
The Louis J. Billittier Foundation was created by Lou Jr., his sister Mary Beth Billittier, and their late mother Ann in memory of Louis J. Billittier, Sr. following his passing in 2000. As the patriarch of the Billittier family, and long-time owner of Chef’s Restaurant, Lou Billittier was considered one of Western New York’s most dedicated community leaders.
A commitment to helping those in need earned Lou Sr., and the entire Billittier family, a reputation of kindness and generosity. Seldom does a day go by where the Chef’s family is not finding a way to give back to the community. Many of their gifts are anonymously provided to individuals in need of support, or as recognition for a deed well done.
Fundraising by the Louis J. Billittier Foundation supports organizations like the Variety Club, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Kevin Guest House and St. Luke’s Mission, the 5/14 Survivors Fund, Rachel’s Warriors Foundation against Domestic Abuse to small volunteer-run nonprofits like Little Smiles of WNY to name a few.
This year’s events include a Meat Raffle, scheduled for February 5, 2023, a Motorcycle Fun Run in June, and a “100 Years in Business” communnity event planned for September. Raffles and auctions throughout the year bring in funds to support organizations that support Chef’s Core Values.
Chef’s Core Values
Family – Our family and our community above all else
Tradition – We are dedicated to the legacy of our Italian heritage
Integrity – We do the right thing even when it’s not easy
Value – We offer quality products at a fair price
Consistency – We believe in a great customer experience every single time
Diversity – We celebrate all that is different and similar in us all
The Billittier family commitment to WNY is guided by Louis Billittier, Sr.’s mantra that supporting those in need is important “because it’s the right thing to do”.
Donations to the Louis J. Billittier Foundation are accepted by mailing or dropping off a check to Chef’s Restaurant, 291 Seneca Street, Buffalo, NY 14204.
Mary Beth & Lou Billittier, Jr., the brother and sister owners of Chef’s Restaurant in downtown Buffalo, made a $12,330 check presentation Tuesday May 31, 2022 to the Variety Club of Buffalo…celebrating both the 60th Anniversary of the annual Telethon, and their popular menu item, Spaghetti Parm. Lou Billittier, Jr. recognized the 60th Anniversary of the Telethon coincided with the 60th Anniversary of their signature dish. Lou announced Chef’s would donate $1 for every Spaghetti Parm, and the pasta dish created for legendary anchorman Irv Weinstein, sold in the weeks following the show. In addition, Chef’s matched verified pledges of $1,000. Lou was honorary Chairman of the show.
Board of Directors
* Ann Billittier
Louis J. Billittier, Jr.
Mary Beth Billittier
Chris Aronica
Ralph Galanti Jr.
Cochise Redeye
Board of Advistors
Ashley Billittier
Secretary
David Boreanaz
Actor
Matthew Burke
Kim Coates
Actor
Joe DeLamielleure
NFL Hall of Fame ’03
Marcel Dionne
NHL Hall of Fame ’92
Don Edwards
Buffalo Sabres Alumni
Phil Esposito
NHL Hall of Fame ’84
William Fichtner
Actor
Danny Gare
Buffalo Sabres Alumni
Board of Advistors
*Richard Martin
Buffalo Sabres Alumni
*Michael Muscarella
Louis Mustillo
Actor
Gilbert Perreault
NFL Hall of Fame ’90
Larry Playfair
Buffalo Sabres Alumni
*Rene Robert
Buffalo Sabres Alumni
Rip Simonick
Trainer Buffalo Sabres
Bruce Smith
NFL Hall of Fame ’09
Thurman Thomas
NFL Hall of Fame ’07
Accounting
Raymond P. Crane, C.P.A
Legal Counsel
Jonathan D. Schecter
Gross Shuman P.C.
* Deceased
Chef’s/Foundation 1/9/23