PB&J Pit Stops: Chicago Restaurant Secrets from Dimmi Dimmi
Pull up a stool at Dimmi Dimmi in Chicago, where Chef Bill Kim runs a kitchen that knows exactly what works. In our first episode of PB&J Pit Stops, we get real talk about equipment that stands up to daily use – Desco pasta cookers, Winston CVAPs, and American Range stove tops . No fluff, just the gear that keeps high-volume service humming and chefs in control.
About Dimmi Dimmi
Dimmi Dimmi (“tell me, tell me” in Italian) captures the spirit of the neighborhood corner spot – loud, warm, a little nosy, and full of love. Located at 1112 W Armitage Ave in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, this modern Italian-American restaurant from Cornerstone Restaurant Group serves red-sauce classics with a wink, house-made pastas with flair, tavern-style pizzas, and cocktails that go down dangerously easy.
Chef Matt Eckfeld—veteran of Michelin-starred kitchens in Europe, Carbone and ZZ’s Clam Bar in New York, and Chicago spots like Urbanbelly under Bill Kim – brings Chicago-Italian soul to the menu. Think in-house giardiniera, sausages from local Slagel Farms, beef carpaccio inspired by Italian beef, and family-style dishes perfect for sharing. It’s the kind of place where stories flow like wine, portions invite passing plates around the table, and the vibe keeps locals coming back.
Kitchen Talk: Desco Pasta Cooker Love
We rolled up to Dimmi Dimmi ready to dig into their equipment choices, and Desco pasta cookers quickly became the star. It’s a spec they use across all their restaurants – a heavy-duty workhorse built for demanding, high-volume environments.
What stands out most? The reliable support. Chef Bill appreciates being able to call for advice or maintenance without hassle. When they need a pasta cooker, Desco is the automatic go-to – longevity and performance you can trust day in, day out.
American Range: The Integration-Ready Workhorse
Dimmi Dimmi’s small kitchen runs repetitive menu items all day long, and their first American Range is holding strong. Chef Bill calls it a standout from day one – no breakdowns, just consistent performance through heavy daily use.
In tight spaces where volume tests every piece of equipment, American Range proves it’s built for the grind. Reliable results without drama make it a quick favorite.
Winston CVAP: The Consistency King
Winston CVAP earned its spot at Dimmi Dimmi for one reason: warmer, cooker, consistency. It gives chefs control across full-service or fast-casual setups, no matter the pace.
After nearly 15 years and more CVAPs than anywhere else in Chicago, the collaboration with Winston shines. Operators come to them for advice, and troubleshooting is just a call away – real comfort in a busy kitchen.
Take Control Like Dimmi Dimmi
Dimmi Dimmi’s story shows what happens when you spec equipment built for real kitchen demands. Desco takes the daily beating. American Range handles repetition. Winston locks in consistency. And reps who actually pick up the phone? That’s the game-changer.
Ready to find your go-to specs? Connect with PB&J Reps to talk Desco, Winston, American Range, or whatever your kitchen needs: pbjreps.com/contact
