We’re looking forward to introducing you to Alyssa Gangeri. Check out our conversation below.
Alyssa , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
What I’m most proud of building that often goes unseen is my team. The Butter Milk Ranch wouldn’t be what it is without the people who make it come alive every day. I don’t see them as being ‘below’ me, they are right beside me. From our dishwashers to our managers, these are the individuals who hold everything together, keep us moving forward, and embody what this brand stands for. I take so much pride in helping them grow, both personally and professionally, and in creating an environment where they feel challenged, supported, and inspired. I’ve always said that not everyone will stay forever, but my goal is that when they do move on, they leave better than when they started. That growth, that culture, is the foundation of everything we do, and it’s something I’m deeply proud of.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Alyssa Gangeri, and I’m the Operating Partner and creator of The Butter Milk Ranch, a small-batch bakery and restaurant concept that has been an incredible journey since we opened our doors in October 2021. From day one, we set out to create something truly special where every detail matters, from hand-crafted laminations to cocktails, to even the dressings on our salads. What makes us unique is that we’re baking all day long, so everything that hits our pastry case or table is just an hour or two out of the oven. That constant freshness paired with elevated flavor profiles helps us bridge the gap between savory and pastry in a way that feels both comforting and unexpected.
What I’m most proud of is not only the food, but the experience we deliver. We want every guest to feel like they’re part of something special, whether they’re grabbing a croissant or enjoying a cocktail with friends. My background working with Michelin-starred chefs and some of the best hotels in the world gave me the foundation, but The Butter Milk Ranch is where I’ve been able to pour all of my passion and creativity into one space. Right now, we’re continuing to push boundaries, explore new ideas, and keep growing while never losing sight of what got us here: true craftsmanship, hospitality, and heart.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe bonds break when people stop putting in the work, when communication breaks down, or when accountability is missing. The right thing is often not the easy thing, but leaning in, being honest, and taking responsibility for your actions is what restores any relationship, whether personal or professional. Acknowledging when you were wrong or didn’t give your full effort isn’t easy, but it’s a powerful way to rebuild trust and respect.
Food has always been a profound way to bring people together. I grew up in a large Italian family where, no matter the disagreements or conflicts, we always came together for a meal. Food has the power to evoke emotion — the smell of chocolate chip cookies might remind someone of their grandmother, or a slow-cooked pot roast can bring back memories of family dinners on Sundays. In my work, I aim to create those moments. If I can evoke an emotion through my food, I’ve done my job, and that shared experience is a profound way to connect people and restore bonds.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
In 2017, I was diagnosed with celiac disease and many doctors told me I needed to change my career, since flour and wheat are at the core of nearly everything I create. That was a huge emotional, mental, and physical struggle. I had worked so hard and sacrificed so much for my career, and suddenly it felt like it might be taken away from me. But there was a part of me that refused to give up.
I turned my pain into power. I educated myself through Cornell University in nutrition and wellness, studied how food affects the body on a biological level, and began experimenting with new flours and starches to develop gluten-free pastries and dishes that don’t just fill a void but taste just as delicious as the originals. More than that, I wanted to create a safe and enjoyable dining experience for guests with gluten and food allergies, so they can dine without stress or anxiety.
I am deeply grateful for the work ethic instilled in me by my father and grandfathers, which taught me to always go above and beyond. Putting my emotions aside and letting my passion guide me has been transformative. Seeing guests experience joy and comfort from my food is a daily reminder that turning my passion into power was the right choice. I have never regretted it.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is the real me. I am passionate, driven, and deeply committed to my craft, and that shows in everything I do at The Butter Milk Ranch. What people see is my love for food, hospitality, and creating meaningful experiences, but behind that is also the dedication, hard work, and care that goes into building a team and a brand. I strive to be authentic in every interaction, whether it’s with a guest, a team member, or in interviews. While I am confident and ambitious in public, I’m equally committed to growth, learning, and being true to who I am in every space I occupy.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think most people will misunderstand the sacrifices it takes to reach this level of success. In this industry, you often give up weekends, holidays, family events, and personal relationships. Those sacrifices are never easy, and the industry doesn’t make it any simpler. That said, many of the choices I’ve made were necessary to protect my peace, sanity, and well-being. The right decisions are rarely the easy ones.
I don’t make decisions lightly. I choose what’s best not just for me, but for my team, my mental space, and for creating joy, growth, and advancement rather than stagnancy, resentment, or negativity. I strive to actively be better every day, and in doing so, I aim to build a space where the people around me are inspired to do the same. From the outside, some decisions might be misunderstood, but at my core, every choice is made with discernment and with the intent to lift others as I grow myself. I cannot advance or be truly successful if the people around me aren’t also becoming the best versions of themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.buttermilkranch.com
- Instagram: @thebuttermilkranchtn (business) @agangeri (personal)
Image Credits
Southern Social (@Southernsocial.media)
