About Patrizia

Patrizia Alessi is an extraordinary trailblazer and the driving force behind JackMonkey Catering, a nationally recognized bakery/catering company. With unwavering determination, she has shattered barriers, empowering women and inspiring young entrepreneurs to fearlessly pursue their dreams. Patrizia's remarkable journey as an immigrant in a foreign world is a testament to the power of passion and hard work.
From its humble beginnings at Chelsea Market and later on to Wall Street's financial district heart, JackMonkey Catering has emerged as a beacon of excellence, specializing in hand-made, home-cooked, and inspired traditional recipes of baked goods and culinary delights. Patrizia has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to delivering delicious, nutritious, and wholesome homemade food, showcasing her devotion to culinary artistry.
Raised in Bassano Del Grappa, Italy, Patrizia discovered her love for cooking and baking as the youngest of five siblings. She seized the opportunity to experiment in the kitchen, alleviating the burden on her working parents and brothers. This early passion and resourcefulness set the stage for her incredible journey.
In 1979, Patrizia fearlessly left her Italian roots to contribute to her family's gold jewelry business in New York City. Through sheer determination and boundless ambition, she transformed the company into a thriving and prosperous enterprise. Motivated by the birth of her children, she made New York City her permanent home, determined to build a legacy of her own.
A turning point arrived in the mid-90s when Patrizia found herself yearning for inspiration. A bold and daring decision led her to enroll in classes at the prestigious French Culinary School. Fueled by her passion and armed with newfound knowledge, she fearlessly launched Ruthy's Bakery in 1995, starting with just four employees.
The bakery's success was immediate, capturing the hearts and palates of New Yorkers. Over the years, Ruthy's Bakery solidified its position as a beloved New York institution, cherished for its delectable treats and unparalleled service.
Patrizia's journey took an exciting twist in 2008 when she seized the opportunity to cater for Moe., an American jam band from Buffalo, NY. The electrifying experience and the overwhelming response propelled her into uncharted territories of success. Her breakthrough came when she was entrusted with catering for the Fab Faux at Radio City Music Hall—an honor that further cemented her reputation as a culinary maestro.
Driven by passion and guided by intuition, Patrizia's culinary artistry has graced the most prestigious venues in New York and New Jersey, including Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall, Beacon Theatre, Manhattan Center, Barclay's Center, Prudential Center, and countless others. Patrizia's creativity knows no bounds, as she has crafted awe-inspiring 3D cakes for icons such as Billy Joel, Ringo Starr, Levon Helms, Ed Sheeran, and an illustrious list that continues to grow.
Today, JackMonkey Catering stands tall as a symbol of culinary excellence and female empowerment. As a 100% woman-owned business, it embodies Patrizia's unwavering commitment to breaking barriers and inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs. With accolades from renowned venues and clients, JackMonkey Catering continues to shine as the preferred caterer among industry titans, renowned for its unrivaled culinary performances, unwavering commitment to quality, and exceptional service. Patrizia's journey has been featured in esteemed media outlets like the New York Times, NBC News, The Today Show, and Food Network, inspiring countless individuals to follow their passions, overcome obstacles