Chef Sam M — Tiny Spoon Chef

Chef Sam brings passion, creativity, and a whole lot of flavor to every dish she creates.

Born and raised in Union, New Jersey, Sam’s love for cooking started early, helping her mom in the kitchen and finding pure satisfaction in chopping vegetables and trying new recipes she’d see on the Food Network. That early spark turned into full-fledged culinary ambition, leading her to earn a degree from Johnson & Wales University in Culinary Arts and a bachelor’s in Food Service Management.

When it comes to her own palate, Sam’s heart sings for sushi, Italian (she could eat pasta all day), fresh seafood, and the bold, vibrant flavors of South American and Caribbean cuisine. And while onions might bring her to tears, it’s all part of the magic she creates in the kitchen — her ultimate happy place, where good smells and great flavors come to life.

Sam’s journey has taken her through some incredible kitchens, including working alongside celebrity chef David Burke. One of her proudest moments? Preparing 200 perfect Beef Wellingtons on Christmas Eve — a labor-intensive feat she tackled with skill and precision. (Spoiler: Every single one came out flawless.)

When she’s not cooking up a storm, you’ll find Sam staying active with runs, gym sessions, and long walks with her English bulldog, Tyson — a four-year-old baby at heart. She’s also an island enthusiast, having explored Costa Rica, Jamaica, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, and Antigua, with many more tropical adventures on her list.

Sam’s kitchen philosophy? It’s her therapy, her lab, and her creative space. With every dish, she’s not just cooking — she’s sharing a piece of her heart, one perfect bite at a time.