Connecting community at the table through a unique dinner experience 

Over the past three decades, Chef Susan Collins has been deeply connected to the culinary world, creating unique menu items and savory dishes for guests to experience and appreciate. She has cooked, managed, and operated kitchens in various restaurants and hotels. In addition, Collins’s work in catering environments, including her own, has allowed her to express her talents in new ways that continue to explore, refine and delight. 

Born and raised in Spain, where she fell in love with the art of cooking, Collins now delights the palettes of many Hoosiers through elegant food creations. Her passion not just comes from the custom menus that she curates, but also supporting local farmers, butchers, brewers and local businesses throughout the journey. 

On September 1, Chef Susan will be creating a one-of-a-kind menu as part of our Golden Hour Gatherings program. She will showcase her passion with a six-course menu, featuring our five rare Heritage Breeds. Each course will be paired with creative cocktails using locally sourced spirits. 

When did you discover a love of cooking?  

As a young child growing up in Spain, that is when I first found my love for cooking. However, it wasn’t until later in life that I realized my true joy came from sharing this passion with others. 

How did growing up in Spain influence your culinary techniques and how does that transcend to what you are doing today? 

Growing up and watching my family in our restaurants, I absorbed their techniques and passion for cooking. Today, I bring those cherished lessons to Indiana, further shaping my culinary style. 

How did branching out through different culinary cultures help make you a better chef? 

Throughout my culinary journey, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting clients from diverse cultures. This exposure has allowed me to embrace a multitude of flavors and infuse them to my creations. 

How has living in Indiana influenced your culinary style? What has the Midwest taught you? 

Although I joke that Indiana is a meat, potatoes and ranch dressing state, I truly love to embrace the farm-to-table culinary style and the amazing local vendors that support this.  

Why did you decide to start up a catering service and become a private chef?  

I decided to start my own company so that I could focus on the client with creating memorable dishes and experiences. This allows me to start a bond and trust, which is more important to me as a private chef.  

What has it been like working for events in association with Conner Prairie? 

The fact that Conner Prairie grounds are so beautiful is a bonus. I have such respect and love for the staff in the Conner Prairie community. Working with each and every one of them is a blessing.  

What opportunities do you find working with Heritage Breeds animals? 

The love and quality put into breeding these animals brought back so many memories on how all farms should be. Visiting the farm and meeting the amazing staff behind the scenes has been informative and an amazing experience.  

How do you go into the preparation for unique events like Golden Hour Gatherings? What are your favorite things about an event like this? 

Preparing for this event has sparked my creativity as I focus on farm-to-table dishes. Each dish will feature a unique heritage breed product, adding the special touch to the culinary experience. 

What was your inspiration for creating the menu for our Golden Hour Gatherings event? 

I want to bring local ingredients to support the farm-to-table focus. Local farms like Bear Fruit Farms, Heritage Breeds and Conner Prairie all have been amazing partners. The shared passion that each one of these vendors seamlessly have, has allowed me to get creative, along with the beautiful sunset lounge and sunflower fields as an inspirational backdrop. 

What elements of cooking bring you the most joy? 

My joy and happy thoughts is making memories, creating bonds and giving people ‘food of love.’