This holiday season, workplaces across the country are getting a taste of chef-driven indulgence thanks to a new limited-edition creation from nationally acclaimed chef, nine-time cookbook author, and television personality Michael Symon. Michael's Festive Dark Chocolate Bark, crafted exclusively for Kitchen Works by Sodexo, is now available at all Kitchen Works locations nationwide, offering workers a sweet way to savor the season without leaving their workplace.
Chef Symon is deeply influenced by his Greek and Sicilian heritage, as well as his Cleveland upbringing, infusing his dishes with bold flavors and soul. The Festive Dark Chocolate Bark features melted dark chocolate studded with toasted pistachios, dried cherries, and salt flakes. It's ideal for busy workers looking to savor a moment of indulgence during the workday, to bring home as a treat, or a simple way to bring gourmet flair to holiday gatherings.
"Chef Symon continues to elevate what it means to eat well at work," said Joe Ganci, President, Sodexo Corporate Services, North America. "At Kitchen Works, we believe the workplace cafe can be so much more than a place to grab lunch. It's a space for connection, community, and food that fuels you. Collaborations like this one with Chef Symon reflect our commitment to transforming everyday moments into meaningful experiences for the people we serve."
Kitchen Works is known for its chef-driven workplace dining experiences, focusing on bold flavors, nourishing ingredients, and convenient meals that keep employees energized. The Festive Dark Chocolate Bark joins a lineup of seasonal and signature items designed to make eating well easy, even during the busiest time of year.
"The holidays have always been about bringing people together around the table to laugh, cook, and share a great meal. A lot of the dishes I make this time of year are inspired by those big family gatherings growing up in Cleveland," said Chef Michael Symon, Culinary Ambassador for Kitchen Works. "My Greek and Sicilian roots meant there was always food, loud conversation, and a lot of love. My mom makes the most incredible baklava loaded with pistachios, so I've always had a soft spot for them when it comes to dessert, and anyone who knows me knows I'm a total chocolate guy. That's where the idea for Festive Dark Chocolate Bark came from. I hope it brings that same sense of family and community to tables nationwide."
Since partnering with Kitchen Works in 2024, Symon has infused workplace dining with his signature comfort-meets-creativity style through dishes such as Smokey Cherry Pork Grits, Juicy Lucy Double Cheese and Bacon Burger, and the Symon Says Meatball. His latest offering underscores Kitchen Works' mission to redefine on-site dining with chef-inspired, seasonal menus that balance flavor, wellness, and convenience.
This announcement matters because it highlights the growing trend of chef-driven workplace dining, where employers are investing in high-quality food experiences to boost employee satisfaction and retention. The collaboration between a renowned chef and a major food service provider like Sodexo demonstrates how corporate cafes are evolving from basic lunch spots to destinations for gourmet, seasonal offerings that foster community and well-being.
