[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 120 (Thursday, September 12, 2013)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1313] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHEF'S RESTAURANT ______ HON. BRIAN HIGGINS of new york in the house of representatives Thursday, September 12, 2013 Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 90th anniversary of one of Buffalo's most beloved dining establishments, Chef's Restaurant. In 1923, Chef's Restaurant opened its doors on the corner of Seneca and Chicago, and soon established itself as a fixture in the neighborhood. During the restaurant's early years, a hard-working employee named Lou Billittier began to move his way up the ranks. Beginning as a dishwasher and busboy, Lou was promoted to a waiter. Eventually, he earned the title of restaurant manager. By 1950, Lou had become co-owner of Chef's. Four years later, he stood proudly as the sole owner of the neighborhood staple. For over 60 years, Chef's has stayed true to their motto, ``Where family and friends meet to eat.'' The late Lou Billittier, along with his daughter Mary Beth and son Louis John, have worked tirelessly to run their establishment according to the values of community involvement and customer service. The Billittiers believe in being involved in the restaurant's day-to-day process, and know that a personal touch goes a long way. Over the years, Chef's has mastered blending tradition and innovation. The restaurant began with just seven tables and a small banquet room. Three years ago, they implemented a drive-through window which enabled the restaurant's sales to increase. Now, the famous dining establishment is innovating again with their plans to create a food truck that will take Chef's notable Italian cuisine to the streets of Buffalo. In addition to their renowned restaurant, the Billittiers are known for their charity. Lou Billittier memorably had former Buffalo Sabre Rob Ray shave his head in front of a crowd of supporters for ``Bald for Bucks,'' a fundraiser for cancer research and patient support programs at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. On September 11th, 2013, in honor of its 90th anniversary, the restaurant will play host to the ``World's Largest Pasta Dinner.'' Proceeds from the event will benefit the Wounded Warriors Project which honors and empowers wounded U.S. troops and assists in making their post-service transition a smooth one. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to recognize Chef's Italian Restaurant for providing 90 years of dining and community service to Western New York, as well as the Billittier family for their continued hard work and generosity. As one of my personal favorites, I am proud to honor their legacy today, and I wish them the absolute best in all of their future endeavors. ____________________