Chef Danielle Santaniello preparing food in her kitchen

The SoFo Spoon

Chef Danielle Santaniello

Executive Chef & Founder

I wholeheartedly believe that the absolute best moments of our lives take place around a table with good food, family and friends. There is something so incredibly nostalgic about the little things we remember about food. The smell of browning butter on a gas stove top, the first bite of a sweet homegrown tomato, or the sound of the ice cream truck on a hot summer's day. These are moments I hope to create for clients to make memories that last a lifetime. It's an honor and a privilege to be able to share my passion with others every day of my life. My approach to food is simple—cook what is seasonal, cook what tastes good, and always end on a sweet note. The Sofo (South Fork) Spoon was born in 2017 and is a full service private chef and event production company. I am proud to work with a talented team of chefs and hospitality professionals who share my passion and vision for this industry.

Everyday Life

I was born and raised on Long Island and still reside here with my two children. I am an avid cycler and love to travel. Self-care and overall wellness are things I enjoy taking part in daily. My life consists of spending as much time as possible enjoying the company of friends and family and of course, cooking.

Education

I earned my culinary and pastry education at The International Culinary Center, formerly The French Culinary Institute in New York City. I graduated with distinction in 2013 from three programs including Classic French Pastry, Cake Design, & Culinary Techniques. My early career was spent in the kitchens of high end catering facilities throughout NYC. I later ran the culinary program for Long Island's Sur La Table. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for working with clients one on one for private events.

Awards & Nominations

I appeared on the second season of Food Network's Bakers vs. Fakers in 2018. I won over the judges with my creative play on coffee and doughnuts and took home the prize.

Our Team

Chef Kelsie Reynolds

Lead Event Chef Director of Administration & Event Coordination

Chef Teresa Daniele

Event Chef

Chef Anthony Mazzella

Event Chef

Chef Olivier Francois

Event Chef

Chef Maya Boone

Assistant Event Chef

Kaitlin Elster

Event Manager

Lauren Santaniello

Bridal Attendant + Event Assistant

Sarah Gardiner

Bartender

Sania Malisa

Bartender

Cory Mahony

Bartender

Jake DeRobertis

Event Assistant

Gen Johnson

Event Assistant

Zach Daniele

Event Manager

Ryan Mancuso

Event Assistant