I have spent the majority of my life in the restaurant business, from the early days at ‘All Good Things’ learning how to flip pancakes and prepare lobsters in New Hampshire compliments of the Audino family, to running a Relais & Chateaux property on Martha’s Vineyard, and many in between. The industry has taught me a lot, and continues to do so as my family and I have made the move in recent years to Pittsburgh, PA. One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a chef is having the opportunity to teach others all I have learned throughout my career, and to continue to learn as I move forward. 
Before getting married my wife, Emily, and I took an unforgettable trip to Italy where we traveled around the countryside working for a place to sleep. We visited many restaurants, wineries, cheese-makers, olive oil producers, butchers, farmers and more. One of my next ventures is going to aim to share this experience with a great group of curious travelers. With the help of Giacomo & Federico, family in Italy, I am planning a culinary tour throughout the region based in Amelia, Umbria. The goal is to get a behind the scenes look into the culture, culinary world, and history of the amazing small towns and villages throughout the region while connecting with various food and beverage experts along the way. There will be wine tastings, cooking classes, food demonstrations, and so much more. We are looking to finalize plans for our first trip in early spring 2020. Space is very limited for this once in a lifetime opportunity experience, if you have any interest, send me an email to chefjustinmelnick@gmail.com with the subject line ‘Umbria’ and I will keep you posted with details. In the meantime, be on the lookout for various cooking classes, and a possible new restaurant opening in the near future…STAY TUNED!!!
Enjoy Food, Friends, & Life
Justin Melnick @chefmelnick
The Shredded Carrot 