Hometown: Orange, CT

Culinary Training: Culinary Institute of America (1981)

Foodservice Experience: Former Manager and Director of Food Services in business and campus dining operations in the New York tri-state area; owned and managed various foodservice companies including BAC Inc., Fleet Bank Executive Dining Services, Megavents, M & T Delicatessen and Brian Averna Catering; Past Member of the Culinary Institute of America’s Board of Directors Alumni Committee

Favorite Sara Lee Product: Hillshire Farm Fully Cooked Prime Rib #17338

Menu Development Philosophy: I cook the way I eat; I  keep it clean, use genuine and authentic ingredients and enjoy the fusion of various ethnic products and cuisines. Mixing flavor profiles such as hot and sweet, light and complex is always a great challenge.

Other Fun Facts: Brian has appeared on several television shows including The Today Show, The Tony Danza Show, Paula Deen’s Paula’s Party, Rachael Ray Show, MSNBC, ESPN and QVC.