Michael Symon's Festive Dark Chocolate Bark Brings Chef-Driven Indulgence to Workplace Dining

Workplaces across the country are receiving a gourmet holiday treat this season through a new collaboration between James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Symon and Kitchen Works by Sodexo. The limited-edition Festive Dark Chocolate Bark, available at all Kitchen Works locations nationwide, represents a significant shift in how companies approach workplace dining and employee experience programs.

The chocolate bark features melted dark chocolate studded with toasted pistachios, dried cherries, and salt flakes, drawing inspiration from Symon's Greek and Sicilian heritage. Chef Symon explained the cultural influences behind the creation, noting that his mother's baklava loaded with pistachios inspired his dessert preferences. This culinary offering reflects a broader movement toward bringing restaurant-quality experiences into workplace settings.

Joe Ganci, President of Sodexo Corporate Services, North America, emphasized the strategic importance of such collaborations. At Kitchen Works, we believe the workplace cafe can be so much more than a place to grab lunch. It's a space for connection, community, and food that fuels you, Ganci stated. This perspective highlights how food service providers are redefining their role in corporate environments beyond mere sustenance to become contributors to workplace culture and employee satisfaction.

The partnership between Symon and Kitchen Works, which began in 2024, has already produced several popular menu items including Smokey Cherry Pork Grits, Juicy Lucy Double Cheese and Bacon Burger, and the Symon Says Meatball. These chef-driven offerings represent Kitchen Works' mission to transform everyday moments into meaningful experiences for the people we serve, as described by Ganci. The company's approach focuses on balancing flavor, wellness, and convenience while elevating the standard workplace dining experience.

For more information about Kitchen Works, visit https://us.sodexo.com/brands/kitchen-works.

The significance of this development extends beyond seasonal treats. As companies increasingly recognize the connection between workplace amenities and employee retention, partnerships with celebrity chefs like Symon demonstrate how food service providers are adapting to meet evolving workplace expectations. The Festive Dark Chocolate Bark serves as both a practical holiday indulgence for busy workers and a symbol of the growing emphasis on quality-of-life improvements in corporate settings. This trend reflects broader changes in workplace culture where employers are investing in experiences that foster community and improve daily work life, potentially influencing employee satisfaction and productivity during the demanding holiday season.