Dominic Finzo from The Screen Door restaurant in Portland joins us to talk about the iconic restaurant's 20th anniversary, which they will commemorate in 2026. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Dominic's earliest memories are steeped in the comforting rhythm of Southern life—where supper was always on the table, and love was served warm by the hands of his grandparents who raised him. It was in their kitchen that Dominic first felt the magic of food—the way a meal could bring people together and make them feel cared for. That connection lit a fire in him, and from a young age, he knew that cooking was more than just a skill—it was a calling. Dominic sought out mentors and chefs who would help shape his path. His journey took him from Tennessee to Montreal, across Germany, Denmark, and France, then to Maui, and finally to Portland, Oregon. Along the way, he honed his craft in some of the most respected kitchens, mastering techniques and immersing himself in diverse culinary traditions.

Yet, no matter how far he traveled or how many flavors he explored, Dominic's heart remained tethered to the soulful food of his Southern roots. When he joined the Screen Door team, it felt like a homecoming—a full-circle moment where he could merge the rich traditions of his upbringing with the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.

www.screendoorrestaurant.com

@screendoorrestaurant

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