ABOUT THE AUTHORS

ARLIN SMITH

Owner and general manager Arlin Smith hails from Buffalo, New York, and holds a degree from the Culinary Institute of America. Early in his career, his appreciation for all things hospitality drew him out of the kitchen. He has since led Big Tree’s front of house teams and spearheaded the melding of function and design in establishing each of the Big Tree Hospitality restaurants. He has become something of an authority on hospitality and has spoken on the subject in podcasts, on panels, and to many print journalists. Arlin leads by example in his commitment to instilling a spirit of generosity in the company’s staff by managing all of Big Tree Hospitality’s philanthropic efforts.

ANDREW TAYLOR

Big Tree Hospitality chef-owner Andrew Taylor’s appreciation for the history of New England’s food grew out of an affinity for fishing and foraging. He is a James Beard Award–winning chef and father of four who has become adept at culinary improvisation, crafting innovative cuisine out of the most seasonal ingredients Maine provides. When he isn’t stomping through the woods searching for matsutakes or reviewing the company’s financials, Andrew can be found cooking alongside his team. He is constantly looking toward the future and leading the company in new and exciting directions.

MIKE WILEY

Big Tree Hospitality owner Mike Wiley is a James Beard Award–winning chef. His inquisitive nature carried him through a six-year stint in academia, and ultimately left him with a masters in rhetoric and a determination to get back in the kitchen. His tireless curiosity has since led him to become the company’s resident culinary nerd and an authority on sustainable sourcing and fermentation. Mike’s intellectual approach to culinary work keeps him close to menu development on a daily basis, as well as mentoring and training new chefs.

SAM HIERSTEINER

Sam Hiersteiner is a food writer whose work has appeared in the Boston Globe, First We Feast, Eater, Lucky Peach, Huffington Post, Art of Eating, and other publications. He lives in Boston with his wife, Jacqueline, and two children, Caroline and Rowan.