Food can provide both a way to celebrate and a reason. National Dumpling Day, celebrated on September 26, is a great example. Recognizing the growing popularity of dumplings, the Metz 
Culinary Management team at Westfield Insurance in Westfield Center, OH, celebrated the day by providing guests with an innovative, “build-your-own” dumpling bowl offering in the company dining hall.
As the facility’s general manager, Chef Phil Hudak explained, this menu enhancement allowed guests to exercise their own culinary creativity. “To build their bowl, they started with juicy vegetable dumplings, then piled on the toppings they wanted. Our selection included bok choy, kimchi, roasted shiitake mushrooms, snow peas, red peppers, and carrots. For protein, they could add chicken or shrimp.” The complete combination was served in a pho broth.
According to Chef Phil, the inspiration for the dumpling menu option came from Metz’s Director of Culinary, Chef John Selick. “Chef John was working with the vendor who supplies our noodles. They had a dumpling, basically a potsticker, that he wanted to develop for National Dumpling Day.”
The concept proved very successful, with about 60 dumpling bowls sold in the one-day promotion. According to Chef Phil, “Our guests like to take lunch back to their desks. And on the way back to their desk, other people would see it, smell it, and ask about it. Then they’d come down for a taste. So we had the benefit of ‘word of nose.’ We also allowed folks to sample before buying.”
The concept also benefited from a demographic shift in the Westfield workforce. “A younger generation just out of college who are adventurous and curious about food is joining Westfield, inspiring us to offer them new options,” Chef Phil said, adding that the additional international dishes haven’t replaced the more traditional American choices.
With its success on National Dumpling Day, the innovative dumpling menu enhancement will find a place in other Metz-managed dining facilities. Guests won’t have to wait till next September 26 to get a taste.