We were lucky enough to catch up with IFBC19 Speaker Katie Workman of The Mom 100 to talk about her recent trip to Alaska and her thoughts on visiting again next month.
1. When did you visit Alaska? Where did you go?
I went to Alaska last June and fell in love. I was there with ASMI (Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute) with a bunch of chefs and food journalists learning about the seafood and fishing industry in Alaska and I was blown away by everything I saw, ate and learned. We spent most of our time at Tutka bay, took side trips to Homer, went on fishing expeditions, and cooked and hiked and talked with people in the fishing industry. It was magical.
2. What were your thoughts and feelings about Alaska?
Well, it was June, so it was dazzlingly beautiful and not too cold! The people were mostly warm and open, though there was a not unexpected taciturn nature to some of the folks, which I think comes from some pretty rugged living. There was a prevailing pride and investment in the fishing industry as a whole which made me realize the breadth and depth of how this industry is intertwined with all parts of Alaskan life. It was very powerful.
3. What was your favorite dish while in Alaska?
Anything fish and seafood. Everything salmon. The salmon roe we saw cured before our eyes at Tutka Bay by Jeremy of ASMI. The last night of our trip the chefs and some of the journalists all cooked favorite dishes with Alaska seafood and it was a full on banquet.
4. What was your favorite experience while in Alaska?
It was one of my favorite press trips ever for sure, and one of my favorite trips period. Catching fish on a boat, having drinks at a the Salty Dawg in Homer, lunch at the Saltry in Halibut Grove, learning all about the fishing industry. Staying at Tutka Bay. Amazing sunrises and sunsets.
5. What would you recommend for attendees to eat or do while at IFBC19?
Anything anyone offers you! Especially if it swims or involves water! I have never been to Juneau so I’m excited to explore the food scene there. I’m excited for the helicopter trip and to get into the beer scene and learn from everyone there.