School
University of Colorado Boulder, Manhattanville College
Expertise
Hospitality, DIY Cooking & Mixology, Food History
- A front-of-house service industry veteran, she's worked for James Beard-nominated chefs from coast to coast.
- She's a big proponent of the "Slow Food" philosophy — similar to "Farm-to-Table" practices — its main principles promote local and seasonal consumption, fair market practices, and food sustainability.
- An inspired mixologist, she designed the cocktail menu for her wedding, creating four signature, crowd-pleasing, and whimsically gothic drinks.
Experience
Xenia, the daughter of a chef/restauranteur duo, has been immersed in the food and beverage industry from a young age. In 2013, she helped her parents open their third restaurant, an après ski tavern in Vermont, designing a bar program that featured seasonally inspired craft cocktails. While an art student in the foodie city of Philadelphia, Xenia developed a deep interest in the intersections of food, history, and culture, and she sought out ethnic culinary traditions during her travels across the country. An avid home cook with a love for hospitality, Xenia regularly hosts dinner parties for friends, modernizing her family's old-world scratch recipes and mixing up signature cocktails to pair with them.
Education
Xenia has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Colorado Boulder in ethnic studies and a Masters of Fine Arts degree from Manhattanville College in creative writing.
Tasting Table’s editorial coverage hails from a veteran group of writers and editors with expertise in their respective fields in the food and drink, hospitality, and agriculture industries. Outside experts are also consulted to help deliver factual, up-to-date information and original recipes.
We strive to publish knowledgeable, engaging articles to give readers the information they're looking for, whether that is the news of the day; cooking tips, tricks, and trends; or reviews and recommendations. In an effort to provide the most comprehensive, current, and accurate content, our team is constantly reviewing and updating articles as necessary. Click here for more information on our editorial process.
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Beer and Wine
By Xenia Turner
Did you ever wonder what the differences are between organic, natural, and biodynamic wines? Take a look at our guide so you can easily decode these wine terms.
By Xenia Turner
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Shrubs are having a bit of a resurgence due to the popularity of craft cocktails. Before you take a sip, learn about this refreshing drink with ancient roots.
By Xenia Turner
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There are many creative ways to jazz up a cocktail, but we suggest starting with something as basic as finding ingredients to elevate simple syrup.
By Xenia Turner
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The slow and steady rise of the popularity of mezcal has opened the door to plenty of possibilities. Try subbing it in on these favorite cocktails.
By Xenia Turner
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Aquavit is a popular and traditional drink in Scandinavia. Learn about the history of the spirit, how it's made, and how people throughout Scandinavia enjoy it.
By Xenia Turner
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World Cuisines
By Xenia Turner
From delicate pintxos to hearty steaks, sample the Basque region's fresh ingredients and potent flavors with these essential dishes.
By Xenia Turner
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Amari are a category of Italian spirits that are bold with flavor, aroma, and history. Made from varying botanicals and herbs, you should know these key types.
By Xenia Turner
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There's nothing quite as refreshing as taking a huge bite out of a juicy watermelon. Incorporate this red, sweet fruit into your next summer cocktail.
By Xenia Turner
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There are a few must-have glasses every home bar should have — find out which ones a bartender recommends for everyday cocktails and entertaining.
By Xenia Turner
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World Cuisines
By Xenia Turner
Halloumi is a squeaky, rubbery cheese that hails from Cyprus. It's unique texture and salty taste make it perfect for grilling and frying. Here's what to know.
By Xenia Turner
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Not all gin is created the same and different flavor profiles can affect your cocktails final expression. Here's what to know about different gin styles.
By Xenia Turner
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Restaurants
By Xenia Turner
Take an unforgettable trip to Niagara Falls and dine at these top riverside restaurants that offer unobstructed views of the river’s breathtaking cascades.
By Xenia Turner
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Every professional chef has a roster of kitchen tools that are always at their fingertips. These are the tools Anthony Bourdain always kept handy.
By Xenia Turner
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Dunkin' has an extensive menu of beverages for any time of day. When mixed with a spirit or two, they can even work as the base for a tasty tipple.
By Xenia Turner
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With so many tequilas on the market, it can seem like luxury brands are just fancy bottles without substance. Some brands, however, warrant their high price.
By Xenia Turner
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If you're unsure how to use that leftover can of coconut milk that's hanging around in the pantry, these classic cocktails offer a few easy (and exciting) ways.
By Xenia Turner
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