Welcome to my kitchen!

Hi there, I’m Riley Thompson, and if you ask anyone who knows me, they’ll tell you that my kitchen is always the coziest spot in the house—filled with the aroma of something simmering, baking, or sizzling. I’m 38 years old, born and raised in Galway, Ireland, where the wild Atlantic air meets hearty home cooking and stories passed down by the fire.

I didn’t grow up in a family of professional chefs, but our family dinners were always something special. My granny, who made everything from scratch without ever needing a written recipe, was my first culinary hero. She had this way of turning humble ingredients into something unforgettable. I remember sitting on the counter, watching her hands work with dough like they were telling an old story. I guess that’s when it all began for me.

For a while, I tried to follow a more conventional path—a degree in communications, a job in marketing—but the call of the kitchen was too strong. What started as a weekend food blog where I shared simple versions of my granny’s recipes turned into a full-time adventure. These days, I spend my time developing easy, comforting recipes that anyone can cook, no matter their skill level.

I believe that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Some of my favorite dishes are just a few ingredients and a bit of patience away. I love playing around with regional Irish flavors—like turning a classic shepherd’s pie into a smoky twist on the traditional, or finding ways to simplify Irish stew without losing its heart. I want every recipe I share to feel like a warm hug, especially for folks who are just starting out or looking to bring a little more ease and joy into their cooking routine.

I’ve had my share of kitchen mishaps—burnt pies, oversalted stews, you name it. But that’s the beauty of cooking: it’s messy, forgiving, and always ready to surprise you. I’m not here to be fancy or perfect. I’m here to share what I know, keep it real, and hopefully help you fall a little more in love with your own cooking.

So whether you’re a busy parent, a college student with one pan, or just someone who loves the comfort of a good home-cooked meal, welcome. Grab a fork, stay awhile, and let’s make something delicious together.