Crystal Cun & Laura Atbashian

Teaches at Astor Center

Crystal is an avid seafood lover, sourdough baker, and wine enthusiast. She was the Communications Manager for Element Seafood for five years, where she connected NYC's leading chefs with quality shellfish. She is always excited to talk about oysters with the bivalve-curious. Previously, she studied food culture and communications at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy, and culinary techniques at the International Culinary Center. These days, she works at Fleishers Craft Butchery as their Brand Manager, and spends her spare time curing charcuterie and braising for hours and hours.

Laura Atbashian is the Saké buyer and assistant wine buyer for Astor Wines and Spirits. She is a saké sommelier certified by the Saké Institute of America. Growing up in Buffalo, NY she cut her teeth on Finger Lakes Riesling and her passion for wine, saké and spirits grew as she continued to travel and study. Working at Astor Wines & Spirits since 2014 has been ideal for her continuing education and training her palate. She is always excited about adventurous food and beverage pairings and works with her husband, a chef, to create unique tasting menus.