Layla’s food obsession and adventurous palate developed early on. Growing up in cities like Paris, Aberdeen, and Jakarta, she counts escargots, haggis, and beef rendang among her first memorable meals. As an adult, she has also lived in Paris, New York City, and across the American South, and currently calls Roanoke, Virginia home. She’s always looking for the next exciting bite and sip — and relishes uncovering the story behind it. Her work has appeared on Food Network, Refinery29, The James Beard Foundation, and Saveur, and in the Chicago Tribune and Drinks International.