ABOUT CHEF RYAN SMITH...
Chef Ryan has over 15 years of experience in fine dining, including 8 years immersed in the NY food and wine scene, most notably as the Executive Chef and Head Wine Educator of New York Vintners, where he collaborated regularly with some of the world's best winemakers as well as artists, actors, and musicians to create what he calls "alternative dining experiences." In October 2016, he moved to London for a 16 month residency, using it as a staging ground to travel Europe, stoke his creative flames and do what he loves most - curate epic experiences around food and wine. Now back in NY, he has founded his own venture, Fork & Saber, focusing on special events, wine education, as well as restaurant and private wine consulting.
Chef Ryan has taught hundreds of wine classes, and has an amazing ability to break the complicated world of wine down in a laid back and fun way. He holds a Level 3 advanced certificate from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and is currently pursuing the Level 4 Diploma.
“I think it’s important for chefs to look beyond just the food. With everything I do, I’m not only trying to create amazing food but a total experience. Your guests don’t get to keep the food you create — the only thing they get to take with them is the memory of the evening. The food is just the starting point.” Chef Ryan Smith"
"Ryan (aside from being hilarious) was extremely knowledgeable about wine and was completely open to answering our silly questions. Ryan facilitates good interactive conversation while giving guidance as to what makes wine taste certain ways. By the end I learned exactly what I wanted"
Kevin M - Yelp