Welcome to Emily’s Culinary Delights – A Journey of Flavors

Hi, I’m Emily Harper. I’m a chef, writer, and passionate advocate for the magic that happens when food brings people together.

I was born and raised in a small town in Vermont, where the kitchen was the heart of our home. My earliest memories are of standing on a stool beside my grandmother, watching her knead dough and listening to her stories about how each recipe had its own tale. Those moments ignited a spark in me—a love for cooking that was less about following recipes and more about creating experiences.

Life took me on a winding path. I pursued a degree in journalism and spent years in the fast-paced world of news reporting. While I loved telling stories, I often found myself yearning for the warmth of the kitchen, the comfort of a simmering pot, and the joy of sharing a meal.

At 35, after a particularly challenging year, I decided to take a leap of faith. I enrolled in culinary school, trading my press pass for a chef’s apron. It was one of the most terrifying and exhilarating decisions of my life.

Today, I run a cozy bistro in Portland, Oregon, where every dish has a story, and every guest is treated like family. My menu is a tapestry of my life’s journey—blending the rustic flavors of my New England roots with the diverse culinary influences I’ve embraced over the years.

Through this blog, I share not just recipes, but the narratives that make them special. From the heirloom tomato soup inspired by my mother’s garden to the spiced apple tart that reminds me of autumns in Vermont, each post is a piece of my heart.

Cooking, for me, is an act of love, a way to connect, heal, and celebrate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, I hope my stories and recipes inspire you to find joy in the kitchen and create your own delicious memories.

Welcome to my table.