about annette & lisa
Serendipity brought us together…
How else can we explain it? A chance meeting during an online networking meet-up for hospitality professionals turned into a spark of genius! We clicked immediately, finding wonderful synergies in our philosophy and approach to creating off-beat and engaging food and drink experiences.
After that first call, there was no stopping us!
We dove right in… creating fun and engaging classes, interactive workshops, lively presentations, and immersive food and drink experiences. We combine our love of history, culture, and lore with delicious food and drinks for a (very) diverse set of clients.
Neither of us backs down from a good challenge, and our first in-person booking as a duo was a big one! Just weeks into our new business partnership, we were off on a momentous voyage celebrating Holland America Line’s 150th Anniversary on a transatlantic crossing from New York to Rotterdam. Over the course of a week we presented a series of innovative lectures about the fascinating history of the foods and spirits connecting The Netherlands and “New Netherland”–all on the World Stage of HAL’s stunning flagship MS Rotterdam.
As we continue to plot the course of our new enterprise, we are intently focused on bring our uniquely fun, interactive, and innovative programming to a global audience. From uncovering the quirky local food histories of small towns in Western Pennsylvania, to the rich agricultural history of New York’s Hudson Valley, to beautifully curated food and drink excursions to off-the-beaten-path historical sites of Scotland – and beyond! We’re just getting started…
And we’re honored to have you join us on this delicious adventure – cheers!
nice things people say
“Lisa collaborated with us on the development and execution of the final piece for our Rebellious Spirits Tour. During the tour, guests participated in a mixology course featuring Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey. Not only did Lisa provide a wealth of knowledge, but also a great energy to keep the guests engaged and having fun. She is courteous, professional, and truly passionate in what she does. We can’t wait to work with her again in the future.”
Jaimie Hanson, Manager of Tourism, Rivers of Steel
“…a great interactive course where you learn how to cook some amazing dishes and craft delicious drinks while you interact and learn from professionals who are excited to share their passion with you…. It was great to watch Annette & Lisa do their craft, whether it was cooking or crafting drinks… like watching my own private cooking show from my home!”
Katie R., student in Bigtime Apples class
“I really enjoyed Annette’s class through the 92nd Street Y and Kitchen Arts & Letters. It was fun to try new dishes from the chosen cookbooks and discussing them at the next class. It gave me the opportunity to read new cookbooks and try new dishes. Annette is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable teacher and chef and she is open and willing to share her experiences in the kitchen.”
Anonymous, member of Cookbook Club with Annette Tomei
Let’s create an experience!
