Jewel Box: The Story of Spinning J

You’ve probably never seen him. But if you’ve eaten at Spinning J, you’ve had something prepared with care by Richard Ridinger. He’s been the restaurant’s overnight baker, clocking in as most of us go to bed and working through the night. As Spinning J’s doors open, Richard disappears back home, only his work left behind. But on this episode of “Jewel Box,” we take a peek into the life of the man who has kept the restaurant running for 10 years. Richard and Spinning J have grown up together and eventually, led him to love. Produced by half day media.

Before Spinning J was an award-winning restaurant, it was many different things: An idea in Dinah Grossman’s head. Unwanted dishware, sitting in thrift stores across the country. A way to make some cash out of her apartment. A vacant art gallery. We get a glimpse inside one of Chicago’s most beloved bakeries, learn about its origins, and hear from the team as they prepare for the biggest day of any pie shop’s year: Thanksgiving. Produced by half day media.

An overture to the story of Spinning J as it celebrates a decade in Humboldt Park, Chicago.Produced by half day media.