Vans continues to foster the creative culture of the food industry by partnering with celebrated Chef Paul Kahan, and One Off Hospitality Group to showcase a footwear capsule, in conjunction with four of their Chicago restaurants: Publican Quality Meats, avec, Blackbird and Dove’s Luncheonette. A special event to highlight Kahan’s culinary creativity is set for April 1 at House of Vans Chicago and will raise money toward Pilot Light, a non-profit organization of which Kahan is a founding member.
Kahan’s accolades are many and Vans is proud to partner with the chef on a four-piece capsule that includes premium versions of Vans’ Classic silhouettes. The Old Skool, Sk8-Hi and Classic Slip-On highlight colorways that are drawn directly from each restaurant’s aesthetic. A grey Old Skool speaks to the effortless Mediterranean style avec employs, while the Sk8-Hi highlights the diner setting of Dove’s Luncheonette, blending a retro and modern design to compliment the restaurant. The Classic Slip-On takes on design features from Publican Quality Meats and Blackbird with subtle pops of color that coordinate with their iconic logos. Each style features a contoured drop-in Vans UltraCush™ footbed for all-day maximum comfort, Vansguard™ canvas uppers to repel water, as well as dirt and slip-resistant, vulcanized lugged outsoles.
“I’ve worn Vans my whole life, and feel that skaters, cooks and musicians share a lot of culture and creativity. I’m excited to be part of that,” Kahan said. Despite accolades and adoration, Kahan’s biggest accomplishment remains his work as a mentor for young chefs. He works to foster empowerment, providing the resources necessary to grow, both as a chef and person.
To highlight the importance of food education, House of Vans Chicago will host an event, complete with a raffle, to raise awareness toward Pilot Light. Pilot Light, a nonprofit organization that helps children make healthier choices by connecting the lessons they learn in their classrooms to the foods they eat on their lunch trays, at home and in their communities, directly works with local Chicago schools and provides an interactive way for children to learn about the importance of nutrition. The funds from the raffle will be used to support Pilot Light programming at local school, Mitchell Elementary, from now throughout 2018. In addition, House of Vans Chicago will host a performance by post-punk band, Preoccupations, which is open to public with RSVP at houseofvans.com.
“Vans’ ethos is driven by creative expression and our brand has been lucky enough to partner with a wide range of creative individuals that bring the ‘Off The Wall’ meaning to life,” said Doug Palladini, Vans Global Brand President. “Chefs like Paul exemplify creativity and Vans is honored to support his work in educating our youth that creative avenues exist through all professions.”
Chef Paul Kahan is passionately seasonal, unconventionally creative and dedicated to the inspiration of classical cuisine. Kahan has received international acclaim for Blackbird, avec, The Publican, Big Star, Publican Quality Meats, Nico Osteria, Dove’s Luncheonette, Publican Quality Bread, Publican Tavern O’Hare and most recently, Publican Anker. Kahan has earned the praise of many who claim him to be one of America’s most influential working chefs.
more pics after the jump
