Susan Filice

I don’t believe great cooking is limited to one signature dish. What inspires me most is experimenting with fresh ingredients, unexpected flavor pairings, and creating meals that bring people together. I love exploring how food can be both comforting and vibrant. One dish that continues to stand out is my lemon lavender salmon — light, fresh, and layered with flavors that feel both elegant and approachable while celebrating wellness and connection through food.

My inspiration began in the kitchen with my mother, where fresh bread, garden vegetables, foraged chanterelles, and beautifully prepared meals taught me that food is about care, connection, and experience. Today, that philosophy continues through my work creating wellness-focused culinary and hospitality experiences that bring people together, support vibrant aging, and remind people that gathering around a table still matters.

If I win, I hope to continue creating experiences that bring people together through wellness, hospitality, and meaningful connection around the table. Food has the power to nourish far beyond the plate, especially as we age. I would also use part of the opportunity to support my daughter as she builds her future, while continuing to expand programs and experiences that inspire healthier, more vibrant living for others.