Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality 2018

2018 Top Women
  • Simplot Frozen Avocado
  • McKee Foodservice
  • Inline Plastics Safe-T-Chef
  • Day & Nite
  • Red Gold Sacramento
  • Texas Pete
  • BelGioioso Burrata
  • AyrKing Mixstir
  • RAK Porcelain
  • T&S Brass Eversteel Pre-Rinse Units
  • RATIONAL USA
  • DAVO Sales Tax
  • Atosa USA
  • Imperial Dade
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2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality
Presented by Women’s Foodservice Forum
Jump to: A-BC-E • F-KL-M • N-RST-Z


NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHERS

As we get set to reflect on 2017 and welcome in 2018, it dawned on us that many of the significant stories that we covered this year shared a common theme: women in foodservice! From the election of Victoria Vega to the leadership position at SHFM (Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management) to the $2.4 billion dollar sale of Buffalo Wild Wings, women have been at the centerstage of the industry.

That’s a long way from 1989, when the then-upstart Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF) conducted a survey of women in the foodservice industry, specifically asking them about professional aspirations. Not one respondent expressed desires to be CEO. From Sally Smith who departs as BW’s President and CEO, to the one and only Alice Elliot of the Elliot Group who is empowered to find the next CEO and president for New York and Americas’ top chains, to Manhattan chef/owner Angie Mar and Little M. Tucker’s Morgan Tucker, women are making their mark on the restaurant and foodservice industry.

As we noted last year, we continue to interview professionals from all aspects of the industry, we see what used to be location-location-location has clearly evolved into people-people-people. We are convinced that the stakes have become so high with restaurant space rents fluctuating from $500 to $2K a square foot in Manhattan, that the proverbial glass ceiling continues to crack. There simply isn’t any time or wiggle room to worry about gender, it is all about competence.

  • Day & Nite
  • Texas Pete
  • T&S Brass Eversteel Pre-Rinse Units
  • Atosa USA
  • McKee Foodservice
  • AyrKing Mixstir
  • Inline Plastics Safe-T-Chef
  • RATIONAL USA
  • DAVO Sales Tax
  • Simplot Frozen Avocado
  • Imperial Dade
  • RAK Porcelain
  • Red Gold Sacramento
  • BelGioioso Burrata

Women are finding increased opportunity as ownership and management focuses on the ability to consistently create a signature customer dining experience in a Manhattan restaurant, a New Jersey corporate dining facility or a Long Island healthcare facility to deliver a world-class customer experience. That’s why once again we have dedicated this issue to profiling the impact that women have had on the Tri-State foodservice scene.  They have risen to amazing heights and turned the Greater NYC Marketplace into the epicenter of the world’s restaurant and food service industry.

Certainly, it’s easy to point to the growth of culinary programs and food programming on television, which has led to pockets of culinary excellence in Metro NYC and across the country but in the Tri-State area, these talents reach far beyond just the back of the house. We owe special thanks to a number of colleagues that represent many segments of the Tri-State foodservice community. They were gracious with their time to help us build this list of the “best and the brightest” women in our industry. We selected categories based on that input.

Our mission for the criteria of this list was to identify innovators within each of those major disciplines of the foodservice and hospitality industry. Women are having a major impact on the bricks and mortar design of restaurants, and the sales of equipment supplies and service. They also have major impact on what food and beverage is being served on local menus, and the management and marketing of foodservice facilities.

Our goal is to share some of their amazing stories and to make all of us realize that any goal is accomplishable with a measure of hard work and some good luck sprinkled in.

Leslie Klashman
Fred Klashman
Publishers, Total Food Service


A-B: 2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality

Jump to: TopC-E • F-KL-M • N-RST-Z

Stephanie Abrams
Rotisserie Georgette
New York, NY    Chef

Maja Adiletta
Arcobaleno
Lancaster, PA    Co-Founder

Suchanan Aksornnan
Baoburg
New York, NY    Hospitality

Joyce Appelman
C-CAP
New York, NY    Public Relations

Donatella Arpaia
Prova
New York, NY •  Chef/Owner

Tracy Arthur
H Careers
New York, NY    Careers

Alba Aviles
James J Peters VA Medical Center
Bronx, NY    Nutrition & Hospitality

Alison Awerbuch
Abigail Kirsch
New York, NY    Caterer

Carrie Bachman
Carrie Bachman Public Relations
New York, NY    Public Relations

Lori Balter
Balter Sales
New York, NY    Equipment & Supply

Lisa Banas
Mohegan Sun Casino
Uncasville, CT    Purchasing

Lidia Bastianich
B&B Hospitality
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Judith Batashoff
Highfield Gardens Care Center
Bayside, NY    Food Service Director

Jennifer Baum
Bullfrog & Baum
New York, NY    Public Relations

Shari Bayer
Bayer PR, New York, NY
Marketing & Advertising

Emma Bengtsson
Aquavit
New York, NY    Executive Chef

Stephanie Berghoff
Culintro
New York, NY    Media

Gina Bertucci 
Marriott Hotels
New York, NY    Hotel

Grace Best
Imperial Dade
Jersey City, NJ    Marketing

Sara Bigelow
The Meat Hook
New York, NY    Chef

Diana Bisson
Foxwoods Casino
Mashantucket, CT    Purchasing

Leah Blackman
Icrave
New York, NY    Design

April Bloomfield
The Spotted Pig
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Barbara Boden
Global Amenity Services
New York, NY    B&I

Nicole Bonica
NYC Schools
New York, NY    Schools

Marlisa Brown
Total Wellness
Bay Shore, NY    Nutrition

Antoinette Bruno 
Star Chefs
Brooklyn, NY    Events

Beth Bunster 
Whitsons
Islandia, NY    Finance

Angie Buonpane
Union Square Hospitality Group
New York, NY    Hospitality

Anne Burrell
Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge, Brooklyn, NY    Chef/TV Personality

Lonnie Burt
Hartford Schools
Hartford, CT    Schools

 


Einat Admony 2018 Top Women in Foodservice

Einat Admony, Taim, New York, NY

Einat Admony is the chef and owner of several restaurants in New York City, including Balaboosta, Bar Bolonat, and Taim. Before becoming a successful chef and restaurateur, she was a cook in the Israeli Army. Admony’s Israeli roots influence the fare at all of her restaurants. Taim provides diners with delicious vegetarian dishes in a casual atmosphere at both locations in Nolita and the West Villages. Balaboosta and Bar Bolonat combine Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines to create clever and tasty menus. If she wasn’t busy enough, Admony is also the author of a fantastic cookbook, Balaboosta: Bold Mediterranean Recipes to Feed the People You Love. Currently, she lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two children.

Umber Ahmad 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Umber Ahmad, Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery, New York, NY

Umber Ahmad grew up in a town in northern Michigan, but the magic of spices was first taught to her in Pakistan. After studying genetics and business, Umber spent much of her career in finance. During her tenure as an investment banker, she was the subject of “Risk|Reward”, a critically acclaimed 2002 TriBeCa Film Festival documentary about women on Wall Street. While she continues to work closely with luxury brands, world-renowned chefs and restaurateurs to expand their concepts globally, Umber has gone on to open Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery. In the Urdu language, mazedar is the word used to convey the indescribable essence and experience associated with great food. As the first Colicchio Discovery brand, Umber is thrilled and honored to be building the next great culinary experience with Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery. It is through the making and sharing of her treats that she has found her true voice.

Marie Assante 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Marie Assante, Assante Public Relations, New York, NY

Marie Assante began developing the idea for Assante Public Relations in December of 2015. Prior to starting her own company, she learned from other industry gurus over the course of ten years working at various boutique PR firms throughout New York City. In January of 2016, Assante’s goal was realized with the launch of Assante Public Relations. Her clients range from Camacho’s and Pergola to Bagatelle and Delilah. Assante Public Relations offers an array of services, including press placements, the development of new ideas and concepts, and the discovery of unique sides of a business. Assante has become exceptionally popular among her clients as she strives to exceed their expectations on a daily basis.


C-E: 2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality

Jump to: TopA-B • F-KL-M • N-RST-Z

Alicia Cannon
AJC Design
New York, NY    Founder/Principal

Gabrielle Carbone
The Bent Spoon
Princeton, NJ    Chef/Owner

Dawn Cascio
Valley Hospital, Ridgewood, NJ
Director of Food & Nutrition

Logan Rich Chabina
EMM Group
New York, NY    Hospitality

Esther Choi
Mokbar
New York, NY    Chef

Andrea Clurfeld
Asbury Park Press
Asbury Park, NJ • Restaurant Reviewer

Alison Cody
MAFSI
Atlanta, GA    Association

Amanda Cohen
Dirt Candy
New York, NY    Chef

Zoe Cohen
The Westin New York at Times Square
NY, NY • Director, Restaurants & Bars

Andria Coleman
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
New York, NY    Food & Nutrition

Faith Hope Consolo
Douglas Elliman Real Estate
New York, NY    Real Estate

Dana Cowin 
Chefs Club
New York, NY    Marketing

Jeanne Cretella 
Landmark Hospitality
Jersey City, NJ    Owner

Suzanne Cupps
Untitled at the Whitney
New York, NY    Chef

Ariane Daguin
D’Artagnan
Newark, NJ    Distribution

Dianna Daoheung
Black Seed Bagels
New York, NY    Chef

Clare de Boer
King
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Karen DeLamater
Jersey City Public Schools
Jersey City, NJ    Schools

Lauren DeSteno
Marea
New York, NY    Chef

Christine Devers
Reniassance NY Times Square Hotel
New York,NY    GM

Adrienne Diaz
Samuels and Son Seafood
Philadelphia PA    Senior Sales Rep

Maura Dillon
St. Francis Hospital & The Heart Center, Mineola, NY
• Director of Food & Nutrition Services

Denise DiMare
Connecticut Schools
Hartford, CT    Schools

Angela Dimayuga
Mission Chinese Food NY
New York, NY    Chef

Karen DiPeri
HMG Plus, New York, NY    Hospitality

Gladys DiStefano
FBAA
New York, NY    Association

Randi Shubin Dresner
Island Harvest Food Bank
Mineola, NY    Charity

Maureen Drum
Institute Of Culinary Education
New York, NY    Education

Ariane Duarte 
Ariane Kitchen Bar
Verona, NJ    Chef/Owner

Whitney Edwards
Benchmarc Restaurants
New York, NY    Director of Events

Amelia Ekus
Guckenheimer, New York, NY  •  Regional Director of Operations

Alice Elliot
The Elliot Group
Tarrytown, NY    Human Resources

Laura Endico-Verzullo
Ace Endico
Brewster, NY    Distribution

Linda DiLisio 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Linda DiLisio, Casa DiLisio, Mt. Kisco, NY

As VP Operations of Casa DiLisio, Linda has been in the industry for over 30 years. During that time she has helped her parents, Lou and Lucy DiLisio market and build Casa DiLiso’s business to where it is today. Linda is a former IBM employee, learned the ins and outs of the industry and is now responsible for the daily operation of their plant and representing the company at the 35 trade shows that Casa DiLisio participates in every year. The company’s brand of sauces fits all of the criteria for Food Service and sells their products to everyone from Cruise Lines to Chain accounts to White Table Cloth establishments and every kind of operation in between.


F-K: 2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality

Jump to: TopA-BC-EL-M • N-RST-Z

Florence Fabricant
The New York Times
New York, NY    Media

Georgette Farkas
Rotisserie Georgette
New York, NY    Owner

Audrey Farolino
Zagat / Google
New York, NY    Media

Leslie Ferrer
Momofuku
New York, NY    VP, Human Resources

Nancy Finkelstein
Carousel Cakes
Nanuet, NY    Food Mfg

Pearl Fleischman 
Kerekes / Bake Deco
Brooklyn, NY    Equipment & Supplies

Melissa Fleischut
NYSRA
Albany, NY    President/CEO

Marvo Forde 
Maimonides Medical Center
Laurelton, NY    Nutritional Services

Elizabeth Franks
Acfli
Holtsville, NY    Association

Kelly Friend
Whitsons Culinary Group
Islandia, NY    COO

Amanda Fugazy 
Ellenoff, Grossman & Schole LLP
New York, NY    Partner

Alyssa Gangeri
Riverwalk Bar & Grill
Roosevelt Island, NY    Chef/ Author

Stephanie Giraulo
St. Charles Hospital
Port Jefferson, NY    Dietetics

Laura Gladish
Batard Restaurant
New York, NY    Maitre D’

Jenny Glasgow
Olivier Cheng Catering & Events
New York, NY    Chef/Caterer

Rozanne Gold
Gold Enterprises
New York, NY    Chef

Rebecca Goldberg
Pierre Hotel
New York, NY    Hotel

Jenny Goodman
Tilit
New York, NY    Co-founder

Stephanie Goto
Stephanie Goto Design
New York, NY    Design

Cheryl Grabowski
Harvest Restaurant Group
Morris Plains, NJ    Proprietor

Amy Greenberg
Citibank
New York, NY    Senior VP

Alex Guarnaschelli
Butter Restaurant/Food Network
New York, NY    Celebrity Chef

Yusi Guerrera 
Citarella
New York, NY    Owner

Jocelyn Guest 
White Gold Butchers
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Christine Gurtler
Jacobs Doland Beer
New York, NY    Director of Design

Thea Habjanic
La Sirena
New York, NY    Executive Pastry Chef

Amanda Halle
Harri, New York, NY
Director of Partnerships

Tara Halper
Key Group Worldwide
New York, NY    Public Relations

Marilou Halvorsen
NJRHA
Trenton, NJ    President

Gabrielle Hamilton
Prune
New York, NY    Chef/Author

Hattie Hill
Women’s Foodservice Forum
Dallas, TX    Association

Jennifer Hsieh
Marriott International
New York,NY    GM

Megan Humpreys
Four Seasons
New York, NY    Hotel

Penny Hutner
Advance Tabco     Edgewood, NY
Equipment & Supplies

Patti Jackson
Delaware And Hudson
Brooklyn, NY    Chef/Owner

Rita Jammet
La Caravelle
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Saru Jayaraman 
ROC
Berkley
, CA    Association

Sara Jenkins 
Porsena
New York, NY • Chef

Barbara Kane
Ecolab
Shrewsbury, NJ    Industry Relations

Elizabeth Kellogg
Kellogg & Caviar
New York, NY    Public Relations

Vincenza Kelly
Italian Trade Commission
New York, NY    Vendor

Abigail Kirsch
Abigail Kirsch
Briarcliff Manor, NY    Caterer

Amanda Kludt
Eater
New York, NY    Media

Johanna Kolodny
Food Systems Consulting
Bronx, NY    Distribution

Stephanie Kornblum
Culintro
New York, NY    Media

Jaime Kriss
Restaurant Depot
College Point, NY    Cash & Carry

Agatha Kulaga
Ovenly
New York, NY    Founder

Linda Kavanagh 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Linda Kavanagh, MaxEx Public Relations, Stamford, CT

Linda Kavanagh is the founder of MaxEx Public Relations. Prior to launching her company, Kavanagh spent ten years in the culinary field, including line cooking, and later, catering. Naturally, her clients include over 300 businesses in the restaurant and dining industry. Kavanagh’s experience in the restaurant industry adds another layer to her skill set, and separates her from other publicists. “A publicist is geared towards just the PR part and that’s all they know. But I actually know food. I know restaurants. I know the industry,” Kavanagh said. Her career as a publicist began at Gary Stromberg’s PR firm in the music industry. After learning the business, Kavanagh went on to launch MaxEx in 1997.  

Sandra Kravetz 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Sandra Kravetz, Performance Food Equipment Group, Elmwood Park, NJ

Sandra Kravetz is the Director of Sales at Performance Food Equipment Group. She possesses an extensive background in the hospitality and foodservice industries. Kravetz’s tenure in the foodservice industry began at Coca-Cola, where she was a business development manager. Next, she moved on to Bon Chef. Continuing on a foodservice path, Kravetz spent some time working at M. Tucker, and then stepped into her current position at Performance Food Equipment. Over the course of her career, she has acquired a strong skill set and gained a thorough knowledge and understanding of the foodservice industry. Exceptional customer service is certainly among Kravetz’s expertise. “Chefs are artists, and I am very passionate about tabletop. I really work to capture their vision and incorporate it into the project,” said Kravetz.  

Stefanie Kyles 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Stefanie Kyles, Vassilaros & Sons, New York, NY

Stefanie Kasselakis Kyles is President, CEO and a member of the Board of Directors at New York City coffee roaster Vassilaros & Sons, Inc. Family-owned; Vassilaros & Sons has provided excellent coffee to businesses throughout the tri-state area since 1918. Interestingly, Vassilaros worked in international corporate law, as well as finance prior to joining Vassilaros & Sons in 2015. Kyles began her career practicing law with Norton Rose, and later moved on to investment banking as a senior banker at Jefferies & Co. Before joining the family business, Kyles served as General Counsel and President of Poten’s investment banking division. After 100 years in business, Vassilaros & Sons has become a true staple for people throughout the tri-state area.  


L-M: 2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality

Jump to: TopA-BC-E • F-K • N-RST-Z

Gloria La Grassa
Pluckemin Inn
Bedminster,NJ    Chef/Owner

Livia Lam
New York City Dept of Correction
Brooklyn, NY    Chief Dietician

Linda Lawry
Les Dames D’ Escoffier
New York, NY    Association

Hanna Lee
Hanna Lee Communications
New York,NY    PR

Sarabeth Levine 
Sarabeth’s
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Terry Lewis
Sheraton Times Square
New York,NY    GM

Ellen Lynch
Food Bank For Westchester
Elmsford, NY    Charity

Lili Lynton
Dinex Group
New York, NY    Restaurants

Karen Maier
Nutri-Serv
Burlington, NJ    Schools

Heather Maloney 
Definition Design
New York, NY    Design

Sarah Maloney 
CT Restaurant Association
Hartford, CT    Association

Yvonne Mancini
The Pierre Hotel
New York, NY    Hospitality

Laura Maniec
Corkbuzz Wine Studio
New York, NY    Liquor & Spirits

Eileen Manitsas 
Baldor
Bronx, NY    Distribution

Jennifer Martin
New York State Schools
Albany, NY    School

Kristine Martin
Steelite
New York, NY    Sales

Zarela Martinez
Zarela
New York, NY    Chef

Tara Mastrelli 
Studio Tano
New York, NY    Design

Alexa Mehraban
Eating NYC
New York,NY    Social Media

Sally Saltzbart Minier
Jane Street Capital, New York, NY, Head of Office Administration

Irina Mirsky-Zayas
Equipex
Providence, RI    VP

Sam Mittler 
The Dessertist
New York, NY    Chef

Laura Modica
HEI Hotels & Resorts, New York, NY
Director, Restaurants & Nightlife

Fran Moreira
Restaurant Depot
College Point, NY    Cash & Carry

Sara Moulton
Food Network
New York, NY    Media

Debbie Mumford
Mumford’s Culinary Center
Tinton Falls, NJ    Exec. Pastry Chef

Kim Lehr 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Kim Lehr, Performance Food Equipment Group, Elmwood Park, NJ

Kim Lehr is a sales associate at Performance Food Equipment Group. Her extensive career in foodservice has spanned over two decades. Lehr’s great experience in tabletop coupled with her proficiency in sales has made her a strong asset for Performance Food Equipment. Lehr’s career has evolved over the course of twenty years. She launched Lehr Marketing, and later moved on to Lehr McKeown. Next, she joined Performance Food Equipment Group, where she incorporates her skills in sales. Lehr’s career has given her a strong understanding of foodservice, and great insight into the industry. “The foodservice industry has evolved tremendously. It’s becoming a younger sector, and I love working with newcomers who may have transitioned into foodservice from a different industry. I’ve found my work to be really fun and exciting – It challenges me everyday, and I like that,” Lehr said.  

Maria Loi 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Maria Loi, Loi Estiatorio, New York, NY

Maria Loi has had a highly successful and extensive career. Fortune Magazine and the James Beard Foundation selected her as one of America’s top six female chefs and invited her to the 2014 Fortune: The Most Powerful Women Summit. In addition, Loi is no stranger to television. Not only is she a frequent television guest and speaker regarding various aspects of Greek cuisine and culture, but she is also a well-known television chef in Greece. In June of 2016, Loi was unanimously re-elected for a second term as the official Ambassador of Greek Gastronomy. In 2012, she accepted an invitation to cook for President Obama, Vice President Biden, and 250 honored guests at the White House. Loi also authored a book titled The Greek Diet, offering a look into Greek Mediterranean lifestyle along with a number of healthy and delicious recipes. Diners should make it a point to visit her newest restaurant, Loi Estiatorio, located in the heart of Manhattan. Loi Estiatorio is a wonderful way to experience Loi’s clever approach to Greek cuisine.  

Angie Mar 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Angie Mar, Beatrice Inn, New York, NY

Angie Mar has served as the executive chef of New York City’s historic Beatrice Inn. Originally from Seattle, Mar’s tenure at the Beatrice Inn began in 2013. Despite the fact that unique vegetable dishes have recently experienced a surge in popularity, Mar continues to focus on a largely meat based menu. A champion of meats, she prepares everything from beef, duck and lamb, to rabbit, venison, and wild boar. Her dishes are not only delicious, but also distinctive and clever. In fact, Mar prepares an exceptional branzino that comes baked inside a beef-fat pastry! She is clearly not intimidated by the attention that vegetables are getting, and has continued to create clever dishes that never disappoint. If you find yourself at the Beatrice Inn and in the mood for a salad, reconsider and order the tartare! 

Veronica McLymont 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Veronica McLymont, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY

Veronica McLymont currently serves as the Director of Food and Nutrition Services at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. She is a registered Dietitian and a Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist with a Bachelors degree in Foods and Nutrition from Brooklyn College, a Masters Degree in Nutrition from Hunter College, and a Doctoral Degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. McLymont spearheaded and successfully launched the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Nutrition Care Process and Model, which requires clinical dietitians to make nutrition diagnoses, and incorporate a standardized process for nutrition documentation. In addition, McLymont has been the recipient of several accolades. In 2008, she was voted a “Trend Setter” by the American Society for Health Care Foodservice Administrators. In 2011, The Network Journal distinguished her as one of the “25 Most Influential Black Women in Business.” McLymont has also contributed a chapter in a Cancer Rehabilitation textbook on “Nutrition Care of the Cancer Patient.” Her various achievements within the industry made her an easy pick for this list.  

Erin Moran 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Erin Moran, Union Square Hospitality Group, New York, NY

Originally from Baltimore, Erin Moran was appointed the first-ever Chief Culture Officer of the USHG. In her capacity in that role, Moran is responsible for strengthening and developing USHG’s culture of Enlightened Hospitality, as well as overseeing all aspects of the employee experience. An expert on corporate culture, prior to joining USHG in 2013, Moran spent ten years at Great Place to Work, which is a firm that studies and identifies great workplaces and offers human resources consulting services at a global level. At Great Place to Work, Moran began as a consultant in 2004, eventually rising to the position of Executive Vice President of US Business. After a year-long collaboration between Great Place to Work and USHG in which Moran led a survey-based assessment of organizational health, workplace culture, and employee experience, she opted to join the leadership team at USHG.  


N-R: 2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality

Jump to: TopA-BC-E • F-KL-MST-Z

Erika Nakamura
White Gold Butchers
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Kim Nathanson
The Niemitz Design Group
Old Greenwich, CT    Design

Marion Nestle
NYU
New York, NY    Education

Jill Nouatt
Food Network
New York, NY    Media

Doris V. O’Neil
Golden Gate Rehab & Health Care Center, Staten Island, NY
Food Service Director

Tracy Obolsky
North End Grill
New York, NY    Chef

Mandy Oser
Ardesia Wine Bar
New York, NY    Wine & Spirits

Shanna Pacifico
Cozinha Latina
Brooklyn NY    Chef/Owner

Cai Pandolfino
Green & Tonic
Greenwich, CT    Owner

Becca Parrish
Becca PR
New York, NY    Public Relations

Erin Patinkin
Ovenly
New York, NY    Founder

Tatanisha Peets
Memorial Sloan Kettering
Yonkers, NY
Patient Experience Manager

Erin Pepper
Life Hotel , New York, NY   
VP, Brand & Experience

Cyndi Perez
Peacock Inn
Princeton, NJ    Chef/Owner

Kelly Perkins 
Bold Restaurants
New York, NY    HR

Mina Pizarro
Juni
New York, NY    Chef

Maricel Presilla
Cucharamama / Zafra
Hoboken, NJ    Chef/Owner

Sarah Quinlan
Mastercard
New York, NY    Senior VP

Jennifer Rackoff
Quality Branded
New York, NY    Attorney

Alex Raij
El Quinto Pino / Txikito
New York, NY    Chef

Ann Redding
Uncle Boons
New York, NY    Chef

Leslie Rempfer
NJRHA
Trenton, NJ    Association

Meredith Reuben
EBP Supply Solutions
Milford, CT    Distribution

Tonya Riggins
Newark Schools
Newark, NJ    Schools

Shannon Rinella
Interstate Hotels
New York, NY    Talent Development

Missy Robbins
Lilia, New York, NY
Chef/Owner

Rion Robbins
Henry’s
New York, NY    General Manager

Jasmine Rodriguez
16 Handles
New York, NY    Quick Serve

Melissa Rodriguez
Del Posto
New York, NY    Executive Chef

Julie Rose
Sweet Hospitality Group
New York, NY    President/Founder

Diane Rossi
Pro-Tek
Jericho, NY    Service

Laetitia Rouabah 
Benoit
New York, NY    Executive Chef

Brigitte Rounds 
Advantage Marketing
Hauppauge, NY    VP, K12 Services

Carla Ruben 
Creative Edge
New York, NY    Caterer

Nicki Russ 
Russ & Daughters
New York, NY    Owner

Amy Russo
Toast
Montclair, NJ    Owner/Operator

Nicole Ruvo
Dom Perignon
New York, NY    Wine & Spirits

Debra Ryan
GNJSHFSA
New Milford, NJ    President

Liz Neumark 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Liz Neumark, Great Performances Catering
New York, NY

Liz Neumark is a culinary visionary and certified trendsetter in the world of food politics. A member of the New York State Food Policy Council, she is also the Founder and CEO of Great Performances Catering. In 2006, Great Performances became the first catering company to own a farm. In 2007, Neumark and her husband founded a nonprofit organization aimed at encouraging healthy eating for children called The Sylvia Center. The Sylvia Center offers cooking workshops and tours of the farm with the goal of providing an education on the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. Expanding on this passion, Neumark published a cookbook meant to inspire families to cook healthy and wholesome meals together, titled Sylvia’s Table. She has also been the recipient of an extensive list of accolades, including the Food Arts Silver Spoon Award, Crain’s 100 Most Influential Women, and Ernst & Young New York Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Her contributions to The Huffington Post and Straus Publications on topics related to food politics are not to be missed.

Stephanie Oakland 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Stephanie Oakland, Oakland’s Restaurant and Sundays On The Bay, Hampton Bay, NY

Stephanie Oakland is the owner of two exceedingly popular restaurants in Hampton Bays, New York: Sundays On The Bay and Oakland’s Restaurant. Over the years, Oakland’s Restaurant has hosted numerous events and fundraisers. Family owned and operated, both Oakland’s Restaurant and Sunday’s On The Bay provide diners with delicious food and a pleasant atmosphere with views of the water. Oakland’s is a seasonal restaurant, open from mid-April to the end of October, while Sundays offers great food year round. Diners at Oakland’s enjoy an assortment of the freshest seafood in a scenic setting. Sundays On The Bay offers an extensive menu with a variety of tasty options ranging from oysters and lobster to hamburgers and tacos. Both restaurants have become a beloved staple, with Oakland’s gearing up for its 27th season in 2018.

Carolyn D. Richmond 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Carolyn D. Richmond, Fox Rothschild LLP; New York City Hospitality Alliance, New York, NY

Carolyn D. Richmond is the chair of the Hospitality Practice at Fox Rothschild LLP. She focuses on representing and counseling employers at restaurants, hotels, caters, nightclubs, lounges, fitness centers, and other businesses within the hospitality industry. Richmond possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience in litigating wage and hour class actions, restrictive covenants, and employment discrimination cases. In addition, she is well suited to offer counseling and consulting services regarding workplace issues such as diversity awareness training, employee handbooks, and hiring procedures. Richmond is a frequent guest speaker at conferences and events, discussing topics relating to labor and employment, and serves as counsel to the New York City Hospitality Alliance. She has received a number of honors and awards, including Lawdragon’s 2017 Guide to The Most Powerful Employment Lawyers, the Law Review Outstanding Service Award, as well as being named “Super Lawyer” in the New York Women’s Edition of Super Lawyers Magazine (2016-2017).  


S: 2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality

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Amy Sacco
No. 8
New York, NY    Nightclubs

Samantha Safer
Otway
Brooklyn NY    Partner

Rosie Saferstein
New Jersey Monthly Magazine
Morristown, NJ    Media

Arlene Sailhac
ICC
New York, NY    Education

Jordan Salcito
David Chang Restaurants
New York, NY    Wine & Spirits

Cornelia Samara
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn,NY    GM

Christine Sanchez 
Bold Restaurants
New York, NY    Culinary

Arlene Saunders
Allied Metal Spinning
Bronx, NY    Manufacturer

Sarah Ashley Schiear 
Sarah Ashley
New York, NY    Catering

Caroline Schiff
Scoops & Sweets / Greene Grape, New York, NY • Executive Pastry Chef

Lynne Schultz
Tri-State Marketing
Ossining, NY    Equipment & Supplies

Nikita Scott
New York City Hospitality Alliance
New York,NY    Communications

Neesha Seervai 
Apple Metro
Harrison, NY    Operations

Jess Shadbolt
King, New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Beth Shapiro
Citymeals-on-Wheels
New York, NY    Executive Director

Gail Sharry
New Haven Schools
New Haven, CT     Schools

Mimi Sheraton
Mimi Sheraton Inc
New York, NY    Media

Annie Shi
King, New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Cara Siegel
HUB International
New York,NY    VP

Gail Simmons 
Bravo TV
New York, NY    Media

Amanda Smeltz
Roberta’s And Blanca
Brooklyn, NY    Chef

Rita Sodi
I Sodi / Via Carota
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Daniela Soto-Innes
Cosme
New York, NY    Chef

Roxanne Spruance
Kingsley
New York, NY    Chef

Karen Stabiner
Columbia University
New York, NY    Author

Arianna Staiano
Libbey Foodservice, New York, NY  
NY District Sales Manager

Robin Standefer
Roman And Williams
New York, NY    Design

Jilly Stephens
City Harvest
New York, NY    Charity

Jody Storch 
Peter Luger Steakhouse
Brooklyn, NY    Owner

Dawn Sweeney 
NRA
Chicago, IL    Association

Elizabeth Schaible 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Elizabeth Schaible, Chef / Professor, New York, NY

Elizabeth Schaible attended University of Kentucky and possesses an undergraduate degree in business administration. She went on to obtain an additional degree in hospitality management from New York City College of Technology, and received a Masters of Science from Rochester Institute of Technology with a concentration in service management. Now known as Professor Schaible, she teaches culinary arts, purchasing, dining room management and marketing at City Tech. Schaible has an extensive background in culinary and hospitality management roles, counting her position as a private chef to the editor of Rolling Stone magazine among them. In addition, she serves on the National Advisory Board of Spoons Across America, and is a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier. Professor Schaible is the department chair of the Hospitality Management Department, and has researched topics such as the historical study of tearoom management schools in early 20th century New York City.


T-Z: 2018 Top Women in Metro New York Foodservice & Hospitality

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Brittany Tacopino 
JP Morgan Chase
New York, NY    VP Global Services

Jennie Tannura
Gotham City Hospitality
New York, NY    Sales

Natalie Tapken
B&B Winepub
New York, NY    Liquor & Spirits

Jennifer Tarfuri
Rotisserie Georgette
New York, NY    Chef

Rada Tarnovsky
Letter Grade Consulting
Brooklyn, NY    Food Safety

Andrea Tencza
Urban Expositions
Shelton, CT    Marketing

Meredith Tepper-Leckey Starr Catering
New York, NY    Caterer

Hong Thaimee
NGAM
New York, NY    Chef/Owner

Gretchen Thomas
Barcelona Wine Bar
New York, NY    Liquor & Spirits

Kristen Tomlan
DO
New York, NY    Founder/CEO

Christina Tosi
Milk Bar
New York, NY    Chef/Founder

Diane Tuckruskye
Nassau Rehabilitation & Nursing, New York, NY    Chef/Founder

Patrice Vassell,
Cut by Wolfgang Puck
New York, NY    Pastry Sous Chef

Victoria Vega
Unidine Corp
Boston, MA    Corporate Culinary

Bernadette Ventura
SHFM    Louisville, KY
Association

Candy Vidovich
Pomptonian Foods
Fairfield, NJ    Schools

Therese Virserius 
Virserius Studio
New York, NY    Design

Gina Volaric 
Unilever    Englewood Cliffs, NJ    Ice Cream

Tami Von Isakovics
Dinex Group
New York, NY    Marketing

Holly Von Seggern
HRV Marketing & Communications
Islandia, NY    B&I

Louise Vongerichten
Food Dreams Foundation
New York, NY    Founder

Erika Wasserman
Explore Cuisine
Red Bank, NJ    VP

Stephanie Webster
CT Bites
Stamford, CT    Media

Elizabeth Weiss
BHS Foodservice
Armonk, NY    Equipment & Supplies

Claire Welle
Otway
Brooklyn NY    Chef/Partner

Melissa Weller
Sadelle’s
New York, NY    Owner/Baker

Fatena Williams
Herald Square Hotel
New York,NY    GM

Jody Williams
Buvette / Via Carota
New York,NY    Chef/Owner

Laura Williamson
Mandarin Oriental
New York, NY    Hotel

Melba Wilson
Melba’s
New York, NY    Owner

Jane Witkin
Verjus
Maplewood, NJ    Chef/Owner

Marjorie Wolfson
Cook For Kids
White Plains, NY    Education

Kathleen Wood
Kathleen Wood Partners
New York, NY    Owner

Tren’ness Woods-Black 
Sylvia’s, New York, NY    VP, Communications

Karena Wu
Active Care Physical Therapists
New York, NY    Vendor

Pamela Yung
Semilla
New York, NY    Chef

Lana Trevisan 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Lana Trevisan, Two Roads Hospitality, New York, NY

Lana Trevisan is based in New York City, and holds the position of Vice President of Restaurants, Bars, and Nightlife for Two Roads Hospitality. In her role at Two Roads Hospitality, she oversees about twenty properties, and has opened a number of well-known establishments such as the Chicago Athletic Association, Thompson Playa Del Carmen, and The Beekman. Before joining Two Roads Hospitality, Trevisan was the Corporate Food and Beverage Director of Gansevoort Hotel Group. Her responsibilities included the management of all Food and Beverage operations at existing properties and those under development. Some of Trevisan’s notable projects consist of managing pre-opening and daily operations at establishments such as the Standard Grill, Boom Boom Room, and The Biergarten. Trevisan’s highly successful career started with Wolfgang Puck, where she opened and managed five restaurants in Las Vegas and Chicago.

Morgan Tucker 2018 Top Women in Foodservice


Morgan Tucker, Little M Tucker, Paterson, NJ

Morgan Tucker grew up in a family that built the largest foodservice distribution business on the East Coast, M. Tucker. Morgan decided to carry on the company, founded by her father and grandfather, and establish her own imprint, Little M Tucker. Little M Tucker provides specialized equipment and restaurant supplies to a growing hub of high-end restaurants in Manhattan. She’s also an expert on tabletop trends, and writes a monthly column for Total Food Service. After graduating with honors from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration in 2007, Morgan worked for New York’s Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group and Steve Hanson’s BR Guest Restaurant Group, before developing M. Tucker. After seven years in her family business, Morgan currently oversees a highly successful distribution sales team in the company, passionately serving Manhattan’s hottest operations under the Little M Tucker brand as Director of Business Development.

  • DAVO Sales Tax
  • RAK Porcelain
  • T&S Brass Eversteel Pre-Rinse Units
  • AyrKing Mixstir
  • RATIONAL USA
  • McKee Foodservice
  • BelGioioso Burrata
  • Day & Nite
  • Imperial Dade
  • Texas Pete
  • Red Gold Sacramento
  • Inline Plastics Safe-T-Chef
  • Simplot Frozen Avocado
  • Atosa USA

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