CHEF MICHELE RAGUSSIS

Michele Ragussis, 42 (Brooklyn, N.Y.), grew up in an Italian/Greek family where food was, and still is, a big part of their lives. She fell in love with the New England lifestyle and cuisine when she moved to Rhode Island to attend college. After deciding that hands-on restaurant experience was more valuable to her than attending classes, Michele went on to spend 15 years in executive chef positions. Her distinctive tattoos and piercings may look intimidating, but Michele’s personality is warm, relaxed and fun.