Category Archives: Cooking & Chefs
Teen Kitchen Project: two brunch dates remain in series, plus new kids’ classes
A scene from TKP’s brunch benefit Sunday, March 25, in Aptos
Teen Kitchen Project has been running a brunch fundraiser series since March. There were two Sundays in March, then they skipped Easter, and now two Sundays remain — April 8 and 15. Entrees rotate each time and have included Huevos Rancheros with rice and beans; orange-zested thick cut French toast with spiced maple syrup; and broccoli cheddar quiche with country style sausage and home fries. There are two seatings each day, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m., and brunch takes place at TKP’s newly renovated teaching kitchen and café at 8061 Aptos St. Cost is $35 for adults and $15 for kids under 12. The TKP teens do the cooking and serving. Entrees include a basket of freshly baked goods at each table, plus coffee, tea and juice. My family and I dined with TKP on March 25, and thoroughly enjoyed the meal–from the delectable scones to scrumptious sausage, Chilaquiles and more! View menus and purchase online at teenkitchenproject.org/brunch.One hundred percent of proceeds benefit TKP.
TKP recently began offering cooking classes for kids ages 8 and up, for $35 each, and they are now expanding to offer a few for kids 5-8. At the first one for “littles” on Monday, April 30, kids will make pizza. “Teen Kitchen Project is excited to open our doors to aspiring chefs ages 5 and up who are interested in learning more about developing their culinary skills,” says founder Angela Farley. “We believe empowering young people with the knowledge and skills to prepare food from scratch is essential to accomplish our goal of building a healthier Santa Cruz County, one meal at a time.”
Topics for the older kids have included burgers, tacos and dumplings. During the 2-hour classes, kids work with other students in groups of two to four. There are also adult chefs and a teen helper present. At the end of class, participants get to eat the food they prepare. Monday and Wednesday classes are at the Aptos location (8061 Aptos St.), and Friday classes are at the Soquel location (2880 Research Park Dr.). Enrollment is limited. Visit the registration page at crm.fundly.com//6708/Pages/Events/#/.
For those unfamiliar with Teen Kitchen Project, executive director Angela Farley launched TKP in 2012 after her son was diagnosed with cancer. Farley decided she wanted to help other families affected by cancer, to at least attempt to decrease some of the pressure and feelings of being overwhelmed. Today, the organization regularly delivers 600-700 free, healthy meals for clients throughout Santa Cruz County who are in crisis due to illness. Teen volunteers ages 13-18 prepare meals with the assistance of adult volunteers. The teens gain valuable skills as they volunteer. For more info, visit the web site teenkitchenproject.org.
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Upcoming New Leaf classes include making sushi
Learn how to make sushi at New Leaf
Photo credit: New Leaf Community Markets
New Leaf Community Markets in Santa Cruz has several upcoming events, including classes on making sushi, learning about Japanese fermented foods, and identifying what foods cause inflammation. Here are some highlights; these are all at the Westside Santa Cruz location at 1101 Fair Ave. (831-426-1306).
Preregistration is required—even for free classes—at newleaf.com/events.
Mondays, January 22-February 12, 1-2 p.m.
Boosting Behavior Change 4-Part Series
The free, four-part interactive workshop series, led by licensed psychologist and wellness coach Kimberly Smith-Martinez, will support those wishing to modify their eating habits for goals such as improving health, building muscle or losing weight. The approach presented can also be applied to make lasting changes to other behaviors. Participants will learn about the science behind journaling and how this can support behavior change. By the end of the sessions, participants will “track mind, mouth and muscle” and be prepared to pursue their goals. The classes are on Mondays through Feb. 12.
Wednesday, January 24, 6-8 p.m.
Intro to Sushi Making: Part 2
In this hands-on class you’ll make maki rolls (from “maku” which means to wrap or roll), using nori on the outside, brown rice as a base, and other fresh ingredients including salmon and tuna. Attendance in Part 1 not necessary. With Sushi Chef Carlos Mayorga. Cost: $35
Thursday, January 25, 6-7:30 p.m.
Traditional Japanese Fermented Foods Series, Class # 1: Amazake
Make amazake (means sweet sake)—a traditional Japanese sweet, nutritious, non-alcoholic drink made with cooked rice or cooked oatmeal and rice Koji. Enjoy as a dessert, snack or natural sweetening agent. Taste different amazake recipes. With Masumi Diaz and Eriko Yokoyama. Two other classes will be offered: Feb 8 and Feb 22. Cost: $35
Wednesday, January 31, 6-7 p.m.
How to Read Nutrition Facts and Labels
Join Dr. Danette Sutton and learn how to read and understand food labels and start making healthier choices. Since the FDA announced a new label for packaged foods last year to reflect new scientific information, we will discuss the link between diet and chronic diseases.
Cost: $5
Wednesdays, Feb 7-Feb 28, 6-8 p.m.
Anti-Inflammatory Integrative Wellness Series, $56 for drop-in (only a couple of these remain) or $225 for all four classes
You may have heard than inflammation is the root cause of all disease, but did you know that what you eat has a profound effect on feeding or fighting the issue? In this 4-week series, Anti-Inflammatory Chef Magali Brecke and Holistic Nutritionist Madia Jamgochian will lead you through the basics of eliminating inflammation through diet and lifestyle. You will learn how to heal Leaky Gut, reverse autoimmune conditions, and get back on track to vibrant health. The four-class series breaks down as follows:
- February 7: Intro to Inflammation, Leaky Gut, & Autoimmunity. In this two and a half hour class, Magali and Madia will provide a presentation on how inflammation affects the body, including what foods cause the biggest inflammatory response. Cooking demonstration & meal included.
- February 14: Elimination Diets: There are quite a few anti-inflammatory diets out there these days. This class will go over how to choose the right elimination diet, and what’s in a name. We will cover the Autoimmune Protocol, (AIP) Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) Wahls Protocol, Traditional Foods, and the Paleo diet to help you decide which one is the most realistic and beneficial fit for you. Cooking demonstration & meal included.
- February 21: Meal Planning for Success! To complete a successful elimination diet, preparation is key. Magali & Madia will go over meal planning a week at a time, demonstrating batch cooking techniques that will make throwing together dinner easy! Cooking demonstration & meal included.
- February 28: Hands on Cooking. In our last class together, classmates participate in creating an anti-inflammatory recipe from scratch. We will discuss techniques, resources, and do a series review plus Q &A on what you have learned from the class. Full meal included.
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A Cuisinart Christmas: Gift ideas for chefs, bakers, coffee lovers and more
Cuisinart released this automatic cold brew coffee maker in March 2017—a great gift for coffee lovers
Photo credit: Cuisinart
If you have last-minute holiday shopping left to do and you have chefs or bakers on your list—or even just people that appreciate good coffee or an excellent toaster!—here are a few gift ideas from Cuisinart. The items cover a range of budgets, too. Some of the products are brand-new, while others are tried and true. Retailers that carry some of these selections include Target, Kohl’s and Bed Bath & Beyond.
Cuisinart has a new automatic cold brew coffee maker that was released in March, which makes cold brew coffee in far less time than manual coffeemakers. Using “unique spin technology,” Cuisinart promises coffee in as little as 25 minutes in a choice of three flavor strengths. Coffee can be refrigerated in the seven-cup glass carafe for up to two weeks. Retail price is $99.95. The recipe section of Cuisinart’s site includes one for “Creamy Cold Brew Coconut Coffee.”
Another new item—also just released in March—is a Cuisinart “PrepExpress” spiralizer. It’s actually described as a 3-in-1 slicer, shredder AND spiralizer, and can make eating healthier much easier. Uses include wide ribbons or crinkle-cut spirals of fresh zucchini and apples, thin or wide butternut squash or beet ‘spaghetti,’ cucumber slices for salads, and thick or thin shreds of veggies for snacks or fajita fillings. Retail price is $69.95.
I have a stainless steel four-slice Cuisinart toaster at home that I highly recommend. I never imagined how much I’d appreciate having the ability to toast three or four bread slices or frozen waffles at once instead of just two. It sure makes the mornings easier when my husband and I are trying to have a quick breakfast and get ourselves to work and our daughter to school on time! Plus, this toaster has customizable settings for each two-slice section (including food type, like waffle/bread/bagel/English muffin, and a shade scale ranging from 1-7). You can do toast on a darker setting on one side, and a waffle to a medium golden brown on the other.
If you’re looking for baking gifts, Cuisinart has several fun products including a non-stick, dishwasher-safe “Mini Bakeware” line with selections ranging from $5.95-$10.95. I like the mini heart pans (set of 4, $9.95), and Pinterest has a lot of recipes using this type of pan. There are also traditional baking pans like an “easy-grip” non-stick 17-inch baking sheet ($23.95) with silicone grip handles or a non-stick 24-cup mini muffin pan ($15.95).
If you want to browse all of the company’s recipes for inspiration around the holidays or any time of year, here’s the site.
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New Leaf’s December classes include raw holiday desserts, sushi, healthy holidays
Learn how to make Chai Pecan Pie & other raw holiday desserts Dec. 13 at New Leaf
Photo credit: Beth Love
New Leaf Community Markets in Santa Cruz has several events this month, including ones to make “healthy holiday eating” easier. Here are some highlights; these are all at the Westside Santa Cruz location at 1101 Fair Ave. (831-426-1306). There is also a holiday macaron class on Dec. 20 but it’s already sold out – if you’re interested in that topic, try to sign up early next year!
Preregistration is required—even for the free class—at newleaf.com/events.
Tuesday, December 12
Healthy Holidays: Special Diets, 1-2 p.m.
If you get stressed about what to eat or how to stick to your diet during the holidays, help is here! Gain ideas for managing your gluten-free, dairy-free or anti-inflammatory diet stress-free! Enjoy tastes of featured recipes. With Certified Nutrition Consultant Madia Jamgochian. Free.
Wednesday, December 13
Raw Holiday Desserts, 6–8:30 p.m.
In this hands-on class, attendees will create four different delicious, healthy, plant-based desserts that everyone can enjoy without guilt! Make Raw Beet Treasure Cake, Apricot Walnut Chews with Cardamom, Chai Pecan Pie and Persimmon Cashew Sorbet. “Mature children” welcome to attend with adult. With Chef Beth Love, author of Tastes Like Love cookbook series. $45.
Thursday, December 14
Intro to Sushi Making, 6–8 p.m.
Join Sushi Chef Carlos Mayorga and learn how to properly assemble your own rolls from scratch and discover your own style! Learn technique, tradition, prep and how to plate your finished masterpieces. Come hungry. $25.
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Dads & Grads gifts: Gilroy Premium Outlets, Santa Cruz restaurants & cookies
Selections from Le Creuset at Gilroy Premium Outlets. Photo credit: Le Creuset
Waited ‘til the last minute to buy the dad or grad in your life a gift for this weekend? If they like to cook or are a candy fan, see below for a few gift ideas at Gilroy Premium Outlets. Remember that the outlets feature nearly 150 stores, incorporating a range of tastes. For the dad not particularly interested in food, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th has a great selection of clothing and ties, plus designer sunglasses and wallets. And Bose is a good option for the dad that loves music or television.
Outlet hours are 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.
Also, if you are shopping for a Santa Cruz foodie or are interested in purchasing a gift with a Santa Cruz theme, see end of article for more ideas.
Gilroy Outlets Food and Cooking Gift Ideas
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- Gift possibilities include grilling skillets, tongs, basting brushes and panini sets for Dad
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- Personalized gift boxes for dads and grads
- Unique flavors including draft beer
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- Kitchen gadgets, cutlery, small appliances, BBQ accessories
Gilroy Outlets restaurants or cafes to purchase gift cards
- Erik’s Deli Café
- Starbucks
For refreshments while shopping, in addition to the aforementioned Starbucks and Erik’s Deli (the Sandwiches with Character at the latter are always popular), three options are:
- All Natural Carts (fresh fruit parfaits you can eat on the go)
- Auntie Anne’s Pretzels
- Gilroy Market Place (specialty coffees, pizza, garlic fries, sandwiches and more)
Santa Cruz Gifts/Gift Cards
Lots of folks appreciate restaurant gift cards; one idea is a card from The Glass Jar, which owns Assembly, The Picnic Basket and The Penny Ice Creamery. Purchase a card at any of these three, and your recipient can choose which venue to redeem it at. Same with Soif and La Posta, you can purchase gift cards at either restaurant, and they are good at both.
Last but not least, Pacific Cookie Company has options if you want to mail a gift. These include what they refer to as “dad-inspired cookie gifts” like Executive Sweet Pack (15 cookies, currently on sale for $23.50 from $26.50). Graduation-themed gifts include Congratulations Cookie Gift Tower (a dozen cookies, $21.95).
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Santa Cruz Farmers’ Markets Pop-Up tickets selling fast
Farm-fresh grilled zucchini, sweet corn, beans and aioli from chef Kendra Baker at a summer 2016 farmers’ market pop-up breakfast. Photo credit: Tara Fatemi Walker
Tickets are on sale for the 2017 season of pop-up breakfasts with guest chefs at the Westside Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley farmers’ markets. The first event (the morning of Saturday, June 3 at the Westside market with chef Erin Lampel of Companion Bakeshop) is sold out, and limited tickets remain for the other three events. Cost is $38 and tickets are available for purchase online and at the markets. See below for more details. I attended a pop-up breakfast with chef Kendra Baker last summer, and it was a very unique, enjoyable experience with delicious food and drinks!
In other market news, there is a May promotion that greatly helps low-income Santa Cruz County residents. Traditionally, the Live Oak and Felton markets offer customers with CalFresh (EBT/SNAP) cards a dollar-for-dollar match up to ten dollars. For example, if a CalFresh customer swipes their EBT card for $10 of EBT tokens, they receive an additional $10 in Market Match tokens at no charge. A $7 swipe equals a $7 match. These matching dollars can be used to purchase fresh vegetables and fruits only. During the month of May, in recognition of CalFresh Awareness Month, the Felton and Live Oak markets are offering a DOUBLE MATCH program. Customers receive two Market Match tokens for every EBT token up to $10. So $10 dollars of EBT becomes $30 at the Felton and Live Oak markets. However, funds are going fast and might not last through the end of the month (chances are you can still utilize the promotion May 21 at Live Oak market, and possibly May 23 at Felton market, but not the following week).
2017 Pop-Up Breakfast Dates and Chefs with tickets still available as of May 19
(for full menus, visit the web site):
Scotts Valley market
- July 8 – chef Brad Briske of Home
Westside market
- August 5 – chef Katherine Stern of La Posta
- Aug 26 – chefs Kendra Baker and Jessica Yarr of Assembly, The Penny Ice Creamery, and The Picnic Basket
Different local chefs are featured at each event. For each dish at these multi-course meals, nearly 100% of the ingredients are sourced from farms at the markets. Event proceeds benefit the markets’ public educational programs including the Foodshed Project. This year for the first time there will be a raffle at each event to raise additional funds for the educational and outreach programs. The prize is a $50 farmers market gift certificate.
Attendees choose their seats by placing their own plates and silverware at spaces along u-shaped, family-style tables beginning at 9:30 a.m. Selections made with ingredients sourced from the markets begin rolling out around 10 a.m. As the guests eat and visit, farmers and chefs share their knowledge and perspectives regarding agriculture, community and consumer choice within the food system. There is also live local music.
The first summer series occurred in 2013, and the farm-to-table breakfasts continue to draw sell-out crowds. For more information call 831-325-4294 or email education@santacruzfarmersmarket.org.
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New Leaf’s May offerings include classes celebrating gluten-free month
Celebrate gluten-free month by making veggie quiche at a GF cooking class.
Photo credit: New Leaf
New Leaf Community Markets has several events this month, including ones to celebrate May being “gluten-free awareness month” and free movie showings. Here are some highlights; these are all at the Westside Santa Cruz location at 1101 Fair Ave. (831-426-1306).
Preregistration is required at newleaf.com/events.
Classes
Friday, May 19
Gluten-free beer & cheese pairing
Attendees will learn about, and taste, several beer and cheese pairings with Groundbreaker Brewery and Snowdonia Cheese Co. Oregon-based Groundbreaker is a dedicated, gluten-free brewery. Locally sourced chestnuts and hops make for a unique, naturally gluten-free (and vegan) beer. Snowdonia, based in North Wales, is renowned for an “innovative and colorful approach to hand crafting their distinct range of cheeses.” In January 2017, Fine Food Digest released their “Best Brand Guide” and the Snowdonia flagship—Black Bomber—was awarded “Best British Cheese” (a distinction it has received two of the last three years).
Time & Cost: 6–8pm, $10
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beer-cheese-pairing-with-groundbreaker-brewing-snowdonia-cheese-tickets-33406626118
Wednesday, May 24
Gluten-free cooking class: Summer treats
Join Chef Amy Fothergill for a hands-on cooking class where you will make fresh veggie quiche, rosemary prosciutto bread with fresh mozzarella, summer fruit crisp, waffles with berries, and luscious lemon tarts.
Time & Cost: 6–8:30pm, $40/Two for $70
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gluten-free-summer-cooking-tickets-33293088524
Free films & talks
Tuesday, May 9
Gluten-Free on a Budget: Nutrition Talk & Store Tour
Join Nutrition Consultant Madia Jamgochian and learn how a gluten-free lifestyle could benefit you, and how to save money when shopping for a gluten-free diet. Sample some of the products discussed in class and expand your gluten-free repertoire.
Time & Cost: 1–2pm, Free
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gluten-free-on-a-budget-nutrition-talk-store-tour-tickets-33316279890
Tuesday, May 9
Movie Night: Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret
This 2014 documentary uncovers the most destructive industry facing the planet today—animal agriculture—and investigates “why the world’s leading environmental organizations are afraid to talk about it.” With host Sandi Rechenmacher, Nutrition Consultant and educator. Free popcorn.
Time & Cost: 6pm-8pm, Free
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/movie-night-cowspiracy-the-sustainability-secret-tickets-33260473973
Wednesday, May 10
Movie Night: What the Health
Feature length documentary “What the Health” follows the journey of film writer/director Kip Andersen as he uncovers “the impacts of highly processed industrial animal foods on our personal health and greater community.” The movie has local roots: Santa Cruz producer Bill Meade is behind it. This is a rare opportunity to see an acclaimed film for free; it will be shown at the Nickelodeon later this month. With host Sandi Rechenmacher, and free popcorn.
Time & Cost: 6pm-8pm, Free
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/movie-night-what-the-health-tickets-33260560231
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February at New Leaf includes Valentine themes & classes for kids and families
Decorate Valentine cookies with the family at New Leaf Community Markets. Photo credit: New Leaf
New Leaf Community Markets has several events in February including Valentine’s classes and workshops for kids and families. Here are some highlights; these are all at the Westside Santa Cruz location at 1101 Fair Ave. (831-426-1306).
Preregistration is required at newleaf.com/events.
Thursday, Feb. 9
Chocolate Creations
Ayurvedic practitioner and chef Talya Lutzker will introduce attendees to a spectrum of delectable chocolate desserts. You will learn “how the taste of sweet is of great benefit to the body, mind and spirit” and discover a “world of good-for-you sweet foods you may not have thought of before.” Plus, learn how to make your own delicious chocolate confections from scratch.
Time & Cost: 6:30–9pm, $40/Two for $70
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chocolate-creations-tickets-30307158527
Friday, Feb. 10
Kids’ Class: Valentine Cookie Decorating Workshop
For ages 8 and up: drop your kids off for a fun workshop led by Kristen Valenza of Living Roots Food and Floral. Valenza will provide homemade sugar cookies made from organic ingredients, and kids get to decorate with an assortment of toppings.
Time & Cost: 6–8pm, $35
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentine-cookie-decorating-workshop-for-kids-tickets-30314128374
Sunday, Feb. 12
Family Class: Mommy/Daddy & Me Valentine Cookie Decorating Workshop
This class with Kristen Valenza is for Moms or Dads and their little ones ages 3-6. Families will decorate an assortment of Valentine’s Day cookies made from organic ingredients, then take home a box of creations to give away as gifts–or eat themselves!
Time & Cost: 1–3pm, $45 for one adult & one child, $30 each additional child
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mommydaddy-me-valentine-cookie-decorating-workshop-tickets-30314804396
Tuesday, Feb. 21
For Seniors: Tuesday Talk & Tea on Heart-Healthy Foods
While you enjoy tea and snacks, you can learn which heart-healthy foods are high in antioxidants, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. The session is led by Nutrition Consultant Madia Jamgochian.
Time & Cost: 12–1pm, Free (but registration required)
Register at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tuesday-tea-for-seniors-heart-healthy-foods-tickets-30236352745
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December classes at New Leaf Community Markets include gingerbread houses for kids and free health lectures
Kids can make gingerbread houses at New Leaf on Dec. 9
New Leaf Community Markets has a few lectures and classes this month. Here are some highlights; these are all at the Westside Santa Cruz location at 1101 Fair Ave. (831-426-1306).
Preregistration is required at newleaf.com/events.
If you want to plan ahead, check out their site for lots of enticing offerings in January. These include a free series of Monday afternoon nutrition workshops beginning Jan. 9 (January Jumpstart: 4 Weeks to Healthier Eating with Holistic Nutritionist Madia Jamgochian), a paella class (Thurs. Jan. 26, $45 or two for $80, includes wine) and a “one-pot Ayurvedic soups and stews” class with Ayurvedic Practitioner Talya Lutzker (Tues Jan. 31, $45 or two for $80).
Friday, Dec. 9
Kids’ Class: Gingerbread House Making Workshop
For ages 8 and up: drop your kids off for a fun, creative hands-on workshop led by Kristen Valenza, founder of Living Roots Food and Floral. They will create houses from scratch using organic ingredients, and take home their masterpieces.
Time & Cost: 6–8pm, $35/Two for $60
Tuesday, Dec. 13
For Seniors: Tuesday Tea with Holiday Spice
Join us for tea time and discover how spices add more than flavor to your recipes. Full of antioxidants and potent antimicrobials, you may be surprised to find out what your spice rack has in store.
Time & Cost: 12–1pm, Free
Thursday, Dec. 15
Supporting Your Immune System through Winter
Herbal storyteller Tom Dadant will give a lecture on how to support your body’s primary immune system naturally with beneficial herbs and nutrients. Dadant is a National Educator for Planetary Herbals.
Time & Cost: 6–7pm, Free
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Santa Cruz restaurant Assembly announces new executive chef Jessica Yarr
Jessica Yarr is now executive chef at Assembly
Photo credit: Carolyn Kelley
Beginning this week, Jessica Yarr is Executive Chef at downtown Santa Cruz restaurant Assembly (1108 Pacific Ave., 831-824-6100).
For the last few months, Yarr has been collaborating with The Glass Jar, the restaurant group founded by Kendra Baker and Zachary Davis, on a number of events and projects. These included the Meander San Lorenzo River Dinner, Assembly’s participation in the Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market pop-up breakfast series this summer, Assembly’s participation in the Big Sur Food and Wine Festival a few days ago, plus the pastry chef direction of The Penny Ice Creamery.
Santa Cruz Weekly named Yarr “Best Pastry Chef of Santa Cruz” in 2010. She has been serving as pastry chef at The Glass Jar since departing as Head Chef of Mint in Scotts Valley earlier this year. A graduate of Portland, Oregon-based Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, Yarr’s goal at Assembly is to continue building a sense of community utilizing elements including passion and attention to detail.
“I will strive to create a menu that tells the story of Santa Cruz and Central California,” says Yarr. “Ultimately, we are here to nourish ourselves and our community.”
Yarr will be working with Assembly’s Sous Chef Trent Lindgren, who has been directing the kitchen at Assembly since previous Executive Chef Carlo Espinas returned to San Francisco earlier this year.
Davis and Baker are thrilled to welcome Yarr to this new role. “With Jessica’s help we are trying to stand on the shoulders of giants,” says Davis. “Theo’s, Gabriella Cafe, Jessica has worked integrally at the well-loved restaurants that are foundational to the best of Santa Cruz dining.”
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