I am an accomplished chef whose unique work path has led me to understand that people are better off cooking and eating together. I believe that creating an environment for learning and connection through collaborative meal experiences benefits the relationships we value. Strengthening relationships is not a hard thing to manifest when the focus stays on creating simple food, done well. Fostering and developing shared family experiences in the kitchen, creates a bond that puts people on the same “team,” leaving no one individual with the onerous tasks of preparing and serving food to sometimes less than willing or grateful participants.

On the other end of the dysfunctional mealtime spectrum is the endless and wasteful cycle of ordering food of dubious quality from the effortless apps on our phones or the “fend for yourself” mentality, where individuals who live together don’t eat together. To create an environment of connection and joy, altering these now classic, outdated, and convenience-based dynamics becomes necessary. This is especially important when one parent plans meals, does the shopping, prepares the food, serves it, and even cleans up, with little or no interaction except possibly around the dinner table.

In supporting neurodivergent individuals, physically disabled individuals, and those with disordered eating, it’s crucial to create inclusive and supportive meal environments. I help to foster an environment where the pervasive norm centers on connection and love, accommodating diverse needs and preferences. Initial family instruction sessions are interactive and fun, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities or challenges, can participate fully.

Together, we will learn how to prepare and enjoy simple food done well, in an engaging, safe, and inclusive way.

Chef Sam Pride