578 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine HOSPITALITY AND LEISURE Kristian M. Adams channels his drive, passion and dedication into his work at Shanty Secrets, a recreational cooking school and bistro that first opened in 2009. Based in Danville, Pennsylvania, the business offers locally sourced produce and a weekly mealpreparation menu to a variety of customers, as well as an upscale bistro experience every weekend. Most notably, Shanty Secrets provides a wealth of academic culinary opportunities, including interactive classes on various dishes and individual masterclass lessons on specific topics chosen by students. Highly acclaimed by the local community, Mr. Adams’ enterprise was named the Small Business of the Year by the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce in 2023. In his capacity as executive chef, Mr. Adams prepares weekly menus and, during weekend dining events, hosts an open kitchen where the entire dining room can observe his technique in action. This practice allows him to engage his mind and maintain a dynamic approach to his work, avoiding stagnation in his role. As part of his teaching duties, he leads classes in crafting a plethora of dishes, from single meals to multiple courses, many of which can be completed by students of any skill level. Having always dreamt of becoming a chef, Mr. Adams’ aspirations were humble at first, with a desire to own his own ice cream shop. However, after visiting Torte Knox, a recreational cooking school in Hawley, Pennsylvania, his perspective changed. The owner, Sheelah-Kaye Stepkin, who had worked with Julia Child, became his mentor, and she instilled in him a drive and passion for the culinary arts, showing Mr. Adams that anything is possible with dedication and hard work. Looking to the future, Mr. Adams aims to spread knowledge about the benefits of using high-quality and fresh ingredients in cooking. Likewise, he is optimistic about expanding his reach and positively impacting the culinary experiences of others. In the coming years, he hopes to open a distillery venue and tasting room on his grandparents’ property, where Shanty Secrets is currently located. Millennium Magazine Featured Listee KRISTIAN M. ADAMS OWNER, EXECUTIVE CHEF Shanty Secrets Danville, PA
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