Chef Spotlight: Chef Craig Rispoli of fresh&co in NYC

Craig Rispoli is a renowned chef with more than a decade of high volume production, restaurant, retail, R&D, and catering experience. Having previously worked with Gourmet Boutique, Financier Patisserie, Dean & DeLuca, and Fresh Direct amongst others, Chef Rispoli recently joined fresh&co as the Executive Chef leading the culinary development and innovation team. At fresh&co Chef Craig will oversee all seasonal menu roll-outs, menu enhancements, and recipe development for all corporate and franchise locations.

Broadwayworld.com had the pleasure of interviewing Chef Rispoli for our "Chef Spotlight."

What was your earliest interest in cooking?

Coming from a large Italian family, food has always been an integral part of any event or gathering. My first memory goes back to me sitting in a stroller with my mom back in the late 80s. She was eating a mango and I was so excited to try! I made a complete mess of myself, but the flavor and texture of that perfect piece of fruit was like a firework in my brain- and then I got to the pit! It was the largest pit I had ever seen! It was so intriguing to me- I was hooked on food ever since.

Who were some of your career mentors? They may be personal like family members or professionals you have met in your schooling or work.

Bond, James Bond, and my mom.

What culinary styles have influenced your career? You can mention ethnic specialties or the types of food you enjoy preparing and presenting.

I truly enjoy all things culinary and have a deep appreciation for all techniques and genres. Having traveled extensively through Asia I may have a bit of a preference towards Asian cuisines, particularly Korean, Japanese, and Filipino. You can see the hallmarks of these cuisines in many of my dishes.

What do you consider the most distinguishing features of your work as a chef?

I believe in simplicity- less is more. With proper techniques and fresh seasonal ingredients handled properly, it is hard to go wrong.

What is your favorite meal?

Unfair question, similar to asking who is your favorite child.

Tell me a little bit about your restaurant for our readers.

Founded in 2010 and currently operating 19 restaurants, fresh&co was established to answer the consumer demand for healthier food options that are easily accessible and affordable. Our chef-inspired menu uses seasonal, local and organic ingredients from carefully chosen suppliers to create flavorful meals that accommodate an array of dietary choices and needs. In addition to sourcing from local growers, we acquired our own farm in Orient, New York where we supply fruits and vegetables directly to our NYC restaurants. We have designed a natural, healthy, and delicious menu from salads and quinoa bowls to homemade soups, fresh-made sandwiches and cold-pressed juices and are the go-to spot for those who want a fresh, nutritious meal.

For more information on fresh&co, their menus, and to find a location near you, please visit their web site at: http://www.freshandco.com/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Chef Craig Rispoli

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