Chef Manager Eric Baer
Eric is thrilled to be the Chef Manager of Little Red School House and Elisabeth Irwin High School. Eric grew up in a large Italian American family who inspired his passion for culinary, which he later pursued at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). After graduating, Eric went on to work in great restaurants in New York and in corporate dining at Bank of America.
Eric enjoys working in a creative industry that is constantly evolving. He will taste anything, but his favorite foods are always spicy. He is a self-proclaimed expert when it comes to shellfish and is currently obsessed with oysters and clams.
Eric looks forward to the LREI school community's wonderful smiles and positive feedback on each and every dish he prepares.
At home, Eric prefers making simple, flavorful foods that he can serve quickly. He loves to be busy and enjoys cooking, traveling, and watching movies. He currently resides in Bayside with his wife.
Chef Patrick McCann
Chef Patrick McCann completes the culinary management team at Little Red School House and Elisabeth Irwin High School. Patrick earned his Culinary Arts degree from the New York Restaurant School before working in hotels and corporate dining. His inspiration to begin cooking came from his mother, when at an early age he helped her cook for the family, and eventually cooked a family meal once a week.
Patrick enjoys the daily challenge of adapting a la carte recipes to high-volume application at the Little Red School House and Elisabeth Irwin School. His favorite example is the popular veggie burger served at LREI that everyone enjoys.
Patrick specializes in cooking according to seasonality. He enjoys making dishes that utilize fresh vegetables from the garden, such as zucchini in the summer.
In his spare time, Patrick loves to ride any of his 3 motorcycles. Yes, he does ride his motorcycle to work so keep an eye out for him on your way to school.