Welcome to my world of culinary passion, social responsibility, and environmental consciousness. My name is Janet Irizarry, and for the past 30 years, I have dedicated my life to the restaurant business, witnessing firsthand its challenges and rewards. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to support local eateries and foster positive change, I founded Hudson Valley EATS seven years ago, with a vision to amplify restaurant exposure and connect them with eager new customers.

​

My journey in the hospitality industry began at a tender age of 15, where I discovered my love for the dynamic atmosphere of restaurants. Over the years, I honed my skills and gained a wealth of experience, eventually finding my calling as a seasoned hospitality industry consultant. Currently, I have the privilege of sharing my expertise as a hospitality instructor at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America's School of Business Management.

​

In 2017, I took a leap of faith and founded Hudson Valley EATS, a digital food community dedicated to promoting and supporting local food entrepreneurs. Fuelled by my unwavering passion for helping people and protecting the environment, our mission extends beyond mere culinary appreciation. I strive to ensure food accessibility, foster sustainable practices, and drive environmental protection.

​

One of the highlights of my career came in 2021 when I spearheaded two impactful community initiatives, showcasing my commitment to social responsibility. The first, "Cooking for a Cause," captivated the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts across the Hudson Valley. This initiative raised thousands of dollars for hunger relief through online cooking classes taught by top chefs from the region. It was a true celebration of gastronomic creativity, while simultaneously addressing a pressing social issue.

​

Building on the success of "Cooking for a Cause," we launched the "Hudson Valley Food Waste Challenge." This initiative aimed to reduce household "footprint" and raise awareness about the staggering amounts of food waste we generate. By encouraging mindful consumption and responsible disposal, we made significant strides in minimizing waste and promoting sustainable habits.

​

Inspired by these accomplishments, I embarked on a new endeavor called "The Food Waste Project." With this initiative, my goal is to educate and empower individuals to take control of their food consumption habits, ultimately reducing food waste. By making small, everyday changes, we can make a profound impact on the health of future generations and the well-being of our planet.

​

I firmly believe that people generally want to do the right thing, but often they need guidance and support to get started. Through Hudson Valley EATS, I am committed to bridging that gap, providing easy and enjoyable ways for individuals to contribute to local food-related issues. 

​

Join me on this journey as we blend the culinary arts, community engagement, and sustainable practices. Together, we can create a world where delicious food, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship harmoniously coexist. Let's savor every bite and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.