Five Questions with AF Chef Tony Cascino

Tony has been with Global Partners, LP for almost two years and currently serves as the Field Support and Culinary Analytics Manager for Alltown Fresh. In this role, Tony is responsible for Alltown Fresh databases, analytics and works within the Culinary CORE team on menu execution, events and catering. Prior to coming on board with Global, he was a Corporate Executive Chef with over 28 years of experience in culinary.

 

What career accomplishment are you most proud of?

There are two:

I was lucky enough to cook with Julia Child and teach a course at Boston University with her. Personally cooking an egg with Julia was mind blowing!

I’ve cooked for dignitaries, Prime Ministers and three presidents. Cooking twice for President Obama, with Secret Service over my shoulder, and being able to shake the man’s hand was really fantastic.

Who has made the biggest impact in your life?

My mentor, Nole Cullen. I was his apprentice for 5 years until he passed away in 2002. I never realized the impact he had on me until many years later, and I continuously still want to ask for his advice. I was lucky enough to work in Ireland, his home country, in 2017 and visit his burial site for the first time. I still have a handful of gravel from the site next to my bed.

What is your favorite quote?

“Better to have and not need then to want and not have.”– unknown

It’s always better to be prepared and stocked for unfortunate circumstances.

What book are you currently reading?

The Data Detective by Tim Harford.  This is a great book that easily explains understanding and not being manipulated by statistical data.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?

The simplest are the best! When I have all my personals in a row, I take my puppy to a hidden pond to swim. Swimming in a pond with a dog is exceptionally calming and relaxing.

What is something you can’t leave the house without?

A pocket knife. It’s a utility tool that comes in handy in so many places.

What is your favorite movie?

This changes all the time, but the constant is Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid. Paul Newman and Robert Redford in a western; no more needs to be said.