What does a real vendor relationship actually look like?
In Episode 193, Mike Lombardi, third-generation seafood distributor behind a 65-year family business, joins Chef Stephen Hicks in studio for a conversation that goes far beyond product and price.
This episode dives into what really drives long-term success in the restaurant industry, trust, accountability, and understanding the pressure on both sides of the line.
From early mornings on the docks to high-pressure moments in the kitchen, Mike shares what it means to stay close to the source, build relationships with fishermen, and guide chefs with real-time market insight. Chef Hicks brings the operator perspective, breaking down how the right partners create confidence, consistency, and the ability to push beyond expectations.
This is a conversation about more than seafood.
It's about legacy, decision-making, and the kind of trust that only gets built over time.
🎥 In the studio, Chef Hicks prepares two standout dishes:
• Grouper with Sweet Corn Purée, Succotash, Spherified BBQ, and Butter Poached King Crab
• Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs with Caviar and Chives
Real product. Real relationships. Real conversation.
BRAND PARTNERS
Metro Foodservice Solutions
https://www.metro.com
Commercial-grade storage, transport, and workflow systems trusted across professional kitchens.
RAK Porcelain USA
https://www.rakporcelain.com
Professional tableware engineered for durability and presentation.
Citrus America
https://www.citrusamerica.com
Premium citrus solutions supporting chefs, retailers, and distributors.
Crab Island Seafood
https://crabislandseafood.com
Florida-based supplier delivering responsibly sourced seafood to foodservice partners.
Testo North America
https://www.testo.com/en-US
Precision measurement and food safety solutions for professional kitchens.
Franki
https://www.getfranki.com
A platform connecting restaurants with high-intent diners through real experiences and user-generated content.
CAUSE PARTNERS
The Burnt Chef Project
https://www.theburntchefproject.com
Advocating for mental health awareness in the hospitality industry.
Operation BBQ Relief
https://operationbbqrelief.org
Providing meals to communities impacted by natural disasters.
Sustainable Supperclub
https://www.sustainablesupperclub.com
Pop-up dining experiences focused on sustainability and food access.
TRADE SHOW & INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Florida Restaurant Show
https://www.therestaurantshows.com/florida/
New York Restaurant Show
https://www.therestaurantshows.com/new-york/
California Restaurant Show
https://www.therestaurantshows.com/california/
Pizza Tomorrow Summit
https://www.pizzatomorrow.com/
U.S. Culinary Open
https://www.usculinaryopen.com/About
Creative Loafing Tampa Bay
https://www.cltampa.com
ABOUT WALK-IN TALK MEDIA
Walk-In Talk Media is an industry-recognized B2B food and hospitality media company focused on chef-driven storytelling and real conversations inside the business of food.
