DFMi partners with Chef Leyla Wheelhouse for IFSA Global EXPO
Chef Leyla Wheelhouse will showcase inflight entrée innovation with DFMi at IFSA Global EXPO
DFMi has announced its partnership with acclaimed culinary consultant Chef Leyla Wheelhouse for the upcoming IFSA Global EXPO 2025 in Long Beach, California. Together, they will debut an immersive culinary experience designed to showcase the next wave of inflight entrée innovation.
This year’s DFMi pavilion embraces a bold “California Dreamin’” theme, inspired by the state’s vibrant culture and diverse culinary influences—from the retro charm of Palm Springs to the breezy freedom of coastal highways. Wheelhouse will bring this vision to life with a West Coast Food Bar featuring innovative dishes and drinks that highlight DFMi’s premium supplier products.
“Partnering with Chef Leyla is an exciting step in DFMi’s commitment to evolving our culinary offerings,” said Kim Brown, Vice President of Marketing. “Her creativity and expertise will allow us to present trend-forward, approachable dishes that resonate with today’s airline passengers while celebrating the unique flavors of California.”
Throughout the show, Wheelhouse will create all-day culinary engagement through:
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On-trend dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients
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Interactive presentations blending casual approachability with creative culinary techniques
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Signature snacks and drinks designed to create energy and aroma within the pavilion’s tiki bar
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Sustainable practices reinforcing farm-to-table principles and DFMi’s commitment to environmentally conscious solutions
“I am thrilled to collaborate with DFMi at IFSA Expo and highlight the incredible products their suppliers bring to the market,” said Wheelhouse. “This is an opportunity to merge creativity, trend-forward flavors, and sustainability into a truly memorable experience for attendees.”
The DFMi pavilion will also feature engaging thematic spaces, including a midcentury modern lounge, a boardwalk game area and a fire pit-inspired setting.
