Michael Walls

Michael Walls is an experienced Operations and Beverage Consultant at Synergy Restaurant Consultants, based in Chicago, IL. He brings over 15 years of operations experience to the Synergy team, along with a Level 2 Cicerone Certification and formal culinary arts education.1

Professional Background

Mike's career in the hospitality industry is extensive and diverse:

• He has managed and opened restaurants under the standards of sports superstars Michael Jordan and Mike Ditka.1
• He has experience managing fast-casual concepts like Belly Q and Urban Belly under celebrity chef Bill Kim.1
• Prior to joining Synergy, he worked as a Restaurant Manager for Cornerstone Restaurant Group and as a Beverage and Service Manager at Mike Ditka's Oakbrook Terrace.1

Education and Certifications

• Associate's Degree in Culinary Art from College of DuPage1
• Diplome en Cuisine Francoise from l'Ecole des Trois Ponts in Riorges, France1
• Level 2 Cicerone Certification1

Expertise and Specializations

Mike specializes in:

• Creating and developing well-rounded hospitality systems
• Fostering an atmosphere of learning, personal and professional growth
• Collaborating with local farmers, brewers, and distillers
• Piloting popular one-off beer productions with various brewing companies1

His approach emphasizes community support and adding depth to menus and beverage lists through local collaborations.1