Samantha Facciolo

• Her lifelong quest for the perfect tomato led her to plant her first garden many years ago, and she has planted gardens in multiple homes and states since.
• Raised by three generations of female chefs, she translates her passion for a good meal into tips and explorations to benefit other cooks.
• Driven to explore the intersectionality of culture and cuisine, she has written about topics as varied as landmark restaurants involved with the Civil Rights Movement, wineries benefitting individuals with disabilities, and 100-year-old Italian bakeries in the Bronx.

Experience

Samantha's passions have always revolved around writing and food, so it makes sense that she would end up in a role where she can pursue both. Raised by multiple generations of chefs, her first job as a young girl was in a resort town's candy store. From there, she worked in sandwich shops, restaurants, bars, catering halls, and even food trucks before they were de rigueur. During college and beyond, her studies in international relations and work took her to South America, Western Europe, and the Middle East, where she embraced local ingredients and culinary traditions. Once back in the States, she began writing about the intersections of culture and cuisine for publications including The Culture-ist, Edible Communities, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, and The Spruce Eats. In addition to exploring food histories and finding satisfying and healthy ways to connect with local--or international--food traditions, she is passionate about the transformative effects the food industry can have on individuals and communities. Ultimately, she believes food and cooking are an intrinsic instrument of connection.

Education

Samantha holds a master's degree in fine arts in creative writing from New York University and a bachelor's degree in international studies and Spanish translation.