Hillary Gillis

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

Food is such a personal, and also such a social thing. From nourishing our bodies, supporting our mental health and cognitive function, to promoting socialization and bonding. Feeding the wellbeing of my family and clients, as well as their souls, keeps me in the hospitality industry and cooking for my beautiful family and supportive friends. Providing one of the most essential elements of life, and with love and skill, is my greatest happiness.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

Five spice crispy duck breast with bok choy and summer squash Mac and cheese. It’s just the right amount of elevated to feel special, but also comforting, familiar, and relatively simple. It’s also an amazing wine pairing dish.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d like to expand Kitchen Witch into a more visible arena, and scale my homestead to better support my community with truly locally grown produce, cooking and preservation classes. Primarily to begin a 501c(3) to fill the gap of emergency food needs for those finding themselves in unforeseen circumstances.