Welcome to Foster, where every dish tells a story of passion, community, and culinary innovation. Nestled in the heart of Sea Cliff, Long Island, Foster is more than just a restaurant – it's a celebration of hyper-local food sourcing and a commitment to sustainability.
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At Foster, we believe in the power of micro-seasonal ingredients, sourced directly from local farms, to elevate every dish. Our menu is a constantly evolving reflection of the vibrant flavors and diversity of Long Island's agricultural landscape, offering an eclectic American cuisine experience that evolves with the seasons. We pair this ethos with a return to the artistry of open-flame cooking, infusing our dishes with a depth of flavor that can only be achieved through this traditional method.
Whether you're savoring a romantic dinner at one of Long Island's finest restaurants, desiring to experience our culinary delights in our outdoor dining area, or looking to enjoy a leisurely brunch on Sunday, your each bite is a testament to our dedication to farm-to-table excellence wherever possible.
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To us, farm-to-table dining goes beyond just a trend – it's a way of life. We work closely with local farmers and producers, whenever possible, to ensure that every ingredient is ethically sourced and of the highest quality to the best of our ability. Our ever-changing menus are seasonally crafted to showcase the best of what Long Island has to offer, ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience with each visit.
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From our cozy cocktail bar, where mixologists concoct innovative drinks using locally sourced ingredients, to our oyster bar, where you can indulge in the freshest catches from Long Island's waters, every aspect of Foster reflects our dedication to quality and our surrounding communities.
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Our commitment to hyper-local food sourcing goes hand in hand with our dedication to sustainability. We believe in utilizing every part of the ingredient, from nose to tail and root to leaf, ensuring that our chefs thoughtfully incorporate every element of each ingredient to create impeccably delicious dishes that maximize flavor while eliminating waste wherever possible.
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Join us at Foster and experience the true essence of Long Island's culinary landscape, where every bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the vibrant spirits of our community and local cuisine.
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Executive Chef Jason Potter
At the age of 19, Jason departed from his hometown of Flint, MI, to pursue his culinary passion and refine his skills at the French Culinary Institute in New York City. Under the mentorship of esteemed chefs such as Alain Sailhac, Andre Soltner, Jacques Pepin, and Jacques Torres, Jason honed his craft. A brief return to Michigan saw him revitalizing the menu at Gregory Charles, an upscale New American restaurant in Grand Blanc, MI. However, it was his return to New York City that marked a significant chapter in his culinary journey, working alongside renowned chefs including David Bouley, Todd English, Zak Pelaccio, and the Bromberg brothers of Blue Ribbon restaurants.
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Following his tenure at English is Italian and overseeing the Food and Beverage program at the Marriott Renaissance Times Square, Jason assumed the role of Corporate Chef for Blue Ribbon Izakaya and other esteemed Bromberg-owned establishments, where he spent over a decade honing his culinary expertise.
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The onset of the pandemic in 2020 prompted Jason's entrepreneurial spirit to flourish. Furloughed during the restaurant closures, he embarked on establishing his own private chef and in-home catering company in Long Island. Together with his wife, they catered to clients across Long Island, the Hamptons, Manhattan, and New Jersey, offering gourmet chef’s tasting menus in the comfort of their homes, as well as catering larger-scale events such as bar mitzvahs and weddings.
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In November 2022, Jason realized his culinary vision with the opening of FOSTER, an eclectic American restaurant nestled in their hometown of Sea Cliff. Distinguished by its fusion of unique flavors and culinary influences not commonly found in Long Island establishments, FOSTER swiftly garnered acclaim, emerging as one of the island's premier dining destinations. With an ever-evolving menu showcasing highly seasonal ingredients, Jason's culinary ethos centers on working with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to accentuate the natural flavors of each dish.
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Jason's extensive experience as a chef has honed his ability to manage food cost, personnel, and food safety with precision. As a leader, he sets high standards of excellence, fostering a culture of dedication and innovation among his team.
General Manager Tanya Potter
Tanya co-owns and operates Foster alongside Jason. In her role as General Manager, Tanya oversees all aspects of service in the dining room, Foster’s bar and mixology program, and private events.
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Tanya's journey in the restaurant industry began over 20 years ago. Even while still in high school, she fostered a deep passion for the culinary world, setting her sights on building her career in hospitality. This determination led her to Cornell University, renowned for offering the finest education in hospitality management. Graduating from the Cornell Hotel School in 2006, Tanya embarked on her professional path.
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Her career took flight with China Grill Management, a company boasting a global portfolio of 15-20 restaurants, including some of the most prestigious and lucrative establishments worldwide. Starting at Todd English’s celebrated concept, English is Italian, Tanya swiftly transitioned to managing Asia de Cuba in Midtown Manhattan, where she oversaw all operational facets, from service and inventory to staff training and payroll management.
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Driven by an unwavering commitment to continuous growth, Tanya redirected her focus towards enriching her expertise in wine. Joining Empire Merchants, one of New York’s largest wine and liquor distributors, she ascended through the ranks, from Sales Consultant to Sales Manager, and ultimately to Director. Her tenure honed her negotiation prowess, refined her conflict resolution skills, and deepened her understanding of financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic marketing.
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Tanya's leadership style is characterized by her hands-on approach and her ability to inspire her team through example. Her adeptness in management, marketing, and financial acumen has been instrumental in driving the success of her ventures, both past and present.
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