Meet the FoodE Expert: JANAN JULIFF
What is your background?
I developed my love for food while growing gigantic gardens for our large family of 10 on a northern Iowa farm. I received my bachelor’s degree in Piano Performance from St. Catherine’s University in St. Paul, and worked for over 20 years as a church organist, pianist and choir director. In 2005, I acquired certification as a Professional Pastry Chef from The Art Institutes International Minnesota, and worked in high-end restaurants and bakeries, eventually opening my own luxury custom cake business called The Cake Diva. I currently teach in-home culinary classes, decorate cakes and teach instability training exercise classes at ZeSa Fitness in downtown Minneapolis.
What do you love most about being a FoodE Expert?
Assisting customers and developing a relationship with them through food is what excites me as a FoodE Expert. Everyone has a story, and our stories weave together in surprising ways! I enjoy inspiring customers to try new products and to cook simple, nourishing meals for their families!
What new things do you hope to bring to Lunds & Byerlys?
I want to explore and encourage customers to cook international cuisine, from Hmong and Thai dishes, to French and Mediterranean food.
What is your favorite meal/snack solutions?
As a seasonal eater, I focus on fresh fruits and vegetables of the season. In the fall, my favorite snack is sliced Rave apples and Milton Creamery Prairie Breeze Cheddar. It is delicious, complex in flavor and texture, and satisfying!