Chef Erling Wu-Bower
A passion for city-inspired flavors
As the driving force behind Maxwells Trading, Chef Erling Wu-Bower brings extensive culinary experience and passion for bold flavors to the heart of Chicago. As a first-generation Chinese American, he harnesses his experiences growing up in Chicago and New York to create an exceptional dining experience.
James Beard Award
Best Chef: Great Lakes
Finalist, 2025 Maxwells Trading
Creating Iconic Restaurants
Co-Founder & Chef Partner
Underscore Hospitality
James Beard Award
Best Chef: Great Lakes
Finalist, 2015-2017 Nico Osteria
Learn how Chef Erling Wu-Bower relies on Vollrath to help bring his culinary vision to life. Tribute® cookware, induction ranges, steam table pans, and smallwares all were carefully selected to ensure consistency and efficiency in Maxwells Trading’s bustling environment.
“For high volume, high intensity, busy restaurants, there's nothing better than Vollrath.”
Erling Wu-Bower - Maxwells Trading
Chef Wu-Bower's Go-To Products
James Beard finalist Erling Wu-Bower sits down with Kyle Cherek to talk food philosophy, the future of the restaurant industry, and his favorite kitchen tools.
Chef Wu-Bower's Inspiration
Why Chef Erling Wu-Bower Relies on Vollrath for High-Performance Cooking
See how Chicago chef Erling Wu-Bower brings his culinary vision to life with the help of Vollrath.
Re-thinking Restaurants
Chef Erling Wu-Bower, partner at Underscore Hospitality Group in Chicago, Illinois, joins the show to discuss the challenges that come with opening restaurants.
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