5: Adventures with La Spiga Part III

Send us a text

**Introduction**  
In this episode, we're joined by Executive Chef Sabrina Tinsley, known for her work at La Spiga, an iconic Italian restaurant. Her journey takes us from Alaska to Europe and culminates in co-founding La Spiga in Seattle, Washington, showcasing her adventurous life and culinary excellence.

**Alaskan Roots**  
Sabrina's childhood in Fairbanks, Alaska, centered around outdoor adventures like dog sledding and fishing with her father, sparking her love for nature and cooking.

**Transition to Michigan and College**  
After moving to Michigan, Sabrina's passion for cooking grew while caring for her grandfather. Despite starting in Elementary Education, she gravitated towards culinary arts at Michigan State University.

**European Odyssey**  
Sabrina's educational path led her to France, where she discovered her love for European cuisine. A chance encounter in Austria with Pietro Berg, AZ, set the stage for a life-changing connection.

**Fateful Connection**  
A missed bus in Salzburg led Sabrina to Pietro, sparking a deep connection that prompted her move to Italy to be with him.

- **Embracing French Culture:** Immersed in a French college town, Sabrina tackled the language barrier to delve deeper into French culture.

- **European Gastronomy:** She admired the artistry and freshness of European food, especially in France, leaving a lasting impression.

- **Magical Encounters in Salzburg:** Sabrina's serendipitous meeting with Pietro in Salzburg led to missed buses and a captivating connection.

- **A Love Story Unfolds:** From missed buses to weekends together, Sabrina's decision to be with Pietro marked a significant chapter.

- **Culinary Entrepreneurship:** Settling in Italy, Sabrina and Pietro ventured into culinary entrepreneurship, establishing Le Spega, a successful piadina shop.

- **Professional Growth:** Participating in the James Beard Foundation program validated Sabrina's instincts, offering insights into business growth.

- **Field to Table Experience:** Sabrina showcased her culinary expertise at Sound Excursions' Field to Table event alongside esteemed chefs.

- **Mentorship and Passion:** As an executive chef, Sabrina mentors young talents, especially women of color, inspiring the next generation.

- **The Essence of La Spiga:** Focused on authentic Emilia Romagna cuisine, La Spiga embodies fresh flavors and traditional Italian dishes with a refined touch.

- **Kitchen Mishaps:** Sabrina recalls intense yet humorous kitchen moments, including a pasta cooker disaster during a hectic service.

- **Chef's Advice:** She advises aspiring chefs to gain practical experience, emphasizing the diverse opportunities and personal commitment in the culinary

Season2

Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost.

IG: themindfulwok

Support the show

Your support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast.

Your donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally.
https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_US

Share your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review.
https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/

Volunteer contact [e-mail]

Connect with our Culinary Stories:
https://linktr.ee/voice4chef