Tastemaker Ann Kirk
WHERE TO FIND HER: As the pastry chef at Little Dom’s Restaurant, I design menus and oversee production for Little Dom’s Restaurant and Deli, Dominick’s Restaurant on Beverly Blvd., and the 101 Coffee Shop on Franklin Ave.
HOW SHE GOT THERE: My mom and I spent a lot of time in the kitchen together when I was growing up, especially during the holidays. She encouraged me to make dinner once a week…ha! I think she was over it…but even back then I had more of a leaning toward pastry. I would much rather have spent my time making spritz cookies than pulling out the giblets and stuffing a turkey! I was also incredibly fortunate to gain the majority of my training at Lucques under then Pastry Chef Kimberly Sklar. She pushed me to build and refine my palate by tasting everything, reading lots of cookbooks, and dining out as much as possible.
WHY SHE LIKES IT: I love that cooking, baking especially, is a perfect balance between science and creativity.
WHAT MAKES LITTLE DOM’S UNIQUE: First, we have a deli adjacent to the restaurant that’s open from 7am to 6pm selling italian style deli and panini sandwiches, focaccia, salads, fresh pastas, sauces, olives, meats and cheeses…and pastries, confections, and gelatos with delicious groundwork coffee and mighty leaf tea! I am also a big believer in desserts not being too sweet. I constantly taste and work on components until I’m happy with the balance. They pair better with wine that way! Did I mention we have flight night at Little Dom’s on Wednesday nights hosted by Susan Brink? Come join us!
ADVICE FOR INDUSTRY HOPEFULS: Do an internship first! Find out if It’s what you really want to do before you invest a lot of time and money. Working in a kitchen can be really tough mentally and physically. Take it for a spin first and see if it’s right for you!
PERFECT DAY OFF: Lunch or dinner plans with friends or family, the rest I like to leave open for whatever strikes my curiosity! Also, knowing I have a stash of chocolate somewhere…that’s comforting.
Do you know Ann? Leave comments below.
