Reflections on Gratitude and Abundance…

Happiest Thanksgiving to all of you! I am honored and so very grateful for my seven plus years as the trusted chef for Standards of Excellence Appliances and my “a la carte” culinary adventures with Macy’s, Fresh Starts Cooking School, Sears and more. I truly love cooking and kitchens deep down in my soul. It is fantastic to learn more and more about food and cooking technology and meet remarkable, inspiring chefs, artisans and of course work side by side with such excellent people. I thank you all…

Looking back, I have cooked, tasted and experienced a world of flavors and I would love to recommend some of my favorites as we all look for gift ideas in the next few months.

Book wise: I loved working with the culinary “king of kings”, Chef Thomas Keller as he taught from his latest book “Ad Hoc at Home” this spring at the Pebble Beach Food and Wine event. This book captures the down to earth spirit and cooking of his most casual, yet highly revered restaurant.

Food wise: We loved working with We Olive this summer at Standards of Excellence in Huntington Beach. Visit or go on line to “We Olive” a small franchise that features top notch California olive oils, vinegars and exciting condiments such as their assorted flavored salts. The stores are exciting experiences in themselves, full of tasting, learning and great cooking advice. The one in San Francisco is right next to Marina Meats, the fabulous butcher shop by Dave the Butcher featured in one of my previous posts. Stop by and meet Dave, a growing national culinary celebrity.

Cheese, wow, try logging on to or visiting Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes, California or the Ferry Plaza in San Francisco. They sell or ship gorgeous gift sets. Do not miss the celebrated Point Reyes Blue Cheese and magnificent Humboldt Fog goat cheese with it’s distinctive line of vegetable ash and creamy brie-like edge surrounding a classic tangy goat cheese.

Chocolate, mmm, try hand crafted truffles by my friends at Homeward Bound of Marin. Halo Truffles and Halo HomeMades offer the chance to indulge your appetite while supporting Homeward Bound of Marin in its mission to end homelessness. This is my local charity of choice and I love the powerful work that they do.

Be sure and buy local or at least buy something made with care, such as these items. Treat yourself to a shopping trip in an amazing place like Point Reyes or your local farmer’s market.



And if you can, give the best gift of all: a new appliance from Standards of Excellence!