Chef Montenia Shider

Chef Bio

Montenia Shider is a singer who loves to cook, decorate and entertain  - crafts she learned while living in Southern California. In addition to running a restaurant, Montenia is a vocal coach at the community music school of Springfield. A lifelong performer, she has sung in Scandinavia, Europe, and throughout New England and the Midwest. Montenia has 2 CDs to her credit: “In the Shuffle,” and “Each and Everyday.”

Initially, Montenia considered calling her business 1-800 CATFISH – but a friend suggested she name it for herself. Montenia’s Restaurant was first opened in 1999, and recently moved to its current location near Main Street and the Mass Mutual Center in downtown Springfield.

Chef Montenia Shider

Montenia's Restaurant

Springfield, MA

About the Restaurant

Montenia’s Restaurant, located on State Street in Springfield, opened in 2006. Its owner and chef, Montenia Shider, presides over a menu characterized as Creative Comfort Cuisine. Her dishes are “southern,” and were inspired by her Mother, Aunt, Grandmother (“Mama Ruby”), and her hometown of Savannah.

The environment at Montenia’s has been dedicated to another of her life’s passions: music. And the music that’s playing at Montenia’s is jazz. The mood and vibe that’s been created is eclectic and comfortable. And the food is delicious  -- and always piping hot.

Montenia’s is open Wednesday thru Saturday for dinner. Lunch is served Wednesday through Friday between 11am and 2:30.

Recipes from Episode 609