Amanda Summer

Amanda Hesser, born in 1971, is an American figure in the culinary world, recognized for her work as a food writer, editor, and entrepreneur. She held significant roles at The New York Times, including food editor for the Magazine and editor of T Living. Her tenure at the Times saw her author over 750 stories, covering diverse topics from the wine industry's connection to Costco to the workings of the New York City Greenmarket. She was also among the first American journalists to feature Ferran Adrià. Hesser is also known for co-founding Food52, a successful culinary website and company.

Her career has not been without scrutiny; Hesser was involved in two instances of conflict of interest while at The New York Times, which were subsequently noted by the publication. After leaving the Times in 2008 to concentrate on Food52, she continued to contribute a column. As co-founder and CEO of Food52, she has secured investment and led the company to numerous awards, including a James Beard Foundation Award. In 2017, she addressed the lack of racial diversity within her company, committing to improvements and reporting on progress.

Amanda Hesser established herself as a prominent food writer and editor, notably during her time at The New York Times. She served as the food editor for The New York Times Magazine and helmed T Living, a quarterly publication. Throughout her career with the Times, Hesser penned more than 750 articles, exploring a wide range of food-related subjects. Her reporting included analyses of market dynamics, such as the impact of Costco on the wine sector, and the decision-making processes within the New York City Greenmarket via its Farmer Consumer Advisory Committee. She also gained recognition for being one of the earliest American writers to cover the influential chef Ferran Adrià of El Bulli.

In 2008, Hesser transitioned from her role at The New York Times to dedicate her efforts to the development of Food52, a company she co-founded. As CEO, she has successfully steered the company, securing multiple rounds of investment from notable venture capital firms. Under her leadership, Food52 has garnered significant acclaim, receiving prestigious awards such as the James Beard Foundation Award for Publication of the Year in 2012 and the International Association of Culinary Professionals Award for Best Website in 2013. Hesser has also been proactive in addressing issues of diversity within her company, publicly acknowledging and working to rectify a lack of racial equality in the workplace.

Hesser is a prolific author, with a bibliography that includes cookbooks, edited collections, and contributions to anthologies. Her book, 'The Essential New York Times Cookbook,' achieved bestseller status. Her work has been recognized through various accolades, including being named to Food & Wine's 40 under 40 list and Gourmet magazine's list of the 50 most influential women in food. She even made a cameo appearance as herself in the film 'Julie & Julia.' Hesser resides in Brooklyn Heights with her husband, Tad Friend, a writer for The New Yorker, and their two children.