Discover the Culinary Journey of Chef Susan Burdian, from New York's Diverse Flavors to Innovative Comfort Food

Chef Susan Burdian, a native New Yorker and graduate of the Natural Gourmet Institute, has spent the past decade immersing herself in the vibrant culinary scene of the New York metro area. Her journey has taken her through a rich tapestry of cuisines, from Southeast Asian and French to rustic Italian, Mexican BBQ, Filipino, and Vegan. In 2010, she launched Zuzies, a well-received pop-up in Astoria, where she artfully blended these diverse influences with classic American comfort food, creating a unique cooking style she describes as "American Classics meets American Melting Pot."

In 2012, Burdian was invited to open The Flatiron Room, where she crafted a menu to complement an impressive collection of over 1,000 whiskeys from around the world. A highlight of her career came in October 2014 when she had the honor of preparing the first-ever whiskey-pairing menu at the James Beard Foundation. Currently, she serves as the Executive Chef of Superfine, an iconic Brooklyn restaurant located in the buzzing DUMBO neighborhood. Superfine is dedicated to sustainable agriculture, with a menu that changes daily to feature seasonal produce sourced almost exclusively from local farmers and markets, alongside grass-fed beef and the finest seafood available.

Who inspires you? 

When I think about what inspires me most, I realize it's not a person but my beautiful city of New York. There's truly no place like it, with its vibrant cultural diversity and an incredible depth of talent that surrounds me every day. The city is alive with energy, offering endless opportunities and experiences that fuel my creativity. From the bustling markets filled with fresh produce to the array of culinary styles that reflect the melting pot of cultures, New York City is my muse. Each street corner and neighborhood has its own story, and I find myself continually inspired by the flavors, ingredients, and traditions I encounter.

In my cooking, you can see the influence of this dynamic environment. New York's spirit infuses my dishes, whether I'm experimenting with global flavors or reimagining classic recipes. The rich tapestry of cultures here allows me to draw from a wealth of culinary techniques and inspirations. I love how each meal I create is a reflection of the experiences I've had in the city—from a spontaneous visit to a local food festival to discovering a hidden gem of a restaurant. In every bite, I aim to capture the essence of New York and share a piece of my journey with those who enjoy my food. This city is not just my home; it's the heart and soul of my culinary identity.

What has been the most thrilling moment of your career thus far?

The most thrilling moment of my career thus far has to be cooking for the James Beard Foundation this past October. The entire experience felt surreal, from the anticipation leading up to the event to the excitement of actually being in that prestigious kitchen. As a chef, being invited to showcase my culinary creations at such a renowned institution was not just an honor but also a significant milestone. When I stepped into that kitchen, I felt the weight of the moment and the legacy of the chefs who have cooked there before me. I knew I had to bring my best, and I was determined to make a lasting impression.

The event turned out to be even better than I had expected, which was incredibly validating for both my crew and me. Seeing everyone come together to create something special was a reminder of the power of teamwork in the culinary world. We poured our hearts into the dishes, and the feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive. It was such a rewarding feeling to know that the flavors and stories behind my cooking resonated with those who experienced it. This moment not only affirmed my skills as a chef but also strengthened the bond with my team, reminding us all why we love what we do. It truly was a highlight that I will cherish for years to come.

What advice could you offer to women trying to break into culinary world? 

I always advise anyone interested in working in this industry to go get a job in a kitchen at the bottom level, and see if you really still love it after 6 months. If so then I encourage them to take the next step whether it's a full-time culinary school education or just a boot-camp program. Once you get your feet wet with learning basic knife skills and kitchen efficiency, try to find a job with a restaurant or chef whose food you really love. Working with a cuisine you love or a chef you admire will keep you excited and motivated even when the hours are long and the work is physically & mentally challenging. It is the hardest work you will ever love.

Would you encourage the younger generation to build their own businesses?

I would encourage the younger generation to build their own businesses, or at least to give it a try at some point in their lives. The entrepreneurial journey is unlike any other; it’s filled with highs and lows that teach you invaluable lessons about resilience, creativity, and resourcefulness. Whether you find success or face challenges along the way, every experience adds to your personal growth. I believe that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to incredible discoveries about yourself and your capabilities.

Even if your venture doesn’t turn out as planned, the skills you acquire will benefit you in whatever path you choose. You gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to run a business, from managing finances to understanding customer needs. This knowledge can transform how you approach any job in the future. It fosters a sense of independence and confidence that can propel you forward, making you a more adaptable and innovative team member in any workplace.

Ultimately, entrepreneurship can also reshape your perspective on work itself. It’s not just about creating a product or service; it’s about learning to think critically, solve problems, and navigate uncertainty. These skills are incredibly valuable in today’s rapidly changing job market. So, whether you’re aiming to start a restaurant, a tech startup, or any other venture, I say go for it! The journey will equip you with tools and insights that will serve you well throughout your life, no matter where you end up.

Inspired & Ready to Level Up? Get A Mentor, Change Your Life.

After immersing yourself in the transformative stories of visionary female founders on WERULE, it’s time to elevate your journey to new heights. Imagine a world where ambition meets unparalleled guidance—our network of advisors is your gateway to that reality. Handpicked for their brilliance and success, these mentors are ready to empower you with strategic insights and bespoke support tailored to your aspirations. Don’t just dream big; take action and connect with the minds that are shaping the future. Your empire awaits—explore our advisors and unleash your potential!

Or click here to learn more about our work as we’re on a mission to make mentorship accessible to everyone around the world.