Fortune Favors is fueled by founder Eric Rupert’s 40-year career in esteemed kitchens like L’Etoile and Epic Systems. As a lifelong maker, Eric views food as a "language of care" designed to build human connections and spark genuine joy. This commitment to shared experience is the heart of the brand, transforming a "happy accident" into a memorable treat to share and savor.
The Pedigree of a Maker
Our founder, Eric Rupert, isn't your typical entrepreneur. He is a seasoned chef who spent decades in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country. His journey includes:
L’Etoile Restaurant: Eric joined this Madison icon in the late 1980s, eventually becoming co-chef alongside founder Odessa Piper. (More on that here!)
A Culture of Excellence: Working in an environment that pioneered farm-to-table sourcing and relationships over transactions, Eric connected deeply with the philosophy that food has the power to bring people together.
Diverse Expertise: Eric gained demanding, corporate experience with roles at Sub Zero-Wolf and as the executive chef at Epic Systems.
For Eric, making food is a language of care—a way to communicate something wordless but deeply felt. This emotional drive is what separates Fortune Favors from mainstream brands. We aren't just selling a snack; we are joining Eric in his lifelong dedication to bring joy to people through food.
The "Happy Accident" that Changed Everything
Great things often come from mistakes, and Fortune Favors is no exception. While working in a crowded kitchen, Eric accidentally dropped pecan halves into the wrong pot. Instead of a disaster, he discovered pecans with a perfect, shiny glaze and a surprising crunch.
As an "alchemist" of flavor, Eric spent years refining this accidental treat, sharing them as holiday gifts until taking the leap to start Fortune Favors (then Nutkrack) in 2018, eager to share the magic of his candied pecans full-time.
Why a Chef’s Touch Matters
Mainstream brands often prioritize transactions, but we prioritize relationships and quality. Eric’s culinary background ensures that every can of Fortune Favors meets an extraordinary standard:
Simple, High-Quality Ingredients: At the core of our cooking process are just four simple ingredients: pecans, sugar, canola oil, and kosher salt.
Mindful Nutrition: Our pecans contain 50% less sugar than most candied nut brands and are naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Positive Work Environment: Eric’s passion and leadership has allowed him to build a team of hard-working individuals who prioritize quality and love what they do.
Today, Eric continues to share that joy personally. Whether he’s on his Great American Pecan Tour—driving 4,500 miles to hand-deliver samples and smiles—or culturally innovative flavors like The Spark, his enthusiasm is the secret ingredient that makes our pecans a wholesome, joy-filled experience rather than just a snack.
