Dan “Poppie” Mastantuono Sr. worked for the University Club of Chicago before starting his own business in 1946. He was a familiar face at the Fulton Market for years, and was once featured on local television in that setting. His biggest honor was to be blessed by the Pope when the company prepared the only formal dinner for the Papal entourage upon their visit to Chicago. He loved coming in to work until he passed way at the age of 87 in 1986.

Dan Mast, second generation and executive chef / consultant emeritus, took culinary courses at Perdue University and the Culinary Institute of America. Mast also studied pastry, chocolate making and ice carving under John Zenker (famed pastry check and best known for making President Kennedy’s birthday cake). He is one of the founders, and past president, of the International Caterers Association. He and third generation Kathy, Mark, Craig and Laura work to continue what “Poppie” founded.

James Slaughter, seen here with Craig Mast, arrive the same time as the Beatles in 1964. The former food technician with R.L. Kraft Company has been Dan’s right hand man and embraced family member ever since. Slaughter took courses at the Culinary Institute of America. Slaughter retired in 2007.

Elliott McCarty, chef, received his degree at The Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago. He also was a chef at the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Park City, UT.