Annie, a Salem native, has dedicated the past 17 years to the hospitality industry across the US and France.

After graduating from Salem High School, Annie moved to New York to attend The Culinary Institute of America. As part of her training, she spent a summer working at the Michelin-Starred “Naha” in Chicago and fell in love with the city. Upon graduation, she moved to Chicago to start her professional career as a line cook with a young and growing restaurant group, Hogsalt Hospitality.

At the time Hogsalt had just 3 locations under its umbrella. In a few short years Annie worked her way to Chef of Hogsalt’s revered “Au Cheval” helping to earn the restaurant the prestigious title of “The Best Burger in America.” She continued to progress through the company from Chef to Culinary Director and ultimately, Executive Culinary Director overseeing the opening and daily operations of over 20 restaurant concepts throughout Chicago, New York City, and Paris.

After 8 years in Chicago, Annie decided she wanted to be closer to home and took a position with the Richard DeShantz Restaurant Group in Pittsburgh. In her role as Director of Operations, her knowledge of restaurants has expanded far beyond the workings of the kitchen. In just 4 years Annie has navigated restaurant closings due to Covid restrictions, restaurant re-openings in the years following, overseeing the openings of 5 new concepts, all while directing the daily operations of the groups 9 award winning restaurants throughout downtown Pittsburgh.

Armed with years of complex experience, numerous accolades from outlets including The Food Network, and a deep passion for the community of Salem, Ohio, Annie is excited to see her dream of opening her own restaurant in her hometown become a reality!