For over 20 years, I’ve worked as a Chef for some of the finest hotels and restaurants along the East Coast, private catering, and teaching in a top notch culinary school. Specializing as a Garde Manger Chef, I’ve even cured my own meats and cheeses, and I love to make homemade jams! Things were quickly turned upside-down when I received my first cancer diagnosis and I was suddenly figuring out how to make ends meet. I began to think of all the things that made me happiest throughout my life.

As a child in an Italian household, visits with friends and family always started off by gathering around a platter of salami and cheese. Often tucked nearby were some olives, artichokes, crackers, and other delicious goodies. The Antipasto my Mom would make for the holidays was a creative masterpiece. She’d start days ahead infusing garlic oil and roasting peppers. She was meticulous in its assembly, and I would sit by and watch as it came together. I remember being in awe at the edible kaleidoscope she created on a huge platter, only to be torn to pieces with forks on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day. There was lots of laughter, love and memories as we stood around grazing on the delicious offerings. To this day, my Dad still makes a Cheeseboard before we go out to dinner, and then cautions us to save room for dinner. We always laugh, knowing we can never turn it down. We’d rather skip dessert!

I remembered why I was drawn to this field in the first place- to create those good times that centered around a shared plate. So now I’m putting that passion into creating these platters for you- So you can slow down and enjoy the important moments in life.

I have created Suncoast Charcuterie Company to share this happiness with you.