19 East

With a history dating as far back as the 1800’s when the building belonged to The Chicago Illuminating Company, a predecessor of ComEd, the space boasts an urban, contemporary flair and reflects the resurgence of the South Loop neighborhood. Operated under the direction of Marta Michulka since 2004, the venue is noted for premier events including corporate and social, galas, weddings, product launches and film shoots.

19 East is now owned and managed by Food For Thought, Chicago's premium catering company. Marta Michulka will continue to operate the property and venue immediately adjacent at 2110 South Wabash Avenue. It will be marketed under the name of the Chicago Illuminating Company.

“I look forward to working with Food For Thought to leverage special event opportunities that showcase the unique qualities of both venues,” said Michulka.

Nancy Sharp, Food For Thought’s Chief Executive Officer, notes that the acquisition was a natural choice given the resurgence of the city’s Cultural Mile. “South Michigan Avenue has seen an explosion of growth in civic, retail, cultural and business development,” says Sharp. “What were once traditional manufacturing buildings, are now hosting the finest events in the city. We are thrilled to be a part of this South Loop renaissance, which has also attracted many prominent hoteliers and restaurateurs to the neighborhood. The investment into the Cultural Mile is the perfect representation of the Food For Thought brand,” adds Sharp.