Growing up in the Bay Area, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay was one of most beautiful things I’d ever seen. Situated right along the ocean, it’s a gleaming denizen of the coastline.
Fast forward to today, and I finally had the opportunity to experience the hotel in full to participate in their Global Cuisine Series. Launched last month, the series features famous chefs teaching cooking classes in the actual kitchen of the hotel. First off from the series: Masterchef Claudia Sandoval.
Chef Claudia’s story is stunning. She auditioned for Masterchef when she was a single mom, later crowdfunding enough money through a GoFundMe campaign (sound familiar?) to be able to go on the show while assuring that her daughter was taken care of. And then she won!
Taking a class with her was eye-opening, interesting, and fun AF. She’s got a presence in the kitchen that is full of talent and approachability, making me feel like I want to impress her and get drinks with her at the same time. During our class, we learned how to make braised pork cheek tostadas, which I obviously had to create a GIF of to show you each layer of deliciousness.
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The rest of our stay at the Ritz was also lovely. From the incredible dinner at their restaurant, Navio, to the amazing customer service, it was a weekend to remember and one that is available for anyone who wants a quick weekend getaway. Check out the full list of chefs in the Global Cuisine Series below!
June 10-11 / Telmo Faria of Uma Casa, named one of “The Best New Restaurants to Try Now” by San Francisco Magazine
July 22-23 / Charles Phan of James Beard award-winning The Slanted Door
August 26-27 / Charles Olalia of RiceBar, a pioneer of innovative Filipino cuisine
September 23-24 / Evan and Sarah Rich of Rich Table, featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s “3 Hours In San Francisco”
October 28-29 / Chef Manish Tyagi of August 1 Five, San Francisco’s hottest new Indian restaurant
November 18-19 / Gerald Hirigoyen of Piperade, James Beard nominee and Maître Cuisinier de France
December 16-17 / William Werner of Craftsman and Wolves, James Beard finalist for “Outstanding Baker”
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