Lunch & Learn "Red, White & Food: A Journey Through American Cuisine"

Order lunch and explore the rich and diverse history of American cuisine with Convivium’s Culinary Resource Director, Chef Cena. What exactly is American food? It’s more than just a melting pot—it’s a dynamic blend of regional traditions, cultural influences, and historical events that have shaped the way we eat today. From Southern barbecue to New England seafood, Midwest comfort food to Southwest spice, discover how different regions contribute to the national food identity. Just in time for Independence Day, this session will highlight the foods that bring people together and define the American table.

For participants planning to order food to eat during the presentation, please plan to arrive 15-20 minutes ahead to place your order at the coffeeshop counter. Your lunch will then be brought to you in the Learning Center to enjoy while you learn!

Registration is appreciated but not required for this free program.

Instructor Bio: Cena Sharp, Convivium Urban Farmstead’s Culinary Resource Director*, is a talented chef and a true force of nature. Whether she’s leading one of her many cooking classes, processing harvests in the training kitchen, or gearing up for her next Lunch and Learn, Cena brings energy, enthusiasm, and a passion for sharing everything she knows about food.

She began her culinary career at the age of sixteen and went on to serve as executive chef in two kitchens. Along the way, she also earned a bachelor’s degree in history—a field she loves to intertwine with food in her engaging Lunch and Learn presentations.

Cena is an avid traveler, having explored Italy, Greece, France, and many parts of the U.S. Her travels continually inspire her creativity and deepen her appreciation for global cuisine. When she’s not at Convivium, Cena enjoys spending time with her husband, Ryan, and their four children: Dominic, Fiona, Evolette, and Sylvia.

*The Culinary Resource Director position is funded in part by a grant from the DRA.

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