Introducing Julia Deane, Executive Chef at Culinary Works https://culinaryworks.com
in New Canaan and Stamford. Julia is a New Canaan resident, mother of three, home chef and cooking instructor. She teaches groups ranging from children and families to friends and coworkers, so they can gain hands-on cooking experience in a fun, social environment. Read more about Julia and find out her favorite local restaurants and other gathering places.
HOW MANY KIDS DO YOU HAVE AND WHAT ARE THEIR AGES?
I have three children – twins 20, Brooke and Mac and Griffin 16
WHAT BROUGHT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO TOWN?
My husband Peter is a third-generation New Canaanite and is the principal as well as a designer at DEANE Inc, a local custom cabinetry business.
WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO START CULINARY WORKS?
I always loved to cook and entertain and with my sales background, I knew I could teach people on an approachable level and make it fun.
BEST PART ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It is great being an inspiration to people. Cooking can be intimidating for some people and I love helping boost their confidence and skills.
GO-TO MEALS/RECIPES TO COOK FOR YOUR OWN FAMILY?
Whatever I have on hand. I cook seasonally and I am constantly trying out new recipes.
HOW DO YOU SUGGEST GETTING CHILDREN INTERESTED IN COOKING AND TEACHING THEM THE BASICS?
It starts by consistently cooking yourself and I think it happens organically, setting the table, stir the pot, add the salt, the cheese, taste the sauce, etc. At the same time you are just having a normal conversation. But if you are not cooking yourself, they will not get the exposure. Having it be a normal “thing” will breed more togetherness and allow them to feel like it is normal to help out.
WHAT’S YOUR GUILTY-PLEASURE MEAL?
Pasta, but I do not eat it often enough.
FAVORITE FAMILY ACTIVITY IN TOWN?
Watching our kids compete in sports. Go NC Rams!
HOW DO YOU UNWIND WHEN YOU NEED SOME “ME TIME?”
I love to listen to music, walk my dog Dewey, relax on our outside patio and or by the pool. But typically something outside whenever possible.
ANY WORDS TO LIVE BY?
Carpe Diem
DO YOU HAVE ANY HIDDEN TALENTS?
Hmm… that is why they are hidden!
WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE GOTTEN FROM ANOTHER MOM?
My mother…Do not sweat the small stuff.
FAVORITE BAND, BOOK, TV SHOW…
I love John Mayer and lots of other genres of music, I love books, tv shows vary, but we watch a lot of sports.
WE LOVE SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES. FAVORITE PLACES IN TOWN TO…
HAVE DINNER WITH/WITHOUT KIDS:
Usually, one of Nick’s restaurants like South End http://southendnewcanaan.com or Uncorked http://seuncorked.com or the bar at Tequila Mockingbird https://www.tequilamockingbirdnc.com and Spiga http://www.eatatspiga.com too.
GRAB A DRINK WITH FRIENDS:
White Buffalo https://www.facebook.com/thewhitebuffalonc/ or Elm https://www.elmrestaurant.com
HAVE A DATE NIGHT:
We are not very picky. New Canaan has so many great restaurants, and we love to support all of them.
SPEND TIME TOGETHER AS A FAMILY INDOORS/OUTDOORS:
If I am with my family, my favorite place to be is in my own house.
SHOP FOR YOURSELF/SHOP FOR YOUR KIDS:
Togs https://www.facebook.com/TOGSCT
SPA/SALON (OR ANYWHERE YOU GO TO TREAT YOURSELF):
True Grace http://truegracespa.com
GRAB COFFEE:
Zumbachs—it is the best! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zumbachs-Gourmet-Coffee/143497329018233