Joining us is Pedro Concepcion, a chef-turned-entrepreneur whose journey began in Chicago and led him to reshape the culinary and cultural landscape of northeastern Kansas.

Originally from Mexico, Pedro was raised in Chicago, where he studied culinary arts at the Illinois Institute of Art and honed his skills in fine dining kitchens. At age 21, he migrated to Kansas to help launch The Burger Stand in Lawrence, contributing to the menu, sauces, and early success of the brand. 

He quickly became a partner in The Burger Stand as the concept expanded to Topeka, where he later opened and grew its local presence. From there, Pedro helped develop menus and concepts for other standout eateries like The Pennant and Norsemen Brewing, eventually co-founding K.I.T. Solutions with his brother Javier—offering operational, culinary, and strategic support to restaurants across Topeka.

Today, Pedro serves as the CEO of the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District in North Topeka. He leads the ongoing revitalization of the area—an arts-driven neighborhood he affectionately describes as “eclectic, rustic, unpolished”: a place he says reminds him of Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. Under his leadership, NOTO has grown into a thriving creative hub that bridges art, business, and community engagement. 

Pedro’s story is a powerful example of vision, grit, and community-led transformation. We’re honored to welcome him as our guest today.