Latest Posts


  • Paella Santa Maria

    Paella Santa Maria is a meal inspired by the agriculture of the Santa Maria Valley. Cooked over a fire fueled by the wood of red oak and pine cones fallen by time and weather. this dish is a reflection of… Continue reading

    Paella Santa Maria
  • Stretching Your Legs in the Santa Maria Valley

    Often times after spending hours in the kitchen the last thing you want to do is actually cook, so it’s nice to relax and and get out with some people you like spending time with. Continue reading

    Stretching Your Legs in the Santa Maria Valley
  • Avocado Toast with Pumpkin Seeds and Cilantro

    I’m so ready for avocados to be in season. Avocado toast with pepitas and cilantro is one of my favorite tartines. It’s light, delicious and makes a great, refreshing meal on hot Summer days. Continue reading

    Avocado Toast with Pumpkin Seeds and Cilantro
  • Do It Like A Chef: Chiffonade

    Chiffonade is a simple knife cut. It’s a slice of leafy greens like spinach, romaine lettuce or fresh leafy herbs such as basil, mint or parsley. The key to a great chiffonade is having a razor sharp knife. Continue reading

    Do It Like A Chef: Chiffonade
  • Index Cards From The Past

    I recorded many of the Payard recipes and food combinations on index cards for a quick reference. Those cards have been with me for over twenty years now. Continue reading

    Index Cards From The Past
  • Quarantine Hobbies

    Spring is here and work is not, so there is plenty of down time lately. Which means plenty of time to read about cooking, baking and gardening. This year there will actually be time to put some of that reading… Continue reading

    Quarantine Hobbies
  • How to Cook on Different Metals

    Lately people have been doing a lot of cooking at home and that has led to some questions on how to cook on different kinds of metals. If your kitchen is like mine then you have pots and pans made… Continue reading

    How to Cook on Different Metals
  • DO IT LIKE A CHEF Ep. 2

    There are a lot of different techniques and gadgets to help you with your garlic but today we will be using the most basic. A cutting board, your knife, a pinch of salt, and most importantly, your hands. Continue reading

    DO IT LIKE A CHEF Ep. 2
  • DO IT LIKE A CHEF

    Every week we will demonstrating a new kitchen technique you can use at home. Continue reading

    DO IT LIKE A CHEF
  • The Wonderful, Incredible Bagel

    My love for bagels has few boundaries. Split, toasted, crispy and delicious, The smell of a dark golden brown bagel fresh from the oven fills the kitchen and mouths start to water. Continue reading

    The Wonderful, Incredible Bagel