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Back by popular demand, we are thrilled to welcome Elaina Vazquez Konstant back to Suite Escape. A visionary chef, entrepreneur, and community builder, Elaina’s story is one of bold leaps, creative reinvention, and the pursuit of dreams that don’t just stop at the horizon.
From her early culinary training at the Culinary Institute of America to working in the kitchens of legends like Joël Robuchon, Elaina forged her own path as the founder of Boutique Bites, redefining event dining in Chicago. She went on to create Towne & Oak, the beloved Winnetka café and event space that has become a local institution, known not only for its fresh, modern flavors but also for the way it brings people together
Elaina’s journey is far from finished. Today, she continues to grow Towne & Oak as a gathering place while also setting her sights on what’s next, exploring new opportunities to connect food, design, and community. And like so many women, she has navigated these professional leaps alongside the ever-evolving seasons of life, learning to balance her ambition and drive with the realities of family life, and modeling what it looks like to thrive in both.
Over lunch, Elaina will reflect on:
The Art of Reinvention – Lessons from evolving from fine dining to entrepreneurship, and from catering to café culture.
Leading with Vision – How to dream big, build boldly, and navigate uncertainty with grit and humor.
Work/Life Balance – The personal strategies, mantras, and mindset shifts that keep her grounded through growth and change.
What’s Next – A look at the future of Towne & Oak, her ongoing entrepreneurial journey, and the dreams still to come.
At Suite Escape, we believe women’s stories are catalysts for inspiration and connection, and Elaina’s journey is one that continues to unfold. Join us for this lively and candid conversation with Elaina, who reminds us that sometimes the most important ingredients for success are creativity, courage and the drive to persevere through life’s unexpected turns.