About Us
Our Mission
FYE & TR: Cultivating Community Through Innovative Cuisine and Unforgettable Experiences
We are passionate about creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere where guests become family. Our mission is to:
- Deliver exceptional service: Our team combines warmth, efficiency, and expertise to ensure every guest feels cared for and valued.
- Offer unparalleled food and drink: We source local, high-quality ingredients to craft innovative dishes and light, refreshing ice cream. We also feature a thoughtfully curated selection of spirits and craft beverages.
- Provide diverse dining experiences: Whether it’s enjoying farm-to-table dinners, live cooking shows, catered events, or casual indoor/outdoor dining, we offer something special for every occasion.
- Foster a relaxed and fun atmosphere: We want your time at FYE&TR to be a delightful escape.
Come join us! We are Chef Sandy, Michelle Perez, Joe Frenetti, and Bevin, and we invite you to experience the warmth of our hospitality and the joy of good food shared with loved ones.
Meet The Team
Chef Sandy Squillante:
Where Family, Food, and Passion Collide
From boisterous Sunday dinners to launching a successful restaurant career, Chef Sandy Squillante’s life revolves around the kitchen. Growing up Italian, she witnessed the power of food to bring people together, fostering love, laughter, and cherished memories. This core belief fuels her passion as a television chef, inspiring others to recreate that magic in their own homes.
Early Inspiration: Surrounded by family in a lively Italian kitchen, Sandy developed a deep appreciation for the culinary arts. Every meal wasn’t just about sustenance; it was a celebration of life’s milestones, both joyous and sorrowful. This instilled in her the profound connection between food, family, and tradition.
A Journey of Exploration: Sandy’s culinary journey extended beyond her family’s haven. In the 70s, she honed her skills under renowned chefs – French and German – absorbing diverse techniques and perspectives. Her philosophy? “You just pick things up,” she says, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning from every experience.
Unexpected Chef: Fate intervened when Sandy was forced into action at her restaurant after a chef’s departure, she rallied her friends, transforming the potentially disastrous situation into a success story. This experience ignited her confidence, propelling her towards a culinary career.
From Home Cook to Television Star: Sandy immersed herself in the world of food – watching cooking shows, devouring cookbooks, and tirelessly experimenting with recipes. This dedication, coupled with her flair for fusing flavors from America’s rich multicultural tapestry, led to her signature “New American” cuisine. Her message is clear: embrace diverse cuisines but always add your personal touch.
Sharing the Love of Cooking: For Chef Sandy, cooking transcends mere preparation; it’s an art form.
Sandy’s first TV show aired on PAX TV. Later, she followed it up with another show called “America Cooks With Sandy” which aired on NBC in 7 states. She also appeared on A&E and FYI nationwide and internationally. Through her television show “Romancing the Pan,” which aired on A&E’s cable channel, she shared her culinary artistry and Italian heritage, fostering a sense of warmth and togetherness. Her mission? To inspire both novice and seasoned cooks to embrace the kitchen and create their own treasured food traditions.
Beyond the Kitchen: When not captivating audiences, Chef Sandy resides in, CT with her partner. A proud grandmother and daughter of a future doctor, her life exemplifies the perfect blend of family, passion, and culinary excellence.
Michelle Perez
Corporate by Day, Restaurateur by Night: Building Relationships Across Industries
She is a self-driven professional with over 18 years of experience, wearing two hats that might seem surprising! By day, I navigate the world of HR, Procurement, and Vendor Management, leveraging my expertise to manage and build strong client relationships in the corporate world. By night, I bring that same passion for building connections and fostering memorable experiences to my role as a Co-Owner of a restaurant.
Bevin Ingram
Bevin Ingram is a seasoned professional with a 27-year career at the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. His experience spans various areas, including:
Gaming Commission: Ingram held different positions within the Commission, demonstrating his well-rounded understanding of the gaming industry.
Tribal Council Leadership: Serving as Executive Assistant to the Tribal Council, Ingram gained insights into the Tribe’s governance and decision-making processes.
Human Resources Expertise: Ingram’s role in Employee Relations at Foxwoods Resort Casino highlights his strong human resources background.
Beyond his core responsibilities, Ingram has played a key role in Foxwoods’s entertainment scene. He has been involved in various stages of major event productions, showcasing his project management and event coordination skills.
Ingram’s extensive network includes A-list musical artists and influential film and television producers. These connections speak to his professionalism and the high regard he holds within the entertainment industry.
Joe Frenetti:
Connecticut’s Construction Guru with a Nationwide Passion
Joe Frenetti is a true Connecticut staple. Since 1989, he’s been a leading figure in the state’s construction business, bringing his expertise and dedication to every project. But Joe’s ambitions extend far beyond the building site.
A self-proclaimed antique truck and equipment expert, Joe has a deep appreciation for the history and craftsmanship embedded in these mechanical marvels. His love for exploration compels him to travel across the USA, and he’s already conquered an impressive 47 states!