Distributor,
Serving Independent Operators
FRESH IDEAS, FRESH PRODUCTS & FRESH SOLUTIONS
Van Eerden Foodservice is a fourth-generation, family owned broadline foodservice distributor in Grand Rapids, Michigan & Fort Wayne, Indiana. Our high-touch philosophy, combined with our extensive line of products has allowed us to serve businesses throughout the Midwest for over 100 years.
At the VanEerden Food Show you'll discover Fresh Ideas, Fresh Products & Fresh Solutions - and get the best deals of the year.
The Power of Protein:
Shrimp 3 Ways
Chef April Madden, Glendarin Hills
12:30pm - 1:00pm
Explore The Power of Protein: Shrimp Three Ways, a live culinary demo highlighting shrimp’s versatility across the menu. See how one protein can drive appetizers, salads, and entrées, featuring dishes like Grilled Shrimp & Andouille Skewers, Chili Crisp Shrimp Wontons, Mediterranean Shrimp Salad, and classic Shrimp Scampi.
Global Flavors, Smashed
Chef Christian VanDerPuy, Core Foodservice, Corporate Chef, Chain Accounts, Midwest
9:30am - 10:00am
1:30pm - 2:00pm
Experience Global Flavors, Smashed, a high-energy culinary demo putting a worldwide spin on the classic smashburger. Chef Christian VanDerPuy will show how bold global ingredients elevate a familiar favorite, featuring Elote, Teriyaki, and Italian Smashburgers with layered, crave-worthy flavors. This session offers fresh inspiration for creating globally inspired burgers that feel approachable, on-trend, and menu-ready.
10:30am - 11:00am
Live Demonstrations at the
"Big Idea" Culinary Stage
Visit our Main Culinary Stage at the center of the show floor
to discover Fresh Ideas, Fresh Products & Fresh Solutions.
Recipe, Remixed
Chef EJ, Van Eerden Foodservice
9:30am - 10:00am
Join us for Recipe, Remixed, a high-energy culinary demo celebrating creativity and Midwest flavor. Van Eerden’s Executive Chef EJ starts with classic Crispy Pork Tenderloin and Midwest Meatloaf, then remixes them into bold variations like Indiana BBQ Pit, Hoosier Hot Honey, and Steakhouse Au Poivre - delivering practical ideas to elevate comfort-food favorites.
Speed Scratch Sweets
Chef Paige, Van Eerden Foodservice
9:30am - 10:00am
10:30am - 11:00am
Discover how to elevate dessert menus with Speed Scratch Sweets, a live culinary demo focused on big flavor and smart shortcuts. Van Eerden’s Chef Paige will highlight labor-saving dessert components transformed into crave-worthy creations, including Tropical Cheesecake with Pineapple Salted Caramel Glaze and Honey Peach Cobbler - designed to keep prep simple and margins strong.
AI x Culinary
Chef EJ & Chef Paige, Van Eerden Foodservice
10:30am - 11:00am
11:30am - 12:00pm
Explore the future of foodservice with AI x Culinary: The Future of Food. Join Chef EJ and Chef Paige for a live, unscripted demo showcasing how AI can inspire creativity, streamline ideation, and shape what’s next in food. Watch technology and culinary expertise collide on stage—no printed recipes, just real-time inspiration, with follow-up recipes shared on social after the show.
Culinary Action Stations
Visit all four of our Culinary Action Stations throughout the show
floor to gain recipe inspiration and learn about new products & trends.
Tavern Style Pizzas
& Hand-Tossed Pizzas
Root Beer Mocktails
Featuring Dogs n Suds Root Beer
Nashville Hot Brussels
& Root Vegetable Fries
Classic Smashburger
& Steakburger with Aioli
Vote for your Favorite Vendor
Click below to vote for your favorite vendor in three unique categories:
Best Booth Design, Best Taste & Best Overall Experience.
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