Lori Stellwagen

I might have a different definition on signature dishes, I have been taught by my Grandmother and continued with my children that a signature dish is opening up the refrigerator and cabinets and creating what’s on your mind and in your heart. It’s a reminder that you always have food in the house and a dish to put on the table at dinner. My one dish that we all love I call Kitchen Sink Pasta.

Martha Stewart will forever be one of my biggest inspirations. When I was young being called “Martha” as my nickname was the highest compliment to me. I’d run to the mailbox for her Magazine, watch her show after school, then head straight to the kitchen to cook. She is one of the reasons I went to Johnson and Wales University. I even attended one of her shows in NY, sat front row and got the chance to talk with her. A moment I was always remember and love.

I would use this money to create a place that people would never want to leave, not a fancy restaurant or anything huge, just a place where food feels like home for people that need it the most, I know what it’s like when a hard day comes and you still have to put food on the table, I want to share my love of cooking to anyone that needs a pick me up and let them know they are going to bed with a full stomach and a peace of mind.