Welcome to my kitchen!

About Us : Hi there! I’m Julie D. Smith, born on a warm summer’s day, June 2, 1980, in a quaint town near the Black Forest in Germany. I’m a proud Gemini, which might explain my boundless curiosity and love for all things culinary. I’m 5’1″ tall, but don’t let my height fool you—I’ve got big flavors and even bigger dreams.

My roots are a beautiful mix of cultures. My father, an adventurous American from the Midwest, met my German mother while backpacking through Europe in the late ’70s. Growing up in a bicultural home meant our kitchen was always buzzing with a fascinating fusion of bratwurst and barbecue, pretzels and pecan pie. That mix of traditions became the heartbeat of my cooking.

When I was 18, our family packed up and moved across the Atlantic to the United States. It was a whirlwind of emotions—leaving behind the cobblestone streets of my childhood and stepping into the sprawling suburbs of Illinois with my parents and my little brother in tow. It was here that I truly began to explore cooking as more than just a family ritual. I started experimenting, blending my German heritage with American comfort food, always trying to tell a story through each dish.

In my twenties, I worked in several bustling American kitchens—from cozy little diners to upscale restaurants. I was always eager to learn, constantly striving to create new recipes and invent delicious dishes. Cooking, for me, is not just about preparing food; it’s an art filled with emotion and a message of self-expression. Every dish I prepare carries a personal touch, reflecting my feelings and imagination. It’s a joy that begins with selecting the ingredients and ends with the happiness I see in the eyes of those who taste it.

I currently live in New York City, where I run a small catering company and teach weekend cooking classes exclusively for women. I believe the kitchen is more than just a place to cook—it’s a space for empowerment and discovery. My goal is to inspire women to cook with passion, embrace their cultural roots, and savor unique flavors that promote health and bring deep joy and satisfaction.

Every recipe I share tells a story, recalls a memory, or celebrates a joyful moment. So if you’re looking for a touch of German soul, American spirit, and plenty of beloved flavors—welcome to my kitchen. Let’s cook something extraordinary together.