Editor’s Note: Chef Alan Thayer tells a little about himself and the dream he realized at a shop in the woods in this debut column.

My background is in French cooking. I have worked my way through many kitchens including Fine Bouche in Essex. My passion is for food and spice.

My culinary journey took a turn when I transitioned into the non-profit world, teaching culinary skills to students with disabilities. This experience instilled in me a deep appreciation for the transformative power of food and its ability to create connections that transcend the kitchen.

Today, I find myself at the forefront of a new chapter defined by a partnership with my husband and the dream of creating something unique. We created Spice320, a culinary marketplace in Colebrook just miles from Winsted and the foothills of the Berkshires.

Spice Chronicles is our journey through the world of spices and the art of cooking. From the wisdom of classic techniques to the fusion of flavors, each edition will be an expedition.

Beyond my own experiences, this column is about our community of avid food lovers, aspiring chefs and home cooks seeking to infuse their meals with a dash of creativity and a sprinkling of magic. I invite you to send in your questions, share your kitchen victories and join the conversation as we learn, grow, and celebrate the joy of cooking together.

As a chef who has worked with various culinary cultures and experiences, I believe the soul of a dish is enriched by the stories and people behind it. Through Spice Chronicles, I intend to honor this philosophy by not only sharing recipes but by weaving in the narratives that give food a soulful significance.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who’s just discovered the magic of cooking, fasten your aprons and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and enrich your culinary repertoire. Your enthusiasm and participation can be a driving force behind Spice Chronicles. I cannot wait to dive into this delicious adventure together.

Until the next edition, I eagerly await your questions and look forward to sharing delectable, spice-infused insights. Bon appétit!

NOTE: To send in your culinary questions or share your cooking triumphs, email me at Spice320llc@gmail.com. Your questions may be featured in future columns. After studying in Vermont, Norway, and New Haven, Alan Thayer worked as a French-trained chef for many years.

Prior to launching Spice320, he worked as a culinary instructor for adults living with mental illness at Fellowship Place in New Haven. A member of the Northeast Organic Farming Association and the International Association of Culinary Professionals, Alan lives in Colebrook with his husband and business partner Rick.