Eden Grinshpan (Eden Eats)

What inspired you to become "Eden Eats?"

I’ve always loved cooking for my family and friends, and I didn’t have a lot of direction in high school. When I graduated, my dad suggested I apply to culinary school. I went to Le Cordon Bleu in London and worked part-time in different kitchens. After graduating, I backpacked throughout India, South East Asia and also worked in kitchens in Israel. I ended up moving to NYC in my early 20s and sold my first show to the Cooking Channel. While hosting the show, I started cooking more contemporary Middle Eastern food. From there I ended up having a successful pop-up in NYC, which led to opening a restaurant in 2018 called DEZ. I then sold my first cookbook EATING OUT LOUD and started working on my brand, eden eats. During that time, I got married and had two babies. Being active and eating mostly a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern diet has always been part of my life. The balance is something I love and have lived by for years.

What is your morning routine?

My kids wake me up at 6:30 am. We get our kids and ourselves ready for the day and then we all head down for breakfast together at around 7:45. Either Ido or I make breakfast and lunch for the kids while the other parent makes the coffee. 

After dropping the kids off at school, Ido heads into his office and I either grocery shop for a day of testing and shooting recipes or start with emails.

What’s your favorite place to unwind? 

My bedroom with my husband, once the kids have gone to bed. It’s honestly the only place I can actually unwind, I need to be lying down :) lol

Tell us about a time when you didn’t feel well—physically, emotionally, or spiritually. What action steps did you take to overcome these struggles? 

I take a pilates or yoga class whenever I do or don’t feel well. It is amazing how much better I feel after I work my body, get my heart rate up and step away from the world for a bit.

How do you keep your mind and body fit? What are your routines for movement and mindfulness?

I try to have boundaries with my phone and work, go on date nights with my husband, and work out at least twice a week

What are your favorite fitness resources/favorite workouts?

I’m a big fan of reformer pilates when I’m home, and while I’m traveling, I love using The Sculpt Society. I also LOVE to dance. I grew up dancing and my goal is to get back into it and try to take a class a week.

What foods do you think pretty much everyone should add to their diet?

This might be obvious but… tahini. It’s not just delicious, it’s an amazing source of protein, calcium, vitamin B, vitamin E, zinc, an anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. It's a superfood and it is great for a veg-forward lifestyle since it goes with everything and adds all those benefits.

How do you "treat" yourself?

Movie night with the kids and Ido, a spa day, walking around the city listening to music and podcasts, pilates, or yoga class.

What must-haves are in your pantry?

Chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil, lentils, tahini, olives, capers, pasta, San Marzano tomatoes, tomato paste, and basmati rice. Total staples!

How do you enjoy Kosterina Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

I finish all of my dishes with it, and I love to use it in vinaigrettes. The flavor and the quality are incredible.