Chef Brian Bowden – The Ginger Man, & Albany
        Chef Brian Bowden is the Executive Chef at The Ginger Man Restaurant in Albany, New York. Chef Brian specializes in sourcing local ingredients to provide guests with a unique and creative dining experience.             Chef Brian began his career at the age of fourteen and quickly realized his passion for the craft. This passion brought him to working in numerous Troy and Albany restaurants learning from some of the area's best chefs. In 1997 Chef Brian moved to Raleigh, North Carolina to work as Executive Sous Chef at Winston's Grille, one of Raleigh's top restaurants and early proponents of the local food movement. Chef Brian then accepted the position of Sous Chef on the island of St. Martin to explore Caribbean flavors and cuisine at the Restaurant Saratoga. In addition to being a personal Chef and food buyer, Chef Brian spent several years teaching in-home cooking classes and demonstrations. After a brief stage in Atlanta, Georgia at several Buckhead Life Restaurant Group restaurants, Chef Brian returned to Albany to work with the staff of McGuire's Restaurant and has now found his place with the Byron family at the Ginger Man.

The Ginger Man                                  427-5963
234 Western Ave.                                www.albanygingerman.com
Albany, NY 12203
 

Chef Michael Cocca – Franklin Plaza & Terrace, Troy
        Michael Cocca has a reputation - a reputation for providing the little extras, for delivering on promises, and for serving the community. This reputation is built on over 25 years of dedication to the food industry. 
            In 1992 Cocca purchased what is now the renowned Franklin Plaza after it had lain empty for several years.  Recognizing that these kinds of buildings just aren’t built anymore, Michael sponsored a 90-day whirlwind of renovation.  With as many as three construction companies working at once, the result was a refurbished building that retains its sense of history and opulence.
            Franklin Plaza is renowned as the place to go to make dreams come true and is the cornerstone of historic and enduring events. Its character has an instinctive connection in time which creates monumental memories and your very own time honored traditions. For over 170 years, Franklin Square of Troy has housed some of the most powerful financial institutions in New York State’s history.  Be immersed in tradition and elegance by having your next event with the Franklin Plaza family.  (Photo by Ilke Van Genechten).

Franklin Plaza                                 518-274-3421
4 4th Street                                     www.franklinplaza.com
Troy, NY 12180
 

Chef Michael Cohen - Chez Mike, East Greenbush
        At Chez Mike, our goal is to provide a superior dining experience through exceptional service and fresh, from-scratch food, in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. We are a casual restaurant serving Eclectic American Cuisine which changes seasonally.
           In addition to our comfortable dining room, Chez Mike offers a full service bar for your enjoyment. Chef/Owner Michael Cohen's off-the-cuff cooking style is always highlighted on the daily specials board which is constantly hanging according to the season's best offerings.

Chez Mike                                                 518-479-4730
596 Columbia Turnpike                            www.chezmikerestaurant.com
East Greenbush, NY 12061

Chef Michael Cunningham – Provence, Albany
      Chef Michael Cunningham, of ProvenceRestaurant, has been named one of the top five chefs in upstate New York. He has worked with many notable chefs in his career, including his journeyman experience with chef Rene Fachette, with whom he was classically trained in the European tradition.


Provence Restaurant                          689-7777
Stuyvesant Plaza                                www.provence-restaurant.net
Albany, NY 12203
 

Chef Mark Graham – MezzaNotte, Albany
          Chef Mark Graham brings his culinary talents, knowledge, and expertise to MezzaNotte, making every dish a culinary masterpiece. He began his career in the Boston area as executive chef for Seven Hills Egremont Inn before heading to Napa Valley. Mark worked under Michael French and Wolfgang Puck at Spago in Paolo Alto. He then relocated to the northeast and became the chef at The Wine Bar and The Lodge in Saratoga, also working as Sous Chef at Chez Sophie.
            In 2005, Mark Graham was one of the invited chefs at the James Beard House dinner. In early 2008, Chef Mark met Connie Ware, and they instantly clicked. With Connie’s knowledge of Italian food and Mark’s culinary expertise, MezzaNotte had been redefined. Mark never ceases to amaze Connie with his culinary creations, and when asked how he does it, he’ll proudly say, "with love."

MezzaNotte                                          518-689-4433
2026 Western Ave                                www.mezzanottealbany.com
Albany, NY 12203
 

Chef Anand "AJ" Jayapal – Panza's on the Green at Normanside, Delmar
          Chef Anand Jayapal's recipe for a great kitchen is "spontaneous cookery dictated by instinct." Chef Jayapal, or "A.J." as everyone calls him, possesses a strong and admirable work ethic that has helped him to develop confidence and professionalism in and out of the kitchen.            Chef A.J. has exceptional experience by working such events as the James Beard Foundation Awards and Annual Chef and Champagne. He has had the privilege of working with prominent area culinarians as well as internationally known chefs such as Wolfgang Puck, Jacques Pepin and Jasper White. Chef Jayapal also has experience with food "stylizing" and creating recipes for a nationally syndicated program in Albany, NY called "Carmine's Table". It was challenging as well as exciting because he got to work with and meet such distinguished chefs as Claudine Pepin, Sara Moulton, Emeril Lagasse, Curtis Aikens and many more celebrated associates in the culinary world.
            Chef A.J. has also taken the initiative to create his own marinade company - Miss Sydney's Secret Family Recipes, LLC. He is working with his family to "create the next new condiment." The formation of this company as a family owned and operated business is a life long dream for A.J. and the start of a new chapter in his culinary career.

Normanside Country Club                        518-439-2117
150 Salisbury Road                                  www.normanside.com
Delmar, NY 12054
 

Chef Scott Krause – Milano, Latham
           Distinctive Northern Italian Cuisine served in an atmosphere of casual elegance. Enjoy fresh homemade pasta, grilled seafood, poultry, veal specialties and wood-fired gourmet pizzas from the open-air kitchen. Indulge yourself with one of our signature desserts, gelato or pastries. Innovative daily specials are offered for both lunch and dinner by Head Chef, Scott Krause. A knowledgeable and courteous staff will guide you through our award-winning wine list that boasts over 150 unique selections, with both old world and new world wines.

Milano                                                            518-783-3334
594 New Loudon Road                                   www.milanonorth.com
Latham, NY 12110
 

Chef Mike Nicoli and Chef Eric Bolton – The Century House, Latham
          Certified Executive Chef Michael Niccoli and Executive Sous Chef Eric Bolton, over the past two years have been redefining the cuisine at The Century House. The community minded philosophy of The Century House carries through in the food they create. Sourcing product from neighboring and nearby farms and businesses such as Sunset Hills Farm, Davidson Brother's, Anna Mea's Jellies, Jams & Preserves, Old Chatham Sheepherding Company, Nettle Meadows, Adirondack Cheese Co., Zachary's Pastry Shoppe among many others.
          Both chefs play a key role in the development and ongoing success of The Century House's Enjoy One Share One Program. This program allows The Century House to provide a meal for every entrée we serve through one of the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York's 1,100 agencies to someone in need. In addition, once every month, the chefs along with volunteers comprised of staff and friends of The Century House prepare and serve a lunch or dinner service at different food pantries throughout the Capitol Region. To date, The Century House has been able to provide over 100,000 meals, in our guests honor, since the programs' start last June.
          The Century House is located on Route 9 in Latham. We offer 64 beautiful appointed Hotel Rooms and 4 extended stay apartments. We specialize in all types of hospitality from business conferences & meetings to weddings and grand social events as well as innovative and exciting cuisine in our dining room. We serve Lunch & Dinner Monday - Friday and Dinner only Saturday & Sunday.

The Century House                                       518-785-0931
997 New Loudon Road                                  www.thecenturyhouse.com
Latham, NY 12110
 

Chef Ric Orlando – New World Bistro Bar, Albany
"Global flavor, Local pride"

      Guided by these words, Ric Orlando brings an inspired blend of lust for life, outspoken passion for "clean food", and nationally renowned cooking prowess to his roles as chef, lecturer, author and media source.  Ric has remained true to his passion for preparing and promoting local food while honoring down to earth global flavors for over 20 years. His cooking style connects fine dining and health food. He understands what makes traditional, healthy foods both nourishing and satisfying and translates it all brilliantly into exciting, contemporary cuisine.
      His Saugerties restaurant is a Hudson Valley landmark and the new Albany Gastro-Pub New World Bistro Bar is a local favorite. His recipes and commentary are consistently in demand by the regional media. His tireless work in promoting the products, people and beauty of the region has made him the Hudson Valley's best known Chef.

New World Bistro Bar                        518-694-0520
300 Delaware Avenue                        www.newworldbistrobar.com
Albany, NY 12209
 

Chef Yono Purnomo CEC, CFBE - Yono’s, Albany
        In 1971 flamboyant Chef Widjiono (Yono) Purnomo, a native of Jakarta, Indonesia and graduate of APN Academy Perhotelan Negara, Bandung, Indonesia, embarked on a circuitous career journey that brought him to Albany’s most elegant dining rooms. When the opportunity to open his own restaurant came along, Certified Executive Chef Yono never looked back.  Chef Purnomo has expertly mastered the unique blending of exotic spices creating sophisticated, complex and layered cuisine.
            Chef Purnomo’s accomplishments include representing the United States both individually and as captain of a three member USA team in the British Open Cookery Championship.  He has represented New York State in the American Seafood Challenge, was a member of the National Chefs Touring Program for the two year long Indonesian Festival, and has been featured on the Today Show and TV Food Network. Yono’s, Albany’s only 4 star restaurant, is a recipient of the Distinguished Restaurants of North America (DiRoNA) award.  Chef Purnomo is affiliated with more than 75 charitable and community service organizations.  (Photo by Ilke Van Genechten).

Yono's                                                 518-436-7747
25 Chapel Street                                www.yonosrestaurant.com
Albany, NY 12210
 

Chef Larry Schepici – The Brown Derby, Albany
          Chef Larry Schepici was born and raised ends in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 25 years of culinary experience, he has showcased his talents throughout his career, garnering numerous awards on the way. In addition to winning Gold, Silver, and Bronze, he has been voted Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation. His travels led him to the Tavern at Sterup Square, located outside Troy, NY where he won several awards, including earning the prestigious DiRonA Award of excellence for 4 Consecutive years! Among the numerous awards Chef Larry has acclimated, he also represented and brought home a Bronze Medal for the United States at the Hotelympia 2000 Salon Culinaire "Master Chefs Grand Prix." Throughout his career, he has specialized in incorporating seasonal and local farms produce as the core ingredients in many of his dishes.
          Chef Larry is now enjoying the position as Executive Chef at The Brown Derby in downtown Albany. Reinvented by The Mallozzi Family over 80 years later, Albany's Brown Derby puts a modern twist on the Hollywood classic. Chef Larry Schepici brings decades of experience and imagination to the Brown Derby's lively yet casual cuisine. Come in and experience for yourself the fun and energetic atmosphere of The Brown Derby! Perfect for a night out with friends, family, or that special someone. When not just anywhere will do, remember to say "Meet Me at The Derby"!

The Brown Derby                               518-463-1945
22 Clinton Ave.                                  www.albanybrownderby.com
Albany, NY 12206
 

Chef Frank Tardio – Angelo’s Tavolo, Scotia
           Chef Tardio’s passion for cooking began at a young age. Working in the restaurant industry to make ends meet while pursuing a career in music, he found a way to bring his artistic style to his cuisine. After working as Sous Chef at the highly-acclaimed Starr's Restaurant in Albany, Chef Tardio has been with the company for over 11 years. He is the proud recipient of many awards, and also led the Glen Sanders Mansion team of chefs to victory at two Culinary Cornucopia competitions, placing in all 7 categories winning 5 gold medals and 2 silver including the overall “Grand Award.”
            Chef Tardio’s creativity and innovative menus are well known in the summer months where he can be found at the Patron's Club Restaurant in the Hall of Springs, and for the remainder of the year Chef Tardio brings his style and sophistication to Angelo's Tavolo - the Restaurant at Glen Sanders Mansion. His imaginative cuisine makes him one of our most sought after chefs.  (Photo by Ilke Van Genechten).

Angelo's Tavolo                                  518-374-7262
1 Glen Avenue                                   www.angelostavolo.com
Scotia, NY 12302
 

Chris Snye – The Placid Baker, Troy
            Chris Snye grew up on a farm surrounded by good food. There was never a question in his mind; food was all he wanted to do. His mother always had him in the kitchen, and he’s been there ever since. He started working at a diner at age 15 and graduated as a chef from Paul Smith’s Culinary Arts at age 19. From there he went to Shelburne Farms in Vermont and then to the Lake Placid Lodge, a member of Relais & Chateaux. Here, Chris learned pastry and baking working under the chef who trained with Jacque Torres.
          With experience at the local farmers markets, Chris saw a need and started his own business, The Placid Baker. He used 500 square feet in his garage in Westport, NY selling wholesale and at markets. Over four years, area clientele was established and The Placid Baker moved to Troy in May of this year.
           The Placid Baker offers a full line of organic artisan baked goods, European pastries, twists on American classics, small cakes and desserts and sandwiches. See us at local farmers markets and at the bakery on 250 Broadway in Troy, NY.  (Photo by Ilke Van Genechten).

The Placid Baker                                518-326-2657
250 Broadway                                    www.placidbaker.com
Troy, NY 12180
 

Claudia Crisan-Calabria & Iggy Calabria - Crisan Bakery, Albany
            Crisan Bakery and Edible Art Gallery is a scratch bakery that uses only the finest ingredients and bakes everything in the style, delicacy, and tradition of its three sister stores in Romania right in our own kitchen.  From gelato to puff pastry, all is hand made on the premises by Claudia and Iggy Calabria at 197 Lark Street in Albany. 
            Claudia Crisan was born into the baking business and worked in the first of her parent’s bakeries in Romania throughout her upbringing.  She studied fine arts at The University of the Arts and The Royal College of Art in London and graduated with degrees in Crafts and an MA in Goldsmithing, Silversmithing, Metalwork, and Jewelry.  Her present focus is the use of edible materials in wearable art. 
            Iggy Calabria was raised in Doylestown, Pennsylvania and graduated from Muhlenberg College and the University of the Arts with degrees in English, Jazz Guitar Performance, and an MAT in Music Education.  After teaching K-8 music in New Jersey, he studied pastry arts in Arad, Romania.
           Together, Claudia, Iggy and their wonderful staff are delighted to provide the Capital District with their desserts and pastries for all occasions and are pleased to feature seasonal local grown ingredients of this wonderful region.  Enjoy!  (Photo by Ilke Van Genechten).

Crisan Bakery & Edible Art Gallery        518-445-2727
197 Lark Street                                       www.crisanbakery.com
Albany, NY 12210
 

Rachel Cocca-Dott - Coccadotts, Albany
            Rachel Cocca-Dott has worked in the family hotel business and baking business since she was a young girl. She started at her aunts Vanilla Bean Baking Company at just 15 years old. She attended Schenectady Community College and it was there that she truly realized her passion was for cake decorating. In 2006 she decided to go out on her own and open up Coccadotts Cake Shop in Colonie. Because of her quality products made with the freshest ingredients and her attention to detail, her shop is always filled with happy and satisfied customers. Rachel Dott is a shining example of a woman who has realized the American dream while still staying true to her values. Her innovative ideas and creativity is why she is known county wide as "The Cuppycake Queen". Rachel has single handedly started the biggest cupcake craze this capital region has ever seen - and the rest, as they say, is "Cuppycake history!"

Coccadotts                                                  518-438-4937
1179 Central Ave.                                       www.coccadotts.com
Albany, NY 12210