08/18/2026
✨ A Journey Almost a Year in the Making… ✨
Almost a year ago, an incredible opportunity came my way. A casting company was searching for Philadelphia locals who had not only a recipe, but an inspiring story behind it. From hundreds of stories and recipes, ultimately 31 winners would be selected to have their recipes featured on the opening menu of a brand-new restaurant called Recipe Philly.
And somehow… my recipe was one of them! ❤️
Today, "Caesar Salad with Swiss Crisps" is officially on the menu at Recipe Philly, and I couldn’t be more grateful to the entire Recipe Philly team—not only for choosing my recipe, but for giving me the opportunity to share the personal story behind it.
From the audition, to casting, filming, and all of the excitement in between, to finally walking into the restaurant and seeing it all come to life… what an experience! So much fun, and something I will never forget.
For me, this was about so much more than a competition.
My Caesar salad has a story. I remember my father preparing Caesar salad tableside at home in my grandmother’s wooden bowl, which is now more than 70 years old. That bowl represented so much more than a serving dish. It meant family gathering together, love, laughter, friendship, and the anticipation of an incredibly delicious meal about to be served. Those are the moments that stay with you forever. ❤️
This experience also reminded me that everyone has a story to tell. Regardless of where we come from or what our background may be, there is always a story behind the things we create, the traditions we carry, and the memories we hold dear.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many of the other Recipe Philly participants, and I’ve absolutely loved hearing their stories and experiencing the incredible diversity that made this entire journey so special. Each recipe represents something personal, and together they tell such a beautiful Philadelphia story.
I’ve been part of competitions over the years, but this one meant something very different to me. It connected food, family, memories, culture, and community in a way I will forever hold close to my heart!
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Thank you, Recipe Philly!