Interview: James and Denica Freitas
Who shaped the way you think about food?
Denica: My mom. She is a wonderful cook and entertainer, and taught us to try and learn to like many exotic foods.
James: My mother, her delicious lasagna and complete meals even when working and going to school
Who was/is the most influential person in your life?
Denica: My husband, James. He is our family leader, the driving force behind our success and growth.
James: My Stepdad, Jim Rose. He had a gun and a badge, and he was always right. You can’t snow the Snow Man.
What does your kitchen lack that you dream of having?
Denica: I wish I had our restaurant gas range and super powered sprayer for washing dishes at home. Someone to clean up after me would be nice too…
James: A strong exhaust fan, gas burners, and drawer space.
What are some of your favorite pantry staples?
Denica: Unsalted butter, garlic, gourmet sausage and cheese.
James: Soy Sauce, Garlic Salt, fresh ground pepper.
What is your favorite dish? 
Denica: My mom’s fabulous homemade seafood paella, and any sweet pastry. Yum!
James: Lasagna or Beef Stew
What are your healthy eating strategies?
Denica: I make it a habit to eat every 3 hours, and drink water first if I feel hungry- thirst is often mistaken for hunger.
James: Front load with protein shakes in the morning and stay away from my kids’ leftovers
What’s your favorite indulgence?
Denica: Haagen-Daz rum raisin ice cream, or crème brulee.
James: Porterhouse Steak barbecued over real charcoal bricquets with baked potato with butter and chives
Having tried it once, what would you happily never eat again?
Denica: I don’t know…maybe spam!
James: Brussel Sprouts or Wild Muflong Sheep Jerky from Molakai, Hawaii
