Get to know: Chef Jaime Laurita

BARRINGTON – What started as one Italian/New Jersey-raised chef's idea to pair food and wine with a good fashion sense is growing into a nationwide phenomenon – all that Chef Jaime Laurita could have hoped for.

Laurita told Barrington Suburban Life reporter Tarah Thorne what drew him to the Barrington area for his personal residency, and a launching mat for Chef Jaime Laurita Brands.

Q. Growing up on the east coast, what has drawn you to the Barrington area? How is it similar/different?

Barrington is completely different than the east coast. The Barrington area has more wide open spaces and is more horse country. I believe that Barrington has an energy that is classic, like a Ralph Lauren sweater.

Q. Is Barrington a good area for food and wine appreciation?

Barrington is known for its quality schools, quality establishments and quality wine. I believe the people here have a palette for the finer things in life. Food, wine and my products fit right in.

Q.  How would you describe a fashionable food line, and yours specifically?  Where did this idea come from?

For many years, I spent time cruising the grocery aisles of the country's finer grocery stores and basic grocery stores. To me, everything started looking the same and people were all following each other's ideas. The Italian section specifically was all yellow and red.

Because I love fashion, style and beauty, I had an idea to do something avante garde in the food industry. My goal was to bring fashionable packaging to shelves and do a collection of the better things that Italy has and bring it to America. I used my sense of style, fashion and creative eye to develop this. I now offer the consumer something beautiful to put on their counter that is at the same time of superlative quality.  

Q.  Where are your products made? How do you make sure each product is just right?

My products are all imported from Italy. I have a passion for everything Italian. I lived in Italy for three years on scholarship from The Culinary Institute. Everything is hand-picked, taste-tested and quality-approved by myself and my partners. My goal is sophisticated quality that stands the test of time.

Q.  Have you always had a passion for culinary arts and fashion?

Absolutely. I am one of 11 children. I was always the sparkly one and have always been attracted to the fashion and art of food. Having been part of such a big Italian family, food was always a focal point that brought my family around the massive table. My favorite pasttime growing up was the taste and smell of food. I can now recreate those memories by incorporating my wonderful Italian products.

Q.  Where might we find your products in the Barrington community?

In the Barrington area, my products can be found at Heinen's Fine Foods, Grass Roots, Mariano's, Binny's, Sunset Foods and many more high-end food and wine establishments.

Q.  What do you enjoy outside of work? How do you find balance?

Outside of work, I make sure that I am constantly pushing my creative button. I am inspired by art galleries, artists, nature, horses, horseback riding, yoga and meditation. Anything that inspires me or focuses on my spirituality makes me find balance in life. I am also extremely philanthropic and most recently supported the Barrington Junior Women's Club and the Women of Wings event.

Q.  When did your product line really take off? What would be your advice to anyone trying to establish themselves in the competitive market of food and wine?

My wines are really taking off now and my food is just launching. As far as advice goes, stay authentic and always stay true to yourself. From a business "foodie," If you expect it to taste good, it should be from your heart.  

Q.  What's been most challenging with the business?

The most challenging aspect of my business is staying focused in difficult times and capturing the attention of store owners and buyers.  

Q.  Your sister, Caroline Manzo, is part of the "Real Housewives of New Jersey" cast. How often do you appear on this show? How does it compare to your other television appearances, like "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and the "Food Network"?

This is a fantastic question. I have traveled the world with some of the most famous musicians on Earth. I have been exposed to the many levels of fame during my career – but nothing compares to being honored by my appearances on Food Network and Oprah. Those appearances are my most cherished television memories. Oprah highlighted my career and nothing can ever compare to that.

I have appeared on "Real Housewives of New Jersey" from Season 1 to Season 4 and have always been shown in a positive light. The fourth season was my favorite because I was able to have my civil union aired on national television. 

Q. What's next for Chef Jaime Laurita Brands? Any bucket list dreams?

My goal with Chef Jaime Laurita brands is to continue building my line of products. I am branching into fragrances, home accessories, decor, plateware and more.

I am excited to have partnerships with grocery stores nationwide and chains like TJ Maxx and Home Goods. I use these stores as a source for all my decorating needs. I am truly Home Goods happy.

Having my products in these stores is a dream come true for me. I hope to expand the brand nationwide through their company.