xtraCHEF Recipe Card: Samantha Finkelstein

Let’s see what recipes make up the xtraCHEF team!

Samantha Finkelstein manages Strategic Partnerships and Culinary Solutions for xtraCHEF. We chatted with her to learn a bit about her background, get her take on company culture, and, of course, hear about her favorite restaurants in NYC.

What did you do before you came xtraCHEF?

I spent several years working with Hillstone Restaurant Group, managing just about every department for both Front and Back of House. I went on to do Food and Beverage Advisory at the Hospitality House and finally found my home with xtraCHEF.

What do you love about xtraCHEF?

I love that I can whole-heartedly stand behind our product. Having substantial restaurant operations experience, I immediately saw the value in xtraCHEF. The care that the company has for its customers, and for the hospitality industry as a whole, was evident from day one.

Additionally, I love our company culture. Our team is diverse, ranging in experience from restaurant operations to tech startups. I am constantly learning and growing by collaborating with different members of the team.

Why are you passionate about the restaurant industry?

I am passionate about hospitality. I am a people-person by nature and love that food brings people together. The ability to create an experience that makes strangers feel like family is something very special about this industry.

What do you like to do when you’re not at work?

You can find me and my Weimaraner, Sky, strolling the city, exploring new and/or funky restaurants with friends, or rooting for the Giants with a cold beer in hand!

What restaurant would you recommend to someone visiting New York?

Brooklyn Crab for the fun or Manhatta for the view!