Chefs Hunter & Kelly Manzo

It all started with …

Hunter & Kelly met the first day of culinary school in Chicago, IL at Kendall College, from where they each hold A.A.S. in Culinary arts, trained in the Classic French cooking method. Both graduated at the top of their class, and worked in the finest restaurants in Chicago for two years. Together they owned and operated a gourmet farm-to-table catering company, where their responsibilities included multiple course gourmet meals and service, often for parties of 50+ people. In 2010 they began their own gourmet spice business, selling high quality spices at trade shows, fairs, and other major events around the country.

We started A Pop Above Kettle Corn as an addition to their growing event concession business. Their culinary and event experience helped contribute to the success of A Pop Above as they strive to create a popcorn business focused on delivering top quality gourmet popcorn to their customers. Despite vast competition, they have managed to distinguish their business with high quality standards, impressive displays and showmanship, and engaged marketing efforts. Their mission relating to popcorn is to grow at a pace that allows them to maintain quality and control while expanding their customer base. Ultimately, Hunter & Kelly are working towards owning & operating a fleet of mobile concession vehicles utilizing today’s technology to foster a strong web presence for online sales & shipping, as well customer service.