Kay Young and Shila Morris quite literally grew up in the Squeeze In. Just 10 and 17 when their parents bought the original location in Truckee, they have done just about everything in the shops, from pouring coffee to marketing. When their parents retired in 2017, Kay and Shila took the reins and have since expanded Squeeze In into a regional favorite and a nationally franchised brand. Squeeze In has locations in Reno, Sparks, Fernley, Carson City and Truckee. For more information, visit www.squeezein.com.
What’s the best thing you’ve eaten locally in the last month?
We love the banana splits at Black Rock Dessert. What a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon, and their Cinnamon Toast Crunch ice cream is unreal!
Your kitchen is on fire. (Metaphorically!) What are you cooking?
This may come as no surprise, but breakfast for dinner. We find breakfast to be an amazing meal all times of the day, and you’ll see us flipping and folding, even at home.
Who is/was your strongest culinary influence?
We have a line of females in our family who are known for their exceptional cooking. Our mom is an amazing vegan chef, and our nanna was a comfort-food queen who had a restaurant when our mom was young. We take notes and inspiration from both of them.
What is your go-to midnight snack?
While we are rarely up at midnight, if we were up that late, we are likely “out,” so French fries! (Maybe animal style.) We always look for the two longest French fries on the plate and do not eat them, instead dedicating them to those who have come before us.
Which local restaurant deserves more attention, and why?
Sparks Water Bar at the Marina. It’s got a beautiful view and is a great spot for delicious lunch or dinner, especially on the patio.
How does food contribute to our community?
Reno is a “food town,” and we are fortunate to have some great restaurants, most of which are locally owned by really good people. The restaurants here are active, often giving back, banding together for support and delivering excellent food with friendly service.
What is the most unusual thing in your refrigerator right now?
We always have a drawer full of gluten-free bread, as half the family has gluten allergies. By the way, it’s one of the reasons potatoes at Squeeze In are kept gluten-free.
Please share your favorite food memory from growing up.
When we were young and both in cheerleading, our dad would take us to our hometown favorite: Scoopers for burgers, fries and a shake. It has a special place in our hearts, even to this day.
What is the one kitchen tool you can’t live without?
Our glass (reusable containers) from Costco. Living in a restaurant family means we often cook more than enough and create leftovers. Not only are they easy to clean, but they’re durable.
If you could have dinner at any restaurant in the world tonight, where would it be, and why there?
We are torn between The View restaurant in Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland, and the Boathouse in Central Park, New York City. Both have exceptional views, ambience and food.