While Dennis Lasko was traveling in Europe for business, he had an idea for a subscription food service that involved food but was unsure how to develop it. Since he had little experience cooking Lasso contacted chef Amanda Mayo. Together they created Pantry, a grocery shop that provides fresh ingredients, and recipes for cooks at all levels.
Pantry aims to provide a unique grocery experience that puts fun back into cooking by taking
Pantry is located at the heart of Washington Square in Brookline. Credit: Tamara Starr
the stress out of planning and shopping. Unlike online subscription-based recipe kits, their service does not require advanced notice or a long-term commitment.
When customers shop at their Washington Square location in Brookline, they can choose among a variety of pre-portioned recipe kits that have every ingredient needed for a meal.
“We make sure that all of our ingredients are locally sourced and we even have wine and beer pairings to help make it easy if someone is organizing a special dinner,” said Mayo.
All Pantry’s recipes can be prepared with basic kitchen tools in 20-45 minutes. The store also offers cooking utensils and other items. Each kit comes with an easy-to-follow recipe card. If you already have the ingredients at home, you can purchase the kit at a discounted price.
Amanda Mayo said that they created the business with commuters and busy parents in mind.
“We really want to make the shopping experience as easy as possible,” Mayo said. “Because
One of the recipe cards at Pantry. Credit: Tamara Starr
not everyone has the time to research recipes and then go out shopping for ingredients. Here you are able to pick the dish and get everything you need to make it without wasting food.”
Mayo also offers cooking lessons and, and has demos each Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
“I just love it when children come by and you see how much fun they have just taking the peas out of pods,” said Mayo. “Cooking is suppose to fun. I want to help bring joy back into cooking.”
Examples of their dishes are Lamb and English Pea Orecchiette, Moroccan Chicken with cauliflower “couscous”, and Shaken Beef with red watercress salad and pickled onions. The only dessert they currently offer is Strawberry Crisp with Nectarines and Rosemary.
Pantry is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and is located at 1622 Beacon St., Washington Square in Brookline. Sunday hours and home delivery will be available in the fall.
Credit: Tamara Starr 
