Ari Bendersky

Ari Bendersky is a seasoned Chicago-based lifestyle journalist with over two decades of experience in the field. His expertise spans across food, wine, music, and travel, and he is recognized for his deep understanding of the restaurant business, wine industry, and the evolving cultural trends within the hospitality sector. As the former founding editor of Eater Chicago, Bendersky has made significant contributions to the media landscape, and his work has been featured in prestigious publications such as the New York Times, WSJ magazine, Associated Press, Men's Journal, Wine Enthusiast, Departures, RollingStone.com, Chicago magazine, and more.

Bendersky's journalistic prowess extends to authorship, having penned "1000 Food & Art Styling Ideas," a visually stunning coffee table book that showcases exquisite food photography. His articles often provide a window into the unique wine experiences offered by establishments in major cities like Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles, and he has covered the emergence of exclusive wine partnerships between restaurants and wineries with a keen eye for detail. His comprehensive guide to Portland, Maine, is a testament to his travel journalism skills, offering readers an insider's look at the city's vibrant culinary scene, local commerce, and cultural attractions.

In addition to his written work, Ari Bendersky is also adept at producing lifestyle videos for a Chicago real estate company, further diversifying his media portfolio. He has chronicled the craft cocktail movement, highlighting influential figures such as Toby Maloney and the trend towards low-alcohol cocktails, including the growing popularity of Spanish vermouth in Chicago. His reporting not only captures the cultural shifts in the beverage industry but also features insights from professionals, thereby influencing readers' perceptions and tastes.