DUNNING — To celebrate what would have been the 106th birthday of Eli’s Cheesecake founder Eli Schulman, his namesake bakery will give away free slices of the Chicago dessert tradition Friday.
Schulman created what he called Chicago-style cheesecake in 1980 while running the kitchen of his Gold Coast steak restaurant. Richer and creamier than its New York counterpart, baked on an all-butter cookie crust, instead of a graham one, the dessert was an instant hit and now a Chicago classic.
To celebrate Schulman's Jan. 22, 1910 birthday, a weekend of events are scheduled at the Dunning bakery and cafe where the sweet treats are whipped up, company officials said. The business is now run by Marc Schulman, the founder's son.
A cheesecake decorating party will take place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday at the bakery, 6701 W. Forest Preserve Drive.
The celebration will continue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, with cheesecake bingo taking place from 11 a.m. to noon, and from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday with free Cheesecake Mini-Dippers.
For more information, call 773-736-3417 or go to elicheesecake.com.
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